Iqra Irfan is a Research Fellow at CIIAE with a PhD in Optical Engineering, specialising in nanomaterials for energy and optical applications. Her research focuses on the design and engineering of advanced hybrid nanostructures, combining 2D materials, metal nanoparticles, and metal oxides to enhance thermal, optical, and electrical performance. With strong expertise in synthesis and characterisation techniques, her work aims to address key challenges in energy systems, including thermal conductivity, material degradation, and long-term stability. At CIIAE, she contributes to the development of next-generation materials for sustainable energy storage and conversion technologies. Why did you choose to apply to the Talent4Iberia programme? I chose to apply to the Talent4Iberia programme because its research lines are closely aligned with my expertise and interests, particularly in sustainable energy and thermal energy storage systems. The programme offers a strong research environment with an emphasis on international collaboration and innovation, which makes it an ideal platform to apply and expand my knowledge in advanced materials and synthesis techniques. It also provides the opportunity to contribute to research that addresses real-world challenges, especially in the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems. What is innovative about your research? The innovative aspect of my research lies in the development of hybrid materials designed for thermal energy storage with improved long-term stability. One of the main challenges in this field is that many materials degrade or lose efficiency when exposed to high temperatures over time. My work focuses on designing composite and hybrid structures that can maintain their performance and extend the operational lifetime of energy systems. By combining different materials and tuning their properties at the nanoscale, I aim to create more robust and efficient solutions for energy storage applications, particularly in demanding conditions. What are you most passionate about your job? What I am most passionate about is creating new materials and understanding how their properties can be improved and applied in real-world scenarios. I enjoy the process of designing and synthesising materials, modifying their structure, and studying how they behave under different conditions. For me, research is not only about experimentation, but about discovering how materials can be engineered to solve practical problems. It is especially rewarding to know that this work can contribute to sustainable energy solutions and have a positive impact on society. Being able to translate scientific ideas into technologies that support cleaner energy systems is what motivates me the most. Why did you choose CIIAE and Extremadura as the next stage of your research career? One of the main reasons I chose CIIAE was the opportunity to work with my Supervisor, Kashif, whose expertise and approach to research strongly align with my interests. Our shared focus on materials design and applied energy solutions made this collaboration particularly attractive. CIIAE also offers a highly interdisciplinary environment, where different research areas are connected, allowing for the exchange of ideas and the development of innovative solutions. Extremadura is a region with growing potential in renewable energy and technological development, which makes it an ideal place to work on sustainable energy systems. Additionally, it offers a supportive environment for research and a good quality of life, making it an excellent place to continue developing my career.

Cristina Gutiérrez Muñoz is a Senior Researcher at CIIAE whose work focuses on the development of advanced adsorbent materials and environmentally driven chemical processes. With particular expertise in high-pressure and supercritical CO₂ technologies, her research contributes to carbon capture and utilisation strategies that support decarbonisation. Her work combines the design of porous materials with their functionalisation and evaluation under realistic operating conditions, aiming to maximise CO₂ adsorption capacity, selectivity, and long-term stability. Beyond capture, she also explores the valorisation of CO₂ as a resource, including its integration into Power-to-X pathways. As a Supervisor within the Talent4Iberia programme, she supports the training and career development of Research Fellow Kiara Montiel while continuing to expand her own scientific line. Why did you choose to become a Supervisor for the Talent4Iberia programme? I chose to become a Supervisor because I see it as a valuable opportunity both for training and for expanding my own research line. Programmes like Talent4Iberia create an environment where collaboration is not only encouraged but structurally supported. This allows for the exchange of knowledge, methodologies, and perspectives that enrich the research process. For me, supervision is not a one-directional task. It is a two-way learning experience in which both the Supervisor and the Research Fellow grow scientifically. Working with researchers from different backgrounds helps to open new research paths, strengthen existing ones, and continuously evolve as a scientist. What would you say is the greatest strength of CIIAE in the field of Energy Storage? And of your Research Fellow? The main strength of CIIAE lies in its people. The centre brings together a highly qualified and diverse team, where interdisciplinarity is a defining feature. Researchers from different scientific fields collaborate closely, which enables us to approach complex challenges from multiple perspectives. This environment not only enhances the quality of research but also fosters creativity and innovation. Regarding my Research Fellow, Kiara stands out for her strong scientific profile and well-developed scientific judgement. She combines solid technical knowledge with the ability to critically analyse problems and propose meaningful solutions. Her capacity to connect theory with application, together with her motivation and analytical mindset, makes her a valuable asset to our research line and to the centre as a whole. Why did you choose CIIAE and Extremadura as the next stage of your research career? Choosing CIIAE and Extremadura was both a professional and personal decision. On one hand, it represented an excellent opportunity to continue developing my research line independently within a growing and dynamic centre. On the other hand, there is also a strong personal connection. Returning to Extremadura allowed me to reconnect with a place that is meaningful to me, while contributing to its scientific development. At the same time, this step enabled me to refocus on research itself—on what we could call “pure research”—within an environment that supports scientific curiosity, long-term vision, and impactful innovation.

The Selection and Recruitment Process of the Talent4Iberia programme has been successfully completed, marking a key milestone in the implementation of this international talent attraction programme in Extremadura. Following a highly competitive and rigorous evaluation process, a total of eight researchers have been recruited in full compliance with the eligibility criteria and requirements established under the programme. The recruited researchers will contribute to strategic research areas aligned with regional and European priorities. In particular, four researchers selected the Thermal Energy Storage research line, and four researchers selected the Hydrogen and Power-to-X research line, both of which are key domains for advancing sustainable energy systems and supporting the green transition. The successful completion of this process highlights the programme’s strong commitment to excellence, transparency, and international openness, reinforcing Extremadura’s capacity to attract high-level scientific talent and to foster cutting-edge research and innovation. The full list of researchers to participate in the Selection and Recruitment Process and their evaluation scores is available in Annex I of this news item.

Kiara Montiel is a Research Fellow at CIIAE specialising in the design and development of advanced nanoporous materials for energy and environmental applications. With a PhD in Chemistry and an interdisciplinary background spanning materials science and surface chemistry, her research focuses on the synthesis of nanostructured materials for hydrogen storage and carbon dioxide capture. Her work explores innovative approaches such as mechanochemistry and the valorisation of agro-industrial residues to develop sustainable materials with tailored properties. By combining fundamental science with applied research, she contributes to advancing technologies that support decarbonisation and energy transition. As part of the Talent4Iberia programme, she brings an international perspective and a strong commitment to addressing real-world challenges through science. Why did you choose to apply to the Talent4Iberia programme? I decided to apply to the Talent4Iberia programme because it offers an excellent match with my research profile and interests, particularly in the field of energy storage and sustainable materials. One of the most attractive aspects of the programme is its strong emphasis on international mobility and collaboration. The opportunity to work in a different research environment and engage with new institutions, including secondments, is very valuable for professional and scientific growth. For me, it represents a chance to expand my expertise, connect with leading researchers, and contribute to impactful projects aligned with current energy challenges. What is innovative about your research? The innovative aspect of my research lies in the development of advanced nanoporous materials for the safe storage of hydrogen and the capture of carbon dioxide. These materials can adsorb gases under controlled conditions, offering efficient solutions for key challenges in the energy transition. In particular, hydrogen storage is essential for the development of clean mobility systems, while CO₂ capture plays a crucial role in reducing emissions. Another important aspect of my work is the use of sustainable synthesis strategies, such as the valorisation of agro-industrial residues. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also supports the circular economy and strengthens connections with industrial value chains. By integrating material design, sustainability, and application, my research aims to contribute to more efficient and environmentally responsible energy systems. What are you most passionate about your job? What I am most passionate about is the process of transforming an idea into something real. As a researcher, you start by identifying a problem in society and asking yourself how you can contribute to solving it. From that initial idea, you explore different approaches, design experiments, and gradually build a possible solution. Seeing how those ideas take shape in the laboratory and evolve into tangible results is incredibly rewarding. It is also a career that constantly challenges you to learn and grow, both scientifically and personally. For me, research is not only about generating knowledge, but about using that knowledge to address real-world problems and contribute to society in a meaningful way. Why did you choose CIIAE and Extremadura as the next stage of your research career? I was particularly interested in joining CIIAE because it is a growing research centre with a clear focus on energy storage and sustainable technologies, which aligns perfectly with my academic background. Extremadura is a region with significant potential in renewable energy and is currently undergoing important development in this sector. This creates opportunities not only for scientific growth but also for contributing to real technological progress. Another key factor is the strong connection between the centre and industry, as well as its links with other European institutions. This provides an environment where research can be both collaborative and impactful. Overall, I saw CIIAE and Extremadura as a place where I could continue developing my career while contributing to innovative solutions in energy and sustainability.

Liliana Analía Díaz is a Senior Researcher at CIIAE with more than 15 years of experience in electrochemical energy conversion and advanced membrane materials. Her work focuses on hydrogen production, fuel cells, and electrochemical systems, combining materials science, electrochemistry, and applied engineering to advance green hydrogen technologies. She holds a PhD in Science and Technology (Chemistry) from the National University of San Martín (Argentina) and has led numerous R&D projects in both Argentina and Spain. Her research has contributed to the development of polymer membranes, electrocatalysts, and sustainable strategies for hydrogen production, including circular approaches for electrochemical systems. She has authored multiple scientific publications and holds a patent related to proton-exchange membrane preparation. At CIIAE, she leads research activities on low-temperature electrolysis and fuel cells, with a particular focus on Anion Exchange Membrane Electrolysis. As a Supervisor within the Talent4Iberia programme, she supports the training and career development of Research Fellow Melisa Julieta Gómez. Why did you choose to become a Supervisor for the Talent4Iberia programme? Talent4Iberia is closely aligned with the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, which are widely recognised for their prestige and high standards. Being part of such a programme is both an honour and a responsibility. The selection process is highly competitive, ensuring that the researchers involved have strong profiles and significant potential. In this context, becoming a Supervisor is not only a recognition of experience, but also an opportunity to work with talented researchers who have successfully gone through this rigorous evaluation. For me, supervising within this programme is particularly meaningful because it is directly connected to my field of expertise—energy storage and hydrogen technologies—and allows me to contribute to the development of highly qualified researchers while strengthening my own research environment. What would you say is the greatest strength of CIIAE in the field of Energy Storage? And of your Research Fellow? One of CIIAE’s main strengths is its ability to bridge the gap between fundamental research and industrial application. As a relatively new centre, it offers the opportunity to build research lines from the ground up while integrating all stages of technological development. From laboratory-scale research to prototyping and pilot plant validation, CIIAE provides a complete pathway that allows researchers to follow the evolution of a technology from initial concept to potential industrial implementation. This connection with industry is particularly important in fields such as hydrogen production, where scaling up is essential. In my area, low-temperature electrolysis is especially relevant, as it represents one of the most commercially viable technologies today. However, there are still many challenges to address, and CIIAE’s strategic positioning allows us to contribute directly to this industrial development. Regarding my Research Fellow, Melisa brings a strong and well-rounded scientific background. She has extensive experience working with materials, both at the level of fundamental research and in larger-scale prototypes. This ability to understand and navigate the entire development chain—from basic science to applied technology—is one of her greatest strengths. In addition, her resilience and determination stand out. She is capable of overcoming challenges and adapting to complex research environments, which is essential in ambitious and evolving fields such as hydrogen technologies. Why did you choose CIIAE and Extremadura as the next stage of your research career? Extremadura represents a strategic location within the emerging European hydrogen landscape, particularly in relation to the development of the hydrogen corridor across the Iberian Peninsula. The region has strong potential for growth in hydrogen production, distribution, and application, especially in mobility and industrial uses. At the same time, it is a place where there is still significant room for development, which creates opportunities to contribute meaningfully. For me, choosing CIIAE and Extremadura was about being part of that growth—contributing to both regional and European progress in hydrogen technologies. It is an opportunity to add value, to participate in the development of a key sector, and to help shape the future of sustainable energy systems.

Melisa Julieta Gómez is a Research Fellow at CIIAE specialising in electrochemistry applied to green hydrogen production. With a PhD in Chemical Sciences and a background in Chemical Engineering, her research focuses on improving the performance and durability of electrolysis systems. Her work centres on the development of advanced membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) for anion exchange membrane water electrolysers (AEMWE), with a particular emphasis on enhancing ionic conductivity, catalyst interactions, and system stability. By combining advanced electrochemical characterisation techniques with applied engineering, she contributes to the development of more efficient and economically viable hydrogen technologies. Within the Talent4Iberia programme, she works at the intersection of fundamental science and technological innovation to support the transition towards sustainable energy systems. Why did you choose to apply to the Talent4Iberia programme? I chose to apply to the Talent4Iberia programme because its research lines are strongly aligned with my background and expertise in electrochemistry and hydrogen technologies. For researchers in chemistry and chemical engineering, these topics are complex and require time and dedicated research to fully understand and develop. A programme like Talent4Iberia provides the opportunity to deepen that knowledge while working in an environment that supports innovation and scientific development. It also opens the door to contributing to technological advancements that can have a real and positive impact on the future of energy. What is innovative about your research? The innovative aspect of my research lies in improving the performance of electrolysis systems by optimising the interaction between their key components, such as catalysts, membranes, and ionomers. In particular, I focus on enhancing ionic conductivity and understanding the electrochemical mechanisms that affect system efficiency and degradation. This includes studying phenomena such as bubble dynamics and their impact on resistance within the system. By combining advanced characterisation techniques with applied research, my work aims to provide a deeper understanding of how these systems operate and how they can be improved for next-generation hydrogen production technologies. What are you most passionate about your job? What I am most passionate about is the possibility of working on something that has a meaningful impact on society. Earlier in my career, I worked in areas related to the oil industry, and I felt a conflict between my work and my personal values. Transitioning to hydrogen research allowed me to focus on technologies that contribute to a more sustainable future. Now, I feel that my work is aligned with my values and that I am contributing to something positive—not only for society as a whole, but also for future generations. At the same time, research offers a constant intellectual challenge, where every day brings new questions, new problems, and new opportunities to innovate. Why did you choose CIIAE and Extremadura as the next stage of your research career? One of the main reasons I chose CIIAE was the opportunity to work with my Supervisor, Liliana Díaz. I was already familiar with her work and knew that her expertise in electrolysis technologies aligned perfectly with my research interests. In addition, CIIAE offers the infrastructure and equipment necessary to carry out advanced research in this field, which is not always easy to find. Extremadura was also an important factor in my decision. It is a region with strong potential in renewable energy, particularly for green hydrogen production, thanks to its natural resources and growing technological ecosystem. On a personal level, it is also a place that offers a high quality of life, with an environment that is well suited for balancing professional and family life. Altogether, it represents an ideal setting to grow both as a researcher and as a person.

Claudia Gómez Aguirre, Senior Researcher at CIIAE, plays a key role in advancing cutting-edge solutions in thermal energy storage and management. As a Supervisor within the Talent4Iberia programme, she contributes not only her scientific expertise but also her strong commitment to fostering international research talent. Her work focuses on the development of advanced materials for thermal energy storage, particularly solid–solid phase change materials (S2S-PCMs). Through her research, she supports the design of innovative thermal management strategies aimed at improving the efficiency, reliability, and lifespan of electronic devices and renewable energy systems. She is also the Principal Investigator and coordinator of the European project SPARK-e, which explores novel ways to dissipate and convert heat in electronic systems. As a Supervisor within the Talent4Iberia programme, she supports the training and career development of Research Fellow Ariel Nonato. Why did you choose to become a Supervisor for the Talent4Iberia programme? For me, it was a very natural decision. I previously held a Marie Skłodowska-Curie postdoctoral fellowship, so I have experienced first-hand how valuable international mobility and collaboration can be for a researcher’s career. Programmes like Talent4Iberia bring together highly talented individuals with strong academic backgrounds and innovative ideas. Being part of this initiative is a unique opportunity to contribute to that environment, support emerging researchers, and foster the kind of internationalisation that is essential in today’s scientific landscape. What would you say is the greatest strength of CIIAE in the field of Energy Storage? And of your Research Fellow? One of CIIAE’s main strengths is that it is a relatively new research centre equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure. We have access to advanced, highly specialised equipment for the characterisation and study of energy storage systems, which provides an excellent foundation for cutting-edge research. Equally important is the human capital. The centre brings together researchers from diverse backgrounds—experimental scientists, simulation experts, and even specialists in regulatory aspects. This multidisciplinary environment allows us to approach complex problems from multiple perspectives and collaborate effectively, which is a major advantage. Regarding my Research Fellow, Ariel brings an outstanding and highly complementary profile. He is an experimental physicist, while my background is in chemistry, and we both work in solid-state science. This combination significantly strengthens our research line. He also has extensive expertise in advanced characterisation techniques, particularly Raman spectroscopy, which is essential for studying solid–solid phase transitions in our materials. His experience, including his academic work in Brazil, adds considerable value to our team and enhances our research capabilities. Why did you choose CIIAE and Extremadura as the next stage of your research career? For me, this was a unique opportunity to establish and lead my own research line. After my Marie Skłodowska-Curie postdoctoral experience, I was ready to take that next step, and CIIAE provided the ideal environment to do so. Here, I have been able to build and coordinate my own team, supervise researchers at different career stages, and contribute to multiple projects, including European initiatives. This level of responsibility and independence is essential for career development, and CIIAE offered exactly the right conditions to make it possible.

of materials science and renewable energy technologies. With a PhD in Physics from the Federal University of Maranhão and international research experience in Spain and large-scale facilities, his work focuses on the development and characterisation of advanced functional materials. His research explores solid-to-solid phase change materials (SS-PCMs), with a particular emphasis on hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites (HOIPs), aiming to improve thermal regulation in photovoltaic (PV) systems. By addressing temperature-related efficiency losses in solar panels, his work contributes to more robust and sustainable energy solutions. Within the Talent4Iberia programme, he develops innovative strategies that connect material properties with real-world energy applications and is supervised by Senior Researcher Claudia Gómez Aguirre Why did you choose to apply to the Talent4Iberia programme? I chose to apply to the Talent4Iberia programme because it represents an exceptional opportunity to develop high-level research within an international and collaborative environment. The programme is closely aligned with the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, which are widely recognised for their prestige and excellence. Its mission to attract global talent and foster impactful research strongly matches my own professional goals. For me, it is an opportunity not only to advance my career, but also to contribute to innovative and meaningful scientific projects within a dynamic research ecosystem. What is innovative about your research? The most innovative aspect of my research lies in the development and application of solid-to-solid phase change materials for integration into photovoltaic systems. These materials enable passive thermal regulation by reducing the operating temperature of solar panels, which helps to improve their efficiency and extend their lifespan. In particular, I focus on hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites as a new and largely unexplored class of materials for this purpose. This approach opens new possibilities for combining energy generation and thermal management within a single system. In addition, my work includes the validation of these materials through collaborations with international partners, aiming to bring these solutions closer to real-world applications. What are you most passionate about in your job? What I find most rewarding about my work is the intellectual challenge and the opportunity to discover new knowledge. Research allows me to explore complex problems, develop new ideas, and contribute to advancing science. At the same time, I am particularly motivated by the possibility of translating this knowledge into solutions that can have a real impact. Improving energy technologies and contributing to a more sustainable society is a strong driving force for me. Knowing that my work can help make energy systems more efficient and environmentally friendly gives a deeper meaning to what I do. Why did you choose CIIAE and Extremadura as the next stage of your research career? CIIAE is a highly strategic centre for the development of energy storage and renewable energy technologies. It offers a strong research environment with a clear focus on innovation and applied science. Extremadura, in particular, provides very favourable conditions for the development of photovoltaic energy, making it an ideal location for my research. The region’s potential in renewable energy, combined with its growing technological ecosystem, creates a unique opportunity for impactful work. Another key factor is the interdisciplinary nature of CIIAE, where researchers from different fields collaborate closely. This environment allows me to expand my expertise and approach problems from multiple perspectives. In addition, the strong connection between the centre and industry is essential for developing practical solutions and building a solid professional career. For me, this combination of scientific excellence, collaboration, and real-world application made CIIAE and Extremadura the ideal next step in my career.

On 2 March 2026, the European Projects Office of the Extremadura System of Science, Technology and Innovation (OPE-SECTI), managed by FUNDECYT-PCTEX, organised the informative session “Open Science in Research Projects”, held at the Assembly Hall of the School of Engineering in Cáceres at the Universidad de Extremadura. The session was aimed at researchers, project coordinators, research staff and research support personnel, with the objective of providing a clear, up-to-date and practical overview of Open Science principles, as well as the current regulatory requirements at national and European level regarding open access and research data management. During the event, the key requirements for complying with Open Access policies in scientific publications were presented, together with best practices for the responsible and efficient management of research data. These aspects are increasingly relevant not only during the proposal preparation phase but also throughout the entire lifecycle of research projects. The session was delivered entirely in English by Laura Bonora, Open Science expert at FECYT, who shared her experience and practical guidance on implementing open science principles in research projects. The event brought together 50 participants (25 women and 25 men) and received very positive feedback from attendees, who highlighted the relevance and practical usefulness of the topics discussed. This activity, organised by FUNDECYT-PCTEX through OPE-SECTI in collaboration with the University of Extremadura, forms part of the training programme of the Talent4Iberia project, a Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND action under Horizon Europe, co-funded by the European Union and the Regional Government of Extremadura. The session contributes to strengthening the capacities of the research community in key areas for participation in European projects and for advancing more open, transparent and internationally aligned research practices.

The Official Administrative Resolution of the Talent4Iberia Programme has now been published. This Administrative Resolution, published in the Official Gazette of Extremadura #172, officially announces the list of 10 selected candidates and 10 selected substitutes, as well as the final score of all the applications presented to the Programme. The selected researchers will receive all the necessary documentation to formally accept the fellowship in the following days. These 10 fellowships amount to a total funding of €2,180,600 over a three-year employment period. They are co-funded 50% by the Horizon Europe Programme – MSCA-2022-COFUND-01 and the Regional Government of Extremadura, and are awarded through the signing of an employment contract for postdoctoral researchers. The resolution of the call, managed by the General Secretariat for Science, Technology and Innovation of the Regional Ministry of Education, Science and Vocational Training, has been published today in the Official Gazette of Extremadura (DOE). These fellowships were offered under Decree 43/2024, of 21 May 2024, which sets out the regulatory bases for the Talent4Iberia project (101128265). The programme is aimed at recruiting postdoctoral researchers to carry out R&I activities in the field of energy storage, within the framework of the Horizon Europe – Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA).