As we step into 2025, it’s time to reflect on an eventful and inspiring year for the TRANSLATE project. In 2024, our researchers and collaborators actively participated in numerous conferences, seminars, and workshops, sharing project research insights and engaging with the global scientific community. Here’s a look back at the highlights from our year in conferences:
March: A strong start to the year
On 20 March, Dr. Ailbe Ó Manacháin from University College Cork (UCC) presented “Pathways of Water, Heat and Light to Novel Renewable Energy Sources” to a delegation of 30 students from Minzu University of China. His talk introduced the innovative research in TRANSLATE and FreeHydroCells, sparking curiosity and discussions about renewable energy advancements.
Dr. Ailbe Ó Manacháin presenting to the delegation from the Minzu University of China
Later that month, on 26 March, UL PhD student Ilga Lauma Leimane presented her research on obtaining nanoporous anodic alumina membranes at the 82nd International Scientific Conference of the University of Latvia (UL), showcasing advancements in anodisation processes.
April: Expanding knowledge and recognition
On 12 April, the Mathematics Seminar at the New Jersey Institute of Technology hosted Prof. Steffen Hardt from TU Darmstadt for an online session where he shared TRANSLATE’s research outcomes.
From 14-17 April, UL PhD student Inara Nestrova also participated in the 8th Baltic Electrochemistry Conference: Finding New Inspiration 2 (BEChem 2024) with a poster on Na2FeP2O7 cathode materials for aqueous sodium-ion batteries. Her contribution earned her the Best Student Poster Award.
Inara Nestrova displaying her poster at BEChem2024
June: Electrochemistry in the spotlight
Between 9-12 June, Inara Nestrova once again presented her poster on the electrochemical performance of Na2FeP2O7 at the 37th Topical Meeting of the International Society of Electrochemistry. She found the experience “very inspiring”, gaining exposure to the latest developments in lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, as well as hydrogen technologies. The conference provided an excellent opportunity to explore new ideas and engage in thought-provoking discussions with experts in the field.
August: Strengthening research networks
At the UCC School of Chemistry Postgraduate Research Day on 20 August, UCC PhD students Rupa Ranjani Palanisamy and Anjali Ashokan showcased their work through 12-minute presentations each. Rupa discussed electrode engineering for supercapacitors and thermal energy conversion, while Anjali highlighted nanowood’s potential for sustainable heat-to-electricity conversion. The event proved valuable in refining their communication skills and building connections with fellow researchers in their field.
Group of students at UCC School of Chemistry Postgraduate Research Day with Anjali Ashokan (Front row 2nd from left) and Rupa Ranjani Palanisamy (Front row 3rd from left)
September: A month of high-impact engagement
September was a landmark month, kicking off with a Consortium Management Session on 5 September, where Principal Investigator Prof. Justin Holmes and former project manager Rebecca Buckley provided crucial training on research collaboration strategies.
Related read: Expert tips on building research consortium | Expert tips on managing a research consortium
From 8-13 September, Dr. Irina Oliseveca and Ilga Lauma Leimane (UL) represented TRANSLATE at the IEEE 14th International Conference on Nanomaterials: Applications & Properties (NAP). Irina showcased her research with a poster presentation on ion transport in aqueous electrolytes confined in anodic alumina (AAO) nanochannels. Ilga also presented her work on the thermoelectric properties of aqueous electrolytes in anodic alumina nanochannels, contributing to discussions on cutting-edge advancements in energy materials. Irina emphasised how inspiring it was to engage with leading researchers in nanotechnology, energy, and functional materials. The conference offered a valuable platform to showcase TRANSLATE’s work and gather fresh ideas to propel the project forward.
(Left) Ilga Lauma Leimane and (right) Dr Irina Oliseveca displaying their posters at IEEE NAP 2024
At the E-MRS Fall Meeting and Exhibit (16-19 September), Rupa Ranjani Palanisamy won the Best Poster Award for her work on redox electrodes for energy storage. Anjali’s talk on surface optimisation of cellulose membranes was well received, and both researchers had the chance to meet Prof. Yury Gogotsi, a pioneer in MXene materials.
Anjali Ashokan (left) and Rupa Ranjani Palanisamy (right) with Prof. Yury Gogotsi (centre)
Dr Ievgen Nedygailov and Dr Kafil M. Razeeb from UCC attended the Industrial Workshop on “Re-structuring of EU value chain on thermoelectrics” by the START Project on 26 September. This workshop provided valuable insights into industrial advancements in thermoelectrics.
On 27 September, TRANSLATE team in the University of Latvia participated in the European Researchers’ Night 2024, engaging the public with hands-on demonstrations on heat-to-electricity conversion using electrolyte-infiltrated nanochannels. The team was particularly excited to see both adults and children interact with their research, turning the warmth of their hands into electrical energy. The event fostered curiosity among visitors of all ages and helped bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding.
TRANSLATE team exhibiting the project at the University of Latvia during the European Researchers’ Night
October & November: Innovation in unique settings
Anjali Ashokan and Dr Ievgen Nedrygailov took part in NXTGENWOOD’s Thesis in Trees event on 18 October, delivering a three-minute thesis competition talk outdoors in the Botanic Gardens, aptly titled “Wood You Believe? Turning Waste Heat to Electricity.” Presenting in a non-traditional setting to a public audience was a refreshing challenge that encouraged them to convey their research in an accessible and engaging way.
Anjali Ashokan (centre) explaining TRANSLATE’s research to the public alongside Dr Ievgen Nedrygailov (extreme left)
From 24-26 November, Prof. Steffen Hardt and Dr Rajkumar Sarma (TU Darmstadt) represented TRANSLATE at the 77th APS Fluid Dynamics Meeting, where Rajkumar delivered a talk on strong thermoelectric responses confined electrolytes with thermally activated charge carrier generation.
Dr Rajkumar Sarma delivering his presentation at 77th APS Fluid Dynamics Meeting
December: Closing the year with forward-thinking research
To wrap up the year, Dr Ievgen Nedrygailov delivered a talk on 18 December as part of the NXTGENWOOD Lunchtime Webinar Series, discussing how wood can be used to generate green electricity from waste heat. The session highlighted the potential of nature-based solutions in energy conversion and encouraged further exploration in sustainable materials research.
Looking ahead to 2025
Reflecting on 2024, TRANSLATE has made significant strides in advancing a new nanofluidic platform technology to effectively convert waste heat to electricity. We fostered collaboration and engaged with both scientific communities and the public. As we enter the final year of TRANSLATE, we look forward to building on these achievements, driving innovation, and continuing our mission to develop novel sustainable technologies.
