University of Cyprus professor recognized among influential scientists worldwide

In a significant achievement for academic excellence, Professor Despo Fatta-Kassinou from the University of Cyprus has secured a spot on the list of the most influential scientists globally for 2022.

The University of Cyprus, in an official announcement, disclosed that two esteemed academics from Cyprus, representing the University of Cyprus and the University of Nicosia, earned spots on the Highly Cited Researchers 2023 list. This prestigious list comprises 6,849 researchers from 67 countries, highlighting outstanding contributions to their respective fields.

Dr. Despo Fatta-Kassinou, a distinguished figure in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, features on the Highly Cited Researchers 2023 list for the sixth consecutive year. She joins an elite group of 137 scientists worldwide in the category of "Environment and Ecology."

The compilation reveals a global distribution of influential researchers, with the United States leading the pack with 2,669 representatives (37.5% of the total), followed by China with 1,275 researchers (17.9%). The United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, France, Hong Kong, and Italy round out the list.

David Pendlebury, Head of Research Analysis at the Institute for Scientific Information at Clarivate, emphasized the significance of the Highly Cited Researchers list. He stated, "The Highly Cited Researchers list identifies and honors outstanding researchers whose significant and broad influence in their fields translates into the impact they have on the research community with innovations that make the world a healthier, more sustainable and safer place."

Dr. Fatta-Kassinou's remarkable scientific contributions extend beyond this recognition, as she has received multiple awards for her outstanding research activity. Recognitions include the Research Award from the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation and the SETAC Europe-Noack Laboratorien Outstanding Science Career Award.

Her extensive research focuses on advanced water and municipal wastewater treatment processes, aiming to ensure safe disposal and reuse. Dr. Fatta-Kassinou's work explores the behavior of emerging contaminants, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria, genes, and transgenic resistance transporters during treatment and disinfection processes.

With a track record of coordinating numerous national and European research projects, totaling over €14.1 million, Dr. Fatta-Kassinou has left an indelible mark on her field. Her commitment is reflected in more than 188 publications in scientific journals, numerous international lectures, and representation of Cyprus in various committees abroad.