REACTOR TEAM

Simone Seccareccia

I hold a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Politecnico di Milano, where I specialized in Energy and Environment with a strong focus on chemical reaction engineering and reactive flow modelling.

 

 

My research focuses on leveraging simulations to understand how complex materials like biomass break down at high temperatures. The aim is to design cleaner and more efficient processes that transform waste into valuable fuels and chemicals, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

 

 

I aim to develop simulation tools that improve waste conversion efficiency and understanding, supporting cleaner resource recovery and sustainable processes for society and the environment.

 

I’m excited to work with highly motivated researchers from different backgrounds, joining forces toward a common goal. I look forward to learning, growing as a scientist and as individual, and becoming an expert in sustainable thermochemical conversion processes.

 

I like babysitting and playing with children because they have lots of imagination.

Gholamreza Masoudi Rad

I hold a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from Petroleum University of Technology, Iran, graduating as the first-rank student. I then completed an M.Sc. at Sapienza University of Rome, Italy, specializing in CFD modeling for chemical processes and reactor design.

 

In my research I will be creating detailed computer models of waste gasification reactors. The goal is to safely turn complex waste, like municipal sludge, into clean energy and recover valuable secondary raw materials, such as phosphorus.  

 

My goal is to develop an advanced reactive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model capable of describing the fate of inorganics during the gasification of biogenic waste streams. This work is critical for achieving zero waste and maximizing the recovery of secondary raw materials, such thereby contributing to the enhancement of resource security. 

 

I look forward to leveraging the synergistic collaboration between cutting-edge scientific research at the academic institutions (Ljubljana and KU Leuven) and direct industrial implementation (Indaver). This endeavor, situated at the nexus of science and industry, is essential for proficiently mastering complex Reactive Computational Fluid Dynamics (R-CFD) modeling and ultimately advancing the circular economy paradigm. 

 

A fun fact about me is that I am a talented IKEA furniture assembler who tries to mount items without the user manual! 

Muhammad Hasnain Yousaf

I hold an Erasmus Mundus Joint master’s degree in chemical Innovation and Regulation, from University of Barcelona, Spain & University of Algarve, Portugal and University of Bologna, Italy. I did bachelor’s in chemical engineering from University of Punjab. My academic path emphasizes material characterization, process engineering, and innovative analytical techniques for environmental and industrial applications. 

 

My research focuses on converting different types of waste materials into valuable gases and products using high-temperature processes like pyrolysis and gasification. By studying temperature, pressure, and gas composition, I aim to make waste treatment more efficient, sustainable, and beneficial for resource recovery and environmental protection. 

 

I aim to develop efficient and sustainable methods for converting complex waste into valuable resources and clean energy. My research will generate reliable experimental data to optimize pyrolysis and gasification processes, contributing to circular economy goals, reducing environmental impact, and supporting the design of next-generation waste-to-resource technologies.  

 

I’m looking forward to conducting advanced experiments on pyrolysis and gasification processes, collaborating with experts at La Sapienza and Indaver, and applying my engineering skills to optimize waste-to-energy conversion. This PhD will allow me to bridge laboratory research with real industrial applications for a sustainable circular economy. 

 

I’m a big football fan and enjoy both playing and watching the game. I also love traveling to different countries and cities, meeting new people, and learning about their cultures, languages, and sharing ideas. It keeps me inspired and open to new perspectives and technologies. 

Hesham Qatan

I hold an Erasmus Mondus Joint Master’s degree in Sustainable Biomass and Bioproducts Engineering from Wroclaw university of science and technology, Poland, University of Castilla La-Mancha, Spain, and LUT university, Finland.  I completed my bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from university Putra Malaysia. I focus on biomass valorization, kinetic modelling, and sustainable process engineering. 

 

My research project aims to develop an advanced computer model that predicts how waste is combusted in an industrial reactor. My work will help in improving waste-to-energy processes, making them safer, cleaner, and more efficient for industries. 

 

I aim to develop a reliable and computationally efficient model that will help industries abate unsteady emissions, reduce equipment corrosion, and promote cleaner energy production, supporting the transition towards more sustainable circular economy. I hope to enhance my modeling skills and bridge research with industry to enable innovative and sustainable solutions. 

 

I am really excited to collaborate with leading researchers and industry partners across Europe, while learning valuable skills and applying them to real waste-to-energy challenges and contributing to developing sustainable industrial solutions.  

 

I’ve always loved teaching and sharing knowledge, likely inherited from my father, who’s a teacher. I’m also a bit of a tech enthusiast and enjoy finding smart tools that make life easier. When I’m not in the lab, you’ll likely find me playing table tennis or biking to unwind and recharge. 

Qi Li

I hold a master’s degree from North China Electric Power University in June 2025, where I specialized in hydrothermal vaporization and sustainable materials. In 2022, I earned my bachelor’s degree from Northeast Electric Power University, gaining systematic knowledge and practical skills in power plant operations. 

 

My research aims to assess and optimize the design of a semi-continuous HTL plant, refine operating conditions, and characterize products to ensure consistent and high-quality production.

 

Scientifically, I hope this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of reactor design and the production of high-quality products. I’m eager to collaborate with other talented researchers, as I believe such cooperation fosters meaningful global communication and the advancement of scientific knowledge.  

 

I’m really excited to build my skills and gain experiences that connects the lab research with real industrial application. 

 

I prefer doing yoga, going hiking, cycling, and traveling in my spare time. II look serious for no reason and you think Im upset, dont worry. I’m probably just spacing out because I have a natural serious expression!