ICCRAM – University of Burgos
(UBU)
ICCRAM – University of Burgos
ICCRAM (International Research Centre in Critical Raw Materials for Advanced Industrial Technologies) is a competence centre of the University of Burgos that addresses five main lines of research through three research groups: ICCRAM - Environment, Sustainability and Toxicology (ICCRAM-EST) Group; Material design and modelling Group; and Electrochemical Processes and Energy Storage Group.
Main activities and roles in SUNRISE
UBU will be involved in different tasks of WP2, WP3 and WP5.
Specifically, in WP2, UBU will provide support in the definition of the methodological basis for assessing EHS impacts in the 3 tiers of the IIAF, and will participate in the adaptation of in vitro and in silico tools to AdMa. Moreover, UBU will contribute in the development of IATA to optimise EHS data generation for applying the IIAF. In WP3, UBU will participate in the environmental, social and economic sustainability assessment methodological building blocks for each of the 3 tiers of the IIAF. Finally, in WP5, UBU will participate in the generation of data in the case studies (in silico and in vitro studies, and sustainability assessment) to thoroughly test and validate the IIAF.
Meet the UBU team
Dr. Carlos Rumbo, Head of ICCRAM Toxicology Research Line, with a background in Biology and a PhD in Health Sciences specializing in Microbiology, coordinates the Toxicology Research Line at the University of Burgos in ICCRAM. His expertise lies in nosocomial pathogens, focusing on multidrug resistance, gene transfer, and virulence. He conducts research on the toxicity and biocompatibility of new materials and nanoparticles using human cell lines as models, alongside studying the antimicrobial activity of novel compounds. Dr. Rumbo has authored more than 30 articles in international journals and participated in more than 30 national and international research projects, including leadership roles.
Dr. Santiago Aparicio, a Ph.D. graduate in Chemistry from the University of Burgos and a Tenured Professor at the Department of Chemistry, excels as a Fulbright Scholar at Texas A&M University. As Head of ICCRAM Material design and modelling Group and with expertise in fluid thermodynamics, multiscale modeling, and silicon-based design of new materials, his research lines have paved the way for the development of innovative materials applicable in biomedicine, energy, and the environment. Throughout his career, Dr. Aparicio has authored over 200 articles in top international research journals within his field, earning recognition in Stanford University's ranking as one of the top 1% most influential scientists globally.
Dr. Rocío Barros is the head of the ICCRAM-EST (Environment Sustainability and Toxicology) group. She is a biologist with a PhD in Environmental Science, leader of the ICCRAM Biotechnology research line, from which she has worked on more than 20 European projects. Currently, she specializes in environmental remediation and projects aimed to innovate in biology research and improve pollutant removal methods. In addition, Dr. Barros serves as a Senior R&D Project Manager, specializing in strategy definition and European funding assessment.
Sonia Martel, as the Head of Sustainability Research Line, epitomizes dedication to advancing circular economy and sustainability research. With expertise as a senior R&D Project Manager, Sonia excels in formulating strategies and evaluating European funding opportunities to drive impactful initiatives forward. Her commitment to sustainability extends beyond theoretical research, as she actively seeks to implement innovative solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future.
Dr. Alfredo Bol, director and senior researcher in the Material Design and Modeling group, holds a Ph.D. in Physical Sciences, and contributes valuable insights and expertise to the advancement of innovative technologies and sustainable practices in relation to material design and modelling group. In addition, as ICCRAM’s director, Dr. Bol embodies institutional representation on behalf of the University's Rector, fostering strategic relations within the university community.
Dr. Alberto Gutiérrez Vega, a Ph.D. graduate in Chemistry from the University of Burgos and a distinguished researcher ''Beatriz Galindo Junior'' at the Department of Chemistry, is specialized in fluid thermodynamics, multiscale molecular modeling and in silico design of new materials tailored for applications in energy and the environment. His research has encompassed a wide range of applications such as gas capture, storage and separation; battery binder applications and novel electrolyte development; water purification and PFAS treatment.
Nuria Aguilar is a predoctoral researcher in computational chemistry at the Department of Chemistry (University of Burgos) within the Material Design and Modelling Group of ICCRAM. Her work is focused on multiscale molecular modelling for advanced materials and drives innovation in diverse fields such as nanotechnology and drug discovery.
Natalia Fernández, a postdoctoral researcher within the Toxicology research line at ICCRAM, specializes in studying the toxicity of nanoparticles and materials across various biological organisms. Her research also involves evaluating the antimicrobial properties of newly synthesized compounds. Through her work, Dr. Fernández addresess potential impacts of emerging materials and compounds on biological systems, enhancing our understanding of their safety and efficacy.
Jesús Ibáñez is a predoctoral researcher affiliated with the ICCRAM - Environment, Sustainability and Toxicology (ICCRAM-EST) Group, where he specializes in sustainability initiatives. His expertise lies in Life Cycle Cost (LCC), Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and Circular Economy practices. Beyond his research focus, Ibáñez also stands out as a financial technician for the projects, working on their management and development.
Julieta Díez is a predoctoral researcher affiliated with the Department of Economics and Business Management at the University of Burgos while also collaborating closely with the ICCRAM - Environment, Sustainability, and Toxicology (ICCRAM-EST) Group. Specializing in Social Life Cycle Assessment (SLCA) and Circular Economy practices, she actively contributes to European projects aimed at advancing sustainable and socially responsible practices.