Triumph for Stralsund scientist: Award in Italy!

Triumph for Stralsund scientist: Award in Italy!

An outstanding achievement in the world of materials science recently occurred at the Symposium on Biodegradable Metals in Cetraro, Italy. The young scientist Agathi Dimakopoulou from Stralsund University was honored for her impressive presentation. The event held by 17th Symposium on Biodegradable Metals brought together experts to share new insights into the use of biodegradable metals in biomedical applications.

Shortly after completing her studies at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering in her hometown of Ioannina, Greece, Dimakopoulou had the chance to do an internship in Lund, Sweden, under the guidance of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Petra Maier to complete. She is now part of a DFG project that deals intensively with magnesium-based biomaterials.

Exchange and networking are the focus

The symposium, which took place from August 25th to 30th, 2025 at the Gran Hotel San Michele, stands out for its open discussion style. Instead of classic lectures, there was the opportunity for interactive discussions and sharing individual views. For this reason, the event attracts not only experienced researchers but also emerging talents like Dimakopoulou, who take the opportunity to network and exchange ideas.

Dimakopoulou's presentation on the mechanical properties of corroded magnesium alloys generated great interest and demonstrated the relevance of her research. “It is important that we understand the mechanisms of pitting corrosion, especially in relation to medical applications such as bone screws and stents,” said the scientist. This work is critical as more people face sports injuries and other medical needs.

Research and innovation are the focus

Research into magnesium-based biomaterials is not only being promoted at Stralsund University. The Institute for Metallic Biomaterials also regularly deals with developments in this area. Among other things, we are investigating how the service life of implants can be improved using innovative alloys made of titanium and magnesium. The aim is to increase the biocompatibility of implants and thus offer patients the best possible chance of healing.

The research also aims to add pharmaceutically active elements such as antimicrobial silver to magnesium-based materials, thereby promoting positive effects on regeneration. Such approaches are particularly promising because they must address the increasing challenges of increasingly active people who are often exposed to injuries in high-risk sports.

The importance of the exchange between young research talents and experienced scientists is also reflected in the activities that took place during the symposium. Daily afternoon sessions provided space for discussions about current challenges and developments in research. By participating in the symposium, Dimakopoulou was able to not only present her own work, but also benefit from the experiences of others.

Overall, the successes of young scientists like Agathi Dimakopoulou illustrate the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and international exchange. Their work has the potential not only to advance research, but also to significantly improve real-world applications in medicine. The possible uses of biodegradable metals in medical technology are the focus of research - and the future promises a lot of new things.