Expert panel: Rafael Lucena (University of Córdoba)

General interest

Rafa expert panel pageRafael Lucena is associate professor of Analytical Chemistry at the University of Córdoba (Spain) where he teaches Chemistry, Biochemistry and Environmental Sciences. Lucena also teaches on the Erasmus Mundus Masters in Forensic Science. His main research interest is focused on the development of new microextraction techniques aimed to improve sample treatment. Moreover, he is interested in the use of novel materials (e.g., ionic liquid and nanoparticles) in this context. Currently, he is working on the development of chemical (MIPs) and biorecognition (aptamers) extraction phases. He has co-authored 67 scientific articles and 3 book chapters.

Short interview

1. What are your main areas of interest within bioanalysis?

Sample treatment and the use of biorecognition molecules.

2. Describe your current role in under 20 words.

My current role involves the supervision of 5 PhD thesis. I also participate in other scientific activities, for example I am a peer reviewer for various journals.

3. How many years of experience do you have in the bioanalytical field?

I have 10 years of experience in analytical chemistry and I have been working on aspects related to bioanalysis for the last 5 years.

4. What was the subject of your college major/undergraduate degree?

My PhD Thesis was focused on the development of autoanalyzers which combined extraction and detection of the target analytes. In addition I worked on the development of mid-IR sensors.

5. How many organizations have you worked at?

I have worked mainly in the University of Córdoba (Spain). However, I have also been working (research stage) at the Technical University of Vienna (Austria) and the Central University of Vienna.

6. How many papers have you published in total?

54.

7. What social media tools do you use?

Twitter.

8. Coffee or tea? How many cups a day?

Coffee. At least three cups per day

9. Make mine a…(favorite drink) 

Coke.

10. If I weren’t a bioanalyst I would be…(alternative career)

A Mathematician

11. You’d be surprised to know that…

I am passionate about soccer (supporter of Real Madrid) and literature.