YCN Representative - Brazil

Maria Eduarda Xavier da Silva

YCN representative for Brazil

PhD student of Materials Science and Engineering at Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Brazil

mxavier.eduardaa@gmail.com 

I am currently a PhD student of Materials Science and Engineering at Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Brazil, in cotutelle degree with Friedrich Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Germany, with a strong focus on bioceramics and bioactive materials for biomedical applications. I also hold a B. Sc. and a M. Sc. degree in Materials Engineering from the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Brazil, in Materials Science and Engineering, and throughout my academic path I have developed solid experience in bioactive glasses, natural polymers, and ceramic processing, including tape casting and additive manufacturing.

My current research is centered on the development of bioactive glass–based scaffolds for tissue engineering, with particular interest in mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (MBGNs), hydrogels, phytotherapeutic agents for drug delivery systems, and their interaction with biological systems. I am especially motivated by interdisciplinary research that bridges ceramics, biology, and engineering, and by approaches that translate fundamental materials science into real biomedical solutions.

During my academic journey, I have had the opportunity to engage with international research environments and scientific communities at conferences, where I experienced firsthand how valuable networking and collaboration are for early-career researchers. In this context, I had my first contact with the Young Ceramists Network (YCN), which not only supports scientific development but also fosters meaningful connections in an open and welcoming atmosphere.

Being part of YCN represents, for me, an opportunity to contribute actively to the ceramics community, to exchange experiences with researchers from diverse backgrounds, and to help strengthen connections among young ceramists. I am enthusiastic about supporting YCN activities and encouraging other early-career researchers to take advantage of this inspiring network.

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