Georgia Argyropoulou, is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Chemical Engineering at the University of Patras. Her research focuses on atmospheric studies, with a particular emphasis on ultrafine particles—the smallest size range of airborne particulate matter. These atmospheric nanoparticles are closely linked to adverse human health effects, and emerging evidence suggests they may pose an even greater risk due to their ability to reach sensitive organs such as the brain.

As part of the final phase of her Ph.D. thesis, she will be conducting research at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena, CA. The primary objective of this work is to evaluate the impact of various—particularly numerous local anthropogenic—sources on the chemical composition, characteristics, and toxicity of ultrafine atmospheric particles in a densely urbanized environment. Her research aims to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of how the toxicity of ultrafine particles relates to their chemical makeup and, most importantly, their sources, supporting efforts to improve air quality and public health outcomes.