Mrs Elisa Guimaraes Puccinelli Rebelo

I am investigating the Continuous Hydrothermal Flow Synthesis (CHFS) of Carbon Quantum Dots (CQDs), using various biomass precursors for their production. The research aims to perform a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the environmental and economic impacts of current synthesis methods and to propose strategies for producing CQDs more sustainably. The study will also investigate the integration of CQDs in photovoltaic cells, with a focus on innovative approaches to end-of-life management and recyclability. By addressing these critical challenges, this research aims to advance sustainable CQD production while identifying scalable and environmentally responsible industrial applications, seeking to position CQDs as a transformative material for renewable energy technologies, driving progress in efficient and sustainable nanomanufacturing practices.

Subjects Taught

As a Lecturer in the Mechanical Engineering and Design courses, my role encompasses a wide range of academic and extracurricular responsibilities. I teach a diverse array of courses, including Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Product Design, Product Design and Technology, LSBU’s Green Skills Bootcamps programme, and Rail Engineering Apprenticeships.

I lead key modules, such as Introduction to Mechanical and Electronics Engineering (Level 4), where I teach the fundamentals of applied mechanical engineering while introducing students to electrical components and their integration into engineered systems.

In Design Futures and Emerging Technologies (Level 5), I focus on expanding students' awareness of cutting-edge technological advancements and their ethical, economic, and socio-cultural implications. The module enhances students’ ability to address and think critically about future challenges, particularly in relation to the advancement of regenerative materials within design. It explores areas such as materials selection and testing, sustainable design principles, and hands-on prototyping with microcontrollers and electronic systems

In Research Methods for Design Projects (Level 6), I am responsible to equip students with the skills to apply research-driven methodologies to identify, define, and initiate their final-year design projects within the Engineering and Design fields.

Furthermore, as the academic lead for the extracurricular activity, IMechE Design Challenge, I am committed to actively encouraging, supporting, and enabling students from the School of Engineering and Design to participate in this prestigious national competition which I had the privilege of planning, organizing, and hosting the renowned 2024 IMechE Design Challenge at LSBU, and the event was recognized as a benchmark in the Greater London Region of the competition.

Additional Responsibility

As the Recruitment and Admissions Lead for the College of Technology and Environment, I work closely with the School’s Deputy Heads and Course Leaders to ensure the seamless execution of recruitment activities throughout the UCAS cycle and other key events. My responsibilities include supporting the School’s outreach and widening participation initiatives, where I have successfully increased engagement through targeted events and partnerships. As chair of the 'Student Recruitment & Marketing Committee,' I provide regular updates on recruitment and admissions progress and develop innovative strategies to boost student numbers and application conversion rates. I oversee UCAS and international applications, coordinating the clearing process within the College to ensure a prompt and efficient review, eliminating bottlenecks and enhancing the applicant experience. Additionally, I manage promotional activities and contribute to website content, leveraging digital platforms to reach prospective students. In collaboration with Course Leaders and Deputy Heads of Schools, I establish partnerships with local schools, colleges, and the LSBU Group, strengthening connections that support our broader recruitment and outreach objectives.

As a Level 4 Pathway Lead – BSc Engineering Product Design and Product Design Courses, I am responsible for coordinating pastoral support for Level 4 students, focusing on enhancing continuation rates and supporting induction, personal tutoring, coaching, and extracurricular activities. This involves understanding students' needs and challenges and developing new initiatives aimed at fostering a greater sense of belonging among our students.

Research and Enterprise

Driven by a strong passion for materials, as the co-founder of the ReGen Material Futures Lab, I have had the privilege of inspiring students from the School of Engineering and Design to focus their projects on regenerative materials and sustainability. Our mission at the lab is to drive scientific advancements, collaborate with industry partners to develop sustainable materials, and enhance both the income and reputation of our College. We are also committed to providing employment opportunities for students, allowing them to contribute positively to societal and environmental challenges.