Rafael Grande

Specialist in materials science and engineering with a focus on bio-based materials, polymer processing, and surface chemistry, strongly aligned with sustainability and technological innovation. Graduated in Physics from UNESP (2007), he completed his masters (2010) and doctoral degrees (2015) at UFSCar, making significant contributions to the development of methodologies for incorporating low-polarity polymers into thermoplastic blends and compatibilizing polymers with nanofillers.During his postdoctoral fellowship at the School of Engineering of São Carlos (EESC-USP, 2015-2019), he worked in the Department of Materials Engineering (SMM) as a FAPESP-funded researcher, developing advanced processing methods for incorporating polar polymers into thermoplastic resins, targeting applications in the packaging and biomedical sectors. During this period, he enhanced techniques that improved the thermal and mechanical stability of these materials, emphasizing their applicability in industrial solutions.With support from FAPESP (BEPE grant, 2018-2019), he advanced his research at Aalto University, Finland, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Orlando Rojas and in collaboration with Prof. Monika Österberg. His work focused on producing composite microfibers and innovative bioproducts, fostering sustainable alternatives for spinning natural nanoblocks.Between 2020 and 2022, he was employed as a postdoctoral researcher at Aalto University, Finland, where he led projects exploring surface functionalization and the creation of bioinspired materials for advanced applications in biotechnology, biomedicine, and biomass valorization.Recognized for his academic output, including publications in high-impact journals and significant contributions to international conferences, he remains committed to the practical application of his research, bridging the gap between academia and industry to deliver sustainable and innovative solutions. (Source: Lattes Curriculum)