National Institute for Lasers, Plasma and Radiation Physics | Romania
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Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Iulia Antohe began her academic journey in Physics at the University of Bucharest, Faculty of Physics, specializing in Medical Physics, where she obtained her B.Sc. degree in 2009. Her diploma thesis focused on the preparation and characterization of hybrid photovoltaic structures based on nanostructured ZnO/CuPc, laying an early foundation in solar cells/plasmonics research. She continued her studies with an M.Sc. in Advanced Materials and Nanostructures for Electronics and Optoelectronics (2011), where her dissertation was dedicated to the fabrication and characterization of ZnO thin films for photovoltaic applications. This trajectory culminated in a Ph.D. in Bioscience Engineering from KU Leuven, Belgium (2016), with her doctoral thesis on “Fiber optic surface modifications for improved plasmonic biosensing.”
Professional Endeavors
Dr. Antohe has developed a strong professional career, starting as a research assistant at the University of Bucharest and the National Institute of Material Physics (2009–2011), where she focused on photovoltaic cells based on organic thin films and hybrid structures. She later became a Marie Curie Early Stage Researcher at KU Leuven (2011–2016), where she specialized in biosensors and advanced solar cells/plasmonics platforms. Since 2016, she has worked at the National Institute for Lasers, Plasma and Radiation Physics in Romania, advancing from Scientific Researcher to Scientific Researcher 2nd Degree. Her work has consistently revolved around FO-SPR sensors, biofunctionalization of nanomaterials, conductometric gas sensors, and thin-film deposition techniques.
Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Antohe’s research has significantly contributed to the advancement of biosensing and nanotechnology, with a strong emphasis on solar cells/plasmonics. She has worked extensively on FO-SPR (fiber optic–surface plasmon resonance) sensors for healthcare and environmental monitoring, the synthesis and functionalization of gold and magnetic nanoparticles, and the integration of advanced thin-film deposition techniques such as magnetron sputtering and pulsed laser deposition. Her contributions to the development of bioassays for allergens and pathogens detection, as well as innovations in photovoltaic and plasmonic platforms, highlight her interdisciplinary expertise bridging materials science, nanotechnology, and applied physics.
Impact and Influence
Dr. Antohe’s influence extends through her active role in international collaborations, workshops, and summer schools, where she has participated as a researcher, mentor, and organizer. Her research in solar cells/plasmonics has had a notable impact in both academic and applied contexts, particularly in the development of biosensors that bridge healthcare, environmental science, and renewable energy. By contributing to projects funded at both national and international levels, and by publishing in high-impact peer-reviewed journals, she has established herself as a recognized scientist in the fields of nanomaterials and photonics.
Academic Cites
Her publications, covering topics such as FO-SPR platforms, nanomaterial biofunctionalization, and photovoltaic thin films, have been widely cited in scientific literature. This reflects the relevance of her work in driving forward research on hybrid materials, sensor development, and solar cells/plasmonics. Her research outputs continue to serve as reference points for advancements in biosensing and nanotechnology, ensuring a strong citation record across multiple disciplines.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Dr. Iulia Antohe’s legacy lies in her interdisciplinary contributions, combining physics, materials science, and biosensing. Moving forward, her future research will likely continue to enhance the efficiency of biosensing platforms, while exploring new opportunities in energy applications and advanced nanomaterials. Her dedication to mentoring students and fostering innovation ensures the continuity of her impact on the next generation of scientists. Her role as a bridge between advanced materials for energy applications and biomedical sensing underlines her long-term contribution to science and society.
Notable Publications
Title: Smart design of fiber optic surfaces for improved plasmonic biosensing
Authors: I. Arghir, F. Delport, D. Spasic, J. Lammertyn
Journal: New Biotechnology
Year: 2015
Citations: 90
Title: Improved surface plasmon resonance biosensing using silanized optical fibers
Authors: I. Arghir, D. Spasic, B.E. Verlinden, F. Delport, J. Lammertyn
Journal: Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical
Year: 2015
Citations: 63
Title: A polyaniline/platinum coated fiber optic surface plasmon resonance sensor for picomolar detection of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: I. Antohe, I. Iordache, V.A. Antohe, G. Socol
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2021
Citations: 42
Title: Nanoscale patterning of gold-coated optical fibers for improved plasmonic sensing
Authors: I. Antohe, D. Spasic, F. Delport, J. Li, J. Lammertyn
Journal: Nanotechnology
Year: 2017
Citations: 42
Title: Thermal annealing of gold coated fiber optic surfaces for improved plasmonic biosensing
Authors: I. Antohe, K. Schouteden, P. Goos, F. Delport, D. Spasic, J. Lammertyn
Journal: Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical
Year: 2016
Citations: 41
Title: Cadmium ions’ trace-level detection using a portable fiber optic—Surface plasmon resonance sensor
Authors: B.G. Şolomonea, L.I. Jinga, V.A. Antohe, G. Socol, I. Antohe
Journal: Biosensors
Year: 2022
Citations: 32
Title: Sensitive pH Monitoring Using a Polyaniline-Functionalized Fiber Optic—Surface Plasmon Resonance Detector
Authors: I. Antohe, L.I. Jinga, V.A. Antohe, G. Socol
Journal: Sensors
Year: 2021
Citations: 29
Conclusion
In summary, Dr. Iulia Antohe has built an exemplary academic and professional career defined by innovation, interdisciplinarity, and impactful research. Her expertise in thin-film technologies, biosensors, and solar cells/plasmonics underscores her role as a significant contributor to modern science. With her ongoing work at the National Institute for Lasers, Plasma and Radiation Physics, she continues to expand the frontiers of nanotechnology, renewable energy, and biomedical applications, leaving a lasting legacy of scientific excellence.