Martina Piletti
Runner-Up
What encouraged you to submit your application to the 2025 Postgraduate Research Publication of the Year?
Self-submissions can be uncomfortable, especially as an early-career researcher surrounded by such talented colleagues. Like many others, I had moments of uncertainty, wondering if my research was good enough; but I also felt that if I did not give it a chance, I would never know. The encouragement and support of my supervisor, Daniela, ultimately gave me the confidence to submit. I am very glad I did.
What inspired you to choose the subject of your paper?
I was inspired by the same reason that led me to pursue this PhD in the first place: the opportunity to apply my expertise in chemistry and nanotechnology to real-world challenges. I was particularly intrigued by the chance to work on a problem that is often overlooked, but which has significant societal and economic implications, especially in Europe: counterfeiting. Being able to contribute to a solution in this space made the topic both meaningful and motivating for me.
What’s your paper about and how did you prepare for it? What role did research leadership play in your approach?
My paper focuses on the electrochemical synthesis of carbon nanodots for fluorescent anticounterfeiting inks, with particular emphasis on their durability over time and under harsh environmental conditions. Counterfeiting of high-value items, such as artworks, banknotes, pharmaceuticals, etc., represent a major societal and economic challenge. In Europe alone, counterfeited goods account for 5% of total imports, generating an estimated 461 billion USD in illegal sales and highlighting the urgent need for new, robust anticounterfeiting technologies.
The idea for this research belongs to my supervisor, Daniela, whose guidance has been of paramount importance throughout my journey. She has created a serene environment that balances independence with support and encouraged me to think critically and develop as a researcher, while always being there to provide direction when needed.
At the same time, I took an active role in leading the research day to day. I studied the topic thoroughly, then I designed and carried out experiments using the facilities I had available in Tyndall and UCC, continuously refining the methods as I progressed. For work requiring external facilities, I coordinated collaborations, contributed to the experimental design, and carefully analysed and integrated the results into the final paper.
This was very much a collaborative effort, and I am deeply grateful to Daniela and to all the colleagues and collaborators who supported me along the way.
The selection for Research Publication of the Year is extremely competitive. What is your advice for those aspiring for nomination next year?
My main advice would be: just go for it. Behind every PhD project, and especially every research paper, there is a huge amount of hard work that deserves to be recognised. It is easy to doubt whether your work is “good enough,” but it is important to give yourself a chance. Submitting is already a step forward. From there, many factors are outside your control but recognising the value of your own research and putting it forward matters. Even when things don’t go your way, the process itself builds confidence and resilience.
What is the single most significant support Tyndall has been able to offer you in achieving your research goals?
Tyndall has given me so much: excellent infrastructure, opportunities to grow and to obtain recognition, and constant encouragement throughout my PhD. All of these have shaped the researcher and the person I am today.
If I had to choose just one thing, it would be the people. The support, guidance, and generosity of colleagues and mentors have made the biggest difference. It’s the daily interactions and being part of a collaborative environment that really helped me grow.
View Martina’s research publication here ‘Electrochemical synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbon dot inks and evaluation of their use for anticounterfeiting applications’.