Helen Gika

Lecturer, Department of Chemical Engineering, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece.

Calling: “Disease biomarker discovery saves lives and improves the quality of life of millions. I choose to work with the most fragile newborn babies, which have limited means to communicate.”

Emphasis: “Metabolomics based disease biomarker discovery in embryo growth, and patient monitoring stratification in intensive care unit for preterm neonates (sepsis).”

Triumph: “We have initiated metabolomics research in Thessaloniki, training over 10 postgraduate students. Our publications receive over 350 citations annually.”

Respect: “Alexander Makarov and Janusz Pawliszyn”

Hope: “I wish to continue interacting with talented youth and contribute to creating potential and conditions to keep them in Greece in contrast to the massive ‘brain-drain’ trend.”

Prediction: “Miniaturization in LC-MS, though it may need more than five years to mature…”

Advice: “Find an environment where you feel happy. Don’t be afraid to alter your research perspective and sail into the unknown.”

Part of the Power List 2014

In 2013, we compiled a list of the Top 100 most influential analytical scientists – an endeavor that received a significant amount of attention and, it’s fair to say, caused more than a little controversy. Our 2014 Top 40 Under 40 list almost halves the average age of the celebrated individuals, with many of them born in the same year as the iconic Sex Pistols cover – 1977.

Go to The Power List 2014