Dr. Valentin VALTCHEV

Valentin Valtchev is the leader of zeolite team at the Laboratory of Catalysis and Spectrochemistry (LCS), ENSICAEN, Normandy University, Caen, France.

Valentin obtained his Master’s degree (1985) in the University of Sofia and his PhD degree (1991) in the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. He was postdoctoral fellow at Salford university, UK (1992-1993) and University of Lulea, Sweden (1995-1996), and University Haute Alsace, France (1997-1999).

At present, Valentin  is Research Director at the Laboratory of Catalysis and Spectroscopy (LCS) in Caen, France. He is also Visiting Professor at China Academy of Sciences and Honorary Professor of China University of Petroleum.

In 2016 – 2019 Valentin was President-elect of the International Zeolite Association, where currently serving as the Ambassador of International Zeolite Association.

Valentin Valtchev’s research involves the synthesis and post-synthesis modification of zeolites and other porous solids that can be used for catalysis, separation, and molecular recognition. His research activities can be summarized as “Zeolite Crystal Engineering”.  VV recent research interests include also 3D COF materials and gas hydrates for H₂, CH₄ and CO₂ storage.

His contribution to understanding the nucleation in organic-free hydrogel systems leading to the rational design of industrially relevant nanosized zeolites was recognized by the international community with:

• the International Zeolite Association Award in 2022;
• the Baron Axel fon Cronstedt Award by the European Zeolite Associations Federation (FEZA) in 2014;
• the Donald Breck Award by the International Zeolite Association (IZA) in 2016;
• the “Le Prix La Recherche Chimie” France in 2016 ;
• the “Eureka” Award – Bulgaria Young Inventor Award in 1991.