Assoc. Prof. Dr. Loredana Elena Vijan, Pitesti University, Romania
Loredana Elena Vîjan is a distinguished Romanian physical chemist and associate professor at the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, Pitești University Centre. With over two decades of experience in physical chemistry and applied radiochemistry, she has established herself as a leading expert in the study of bioactive compounds, molecular interactions, and advanced analytical techniques. Her work bridges fundamental chemistry and practical applications in horticulture, pharmacology, and environmental sciences, emphasizing the interplay between chemical substances and biological systems. Vîjan’s extensive research output and dedication to education have significantly contributed to her field, earning her recognition in national and international scientific communities.
Professional Profile
🎓 Education
Vîjan’s academic journey began at the University of Bucharest, where she completed a Bachelor of Science in Physical Chemistry in 1995. She continued to deepen her expertise by obtaining a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry and Applied Radiochemistry in 1996 from the same institution. Her doctoral studies culminated in a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry in 2002 at the University of Bucharest’s Faculty of Chemistry. This solid foundation in physical chemistry provided her with the tools to conduct sophisticated molecular-level investigations, particularly in spectroscopic and computational studies.
💼 Experience
Since 1996, Vîjan’s career has evolved from teaching chemistry at the high school level to holding academic positions at the University of Pitești. She progressed from lecturer (2003-2008) to associate professor (2008-2024), and currently holds an associate professorship at the POLITEHNICA Bucharest, Pitești University Centre. Over this period, she has actively engaged in teaching, mentoring students, and managing research projects. Her experience is enriched by participation in numerous nationally funded research projects focusing on environmental quality, horticultural crop improvement, and the recovery of valuable metals. Her leadership in project management and collaboration with research teams underlines her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and practical solutions.
🔬 Research Interests
Vîjan’s research interests lie predominantly in physical chemistry applied to molecular interactions and bioactive compounds. She specializes in the use of spectroscopic methods such as UV-VIS, fluorescence spectroscopy, FTIR, Raman, and NMR to explore the structural and dynamic properties of chemical and biological molecules. Her work often involves molecular modeling and computational chemistry to understand excited states and transition states of organic compounds. Additionally, she investigates extraction and processing technologies for horticultural plants, focusing on antioxidant properties and the prooxidant effects of natural compounds. Her multidisciplinary approach extends to adsorption studies and environmental chemistry, highlighting sustainable practices and the recovery of resources from waste.
📖 Publications Top Notes
📄 Assessment of Ascorbic Acid, Polyphenols, Flavonoids, Anthocyanins and Carotenoids Content in Tomato Fruits
Authors: M. Tudor-Radu, L. E. Vîjan, C. M. Tudor-Radu, I. Tița, R. Sima, R. Mitrea
Published in Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca, Volume 44, Issue 2, Pages 477-483, 2016
Summary: This publication delivers an in-depth biochemical profile of tomato fruits, identifying essential antioxidants and their variation, which supports the understanding of nutritional quality and breeding strategies for enhanced health benefits.
📄 Botanical Origin Influence on Some Honey Physicochemical Characteristics and Antioxidant Properties
Authors: L. E. Vîjan, I. C. Mazilu, C. Enache, S. Enache, C. M. Topală
Published in Foods, Volume 12, Issue 11, Article 2134, 2023
Summary: The article elucidates the impact of floral sources on honey’s chemical and antioxidant profiles, providing essential data for quality assessment and supporting the value of botanical origin in honey characterization.
📄 Evolution of the Polyphenols, Flavonoids, and Tannins Content in Walnut Leaves and Green Walnut Husk During Growing Season
Authors: S. Giura, B. Mihai, M. D. L. Vulpe, L. E. Vîjan, R. Mitrea
Published in Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca, Volume 47, Issue 4, Pages 1264-1271, 2019
Summary: The study tracks antioxidant compound variations in walnut plant parts throughout growth, informing agricultural practices to optimize the use of walnut leaves and husks as natural antioxidant sources.
📄 DNA Influence on Norfloxacin Fluorescence
Authors: E. Perianu, I. Rau, L. E. Vîjan
Published in Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, Volume 206, Pages 8-15, 2019
Summary: This paper elucidates the molecular interactions between norfloxacin and DNA by studying fluorescence changes, advancing the knowledge of antibiotic behavior in biological environments.
📄 Adsorption Isotherms of Phenol and Aniline on Activated Carbon
Authors: L. E. Vîjan, M. Neagu
Published in Revue Roumaine de Chimie, Volume 57, Issue 2, Pages 85-93, 2012
Summary: The study characterizes how activated carbon adsorbs phenol and aniline, offering valuable information for pollution control and the optimization of wastewater treatment processes.
🏆 Conclusion
Loredana Elena Vîjan’s career exemplifies the productive fusion of rigorous physical chemistry with practical applications in biological and environmental contexts. Her academic and research trajectory reflects a sustained commitment to scientific excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and education. Through her extensive publication record and participation in key projects, she has advanced understanding of molecular interactions, bioactive compounds, and sustainable chemical processes. Her work continues to inspire developments in chemistry and related sciences, making her a strong candidate for recognition and awards in the scientific community.