The Scientific Career System (SCS) welcomes and congratulates the two (2) newly conferred Career Scientist I from the Department of Science and Technology - Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI).
Dr. Ronaldo P. Parreño Jr. is a lead researcher at the DOST-ITDI, spearheading efforts in fuel cells, hydrogen, and energy-related technologies to develop innovative energy and engineering solutions. His interdisciplinary expertise in chemistry, engineering, and materials science has driven the development of advanced materials essential for energy systems.
A key achievement under his leadership is the establishment of ITDI’s Fuel Cell R&D and Testing Center, which supports research on renewable and eco-friendly materials to enhance fuel cell components. His work has led to promising outcomes, including the conversion of cotton waste into cellulose whiskers for hybrid membrane fillers and the use of water hyacinth biochar as a low-cost electrode catalyst support.
Dr. Parreño also developed lab-based membranes and electrode catalysts into a functional three-layered Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA), which showed strong performance during testing. He is currently designing and optimizing the prototype fuel cell stack, conducting validation tests, and preparing for a pilot demonstration.
Looking ahead, he aims to build partnerships for deploying fuel cell-integrated renewable energy systems in remote off-grid communities, supporting reliable power access, job creation, and improved quality of life.
Dr. Persia Ada N. de Yro is a distinguished scientist and researcher in metallurgical and materials science and engineering, with a special focus on nanotechnology and additive manufacturing. Her commitment to research excellence is reflected in her substantial contributions to both government initiatives and academic programs in the Philippines.
Her interdisciplinary work spans nanocomposites, polymer materials, membrane technologies, carbon quantum dots (CQDs), and additive manufacturing. She is particularly recognized for her pioneering work on green-synthesized, sustainable CQDs—a promising class of nanomaterials with applications in sensing, imaging, and photonics.
Dr. de Yro’s impact goes beyond the laboratory. She actively mentors young scientists and students in both industry and academia. Her research has received numerous awards for excellence in national and international conferences. She has authored and co-authored several Scopus-indexed journal articles and holds multiple utility models and copyrights, underscoring her creativity and productivity.
Through her work, Dr. de Yro remains committed to advancing science and technology for national development, while inspiring the next generation of Filipino scientists and engineers.