PROMISCES Young Researchers: Dobril Valchev
In PROMISCES, many young researchers are working in a wide variety of fields. But one thing they have in common: To enable a circular economy in the soil-sediment-water system and to fight PFAS. One of them is Dobril Valchev. He is a Chief Assistant Professor at the University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy in Sofia, Bulgaria. With his research, he wants to shed a light on the distribution of PFAS.
Do you think your work can have an impact on the world?
Yes, if not on the world, at least on a local level. Working in the field of such emerging problems, that are affecting all environmental aspects currently, and being intact with the latest technologies, is the strongest driving force for me.
Why did you choose to work in the field of PFAS research and why is this topic so important?
I got introduced to PFAS (and other micropollutants) as well as to their removal technologies a few years back and ever since then, my perspective has shifted. In recent years, with the development of harsh chemical production and increased synthetic commodity use, the water treatment industry has had to overcompensate and become more and more specific. I believe that finding a way to successfully cope is of paramount importance, which is why the issue of PFAS is so significant today.
Dobril Valchev, Chief Assistant Professor at the University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy in Sofia, Bulgaria. @Dobril Valchev
Which impact do you think your research will have on the future? What changes can be made with this new knowledge?
Hopefully, our research will shed more light on the distribution of PFAS and expand the possible application of certain technologies in order to achieve an effective result with maximum feasibility. This would help with the preparation of strategic EU and national legislation documents. We believe that our research will also help with the acceleration of the development of new PFAS removal methods.
Does working in PROMISCES have an impact on everyday life?
Yes, I have definitely started to be more aware of the PFAS content of everyday items that my family and I use. As an assistant professor at our university and as a friend and family member, I do my best to spread the knowledge about PFAS and how important it is for our health and the environment in general. It is always fascinating for me to see how people go from sceptic to concerned, once they start to get more and more informed on the topic of persistent organic pollutants.