National Institute of Research and Development for Biological Sciences (INCDSB) announces the successful completion of PhD theses by two of its members from the Department of Bioinformatics, Dr Marian Necula and Dr Eduard C. Milea. Both have obtained their PhD degrees following novel research on topical and important issues.

Dr. Marian Necula: Monitoring freshwater bodies in the Danube Delta using remote sensing and machine learning

Research by Dr. Marian Necula focused on the use of remote sensing data to monitor freshwater bodies in the Danube Delta, a key resource for biodiversity, local communities and economic growth. The main objective of the thesis was to develop machine learning models for estimating the degree of eutrophication by analysing nutrient concentrations and to implement a web application for real-time monitoring of these factors. The research contributes significantly to the understanding and sustainable management of freshwaters, providing stakeholders in the Danube Delta with an effective tool to prevent eutrophication impacts on health and the local economy.

This thesis is closely linked to the pan-European project DANUBIUS-RI, which supports an integrated research infrastructure to study the complex interactions between water, ecosystems and economic activities, contributing to the sustainable management of aquatic resources.

Dr. Eduard C. Milea: The impact of SARS-CoV-2 on social and epidemiological dynamics in Romania

Dr. Eduard C. Milea dedicated his PhD thesis to analyse the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Romania, focusing on its social and epidemiological dynamics. His study explores the evolution of COVID-19 support groups on the Facebook platform, highlighting changes in social behaviours and needs of individuals during the pandemic. A novel component of the research was the use of data collected through the social media platform to analyse the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies and to build predictive models on the evolution of COVID-19 cases based on public indicators, such as crowding data in public spaces.

Dr. Milea's thesis demonstrates the importance of data generated through public participation and social networks as valuable tools in improving public health strategies and managing global epidemiological crises.

INCDSB congratulates the new doctors for their contributions and efforts in advancing scientific knowledge with practical application in environmental protection and public health.