Ms. Effimia Angeli | Prehistoric Archaeology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Effimia Angeli, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Poland

Effimia Angeli is an accomplished archaeologist and PhD candidate at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Poland. Born on June 7, 1991, she has developed expertise in Neolithic pottery, focusing on Central Greece. Her passion for archaeology began during her undergraduate studies at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology and History of Art in 2014. She went on to pursue a Master’s in Mediterranean Archaeology at the University of Nottingham, completing her thesis on Neolithic painted ware. Effimia has participated in various archaeological projects across Greece and Poland, working extensively in field excavations, museum curation, and digital documentation. Her current PhD research delves into pottery as a source of information on Neolithic communities in Phthiotis, Greece. She continues to present her findings at international conferences, contributing to our understanding of ancient Mediterranean cultures.

Professional Profile

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Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award: Effimia Angeli

Effimia Angeli’s extensive academic background, research contributions, and practical experience in archaeology make her a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. She holds a Master’s degree in Mediterranean Archaeology from the University of Nottingham with distinction and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in archaeology, focusing on the Neolithic communities of Greece. Her diverse and high-quality research includes significant contributions to the understanding of pottery as a historical source, showcasing her ability to connect material culture to broader anthropological questions. Her publications in international journals, coupled with her participation in numerous excavation projects across Europe, reflect her ongoing commitment to advancing the field of archaeology.

Education

Effimia Angeli’s academic journey reflects her deep interest in archaeology. She is currently a PhD candidate at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Poland, where her dissertation explores Neolithic pottery from Phthiotis, Central Greece, examining the period from 6370–5300 BC. She earned her Master of Arts in Mediterranean Archaeology from the University of Nottingham, UK, in 2019. Her MA thesis focused on the development of painted ware during the Middle and Late Neolithic periods in Central Greece, receiving a Distinction. Before that, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology and History of Art at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in 2014, with a thesis examining pottery in early Greek settlements. Her education has provided her with both theoretical knowledge and practical field experience, shaping her into an expert on Neolithic pottery and its role in ancient civilizations.

🏆 Grants

In 2024–2025, the Association for Environmental Archaeology (AEA) awarded a grant of 1961 GBP for the project “Environment and Interactions in Neolithic Greece: geoarchaeological research at Halai (Central Greece).” Led by Principal Investigator E. Angeli, the project focuses on exploring environmental and human interactions during the Neolithic period through geoarchaeological investigations at the site of Halai.

Experience

Effimia Angeli has a broad range of archaeological experience. Since 2021, she has participated in 13 rescue excavations in Poland, contributing to projects with firms like ArchaeoAdventure and Azupiranu Archaeological Services. She has worked on excavation sites across Poland, including medieval churches and cemeteries, gaining experience in digital documentation and excavation management. In Greece, Effimia has been part of the Cornell Halai and East Lokris Project since 2012, focusing on the study of Neolithic pottery. Her prior roles also include curatorial work for various Greek museums, where she was involved in the digital recording of collections. Her experience extends to training undergraduate students in archaeological drawing, excavation techniques, and pottery analysis. Effimia’s expertise spans prehistoric, medieval, and Roman archaeological contexts, making her a versatile and skilled professional in both field and academic settings.

Awards and Honors

Effimia Angeli has achieved recognition for her academic and fieldwork contributions in archaeology. In 2023, she secured first place in the PhD evaluation procedure at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Poland, earning a 100% qualification for her research on Neolithic pottery. During her studies at the University of Nottingham, she was awarded a Distinction for her MA thesis on painted ware from Thessaly and Central Greece. Effimia has also been invited to present her research at prestigious international conferences, including the European Association of Archaeologists’ Annual Meetings and the Belgrade Conference on Archaeological Pottery. Her contributions to publications and her role as a field team leader in various excavation projects have earned her respect among her peers. Effimia’s dedication to the advancement of archaeological knowledge has been consistently recognized throughout her career.

Research Focus

Effimia Angeli’s research is centered on Neolithic pottery, with a specific focus on Central Greece. Her PhD dissertation examines pottery as a source of information about Neolithic communities in Phthiotis from 6370 to 5300 BC. Effimia’s approach combines macroscopic analysis and conceptual metaphor theory to understand the symbolic and functional uses of pottery in ancient societies. Her previous work has explored the development of painted ware during the Middle and Late Neolithic periods, comparing regional differences between Thessaly and Central Greece. Effimia is particularly interested in the intersection of material culture and community identity, using ceramics as a lens through which to understand trade, social interaction, and environmental adaptation in prehistoric Greece. Her research also touches on the influence of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis, on settlement patterns and pottery styles in coastal regions.

Publication Top Notes

“Conceptual meanings in middle Neolithic red-painted pottery from Central Greece: A case study”

“The Late Neolithic Pattern Burnished Pottery from Halai in East Locris, Central Greece: Preliminary Results of the Macroscopic Analysis”

“How did environmental factors affect the spread of Minoan Thalassocracy? Seasonal changes in winds and currents and their influence on the Minoan exchange networks”

“Painting the pots in the Middle Neolithic period. Red-on-White pottery from Central Greece”

“The development of maritime activity in the Aegean during the Bronze Age: navigational techniques and shipbuilding”

David Monroy, University of Miami, United States

David Monroy is a dedicated researcher with a strong background in neurocritical care and ophthalmology research. A graduate of Florida International University with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, David has developed significant expertise through his involvement in cutting-edge research projects. He has contributed to impactful studies at the University of Miami’s Neurology and Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, co-authoring numerous publications in esteemed journals. His focus on ocular surface tumors and brain injury has earned him recognition in the medical research community. David is passionate about scientific discovery and its real-world applications, aiming to bridge the gap between research and patient care. He is currently expanding his knowledge in traumatic brain injuries and their long-term outcomes through ongoing projects. His collaborative spirit and dedication to ethical research practices have positioned him as a promising young researcher in the medical field.

Professional Profile

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Education :

David Monroy earned his Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Florida International University (FIU) in 2020, where he followed a pre-medical track. As a student at FIU, David participated in various research programs, including the SEA-PHAGES program, where he discovered and analyzed novel bacteriophages. His educational journey was marked by an honors-level academic experience, which equipped him with the critical thinking and technical skills necessary for scientific research. Additionally, his time at FIU fostered a deep interest in neurobiology and medical sciences, which laid the groundwork for his subsequent research into neurocritical care and ophthalmology. Throughout his studies, David developed a comprehensive understanding of biological systems, disease mechanisms, and medical treatments, all while maintaining a high standard of academic achievement. His undergraduate experiences have significantly influenced his career trajectory in medical research.

Experience :

David Monroy’s research career includes notable roles such as Neurocritical Care Research Associate at the University of Miami, where he currently supports clinical studies in the neurosurgical intensive care unit. His work involves ensuring adherence to ethical protocols, communicating with patient families, and contributing to impactful studies on traumatic brain injury. Previously, David participated in ophthalmology research at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, focusing on ocular surface tumors and diagnostic techniques. He has authored multiple manuscripts and presented research findings at conferences, demonstrating his ability to communicate complex data effectively. During his time at Florida International University, he interned in a Parkinson’s disease research lab, where he gained experience in laboratory techniques and the study of neurodegenerative diseases. David’s career reflects a commitment to advancing medical knowledge through both clinical and basic science research, with a focus on improving patient care outcomes.

Awards and Honors :

David Monroy’s research and academic excellence have earned him several accolades. His work at the University of Miami’s Department of Neurology has been recognized for its contributions to understanding traumatic brain injuries, leading to multiple poster presentations at the prestigious Neurocritical Care Society conferences. Additionally, his studies on ocular surface tumors at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute have resulted in peer-reviewed publications and presentations at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) conference. David’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge has been rewarded with co-authorship on high-impact medical papers, underscoring his role in groundbreaking discoveries. While at Florida International University, he was part of the honors college, a testament to his academic dedication. His volunteer efforts, particularly with underserved communities, have also been recognized, reflecting his commitment to both research and service.

Research Focus :

David Monroy’s research is primarily focused on neurocritical care and ophthalmology, with an emphasis on traumatic brain injury and ocular surface tumors. In neurocritical care, his work has centered on understanding the cognitive and motor dissociation in brain injury patients, as well as examining the causes of traumatic brain injuries across different demographics. His research aims to improve long-term patient outcomes through innovative treatments and monitoring techniques. In ophthalmology, David has explored the infectious etiology of conjunctival tumors and developed diagnostic modalities for ocular surface squamous neoplasia. His research seeks to enhance early detection and improve therapeutic interventions for patients with ocular diseases. By collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, David continues to contribute to research that bridges the gap between laboratory findings and clinical applications, ensuring that his work has a tangible impact on patient care.

Publication Top notes :

📘 Alvarez OP., Monroy D., Thura S., et al. Infectious Etiology of Conjunctival Tumors. Expert Review of Ophthalmology, 2024.
👁️ Monroy D., Venkateswaran N., Matthews JL., et al. Conjunctival keratoacanthoma: a clinical and histopathological case series. Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology, 2024.
🔬 Monroy D., Serrano A., Galor A., & Karp CL. Medical treatments for ocular surface squamous neoplasia. Eye, 2023.
💀 Monroy D., Garcia J., Zarate SD., et al. Displaced humeral pathological fracture secondary to intraosseous hemangioma. Radiology Case Reports, 2022.