Dr. Elena Castagnotto

Dr. Elena Castagnotto is a postdoctoral researcher at Arts University Bournemouth, where she investigates how polymeric materials behave under mechanical, chemical, and environmental influences. Her research aims to understand and predict material ageing and degradation, combining analytical research with real-world challenges in material performance and durability. Before moving to the UK, Elena worked as a researcher at the University of Genoa, focusing on the alteration mechanisms of pigment–binder systems and accelerated ageing processes. She also collaborated with the Italian Fine Arts Superintendency on conservation projects, applying scientific methods to the study and protection of cultural heritage. Combining materials science, chemistry, and conservation, her work integrates chemometric approaches with advanced characterisation techniques to explore how materials change over time.