Connecting Science, Sustainability, and Standards: Meet Beatriz
Since childhood, Beatriz has been fascinated by how science and technology can help us live more sustainably. Over time, that curiosity grew into a passion for innovation: understanding how materials and processes can be reimagined to support both environmental and societal progress.
Having lived in Spain, Belgium, and the USA, she has learned that diversity in perspectives and collaboration across disciplines are key to solving today’s global challenges. Whether in a research lab, at a project meeting, or behind a camera lens, I am driven by the same goal: to connect ideas, people, and technologies in meaningful ways.
Inside Beatriz’s Professional World
After being graduated as an ir. (ingénieur civil) from the École Polytechnique de Bruxelles with a focus on materials science and chemical engineering, she embarked on a research journey centered on photocatalytic semiconductor materials for carbon capture and utilization (CCU) and solar-driven CO₂ conversion.
As a PhD researcher at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, and later as an associate researcher at Stanford University, she developed materials for next-generation clean energy technologies and presented her work internationally. Through these experiences, she collaborated with both academic and industrial partners, exploring the bridge between scientific innovation and industrial application.
Before joining the Belgian Electrotechnical Committee (BEC), she also gained hands-on experience at Toyota Motor Europe and in materials certification laboratories such as INESCOP, where she learned the importance of standards, process reliability, and sustainability in industrial innovation. She became deeply familiar with conformity assessment processes, including the testing and certification of materials and products to ensure compliance with ISO and national standards. These experiences highlighted how rigorous conformity assessment is essential for quality, safety, and trust, while enabling innovation within a structured, reliable framework.
She joined the BEC to contribute to the development of standards that support the EU’s green and digital transition. For her, standards are not just technical documents, they are a shared foundation that ensures progress is both innovative and responsible.
Beatriz through a few questions…
Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
"I am passionate about adventure sports: trekking and surfing have been part of my life since I was 13, when I first learned to surf on the French Atlantic coast. I also love photography, especially taking portraits of friends and family during my travels."
What makes you get up in the morning?
"The excitement of learning something new and working on projects that contribute to a more sustainable and connected world."
What is your greatest personal and professional achievement?
"Professionally, securing competitive EU research funding and presenting my work across Europe and the US has been deeply rewarding. Personally, I am proud of maintaining balance in my life, pursuing a career as an engineer, advancing my business studies, spending time with my loved ones, practicing sports, and nurturing creative passions like photography."
What is the best book you have read recently?
"I have recently been reading the poetic novels of Yasushi Inoue, whose work captures the quiet beauty of reflection and impermanence. I also love ‘Fahrenheit 451’ by Ray Bradbury, a timeless reminder of the power of knowledge, imagination, and free thought."
What animal would you consider your spirit animal?
"A dolphin: curious, communicative, and happiest when part of a team."
What is your favorite food?
"Coming from Spain, I have always loved the fresh flavors and hearty simplicity of Spanish dishes. I also have a soft spot for Thai cuisine, as it fascinates me with its vibrant balance of freshness and spice, especially in seafood dishes."
What is your biggest frustration?
"That there is never enough time to explore every idea, place, or story that sparks my curiosity."
What do you do in your free time?
"I love being outdoors, whether it is hiking, surfing, or capturing moments through my camera. I also enjoy reading, discovering new cultures, and exploring new destinations whenever I can."
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
"I dreamed of becoming an engineer or a pilot, someone who could explore, solve problems, and build things that make a difference."
What inspires you?
"I am inspired by people who blend science, creativity, and empathy: those who innovate not just for progress, but for purpose."
We are pleased to welcome Beatriz to the BEC.