Prof. Daniel A. Vella is an Associate Professor in the Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering at the University of Malta. His research focuses on the surface engineering of metallic and ceramic surfaces, with an interest in the development of protective and functional coatings. He has also recently embarked on a project dealing with the synthesis, characterisation and testing of carbon-based aerogels.
Prof. Vella obtained his PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Malta, where his doctoral research addressed the development of transparent protective coatings for corroded steel surfaces within a heritage conservation context.
Prof. Vella previously worked as a conservation scientist at Heritage Malta and as a chemist in the energy sector before joining academia in 2009. His research spans heritage materials, advanced coatings, biodegradable alloys and nanomaterials.
Prof. Vella serves as a court-appointed forensic expert in fires and explosives.
