Personal Information
- Name: Apostolos Chamos
- Position/Title: Managing Director (Dr.)
Professional Background
Briefly describe your professional background and area of expertise:
I am a Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineer, holding a PhD on the mechanical behavior of light alloys for aero-structural applications. I have more than 20 years of experience in the field of Aviation and Space research and involved in more than 30 Research & Innovation Actions, as well as Coordination and Support Actions of the EC, aiming to assess the RTDI state of the art in Europe in the fields of aviation & space and to accordingly formulate strategic recommendations for implementing suitable novel policies towards meeting the evolving needs of the sector. I am a member of the EASN Association and authorized by the EASN Association Board of Directors to act on behalf of the Association with respect to EU funded projects. I have co-authored more than 40 scientific publications in peer reviewed journals and conference proceedings.
What inspired you to pursue a career in this related field, e.g., aviation, carbon-free emissions etc?
Maybe this answer is not expected, but I never dreamed of being in the aviation sector when I was a kid.
When I finished my studies as Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineer, I decided to go for a PhD in light materials. I have been given the opportunity to join a great research team in the Laboratory of Technology & Strength of Materials (LTSM) of the University of Patras. LTSM is one of the most recognized aviation research labs Europewide, so from the very beginning, I was involved in the implementation of actual aviation research work. And that was it!
I realized that aviation was meant to be the sector where my career could evolve.
Role in H2ELIOS
What is your role in the H2ELIOS project?
I have been involved in H2ELIOS since the preparation phase when the idea was turned into a winning proposal. I oversee the legal and financial aspects on behalf of EASN, and I also consult our project managers about issues related to the communication & dissemination strategy.
Can you describe your main responsibilities and tasks?
EASN is leading the communication & dissemination activities of H2ELIOS. We have elaborated and we are implementing a tailored communication and dissemination strategy. Our goal is to develop attractive material and exploit the right channels to increase the visibility of the project. In parallel, we support our partners in their dissemination activities.
How does your work contribute to the overall goals of the H2ELIOS project?
The implementation of a tailored and efficient communication and dissemination strategy is a key aspect to maximizing the project’s impact.
Our mission is to act as communication multipliers, spreading the word and raising awareness about H2ELIOS achievements.
This is for both the scientific community, the industry, the policy makers, and also the general public. We should not forget that these initiatives are co-funded by the money of the European taxpayers!
Project Insights
What do you find most exciting about working on the H2ELIOS project?
In the aviation sector, it is only a few years since hydrogen has been considered as a potential alternative fuel. It means that the whole aircraft fuel storage and propulsion system needs to be redesigned.
Working with this great group of partners at the forefront of this research topic is very exciting.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your work on this project?
You know, communication is about finding the right word at the right time. During the implementation of such an ambitious project dealing with disruptive technologies, it is likely that you may need to reorient the message you want to pass to the target audience. So, you need to be flexible and agile. This looks to me the most challenging aspect of our work.
Communication is about finding the right word at the right time.
Can you share a significant milestone or achievement your team has reached so far?
Through the different communication & dissemination tools and channels we have developed since the beginning of the project, we managed to create a wide network of H2ELIOS followers/connections. It means that the message about the achievements of H2ELIOS can reach a wide audience, including the industry, the research community, as well as the general public.
Personal Experience
What have you learned during your time working on H2ELIOS?
Ambitious projects usually face unforeseen challenges during implementation. An experienced and open-minded group of people always find the optimum solution to overcome any barrier.
How has this project influenced your professional development?:
Every project is one more building block in our professional development. We become more mature and we may develop new skills.
Fun Facts
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Frankly speaking, nothing special. I enjoy reading books and watching sports.