International Research Internship in Slovenia: Developing Catalysts for Greenhouse Gas Utilization

Magira Zhylkybek, Acting Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis and Petrochemistry at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, is undertaking a research internship in the Department of Catalysis and Chemical Reaction Engineering at the National Institute of Chemistry, Slovenia. The internship is being carried out within the framework of the “Zhas Galym” project for 2025–2027, entitled “Developing the Fundamental Principles for the Design of Polyoxide Catalysts for Greenhouse Gas Utilization.”

Under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Andrii Kostyniuk, collaborative research is being conducted to develop new polyoxide catalysts for the efficient utilization of greenhouse gases. The research aims to advance fundamental understanding of the relationships between the composition, physicochemical properties, and catalytic activity of the materials under development.

The internship involves experimental studies using advanced research equipment, high-precision analysis of reaction products, and comprehensive physicochemical characterization of the synthesized catalysts. The resulting data are being systematized and consolidated for the preparation of a research article on polyoxide catalytic systems.

This work is particularly significant in the context of sustainable development. The research aligns with SDG 13, “Climate Action”: developing catalysts for greenhouse gas utilization provides a scientific foundation for exploring technological solutions in this field. The development of new catalytic materials and the strengthening of research capabilities also align with SDG 9, “Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure,” which promotes scientific research and innovation.

The internship contributes to strengthening international scientific cooperation at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, exchanging research expertise, and acquiring proficiency in modern experimental approaches. Collaboration with international colleagues expands opportunities for joint research projects and publications in key areas of catalysis and environmentally oriented chemical technologies.

G. Y. Yergazieva, Candidate of Chemical Sciences, Professor, 

Head of the Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis and Petrochemistry