Dr. Sanchez-Fernandez receives this award in recognition of the originality, quality, and clear independence of his scientific work in colloid and interface science. Since completing his PhD, Dr. Sanchez-Fernandez has established a distinctive research profile that is independent from his doctoral training, developing his own research directions in deep eutectic solvents, surfactant self-assembly, biomolecular colloids, and soft materials. His corresponding-author publications demonstrate scientific leadership, intellectual autonomy,
and the ability to open new avenues in sustainable formulation science and biomolecular materials. For these reasons, the Committee considers him an outstanding young scientist and a deserving recipient in the spirit of Professor Maria Miguel.