Nefeli Chatzistefani

BSc, MSc in Applied Mathematics and Physics, National Technical University of Athens; MSc in Applied Mechanics, National Technical University of Athens; PhD in Biomedical Engineering, University of Warwick.

Dr. Chatzistefani is an assistant Professor at Deree, with extensive experience in Biomedical Engineering, Applied Mathematics and Applied Mechanics. Holding a Ph.D. in Engineering, Dr. Chatzistefani’s research has focused on the mathematical/mechanical modeling and simulation of the musculoskeletal system of the human body, with specific application to the human foot and the Achilles tendon. Throughout her academic career, she has held a range of teaching and administrative positions at Deree, the University of Warwick, and the University of West Attica, demonstrating a strong commitment to interdisciplinary education, student-centered learning, and innovative teaching practices.

Dr. Chatzistefani currently serves as the Area Coordinator for Mathematics at Deree and is a co-founder of the RoBio Lab, an interdisciplinary initiative combining robotics, biomechanics, mathematics, physics and computational science. A key area of her academic interest is the development of interdisciplinary approaches to teaching mechanics and mathematics through the study of human movement. In particular, she is interested in engaging students in the exploration of biomechanics by connecting mathematical and mechanical concepts to real-world applications and familiar activities such as sports and human movement. Her broader interests also include the design and construction of robotic systems, the integration of artificial intelligence into teaching and learning activities through the use of NAO robots, and the development of research projects in biomechanics.

Selected Publications

• G. Antoniadou, T. Theocharis, N. Chatzistefani and M. Kallergi, “Personalized Biomechanic Models: Factors Affecting Shoulder Motion”, Studies in Health Technology and Informatics, Volume 272, Pages 135-138, June 2020.
• N. Chatzistefani and J. Herron, “A Pedagogy of Movement: interdisciplinary approaches to human motion”, Exchanges: the Warwick Research Journal, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages 98-105, October 2017.
• N. Chatzistefani, M.J. Chappell, C. Hutchinson, S. Kletzenbauer, N.D. Evans, “A mathematical model characterising Achilles tendon dynamics in flexion”, Mathematical Biosciences, Volume 284, February 2017, Pages 92-102
• N. Chatzistefani, M.J. Chappell, C. Hutchinson, N.D. Evans, “A mathematical model of the Achilles tendon in humans”, IFAC-Papers On Line, Volume 48, Issue 20, 2015, Pages 429-434.