Pertha Odessa High School

Our Faculty

At Pertha Odessa High School, we pride ourselves on attracting world-class educators who are not only experts in their fields but are also passionate mentors dedicated to nurturing student potential. Our staff bring a wealth of international experience, advanced academic qualifications, and innovative teaching methodologies to our classrooms and laboratories.

Dr. Gilles Schmit

Position: Head of Advanced Science & Engineering (ASE) & Professor of Theoretical Physics Education: PhD in Theoretical Physics, ETH Zurich (Switzerland); MSc in Physics, University of Luxembourg; BSc (Hons) in Physics, University of Cambridge (UK). Experience: Dr. Schmit joins POHS after a distinguished career that includes post-doctoral research at CERN and senior teaching positions at leading international schools in Geneva and Singapore. He specialises in quantum mechanics and particle physics, with a keen interest in making complex concepts accessible to high-school students. Teaching Philosophy: “Physics unveils the fundamental score of the universe. My aim is to equip students with the tools to not only read that score but to appreciate its profound elegance and perhaps, one day, add their own notes.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Schmit, G. (2023). ‘Bridging the Quantum Gap: Advanced Particle Physics for Secondary Curricula’. POHS ASE Curriculum Initiative, POHS-ASE-CP-2023-01.
  • Schmit, G. (2019). ‘Simulating Quark-Gluon Plasma in Educational Settings’. Journal of Physics Education, 45(2), pp. 112-128.
  • Contributor (2017). ‘The Standard Model: An Introduction’. Cambridge University Press. (ISBN-13: 978-X-XXX-XXXXX-X – Fictional)

Dr. Petra Dvořáková

Position: Head of Biomedical & Health Sciences (BHS) & Professor of Genetics Education: PhD in Molecular Genetics, Charles University, Prague (Czech Republic); MSc in Biochemistry, University of Vienna (Austria); BSc (Hons) in Biology, Masaryk University (Czech Republic). Experience: Dr. Dvořáková is a recognised researcher in genetic sequencing and its ethical implications. Before transitioning to education, she worked at a leading bioinformatics institute in Germany. She is passionate about integrating real-world biomedical research into the BHS programme. Teaching Philosophy: “Understanding the code of life carries immense responsibility. We must foster both scientific mastery and deep ethical consideration in our future healthcare leaders.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Dvořáková, P. (2024). ‘CRISPR Ethics: A Case-Study Framework for High School Bioethics’. POHS BHS Ethics Module, POHS-BHS-EM-2024-03.
  • Dvořáková, P. & Müller, H. (2020). ‘Rapid-Sequencing Protocols for Educational Laboratories’. Journal of Biological Methods, 7(4), pp. 55-68.
  • Presenter (2018). ‘Integrating Genomics into Secondary Science’. International Conference on Science Education, Helsinki.

Dr. Zoran Petrović

Position: Head of Global Leadership & Policy Studies (GLPS) & Professor of International Relations Education: PhD in International Relations, London School of Economics (UK); MA in Political Science, University of Zagreb (Croatia); BA in History, Central European University (Hungary). Experience: Dr. Petrović has served as a policy advisor and analyst for several NGOs and international bodies, focusing on post-conflict resolution and global governance. His experience brings invaluable real-world context to the GLPS programme, particularly in Model UN and debate. Teaching Philosophy: “To lead globally, one must first understand globally. We cultivate critical perspectives, empathetic reasoning, and the courage to engage with the world’s most pressing challenges.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Petrović, Z. (2022). ‘Global Governance Simulation Handbook’. POHS GLPS Resource, POHS-GLPS-SH-2022-05.
  • Petrović, Z. (2018). ‘The Role of NGOs in Peacekeeping Operations’. Journal of International Affairs, 62(1), pp. 78-95.
  • Petrović, Z. (2015). ‘Balkan Transitions: A Political History’. LSE Press. (ISBN-13: 978-X-XXX-XXXXX-X – Fictional)

Linas Kazlauskas

Position: Head of Computational Thinking & Artificial Intelligence (CTAI) Education: MSc in Computer Science (AI Specialisation), University of Tartu (Estonia); BSc (Hons) in Software Engineering, Vilnius University (Lithuania). Experience: Mr. Kazlauskas is an expert in machine learning and natural language processing, having worked as a lead developer for an AI start-up in Tallinn before moving into education. He champions project-based learning and ethical AI development within the CTAI pathway. Teaching Philosophy: “AI is not just code; it’s a new frontier of thought and ethics. Our students must become not only proficient builders but also conscientious architects of this future.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Kazlauskas, L. (2023). ‘Project-Based AI: From Concept to Deployment for High-Achievers’. POHS CTAI Programme Guide, POHS-CTAI-PG-2023-11.
  • Kazlauskas, L. & Ivanov, A. (2020). ‘Developing Ethical Frameworks for Student AI Projects’. Proceedings of the IEEE Conference on AI in Education, pp. 345-352.
  • Lead Developer (2018). ‘LinguaBot v3.0 Natural Language Interface’. Tech Innovations Ltd.

Sofia Magalhães

Position: Head of Digital Media & Creative Innovation (DMCI) Education: MA in Digital Media Arts, University of the Arts London (UK); BA (Hons) in Communication Design, University of Lisbon (Portugal). Experience: Ms. Magalhães is an award-winning digital artist and designer with extensive experience in interactive media and branding for international clients. She brings a powerful blend of artistic vision and industry know-how to the DMCI programme, focusing on portfolio development and creative entrepreneurship. Teaching Philosophy: “Creativity thrives at the intersection of imagination and technology. We empower students to find their unique voice and master the digital tools to amplify it.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Magalhães, S. (2024). ‘The Digital Portfolio: A Guide to Curating Creative Work’. POHS DMCI Handbook, POHS-DMCI-HB-2024-02.
  • Exhibitor (2021). ‘Interactive Narratives’. Ars Electronica Festival, Linz.
  • Designer (2019). ‘Global Brands Reimagined’. Lisbon Design Week.

Dr. Ivan Kováč

Position: Head of Energy & Environmental Systems (EES) & Professor of Environmental Science Education: PhD in Environmental Engineering, Delft University of Technology (Netherlands); MSc in Sustainable Energy Systems, Comenius University, Bratislava (Slovakia); BSc (Hons) in Geology, Charles University (Czech Republic). Experience: Dr. Kováč has worked on major renewable energy projects across Europe and has consulted on environmental impact assessments. His research focuses on energy policy and sustainable resource management, providing the EES programme with critical, timely expertise. Teaching Philosophy: “Our energy future and environmental health are intertwined. My goal is to foster a systems-thinking approach, enabling students to devise innovative and sustainable solutions.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Kováč, I. (2023). ‘West Texas Energy Futures: A Systems Analysis’. POHS EES Research Project, POHS-EES-RP-2023-08.
  • Kováč, I. & van der Berg, M. (2019). ‘Assessing the Lifecycle Impact of Grid-Scale Solar Installations’. Journal of Sustainable Energy, 15(3), pp. 210-225.
  • Policy Brief (2017). ‘EU Renewable Energy Directives & Implementation Challenges’. Brussels Environmental Forum.

Maret Väljaots

Position: Head of Mathematics Department & Professor of Applied Mathematics Education: MSc in Applied Mathematics, University of Helsinki (Finland); BSc (Hons) in Mathematics & Statistics, University of Tartu (Estonia). Experience: Ms. Väljaots has taught advanced mathematics in international baccalaureate programmes across Scandinavia. She specialises in mathematical modelling and its applications in finance and engineering, and she is passionate about fostering a love for problem-solving. Teaching Philosophy: “Mathematics is the universal language of logic and pattern. We strive to make every student fluent, confident, and creative in its application.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Väljaots, M. (2022). ‘Calculus for Innovators: Real-World Applications’. POHS Mathematics Curriculum Enhancement, POHS-MATH-CE-2022-07.
  • Presenter (2018). ‘Teaching Abstract Algebra through Visualisation’. Nordic Congress of Mathematicians, Stockholm.

Eleni Kyprianou

Position: Head of English Language & Literature Education: MA in Comparative Literature, University College London (UK); BA (Hons) in English Literature & Classics, University of Cyprus. Experience: Ms. Kyprianou has a rich background in teaching English literature and rhetoric in diverse international settings, including Athens and London. She focuses on developing critical reading skills and sophisticated argumentative writing, encouraging students to engage with a global canon of literature. Teaching Philosophy: “Through stories, we explore the human condition. We learn to read deeply, write clearly, and think critically, engaging in the great conversation across cultures and time.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Kyprianou, E. (2023). ‘The Global Canon: Expanding Literary Horizons’. POHS English Curriculum Review, POHS-ENG-CR-2023-09.
  • Editor (2019). ‘Cypriot Voices: An Anthology of Modern Poetry’. Nicosia Press. (ISBN-13: 978-X-XXX-XXXXX-X – Fictional)

Dr. Agata Zielińska

Position: Professor of Chemistry (ASE & BHS Pathways) Education: PhD in Organic Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Kraków (Poland); MSc (Hons) in Chemistry, University of Warsaw (Poland). Experience: Dr. Zielińska completed post-doctoral research in medicinal chemistry at the University of Heidelberg before dedicating herself to teaching. She excels in designing engaging laboratory experiences and linking chemical principles to real-world innovations. Teaching Philosophy: “Chemistry is the central science, the bridge between physics and biology. Understanding its principles unlocks the ability to build and innovate at the molecular level.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Zielińska, A. (2021). ‘Novel Synthesis Pathways for Educational Labs’. Chemical Education Research and Practice, 22(4), pp. 815-829.
  • Patent Contributor (2017). ‘Process for Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Compounds’. (Fictional Patent No. EP XXXXXX).

Jānis Ozoliņš

Position: Professor of History & Economics (GLPS Pathway) Education: MPhil in Economic and Social History, University of Oxford (UK); BA (Hons) in History, University of Latvia. Experience: Mr. Ozoliņš worked as an archivist and researcher at the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia before pursuing further studies and teaching. He specialises in 20th-century European history and the economics of transition, employing primary source analysis in his teaching. Teaching Philosophy: “History and economics are not just past events or figures; they are the forces that shape our present and future. We must learn to analyse them critically to navigate our world.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Ozoliņš, J. (2020). ‘Using Archival Data in the High School History Classroom’. POHS GLPS Teaching Module, POHS-GLPS-TM-2020-06.
  • Ozoliņš, J. (2016). ‘Economic Shock Therapy in the Baltics: A Reassessment’. Journal of Baltic Studies, 47(3), pp. 359-378.

Dr. Saviour Mifsud

Position: Professor of Biology (BHS Pathway) Education: PhD in Marine Biology, University of Malta; MSc in Environmental Science, University of Aberdeen (UK); BSc (Hons) in Biology & Chemistry, University of Malta. Experience: Dr. Mifsud’s research background is in marine ecosystems and biodiversity conservation. He has taught AP Biology and Environmental Science in Italy and the UAE, bringing a strong ecological and conservationist perspective to the BHS programme. Teaching Philosophy: “From the smallest cell to the largest ecosystem, biology reveals the intricate web of life. We explore this web to understand our place within it and our responsibility towards it.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Mifsud, S. (2019). ‘Impacts of Microplastics on Mediterranean Benthic Communities’. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 142, pp. 115-123.
  • Curriculum Developer (2021). ‘Advanced Topics in Ecology for AP Biology’. International School Curriculum Group.

Eszter Nagy

Position: Professor of World Languages (Spanish & French) Education: MA in Romance Philology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest (Hungary); BA (Hons) in Spanish and French Studies, Pázmány Péter Catholic University (Hungary). Experience: Ms. Nagy is a highly experienced language educator, having taught advanced Spanish and French immersion courses in Hungary and Spain. She employs communicative and task-based learning approaches, integrating cultural studies into language acquisition. Teaching Philosophy: “To learn a language is to gain another soul. We immerse students in language and culture, opening doors to new worlds and deeper human connection.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Nagy, E. (2022). ‘Task-Based Learning Modules for Advanced French Grammar’. POHS World Languages Initiative, POHS-WL-FR-2022-04.
  • Translator (2017). ‘Selected Works of Sándor Márai’ (Hungarian to Spanish). Libros del Asteroide. (Fictional).

Dr. Nikolay Dimitrov

Position: Professor of Engineering & Robotics (ASE Pathway) Education: PhD in Mechatronics, Technical University of Sofia (Bulgaria); MSc in Electrical Engineering, Technical University of Munich (Germany); BEng (Hons) in Automation, Technical University of Sofia. Experience: Dr. Dimitrov worked as an R&D engineer in the German automotive industry, specialising in sensor fusion and autonomous systems, before finding his passion in education. He leads the POHS robotics team and focuses on hands-on design and build projects. Teaching Philosophy: “Engineering is applied creativity. We challenge students to design, build, test, and iterate, transforming theoretical knowledge into tangible, working solutions.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Dimitrov, N. (2023). ‘Advanced VEX Robotics: Strategy & Design’. POHS ASE Robotics Manual, POHS-ASE-RB-2023-15.
  • Dimitrov, N. & Schmidt, K. (2018). ‘Sensor Fusion Algorithms for Autonomous Driving’. SAE International Journal of Vehicle Dynamics, Stability, and NVH, 2(1), pp. 45-58.

Dr. Mojca Novak

Position: Professor of Psychology & Social Studies Education: PhD in Social Psychology, University of Ljubljana (Slovenia); MA in Sociology, University of Graz (Austria); BA (Hons) in Psychology, University of Ljubljana. Experience: Dr. Novak has conducted research on cross-cultural communication and social identity. She has taught Psychology and Sociology at the pre-university level in Slovenia and Austria and is skilled at guiding students through research methods in the social sciences. Teaching Philosophy: “Understanding ourselves and our societies requires both empathy and rigorous analysis. We explore the complexities of human behaviour to foster more insightful and compassionate citizens.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Novak, M. (2021). ‘Cultural Identity in a Globalised World: Youth Perspectives’. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 52(5), pp. 430-445.
  • Author (2019). ‘Introduction to Social Research Methods: A High School Guide’. Ljubljana University Press. (ISBN-13: 978-X-XXX-XXXXX-X – Fictional).

Dr. Anca Popescu

Position: University & Careers Counsellor Education: EdD in Educational Leadership, University of Southern California (USA); MEd in School Counselling, University of Toronto (Canada); MA in English, University of Bucharest (Romania). Experience: Dr. Popescu brings extensive experience in guiding students through the complex landscape of global university admissions. She has worked as a counsellor in prestigious international schools in Canada and the Middle East and has deep knowledge of US, UK, Canadian, and European university systems. Teaching Philosophy: “Our role is to help students discover their passions and navigate the path towards a fulfilling future. We provide personalised guidance, empowering them to make informed and ambitious choices.” Selected Publications & Contributions:

  • Popescu, A. (2022). ‘Navigating Global University Applications: A POHS Guide’. POHS Counselling Publication, POHS-COUN-UG-2022-01.
  • Presenter (2020). ‘Supporting Third-Culture Kids in University Transitions’. International Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC) Conference.