Find Academic Supervisors

Bart J. KooiView profile

Professor

• Materials Science
• Nanomaterials
• Transmission Electron Microscopy
• +3 more

Bart J. Kooi is a Professor at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Science and Engineering, leading the Nanostructured Materials and Interfaces research group within the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials. With extensive expertise in advanced electron microscopy, he manages state-of-the-art facilities where his team achieved the historic first imaging of hydrogen atoms in metal hydrides. His research spans nanostructured materials and interfaces, with core interests in transmission electron microscopy, phase-change materials, chalcogenides, and metal hydrides. The fingerprint analysis of his work reveals strong concentrations in Thin Films (100%), Nanoparticles (64%), Transmission Electron Microscopy (44%), and Phase-Change Materials (38%). His work demonstrates significant industry collaboration with NXP, Micron Technologies, ST Microelectronics, Photonis, Tata Steel and IBM. Analysis of his recent publications shows consistent focus on atomic-scale characterization of functional materials, particularly using advanced electron microscopy techniques to study phase transitions, oxygen migration in ferroelectrics, and nanoscale precipitation phenomena. His work bridges fundamental materials science with applications in memory devices, neuromorphic computing, and additive manufacturing. Ovshinsky Lectureship Award 2021 for outstanding contribution to Ovonic Science and Technology Chairman of E\PCOS (European Phase Change and Ovonic Sciences) Program Committee since 2016 Extensive research collaborations with major industrial partners including IBM and semiconductor manufacturers Professor Kooi supervises numerous graduate students (28 supervised works documented) and leads advanced electron microscopy facilities at Groningen. His research group actively develops new techniques like integrated differential phase contrast in aberration-corrected STEM, enabling breakthroughs in imaging light elements. Current projects focus on in-situ electrical biasing experiments, nanoscale carbide precipitation, and neuromorphic material systems.

Peijun ZhangView profile

Professor

• Structural Biology
• Cryo-Electron Microscopy (CryoEM)
• Cryo-Electron Tomography (CryoET)
• +12 more

Peijun Zhang is a leading structural biologist and Professor at the University of Oxford, affiliated with the Nuffield Department of Medicine and the Structural Biology Laboratory (STRUBI). She serves as the Director of the Electron Bio-Imaging Centre (eBIC) at Diamond Light Source, where she leads a world-class cryo-EM and cryo-ET facility. Her research group focuses on the structural mechanisms of human pathogens, particularly HIV-1 and bacterial signaling systems. Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in Molecular Biophysics from the University of Virginia, an M.S. in Physics, and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Nanjing University. She completed postdoctoral training at the National Cancer Institute and was previously faculty at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Dr. Zhang's research integrates cutting-edge cryo-electron microscopy and tomography with biochemical, biophysical, and computational methods to study large macromolecular complexes in situ . Her work spans HIV-1 capsid assembly and nuclear import, host-pathogen interactions, bacterial chemotaxis arrays, and chromatin architecture. She is deeply involved in method development, including software like emClarity for subtomogram averaging and advanced cryo-FIB/SEM techniques. Her recent publications (2020–2025) demonstrate a strong trend in in situ structural biology, capturing transient viral and cellular processes at high resolution. Themes include viral entry, capsid dynamics, chromatin organization, and correlative imaging, reflecting her leadership in pushing the boundaries of 3D electron microscopy. She has received several scientific awards, including: Carnegie Science Emerging Female Scientist Award Senior Vice Chancellor’s Award U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 'On-the-Spot' Award Dr. Zhang actively mentors a research team including postdoctoral associates and PhD students. She leads the Oxford Particle Imaging Centre (OPIC), a BSL-3 facility, and secures major funding for advanced instrumentation and research. Her work bridges fundamental science and translational applications in virology and infectious disease. She is associated with key facilities such as eBIC and OPIC, which provide cutting-edge cryo-EM access to the scientific community. Her lab continues to pioneer new imaging technologies to resolve molecular structures within their native cellular environments.

Sam ClarkView profile

Research Fellow

• Cryo-Electron Microscopy
• Computational Structural Biology
• Biophysics
• +2 more

Sam Clark is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Electron Bio-Imaging Centre (eBIC) of Diamond Light Source, where he has been working since January 2024. He is a member of Dr. Yuriy Chaban's research group, focusing on innovative computational approaches to enhance cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) data analysis, including particle picking, denoising, 3D reconstruction, and post-processing. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. from the University of Manchester under the supervision of Professor Curtis Dobson, where he investigated antimicrobial peptides using scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, biophysical assays, and machine learning to establish sequence-activity relationships. Following his doctorate, he held a postdoctoral position at the University of York with Professor Reidun Twarock, studying single-stranded virus assembly and RNA-viral protein interactions, during which he also developed data analysis software for laboratory collaborators. Clark's research integrates structural biology, computational methods, and machine learning to tackle complex problems in biological imaging. His current work aims to improve the efficiency and accuracy of cryo-EM data processing pipelines, which are critical for high-resolution structural determination of macromolecular complexes. As part of the eBIC team at Diamond Light Source, he contributes to the center's mission of providing world-leading cryo-EM infrastructure and expertise to the scientific community.

Thomas FrosioView profile

Researcher

• Structural Biology
• Biological Imaging
• Cryo-electron Tomography
• +4 more

Thomas Frosio is a Researcher at the electron Bio-Imaging Centre (eBIC) at Diamond Light Source, where he joined in March 2025. His expertise centers on advancing cryo-electron tomography (cryoET) methodologies for high-resolution biological imaging. Education: DPhil in Structural Biology, University of Oxford, completed in Peijun Zhang's laboratory at eBIC Research Focus: Thomas specializes in computational aspects of cryoET, developing algorithms for motion-correction to mitigate sample drift, precise tilt-series alignment for 3D reconstruction, and CTF estimation to correct electron microscope distortions. His work bridges structural biology and computational imaging, enabling atomic-level visualization of cellular machinery. Professional Context: As part of Diamond Light Source's eBIC team, he contributes to the UK's national synchrotron facility at Harwell Campus, supporting cutting-edge research in life sciences through advanced bio-imaging infrastructure and expertise.

• Materials Science
• Mechanical Behavior of Materials
• Phase Transformations
• +10 more

Professor Ian Baker is the Sherman Fairchild Professor of Engineering and Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College. He leads interdisciplinary research in materials science with a focus on energy systems, magnetic materials, and the mechanical behavior of alloys and ice structures. Department: Engineering Sciences Key Affiliations: Ice Research Laboratory, AAAS Fellow, TMS Fellow His research spans phase transformations in high-entropy alloys, electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and the microstructure of snow and ice. Recent work explores additive manufacturing of Mn-Al permanent magnets and sustainable energy materials like oxide solar absorbers. His publications highlight collaborations with PhD students and postdocs in areas such as magnetic hyperthermia and biomaterials. Awards include AAAS, TMS, and ASM International fellowships, alongside recognition in the ISI high-cited scientists list.

Didier BlavetteView profile

Professor

• Materials Science
• Atomic-Scale Microscopy
• Phase Transformations
• +2 more

Prof. Didier Blavette is a faculty member at Normandie University , affiliated with the Institut des Matériaux de Rouen . His research focuses on atomic-scale materials characterization , particularly through Atom-Probe Tomography (APT) and its integration with kinetic Monte-Carlo simulations . Developed laser-enhanced APT for semiconductors/oxides (2006) First to visualize Cottrell atmospheres at atomic-scale (1999) Explored precipitation kinetics in ternary systems and nickel-based superalloys His work bridges experimental APT and analytical modeling , enabling precise microstructural analysis relevant to microelectronics and nanostructured materials . Publications emphasize non-classical nucleation , diffusion coupling , and 3D reconstruction techniques. Blavette leads the Groupe de Physique des Matériaux (UMR CNRS 6634) , advancing correlative microscopy methods. His team has pioneered applications in self-organized magnetic thin films and precipitate evolution studies.

Jan Pieter AbrahamsView profile

Professor

• Structural Biology
• Electron Microscopy
• Protein Crystallography
• +5 more

Jan Pieter Abrahams is a Professor and Group Leader of the Nanodiffraction group at the Laboratory for Multiscale Bioimaging, Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland. His work focuses on developing electron diffraction technologies for atomic-resolution imaging of frozen hydrated biological samples, leveraging PSI's detector expertise to advance structural biology beyond conventional microscopy limitations. Current applications target mitochondrial stress mechanisms in neurodegeneration and aging, with active collaborations across international institutions. Research Interests: Abrahams pioneers electron diffraction and cryo-EM methodologies, emphasizing computational-phasing innovations and machine learning integration. His group specializes in: Overcoming dynamical scattering for atomic-level cellular visualization Hybrid pixel detector applications (JUNGFRAU, EIGER) in electron microscopy Deep learning frameworks for diffraction data processing (e.g., DiffraGAN) Structural analysis of protein nanocrystals in disease contexts Mitochondrial protease mechanisms in aging Bacterial cell division and sporulation structures Publication Trends: Recent work (2020–2024) reveals heavy emphasis on AI-driven structural biology, including generative networks for diffraction phasing and lossless data compression. Instrumentation advancements (e.g., Boersch phase shifters) and disease-focused studies (Alzheimer’s amyloid-beta, malaria heme processing) dominate, showcasing interdisciplinary convergence of physics, computation, and biomedicine. Scientific Awards: No specific awards or fellowships documented in source text Advising and Collaborations: Abrahams has mentored PhD students including Thakkar, Pooja; Rheinberger, Jan; Schärer, Martin; and Wennmacher, Julian. His team collaborates with PSI's detector group on sensor development (GaAs/CdTe) and international labs for structural studies. Funding likely stems from PSI instrumentation projects and disease-focused research initiatives. Labs and Teams: He directs the Nanodiffraction group under PSI's Center for Life Sciences, comprising scientists (van Genderen, Latychevskaia) and postdocs (Blum). The lab integrates cryo-EM, electron diffraction, and computational modeling to visualize cellular processes at nanometer scales, with strong ties to detector engineering and pharmaceutical structural analysis.

• Biomedical Materials
• Cell-Material Interactions
• Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
• +9 more

José Carlos Rodriguez-Hernandez is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Thermodynamics at the Technical University of Valencia, Spain. He is currently serving as a Fellow-in-Residence at CY AS (CY Advanced Studies), hosted by the ERRMEc Laboratory, where he contributes to interdisciplinary research on cell microenvironmental parameters. His research focuses on understanding how physical and chemical surface properties influence cell behavior in vitro. Key areas of investigation include surface topography at micro- and nanoscales, surface chemistry (particularly hydrophilicity versus hydrophobicity), and mechanical characteristics such as stiffness and viscoelasticity. These factors are critical in selecting appropriate materials for biomedical applications, including implants and tissue engineering scaffolds. Dr. Rodriguez-Hernandez employs Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) as a primary tool to probe and quantify these microenvironmental parameters. AFM allows high-resolution imaging and nanomechanical testing, enabling precise assessment of how cells respond to different substrates. His work bridges thermodynamics, materials science, and cellular biophysics, contributing to the rational design of biomaterials. While no specific publications are listed in the source text, his research direction suggests a strong focus on experimental biophysics and advanced material characterization techniques. The integration of AFM in cell culture studies reflects a trend toward quantitative, mechanics-based approaches in bioengineering. No scientific awards mentioned in the source text. There is no information available about student advising, grants, or funded projects. However, his current Fellowship at CY AS implies active participation in collaborative scientific initiatives and access to advanced research infrastructure. He is affiliated with the ERRMEc Laboratory during his residency at CY AS, which likely supports experimental work in materials and biological interactions. This temporary lab association complements his home department’s focus on applied thermodynamics, expanding into bio-oriented applications.

Edo BanfiView profile

Researcher

• Photonics
• Semiconductor Nanophysics
• Quantum Dots
• +6 more

Edo Banfi is a Technical Project Officer at the Department of Applied Physics and Science Education , Eindhoven University of Technology , with a focus on semiconductor nanophysics, quantum dots, and advanced microscopy techniques.

• Satellite Gravimetry
• Global Gravity Field Modeling
• Quantum Satellite Missions
• +7 more

Dr. Philipp Zingerle is a researcher at the Chair of Astronomical & Physical Geodesy, Technical University of Munich, where he conducts advanced research in satellite gravimetry, global gravity field modeling, and future quantum-based gravity missions. He plays a key role in ESA projects such as MAGIC and QSG4EMT, as well as DFG-funded initiatives NEROGRAV and UPLIFT, contributing to next-generation Earth observation systems. Research Interests: His work focuses on high-resolution gravity field modeling (e.g., XGM series), time-variable gravity, quantum satellite missions, and integration of terrestrial and airborne data. He applies these to improve geoid determination, height systems, and monitoring of mass transport in the Earth system. The recent publications highlight a strong trend toward future quantum gravimetry missions, especially through the MAGIC and NGGM studies, emphasizing constellation design, error modeling, and hydrological applications. There is also sustained work on extending global models to higher spatial resolution (up to d/o 1440 and beyond) and improving regional solutions such as for Antarctica and North America via GRAV-D integration. Scientific Contributions: Lead and co-author of multiple high-impact journal papers on XGM models and satellite gravimetry. Active participant in international symposia including EGU, IUGG, and ESA Living Planet. Contributor to the realization of the International Height Reference System (IHRS). Advising and Research Leadership: He has supervised several bachelor’s and master’s theses, indicating an active role in student mentorship. He collaborates extensively with leading institutions and researchers across Europe and globally. While no formal awards are listed, his involvement in flagship projects underscores recognition in the geodetic community. Labs and Teams: He is embedded in the Satellite Geodesy Research Facility at TUM and contributes to multiple interdisciplinary teams including ESA MAGIC, DFG NEROGRAV, and UPLIFT, working closely with Prof. Roland Pail and other experts in geodesy and Earth observation.

Ben LawsView profile

Research Fellow

• Astrochemistry
• Quantum Chemistry
• Laser Spectroscopy
• +4 more

Dr. Ben Laws is a Research Fellow at the School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales (UNSW), collaborating with the Schmidt and Kable research groups. Prior to joining UNSW in 2020, he spent six years at the Australian National University (ANU) as a Postdoctoral Fellow and PhD student in the Research School of Physics. PhD (ANU, 2018) BSc (Hons 1) (ANU, 2014) BSc (University of Canterbury, 2013) His research focuses on gas-phase studies of radicals and ions using advanced laser spectroscopic techniques such as Velocity Map Imaging (VMI) and Resonantly Enhanced Multi-Photon Ionization (REMPI) . Key areas include Astrochemistry , investigating interstellar molecules like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as candidates for Diffuse Interstellar Bands (DIBs), and Negative Ions , exploring isomerization reactions and atmospheric relevance. Analysis of his recent publications reveals trends in Photoelectron Imaging , Vibronic Coupling , and Interstellar Chemistry , with a focus on radicals and anions in combustion, atmospheric systems, and astrophysical environments. He supervises PhD student Zachariah Levey, whose work addresses PAH growth mechanisms and DIB carrier identification. Dr. Laws works in Lab 623, Science & Engineering Building (E8), Kensington Campus, UNSW, and can be contacted via b.laws@unsw.edu.au .

Andrey F. VilesovView profile

Professor

• Spectroscopy
• Quantum Fluids
• Superfluid Helium
• +5 more

Andrey F. Vilesov serves as Professor of Chemistry and Physics and Astronomy at the University of Southern California within the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, holding a primary appointment in the Department of Chemistry. His office is located in the Seeley G. Mudd Building (SSC 723), and he maintains an active research profile with publications extending to 2025. His educational background includes: Ph.D. in Physics from St. Petersburg State University (1985) Habilitation (H.D.R.) in Chemical Physics from the University of Göttingen (1999) Vilesov's research pioneers the spectroscopic investigation of quantum systems in superfluid helium environments, specializing in infrared and x-ray techniques to study molecular ions, clusters, and carbocations at near-absolute zero temperatures. His work bridges physical chemistry and quantum physics, focusing on solvation dynamics, ion-molecule reactions, and the structural properties of quantum fluids. The Vilesov Research Group develops advanced methodologies for isolating reactive species in helium nanodroplets, enabling unprecedented observation of transient chemical intermediates. Analysis of his 2022-2025 publications reveals three dominant research thrusts: (1) high-resolution infrared spectroscopy of cationic clusters (e.g., CH 5 + , C 2 H + , water dimer cations), (2) quantum fluid dynamics including vortex formation and phase separation in rotating droplets, and (3) x-ray free electron laser applications for imaging ionization dynamics and nanoplasma evolution. His group consistently advances techniques for generating large, vortex-free helium droplets and characterizing solute aggregation in quantum solvents. The Vilesov Research Group operates specialized cryogenic beam facilities at USC, collaborating with international x-ray laser facilities to probe ultrafast dynamics in quantum systems. Their experimental approach combines molecular beam techniques with advanced spectroscopy to investigate fundamental processes in isolated quantum environments, with implications for astrochemistry, quantum computing, and nanoscale material synthesis.

James M. LeBeauView profile

Professor

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Energy Storage
• +3 more

James LeBeau is the Kyocera Professor in Materials Science and Engineering at MIT, affiliated with the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. He earned a BS from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2006) and a PhD from UC Santa Barbara (2010). His research focuses on developing advanced electron microscopy techniques to study defects and interfaces in materials for quantum computing, energy storage, and optical applications. Key research interests include improving electron microscopy's quantitative capabilities and applying these tools to study ceramics, metals, and semiconductors. He has published over 90 papers and holds a US patent. Notable awards include the Burton Medal (2020) and the Presidential Early Career Award (2019). LeBeau's lab, The LeBeau Group, specializes in cutting-edge microscopy and materials characterization. His work bridges experimental and computational methods, with recent breakthroughs in chalcogenide perovskites and fuel cell electrode engineering.

• Materials Engineering
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Biochemistry and Cell Biology
• +3 more

Dr. Ayman El-Zoka is a Departmental Research Fellow in the Department of Materials at Imperial College London's Faculty of Engineering. His research focuses on leveraging corrosion mechanisms to create functional nanomaterials for advanced catalytic applications, particularly through cryo-atom probe tomography (cryo-APT). He earned his PhD from the University of Toronto, specializing in nanoporous metals characterization, and conducted postdoctoral research at the Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung GmbH in Germany, advancing cryo-APT techniques for analyzing liquid/solid interfaces. His expertise spans materials engineering, condensed matter physics, and nanotechnology. Key contributions include developing cryo-APT methodologies for studying frozen liquid-solid interfaces and creating cost-efficient nanoporous catalysts. Current research integrates high-resolution cryo-APT with catalytic material development. Dr. El-Zoka's work bridges interdisciplinary engineering challenges, such as improving electrochemical CO reduction and magnetocaloric materials for energy applications. He has published extensively on atom probe tomography applications, nanoporous metal synthesis, and material degradation mechanisms.

Massimiliano GaleazziView profile

Professor

• Astrophysics
• X-ray Astronomy
• Cosmic Web
• +5 more

Massimiliano Galeazzi is a Professor and Chairman of the Department of Physics at the University of Miami's College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on X-ray astronomy, cosmic web structures, and intergalactic medium studies. He leads missions like the Diffuse X-ray Background (DXL) sounding rocket and contributes to projects such as the Hitomi (ASTRO-H) satellite. His work includes analyzing XMM-Newton and eROSITA data to detect Warm Hot Intergalactic Medium (WHIM) emission and studying the Milky Way's circumgalactic medium. Galeazzi has pioneered high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy with instruments like the X-ray Quantum Calorimeter (XQC) and the Astro-H Soft X-ray Spectrometer (SXS). His recent publications address unresolved point-source contributions to the diffuse X-ray background and design advancements for X-ray detectors. Research interests span cosmic web dynamics, cluster outskirts, solar wind charge exchange, and the missing baryon problem. His team's findings include first-of-a-kind detections of WHIM emission and constraints on atomic data via Perseus cluster observations. Galeazzi collaborates on future missions like the Line Emission Mapper (LEM), aiming to map the soft X-ray sky at microcalorimeter resolution. Key Projects: DXL, Hitomi, LEM, LXT Instrument Leadership: XQC, SXS calorimeter array Focus Areas: WHIM, CGM, diffuse X-ray background