BioOptics Professors and Supervisors

Laura HalbachView profile

Researcher

Max Planck Institute for Marine MicrobiologyGermany

Laura Halbach is a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology, working within the Department of Biogeochemistry led by Prof. Dr. Marcel Kuypers. Her work focuses on microbial interactions, primary production, and nutrient cycling in diverse aquatic ecosystems ranging from tropical coastal habitats to polar fjords and glacier surfaces. Current research emphasizes N₂-fixing microbes (diazotrophs) in seagrass meadows (Posidonia oceanica, Cymodocea nodosa, Thalassia testudinum) Utilizes chemical, molecular, and single-cell imaging techniques (SIMS, SEM-EDS) Active in promoting research integrity as an institute Ombudsman Her studies address biogeochemical processes impacting climate regulation through carbon and nitrogen cycling. Key areas include: Glacier surface microbial communities and albedo reduction Marine nitrogen fixation and plant-microbe symbiosis Polar and tropical ecosystem nutrient dynamics Her publications reveal a focus on cryospheric microbiology, polar food webs, and imaging-based ecosystem analyses. Laura also contributes to teaching in the MarMic Master's program.

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Ioana Andreea BrezesteanView profile

Researcher

National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular TechnologiesRomania

Dr. Ioana Andreea Brezestean is a Scientific Researcher III (R2 rank) at the National Institute for Research and Development in Isotopic and Molecular Technologies (Cluj-Napoca, Romania). She holds a PhD in Physics (2022) and Master's degrees in Medical Physics (2013, 2015) from Babeș-Bolyai University . Her work focuses on nanomaterial synthesis , SERS substrate development , and environmental/health monitoring through advanced spectroscopic techniques. Current projects include NanedisSERS (bioinspired 3D nanoplatforms for neurodegenerative disease diagnostics) and AL-DIBI SERS (Alzheimer's biomarker detection using gold nanourchins). Her expertise spans nanoparticle fabrication (silver/gold), microfluidic sensor design , and multi-modal characterization (Raman, FT-Raman, SERS, TERS, microscopy). She contributes to eco-friendly nanocomposite development in projects like ECONANO4AUTO (bio-PA materials with chicken feather derivatives). Key collaborations include SINTEF AS (Norway), University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Iuliu Hațieganu' , and NANOM MEMS SRL . Her methodology integrates DFT calculations , quantum chemistry modeling , and statistical pattern recognition for pathogen resistance analysis.

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Leah SpanglerView profile

Researcher

Virginia Commonwealth UniversityUnited States

Leah Spangler is affiliated with Virginia Commonwealth University, where she contributes to advanced research in biochemistry and materials science. Her work bridges biological systems with nanotechnology, focusing on sustainable synthesis of semiconductor materials and innovative biomaterials. Research Interests: Spangler's research spans multiple disciplines, emphasizing Protein-engineered quantum dots and nanocrystals Biomineralization mechanisms for controllable material synthesis Green chemistry approaches to nanomaterial manufacturing Applications of biomaterials in optoelectronics and healthcare Scientific Trends: Analysis of her recent publications reveals expertise in bioinspired synthesis, light-harvesting protein dynamics, and leveraging microbial systems for metal nanoparticle extraction. Her work aligns with sustainable technologies and biohybrid material development.

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Susanne Menden-DeuerView profile

Professor

University of Rhode IslandUnited States

Dr. Susanne Menden-Deuer is a Professor at the Graduate School of Oceanography, University of Rhode Island, where she has been faculty since 2008. She is a seagoing oceanographer specializing in marine planktonic food web dynamics, combining fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and theoretical modeling. Education Ph.D. in Oceanography, University of Washington (2004) M.Sc. in Oceanography, University of Washington (1998) Diplom Biologie, University of Bonn, Germany (1996) Her research explores linkages between microscopic events (e.g., predator movements) and macroscopic phenomena (e.g., phytoplankton production). She focuses on primary production, phytoplankton mortality, plankton behavior, and dispersal in temperate and polar oceans. Dr. Menden-Deuer has held visiting positions at the University of New South Wales and served on editorial boards of oceanographic publications and the ASLO Board of Directors. She actively promotes diversity in marine science through mentoring programs like MIMSUP and science communication initiatives. Scientific Awards Research Fellow at Princeton University She mentors students through programs such as the National Ocean Science Bowl and the Metcalf Institute for Marine and Environmental Reporting. Her lab integrates field data, physiological experiments, and mathematical models to study marine ecosystems.

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Andrew CittadineView profile

Adjunct Professor

Northwestern UniversityUnited States

Andrew Cittadine is an Adjunct Professor at the McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, affiliated with the Farley Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. He holds a BS and MS from Stanford University and an MBA from Northwestern University. Professionally, he serves as COO at Monopar Therapeutics Inc. and is a co-founder of MATTER, a healthcare innovation hub. Previously, he was CEO of Diagnostic Photonics, Inc. and American BioOptics, demonstrating expertise in medical technology and entrepreneurship. His academic contributions include teaching NUvention: Medical , a course focused on medical innovation. His research interests span biomedical engineering, healthcare technology commercialization, and strategic leadership in biotechnology sectors. Though no specific grants or awards are listed, his industry roles highlight impactful contributions to medical entrepreneurship and technology development.

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Malin PremaratneView profile

Professor

Monash UniversityAustralia

Professor Malin Premaratne is a Full Professor and Vice President of the Academic Board at the Department of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering, Monash University. His research focuses on quantum device theory, quantum engineering, and plasmonics, with over 250 journal publications and two books. He holds prestigious fellowships from IEEE, Optica, SPIE, and other institutions. Education: BSc (Mathematics), BE (Electrical Engineering), PhD (Photonics/Optics) from the University of Melbourne, and a Graduate Certificate in Higher Education from Monash University. Research Interests: Quantum Mechanics, Quantum Electrodynamics, Optical Physics, NanoOptics, Computational Biology, and Functional Materials. His work bridges theoretical physics and engineering, leading to innovations in quantum devices like spasers and transistors. Grants and Funding: Secured over $10M in ARC funding, leading projects such as Photonic Computing Architecture Validator and Lattice Panel Based Optical Apertures for Optical Wireless Networks. Supervised over 75 PhD students. External Roles: Visiting Professorial Fellow at the University of Melbourne, Distinguished Visiting Scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and Visiting Researcher at institutions including UC Berkeley and Oxford. Editorial Contributions: Associate Editor for IEEE Photonics Technology Letters, OSA Advances in Optics, and advisory roles for APL Quantum. Active in professional societies including the IEEE Photonics Society.

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Zsuzsa MárkaView profile

Researcher

Columbia UniversityUnited States

Zsuzsa Márka is an Associate Research Scientist at the Columbia Astrophysics Laboratory and a Lecturer in Physics at Columbia University's Faculty of Arts and Sciences. She plays a pivotal role in the LIGO project, which achieved the first direct detection of gravitational waves in 2016. Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Columbia University Columbia Astrophysics Laboratory Columbia Experimental Gravity Group Columbia BioOptics Group Her research encompasses gravitational-wave detection, multimessenger astrophysics, and innovative applications of optical/acoustic technologies to combat disease-transmitting vectors and neurodegenerative diseases. She actively bridges physics research with interdisciplinary collaborations in bioengineering and education. Márka champions science education equity, engaging urban schools and organizing outreach events to inspire young minds and address disparities in STEM fields. Her work emphasizes early-age scientific curriculum as a tool for fostering inclusivity in science professions. She contributes to advancing LIGO and KAGRA timing systems, critical for gravitational-wave data acquisition, while integrating biooptics into novel disease prevention strategies. Her interdisciplinary approach spans gravitational astrophysics, high-energy neutrino detection, and biomedical research.

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Jan Willem HesselinkView profile

Professor

Utrecht UniversityNetherlands

Prof. Jan Willem Hesselink is a Professor of Topreferral Health Care of Companion Animals at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. He holds dual roles as Chair of the Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals (2014–2017) and a member of the Faculty Board (2012–2016). His career spans academic leadership, clinical practice, and research in veterinary oncology and reproductive sciences. He obtained his DVM from Utrecht University in 1980 and completed a PhD on pseudopregnancy in goats (1994). He pioneered the application of ultrasonography in equine and ruminant reproduction and co-founded the BioOptical Imaging Center Groningen. His research focuses on comparative medicine, optical imaging in oncology, and translational therapies like radioactive holmium microspheres. He has secured over €17M in external funding and supervised 19 PhD students. Education: DVM (Utrecht, 1980), PhD (Utrecht, 1994) Professional Roles: Board-certified in equine reproduction, European College of Animal Reproduction (ECAR) founding diplomate Research: Oncology, optical imaging, reproductive health, and translational medicine Scientific Contributions: Over 50 peer-reviewed papers, including work on radiation therapy for companion animals and veterinary imaging. Key projects include the NWO-funded holmium-166 microsphere therapy for brain tumors and radiation safety guidelines for feline hyperthyroidism. Awards: ECAR Founding Diplomate (2000), Specialist certifications in equine reproduction and bovine herd health. Advising & Grants: Supervised 19 PhD students; current advisor to 9. Secured €17M+ in grants, including NWO-TTW for translational oncology projects. Labs/Teams: Collaborates with Radboud UMC, TU Delft, and UMC Utrecht on imaging and oncology projects. Leads the Utrecht University Cancer Center and the BioOptical Imaging initiative.

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Sacha ViqueratView profile

Researcher

Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine ResearchGermany

M.Sc. Sacha Viquerat is a biologist and researcher at the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) in Bremerhaven, Germany. He specializes in geophysics and contributes to polar and marine research focusing on oceanographic processes, climate dynamics, and benthic ecology. His work involves field expeditions, data analysis, and collaboration on projects related to Arctic and Antarctic environments. Affiliated with the Geophysics department under the Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research. Participates in long-term observations and oceanographic modeling initiatives. Involved in projects studying particle flows, climate-relevant gases, and sediment dynamics. Research interests include marine biogeochemistry, seabed ecosystems, and the impacts of climate change on polar regions. He collaborates on international expeditions using advanced technologies like autonomous underwater vehicles and biooptical sensors.

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Jutta KunzView profile

Professor

Carl von Ossietzky University of OldenburgGermany

Jutta Kunz is a Professor of Theoretical Physics at the University of Oldenburg, holding this position since 1993 with primary research in gravity and relativistic astrophysics. She currently chairs the DFG Research Training Group 'Models of Gravity', emphasizing gender equality and attracting international early-career researchers. Her core research interests include: Gravity theory and relativistic astrophysics Black hole and neutron star dynamics Wormhole physics and hypothetical objects Field theory applications Analysis of the provided Google Scholar articles (2020-2025) reveals a distinct ecological research focus on biodiversity-stability relationships, disturbance responses, and nutrient cycling—contrasting sharply with her institutional physics profile. This discrepancy suggests potential data contamination or undisclosed interdisciplinary work, though no institutional text references ecological research. As chair of the Research Training Group, she mentors graduate students globally in gravity modeling while leading an active research group. Her team prioritizes gender equality in recruitment and collaborates internationally on gravitational models.

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