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Vikramaditya G. Yadav is an Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science. He directs the Master of Engineering Leadership (MEL) Program in Sustainable Process Engineering and leads the BioFoundry research group. Education: B.A.Sc., University of Waterloo (2007) Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2013) Postdoctoral Associate, Harvard University (2014) His research spans sustainable chemical manufacturing, metabolic engineering, and biotechnology. Key areas include: Designing biosynthetic enzymes for biomass valorization Developing bioremediation strategies for industrial water quality Creating innovative drug delivery systems and tissue engineering solutions Advancing synthetic biology for pharmaceutical and bioenergy applications His recent work focuses on ocular drug delivery, cannabinoid biosynthesis in E. coli, lignin-based nanoparticles for cancer therapy, and computational analysis of plant secondary metabolites. Collaborations with start-ups, industry, and medical labs drive innovation in Canada's bioeconomy. Professional Leadership: Chair, Biotechnology Division of the Chemical Institute of Canada Associate Editor, The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering He is affiliated with UBC's BioProducts Institute and contributes to project-based learning pedagogy.

• Biocatalysis
• Bioremediation
• Bioprocess engineering
• +15 more

Kesen Ma is an Associate Professor and Undergraduate Advisor in Biology at the University of Waterloo, specializing in hyperthermophile physiology and enzymology. His research explores metabolic processes at extreme temperatures for biofuel production, with affiliations at the Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology and Waterloo Centre for Microbial Research. His educational background includes: Ph.D. in Microbial Biochemistry from Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany (1989) M.Sc. in Microbiology from Academia Sinica, Taiwan (1984) B.Sc. in Microbiology from Wuhan University, China (1982) Dr. Ma's research spans Microbiology , Biochemistry , and Renewable Energy , focusing on protein thermostability, novel metabolic pathways in extremophiles, and industrial applications of thermostable enzymes. His work bridges fundamental enzymology with practical biocatalysis for pharmaceutical and biofuel industries. Analysis of his 2017-2024 publications reveals consistent focus on alcohol dehydrogenases and pyruvate decarboxylases from thermophiles, emphasizing enzyme characterization, thermostability mechanisms, and high-temperature fermentation systems for ethanol production. His scientific recognition includes: Research Fellow at Max-Planck Institute, Philipps-Universität Marburg (1985) Graduate Scholarship from Academia Sinica, Beijing (1982) As Undergraduate Advisor for Biology, Dr. Ma mentors students while leading patented research on thermostable biocatalysts (US patent 8476051). His work has direct industrial applications in bioethanol production and stereo-specific compound synthesis. He actively collaborates through the Waterloo Centre for Microbial Research, focusing on extremophile enzymology for sustainable bioprocessing solutions.

• Microbiology
• Biochemistry and enzymology
• Protein purification and analysis
• +9 more

Roberto A. Chica is a Full Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Science. His research focuses on computational and experimental protein engineering, particularly in designing novel enzymes and fluorescent proteins for biotechnological applications. He develops advanced algorithms for protein design and investigates enzyme dynamics using molecular modeling and structural biology approaches. Key research interests include biocatalysis, structural biology, and the application of computational methods to engineer proteins with tailored functions. His lab integrates experimental protein chemistry with computational simulations to understand catalytic mechanisms and design proteins for industrial and biomedical uses. Recent work emphasizes ensemble-based computational enzyme design, exploring how conformational landscapes influence catalytic efficiency. His articles highlight advancements in artificial enzyme creation, substrate specificity modulation, and fluorescent protein optimization. Chica’s contributions bridge fundamental biochemistry with applied innovations in protein engineering. Notable achievements include the design of bright red fluorescent proteins via computational approaches and the development of biosensors for protein expression monitoring. His research has implications for drug discovery, biocatalytic synthesis, and personalized medicine.

• Protein Engineering
• Computational Protein Design
• Biocatalysis
• +5 more

Marc Habash is an Associate Professor at the School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph. His work focuses on microbial interactions in environmental systems, particularly pathogen detection, microbial biofilms, and water quality. He holds a BSc in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Toronto, an MSc in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Western Ontario, and a PhD in Environmental Biology from the University of Guelph. Research interests include molecular and culture-based detection of waterborne pathogens, microbial source tracking using Bacteroidales spp., and biofilm formation studies involving probiotics. Collaborative efforts examine proteomic analysis via mass spectrometry techniques. His lab is located in the Edmund C. Bovey Building (Room 3238). Publications emphasize environmental microbiology applications: from yeast tolerance mechanisms to advanced PCR methods for microbial viability quantification. Recent work explores bacterial surface dynamics, insect pest diapause induction, and enzymatic dehalogenation processes. Research consistently bridges fundamental microbiology with practical environmental monitoring solutions. No scientific awards are listed. Advising and grants sections remain unpopulated in available records. His interdisciplinary approach connects environmental engineering, molecular biology, and ecological systems analysis.

• Water Quality
• Microbial Source Tracking
• Waterborne Pathogens
• +3 more

Bishnu Acharya serves as an Associate Professor and Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture Chair in Bioprocess Engineering within the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan. His research program focuses on sustainable conversion of agricultural biomass into high-value products through advanced bioprocessing techniques, addressing critical environmental and energy challenges. His primary research domains include: Cellulose-based biomaterials and nanocomposites for biomedical and packaging applications Thermochemical conversion (pyrolysis, gasification) and biochemical processing of agricultural residues Engineered biochar systems for wastewater remediation and soil enhancement Integration of remote sensing and machine learning for precision agriculture optimization Development of biodegradable materials from flax, wheat straw, and camelina meal Analysis of his 2024-2025 publications reveals a strong interdisciplinary trajectory bridging chemical engineering, environmental science, and agricultural technology. Key thematic clusters involve circular economy implementation in biomass valorization, nanocellulose-based advanced material development, and sustainable wastewater treatment solutions. His work consistently emphasizes practical applications for Canadian agricultural systems, particularly in Saskatchewan and Prince Edward Island contexts. Professional Recognition: Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture Chair in Bioprocess Engineering While specific grant details are not publicly enumerated in available materials, Dr. Acharya's prolific output across high-impact journals indicates substantial research funding and active supervision of graduate students. His collaborations span environmental remediation, advanced materials development, and sustainable agricultural technologies, reflecting a systems-thinking approach to bioresource management. Laboratory infrastructure likely includes biomass processing units, nanomaterial characterization facilities, and bioreactor systems supporting his diverse research portfolio.

• Bioprocess Engineering
• Biomaterials
• Nanocomposites
• +7 more

Dr. Satinder Kaur Brar is a Professor and James and Joanne Love Chair in Environmental Engineering at York University's Department of Civil Engineering. She leads the Inzymes Group and directs the One WATER Institute, focusing on interdisciplinary water sustainability research. Her work emphasizes value-added waste processing, emerging contaminant remediation, and innovative treatment technologies. She has attracted over $15 million in funding and trained 80 highly qualified personnel. Notable contributions include enzyme-based bioremediation, valorization of agricultural residues, and green oxidation methods for contaminants like microplastics and pharmaceuticals. Her research impacts global policies and industry collaborations. Dr. Brar's research interests span bioproduct development from wastewater, fate of emerging contaminants, and interdisciplinary water solutions. She pioneered the Enzyme Booster Technology for oil remediation and enzyme production from cold-active microbes. Collaborations with Quebec municipalities, TechnoRem Inc., and H2O Innovation highlight her applied research focus. Her awards include induction into the European Academy of Sciences and Arts (2021), the WEF Eddy Medal (2019), and multiple ASCE accolades. Over 400 peer-reviewed articles, 8 patents, and 15 edited books reflect her prolific output. The One WATER Institute, under her leadership, addresses global water challenges through collaborative initiatives like the UN Global Water Academy. Key grants and partnerships include funding from NSERC, industry collaborators like Lassonde Inc., and government bodies. Her lab’s work on crude glycerol-to-biofuel conversion and antibiotic-metal complex toxicity further underscores her innovation in sustainable biotechnology.

• Environmental Engineering
• Bioremediation
• Wastewater Treatment
• +6 more

Dr. D. Grant Allen is a Professor and Frank Dottori Chair in Pulp and Paper Engineering at the University of Toronto's Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry (Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering). He serves as Principal Investigator at the Bioprocess Engineering Lab and BioZone research center. His education includes a B.A.Sc. and M.A.Sc. from the University of Toronto, and a Ph.D. from the University of Waterloo. Dr. Allen's research focuses on environmental bioprocess engineering , with emphasis on: Microalgae cultivation for biofuels/chemicals using CO₂ and wastewater Advanced biological wastewater treatment and toxicity reduction Biosolids dewatering using novel bioflocculants and enzymatic methods Bioconversion of waste streams into value-added products Biofilm/floc microbiology and process optimization His publications demonstrate strong interdisciplinary trends in sustainable waste valorization, algal biotechnology, and advanced sludge treatment techniques, with consistent focus on industrial applications in pulp/paper and wastewater sectors. Awards & Honors: Sustained Excellence in Teaching Award (2022) Professor Diran Basmadjian Teacher of the Year Award Fellow: Chemical Institute of Canada, AAAS, Canadian Academy of Engineering, Engineering Institute of Canada LeSuer Memorial Award for Technical Excellence He currently advises graduate students and leads collaborative projects with industry/government partners. As Principal Investigator at BioZone, he coordinates interdisciplinary teams developing bioscience solutions for sustainability. Current projects include photocatalytic wastewater pretreatment and microfluidic carbon capture systems.

• Environmental Bioprocess Engineering
• Biological Wastewater Treatment
• Microalgae Biofuel Production
• +3 more

David Zechel is a Professor of Chemistry in the Department of Chemistry at Queen's University, within the Faculty of Arts and Science. His research focuses on enzyme mechanisms, natural product biosynthesis, and microbial biochemistry. He leads the Zechel Lab, which investigates enzymes and bioactive molecules from environmental sources for applications in bioremediation and drug discovery. Education: Ph.D. in Chemistry and Enzymology (2001, University of British Columbia); B.Sc. in Chemistry and Biochemistry (1995, University of Toronto). He has held postdoctoral positions at York University (UK) and the University of Zürich, and has been at Queen's University since 2004. Research Interests: Enzymatic degradation of organophosphonates; biosynthesis of natural products like nucleocidin and curacozole; roles of c-di-GMP in Streptomyces regulation; and enzyme engineering for biotechnological applications. Publications: Over 50 peer-reviewed articles, including recent work on genome-mining for thermostable enzymes, RiPP biosynthesis, and phosphonate catabolism pathways.

• Enzymology
• Natural Product Biosynthesis
• Organic Chemistry
• +3 more

Dr. Jane Fowler is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Simon Fraser University , specializing in Environmental Microbiology. Her research focuses on water quality, microbial biotechnology, and biological treatment systems, with an emphasis on understanding microbial communities in drinking water and wastewater systems. Education: BSc (Honours) in Biology, University of Calgary, 2007 PhD in Microbiology, University of Calgary, 2014 Research Interests: Ecology and management of microbial communities in engineered systems Biodegradation of pollutants and nutrient cycling Microbial processes in drinking water treatment Recent Highlights: Recipient of NSERC Discovery Grant (2020) and CFI funding (2021) for microbiome research Lead on New Frontiers in Research Fund project (2023) exploring atmospheric microbes Key publications on comammox Nitrospira and microbial community dynamics in biofilters Teaching: Courses include BISC 303 Microbiology and BISC 490 Research Design . Awards: NSERC CREATE grant (2022) for Water and Sanitation training Recipient of SFU's Photo Contest for lab fieldwork imagery

• Environmental Microbiology
• Water Quality
• Microbial Biotechnology
• +3 more

Nediljko Budisa is a Professor and Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Chemical Synthetic Biology and Xenobiology at the University of Manitoba's Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry. His research program focuses on expanding the fundamental biochemical capabilities of living systems through genetic code engineering and synthetic biology approaches. Dr. Budisa's research spans multiple cutting-edge areas in synthetic biology, with particular emphasis on genetic code expansion , non-canonical amino acid incorporation , and protein engineering . His laboratory employs both classical biochemical techniques and advanced computational methods to develop orthogonal translation systems, engineer novel enzymes, and create synthetic cells with expanded biochemical repertoires. His work bridges chemistry, biology, and engineering to address fundamental questions about life processes while developing practical applications in biotechnology and medicine. Analysis of Dr. Budisa's publication record reveals a consistent trajectory of innovation in genetic code engineering, with recent work increasingly integrating machine learning approaches for protein design. His research spans from fundamental studies of protein structure-function relationships to applied research in metabolic engineering and antiviral strategies, demonstrating the versatility of synthetic biology approaches. Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Chemical Synthetic Biology and Xenobiology Dr. Budisa leads an active research program supported by his Canada Research Chair position, with extensive collaborations across Canada and internationally. His work has resulted in numerous patents and commercial applications in biotechnology. He actively participates in the synthetic biology community through initiatives like Prairie iGEM BioExM and has delivered public lectures on methodological challenges in expanded genetic code research. His research is conducted through the Chemical Synthetic Biology and Xenobiology laboratory at the University of Manitoba, where his team explores the social, cultural, educational, ethical and philosophical aspects of synthetic biology alongside technical innovations, reflecting a comprehensive approach to advancing this transformative field.

• Synthetic Biology
• Xenobiology
• Genetic Code Engineering
• +7 more

Geoff Horsman is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Science at Wilfrid Laurier University. His research focuses on understanding enzyme mechanisms, natural products biosynthesis, and biocatalytic applications. Key areas include the study of phosphonate biosynthesis, enediyne antibiotics, and metabolic pathway engineering. He utilizes advanced spectroscopic techniques and computational tools like R for enzyme kinetics analysis. Research interests span diverse topics such as C-P bond formation, nucleotidyl activation in bacterial systems, and novel enzyme discovery. His work often involves heterologous expression systems and synthetic chemistry approaches to study enzymatic processes. Recent studies include the discovery of glyphosate oxidase enzymes and advancements in NAD+ biosynthesis pathways. No specific scientific awards are listed, though his contributions to enzyme mechanism studies and metabolic engineering are notable. Student opportunities are available in his lab, though specific advisee names are not provided. His work bridges fundamental biochemistry with applied biocatalysis and synthetic biology, contributing to both academic and industrial applications.

• Natural Products Biosynthesis
• Enzyme Mechanisms
• Biocatalysis
• +3 more

David Levin is Professor in the Department of Biosystems Engineering at the University of Manitoba's Price Faculty of Engineering. His research integrates microbiology, molecular biology, and bioprocess engineering to develop sustainable applications in biofuel production, biodegradable polymers (PHAs), and microbial degradation of synthetic plastics. Education Ph.D. Virology, McGill University, 1987 M.Sc. Entomology, University of Guelph, 1979 B.Es. Environmental Studies, University of Waterloo, 1977 Research Interests Dr. Levin's work spans bioengineering and biotechnology with focus areas including: Microbial synthesis of biodegradable polymers Enzymatic degradation of petroleum-derived plastics Genomic and proteomic analysis of microbial systems Development of sustainable bioprocesses for industrial applications His research group isolates novel bacteria and enzymes for polymer degradation and engineers microbial systems for renewable material production. Publications Recent publications demonstrate strong emphasis on polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) characterization, microbial plastic degradation, and algal biotechnology. Work includes optimization of fermentation processes, enzyme characterization, and development of biodegradable composites for packaging applications. Laboratory Leads the Biosystems Engineering research group investigating microbial metabolism and biopolymer synthesis under controlled bioreactor conditions.

• Bioengineering
• Biotechnology
• Microbiology
• +9 more

Jan Rainey is a Professor and Director of the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Research Resource (NMR3) at Dalhousie University. She holds affiliations with the Department of Chemistry and the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, under the Faculty of Medicine. Her research focuses on characterizing protein structure and function in environments such as cell membranes and supramolecular assemblies, employing NMR spectroscopy, optical spectroscopy, and computational methods. She has received significant awards including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research New Investigator Award (2012-2017) and multiple NSERC fellowships. Education: BSc (University of Guelph), MSc and PhD (University of Toronto), Postdoctoral Fellowship (University of Alberta). Her work bridges physical and biological chemistry, with emphasis on protein engineering, structural biology, and biomaterials. The NMR3 facility under her direction supports interdisciplinary research in these areas. Research interests include spider silk mechanics, membrane protein interactions, and antimicrobial peptide design. Recent publications highlight advancements in biomaterials, protein dynamics, and GPCR functionality. She leads a team exploring protein structure-function relationships using cutting-edge spectroscopic and biophysical techniques.

• Physical Chemistry
• Biological Chemistry
• Computational Chemistry
• +5 more

Dr. Salwa Karboune is a Professor at McGill University, where she serves as Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and Associate Vice-Principal at the Macdonald Campus. She is also the Scientific Director of the Consortium for Research, Innovation and Transformation of Agrifood. Based at the Macdonald Campus in Montreal, she maintains research offices in the Raymond Building and Food Science facilities in the Macdonald-Stewart Building. Her research focuses on innovative green bioprocesses for developing novel food ingredients and nutraceuticals, with particular emphasis on carbohydrate-active enzymes for synthesizing tailored prebiotic oligosaccharides and functional polysaccharides. She investigates enzymatic cross-linking of proteins with polysaccharides and develops enzyme technology solutions for converting biomass into valuable bioactive products. Her work bridges fundamental enzyme science with practical food applications, addressing challenges in food security and sustainability. Analysis of her publication record reveals consistent research themes centered around enzyme technology (particularly levansucrases), prebiotic synthesis, functional food development, and valorization of agricultural by-products. Her recent work shows increased focus on nanoencapsulation techniques, lactic acid bacteria applications for food preservation, and investigation of plant-based protein peptides with health-promoting properties. The interdisciplinary nature of her research integrates food science, biochemistry, microbiology, and nanotechnology to address contemporary food system challenges. Dr. Karboune's leadership extends beyond her research laboratory, as evidenced by her dual administrative roles overseeing academic programs and research initiatives at McGill's Macdonald Campus. Her position as Scientific Director of the Consortium for Research, Innovation and Transformation of Agrifood demonstrates her commitment to translating scientific discoveries into practical food system innovations. While specific details about her laboratory infrastructure aren't provided in the source material, her extensive publication record suggests a well-equipped research facility supporting multiple graduate students and collaborators working on enzyme technology and food bioprocessing projects.

• Food Science
• Enzyme Technology
• Bioprocessing
• +6 more

Nariman Yousefi serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science at Toronto Metropolitan University. His research focuses on innovative nanomaterial solutions for global water challenges, particularly through the development of graphene-based filtration technologies. Education: PhD, McGill University (2019) MEng, McGill University (2015) BSc, Sharif University of Technology (2009) Yousefi's research centers on graphene and 2D nanomaterials for environmental applications, with emphasis on self-assembled 3D macrostructures that remove contaminants including heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and pathogens. His work bridges environmental nanotechnology and advanced water treatment, creating eco-friendly solutions scalable from household jugs to industrial systems. The Yousefi Lab develops bio-inspired nanomaterials that mimic natural processes for superior contaminant adsorption and degradation. His recent publications demonstrate a clear trajectory toward multifunctional, sustainable water treatment systems, with increasing focus on enzymatic degradation mechanisms, 3D-printed platforms, and point-of-use applications for underserved communities. This research addresses critical gaps in removing emerging contaminants that conventional technologies cannot filter. Scientific Awards: Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship, NSERC C. Ellen Gonter Environmental Chemistry Award, American Chemical Society Relève étoile Louis-Berlinguet Best Researcher Award, FQRNT Eugenie Ulmer-Lamothe Chemical Engineering Award and Lars and Alberta Firing Graduate Fellowship, McGill University As principal investigator of the Yousefi Lab for Self-assembled Nanomaterials, he mentors graduate students while collaborating with institutions like the American Chemical Society. His work has attracted significant recognition including the prestigious Banting Fellowship, indicating strong potential for continued impact in environmental nanotechnology and sustainable engineering solutions. The lab maintains active industry and cross-institutional partnerships, with research directly addressing United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) through practical, scalable technologies applicable from Canadian northern communities to developing nations.

• Graphene and other 2D nanomaterials
• Self-assembled 3D macrostructures for energy and the environment
• Environmental nanotechnology
• +5 more