Find Academic Supervisors

• Computational Protein Design
• Non-canonical Amino Acids
• Biochemistry
• +5 more

Jeremy Mills is an Associate Professor at Arizona State University (ASU), affiliated with the School of Molecular Sciences and the Biodesign Institute’s Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics. His research focuses on computational protein design, leveraging non-canonical amino acids to engineer proteins with novel functions for biomedical and chemical applications. Mills holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Vanderbilt University (2001) and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from The Scripps Research Institute (2010), followed by postdoctoral training with David Baker at the University of Washington. Research Interests : Mills’ work spans three core areas: designing fluorescent biosensors for diagnostics, creating novel enzymes through computational methods, and developing protein-based nanomaterials with photochemical properties. His lab employs non-canonical amino acids to address limitations in conventional protein engineering and to study molecular-level processes. Teaching & Academic Contributions : Mills teaches courses in biochemistry, organic chemistry, and research techniques at ASU, including BCH/CHM 392 (Intro to Research Techniques), CHM 433 (Bioorganic Chemistry), and honors thesis supervision. His courses emphasize hands-on training in molecular design and biochemical analysis. Labs & Collaborations : He collaborates with the Biodesign Center for Applied Structural Discovery and the Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, advancing interdisciplinary research at the intersection of computation, chemistry, and biology.

• Renewable Energy
• Thermochemical Engineering
• Materials Science
• +3 more

Ellen Stechel is a Professor of Practice and Co-Director of LightWorks at Arizona State University (ASU). She holds affiliations with the School of Molecular Sciences, the Water Institute, and the Global Futures Scientists and Scholars program. Her work focuses on advancing solar-thermochemical technologies for clean energy production, including hydrogen and ammonia synthesis, sustainable materials design, and renewable energy systems. Stechel leads interdisciplinary research addressing global energy challenges through innovations in solar-driven processes. Her projects involve developing novel perovskite oxides, optimizing thermochemical cycles, and creating scalable systems for energy storage and conversion. She collaborates with institutions like Sandia National Laboratories and AORA, focusing on practical applications such as carbon-neutral ammonia production and grid decarbonization strategies. Research Highlights: Solar thermochemical water splitting, sustainable agriculture integration, oxygen separation materials, and extreme heat impacts on EV performance. Grants & Collaborations: Multiple funded projects with Sandia, AORA, and DOE-ARPA, totaling millions in research support. Labs & Teams: Leads LightWorks' energy innovation initiatives and directs ASU's efforts in solar-hybrid biomass gasification. Her contributions bridge fundamental science and real-world applications, aiming to accelerate the global transition to carbon-neutral energy systems.

• Neuroscience
• Physiology
• Vision Science
• +5 more

Jeannie Chen, PhD, is a Professor of Physiology and Neuroscience at the University of Southern California (USC). Her research focuses on retinal degeneration mechanisms, photoreceptor biology, and vision restoration strategies. She leads studies on retinitis pigmentosa, congenital stationary night blindness, and the role of proteins like arrestin and rhodopsin in retinal signaling and survival. Her work employs mouse models to investigate gene therapy efficacy, synaptic transmission in degenerating retinas, and protein dynamics (e.g., huntingtin fibrils). Recent studies highlight cone-mediated vision persistence during rod degeneration and the impact of metabolic pathways (e.g., lactate) on photoreceptor function. Dr. Chen’s research bridges molecular mechanisms and therapeutic applications, with publications spanning 2006–2024. She is affiliated with USC’s Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI). Key areas: Retinal degeneration, phototransduction, gene therapy, protein interactions. Techniques: Mouse models, biochemical assays, protein isolation, in vivo imaging. Publications emphasize retinal signaling pathways, synaptic plasticity, and the role of exchangers (e.g., NCKX proteins) in maintaining vision. Her work also extends to agricultural microbiology (e.g., Bacillus subtilis effects on poultry growth).

• Microbiology
• Biotechnology
• Metabolic Engineering
• +3 more

Prof. Diana Machado de Sousa is a Personal Professor at Wageningen University & Research, specializing in microbial systems and anaerobic processes. Her research focuses on microbial metabolism, metabolic engineering, and the application of microorganisms in biotechnology and renewable energy. Her work involves studying acetogens, methanogens, and thermophilic bacteria to enhance bioproduction of sustainable chemicals. Key projects include microbial community engineering for syngas conversion and hydrogen storage solutions. She has supervised 10 PhD candidates, including recent projects on microbial symbiosis and anaerobic waste valorization. Research interests span metabolic pathways, anaerobic bioreactors, and CO₂ utilization. Recent publications highlight advancements in methanol metabolism, thermophilic microorganism behavior, and bioconversion technologies. Prof. Sousa collaborates internationally on microbial ecology and has contributed datasets to platforms like ENA and Figshare. Her lab focuses on translating microbial innovations into industrial applications for a circular bioeconomy.

Edward O'BrienView profile

Professor

• Biological Chemistry
• Computational Chemistry
• Theoretical Chemistry
• +3 more

Edward O'Brien is a Professor of Chemistry and Director of the NSF National Synthesis Center for Emergence in the Molecular and Cellular Sciences at Pennsylvania State University. His research focuses on the biophysical mechanisms of protein folding during translation, with emphasis on ribosome mechanics, co-translational folding, and the impact of translation kinetics on protein structure/function. He holds affiliations with the Department of Chemistry and the Institute for Computational and Data Sciences. Education includes a B.S. in Biochemistry (University of the Sciences, 2002), Ph.D. in Chemical Physics (University of Maryland, 2008), and postdoctoral training at the University of Cambridge. His honors include the Presidential Early Career Award (2019), NSF CAREER Award (2016-2021), and multiple NIH grants. Research interests span mechanistic studies of ribosome-catalyzed peptide bond formation, the role of electrostatic interactions in translation elongation, and the molecular origins of protein misfolding. Recent work explores non-covalent lasso entanglements in proteins and their implications for disease, drug design, and cancer genetics. Award-winning publications include breakthrough studies on cotranslational folding dynamics and ribosome mechanochemistry. He leads interdisciplinary efforts in computational biophysics and molecular modeling, with grants totaling over $5M. His lab collaborates globally on projects involving proteostasis networks, viral protein interactions, and synthetic biology.

Lorraine SantyView profile

Associate Professor

• Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Molecular Biology
• +3 more

Lorraine Santy is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Pennsylvania State University and serves as the Associate Chair of the Molecular, Cellular, and Integrated Biosciences (MCIBS) Graduate Program. She is affiliated with the Center for Cellular Dynamics and holds roles on committees including the BMB Ombuds and BMMB Steering Committee. Her research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms driving epithelial cell migration, particularly in contexts like tissue repair and metastasis, with emphasis on cytohesin/Arf signaling pathways. Key projects include HGF-stimulated migration, adhesion receptor recycling, and the role of cytohesin splice variants in kidney injury recovery. Dr. Santy received the 2013 Daniel R. Tershak Memorial Teaching Award for her educational contributions. Her work integrates cellular, biochemical, and molecular approaches to elucidate signaling networks in epithelial biology. Research interests span cell biology, developmental biology, and molecular mechanisms of disease. Her lab investigates how cytohesins regulate Rac activation and integrin dynamics, with applications to kidney injury recovery and cancer metastasis. Recent studies emphasize the functional differences between cytohesin splice variants and their roles in membrane trafficking and adhesion. These findings have implications for therapeutic strategies targeting epithelial migration in disease states.

• Neurochemistry
• Neurobiology
• Cellular Biochemistry
• +3 more

Hanna Bielarczyk is a former Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the Medical University of Gdańsk. Her research focuses on neurochemistry, neurotoxic mechanisms, and cellular energy metabolism, particularly investigating zinc's effects on neuronal cells and neurodegenerative processes. She has contributed significantly to understanding cholinergic neuron vulnerability in Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders. Her work includes studies on SN56 neuroblastoma cells, thiamine-zinc interactions, and platelet dysfunction in diabetes. She co-authored chapters in major textbooks such as Medical Biochemistry and edited Diagnostyka Laboratoryjna: Skrypt dla Studentów , a foundational laboratory diagnostics textbook for medical students. Collaborations with researchers like Andrzej Szutowicz and Anna Ronowska highlight her team-oriented approach to advancing biochemical and neurological research. Her research spans neurotoxicology, metabolic disorders, and neuroprotective strategies, with findings published in journals like Neurochemical Research and Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience . She also presented work at conferences like the European Neuroscience Conference for Doctoral Students (ENCODS 2017).

Thamara LaredoView profile

Associate Professor

• Environmental Chemistry
• Food Science
• Spectroscopy
• +3 more

Dr. Thamara Laredo is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Lakehead University, affiliated with the Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Mining & Exploration. She joined the university in August 2010 after completing her HBSc at Simon Bolivar University (2003) and a PhD at the University of Guelph (2009). Her research focuses on environmental chemistry, food science, spectroscopy, surface science, and electrochemistry, with particular emphasis on solvent separation technologies, phase behavior analysis, and sustainable material development. Her work addresses critical challenges in pollution remediation, including the design of amphiphilic materials for solvent demixing and the development of plant-based composites for food applications. Recent studies explore hydrogen bonding mechanisms in ternary mixtures and the role of bacterial surfactants in pollutant phase separation. She actively contributes to interdisciplinary projects at the interface of chemistry, materials science, and environmental engineering. Dr. Laredo’s publications span over two decades, with notable contributions to electrochemistry (e.g., studies on PbO2 electrodes), lipid bilayer dynamics, and food chemistry innovations. Her research often integrates experimental methods with computational modeling to advance understanding of molecular interactions in complex systems.

Theresa FisherView profile

Researcher

• Astrobiology
• Exoplanet Science
• Atmospheric Chemistry
• +3 more

Theresa Fisher is a Researcher at the Steward Observatory, University of Arizona, since August 2023. She collaborates with Dr. R©gis Ferrierre as part of the NASA-funded Alien Earths NExSS team. Her work focuses on developing biosignatures for exoplanets using complex systems science and atmospheric chemistry, extending her doctoral research on atmospheric chemical reaction networks as biosignature indicators. She holds a Ph.D. in 2023 from Arizona State University. Education: Ph.D., 2023, Arizona State University Research Interests: Dr. Fisher investigates global ecological models and exoplanetary atmospheric dynamics to identify biosignatures. Her work integrates network topology analysis and statistical methods to assess planetary habitability and distinguish biotic from abiotic atmospheres. She also explores technosignatures and the role of biogeosciences in detecting extraterrestrial life. Key Projects: Her contributions include designing frameworks for the Putative Habitable World Observatory and analyzing meteorite-derived biochemical networks. She advocates for probabilistic approaches in biosignature detection and emphasizes the importance of oxygen-based biosignatures on water worlds. Grants & Collaborations: Funded by NASA's Alien Earths NExSS team, her research aligns with cutting-edge exoplanet observation strategies and planetary science priorities. She actively participates in interdisciplinary discussions on astrobiology trends through conferences like the 2022 Exoplanet Biosignatures session. Labs/Teams: Member of the Alien Earths NExSS team at Steward Observatory, leveraging advanced observational tools and theoretical models to advance exoplanet science.

• Renewable Energy
• Biogas Production and Upgradation
• Biomass Conversion (Thermochemical/Biochemical)
• +3 more

Shiplu Sarker is an Associate Professor at the Department of Manufacturing and Civil Engineering, NTNU, Gjøvik. He holds a PhD from the University of Agder (Norway) and completed a postdoc at NTNU, Trondheim. His research focuses on renewable energy, including biomass conversion, biogas upgradation, solar energy, and energy system modeling using tools like PVSyst and HOMER. He has industry experience in paper manufacturing and beverage processing. Education: BSc in Mechanical Engineering (2002), PhD in Thermochemical Gasification (2016). He has taught at multiple institutions, including NTNU, KTH, and Aarhus University, covering courses like thermodynamics, bioenergy, and sustainable energy. Research interests include thermochemical/biochemical biomass conversion, biogas production optimization, and energy efficiency. He has led projects such as BIOGASPLAS and BioELEC (partners: TALTECH, EMU), and is the main supervisor for the BEHHYD PhD project. His publications span biogas upgradation, anaerobic digestion optimization, and renewable energy systems. He currently guest edits a special issue on 'Biomass Resources to Bioenergy' for Energies .

Epaminondas VoutsasView profile

Professor

• Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics
• Natural Gas Processing
• Supercritical Fluid Extraction
• +6 more

Epaminondas Voutsas serves as Professor at the School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Greece, within the Department of Analysis, Design and Development of Processes and Systems. He leads the Thermodynamics and Transport Phenomena Lab (TTPL), established in 1988, focusing on fundamental chemical engineering research with industrial applications. His primary research spans Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics, Natural Gas Processing, Supercritical Fluid Extraction, and sustainable solvent applications including Ionic Liquids and Deep Eutectic Solvents. Key contributions include developing the UMR-PRU model for natural gas dew point prediction, phase equilibrium modeling for reservoir fluids, and green extraction methods for bioactive compounds from algae. His work bridges biotechnology, environmental engineering, and waste-to-energy conversion through thermodynamic principles. Recent publications from the BIOMALGA project (2019-2022) demonstrate significant advances in sustainable extraction of bioactive compounds from micro/macroalgae using green solvents, with applications in anti-aging products and antioxidant development. These studies emphasize environmentally friendly processes using Deep Eutectic Solvents and supercritical CO 2 . As coordinator of the €198,919.55 BIOMALGA project funded by Greece's National Action 'Special Actions', he led collaborative research between NTUA and the University of Ioannina. The project developed green processes for recovering bioactive products from seaweed, involving optimization of microalgae cultivation, magnetic biomass harvesting, and enzymatic modification of extracts. He actively supervises researchers in thermodynamic modeling and sustainable process development. The Thermodynamics and Transport Phenomena Lab (TTPL) specializes in experimental measurements and modeling of complex mixtures including supercritical fluids and ionic liquids. The lab maintains pilot-scale units for supercritical extraction and collaborates with industry on applications in carbon capture, plastics recycling, and environmental pollutant fate prediction. Current research focuses on integrating thermodynamic models with circular economy principles for sustainable industrial processes.

• Actin Cytoskeleton
• Cell Adhesion
• Intestinal Polyps
• +6 more

Kaelyn Sumigray is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Genetics at Yale School of Medicine. She holds a PhD in Cell Biology from Duke University (2011) and postdoctoral training at UNC Chapel Hill and Duke University. Her research focuses on intestinal epithelial biology, stem cell dynamics, and morphogenesis, with particular interest in CFTR high-expresser cells and intestinal pathologies like cystic fibrosis and microvillus inclusion disease. She co-directs the Yale Summer Enrichment Research Experience (YSERE) and serves on multiple institutional committees including Yale Genetics Department Mentoring Committee and Yale Cancer Center. Education B.S., Biology, Union College (2006) Ph.D., Cell Biology, Duke University (2011) Research Interests Dr. Sumigray investigates intestinal epithelial morphogenesis, stem cell niches, and disease mechanisms in cystic fibrosis and microvillus inclusion disease. Her lab uses organoid models and coculture systems to study epithelial-fibroblast interactions, CFTR function, and pH-sensing neuropod cells. Key themes include intestinal regeneration, cell polarity, and the role of serotonin in epithelial proliferation. Publications Overview Recent work highlights sex-specific effects of asparagine on colorectal tumors, lysosomal protein degradation mechanisms, and CFTR high-expresser cells' role in cystic fibrosis. Her articles span molecular biology, cell biology, and translational gastroenterology, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. Awards Chen Innovation Award (2022) Dermatology Foundation Basic Research Award (2014) Grants & Advising Active in peer review for journals including Nature Cell Biology and the Journal of Clinical Investigation. Mentors students through Yale's Genetics Department and BBS program. Leads initiatives to enhance diversity in STEM through YSERE and institutional committees. Labs & Teams Leads the Sumigray Lab focused on intestinal epithelial biology. Collaborates with the Janeway Society and Yale Stem Cell Center on interdisciplinary projects.

Michael D LynchView profile

Associate Professor

• Biomedical Engineering
• Metabolic Engineering
• Synthetic Biology
• +4 more

Michael D. Lynch is the W. H. Gardner, Jr. Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Duke University, affiliated with the Pratt School of Engineering. He also holds appointments in the Department of Chemistry (Trinity College of Arts & Sciences) and the Duke Initiative for Science & Society. His research focuses on genetically engineering microbes to produce valuable chemicals and therapeutics through dynamic metabolic control and synthetic biology approaches. Education: M.D. (University of Colorado School of Medicine, 2007), Ph.D. (University of Colorado, Boulder, 2005). Research interests include microbial strain engineering, bioprocess optimization, CRISPR-based technologies, and scalable production of biofuels/therapeutics. Recent work emphasizes protein purification methods (nanobodies, Griffithsin), two-stage microfermentation systems, and techno-economic analysis of bioprocesses. His grants include NIH-funded projects on biomolecular engineering training, CRISPR-enabled DNA synthesis, and sustainable production of energetic materials. Professional activities include leading Duke's undergraduate iGEM team and developing open-source bioprocessing tools like BioSamplr. Teaching responsibilities span advanced biomedical engineering courses, independent research supervision, and interdisciplinary projects. Lynch's lab innovates in strain design, bioreactor automation, and cost-effective manufacturing strategies for industrial biotechnology.

• Cancer Research
• Pharmacology
• Medicinal Chemistry
• +3 more

Dr. Rebecca Roubin is a Lecturer in the Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Sydney's Faculty of Pharmacy. She holds a BSc (Hons) from UNSW and a PhD. Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms of the tumor microenvironment, particularly in blood cancers like Multiple Myeloma, alongside exploring synergistic nuclear receptor agonists and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) applications. Collaborations include work with Hong Kong Polytechnic University on PPARγ pathways and immunomodulatory glycoproteins. Her research themes include Cancer, Cardiovascular/ Diabetes, and Health Services. She has published widely on topics ranging from PPAR agonist design to ethnobotanical drug discovery. Key grants include projects on PPARγ agonists (2006) and glycoproteomic diagnostics (2003). She also contributes to pharmacy education and anti-doping practices in athlete care. Education: BSc (Hons) UNSW, PhD International Collaborations: Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Shanxi University (China) Grants: 4 major grants including PPARγ therapy and cartilage gene therapy Labs/Teams: Cancer Immunotherapy Group, TCM Anticancer Research Unit Her work bridges basic science and translational medicine, emphasizing drug development for hard-to-treat cancers and leveraging traditional medicinal knowledge.

Tien HuynhView profile

Associate Professor

• Environmental Sustainability
• Biomaterials
• Plant Biology
• +8 more

Dr. Tien Huynh is an Associate Professor in the School of Science at RMIT University, specializing in environmental sustainability, biotechnology, and mycology. Her research bridges ecological conservation, medicinal plant applications, and advanced materials engineering, with a focus on sustainable solutions for environmental and health challenges. She holds a PhD from the University of Melbourne and has conducted postdoctoral work in the UK and Italy. Education: PhD in Biological Sciences, University of Melbourne (2004) Postdoctoral Research, University of Cambridge (UK) and University of Florence (Italy) Research Interests: Environmental sustainability and conservation Plant pathology and mycorrhizal symbiosis Medicinal plants for cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases Biomaterials and fire-resistant composites from agricultural waste Neuropharmacology and drug discovery Awards & Recognition: Superstars of STEM award (Science and Technology Australia, 2023) Grants & Projects: Bulloak Conservation Project (Wettenhall Environmental Trust, 2018) New Colombo Plan Program (Australian Government, 2017) Biodiversity On Grounds Action Grant (Victorian Government, 2017) Outreach & Industry Collaboration: International study programs in Asia for students Industry partnerships for sustainable material development Community engagement in conservation and education