Find Academic Supervisors

• Computational Biophysics
• Membrane Biophysics
• Molecular Dynamics Simulations
• +5 more

Weria Pezeshkian is an Assistant Professor in the Biocomplexity research group at the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen. With expertise spanning computational biophysics and membrane dynamics, Dr. Pezeshkian leads research that bridges physics, biology, and computational science to address fundamental questions in cellular mechanics. Dr. Pezeshkian's research focuses on: Computational modeling of cellular membranes and their dynamic properties Molecular dynamics simulations of protein-lipid interactions Membrane mechanics and curvature generation mechanisms Plasma membrane repair processes Development of computational methodologies for multiscale biological modeling Analysis of recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on membrane biophysics, particularly in understanding how proteins interact with and shape cellular membranes. The research combines advanced computational techniques with experimental data to model complex cellular processes across multiple scales. Key contributions include elucidating mechanisms of membrane repair, protein-induced membrane curvature, and innovative simulation methodologies like FreeDTS and TS2CG. Scientific recognition includes: MGMS Frank Blaney Award (2024) Dr. Pezeshkian maintains an extensive collaborative network across institutions and disciplines, focusing on integrative approaches to complex biological questions. The research has significant implications for understanding fundamental cellular processes and potential applications in disease mechanisms related to membrane dysfunction.

• Evolutionary Biology
• Bacterial Physiology
• Mechanisms of Gene Regulation and Transcription Networks
• +7 more

Rutger Hermsen is an Assistant Professor in the Science Biology faculty at Utrecht University , leading the Hermsen lab under the Theoretical Biology and Bioinformatics group and the Institute for Biodynamics & Biocomplexity. His work focuses on mathematical and computational models of biological systems, particularly bacterial physiology and evolutionary biology. Email : r.hermsen@uu.nl Contact : Hugo R. Kruytgebouw, Padualaan 8, Kamer N602, 3584 CH Utrecht Research Interests span evolutionary theory, population dynamics, gene regulation, and bacterial physiology. He develops models to study eco-evolutionary interactions, such as antibiotic resistance development, and applies multiscale frameworks to analyze selection pressures in spatially structured populations. His work bridges theoretical biology with bioinformatics and computational methods. Publications highlight his expertise in analyzing spatial selection mechanisms (2024), cellular regulatory networks (2023), and evolutionary transitions (2022). These studies integrate mathematical models with experimental data to address fundamental biological questions. Supervision includes Bryan Verhoef, whose NWO-funded PhD project explores antibiotic resistance modeling, and Charlotte de Vries, a senior postdoc studying aging's role in evolutionary transitions. Collaborations extend to the Tans group at AMOLF for bacterial growth experiments. Laboratory combines computational approaches with interdisciplinary research, focusing on bacterial homeostasis, multilevel selection, and eco-evolutionary demography. The lab contributes to understanding cellular regulatory mechanisms and evolutionary processes through innovative theoretical frameworks.

J. (Jan) BogerdView profile

Assistant Professor

• Endocrinology
• Spermatogenesis
• Testicular Stem Cells
• +7 more

Dr. J. (Jan) Bogerd is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at the Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, where he has been a key member of the Reproductive Biology Group since 1993. His research is centered in the field of Developmental Biology, with strong affiliations to the Biodynamics and Biocomplexity research area and the PtS – Future Food Utrecht initiative. His primary research interests include Endocrinology, Spermatogenesis, Testicular Stem Cells, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry of G Protein-Coupled Receptors, and the Relaxin Peptide Family and their Receptors . His work primarily uses zebrafish and other fish models to investigate the molecular and hormonal regulation of reproductive processes, particularly spermatogenesis and puberty. His extensive publication record, with over 145 research outputs, demonstrates a sustained focus on gonadotropin signaling, steroidogenesis, and the interplay between endocrine and paracrine factors in testicular function. Recent articles highlight ongoing work on Fsh, Igf, Wnt, and prostaglandin signaling in zebrafish spermatogenesis, as well as studies on puberty and gene expression in Atlantic salmon. His research often involves collaboration with prominent scientists like R. W. Schulz. PhD: Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam (1988–1992); Thesis: 'Alternative splicing generates neuropeptide diversity in Lymnaea stagnalis' Post-doctoral Fellow: Utrecht University (1992–1993) Dr. Bogerd has not received any explicitly mentioned scientific awards in the provided text. He has supervised various research activities and has been involved in numerous collaborative projects, though specific details on grants and advisees are not listed. His work is fundamental to understanding the basic mechanisms of reproduction in fish, with potential implications for aquaculture and biomedical research.

Simon A. LevinView profile

Professor

• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Infectious Diseases
• +12 more

Simon A. Levin is the James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Princeton University, where he has been affiliated since 1992. He also holds an Adjunct Professorship at Cornell University. His research bridges ecological theory, evolutionary biology, and environmental economics, focusing on macroscopic patterns in ecosystems, infectious disease dynamics, and sustainable management of global commons. B.A., Johns Hopkins University Ph.D., University of Maryland (Mathematics) Levin’s work integrates mathematical modeling with ecological data to study resilience, pattern formation, and multiscale processes in natural systems. He explores how individual-level ecological and evolutionary mechanisms generate collective outcomes at ecosystem and biosphere scales, emphasizing the importance of scale mismatches in conservation challenges. Recent publications highlight his contributions to epidemic modeling coupled with human behavior, spatial ecology of savanna-forest boundaries, and network-based analyses of social-ecological systems. His 2025 work on risk compensation and surveillance systems demonstrates how behavioral feedbacks influence disease containment strategies. MacArthur Award (1988) Kyoto Prize in Basic Sciences (2005) A.H. Heineken Prize for Environmental Sciences (2004) National Academy of Sciences member Fellow of AAAS and American Academy of Arts and Sciences As director of the Princeton Center for BioComplexity, Levin mentors over 100 graduate students and postdocs. His lab investigates topics like microbial interactions, climate-driven ecosystem shifts, and prosocial behavior in resource governance.

• Marine Biology
• Environmental Science
• Ocean Acidification
• +3 more

Cristina Andolina is a full-time Researcher (BIOS-05/A) at the Department of Earth and Marine Sciences, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Palermo. Her research focuses on marine ecosystems, particularly seagrass physiology, microplastic pollution, and environmental impacts of tourism. She conducts fieldwork at volcanic vents and coastal lagoons, utilizing stable isotope analysis and 3D modeling techniques. Her recent publications examine: Interactions between CO2/H2S exposure and seagrass health Microplastic ingestion patterns in Mediterranean fish Carbon stock quantification in blue carbon ecosystems Ecological impacts of invasive species Tourism-driven nutrient input monitoring via macroalgae She teaches Environmental Assessment and Biotic Indexes and contributes to the Interreg MED BLUEISLANDS project. Office hours are held Wednesdays from 12:00–15:00.

Karel Josef A ProesmansView profile

Assistant Professor

• Non-Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics
• Stochastic Thermodynamics
• Biophysics
• +2 more

Karel Josef A Proesmans is an Assistant Professor at the Niels Bohr Institute under the University of Copenhagen , affiliated with the Biocomplexity and Biophysics group. He joined in October 2021 after completing his PhD at Hasselt University (Belgium, 2017) and postdoctoral work in Canada and Luxembourg. Research Focus: Thermodynamic constraints on biological processes (DNA replication, motility-induced phase separation) through stochastic thermodynamics and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics . Key Article Trends: Explores entropy production, precision-dissipation trade-offs, and thermodynamic bounds in active matter , flocking dynamics , and discriminatory networks . Collaborations: Works with researchers like É. Fodor, G. Falasco, and J. Berx on topics spanning non-equilibrium systems , stochastic processes , and biological networks .

• Developmental Biology
• Stem Cell Research
• Organoid Technology
• +3 more

Professor Alexander van Oudenaarden is a distinguished academic at Utrecht University, where he serves as Professor in the Faculty of Science, specifically within the Developmental Biology department. His research program focuses on cutting-edge approaches in developmental biology, stem cell research, and organoid technology. Dr. van Oudenaarden's research interests span multiple areas of developmental and cellular biology. He is particularly known for his work on stem cell systems, organoid development, and spatial transcriptomics. His laboratory has made significant contributions to understanding embryonic development through stem cell models, cancer therapy applications using organoids, and sex-specific gene expression patterns. His approach often combines quantitative methods with biological systems to uncover fundamental principles of development and disease. His publication record demonstrates significant impact, with multiple high-profile papers in journals such as Nature, Cell, and Nature Genetics. His 2018 paper on blastocyst-like structures generated from stem cells has been particularly influential, garnering over 386 citations and receiving attention from 35 news outlets. The research has implications for understanding early embryonic development and potential regenerative medicine applications. LifeTime and improving European healthcare through cell-based interceptive medicine (2020) - Highly cited review with over 121 citations Blastocyst-like structures generated solely from stem cells (2018) - Landmark paper with 386 citations Oral mucosal organoids as a potential platform for personalized cancer therapy (2019) - Significant contribution to cancer research with 294 citations Professor van Oudenaarden leads a research group focused on developmental dynamics and biocomplexity. His team employs advanced techniques including single-cell analysis, spatial transcriptomics, and organoid culture systems to address fundamental questions in developmental biology and their applications to human health. The group has established collaborations across Europe and maintains strong ties with clinical researchers to translate basic findings into potential therapeutic approaches.

Henning S. MortveitView profile

Associate Professor

• Graph Dynamical Systems
• Simulation Models
• Network Theory
• +3 more

Henning S. Mortveit is an Associate Professor at the University of Virginia, affiliated with the Department of Systems and Information Engineering and the Network Systems Science and Advanced Computing division within the UVA Biocomplexity Institute. He holds a Ph.D. in Mathematics from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (2000) and previously worked at Los Alamos National Laboratory and Virginia Tech. His research focuses on graph dynamical systems , including their combinatorial and algebraic structures, stability, resiliency, and applications in large-scale simulation models. His work bridges discrete and continuous dynamical systems, emphasizing structure-to-function theories. Mortveit's recent publications explore topics such as attractor stability in biological systems, cycle equivalence in GDS, and hardware-software co-design for supercomputing. His methodological contributions span from foundational mathematical frameworks to applied crisis response modeling. He is based at the UVA Biocomplexity Institute, where he develops simulation frameworks and advanced computing solutions for complex systems analysis.

Simon A. LevinView profile

Professor

• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Spatial Ecology
• +9 more

Simon A. Levin is the James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Princeton University and Director of the Center for BioComplexity. He has been at Princeton since 1992 and is a leading figure in theoretical ecology, mathematical biology, and the study of complex systems. His educational background includes a B.A. from Johns Hopkins University and a Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of Maryland. Levin has held numerous prestigious leadership positions including past President of the Ecological Society of America and the Society for Mathematical Biology, past Chair of the Board of the Beijer Institute of Ecological Economics, past Chair of the Council of IIASA, and past Co-Chair of the Science Board of the Santa Fe Institute. Levin's research focuses on understanding the dynamics of biological diversity at all levels, from molecular diversity of diseases to global ecological and cultural systems. His work explores how diversity is important for humans and socioeconomic mechanisms for sustaining diversity. He combines mathematical modeling with empirical investigations to study biodiversity, biocomplexity, infectious diseases, and the interactions between ecological and socioeconomic systems. A central theme in his work is developing rules for scaling from microscopic to macroscopic levels, from individuals to collectives, and from small to large scales. His research has significant implications for the management of natural resources and has built important interfaces between theoretical investigations and practical applications. Levin's work on pattern and scale, spatial ecology, and the intersection of ecology and economics has been particularly influential, especially in areas concerning public goods, common pool resources, and the global commons. Recent publications demonstrate his continued leadership in modeling epidemic dynamics coupled with human behavior and understanding ecological community assembly. A.H. Heineken Prize for Environmental Sciences Kyoto Prize in Basic Sciences Margalef Prize Sigma Xi's 2025 Gold Key Award As Director of the Center for BioComplexity at Princeton, Levin leads research on complex systems in ecology and biology. His lab investigates how individual behaviors and collective phenomena interact across scales, with applications to environmental challenges and sustainability. His work has profound implications for understanding how to address global environmental challenges through better understanding of the tension between individual and collective interests, as reflected in his statement: 'We need to take multicellularity to yet a higher level and find the collective Kokoro that is the only hope for the preservation of the planet.'

• Plant Pathology
• Microbiology
• Biotechnology
• +6 more

Giulio Dimaria is a Research Fellow at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A) , University of Catania. His work focuses on plant microbiome interactions, particularly in biocontrol strategies for Citrus Mal Secco and tomato pith necrosis diseases. Education: PhD in Biotechnology (XXXV cycle, University of Catania, 2023), Master's in Agricultural Biotechnology (University of Catania, 2019), Bachelor's in Agricultural Sciences (University of Catania, 2017). Research areas: Plant pathology, microbial genomics, biocontrol, microbiome engineering, and bacterial interactions in Pseudomonas and Xanthomonas systems. His recent publications analyze genomic insights into tomato microbiomes, biocontrol mechanisms of Pseudomonas mediterranea , and lipopeptide regulation in Pseudomonas corrugata . Key collaborations include Prof. Vittoria Catara (scientific director) and Prof. Jesús Murillo (co-supervisor). Contributions to conferences like SIPaV and ICPPB highlight his work on microbial solutions for agricultural sustainability. Scientific Awards : FEMS Grant (2022), Young Researchers in Training Grant (2021). Editorial Roles : Review Editor for Frontiers in Plant Science (2024), Young Editorial Board member of Journal of Plant Pathology (2024). Affiliations : Full member of Italian Association for Plant Protection (AIPP) and Italian Society of Plant Pathology (SIPaV).

• Bioinformatics
• Proteomics
• Mass Spectrometry
• +6 more

Dr. ir. B. (Bas) van Breukelen is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Science , Utrecht University , specializing in Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics . Since 2003, he has contributed to bioinformatics and quantitative proteomics research, with a focus on integrative bioinformatics and life sciences. He coordinates the Bioinformatics and BioComplexity Masters Program and serves as the Bioinformatics Profile Coordinator for all Graduate School Life Sciences (GSLS) master’s programs. PhD (2003, Utrecht Medical Centre): Adenovirus DNA replication and recombination Key roles : Developer of LIMS and statistical pipelines; member of Utrecht Bioinformatics Center (UBC) since 2014 Research themes : Integrative bioinformatics, mass spectrometry data analysis, and cross-disciplinary collaborations in proteomics His work spans bioinformatics , proteomics , biostatistics , and data stewardship , with notable contributions to protein complex identification, phosphoproteomics, and software tools for proteomics data. He has taught courses such as Basic Machine Learning for Bioinformatics and Introduction to Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry . Skills include Adobe Creative Suite , Moodle , R programming , and educational coordination . He collaborates with the Hecklab and Utrecht Bioinformatics Center , with publications in journals like Molecular & Cellular Proteomics and Nature Methods .

Gursharn KaurView profile

Academic

• Statistics
• Probability
• Epidemiology
• +7 more

Gursharn Kaur serves as a Research Assistant Professor at the Biocomplexity Institute, University of Virginia, conducting interdisciplinary research at the intersection of statistical theory and public health applications. Her educational foundation includes a Ph.D. in Statistics from the Indian Statistical Institute (2018), with core expertise developed in probability theory and epidemiological methods. Her research program spans: Mathematical frameworks for disease transmission modeling Stochastic processes in biological systems Advanced statistical inference for genomic epidemiology Network theory applications in pathogen evolution Asymptotic analysis of complex stochastic systems Wastewater-based infectious disease surveillance Current projects focus on operationalizing forecasting models for SARS-CoV-2 and influenza through environmental monitoring, directly informing public health interventions during pandemics. No scientific awards were documented in available materials. Dr. Kaur's academic mentoring activities and grant-funded research projects remain unspecified in current public profiles, though her wastewater epidemiology work implies active collaboration with public health agencies.

• Biophysics
• Materials Science
• Computational Biology
• +3 more

Martin Cramer Pedersen is an Associate Professor at the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, affiliated with the Biocomplexity department and the Solid State Physics group. His research spans interdisciplinary topics at the intersection of biophysics, materials science, and computational biology. Specializes in structural characterization using small-angle scattering (SAXS/SANS) Develops computational methods for analyzing complex biological and soft matter systems Investigates active matter dynamics, membrane-bound protein interactions, and colloidal self-assembly Recent publications highlight his work on: Hyperbolic order in curved materials α-synuclein aggregation mechanisms Active particle-induced porous gel structures Advanced scattering data analysis tutorials Casein micelle structural heterogeneity Nematic order collapse on frictional substrates His collaborative research involves institutions across Europe and Australia, with applications in biophysics, nanotechnology, and soft matter physics.

• Genetical Genomics
• Systems Genetics
• Bioinformatics
• +6 more

Dr. L.B. Snoek serves as an Assistant Professor in the Bioinformatics group within the Faculty of Science at Utrecht University. His research bridges computational biology with experimental approaches to understand genetic and phenotypic variation across different organisms. He leads the systems genetics and network biology lab, focusing on high-throughput techniques like RNA-sequencing to analyze complex biological interactions. Dr. Snoek obtained his Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry/Biotechnology from Enschede University College in 2000, followed by a Master's in Plant Biotechnology/Genetics from Wageningen University in 2002. He completed his PhD at Utrecht University in 2009, with subsequent research positions at Wageningen University, NIOO, and his current role at Utrecht University where he became Assistant Professor in 2020. His research interests center on genetical genomics and systems genetics, particularly studying natural variation in transcript abundance in organisms like Caenorhabditis elegans and Arabidopsis . He investigates how gene regulatory networks can be constructed using Recombinant Inbred Lines and Introgression Lines, with applications to agriculturally important traits and human disease models. His work on network biology focuses on integrating multi-level biological measurements to understand complex interactions from gene to ecosystem levels. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on quantitative trait loci mapping, expression QTL analysis, and the impact of environmental factors on gene expression. His work spans plant biology (particularly lettuce, rice, and tomato), nematode genetics, and microbiome interactions, demonstrating an interdisciplinary approach that combines computational methods with experimental validation. Recent projects show increasing integration of machine learning and big data approaches to tackle complex biological questions. Dr. Snoek is actively involved in teaching, contributing to programs including Bioinformatics and Biocomplexity, Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences, and teaching courses on Python and R for life sciences. He currently serves as Principal Investigator for the LettuceKnow project, a TTW Perspective Grant focused on establishing lettuce as a model crop through quantitative genetics approaches. His lab maintains collaborations across multiple institutions, including ongoing work with NIOO-KNAW on ecosystem studies and Wageningen University on nematode research.

Stephen J. WalshView profile

Professor

• Geography
• Environmental Science
• Biocomplexity
• +6 more

Stephen J. Walsh is the Lyle V. Jones Distinguished Professor of Geography at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC). He is the founding director of the Galapagos Initiative and the Galapagos Science Center (GSC), a 20,000-square-foot interdisciplinary research facility on San Cristobal Island, Ecuador. His work focuses on coupled human-natural systems, land-use dynamics, and island sustainability, with a particular emphasis on the Galapagos Islands. Walsh has led initiatives such as the International Islands Network-of-Networks (I2N2) and organized the 2022 World Summit on Island Sustainability, bringing together global experts to address island vulnerability and resilience. Walsh’s research integrates remote sensing, GIScience, and agent-based modeling to study biocomplexity, land-cover changes, and conservation policies. He has authored/co-edited over 20 books and special issues, including the Springer Nature Galapagos Book Series. His awards include the AAAS Fellowship, Distinguished Teaching Award, and lifetime achievement honors. Key Projects: Galapagos Science Center, I2N2, World Summit on Island Sustainability Key Themes: Island sustainability, land-use change, agent-based modeling, conservation biology Global Collaborations: Universidad San Francisco de Quito (Ecuador), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Australian universities Walsh has supervised numerous collaborative initiatives and serves on editorial boards for journals like the Annals of the Association of American Geographers . His work bridges academia, policy, and community engagement to address global environmental challenges.