Professor Gürkan Hızal is a faculty member at the Department of Chemistry, Istanbul Technical University. His research focuses on polymer chemistry, functional polymer synthesis, and material science. He leads several projects funded by TÜBİTAK and BAP, including studies on polymerization techniques, functionalizable polymers, and nanotechnology applications. Notable projects include the synthesis of bis-diaryliodonium salts for condensation polymerization and development of carbon nanotube-based sensors. He has supervised 49 ongoing theses and published over 145 research outputs, with a h-index of 44. His work emphasizes innovative methods in polymer synthesis and applications in materials engineering.
Professor Katja Loos is a distinguished academic at the University of Groningen, where she serves as Professor of Polymer Science and Applied Chemistry within the Faculty of Science and Engineering. She leads the Macromolecular Chemistry & New Polymeric Materials research group at the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, focusing on sustainable polymer development and green chemistry solutions. Her research group maintains strong collaborations with NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences and other international institutions. Loos' research interests center on the synthesis and characterization of novel macromolecules, with particular emphasis on developing sustainable, eco-efficient production methods for polymeric materials. Her work spans enzymatic polymerization techniques, biobased materials, biodegradable plastics, recyclable polymers, and sustainable manufacturing processes. A significant portion of her recent work focuses on creating sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics, including biobased polyesters, starch-based materials, and vitrimer networks with dynamic covalent bonds. Her recent publications demonstrate a clear trend toward environmentally friendly polymer solutions, with emphasis on biobased feedstocks, recyclable materials, and sustainable manufacturing. The research spans fundamental polymer chemistry to applied technologies including water remediation membranes, wearable electronics, energy storage materials, and 3D printable sustainable polymers. Her group has pioneered work on enzymatic synthesis of furan-based polymers, starch modification for improved properties, and recyclable bioplastic membranes for oil-water separation. Professor Loos has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing her scientific excellence and contributions to sustainable chemistry: IUPAC 2021 Distinguished Women in Chemistry award NWO Team Science Award (2022) with the HyBRit research group Research Award of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowship for Innovation of Teaching Royal Decoration from the University of Groningen She has successfully secured substantial research funding, including more than EUR 6 million for sustainable plastic development projects. Professor Loos has supervised over 15 PhD students whose work spans enzymatic polymerization, biobased materials, starch modification, and advanced polymer architectures. Her research group, HyBRit, focuses on creating sustainable polymer solutions with closed-loop life cycles, recently developing a recyclable bioplastic membrane that can remove oil from water and be depolymerized for reuse. The Loos research group operates within the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, maintaining strong connections with the Green Chemistry Ecosystem of North Netherlands. They collaborate extensively with both academic and industrial partners to translate fundamental polymer science into practical sustainable solutions for real-world environmental challenges.
Bernardeta Dębska is a Professor at the Department of General Construction, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszów University of Technology. Her primary research focuses on sustainable building materials, polymer composites modified with waste, and statistical modeling in materials science. She teaches courses on Building Materials and Advanced Construction Technologies. Her organizational roles include chairing the Faculty Committee for Education Quality Assurance, serving on the University Commission for Education Quality Assurance, and being Secretary of the Disciplinary Council for Civil Engineering. She actively participates in the Solina Conferences dedicated to sustainable development and energy-efficient technologies in construction. Her scientific work emphasizes waste utilization in composites, thermal properties analysis, and chemical resistance of materials. She leads research in the Building Materials and Building Physics Laboratories, contributing to innovative construction solutions through experimental and theoretical studies.
Corniek Post is a Promovendus (PhD candidate) at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Science and Engineering, affiliated with the Macromolecular Chemistry and New Polymeric Materials department. Their work focuses on sustainable polymer synthesis and characterization. University: University of Groningen School: Faculty of Science and Engineering Department: Macromolecular Chemistry and New Polymeric Materials Email: c.post@rug.nl Research Interests span biobased polymers, biodegradable materials, polymer synthesis techniques, and materials engineering. Their work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing eco-friendly polymer solutions. Publication Trends show specialization in: Biodegradable polyester amides and polyurethanes Bulk polymerization methods Hydrogen bonding in polymeric materials Rheological property analysis Renewable feedstock utilization (e.g., BHMF, starch) Self-healing material design Collaboration Network includes researchers like Dr. V.S.D. Voet, Prof. K. Loos, and teams focusing on sustainable polymer technologies.
Vincent Voet serves as an External employee within the Department of Macromolecular Chemistry and New Polymeric Materials at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Science and Engineering. His research program bridges fundamental polymer science with practical applications in advanced materials development. Research interests include: 3D Printing of functional polymers Stimuli-responsive hydrogels (temperature/photo) Block copolymer self-assembly systems Biobased and biodegradable polyesters Natural fiber thermoplastic composites Smart materials for encryption/sensors His 2025 publication surge reveals strong trends toward dual-stimuli materials and sustainable polymer systems, with work appearing in Macromolecules, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, and European Polymer Journal. The research demonstrates increasing focus on application-driven material design while maintaining rigorous polymer chemistry foundations. Vincent has supervised 5 research projects and maintains active international collaborations. His publication pipeline indicates robust current funding, though specific grant details require direct inquiry. The work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals through sustainable materials development and advanced manufacturing approaches.
Peter Kofinas serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Maryland, with affiliate appointments in Bioengineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and the Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices. Previously, he held roles as Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs and Graduate Programs in the A. James Clark School of Engineering and Associate Chair of the Fischell Department of Bioengineering. His educational background includes B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After completing postdoctoral research at MIT, he joined the University of Maryland faculty in 1996. Research Focus: Kofinas directs the Functional Macromolecular Laboratory , specializing in functional polymers for medical, energy, and electronics applications. His work spans polymer electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries , additive manufacturing of magnetodielectric nanocomposites , biodegradable surgical sealants for adhesion prevention and wound healing, and structural color biosensors for pathogen detection. Recent projects include sprayable surgical materials, hemorrhage control hydrogels, and point-of-care diagnostic devices. His publications reveal a strong emphasis on energy storage materials (30% of recent work), surgical biomaterials (25%), and printable electronics (20%), with growing interest in point-of-care diagnostics and antimicrobial wound dressings. Senior Outstanding Research Award (2012) Two Outstanding Invention of the Year Awards (2007, 2001) National Science Foundation CAREER Award (1999) Engaged Faculty Award (2011) University of Maryland Keystone Professorship (2005–2012) Kofinas has graduated 23 PhD students (3 now in faculty positions), 9 MS thesis students, and mentored over 100 undergraduates. His entrepreneurial activities include founding startup companies commercializing laboratory innovations. He directs the Functional Macromolecular Laboratory, which integrates polymer synthesis, nanomaterials engineering, and biomedical device development across multiple collaborative projects with clinical and industrial partners.
Gerald Striedner serves as Professor and Head of the Institute of Bioprocess Science and Engineering at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). He leads a comprehensive research group focused on upstream process development for the production of recombinant proteins, plasmid DNA, and virus-like particles using bacterial, insect, and mammalian cell systems. His research interests span advanced process characterization , E. coli expression system design , rational bioprocess development , process monitoring and control , continuous biomanufacturing , and synthetic biology applications . His work integrates PAT/QbD concepts to create efficient production platforms for bio-pharmaceutical, industrial, and environmental applications. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on cutting-edge bioprocess technologies including non-canonical amino acid incorporation, advanced protein purification methods, continuous manufacturing platforms, and enzyme engineering for polymer degradation. His research demonstrates a consistent emphasis on both fundamental process understanding and practical applications for industrial biotechnology. As an academic leader, Professor Striedner supervises a diverse team including PhD students, postdocs, and senior scientists. His research group maintains active collaborations with academic partners across Europe, including institutions in Austria, Portugal, and Germany, reflecting the international scope of his work. His laboratory operates within BOKU's Institute of Bioprocess Science and Engineering, which features advanced pilot plant facilities for training and research purposes, providing an integrated environment for both fundamental research and practical application development in bioprocess engineering.
Martin Timusk is an Associate Professor in Material Science at the Institute of Physics, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu. Appointed in 2021 with a full-time position (1.00 FTE), he leads research in advanced functional materials with continuous affiliation since 2007 through various academic roles. His research focuses on sol-gel chemistry, hybrid electro-optical materials, and triboelectric nanogenerators . Key areas include optically transparent electrodes, electrically conductive polymers, biodegradable hydrogels, and micro/nanostructured oxide materials. His work bridges fundamental surface science with applications in energy harvesting, smart windows, and biomedical devices. Recent publications emphasize triboelectric charging mechanisms, sustainable polymer alternatives, and novel synthesis techniques for functional nanomaterials. His most significant research trends involve Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) for motion-based energy harvesting Surface charge control in polymers and composites Sol-gel derived optical and electroactive materials Biodegradable and tissue-mimicking materials for implantable devices No scientific awards or supervision activities are documented in his current faculty role. His research is supported by institutional frameworks at Tartu University's Institute of Physics, with historical connections to projects like ETF9007 (Nanotribology) and SF0180058s07 (Low-dimensional structures).
Harm-Anton Klok is a Full Professor at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) , affiliated with the School of Engineering (STI) and the Institute of Materials (IMX) . He actively contributes to teaching programs in Materials Science and Engineering, Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering, while leading the Polymers Laboratory. Email: harm-anton.klok@epfl.ch Main office: MXD 112, EPFL, Lausanne Research Interests: His work focuses on polymer design at the nanoscale , biologically-inspired polymers , and precision polymerization . The laboratory employs a bottom-up approach to develop advanced materials for optics, electronics, and medicine, emphasizing structure-property relationships. Key methods include controlled/living polymerization and automated synthesis, with characterization via scattering and microscopy. Scientific Recognition: Recognized as a Rising Star in polymer science by ACS Polymers Au in 2023 and 2022, highlighting his influence in materials research. Academic Contributions: He mentors numerous current and former PhD students and leads interdisciplinary teaching initiatives. His research spans polymer self-assembly, mechanochemistry, and biofunctional surfaces, with significant publication output in high-impact journals.
Marianna Kontopoulou is a Professor and Associate Dean (Academic) at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen’s University, Canada. She earned her PhD and MEng from McMaster University and Dipl. Eng from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Her research focuses on polymer blend and composite development for industrial applications, including automotive, additive manufacturing, and conductive polymers. 1999–Present: Faculty Member, Queen’s University 2013–2017: President, Canadian Society of Rheology 2008–2012: Vice President, Canadian Society of Rheology Her work involves polymer processing, reactive modification, and functional materials. She leads a lab equipped with advanced compounding, rheology, and materials characterization tools. She has co-authored over 150 publications and serves as Editor for the Americas of International Polymer Processing . Research Interests Development of graphene-based nanocomposites for electrical conductivity Bioplastics and sustainable polymer blends 3D printing of thermoplastic biopolyesters Mechanical and rheological properties of polymer foams Compatibilization techniques for immiscible polymer blends Microplastics characterization in environmental systems Scientific Awards 2010 Morand Lambla Award, Polymer Processing Society Laboratory & Facilities Her lab features Haake Polylab mixers, twin-screw extruders, DSM micro-compounder, 3D bioplotter, and advanced rheometers. She utilizes Queen’s Materials Characterization Lab for GPC, DSC, TGA, and mechanical testing.
Margaret J. Sobkowicz Kline is a Professor and Associate Chair - Doctoral Studies in the Plastics Engineering Department at the Francis College of Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell. Her research focuses on sustainable polymer science and engineering, with expertise in renewable polymers, plastics recycling, extrusion processing, nanocomposites, and green chemistry. She also serves as co-Director of the SWIMMER NRT program and participates in the UMass Lowell Climate Change Initiative. Dr. Sobkowicz Kline earned her B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Columbia University (2001) and her Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Colorado School of Mines (2010). After completing a National Research Council postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, she joined UMass Lowell in 2011. Her research group investigates innovative approaches to improve the environmental profile of plastics while maintaining performance characteristics. Current projects include high-speed reactive extrusion for hybrid chemical-mechanical recycling of multi-component polymer films, development of biodegradable polymers for agricultural applications with controlled release capabilities, and creation of thermally conductive polymer composites for heat exchange devices. Her work bridges fundamental polymer science with practical sustainability challenges. Analysis of her recent publications (2022-2024) reveals a strong focus on enzymatic depolymerization of PET, phase change materials for energy efficiency, and advanced recycling techniques for post-consumer plastics. Her research spans multiple disciplines including materials science, chemical engineering, environmental science, and polymer chemistry, with particular emphasis on creating circular economy solutions for plastic waste. Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) Foundation Fellow (2015) Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence (2015) CAREER Award from National Science Foundation (2014) Arthur B. Sacks Award (2010) National Research Council Postdoctoral Associateship Award (2009) Professor Sobkowicz Kline currently advises five graduate students working on various aspects of sustainable polymer science. Her lab utilizes advanced polymer processing equipment including high-speed extrusion systems. She collaborates extensively with industry partners through the REMADE institute and maintains active research connections with national laboratories and other academic institutions. Her work on 'Polymer Design for the Circular Economy' published in Science (2021) has influenced policy discussions around sustainable materials.
Dr. Friederike Adams is an accomplished researcher at the forefront of polymer chemistry and nanomedicine. She currently serves as an Independent Junior Research Group Leader at the University of Stuttgart and University of Tübingen, and as Deputy Professor at the Technical University of Munich since April 2025. Her research group "Precision Polymers for Pharmaceutics" operates as a joint initiative between the University of Stuttgart and the Schnichels Lab at the Eye Hospital Tübingen. Her research focuses on designing innovative drug delivery systems using sustainable materials, with particular emphasis on intelligent, bio-based and biodegradable polymers. The group specializes in sophisticated polymerization techniques including living-type polymerizations, block copolymerizations, and catalyst design. Key research areas encompass polymer analysis, drug and nucleic acid encapsulation, formulation development, and in vitro evaluation of nanoparticles. Professor Adams' recent publications demonstrate a strong trajectory in sustainable polymer chemistry and nanomedicine applications, particularly in ocular therapeutics. Her work on yttrium-mediated ring-opening polymerization of dihydrocarvide showcases her innovative approach to developing tunable terpene-based polyesters. Publication in Polymer Chemistry Emerging Investigators Series (2025) Wiley poster prize 2024 (with group members) Best oral communication award at IP'24 in Mainz Professor Adams actively supervises multiple PhD, Master's, and Bachelor students, providing them with opportunities to work at the cutting edge of polymer science and nanomedicine. Her research group benefits from substantial funding through the Excellence Strategy of the German Federal and State Governments, supporting their work on precision polymers for pharmaceutical applications. The "Precision Polymers for Pharmaceutics" lab maintains strong collaborative ties with biomedical researchers at the Eye Hospital Tübingen, ensuring their polymer research has direct relevance to therapeutic applications, particularly in ocular drug delivery systems.
Andrzej Gawlowski is a Professor at the University of Bielsko-Biala, Faculty of Materials, Civil and Environmental Engineering, with continuous employment since June 1991. His academic trajectory spans over three decades, establishing him as a specialist in advanced textile applications for engineering and medical challenges. His educational foundation includes: Master of Science in Textile Engineering (Lodz University of Technology, Bielsko-Biala Branch, 1991) PhD in Textile Engineering and Environmental Protection (Lodz University of Technology, Bielsko-Biala Branch, 2001) Professor title awarded by Lodz University of Technology (2019) Professor Gawlowski's research centers on the structural modification of synthetic fibers for enhanced functionality, particularly flame retardancy through nanoclay and inorganic treatments. His environmental engineering contributions focus on innovative geotextiles using wool and recycled materials for erosion control in slope stabilization and drainage systems. Biomedical applications form a significant secondary stream, examining textile interactions with human tissue in burn injuries and placental analysis using spectroscopic methods. This interdisciplinary approach creates tangible links between textile science and real-world engineering/medical problems. Analysis of his 31 publications (2016-2020) reveals consistent output with growing emphasis on sustainability. Recent works increasingly feature natural fibers like wool in geotextiles, advanced characterization techniques (FT Raman, SAXS), and biomedical collaborations. The research demonstrates strong continuity in flame retardancy studies while expanding into environmental applications and medical diagnostics, reflecting adaptive scholarship that bridges traditional textile engineering with contemporary sustainability and health challenges.
Dongming Xie is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Francis College of Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell. He also has an affiliation with the Center for Pathogen Research & Training (CPRT). Prior to joining UMass Lowell in 2016, Dr. Xie was a principal scientist at DuPont from 2006-2016, where he led the fermentation engineering team to commercialize the omega-3 project, resulting in two new commercial products for the company. Dr. Xie's educational background includes: Postdoc (2006), Michigan State University Postdoc (2002), Tsinghua University Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering (2000), Chinese Academy of Sciences - Beijing, China B.S. in Chemical Engineering (1992), East China University of Science & Technology - Shanghai, China Dr. Xie's research focuses on metabolic engineering, bioprocess engineering, and continuous biomanufacturing. His lab, the Bio manufacturing Science and Engineering Lab (BioSEL), aims to build biomanufacturing platforms for sustainable production of high-value products from renewable and economical feedstocks. His research spans three main areas: (1) metabolic engineering of the non-conventional yeast Yarrowia lipolytica for high-value products such as wax esters, carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids; (2) biodegradation and bioconversion of plastic wastes; and (3) fundamental science and engineering to achieve successful biomanufacturing at large scale. His work integrates advanced science and engineering tools including synthetic biology, fermentation engineering, bioprocess integration and intensification, and bioprocess modeling, optimization, and control strategies. Dr. Xie's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on sustainable biomanufacturing solutions, particularly in converting waste materials into valuable products. His research shows significant trends toward addressing environmental challenges through biotechnology, with particular emphasis on plastic waste recycling and sustainable production of omega-3 fatty acids. The interdisciplinary nature of his work bridges biochemical engineering, environmental science, and industrial biotechnology. Dr. Xie has received several prestigious awards: Teaching Excellence Award (2020), University of Massachusetts Lowell DuPont Bolton/Carothers Innovative Science Award (2014) DuPont Accomplishment Award (2008) Tsinghua University Distinguished Postdoc Award (2002) Dr. Xie actively mentors students at all levels, from undergraduate to PhD candidates. His research is supported by multiple grants from NSF, DOE, NIH, and industry partners. He has successfully secured funding for projects including "A New Yeast Biomanufacturing Platform for Making High-Value Products from Oils and Fats," "Bioconversion of Heterogeneous Polyester Wastes to High-Value Chemical Products," and "Integrated Continuous Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Utilizing Robust In-Line NIR Mediated Control." Dr. Xie leads the Bio manufacturing Science and Engineering Lab (BioSEL), which is part of the Massachusetts Biomanufacturing Center at UMass Lowell. The lab is equipped with state-of-the-art bioreactors ranging from 1.3L to 200L, advanced analytical equipment, and downstream purification systems. The lab collaborates with four principal investigators and is well-maintained by technical staff for continuous research and training activities.
