Monica Mars is an Associate Professor at Wageningen University & Research specializing in Sensory Science and Eating Behaviour . Her research explores the interplay between taste perception, food intake regulation, and metabolic health. Academic Focus: Taste physiology, sugar metabolism, obesity prevention, and food processing impacts Key Collaborations: Projects with Dutch institutions, UK researchers, and international teams Her research spans pediatric dietary patterns , prediabetic interventions , and gastric digestion mechanisms . Recent work includes studies on: L-arabinose's effects on glycemic responses Sweetness exposure in early childhood Smart utensils for eating behavior modification She contributes to public health initiatives like BigO for childhood obesity and SPLENDID chewing detection systems. Notable co-promoted PhDs include projects on: Sweet spot in food regulation Savoury taste exposure Low-literacy health interventions
Justin Bosch is an Assistant Professor of Human Genetics at the University of Utah, specializing in inter-organ communication via circulating proteins and hormones. His lab employs advanced experimental and computational tools such as TurboID proximity labeling, CRISPR genome engineering, mass spectrometry, and AI-driven protein interaction modeling to unravel systemic signaling networks in Drosophila and human systems. B.S., University of Wisconsin–Madison Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley Research focuses on: Mapping tissue-specific origins and destinations of blood proteins using proximity labeling enzymes Developing AI-powered pipelines for hormone-receptor interaction discovery Characterizing novel inter-organ factors regulating body size and synaptic strength Advancing CRISPR-based tools for precise genome modifications in Drosophila Elucidating molecular mechanisms of hormone-receptor binding specificity Publications highlight his interdisciplinary approach combining proteomics, computational biology, and Drosophila genetics to address fundamental questions in inter-organ communication. Key methodologies include TurboID for secretome mapping, GPU-accelerated AlphaFold interaction screens, and modular vector assembly for CRISPR applications. His lab actively recruits researchers for high-risk/high-reward projects, particularly postdocs for computational pipeline development and graduate students for factor characterization. Collaborative work spans institutions including Harvard Medical School and Broad Institute, with affiliations to the University of Utah Center for High Performance Computing.
Professor Kelly Hughes is affiliated with the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Utah. His research focuses on microbial genetics and genetic approaches to complex biological processes, particularly the assembly and function of bacterial flagella and type-III secretion systems in Salmonella enterica. B.S. University of California, Irvine Ph.D. University of Utah His work investigates the molecular mechanisms of bacterial motility, including the role of structural scaffolds, molecular rulers, and the coupling of gene expression to organelle assembly stages. He also explores regulatory interactions between flagellar assembly and virulence gene expression in Salmonella. Recent publications highlight studies on flagellar basal body structure (2021), genetic code optimization (2017), Salmonella virulence dynamics (2020), and type-III secretion system mechanics (2018, 2017). Research spans microbiology, structural biology, and molecular genetics. Professor Hughes collaborates extensively with researchers like Martin Erhardt, Florence Chevance, and Susan Le Guyon. His laboratory maintains a strong focus on bacterial motility and pathogenesis through genetic and biochemical approaches. Contact: kelly.hughes@utah.edu
Dr. Qi Chen is an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of California, Riverside and joined the University of Utah School of Medicine in 2023. His research bridges molecular biology and epigenetic inheritance , focusing on how paternal health influences offspring via sperm RNA modifications . Education : MD (Chongqing Medical University), PhD (Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences) Dr. Chen pioneered the discovery of tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) and rRNA-derived small RNAs (rsRNAs) as epigenetic carriers in intergenerational disease transmission . His work demonstrates how paternal diet, toxin exposure, and metabolic conditions alter RNA profiles to affect offspring health via RNA structural modifications . Recent publications (2025-2023) highlight his innovations in PANDORA-seq and MLC-seq technologies for RNA analysis, revealing novel roles for mitochondrial tsRNAs in Alzheimer's, RNA-TLR interactions in inflammation, and RNA decapping enzymes in immune signaling. Scientific Awards Keynote Lecture at EMGS 2024 George E. Seidel Jr. Keynote (IETS 2023) Highly Cited Researcher (2019) Chinese Academy of Sciences Fellowship (2013) His lab develops tools like SPORTS1.0 and PANDORA-seq to decode the 'sperm RNA code' and explore RNA structural memory propagation through biomolecular condensates . Current NIH/NICHD R01 funding supports ongoing investigations into RNA modification-mediated epigenetic inheritance .
Adjunct Associate Professor Mandy Muller of the University of Massachusetts Amherst Department of Microbiology studies how gamma-herpesviruses—particularly Kaposi’s Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus (KSHV)—re-shape host RNA metabolism to enable lifelong infection. Her NIH-funded group combines genome-wide sequencing, molecular virology and cell biology to uncover how viral nucleases target host mRNAs and how select antiviral transcripts escape decay. Education: PhD in Virology, Pasteur Institute (2013) Research Interests: Muller’s work centers on the interface of viral pathogenesis and RNA biology. She investigates (i) virus-induced mRNA degradation, (ii) host restriction factors that withstand this decay, (iii) epitranscriptomic modifications such as m6A that protect transcripts, and (iv) innate antiviral proteins like Shiftless that block viral gene expression and P-body dissolution. These studies illuminate fundamental cell-biology questions while identifying new targets for antiviral therapy. Publication Trends: Since 2019 her team has published >20 papers dissecting KSHV–host RNA interactions, revealing viral endonuclease substrates, RNA escape elements, and antiviral restriction mechanisms. The portfolio spans high-resolution molecular studies to genome-wide screens, consistently highlighting how herpesviruses hijack or evade host RNA regulatory networks. Grants & Awards: NIH MIRA R35 ($1.9 M, 2020-2025) Multiple trainee awards including Curt Thorne and David Pollack prizes Best talk & poster recognitions at regional meetings Advising & Mentorship: Nine PhD students have defended under her mentorship since 2021 (Yadi Bermudez, Jacob Miles, Tarah, Shai, David, Dr. MacVeigh-Fierro, Will Rodriguez, Jake, Tim), together with numerous MS and undergraduate researchers. Her laboratory emphasizes both research excellence and inclusive teaching, earning a CNS Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion group award. Laboratory & Outreach: The Muller Lab relocated to the Institute of Microbiology at the University of Lausanne (IMUL) in May 2025, continuing its work on viral RNA biology. Muller also engages in public communication through weekly radio segments (“The Muller Report”) separating virology fact from fiction for general audiences.
Candace Lang is a Professor at the School of Engineering , Macquarie University , affiliated with the MQ Photonics Research Centre and BioFocus Research Centre . She also maintains collaborations with the Transforming Energy Markets Research Centre and Pollinator Futures Research Centre .
Massimo Bellomi is a Researcher at the Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology of the University of Milan. Specializes in Radiomics , Medical Imaging , and Cancer Diagnosis Contributor to WB-MRI standardization and Lung/Prostate Cancer imaging protocols Research Trends: Analysis of 15 recent publications (2019-2021) reveals focus on: Development of radiomics models for cancer aggressiveness prediction Comparison of MRI/CT techniques for surgical margin and lymph node assessment Standardization of whole-body MRI reporting systems (MET-RADS-P) Integration of artificial intelligence in diagnostic imaging workflows Collaborations: Works extensively with multidisciplinary teams including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and clinical researchers. Key partnerships with institutions like European Institute of Oncology and Humanitas Research Hospital .
Hirotaka Sakaue serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame, where he also holds the position of Director of Inclusive Excellence and Engagement. His interdisciplinary research program integrates fluid mechanics and chemistry to develop novel sensing and flow control technologies for aerospace and environmental applications. His academic credentials include: Ph.D. in Philosophy (Aeronautics and Astronautics), Purdue University, 2003 M.S. in Engineering, Purdue University, 1999 B.S. in Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 1996 Prof. Sakaue's primary research areas are luminescent imaging and chemical flow control . In luminescent imaging, he develops nano-structured sensors that provide time-resolved, spatially resolved measurements of chemical species (e.g., oxygen, hydrogen, CO2) and physical parameters (pressure, temperature). His chemical flow control research focuses on using functional chemicals and micro-structured surfaces (such as superhydrophobic coatings) to manipulate fluid flows and prevent ice accumulation on critical surfaces like aircraft wings. These efforts contribute to advancements in energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and aerospace safety. Analysis of his recent publications (2019-2020) reveals a concentrated effort in experimental techniques for flow control and measurement. Key themes include the application of microfiber coatings for drag reduction, superhydrophobic surfaces for ice prevention, and luminescent methods for hypersonic flow diagnostics. His work consistently bridges fundamental fluid dynamics with practical engineering solutions, particularly in the aerospace domain. No specific scientific awards or fellowships are mentioned in the provided texts. Details regarding Prof. Sakaue's graduate student advising and external grant funding sources were not included in the source material. However, his active laboratory and collaborative research projects suggest ongoing engagement in both areas. The Sakaue Laboratory at Notre Dame provides specialized facilities for developing and characterizing chemical sensors and coatings. The lab's research follows a structured three-step process: (1) development of novel chemical sensors/coatings, (2) rigorous characterization of these materials, and (3) application to solve complex fluid science problems. Current projects span four signature areas: Flow Measurement, Chemical Flow Control, Bio/Biomedical applications, and Green Energy/Environment, often in partnership with external organizations.
Maxine Craig is a Professor in the Sociology Department at the University of California, Davis, with cross-disciplinary affiliations in Cultural Studies, Performance Studies, and designated emphases in Feminist Theory & Research and African American Studies. Her research centers on the intersections of gender, race, and embodiment through qualitative analyses of everyday practices. Education: Ph.D. in Sociology, University of California, Berkeley Her research interests critically examine beauty politics, racialized gender, and embodied experiences, with particular focus on Black women's cultural practices. She investigates how beauty standards function as social control mechanisms while simultaneously serving as sites of resistance, analyzing historical shifts from 20th-century beauty salons to contemporary digital aesthetics. Her work bridges micro-level interactions with macro-level political structures, revealing how bodily practices reflect and reshape societal power dynamics. Recent publications (2015-2024) consistently explore beauty as political terrain, with recurring themes of aesthetic citizenship, state power, and racialized embodiment. Articles like "Perfect smiles, aesthetic citizenship" (2024) and "Orthodontics as expected beauty work" (2021) demonstrate her innovative methodology connecting mundane beauty practices to systemic inequalities, while collaborative works like "The Routledge companion to beauty politics" (2021) establish foundational frameworks for the field. Scientific Awards: 2014 Best Publication Award by American Sociological Association’s section on Body and Embodiment Best Book of 2002 by American Political Science Association’s Section on Race, Ethnicity, and Politics Dr. Craig has advised numerous graduate students in Sociology and interdisciplinary programs, with research often focusing on embodiment and cultural production. Her grant-funded projects have enabled longitudinal studies of beauty practices across diverse populations, contributing methodological innovations in studying categories "in motion" as demonstrated in her 2019 publication. She actively participates in UC Davis' Gender Research Cluster and contributes to collaborative projects examining the global dimensions of beauty politics, including comparative analyses of presidential embodiment and transnational beauty standards.
Miriam M. Bildt serves as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Groningen, specializing in the intersection of dentistry and psychology. With dual qualifications as a dentist (DDS) and psychologist (MSc), Dr. Bildt focuses on the treatment of highly anxious dental patients and the management of patients with various mental health conditions in dental settings. Her work bridges clinical dentistry with psychological approaches to improve patient care experiences at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG). Dr. Bildt's educational background includes a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), a Master of Science in Psychology, and a doctoral degree (indicated by 'dr.' in her Dutch credentials). Her professional memberships include VMBZ, COBijT, and NIP, reflecting her dual expertise in both dental and psychological fields. These credentials position her uniquely to address the complex challenges of dental anxiety and mental health conditions in clinical practice. Her research primarily centers on psychological aspects of dental care, with particular emphasis on managing dental anxiety, treating patients with mental health disorders, and addressing specialized challenges such as gagging problems and body dysmorphic disorder in dental contexts. Dr. Bildt has developed systematic approaches for sedation techniques, communication strategies, and behavioral interventions specifically tailored for anxious dental patients. Her influential 'Psychische stoornissen in de mondzorgpraktijk' (Mental Disorders in Dental Practice) series demonstrates how psychological principles can be effectively integrated into routine dental practice to improve patient outcomes and experiences. Analysis of Dr. Bildt's publication record reveals a clear trajectory from molecular dental research (particularly in periodontics and orthodontics around 2006-2009) toward psychological aspects of dental care (2015-present). Her recent work focuses almost exclusively on mental health conditions in dental practice, with publications addressing specific disorders including substance use disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and general mental health conditions. This evolution reflects a growing recognition of the importance of psychological factors in comprehensive dental care and represents a significant contribution to making dental services accessible to previously underserved patient populations. Dr. Bildt actively contributes to professional discourse through presentations at conferences such as the VMTI Congres 2023 and specialized talks on gagging problems in dental practice. Her collaborative work extends across dental and psychological disciplines, demonstrating interdisciplinary approaches to patient care challenges. Her research has been cited in multiple studies, particularly her work on peri-implantitis risk factors and dental anxiety management techniques.
Tammy Cashwell serves as an Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of Counseling at Wake Forest University, where she has contributed to academic and clinical training since 2013. Her work bridges traditional counseling methodologies with innovative holistic approaches to address diverse client needs across educational and mental health settings. Her educational foundation includes: PhD in Counselor Education from Mississippi State University MS in School Counseling from Mississippi State University BS in Health Education from Appalachian State University Cashwell's research centers on mindfulness, animal-assisted therapy, trauma recovery, spiritual dimensions in counseling (particularly the spiritual feminine), and academic workplace dynamics. She investigates how integrative practices like yoga and biofeedback enhance therapeutic efficacy while examining ethical considerations in value-laden therapeutic contexts. Her scholarship consistently emphasizes culturally responsive care and counselor self-awareness. Analysis of her publications reveals sustained exploration of complementary therapeutic modalities (biofeedback, yoga, play therapy), ethical spirituality integration, and multicultural competence. Her work demonstrates progression from foundational school counseling interventions toward sophisticated mind-body approaches, reflecting evolving trends in holistic mental health treatment while maintaining focus on counselor education and supervision efficacy. Her professional recognition includes: June Comola Scholarship from the Mississippi Counseling Association Chi Sigma Iota ACA Best Practices Award Cashwell maintains active clinical practice alongside academia, having served as a school counselor at Sudduth Elementary and Reagan High School, a child/adolescent therapist at Daymark Recovery Services, and provider at Mississippi State Counseling Lab. Her conference presentations address contemporary issues like highly sensitive populations, self-compassion training, and wellness implementation, demonstrating commitment to translating research into practical counselor development. Professional memberships span ACA, ASCA, ACES, and NCCA, reflecting engagement across counseling subdisciplines.
Professor David Officer is a distinguished academic in the field of Organic Chemistry at the University of Wollongong, where he holds a position as Professor in Organic Chemistry within the Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, part of the Australian Institute for Innovative Materials. He has established himself as a leading researcher in polymer science, nanomaterials, and energy conversion technologies with over 220 publications and 20 patents to his name. Professor Officer received his PhD in Chemistry from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand in 1982. His academic journey includes significant research work at The Australian National University in Canberra and a prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship at the University of Cologne in Germany. In 1986, he joined Massey University in New Zealand, where he spent 21 years and became the founding Director of the Nanomaterials Research Centre in 2001. He also served as a founding Principal Investigator in the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology. Professor Officer's research spans multiple cutting-edge areas in materials science and chemistry. His work focuses on: Graphene and porphyrin chemistry Conducting polymers and organic electronics Nanomaterials for energy applications Solar cell technology and photovoltaic devices Electrochemical systems and energy storage Biomedical applications of advanced polymers His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward developing functional materials for energy conversion and storage, with particular emphasis on graphene-based systems, conducting polymers for bioelectronics, and novel approaches to solar energy harvesting. The research demonstrates increasing interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating chemistry, materials science, and engineering to address challenges in sustainable energy and biomedical applications. Professor Officer has received recognition for his contributions to science, including: Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship He has successfully secured substantial research funding from major national and international bodies, including multiple Australian Research Council grants. His current projects focus on blue energy harvesting, advanced composites for space applications, and bioelectronics. Professor Officer actively supervises PhD students working on topics ranging from biopolymer nanofibrils for ion selective membranes to integrated solar rechargeable redox flow batteries. Professor Officer has played leadership roles in significant research infrastructure, including the ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science (ACES) where he led the Electromaterials Theme, and the Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF) at the University of Wollongong where he oversees organic materials synthesis in the Materials Node.
Minka Stoyanova is an Assistant Teaching Professor at the Becker School of Design & Technology, Clark University. Her research focuses on cyborg theory, digital and interactive media, and their societal impacts. She holds a PhD in Creative Media from City University of Hong Kong (2019) and an MFA from The Glasgow School of Art (2012), alongside degrees in Applied Computing and Studio Photography from Tulane University and the University of New Orleans. Dr. Stoyanova’s work explores urban media augmentation, marginalized community histories, and the intersection of technology with identity. She has presented globally at venues like Transmediale (Berlin) and the International Symposium on Electronic Art (ISEA), and her creative works include site-specific installations and digital art exhibitions. Awards include the NSF Computing Innovation Fellowship (2021–2022) and Fulbright research program participation. Her recent projects include investigations into architectural heritage preservation through digital technologies, as well as studies on crossplay aesthetics and maker culture. Grants and exhibitions highlight her interdisciplinary approach, blending art, technology, and critical theory.
Alexandre Persat is an Associate Professor at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) within the School of Engineering (SV). He holds academic roles in multiple departments, including the Department of Life Sciences Engineering and leads the Persat Lab (UPPERSAT). His research focuses on microbiology, mechanobiology, and biophysics, with a particular emphasis on protein aggregation and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's. Education details are not explicitly provided, but his professional roles indicate advanced academic training in life sciences. His work bridges molecular mechanisms of protein misfolding and their cellular consequences, with implications for disease modeling and therapeutic development. Research interests include the mechanical interactions between bacteria and surfaces, biofilm formation, and the role of biomechanical forces in pathogenesis. Key awards include the Egon Naef Prize (2024) and the Philanthropia Foundation Prize (2025), recognizing his contributions to biophysical research. Persat supervises over 10 doctoral students, including Tania Distler and Alice Cont, and has authored influential papers on α-synuclein aggregation and O-GlcNAc modification effects. His lab (UPPERSAT) explores interdisciplinary approaches to understand mechanobiological processes in both microbial and neuronal contexts.
Dr. Desiree Sierra-Velez serves as Medical Director of the Adolescent Weight Loss (Bariatric) Surgery Program and Attending Physician in the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Boston Children's Hospital. She is an Instructor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. Her clinical specialties include pediatric obesity, bariatric surgery, growth problems, allergic colitis, celiac disease, eosinophilic esophagitis, and nutritional disorders. She completed medical training at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine (2015), residency at Nicklaus Children's Hospital (2018), and fellowships at MassGeneral Hospital for Children (2021) and Boston Children's Hospital (2022). She is board-certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Gastroenterology. Dr. Sierra-Velez leads the Healthy Weight Clinic's pediatric weight management initiatives under the Massachusetts-CORD 3.0 program.
