Minah Lee is a Postdoctoral Fellow at Georgia Tech's Electrical and Computer Engineering department. Her research integrates edge intelligence, energy-efficient computing, and reliable sensor platforms. Publications feature cross-layer hardware designs (AFE-CIM macro), cryogenic computing efficiency (Cool-CIM), and uncertainty estimation for neural accelerators. Recent work explores multi-agent dynamics and analog computing robustness.
Christoph Keller is a Visiting Professor at Leiden Observatory (Leiden University) and serves as Director of Science at Lowell Observatory. His career spans roles at the National Solar Observatory, Utrecht University, and Leiden University, where he focused on high-accuracy polarimetry for astronomy and environmental sensing, exoplanetary systems, solar physics, remote sensing, and interdisciplinary instrumentation. Education: PhD in Physics from ETH Zürich (1992), MSc in Physics from ETH Zürich (1988) Research Interests: His work bridges exoplanet characterization, innovative optical instruments, polarized light analysis, and remote sensing of planetary atmospheres. He has pioneered techniques in holographic aperture masking, vector-apodizing phase plates, and spectropolarimetry for detecting biosignatures like homochirality. Scientific Contributions: Recent publications highlight advancements in high-contrast imaging, adaptive optics, and life detection via polarization. His projects include the Planetary Camera and Spectrograph (PCS) for the ELT and the Life Signature Detection polarimeter (LSDpol). Scientific Awards: Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Award for astrophysics Advising and Projects: Supervised numerous PhD students and postdocs, including Rico Landman, Fedde Fagginger Auer, and Evangelia Kleisioti. Led projects like SPHERE+, LEXI, and the European Solar Telescope. His work integrates machine learning, optical design, and space-based instruments for exoplanet and solar research.
Vibhav Bharti serves as a Research Fellow in Computer Science at Heriot-Watt University's School of Mathematical & Computer Sciences. His work focuses on bridging theoretical machine learning with practical marine robotics applications, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals through technological innovation. Research interests span Autonomous Underwater Vehicles , Machine Learning reliability , and Marine Robotics systems . Key contributions include developing deep reinforcement learning frameworks for AUV docking, creating the Stonefish platform for marine ML research, and advancing multi-beam echo-sounder object detection. His fingerprint reveals expertise in underwater vehicle pipelines, sensor data processing, and learning-based assessment systems. Recent publications demonstrate a clear trajectory toward real-world implementation of simulation-trained AI systems, with strong emphasis on safety-critical applications. Work spans 2017-2025 with consistent output in top robotics conferences including OCEANS and TAROS. Collaborations show extensive international network in marine technology, particularly with researchers in underwater perception and machine learning validation. Current projects focus on enhancing reliability of ML components in autonomous systems and improving image quality assessment through edge detection techniques.
Dr. Michael Stelzig serves as a Researcher at the Institute of Microwaves and Photonics (LHFT) within the Department of Electrical-Electronic-Communication Engineering at Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg. His work focuses on advanced radar systems for environmental and extraterrestrial exploration. His research spans multiple high-impact domains: Development of ice-penetrating radar systems for glacial exploration UAV-based synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for subsurface imaging Radar signal processing for extraterrestrial applications Novel transponder technologies for radar calibration His recent publications demonstrate leadership in radar technology for both terrestrial glaciology and planetary science applications, particularly in Saturn's moon Enceladus exploration. His scientific contributions include: Design of hybrid radar-sonar systems for melting probes Lightweight radar platforms for glacial subsurface imaging Joint radar-communication waveform innovations Drone-based UHF-VHF radar systems for snow stratification analysis Stelzig's technical expertise bridges microwave engineering, signal processing, and field applications in extreme environments. His collaborative work with institutions like DLR (German Aerospace Center) highlights interdisciplinary approaches to complex exploration challenges.
Jonathan Roberts is a Professor in Robotics at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), affiliated with the School of Electrical Engineering & Robotics within the Faculty of Engineering. He serves as Director of the Australian Cobotics Centre and Technical Director of the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM Hub). His research focuses on Field Robotics, Medical Robotics, Performance Robotics, and Cobots. Roberts holds a PhD in Aerospace Systems Engineering from the University of Southampton (UK) and has extensive industry experience, including leading robotics projects at CSIRO. He co-invented the UAV Challenge Outback Rescue and pioneered the Museum Robot Project, earning awards such as the 2013 Australia and New Zealand Internet Award for Innovation. His work spans autonomous systems, surgical robotics, and cultural heritage mapping, with notable contributions to 3D mapping technologies like the Zebedee system. Roberts is an active editor for robotics journals and contributes to policy discussions on advanced manufacturing and robotics strategy. **Education**: PhD (University of Southampton, 1994), Honours in Aerospace Systems Engineering (1991). **Key Projects**: Australian Cobotics Centre, ARM Hub, UAV Challenge, Museum Robot Project, 3D mapping of heritage sites. **Awards**: Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (2017), BBC International News features (2014–2016). **Grants & Roles**: Chief Investigator at QUT Centre for Robotics, Deputy Research Director of Australian Research Centre for Aerospace Automation (2008–2013). **Labs/Teams**: QUT Centre for Robotics, collaborations with The University of Queensland and CSIRO. His research bridges robotics with healthcare, manufacturing, and cultural preservation, emphasizing human-robot collaboration and innovation.
Dr. Payam Nori Zadeh is a Research Fellow in AI and Robotics at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Centre for Robotics, a position he has held since May 2023. He actively collaborates on the pioneering Australia-USA joint project (AUSMURI) with institutions including MIT, Boston University, UNSW, and the University of Melbourne. Education: PhD in Computer Science from Victoria University of Wellington (2023), focusing on mobile robot navigation in outdoor terrains with slip and skid. Master’s in Robotics and Control from the University of Tehran, with thesis research on cooperative control of multiple mobile robots in cluttered environments. Dr. Nori Zadeh's research specializes in autonomous mobile robotics for challenging environments, integrating bio-inspired navigation strategies with advanced computer vision techniques for high-speed event cameras. His work addresses critical gaps in terrain adaptability and real-time perception: Mobile Robot Navigation under extreme slip/skid conditions in unstructured outdoor settings Computer Vision algorithms optimized for neuromorphic event cameras Bio-inspired control systems mimicking biological locomotion Cooperative multi-robot coordination in complex obstacle fields No public information is available regarding Dr. Nori Zadeh's student advising or grant funding activities. As a core contributor to the QUT Centre for Robotics, he operates within the AUSMURI project framework, leveraging international partnerships to advance autonomous systems research. Connect with Payam on his Scholar and LinkedIn profiles for further details about his research.
Steve Martin is a Researcher at the QUT Centre for Robotics, Queensland University of Technology. He holds a Bachelor of Mechatronics (QUT, 2009) and was a former PhD student under Professors Gordon Wyeth and Peter Corke at the QUT Cyphy Lab. Since rejoining QUT in 2016, he has contributed to the Australian Centre for Robotic Vision’s engineering projects, focusing on robotics maintenance, software development, and electrical design. His work spans diverse applications including autonomous agricultural systems for weed control, semi-automated power infrastructure inspection, and robotic coral reef monitoring. Key projects include the 'Mini Autonomous Vehicles' initiative (AOS: Kelpie) and coral reef surveillance systems. Research interests emphasize real-time perception, long-term robot navigation, and energy-efficient robotic systems. He has developed solutions for traversability mapping, proprioceptive sensing, and distributed object tracking. Notable contributions include pandemic-related ventilator design and light field camera adapters. Steve collaborates across disciplines, bridging robotics engineering with environmental and medical applications. Advising and grants: While no current advisees are listed, his PhD supervision experience at QUT and contributions to large-scale robotic projects highlight his mentorship role. He actively engages with industry partnerships, particularly in agricultural and infrastructure robotics. Labs/Teams: Core member of the QUT Centre for Robotics, contributing to cross-disciplinary research in autonomous systems and robotic vision.
Florian Michahelles is a Full Professor of Ubiquitous Computing at TU Wien, specializing in human-centered AI and IoT systems. He holds a Ph.D. from ETH Zurich and an MSc from Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich. His research focuses on integrating technology into everyday life while maintaining human control, including digital companions, AI-driven task optimization, and sustainable tech solutions. Roles include Full Professor in Artifact-based Design and User Research, Curriculum Coordinator for Human-Centered Computing, and Principal Member of TU Wien's Informatics department. He leads projects like the 'Eternity Bike' (self-balancing bicycle) and 'Urban-Engage' (citizen-driven urban planning). Education: Ph.D. (ETH Zurich), MSc (LMU Munich) Key Research Areas: Human-AI Collaboration, Wearable Tech, Sustainable Computing, Robotics Interaction Notable awards include the IoT 2023 Best Paper Award and the Ten Year Impact Award (MUM 2022). His work spans 20+ publications annually, addressing topics from textile interfaces to climate action systems. Active in entrepreneurship, he co-founded 42matters and advises on innovation management. His lab develops prototypes like the 'Smart Trash Can' and 'Skillab' AR training platform.
Florian Ferdinand Huemer is a PostDoc Researcher at the Embedded Computing Systems department (E191-02 Faculty Council Substitute Member) within the Faculty of Informatics at Vienna University of Technology. His work focuses on fault-tolerant asynchronous circuits, delay-insensitive communication protocols, and FPGA reliability analysis. BSc , Vienna University of Technology Dipl.-Ing. , Vienna University of Technology Dr.techn. , Vienna University of Technology Key research areas include: Fault-Tolerant Computing : Designing systems resilient to transient faults and radiation effects. Asynchronous Circuits : Developing quasi-delay-insensitive logic and Muller pipelines. Embedded Metrology : Applying polarization cameras and time-to-digital converters for industrial measurements. Recent publications address: 2024 : Polarization camera-based inline thickness measurement and FPGA ring oscillator synchronization. 2023 : Mitigating single-event transients in QDI logic. 2021 : Automated fault-injection frameworks and QDI pipeline sensitivity analysis. Projects funded by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF) during 2013-2018 explored self-stabilizing Byzantine fault-tolerant algorithms. Supervisions include: Haschke (2024): QDI adder comparison Spitzer (2024): Automated fault-injection framework Schwendinger (2022): Asynchronous circuit testing tools Pircher (2022): Smart SoC testing via IJTAG Behal (2021): QDI design template fault sensitivity
Dr. David Hamilton is an Adjunct Researcher at the University of Tasmania (School of Natural Sciences, Biological Sciences Department) and a Conservation Ecologist with the Tasmanian Land Conservancy. His work bridges behavioral ecology and conservation biology, focusing on how animal behavior informs effective management strategies. He holds a PhD from the University of Tasmania (2019), an MSc from Edinburgh Napier University, and a BSc Hons from the University of Aberdeen. Research interests include the behavioral drivers of disease transmission (e.g., devil facial tumour disease), translocation strategies for endangered species like the eastern quoll, and the ecological impacts of habitat modification. His projects often involve collaboration with UTAS researchers and applied work on TLC reserves. Key funded projects include Holsworth grants investigating eastern quoll translocations (2024–2028) and Tasmanian devil tumour dynamics (2015–2018). Recent publications emphasize wildlife monitoring techniques, invasive species management, and genomic analyses of disease impacts. His work contributes to both theoretical understanding and practical conservation outcomes. Grant involvement includes roles in projects totaling over $36,000, addressing translocation protocols and disease ecology. Supervision focuses on doctoral and honours students examining quoll translocation outcomes and population genetics. His interdisciplinary approach integrates behavioral, ecological, and genetic methodologies to address conservation challenges.
Professor Menna Jones is a Professor in Biological Sciences at the University of Tasmania's School of Natural Sciences. Her research focuses on conservation biology, ecological restoration, and the impacts of invasive species and disease on ecosystems. She leads projects investigating the eco-evolutionary dynamics of wildlife diseases, such as the transmissible cancer affecting Tasmanian devils, and the role of top predators in structuring ecosystems. Jones supervises numerous doctoral and master's students and teaches courses including KZA161 Biology of Animals and KPZ308 Biodiversity Conservation. Her research interests include trophic cascades, wildlife disease ecology, and the management of invasive species. She has secured significant grants from bodies like the Australian Research Council and the National Science Foundation, funding projects on predator-prey dynamics, invasive species control, and conservation genetics. Jones has been recognized by the Australian-American Fulbright Commission for her contributions to science. Her work spans field studies in Tasmania and beyond, addressing critical challenges in biodiversity conservation and ecological resilience. She collaborates with institutions globally to advance solutions for landscape-scale restoration and wildlife management.
Dr Alex Rast is a Senior Lecturer in Computing within the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics at Oxford Brookes University , where he also serves as Third-Year Tutor for all computing programmes. His career spans academic posts at the Universities of Manchester and Southampton and industry experience at wireless start-up Inficom, Inc. Education & Career Path A-level studies sparked lifelong interest in neural networks and neuromorphic hardware. Post-doctoral research at University of Manchester on cognitive robotics and neuromorphic chips. Research fellow at University of Southampton on large-scale parallel event-driven systems. Industry stint at Inficom working on control processors and modulation theory. Joined Oxford Brookes University, rising to Senior Lecturer while leading multiple research initiatives. Research Focus Dr Rast’s research integrates event-driven vision sensors with neuromorphic cognitive processors to create fully integrated autonomous neurorobotic systems capable of operating in unstructured natural environments. Core themes include: Real-time perception and SLAM for autonomous vehicles and racing robots. Large-scale spiking neural network models for learning and decision-making. Probabilistic temporal reasoning under uncertainty. Ethical decision-making and reinforcement learning for responsible AI agents. Novel applications such as neural models for fine-flavour cacao and chocolate assessment. Funding & Projects Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Supponor on advanced scene infilling systems. CLAIMOR (Co-I; British Academy, Apr–Nov 2025) developing comprehensive large AI models for mobile robotics. Active consultancy to the Oxford Brookes Racing (OBR) Autonomous racing team on perception and SLAM. Research Groups & Labs Visual Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (VAIL) Autonomous Driving and Intelligent Transport (ADIT) group Machine Learning and Robotics Group (MLR) Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis and Systems (AIDAS) Institute Institute for Ethical AI collaboration on ethical agents Teaching & Supervision Dr Rast is Third-Year Tutor for all computing programmes and teaches core AI and robotics modules: Artificial Intelligence (BSc, MSci, MSc), Cognitive Robotics, Autonomous Intelligent Systems, and Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineering. He supervises final-year projects and postgraduate research students in neuromorphic computing and autonomous systems.
Julian Hanich is a Professor of Film Studies at the University of Groningen, Faculty of Arts. His research focuses on film aesthetics, cinematic emotions, and film phenomenology, with particular interest in collective cinema experiences and the concept of beauty in film. He authored monographs like *The Audience Effect* and co-edited award-winning volumes such as *What Film Is Good: On the Values of Spectatorship*. Currently leading an NWO-funded project on cinematic beauty, his work bridges academic rigor with cultural critique. Education highlights include a PhD in Film Studies from Free University Berlin (2008), postdoctoral research at the Cluster of Excellence 'Languages of Emotion,' and teaching roles at institutions like UCLA and the International Film School Cologne. His career includes tenure-track positions at the University of Groningen since 2010. Research interests span film theory, cultural studies, and audience analysis, with recent projects exploring emotional responses to horror films, phenomenological approaches to cinema, and the intersection of film and imagination. His articles and reviews critique films like *Sherlock Holmes* (2009), *Far From Heaven* (2002), and *Ride with the Devil* (1999), analyzing their sociocultural implications. Awards include recognition for his edited volume on film spectatorship. Hanich also contributes to journalistic platforms, writing essays on film trends and director profiles (e.g., Michael Haneke, Atom Egoyan). His interdisciplinary approach reflects a commitment to both scholarly and public engagement with cinema.
Professor Mark Shortis is an Honorary Professor at RMIT University's STEM College and former Associate Professor in the School of Science. Specializing in photogrammetry, camera calibration, and optical metrology, he has contributed to aerospace model dynamics analysis with NASA, underwater marine ecology studies with the University of Western Australia, and solar energy research with the Australian National University. Retiring in 2020, he continues research in calibration algorithms for digital cameras. His career included roles as Associate Dean (Learning and Teaching) in RMIT's Faculty of Engineering and Dean (Academic Development) in the College of Science, Engineering, and Health. Research Interests: Close-range photogrammetry, underwater measurement systems, aerospace structural dynamics, solar concentrator characterization, and multi-camera calibration for industrial applications. His work bridges academic research with practical industrial and ecological challenges. Affiliations: RMIT University (Honorary Professor), former academic positions at University of Melbourne and RMIT across multiple faculties. Collaborations include NASA, CSIRO Marine Research, and Australian National University.
Dr. Sharmila Kayastha is an Associate Professor in the School of Science at RMIT University, Australia. Her primary affiliation is with the School of Science at RMIT's City Campus. She specializes in control engineering, robotics, and maritime engineering, with a strong focus on nonlinear control systems and their applications in space robotics, underwater vehicles, and precision instrumentation. Her research interests span post-impact motion control of space robots, flexible manipulator dynamics, nonlinear control for underwater vehicles, and advanced actuation techniques using piezoelectric materials. She has co-authored influential papers on topics such as trajectory tracking control for robot arms, robust coordinated control of dual-arm space robots, and state-dependent Ricatti equation control for satellite cameras. Dr. Kayastha's publications demonstrate expertise in integrating theoretical control methodologies with practical engineering challenges in aerospace and maritime systems. Her work bridges fundamental control theory with applied robotics, emphasizing precision, robustness, and adaptability in dynamic environments. Her research outputs include studies on model predictive control for space manipulators, disturbance-rejection mechanisms for underwater vehicles, and innovative solutions for spacecraft camera stabilization using piezoelectric actuators. These contributions highlight her interdisciplinary approach to solving complex control problems in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial contexts.
