Find Academic Supervisors

• Food Chemistry
• Lipid Oxidation
• Oxidative Stability
• +7 more

Marie Hennebelle is an Associate Professor in Food Chemistry at Wageningen University & Research, where she conducts cutting-edge research on lipid oxidation, oxidative stability of vegetable oils, and plant-based emulsion systems. Her work integrates advanced analytical techniques such as NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry to understand food degradation and preservation mechanisms. Her research interests span Food Chemistry , Lipid Oxidation , Oxidative Stability , Vegetable Oils , NMR Spectroscopy , and Plant-Based Emulsions . She investigates the chemical behavior of lipids in complex food matrices, particularly focusing on oleosomes and triacylglycerol isomerism. The recent articles highlight a strong trend in analytical food chemistry, particularly in the application of NMR and mass spectrometry for lipid profiling. Her work bridges fundamental chemistry with practical food science, aiming to improve shelf life, nutritional quality, and sustainability of plant-based food products. Co-promotor, CULTURE project: Targeted feeding of adipose cultures for sustainable meat alternatives Co-promotor, PhD on milk fat globule membrane functionality Co-promotor, PhD on plant-based alternatives to milk fat globule membranes Co-promotor, PhD on antioxidative effects of plant protein compounds Co-promotor, PhD on omega-3 oils and gut-brain health Dr. Hennebelle collaborates extensively within Wageningen University, particularly with researchers such as J.P. Vincken, J.P.M. van Duynhoven, and K. Hettinga. Her lab is involved in multiple active and funded projects focused on sustainable food systems, lipid carriers, and plant-based alternatives, positioning her at the forefront of innovative food science research.

Ilja K. VoetsView profile

Professor

• Soft Matter Physics
• Polymer Science
• Colloidal Self-Assembly
• +6 more

Ilja K. Voets is a Full Professor at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, leading the Self-Organizing Soft Matter research group. She is also a Core member of the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS). Her academic journey began at Wageningen University & Research where she earned her PhD cum laude in 2008, followed by postdoctoral research at the Aldolphe Merkle Institute in Switzerland. Since 2011, she has been at TU/e, becoming a full professor in 2018. Her educational background includes Molecular Sciences at Wageningen University & Research, with a PhD focusing on micellisation in dilute aqueous solutions of oppositely charged double hydrophilic block copolymers. She was supervised by dr. Arie de Keizer and prof. Martien A. Cohen Stuart. Professor Voets leads an interdisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, biologists, and engineers studying self-assembly processes in biological soft matter. Her research focuses on colloidal self-organization, polymer assembly and folding, and protein biophysics, with particular interest in ice-binding proteins that help organisms survive in extreme cold environments. She investigates how to control intra- and intermolecular copolymer assembly to develop novel functional soft materials, artificial enzymes, and strategies to enhance colloidal stability. A key challenge in her work involves orchestrating colloidal self-assembly with remote cues such as light and temperature. Her recent publications reveal a strong focus on antifreeze proteins, colloidal assembly, and nanoparticle technology, with significant contributions to understanding ice-binding mechanisms and developing novel soft materials. The research demonstrates consistent high-impact output across prestigious journals including PNAS, Angewandte Chemie, and Biomacromolecules. Ambizione Award (2010) : Recognizing early-career research excellence DMS Science and Technology Award (2009) : For significant contributions to materials science ERC Consolidator Grant (2021) : Supporting advanced research in ice-binding protein-polymers Ice-binding protein-polymers project (2016) : Focused on control over ice growth in soft materials Innovative peptide system award (2019) : For novel drug targeting approaches Professor Voets supervises numerous research projects and students, teaching courses including Biological Physics, Physical Chemistry, and Experimental Soft Matter. Her research group is affiliated with the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven Polymer Laboratories, and the Gravity Program Functional Molecular Systems. Industry collaborations include DSM, Kemetyl, and Unilever, demonstrating the practical applications of her fundamental research. Her work contributes significantly to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to responsible consumption, climate action, and life below water.

• Biomaterials
• Microbiology
• Biomaterial-associated infections
• +5 more

Hendrik Jan (Henk) Busscher is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Groningen, affiliated with the Faculty of Medical Sciences and the W.J. Kolff Institute. His research focuses on biomaterial-associated infections, microbial adhesion mechanisms, and surface modification strategies to prevent biofilm formation on medical implants. He has held leadership roles, including Head of the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Director-owner of consulting firm SASA BV, and serves as Editor of Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces . Research interests include physico-chemical interactions of biomaterials with biological components, antibiotic resistance, and nanotechnology applications in infection control. He has supervised over 79 PhD students and authored >636 publications, achieving an H-index of 58. Key contributions span biofilm dynamics, surface characterization techniques, and in vitro/in vivo infection models. His work emphasizes translational research, bridging academic and industrial partnerships in biomaterials innovation. Recent studies explore quantum dot synthesis for biomedical applications, pH-responsive drug delivery systems, and magnetic nanoparticle-based antibacterial strategies. Collaborations include global institutions and companies like Philips and Procter & Gamble. His interdisciplinary approach addresses sustainable healthcare challenges, particularly in preventing infections from medical devices.

Henny van der MeiView profile

Professor

• Biomaterials
• Microbiology
• Biofilm Research
• +3 more

Prof. Henny van der Mei is a Full Professor at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Medical Sciences, affiliated with the Man, Biomaterials and Microbes (MBM) department. His research focuses on biomaterial-associated infections, bacterial adhesion, and biofilm formation. He holds editorial roles at Colloids and Surfaces; Biofilms and FEMS Reviews Microbiology . Research Interests: Van der Mei's work centers on understanding how modified biomaterial surfaces influence bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation. Key areas include antimicrobial strategies for medical implants, nanotechnology applications in infection control, and the development of novel antibiofilm agents. His expertise spans biomaterials science, microbiology, and biomedical engineering. Recent Articles: His most recent studies explore carbon quantum dots for antimicrobial applications, macrophage interactions with Staphylococcus aureus, and single-atom catalysts for antibacterial therapy. He has published over 680 articles, with a focus on biofilm dispersal mechanisms and nanomaterial-based solutions to antibiotic resistance. Awards: While no specific awards are listed, his extensive research output and editorial roles highlight significant contributions to the field. Grants/Advising: Supervised over 100 works and actively participates in global initiatives like the European Water Tech Week. His activities include keynote speaking at conferences on biofilms, biomaterials, and water technology. Labs/Teams: Leads research in antimicrobial biomaterials and biofilm control at the UMCG, collaborating internationally on projects addressing infections in medical devices and water systems.

• Food Colloids
• Interfacial Rheology
• Plant Protein Functionalization
• +3 more

Jack Yang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Food Science at Wageningen University & Research, specializing in the Physics and Physical Chemistry of Foods. His research focuses on interfacial phenomena in food systems, particularly plant protein functionalization, oleosome membrane mechanics, and foam/emulsion stabilization. He leads multiple interdisciplinary projects combining physics, data science, and food technology. Key research interests include: Interfacial rheology of plant proteins and phospholipids Stabilization mechanisms in food foams and emulsions Utilization of plant-based ingredients (rapeseed, mung bean, asparagus) Development of sustainable food processing methods Recent work emphasizes protein-phenolic interactions, AI-driven food system modeling, and valorization of agricultural by-products. He collaborates extensively with industry partners on plant protein innovation and has pioneered methods for high-yield oleosin extraction. Current projects include large language model applications in food product development and physics-encoded neural networks for prediction of complex food systems. As a co-promotor for seven PhD candidates, Yang supervises research on topics like functional protein-extract interactions, microstructure imaging of protein interfaces, and combining physics with data science for functionality prediction. His work bridges fundamental colloid science with practical food formulation challenges.

• Mechanical Metamaterials
• Soft Matter Physics
• Pattern Formation and Chaos
• +7 more

Prof. dr. Martin van Hecke is a group leader at the FOM Institute AMOLF in Amsterdam and a professor of physics at Leiden University. He obtained his PhD in theoretical physics from Leiden University in 1996 and has since led interdisciplinary research at the intersection of experiments, simulations, and theory in soft matter and mechanical metamaterials. Professor of Physics, Leiden University Part-time Group Leader, AMOLF PI of the 'Designer Matter' and 'Modern Mechanics' initiatives His research focuses on harnessing disorder and frustration in materials to design systems where complex behavior emerges, particularly in mechanical metamaterials capable of storing and processing information. Key areas include pattern formation, origami-inspired design, jamming, and the inverse problem in material science. Notable scientific awards include the Vici grant (2011) and the ERC-Advanced grant (2021). His group at AMOLF actively trains PhD students such as Bernat Dura Faulí, Colin Meulblok, and Margot Teunisse, while pioneering collaborations in programmable materials and soft robotics. Selected publications highlight his work on emergent memory , geometric control , non-Abelian mechanics , and information processing in materials . His research infrastructure leverages the AMOLF NanoLab and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) facilities.

Laura RossiView profile

Assistant Professor

• Materials Science
• Colloidal Chemistry
• Magnetic Colloids
• +3 more

Dr. Laura Rossi is an Assistant Professor at the Chemical Engineering Department of Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), Faculty of Applied Sciences. Her research bridges chemistry, physics, and engineering to design complex colloidal particles for self-assembly of novel functional materials, with a focus on magnetic colloids and their applications in mechanical, optical, and therapeutic systems. B.Sc. in Chemistry, University of Pavia (2005) M.Sc. in Chemistry and Physics, Utrecht University PhD in Physical Chemistry, Utrecht University (2012) Postdoctoral work at University of California, Los Angeles (2013) Veni grant recipient at University of Amsterdam (2015) Her research group explores in- and out-of-equilibrium assembly of colloidal particles , aiming to create materials with tailored properties. Key themes include: Development of novel techniques for colloidal synthesis Self-assembly mechanisms in magnetic colloids Design of functional materials for optical and therapeutic applications She contributes to educational programs at TU Delft, including courses in Advanced Inorganic Chemistry (AIE) and Materials Technology Project (MTP). Her work is supported by institutional funding and the Veni grant.

Naresh KumarView profile

Assistant Professor

• Biogeochemistry
• Bioremediation
• Environmental Geochemistry
• +6 more

Dr. Naresh Kumar is an Assistant Professor at Wageningen University & Research, specializing in Soil Chemistry and Chemical Soil Quality. He previously held roles as a Junior Group Leader at the University of Vienna (2018–2021) and a Postdoc at Stanford University (2014–2018), following his PhD in Earth Sciences from CEREGE - Aix-Marseille University, France (2010–2013). His research focuses on Biogeochemistry , Bioremediation , Chemical Speciation , and Contaminant Dynamics . Key projects include studying PFAS in soils and developing predictive models for nutrient management and pollutant behavior. He teaches courses such as Environmental Analytical Techniques and Soil Pollution and Protection . Publications highlight advancements in understanding DNA-mineral interactions, redox-driven colloid mobility, and innovative waste-to-resource solutions like aluminium dross for eutrophication control. His work bridges laboratory studies with field applications, emphasizing sustainable environmental management. Labs/Teams: Head of the Soil Chemistry and Chemical Soil Quality subdivision, coordinating interdisciplinary research on environmental geochemistry and bioremediation strategies.

• Food Science
• Animal Nutrition
• Protein Digestibility
• +4 more

Peter Wierenga is an Assistant Professor in the Animal Nutrition department at Wageningen University under the VLAG Graduate School. His research focuses on food chemistry, protein digestibility, and health impacts of food processing. Current projects: Sustainable Plant Fractionation , Protein Digestibility in Fish , ATI Protein Modification . Specializes in glycation , lipid oxidation , and enzyme inhibition in food systems. Recent publications analyze amylase trypsin inhibitors in immune activation, protein crosslinking in aquaculture, and postbiotic metabolomics . Collaborations span wheat allergy, fish nutrition, and emulsion science. Supervises PhD candidates including Diefenbach , Roijakkers , and Krouch with 17 supervised works listed. No formal awards noted in the provided texts.

Jasper van der GuchtView profile

Professor

• Physical Chemistry
• Soft Matter Physics
• Biopolymer Mechanics
• +3 more

Prof. Jasper van der Gucht is a Professor of Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter at Wageningen University & Research. He leads an interdisciplinary group focused on understanding the microscopic mechanisms governing the mechanical properties and functionality of soft materials, particularly biopolymers and colloidal systems. His research combines experimental characterization, theoretical modeling, and computer simulations to address topics like polymer materials based on electrostatic interactions, structure formation in drying films, and fracture mechanics of biopolymer networks. Education & Teaching: He teaches courses in Advanced Soft Matter, Colloid Science, General Chemistry, and Winter School Physical Chemistry. He supervises MSc and BSc theses in Physical Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Molecular Life Sciences. Research Interests: His work spans biopolymer mechanics, colloidal science, rheology, and material design. Key themes include the mechanics of soft granular materials, phase segregation in pastes, and sustainable materials for food applications. He employs advanced techniques like laser speckle imaging and microfluidics. Ancillary Activities: He serves as a representative of WUR in the Dutch Physics Council (2023–2026), coordinates postgraduate courses, and is Chief Editor of the Soft Matter section in Frontiers in Physics (2017–present). Labs & Teams: His lab integrates experimental and computational approaches to study soft matter phenomena, collaborating on projects like developing sustainable plastics and understanding plant-pathogen interactions through hyphal mechanics.

• Colloid Synthesis
• Nanophotonics
• Nanomaterials
• +3 more

Dr. Marlous Kamp is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Science , Utrecht University , specializing in Physical and Colloid Chemistry . Her research bridges colloid science, nanophotonics, and materials chemistry. Expertise : Colloid Synthesis, Nanophotonics, Nanomaterials Research Themes : Image Science, Energy in Transition, Science for Sustainability Her recent work focuses on Raman spectroscopy for biomedical imaging and complex colloid synthesis using silane chemistry. She investigates plasmonic nanodevices for atomic-scale dynamics and self-assembly mechanisms of anisotropic colloids. Key trends in her 15 most recent publications (2013-2024) include nanomaterials engineering , single-molecule spectroscopy , and colloid-chemistry interfaces . She contributes to SERS substrate standardization and energy-related materials .

• Computational polymer physics
• Soft matter
• Nanoscale materials design
• +7 more

Andrea Giuntoli is an Assistant Professor at the Micromechanics group within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Groningen . He holds a PhD in Computational Soft Matter and Polymer Physics from the University of Pisa (2018), followed by postdoctoral work at NIST (2018-2019) and Northwestern University (2019-2021) under the ChiMaD project (part of the Material Genome Initiative). His research focuses on theoretical and computational modeling of nanoscale building blocks for advanced polymer composites , particularly in controlling mechanical properties, impact resistance, and self-healing through polymer architecture and graphene dispersion. He has secured significant grants including a VENI grant (2022) and an NWO-XS grant (2022). Key research trends from his recent publications (2021-2025) include machine learning-optimized coarse-graining , energy renormalization methods , impact-resistant coatings , graphene-polymer interfaces , and self-healing polymer glasses . His work bridges materials science , computational physics , and applied polymer engineering . Scientific Awards: VENI Grant (2022) NWO-XS Grant (2022) He actively collaborates across institutions (USA, Netherlands) and disciplines, with research impacts in medical devices , advanced materials , and surface science . His lab at the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials integrates multi-scale modeling with experimental validation to enhance polymer composite performance.

George PalasantzasView profile

Professor

• Casimir Forces
• Nanomaterials
• Surface Interactions
• +6 more

Professor George Palasantzas holds the position of Full Professor in Physics (Surface interactions and Nanostructures) at the University of Groningen, affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials. His research focuses on Casimir forces, nanomaterials, surface roughness, and their applications in nanoelectromechanical systems. He has received multiple teaching awards, including being named Teacher of the Year in Physics and Astronomy. Research interests include quantum vacuum interactions (Casimir effect), nanoscale surface phenomena, and functional materials for advanced technologies. Notable projects involve Casimir force control using phase-change materials, repulsive Casimir effects in topological insulators, and nanoparticle-based neuromorphic systems. Recent publications highlight advancements in biophysical systems (leukemic cell mechanics), neuromorphic nanoparticle networks, and Casimir force measurements in heterogeneous environments. He leads grants from NWO (Dutch Research Council) and collaborates internationally on interdisciplinary projects at the physics-materials interface. Academic contributions span over 270 publications, with active roles in supervising graduate students and teaching advanced physics courses. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to affordable clean energy and industry innovation.

• Surface Science
• Nanomaterials
• Self-Assembled Monolayers
• +4 more

K. Sotthewes is an Assistant Professor at the MESA+ Institute (University of Twente), specializing in the Physics of Interfaces and Nanomaterials . Their research focuses on nanoscale and microscale material assembly, surface science, and electronic property characterization. Key Collaborations : I. S. M. Jimidar, H. J. W. Zandvliet, C. A. Nijhuis Research Themes : Solvent-free particle assembly, topological insulator studies, molecular switching mechanisms Research Trends : Recent work emphasizes dry/wet assembly techniques, polymer monolayer applications in energy harvesters, and proton-coupled electron transport in molecular junctions. Articles span Materials Science , Condensed Matter Physics , and Molecular Electronics . Technical Contributions : Developed novel methods for spatially resolved thermovoltage measurements and in-situ probing of electronic properties in thin films like BaBiO3. Active in self-assembled monolayer and transition-metal dichalcogenide interface studies. Media Impact : Collaborated on 2024 press coverage about solvent-free nanoparticle arrangement , including "Scientists arrange particles 100x thinner than human hair to perfection" and "Researchers assemble patterns of micro- and nanoparticles without using solvents" .

• Soft Condensed Matter
• Liquid Crystals
• Bioinspired Materials
• +4 more

Dr. Lisa Tran is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at Utrecht University , affiliated with the Debye Institute for Nanomaterials Science and the Soft Condensed Matter research group. Her work focuses on liquid crystals , topological defects , and bioinspired materials within the Pathways to Sustainability research theme. Key research areas: Soft Condensed Matter, Liquid Crystals, Bioinspired Materials Teaching: Bachelor's Thesis in Chemistry , Biological and Soft Matter Physics , Experimental Soft Matter Physics of the Cell Her recent publications analyze the manipulation of topological defects in colloidal and cholesteric liquid crystals, curvature-driven assembly, and sensing applications using cellulose nanocrystals. She utilizes surface geometry, anchoring effects, and confinement to engineer material properties. Dr. Tran's contact details include the Leonard S. Ornstein Laboratory at Princetonplein 1, Utrecht.