Howard Kuhn is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering at the Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh. He holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Carnegie-Mellon University (1966), along with prior degrees from the same institution (MS, 1963; BS, 1962). His research focuses on 3D Printing Additive Manufacturing Fracture Mechanics Mechanical Behavior of Materials Workability Analysis Powder Metallurgy .
Dr. Jin Zhang is a Lecturer (Assistant Professor) in Microwave Electronics at the School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), UK. He teaches in the Joint Programme (JP) between QMUL and Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications (BUPT). His academic journey includes a PhD in Physical Electronics from Southeast University (Nanjing, China) in 2019, followed by postdoctoral research at QMUL before his current appointment. His educational background includes: PhD in Physical Electronics from Southeast University (2013-2018) MSc in Physical Electronics from Southeast University (2011-2013) BEng in Mechanical Engineering and Automation from Southeast University (2007-2011) Dr. Zhang's research focuses on high-power microwave and millimetre wave with applications in nuclear fusion, as well as the applications of THz/optical spectroscopy in astrochemistry. His group is committed to accelerating commercial nuclear fusion by developing compact, cost-effective, and commercially scalable high-power microwave and millimetre-wave sources (magnetrons, etc.) capable of heating fusion plasmas to 100 million degrees Celsius. He has strong collaborations with the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), particularly on the development of high-power millimetre-wave sources and superconducting quench-detection systems for the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) project. Additionally, he conducts laboratory studies on the formation and evolution of prebiotic molecules in the universe using facilities like the FELIX Laboratory in the Netherlands and the ASTRID synchrotron radiation source in Denmark. His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on magnetron design for fusion applications, vacuum electron devices, and spectroscopic studies of interstellar ice analogs. The research spans electrical engineering, plasma physics, and astrochemistry, with applications ranging from nuclear fusion energy to understanding the chemical processes in space that may lead to life. Dr. Zhang has received recognition through his fellowships including FHEA (Fellow of the Higher Education Academy), MIEEE (Member of IEEE), and FRAS (Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society). He currently supervises PhD students including Awais Mohammed Khan (working on High-Power Millimetre-Wave Magnetrons), Awais Khan, Chunfu Liu, and Nuradin Muktar. His research is supported by grants from the UK Atomic Energy Authority, including "Quench Detection for high-power superconducting (HTS) Magnets through Time-Domain Reflectometry using Directional Coupler" (£199,648) and "Quench Detection Mechanism for HTS Magnets Through Time-Domain Reflectometry" (£30,000). Dr. Zhang's research group is actively engaged in developing technologies for nuclear fusion energy and conducting spectroscopic studies related to astrochemistry. His work bridges the gap between academia and industry with the goal of turning fusion from a scientific challenge into a commercial reality.
Paolo Tamburrano serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanics, Mathematics and Management at Polytechnic University of Bari, Italy. His primary research focuses on fluid machinery and hydrogen engine combustion systems, with affiliations centered around advanced propulsion and sustainable energy technologies. His research interests span Fluid Machinery , Hydrogen Engine Combustion , and Computational Fluid Dynamics , with significant contributions to understanding lubricant-oil interactions in hydrogen engines, cryogenic heat exchanger design for aviation, and biomethane liquefaction processes. Recent work investigates cavitation phenomena in piezohydraulic systems and digital hydraulic valve technologies. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on hydrogen propulsion systems (60% of works), advanced hydraulic technologies (25%), and sustainable energy conversion (15%). Key recurring themes include chemical kinetics modeling, combustion instability prevention, and system optimization for alternative fuels. No scientific awards or honors are documented in the available materials. Professor Tamburrano maintains active research collaborations in aircraft fuel systems and hydraulic actuation technologies, with significant focus on sustainable aviation applications. His work demonstrates consistent funding support for experimental validation and computational modeling projects. Current research activities include developing the HyLube mechanism for hydrogen engine pre-ignition prevention and designing cryogenic systems for liquid hydrogen aircraft integration, with several 2025-2026 publications indicating ongoing experimental programs.
Dr. Jose A. Boluda is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Engineering at the University of Valencia's School of Engineering. He holds a B.S. in Physics (Electricity, Electronics and Computer Science, 1992) and a Ph.D. (2000) from the same institution. With 6 teaching quinquenios and 4 research sexenios, his academic career spans over two decades. His research focuses on: Computer vision hardware design Smart vision sensors and neuromorphic computing Reconfigurable architectures (FPGA) High-speed motion analysis and change-driven processing Biomimetic visual sensing strategies He has authored over 50 international publications and participated in 15 research projects. His publications predominantly explore: Event-based vision sensors Hardware-accelerated image processing Neuromorphic engineering applications Real-time systems for robotics and 3D scanning Low-power circuit design for computer vision Awards include: Fernando Sapiña Award 2023 for Valencian teaching materials Fernando Sapiña Award 2021 for English teaching materials Fernando Sapiña Award 2021 for Valencian teaching materials He has directed 2 doctoral theses and supervised multiple master's projects. Research includes international collaborations at the University of Virginia, University of Macedonia, and Universitat Jaume I. His lab focuses on developing novel vision sensors and processing architectures.
Dr. Aijun Song is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Alabama College of Engineering. He is affiliated with the Center for Water Quality Research and the Alabama Water Institute. His work bridges engineering, environmental science, and technology, with a focus on developing innovative underwater communication systems and autonomous vehicle technologies for water monitoring applications. Dr. Song's educational background includes: Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from University of Delaware M.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Xidian University, Xi'an, China B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Xidian University, Xi'an, China Dr. Song's research primarily focuses on underwater acoustic communications, signal processing, and autonomous vehicle technologies. His work addresses challenges in underwater wireless communications including channel modeling, equalization techniques, and full-duplex communication systems. He has made significant contributions to the development of underwater sensor networks, acoustic transceivers, and communication protocols for autonomous underwater vehicles. His research has important applications in environmental monitoring, ocean exploration, and water quality assessment. Dr. Song's recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward practical implementations of underwater communication technologies, with increasing emphasis on reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, energy-efficient systems, and real-world testbed validation. His work spans theoretical development, simulation, and extensive field testing in lake and river environments. The research addresses critical challenges in underwater communication including channel variability, interference cancellation, and long-range transmission. Dr. Song has received notable recognition for his work: NSF CAREER Award from the National Science Foundation (2021) Outstanding Faculty/Staff-Initiated Engagement Effort by the Council on Community-Based Partnerships at the University of Alabama (2019) Outstanding Service Award from the 8th ACM International Conference on Underwater Networks & Systems (2013) Dr. Song actively mentors students and collaborates on interdisciplinary research projects. He serves as co-principal investigator for the USGS FLOW Academy, working with Dr. Lisa Davis and Dr. Steven Burian to provide hands-on water science education. His leadership in the Tuscaloosa MATHCOUNTS program has significantly impacted local STEM education, particularly for underserved populations and female students. Dr. Song's research has been supported by significant funding including an NSF CAREER award and collaborations with the US Geological Survey. Dr. Song leads a research team focused on underwater robotics and wireless communication technologies. His lab develops and tests autonomous underwater vehicles including JaiaBots and EcoMapper systems. The team is advancing underwater swarming technologies to enhance water monitoring capabilities, with an emphasis on creating open-source, low-cost solutions for automated water data collection and rapid flood disaster response. Recent field demonstrations at the Black Warrior River and Lake Tuscaloosa showcase the practical applications of his research.
Dr. Tim Persoons is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering at Trinity College Dublin, where he was appointed Assistant Professor in 2013. He serves as a CONNECT Funded Investigator and is affiliated with multiple Science Foundation Ireland research centers including SFI CONNECT, SFI SSPC, SFI MAREI and SFI ESIPP. Additionally, he maintains a long-standing visiting faculty position at the Cooling Technologies Research Center (CTRC) at Purdue University since 2009 and previously served as a Visiting Assistant Professor at KU Leuven during the 2009/2010 term. Dr. Persoons' primary research focuses on multi-scale convective heat transfer in electronics thermal management using unsteady flows, active flow control for sustainable energy technologies, and developing experimental thermal fluid measurement techniques. His work spans both fundamental fluid dynamics research and practical applications in data center cooling, pharmaceutical dissolution, and electronics thermal management. His research integrates computational modeling, experimental validation, and innovative measurement techniques to address critical thermal challenges. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on advanced cooling technologies for data centers and electronics, with significant work on noise reduction in cooling systems, natural convection heat sinks, and two-phase flow phenomena. His research increasingly bridges thermal engineering with pharmaceutical applications, particularly in particle dissolution and drug delivery systems, demonstrating interdisciplinary collaboration with pharmacy researchers at Trinity College. Irish Research Council (IRC) Postdoctoral Fellowship (2008) IRC/Marie Curie INSPIRE International Mobility Fellowship (2010) Senior Research Fellowship in TCD (2012) 2013 Hartnett-Irvine Award from the International Centre for Heat and Mass Transfer Fellow of Trinity College Dublin (2020) Dr. Persoons has been actively involved in editorial roles as Associate Editor for IEEE Transactions on Components, Packaging and Manufacturing Technology since 2018 and Experimental Thermal and Fluid Science since 2020. He serves as an IEEE ITherm Ambassador and participates in EuroTHERM and THERMINIC scientific committees. His research has been supported by multiple SFI-funded projects including CONNECT, SSPC, MAREI and ESIPP, which focus on telecommunications, pharmaceutical science, energy, and power systems. He has co-organized numerous technical workshops including THERMINIC-2009, PowerMEMS-2010, and CTRC Workshops on Thermal Management in Telecom Systems and Data Centers. His research activities are centered within the Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering at Trinity College Dublin, where he leads investigations into thermal fluid dynamics and heat transfer phenomena. His work involves extensive collaboration with both engineering and pharmacy researchers, creating a unique interdisciplinary research environment that bridges thermal management challenges across multiple sectors.
Joshua Smith is a Professor of Physics and Director of the Nicholas and Lee Begovich Center for Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy at California State University Fullerton. As Deputy Director of the Cosmic Explorer next-generation GW detector project, he bridges cutting-edge optics research with large-scale astrophysical discovery. Current roles: Professor of Physics Dan Black Director, Begovich Center Deputy Director, Cosmic Explorer Research focus: Gravitational wave detector optics LIGO interferometry Detector network characterization Dark matter searches via GW data His publications span gravitational wave detection methods, optical coating materials, and astrophysical implications of GW observations. Recent work includes next-generation observatory siting criteria and advanced data analysis techniques for transient GW events. Joshua Smith contributes to open-source detector characterization software and collaborates across the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA network. He leads efforts to improve detector sensitivity through materials science and interferometry innovations, while exploring multi-messenger astrophysics connections. The Begovich Center under his leadership supports gravitational wave research, education, and public outreach. His team actively participates in Cosmic Explorer R&D initiatives and maintains key detector diagnostics tools used across the global GW community.
Erhan TUNCEL is a Lecturer at Trakya University, Ipsala Vocational College , where he has been employed since 2021. His academic journey includes a Bachelor's (2015), Master's (2019), and ongoing Doctoral work focused on rotary transformers for contactless excitation of synchronous machines . Research Interests center on electrical engineering domains such as: Contactless Power Transfer Synchronous Machine Design Wind Energy Systems In-Wheel Motor Development His recent publications (2017–2025) analyze axial motion inductive transfer, motor performance, and renewable energy integration. While no formal scientific awards are listed, his work spans both national and international conferences.
Mahsa Shoaran is a Tenure-Track Assistant Professor at EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) jointly appointed at the Center for Neuroprosthetics and the Institute of Electrical Engineering . She is also the founding director of the Integrated Neurotechnologies Laboratory (INL) and contributes to several doctoral programs and teaching missions across EPFL’s School of Engineering (STI). Education: PhD in Electrical Engineering, EPFL (2015) M.Sc. & B.Sc., Sharif University of Technology Postdoctoral Fellow, California Institute of Technology (Caltech) (2015-2017) Former Assistant Professor, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Cornell University (2017-2019) Research Focus: Dr. Shoaran’s work sits at the convergence of integrated circuit design , machine learning , and neuroscience . Her group develops ultra-low-power, miniaturized system-on-chips (SoCs) capable of real-time neural recording , pathology detection , and closed-loop therapeutic intervention such as adaptive neurostimulation. Machine-learning algorithms running on-chip enable precise symptom detection in neurological and psychiatric disorders, while advanced circuit techniques guarantee energy efficiency suitable for long-term implantable or wearable neural interfaces. Scientific Awards & Grants: ERC Starting Grant 2021 Google Faculty Research Award in Machine Learning 2019 Swiss NSF Postdoctoral Fellowships NSF Award for Young Professionals – Smart & Connected Health MIT EECS Rising Star 2015 Doctoral Advising & Service: She currently supervises 14 PhD students in the Integrated Neurotechnologies Laboratory. Additionally, she serves on the PhD program committees for Electrical Engineering (EDEE), Microsystems & Microelectronics (EDMI), and contributes to the Neuro-X and SEL teaching programs. She is a Technical Program Committee member for IEEE CICC and serves on the Student Research Preview committee for ISSCC. Laboratory & Collaborative Teams: The Integrated Neurotechnologies Laboratory (INL) at EPFL Campus Biotech in Geneva hosts her interdisciplinary team of circuit designers, machine-learning researchers, and neuroscientists. The lab collaborates closely with clinicians to translate innovations into real-world neuroprosthetic and diagnostic devices.
Cordian Benedikt Riener is a Professor in Mathematics at UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, and serves as Pro-Dean for PhD education at the Faculty of Science and Technology. He leads the Algebra group and is a co-director of the Lie-Størmer Center for Fundamental Structures in Computational and Pure Mathematics. His academic roles include chairing the Norwegian Mathematics Council and serving on the Abel Prize board. Habilitation in Mathematics (2018, University of Konstanz) Magister Artium in Philosophy (2013, Goethe University Frankfurt) PhD in Mathematics (2011, Goethe University Frankfurt) Master in Pure Mathematics (2005, Université de Bordeaux 1) Diplom in Mathematical Economics (2006, Universität Ulm) Riener’s research bridges mathematics and theoretical computer science, focusing on computational complexity, real algebraic geometry, and polynomial optimization. His work includes characterizing positive polynomials via sums of squares, studying moment problems, and developing semidefinite relaxation methods. He explores symmetry in algebraic structures, such as Specht ideals and Weyl group orbits, with applications in discrete geometry and spectral graph theory. His recent publications emphasize symmetric semi-algebraic sets, trigonometric polynomial optimization, and tropical geometry. The 15 most recent articles span 2023-2025, addressing topics like symmetric nonnegative forms, orbit space descriptions, and algorithmic symmetry reduction. Keywords include Real Algebraic Geometry, Optimization, and Computational Complexity, with subfields such as Sums of Squares, Spectral Bounds, and Tropical Geometry. Aalto Science Institute Fellow (2012-2016) Zukunftskolleg Associate Fellow (2011-2012) Riener contributes to academic service as chair of the Norwegian Mathematics Council and Abel Prize board member. He has organized conferences like ISSAC 2023 and Nordic Combinatorial Conference 2022. His projects include POEMA (Horizon 2020) and SymRAG, with leadership in the Lie-Størmer Center and MASCOT collaborations.
Jing Cheng is a Research Fellow at Stanford University's Earth System Science department, focusing on climate change impacts, air pollution, and carbon dioxide removal (CDR) strategies. Their work explores synergies between net-zero energy systems and clean air policies, with a geographic emphasis on China and the United States. Research Interests: Climate-resilient renewable energy systems Environmental inequality in net-zero transitions Air pollution health impacts and mitigation Supply chain and trade effects on emissions PM2.5 and cardiovascular disease correlations Compact urban development in Chinese cities Publication Trends (2025–2024): Recent articles emphasize modeling residual emissions in net-zero scenarios, health equity implications of CDR, and policy co-benefits for air quality and carbon reduction. Key methodologies include multisource data fusion, emission inventories, and scenario analysis for policy evaluation. Contact: Email: chengj10@stanford.edu
Alessandro Tredicucci , Full Professor of Condensed Matter Physics at the University of Pisa's Department of Physics, serves as Vice-Rector for Research Organization and Evaluation. His research focuses on nanostructured materials , quantum cascade lasers , and terahertz technology . First THz quantum cascade laser developer (2002) Director of Interdepartmental Center for Materials Science and Engineering (2019-present) Member of European Laboratory for Non-Linear Spectroscopy (LENS) board (2019-present) Scientific achievements include: Nick Holonyak Jr. Award (Optical Society of America) Giuseppe Occhialini Award (Institute of Physics & Italian Physical Society) Over 280 ISI publications and 16 patents ERC Advanced Grant SouLMan principal investigator
Avik Ghosh is a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Virginia's School of Engineering and Applied Science. He received his Ph.D. from Ohio State University in 1999 and leads the Virginia Nano-Computing Research Group (ViNo) at UVA. His research spans theoretical condensed matter physics with applications in nanoelectronics, quantum transport, and beyond-CMOS computing paradigms. Professor Ghosh's research interests focus on understanding non-equilibrium properties of nano-scale material structures. His group applies a combined understanding of fundamental physics, chemistry, material science, and device engineering to explore novel device concepts. Key research areas include quantum transport in strongly correlated systems, tunnel-transistors and Klein tunnel switches, Dirac Cone systems (Graphene, Bilayer Graphene, Topological Insulators), nanomagnetic memory and logic, and nanoscale thermal flow. His work connects emerging materials with novel devices toward innovative circuit and architecture design using tools from 'first principles' models to quantum transport to compact models. His recent publications reveal a strong focus on quantum transport phenomena, thermal management at nanoscale interfaces, and spin-based computing. The research demonstrates expertise in combining theoretical modeling with practical device applications, particularly in topological materials, Heusler alloys, and 2D materials systems. His work often involves sophisticated computational approaches including density functional theory and non-equilibrium Green's function methods. IOP Fellow (since 2011) Top-10 breakthrough research of 2016, Physics World Physical Review B paper in Editor's Suggestion (2016) All University Teaching Award (2013) IBM Faculty Award (2011) NSF CAREER award (2008) Professor Ghosh has secured significant research funding including a $3.4 million DARPA grant for shrinking computing memory. His Virginia Nano-Computing Research Group maintains strong collaborations across disciplines, connecting fundamental physics with practical engineering challenges in next-generation electronics. The group actively utilizes high-performance computational resources and develops numerical algorithms to advance understanding of nanoscale science and engineering.
Dominik Bortis is a Lecturer at the Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, ETH Zurich, affiliated with the Power Electronic Systems Laboratory (PES). He leads the Advanced Mechatronic Systems research group, focusing on ultra-high-speed motors, magnetic bearings, and machine-integrated power electronics. His work emphasizes multi-objective optimization and applications in industrial automation, medical systems, and future mobility. Educated at ETH Zurich with M.Sc. (2005) and Ph.D. (2008) in Electrical Engineering Co-supervised Ph.D. students and led industry research projects at PES (2008-2016) Founded ETH spin-off Enertronics GmbH (2010) for power electronics consulting Research interests include: Ultra-compact inverter systems using SiC/GaN semiconductors Variable speed motor drives for electric vehicles High-temperature automotive inverters Lightweight rotating transformers for high-speed spindles EMI analysis and power electronics-machine interactions Applications span: Advanced industrial automation with dynamic positioning systems Medical/pharmaceutical ultra-high purity pumps Hybrid/electric vehicle motors and actuators More electric aircraft and satellite systems
Dr. Robert Evans is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Civil Engineering within the School of Engineering at Swinburne University of Technology. With a comprehensive academic background including a PhD in Civil Engineering from Swinburne, he brings both academic expertise and practical industry experience from his previous roles at Vicroads and as a Geotechnical Consultant at Piper and Associates. His research focuses on critical geotechnical challenges, particularly soil mechanics and the behavior of expansive soils on light structures. Dr. Evans has developed expertise in analyzing pavement roughness through waveband analysis and modeling pavement deterioration. His work bridges theoretical understanding with practical applications in civil infrastructure. Dr. Evans has maintained an active research program over the past decade, with publication trends showing consistent contributions to high-impact journals in geotechnical and pavement engineering. His recent work emphasizes sustainable solutions, including the use of waste materials in construction, polymer-based stabilization techniques, and understanding the environmental factors affecting infrastructure performance. His research achievements include securing competitive grants from both internal and external sources, including the Australian Research Council. Dr. Evans has successfully supervised numerous PhD and Master's students, with current projects addressing innovative footing systems, sustainable pavement materials, and the interaction between infrastructure and environmental factors. As an educator, Dr. Evans is responsible for undergraduate courses in Geomechanics and Geotechnical Engineering within the Civil Engineering program. His teaching is informed by his active research program and industry experience, ensuring students receive up-to-date knowledge of both theoretical principles and practical applications in the field.
