Nazanin Tajik is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering at Mississippi State University (MSU). She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma, an M.S. from the University of Tehran, and a B.S. from Sharif University of Technology. Her research focuses on integrating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and social science concepts to develop cross-disciplinary frameworks for infrastructure resilience, smart transportation systems, and disaster management. Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. at the University of Oklahoma where she contributed to the Risk-Based Systems Analytics Laboratory. At MSU, she established a research center bridging AI/ML tools with socio-technical systems. Key research domains include cyber-physical-social infrastructure resilience, search-and-rescue planning, and game-theoretic robotic designs. Tajik's work emphasizes optimization algorithms for network vulnerability assessment, resource allocation in disaster scenarios, and adaptive recovery strategies. She is actively involved with professional organizations such as INFORMS, ISE, and POMS, reflecting her commitment to advancing operations research and systems engineering methodologies.
Tyler Johnson, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at Dominican University of California's School of Health and Natural Sciences. His expertise lies in Natural Products Chemistry , Bioorganic Chemistry , and Medicinal Chemistry , with a focus on biomedical applications. Johnson's research emphasizes discovering therapeutic lead compounds and molecular probes from marine and terrestrial natural products. His research team investigates chemotypes like mycothiazole , zampanolide , fijianolide , and latrunculin from Indo-Pacific marine sponges. These compounds exhibit potent cytotoxicity (IC50 1~5 nM) against cancer cell lines through mechanisms including microfilament disruption , mitochondrial complex I inhibition , and microtubule stabilization . Current work explores mycothiazole as a molecular probe for mitochondrial aging. Key publications span 2024-2002, covering topics from sponge-derived anticancer agents to inflammation modulation and environmental toxicology. Johnson's laboratory engages in large-scale natural product isolation, spectroscopic validation, and semi-synthetic medicinal chemistry to optimize therapeutic leads. His work integrates undergraduate and graduate students into interdisciplinary biomedical research.
Nathan Yee is a Professor at Rutgers University, where he has held academic appointments since 2004. He earned his B.Sc. from McGill University (1997) and Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame (2001), followed by postdoctoral research at the University of Leeds (2001-2003). His career progression includes positions as Assistant Professor (2004-2010), Associate Professor (2010-2016), and full Professor since 2016. Research Focus Yee's research integrates geochemistry and geomicrobiology to study: mineral transformation processes, interactions between metal ions and mineral surfaces, microbial influences on inorganic element cycling, and contaminant behavior in environmental systems. His work combines experimental approaches with modeling to investigate biogeochemical processes relevant to early Earth evolution, microbial metabolism, and environmental remediation. Key themes include biologically catalyzed redox reactions, metal isotope fractionation, and geomicrobial controls on contaminant transport. Publication Trends Yee's recent publications (2021-2025) demonstrate strong emphasis on microbial-metal interactions, isotope geochemistry, and planetary science. Dominant themes include: isotopic tracing of metal cycling (Ni, Cu, Hg), microbial redox transformations of contaminants (Se, Te, U), photochemical processes in early Earth systems, and astrobiological investigations of planetary bodies like Mars and Enceladus. Methodologies frequently combine laboratory experiments with geochemical modeling.
T. Alan Hatton is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering within the School of Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). His career spans over four decades with significant contributions to electrochemical separation processes and sustainable engineering solutions. Current research focuses on developing next-generation electrochemical systems for critical environmental challenges. Education: Ph.D., University of Wisconsin, 1981 M.Sc. Eng, University of Natal, Durban, South Africa, 1976 B.Sc. Eng, University of Natal, Durban, South Africa, 1972 Professor Hatton's research centers on electrochemically-mediated separation processes , specifically targeting carbon capture from diverse sources (post-combustion flue gas, ambient air, and ocean water) and advanced water purification systems. His work integrates fundamental transport phenomena with innovative electrochemical engineering to create energy-efficient solutions. Key methodologies include redox-active materials, electro-swing adsorption, and molten salt electrochemistry, with strong emphasis on scalability and real-world implementation. Recent breakthroughs involve oxygen-stable quinone systems for direct air capture and marine carbon dioxide removal technologies. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2024-2025) reveals a concentrated focus on electrochemical CO 2 capture and conversion , with 87% of works directly addressing carbon management. Dominant themes include redox-active material design (particularly quinones and iron complexes), process thermodynamics optimization, and novel reactor architectures like fiber sorbents and photoelectrochemical systems. The research demonstrates consistent progression toward practical implementation, with increasing attention to marine carbon removal and integration with renewable energy sources. Scientific Awards: Founding Fellow, AIMBE, 1992 Merck Faculty Development Award, 1989 Class of '22 Career Development Chair, 1988 Presidential Young Investigator Award, NSF, 1985 Everett Moore Baker Award for Excellence in UG Teaching, MIT, 1983 Professor Hatton leads an active research group developing electrochemical separation technologies with significant industry and environmental impact. His laboratory operates at the intersection of fundamental electrochemistry and applied environmental engineering, securing sustained funding for projects targeting carbon capture scalability and water purification innovation. Current efforts focus on translating electro-swing adsorption technology to commercial applications through startup ventures, while maintaining strong educational contributions through MIT's chemical engineering curriculum. The research team maintains collaborations with national laboratories and industry partners to accelerate technology deployment.
David Alan Goldberg is an Associate Professor in the School of Operations Research and Information Engineering (ORIE) at Cornell University, part of Cornell Engineering. He joined Cornell in 2017 and previously held the A. Russel Chandler III Associate Professorship at Georgia Tech’s Industrial and Systems Engineering department. Goldberg earned his Ph.D. in Operations Research from MIT (2011) and a B.S. in Computer Science from Columbia University (2006). Education: B.S. in Computer Science, Columbia University (2006) Ph.D. in Operations Research, MIT (2011) Research Interests: Goldberg’s work focuses on applied probability and stochastic processes, including optimal stopping, inventory and queueing models, combinatorial optimization, and robust optimization. He develops algorithms and insights for complex systems, addressing challenges like the curse of dimensionality. His research spans applications in data science, operations research, and stochastic modeling. Notable contributions include distributionally robust inventory control and high-dimensional decision-making frameworks. Awards and Honors: 2025 Community-Engaged Practice and Innovation Award (David M. Einhorn Center) 2023 Sunny Yau ’72 Teaching Award (Cornell) 2019 INFORMS Applied Probability Society Best Publication Award 2015 NSF CAREER Award Multiple INFORMS Nicholson Student Paper Competitions (First Place, 2019 & 2015) Teaching and Service: Goldberg leads Cornell ORIE’s undergraduate research program, connecting students to real-world applications of OR and data science. He teaches courses in probability modeling, stochastic models, and academic skills for PhD students. He chairs the INFORMS Applied Probability Society and serves on editorial boards for Operations Research and Stochastic Systems . At Cornell, he advises the Undergraduate ORIE Society and directs undergraduate studies in ORIE. Labs & Collaborations: Goldberg’s research integrates theoretical rigor with practical applications, often involving collaborations across disciplines. His work bridges operations research, statistics, and computer science to address modern challenges in inventory systems, queueing networks, and decision-making under uncertainty.
Dr. Parth Chansoria is a Lecturer at the Department of Health Sciences and Technology at ETH Zürich, where he leads biofabrication research within the Tissue Engineering and Biofabrication (TEB) group. His work focuses on structured light technology for regenerative medicine applications, including in vivo bioprinting and microgravity-based tissue engineering. He holds Ambizione and Spark grants from the Swiss National Science Foundation and has pioneered innovations in light-guided biofabrication, collagen-based resins, and anisotropic tissue design. Research domains include: Filamented light biofabrication for aligned tissues Minimally invasive light-based in vivo bioprinting Musculoskeletal tissue engineering in microgravity Isotonic collagen-based photocrosslinkable resins He has secured over 6 patents and received prestigious awards including the ISBF Early Career Investigator Award (2022), Marie Curie Actions Fellowship (2021), and SME 30 Under 30 recognition (2021). His interdisciplinary research bridges bioengineering, materials science, and clinical applications. Key collaborations include projects at UNC Chapel Hill (USA) and NC State (USA), where he developed biomimetic patches for dynamic organ pathologies and ultrasound-assisted cell patterning. His lab explores novel bioinks, hybrid fabrication techniques, and translational applications in regenerative medicine.
Ana Maria Velez is an Associate Professor at the Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her research focuses on insect responses to chemical stressors, particularly RNA interference (RNAi) and Bt toxins for pest management. With a 80% research and 20% teaching appointment, she leads the Insect Toxicology Lab and teaches courses like 'Toxins in the Environment' and 'Insecticide Toxicology.' Education: Ph.D. in Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2013 M.S. in Entomology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, 2009 B.S. in Biology, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia, 2006 Her research spans molecular, organismal, and population levels to evaluate transgenic crops and RNAi technologies. Key areas include resistance mechanisms, non-target effects, and risk assessment frameworks. She has extensive publications on western corn rootworm and fall armyworm, emphasizing sustainable pest control. Her work also addresses sublethal impacts on non-target species like monarch butterflies and honeybees. Recent articles highlight RNAi delivery optimization, Bt resistance dynamics, and ecological impacts of insecticides. Her lab collaborates on patents for RNAi-based pest suppression methods targeting chromatin remodeling and developmental genes. Scientific Awards Distinguished Multicultural Alumni (2019) DuPont Young Professor Award (2016) International Congress of Entomology Travel Awards (2016) Widaman Trust Distinguished Graduate Assistant (2011) Milton E. Mohr Teaching Fellowship (2012) The Vélez Arango Lab investigates durability and safety of insect control technologies, with emphasis on RNAi and Bt crops. Their work informs integrated pest management (IPM) systems and regulatory frameworks.
Professor Paul C. Bressloff holds the Chair in Applied Mathematics and Stochastic Processes at Imperial College London's Department of Mathematics within the Faculty of Natural Sciences. His research focuses on stochastic and non-equilibrium processes, particularly in molecular and cell biology, utilizing tools from probability theory, statistical physics, and dynamical systems. He authored a seminal textbook Stochastic Processes in Cell Biology (Springer), with a 2nd edition published in 2022. Previously, he led the graduate program in mathematical biology at the University of Utah from 2001 to 2023. Research interests include stochastic multi-particle systems, active particles, phase separation, and diffusion across semi-permeable interfaces. His work spans applications in neural field theory, cytoneme-mediated morphogenesis, and protein trafficking. He is affiliated with the Biomathematics Group and Mathematical Physics Group at Imperial. Recent articles explore stochastic resetting in search processes, narrow-capture problems, and hybrid models of switching diffusions. His advising includes over 20 graduate students, many now faculty in mathematical biology. His contributions bridge applied mathematics and biological systems, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to complex stochastic phenomena.
Prof. Fatih Terzi is a faculty member in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at Istanbul Technical University's Faculty of Architecture. His research focuses on sustainable urban development, resilience, ecology, GIS applications, and smart cities. He has held visiting researcher positions at Clemson University (USA), University College London, and Technical University Berlin. He has led projects supported by EU, TÜBİTAK, and others, addressing ecological planning, risk reduction, and urban regeneration. His work bridges academic research with practical urban planning, including projects with municipalities and the Ministry of Environment. He has received multiple awards for research and design, including the Best Paper Award (2025) and TÜBİTAK recognitions. Education: PhD in Urban and Regional Planning from Istanbul Technical University (2010), MSc in Urban Planning (2004), BSc in Urban and Regional Planning from Yıldız Technical University (2000). Research interests include spatial strategic planning, ecological cities, and climate-sensitive urban design. He uses urban modeling and GIS to address sustainability challenges. His recent projects include Istanbul's flood risk analysis, green space strategies, and sustainable city planning in Kayseri and Malatya. Notable awards include the 2024 TÜBİTAK award for urban resilience projects and the 2023 Istanbul Technical University Academic Performance Award. He has also been recognized for design competitions, including the İzmir Ecological Living Area Project (2021) and the 2017 Balkan Architectural Biennale Urbanism Grand Prix. Prof. Terzi holds administrative roles at Istanbul Technical University, including Merkez Danışma Kurulu Üyeliği (2023–present). He oversees academic projects on urban resilience, smart cities, and ecological planning, contributing to both national and international initiatives.
Hui Pan is a distinguished academic holding dual positions as Nokia Chair in Data Science and Professor of Computer Science at the University of Helsinki, and Chair Professor of Computational Media and Arts at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). His research spans networking, mobile computing, augmented reality, and computational social science. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Cambridge in 2007. His work bridges social networks with mobile systems, pioneering fields like mobile social networks and opportunistic forwarding algorithms. Research interests include data science, complex networks, and innovative applications of augmented reality. His recent publications focus on low-latency AR frameworks, blockchain for computation offloading, and mobile web visualization. He has received prestigious awards, including IEEE Fellow (2018), ACM Distinguished Scientist (2016), and the Nokia Chair Endowment (2017). He has supervised over 15 PhD and 12 MPhil graduates, with 13 current Ph.D. students and 2 MPhil students. His editorial roles include Associate Editorships at IEEE Transactions journals and guest editorships at top venues like IEEE JSAC and ACM Transactions. He has organized conferences such as WWW Track Chair and ExtremeCom General Chair.
Anthony King is a Professor of War Studies (Security and Defence) at the University of Exeter and Director of the Strategy and Security Institute (SSI), established in 2010. He leads SSI’s flagship MA in Applied Strategy, focusing on practical strategy training through simulations and fieldwork. His research bridges sociology and anthropology, emphasizing social transformation in military and civilian contexts. He holds a Leverhulme Major Research Fellowship (2021–24) and has secured five ESRC grants. Education: BA Archaeology & Anthropology (University of Cambridge), MA Political Science (University of Michigan, 1991), PhD Sociology (University of Salford, 1995). Academic roles include Professor of Sociology at Liverpool University (1997–2006), Professor of War Studies at the University of Warwick (2016–2023), and return to Exeter in 2023. Research Focus: Military sociology, AI in warfare, urban conflict, command structures, gender in armed forces, and counter-insurgency. Recent work includes Urban Warfare in the Twenty-First Century (2025) and AI, Automation, and War (2025). Media Engagement: Regular contributor to BBC Radio, The Times, and The Economist, with over 100 media appearances since 2022 on issues like Ukraine and AI’s military implications. Advisory Roles: Advised NATO, British Army, and Royal Marines. Conducted audits on military culture post-Atherton Report. Currently recruiting PhD students in military sociology, security studies, and AI/military decision-making. Labs/Teams: Director of SSI, leading research on AI, security, and military-tech complexes. Collaborates with defense institutions globally.
Bryan Tripp is an Associate Professor at the University of Waterloo, specializing in computational neuroscience, deep learning, robotics, and medical AI. He leads the BRAIN Lab, which focuses on developing neural system models that interact with the physical world through robots. His research integrates neurobiological models with advanced machine learning techniques to study visuomotor processes and robotic applications. Tripp teaches courses such as Computational Neuroscience (SYDE 552), Deep Learning (SYDE 577), and Biomedical Engineering Design Workshops (BME 461/462). His lab has achieved milestones including the OREO robotic head, the first spiking neural network model for complex action planning, and comprehensive datasets for robotic grasping. His recent work emphasizes Medical AI applications, with graduate positions available. The BRAIN Lab is affiliated with the Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience and Waterloo.AI, contributing to interdisciplinary AI research initiatives.
Shahid Siddique is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology and Nematology at the University of California, Davis. His research focuses on understanding molecular and applied aspects of plant-parasitic nematode interactions with host plants. He aims to develop sustainable strategies to mitigate nematode-induced crop losses through genetic, biochemical, and biotechnological approaches. His lab is particularly interested in host resistance mechanisms, nematode effector proteins, and biocontrol solutions. Education: MSc, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan PhD, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria Habilitation, University of Bonn, Germany Research Interests: Siddique’s work bridges basic and applied research, including cell surface signaling in plant-parasitic nematode interactions, functional characterization of secretory proteins, molecular diagnostics for nematodes, and biocontrol strategies. Current projects explore recombination hotspots in nematode genomes, CRISPR-based resistance engineering, and redox signaling mechanisms. Teaching: General Plant Nematology (NEM100) in Spring 2020 Labs/Teams: The Siddique Lab focuses on translating molecular discoveries into practical pest management solutions. Collaborations involve genomic analysis, proteomics, and field trials to address global agricultural challenges.
Shen Wei is the KoGuan Distinguished Professor of Law at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University Law School, with a concurrent role as Visiting Professor (2025). His academic career spans legal practice and academia, focusing on international investment law, corporate governance, financial regulation, and international commercial arbitration. Concurrently, his research extends into computational and mathematical domains, including machine learning, deep neural networks, and approximation theory. He teaches international investment law, international financial regulation, company law, and international economic law. His interdisciplinary work bridges legal scholarship with advanced mathematical modeling and algorithmic analysis. Recent research emphasizes neural network architecture, optimization techniques, and approximation theory applied to complex systems. Notable contributions include studies on deep network expressivity, gradient methods, and wavelet-based image restoration. Awards and grants are not explicitly mentioned, but his work reflects significant contributions to both legal and computational fields.
Robert C. Merton is the School of Management Distinguished Professor of Finance at MIT Sloan School of Management and John and Natty McArthur University Professor Emeritus at Harvard University. He holds a PhD in Economics from MIT (1970), with prior roles including George Fisher Baker Professor at Harvard Business School and J.C. Penney Professor of Management at MIT Sloan. His work revolutionized finance through the Black-Scholes-Merton options pricing model, earning the 1997 Nobel Prize in Economics. Current research focuses on lifecycle investing, systemic risk measurement, and financial innovation. Education: BS in Engineering Mathematics (Columbia), MS in Applied Mathematics (Caltech), PhD in Economics (MIT). Affiliated with MIT’s Golub Center for Finance and Policy and Harvard initiatives. Recognized via awards from CME Group, World Federation of Exchanges, and Risk magazine. Key publications include Continuous-Time Finance and co-authored works on financial systems and innovation. Research emphasizes translating theory into practice, with recent articles addressing volatility forecasting, trust in lending, bankruptcy frameworks, and performance fee valuation. A prolific academic leader, he advises on policy and systemic risk while maintaining ties to MIT’s finance community through roles like Killian Award recipient (2021).
