Find Academic Supervisors

• Biopolymers
• Urban Water Systems
• Energy Poverty
• +4 more

Paul Lant is a Professor at the School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland. He served as Head of School (2009-2013), leading major teaching and research initiatives. His career includes founding Wastewater Futures Pty Ltd (20-year directorship) and extensive industry consultation, including expert witness roles. He co-founded the UQ Energy and Poverty Research Group (2014) and UQ R!SK (2015), focusing on hazardous industry risk management. Research interests span biodegradable plastics (17+ years leading UQ's PHA group), urban water-energy systems, and sustainable energy solutions for impoverished communities. His work integrates engineering with social science, policy, and business perspectives to address global sustainability challenges. Publications demonstrate consistent focus on polymer sustainability, urban resource management, and energy transitions. Recent articles emphasize bioplastic environmental behavior, water-energy nexus optimization, and socioeconomic dimensions of energy access. Scientific Awards & Honors: Fellow, Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) Registered Professional Engineer Qld (RPEQ) Fellow, Australian Institute of Company Directors (1998-2019) National Teaching Awards for undergraduate/postgraduate education (2005, 2006) Supervised 50+ PhD students and secured >$21M in research funding, including 19 ARC projects. Led establishment of the Dow Centre for Sustainable Engineering Innovation ($10M gift) and ARC ITCC for Bioplastics ($6.5M). Founded IWES, Australia's leading environmental short-course provider. Directs the PHA Research Group and co-leads interdisciplinary initiatives including UQ R!SK (risk management) and the Energy and Poverty Research Group. Maintains global industry partnerships with Veolia, Norske Skog, and others.

Bernadette McCabeView profile

Professor

• Biogas Technology
• Agricultural Waste Management
• Environmental Engineering
• +3 more

Professor Bernadette McCabe is Director of the Centre for Agricultural Engineering (CAE) at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) and Research Program Team Leader for Energy and Bioresource Recycling. She leads Australia’s National Team for IEA Bioenergy Task 37 (Energy from Biogas) and is a member of the ARC College of Experts. With over 25 years in academic and industry research, her work focuses on converting agricultural and food-industry waste into valuable resources like biogas, recycled water, and biofertilizers. She collaborates with industries to enhance profitability through sustainable waste management, addressing livestock, cropping, and water utility sectors. Education : BSc(Hons) in Agriculture, University of Sydney (1992) PhD in Agricultural Bioengineering, University of Western Sydney (1999) Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching and Learning, USQ (2007) Research Interests : Biogas production from agro-industrial waste Anaerobic digestion optimization Greenhouse gas mitigation strategies Biosolids and digestate management Circular economy applications in agriculture Grants & Projects : Recycling and Renewable Energy Commercialisation Hub (2023) Nutrients in a Circular Economy (NiCE) ARC Hub (2022) Wastes to Profits: Regional Agri-Food Waste Valorisation (2021) Pilot-scale digestate-derived bioproducts (2020) Awards : Advance Queensland Mid-Career Research Fellowship (2017) ALTC Citation for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning (2011) Labs/Teams : Leadership in CAE’s Energy and Bioresource Recycling program Collaborations with IEA Bioenergy, CSIRO, and industry partners

• Sustainable Soil Management
• Agroecology
• Green Manures
• +7 more

Francis Rayns is an Associate Professor (Research) at the Centre for Agroecology, Water and Resilience, Coventry University. His research focuses on sustainable soil management, particularly the use of green manures, waste materials (compost, digestate, biochar), and alternatives to plastics in agriculture. He actively promotes citizen science to improve agricultural practices and has collaborated on projects addressing agroforestry, urban soil remediation, and plastic reduction in farming. Education: PhD in Biotechnology (Somatic embryogenesis) from De Montfort University and BSc in Applied Biology from University College North Wales. Notable projects include UNDERTREES (agroforestry ecosystem services), REPAS (citizen science for plastic reduction), and SOIL NEXUS (urban soil care). He leads research on peat-free growing media, crop rotation impacts, and biodegradable alternatives to plastics. Publications span topics like soil microbial health, biostimulant efficacy, and historical trends in crop mineral content. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to solve agricultural challenges, blending environmental science with practical farming solutions.

August BlackView profile

Assistant Professor

• Philosophy of Technology
• Software Studies
• Techno-Politics
• +6 more

August Black is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Critical Media Practices at the University of Colorado Boulder. As a hybrid practitioner of art, design, and engineering, he creates experimental spatial and acoustic systems by building custom technological artifacts. His work critically engages techno-social systems through live networked audio, user-generated content, and immersive installations. BFA, Syracuse University MS & PhD, UC Santa Barbara (NSF IGERT Fellow) His research explores the intersection of philosophy of technology, software studies, and AI ethics. Current projects investigate global networking for hyper-local communication, while past work includes networked radio systems and generative audio-visual platforms. He has taught at UC Santa Barbara, University of San Francisco, and CU Boulder. Recent projects include Pulse Memorial (2024), a mobile multichannel memorial system, and Audio Compost (2022), a virtual frippertronic loop project. His work often incorporates WebRTC, FM radio integration, and participatory frameworks across digital and physical environments. NSF IGERT Fellow Black has advised PhD candidate Nima Bahrehmand and collaborated with institutions like ORF Kunstradio, Ars Electronica Futurelab, and Cycling '74. His practice includes software development (janode library for Janus WebRTC), hardware engineering, and exhibitions at festivals including Ars Electronica and SIGGRAPH.

• Agricultural Engineering
• Environmental Biotechnology
• Animal Husbandry
• +4 more

Thomas Amon is a Professor at the Free University of Berlin and Head of the Department of Sensor Technology and Modeling at the Leibniz Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy Potsdam (ATB) . He leads research in livestock-environment interactions , with a focus on reducing greenhouse gases, managing antimicrobial resistance, and optimizing dairy and pig production systems. Current Roles: Department Head (ATB), Professor (Free University Berlin) Research Pillars: Animal husbandry emissions, biogas systems, antibiotic resistance dynamics, climate-resilient farming His research interests span agricultural biotechnology, environmental microbiology, and sustainable systems engineering. Key projects include: LeibnizLabPP - Pandemic preparedness in animal-environment systems SMP4 - Antibiotic use modeling in livestock EmiMod - Emission quantification methods Using process-based models like Dutch Tier 3 and ManureDNDC, he quantifies whole-farm carbon and nitrogen cycles across confinement and pasture-based dairy systems. His work reveals: 63% of GHG emissions from confinement systems come from enteric methane Pasture systems show 18-69% soil organic carbon sequestration 19.9 tCO 2 -eq per cow in confinement vs 2.7-4.0 tCO 2 -eq in pasture systems His scientific contributions include: First mechanistic model linking diet composition to antibiotic resistance gene persistence Novel framework for dairy GHG accounting across barn-manure-soil interfaces Optimized ventilation models for pig housing with outdoor access

Earl CreechView profile

Assistant Professor

• Weed Science
• Agronomy
• Soil Health
• +3 more

Dr. Earl Creech is an Assistant Professor and Agronomy Specialist at Utah State University's College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences , with a focus on the Department of Plants, Soils, and Climate . He earned his PhD in Weed Science from Purdue University (2007) and an MS in Plant Science from USU (2003). Research interests include: Weed-Soil-Crop Interactions Sustainable Soil Health through Compost and Cover Crops Drought-Tolerant Crop Management Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Forage and Field Crops Agricultural Extension and Education Publication trends (2025–2021) emphasize herbicide resistance , compost impacts on soil organic matter , nematode-weed interactions , and innovative irrigation strategies for crops like alfalfa and corn in semi-arid environments. Scientific awards include: Extension Specialist Career Award (2024) Graduate Research Mentor of the Year (multiple years) Best Student Paper Advisor (2024, 2021, 2019) Richard L. Chase Scholarship (2003, 2002) He has advised 19 graduate students since 2014 and led extension programs on weed control , soil testing , and cover crop integration across the western U.S.

• Synthetic Biology
• Biotechnology
• Microbial Biotechnology
• +4 more

Ligia Rodrigues is a researcher affiliated with the Universidade do Minho, focusing on synthetic biology, microbial biotechnology, and bioprospecting of biosurfactants. Her work spans applications in pharmaceuticals, food science, and environmental sustainability. Universidade do Minho - College of Biological Engineering Partex Oil and Gas Holdings Corp (2019-2024) Research Interests : • Biosurfactant production and medical applications • Synthetic biology for prebiotic and bioactive compound synthesis • Metagenomic analysis of saline/oily environments Recent Publications highlight her expertise in engineering microbial systems (E. coli, S. cerevisiae) for flavonoid and chondroitin production, alongside innovations in nanocarrier design for cancer therapy and aptamer-based diagnostics. Key Grants include: Bi3S - Biodiversity and Bioprospecting of Biosurfactants in Saline Environments (2021-2024) Laboratório Associado em Biotecnologia, Bioengenharia e Sistemas microELetromecânicos (2021-2025) Her work intersects metabolic engineering , nanotechnology , and microbial adhesion studies , with collaborations spanning Portugal, Poland, Brazil, and Spain.

Alexandros StefanakisView profile

Assistant Professor

• Water and Wastewater Treatment
• Ecological Engineering
• Constructed Wetlands
• +5 more

Alexandros Stefanakis is an Assistant Professor at the School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering of the Technical University of Crete and Director of the Environmental Technology and Management Laboratory . His expertise spans water and wastewater treatment, ecological engineering, and circular economy strategies. He holds a PhD and MSc from Democritus University of Thrace and is a globally recognized authority in sustainable water management. Doctor of Philosophy, Environmental Engineering (2011) Master of Science, Civil Engineering (2007) Diploma in Environmental Engineering (2005) Research focuses on nature-based solutions like constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment in hot and arid climates, circular economy models for sewage sludge management, and green infrastructure development. Key projects include the world's largest industrial constructed wetland in Oman (175,000 m³/day) and Saudi Arabia's Red Sea Project system (16,000 m³/day). Recent publications emphasize climate adaptation and sustainable resource recovery , with 2025 studies on sludge treatment reed beds, GCC circular economy transitions, and biochar applications in wastewater reuse. His work bridges ecological principles with engineering practices for global sustainability challenges. Scientific Distinctions President of the International Ecological Engineering Society (first Greek scientist in 32 years) Top 2% of global scientists (Stanford University, 2020-present) National Research Award 2021 (Oman) He actively participates in EU-funded programs like Horizon Europe and Green Fund initiatives, promoting decentralized water treatment systems and bio-inspired sustainability frameworks worldwide.

Rafael AurasView profile

Professor

• Sustainable packaging systems
• Biodegradable and compostable polymers
• Life cycle assessment
• +6 more

Rafael Auras is a Professor and the Amcor Endowed Chair in Packaging Sustainability at Michigan State University's School of Packaging. He leads a dynamic research group focused on developing sustainable packaging systems derived from renewable resources and mitigating end-of-life effects of these systems. His work addresses critical environmental challenges posed by conventional plastics, particularly "white pollution" caused by accumulation of human-made materials in the environment. Dr. Auras earned his undergraduate degree in chemical engineering from the National University of Misiones in Argentina, an MS in Materials Science and Technology from the National University of San Martin in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and a PhD in packaging from Michigan State University. His research centers on three main pillars: developing novel biobased and biodegradable polymers (particularly polylactic acid, poly(hydroalkanoates), and thermoplastic starch), tailoring polymer biodegradability through understanding abiotic and biotic degradation phases, and designing sustainable packaging systems using life cycle assessment methodologies. His work bridges materials science, environmental engineering, and sustainability science to address packaging's role in the circular economy and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Analysis of Dr. Auras' recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on life cycle assessment methodologies, biodegradation mechanisms of polymers under various environmental conditions, and development of high-performance biobased packaging materials with improved barrier properties. His research has significant implications for reducing plastic waste, particularly in food packaging applications where contamination often prevents conventional recycling. Amcor Endowed Chair in Packaging Sustainability Editorial Board Member - Food Packaging and Shelf Life (Elsevier) Editorial Board Member - Polymers (MDPI) Editorial Board Member - Journal of Packaging Technology and Science (Wiley) Representative member for Sustainable Packaging Coalition Dr. Auras has supervised numerous undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral researchers, with current students focusing on stereocomplex PLA structures, life cycle assessment of packaging systems, and sustainable packaging design. He teaches PKG 470 (Packaging Sustainability), PKG 825 (Polymeric Packaging Materials), and PKG 880 (Life Cycle Assessment), having co-authored the textbook "Life Cycle of Sustainable Packaging: from Design to End of Life" to support these courses. The Auras Lab at MSU maintains state-of-the-art equipment for polymer characterization, biodegradation testing, and life cycle assessment modeling. The lab collaborates extensively with Fortune 500 companies and government agencies on research projects addressing sustainable packaging challenges, with particular focus on creating packaging solutions that minimize environmental impact while maintaining functionality.

Serge StollView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Environmental Chemistry
• Soft Matter Science
• Colloid and Polymer Chemistry
• +7 more

Serge Stoll is a Senior Lecturer in Analytical, Environmental Physical Chemistry, and Soft Matter Science at the Department F.-A. Forel for Environmental and Aquatic Sciences, University of Geneva. He teaches colloid and polymer chemistry, environmental chemistry, and water quality courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, including within the Master of Environmental Sciences program. Research Interests: His research focuses on understanding the fate, transport, aggregation, and sedimentation of colloids, biopolymers, and manufactured nanoparticles in aquatic environments. He employs both experimental techniques and advanced computational modeling (Monte Carlo, molecular dynamics) to link molecular-scale processes with macroscopic environmental behavior. Key areas include microplastics, nanoparticle toxicity, and applications in water treatment technologies. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in environmental nanotechnology, particularly the behavior of microplastics and engineered nanoparticles in urban water cycles and drinking water systems. The work spans from fundamental soft matter simulations to applied wastewater and drinking water treatment, often involving interdisciplinary collaborations and European research projects like NanoFASE and NanoMILE. Scientific Awards and Recognition: Represented Switzerland at the CERC3 Workshop on Colloidal Synthesis and Characterization, Bristol, UK Member of the selection committee for the Institut Universitaire de France Co-editor of the Journal of Colloid Science and Biotechnology Advising and Grants: Serge Stoll has supervised approximately 10 PhD theses, including recent graduates A.D.J. Negrete Velasco and G.J. Hul. His research is supported by the Swiss National Research Foundation and through participation in large-scale European projects such as NanoFASE and NanoMILE, indicating sustained funding and international collaboration. Laboratories and Research Teams: His group operates within the Institute of Environmental Sciences (ISE) at the University of Geneva and collaborates extensively with European and international research groups. The team combines experimental and computational approaches to study colloidal systems in environmental contexts, contributing to both fundamental science and practical water treatment solutions.

B. ZeebView profile

Professor

• Phytoremediation
• Environmental Site Remediation
• Contaminant Dispersal Modelling
• +3 more

B. Zeeb is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at the Royal Military College of Canada. Their research focuses on phytoremediation techniques, contaminant dispersal modeling, and environmental site remediation. Key projects include the use of halophytes and zero-valent iron (ZVI) to address soil contamination. Education: PhD, Queen's University BSc, Queen's University Research Interests: Dr. Zeeb's work emphasizes sustainable solutions for contaminated sites, including innovative applications of plants (phytoremediation) and advanced materials like ZVI. This research bridges environmental chemistry, engineering, and ecological restoration. Recent Publications: Focus on cement kiln dust remediation, DDT degradation, and bioremediation strategies for contaminated soils and landfills. Grants & Awards: No specific grants or awards listed in the provided text. Labs/Teams: No explicit mention of affiliated labs or research groups in the text.

Maryam Mohammadi-AraghView profile

Research Professor

• Pathogen mitigation in poultry production
• Sustainable agroforestry systems
• Environmental microbiology
• +3 more

Maryam Mohammadi-Aragh is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Mississippi State University. Her research focuses on pathogen mitigation in poultry production systems, sustainable agroforestry, and environmental microbiology. She holds a Ph.D. in Sustainable Bioproducts, along with M.S. and B.S. degrees in Food Science from Mississippi State University. Education: Ph.D., Sustainable Bioproducts, Mississippi State University M.S., Food Science, Nutrition, and Health Promotion, Mississippi State University B.S., Food Science, Nutrition, and Health Promotion, Mississippi State University Research Interests: Optimizing disinfection methods for poultry hatching eggs using electrostatic spray technology Exploring biochar applications in poultry litter management to reduce pathogen loads Investigating microbial community dynamics in agricultural systems Key Contributions: Published findings on biochar's impact on E. coli populations in poultry litter Developed methods for assessing integron presence in poultry litter Conducted metagenomic analyses of wood preservative-treated field stakes Her work bridges environmental engineering, microbiology, and sustainable agriculture to address critical challenges in poultry production and agroecosystem management.

• Microbial Electrosynthesis
• CO2 Conversion
• Wastewater Treatment
• +3 more

Guillermo Pelaz Guerra is a researcher at the Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering at Universidad de Alcalá (UAH). He holds a PhD from the Universidad de León (2023) with a thesis focusing on microbial electromethanogenesis and process optimization under varying environmental conditions. His work integrates electrochemistry, microbial ecology, and environmental engineering to address challenges in sustainable energy production and waste valorization. Research interests include microbial electrosynthesis for CO2 conversion, bioelectrochemical systems for methane production, and the development of low-temperature bioprocesses. He leads the IQUAH (Chemical and Environmental Engineering) research group, exploring applications in wastewater treatment, biofilm engineering, and carbon footprint reduction in industrial systems. His publications emphasize process scalability, parameter optimization (e.g., pH, temperature, gas composition), and the impact of operational disruptions on bioprocess stability. Key advancements include studies on hydrothermal carbonization exhaust gas conversion and the use of waste-derived activated carbon for dye removal. Guillermo’s work bridges fundamental microbiology with applied engineering solutions, aiming to create resilient and sustainable bioprocess frameworks.

Selçuk YildirimView profile

Professor

• Sustainable Food Packaging
• Active Packaging Technologies
• Biopolymer Composites
• +5 more

Prof. Dr. Selçuk Yildirim is a leading researcher in sustainable food packaging technologies at the ZHAW School of Life Sciences and Facility Management . His work focuses on developing innovative solutions to extend food shelf life while minimizing environmental impact through biopolymer composites, oxygen scavenging systems, and valorization of food industry side streams. Current Projects : Sustainable Food & Packaging Knowledge Hub, Valorization of Swiss Agri-Food Side Streams, Calcium Carbonate-Based Active Packaging Research Themes : Biopolymer Films, Oxygen Scavenging, Antimicrobial Packaging, Modified Atmosphere Packaging Research Trends in his publications span Food Chemistry , Material Science , and Environmental Sustainability . Key subfields include Biopolymer Composites Active/Intelligent Packaging Essential Oil Applications Palladium Catalysts Nanomaterial Integration Waste Valorization Patents include Antimicrobial Coatings (WO2021224317A1) and Compostable Capsules (WO2021044024A1). Collaboration Networks involve institutions like ETH Zurich, Victoria University, and COST Action FA0904. He has presented at 21st IAPRI World Conference, EuroFoodChem XX, and Baltic Polymer Symposium.

Bob ColemanView profile

Associate Professor

• Equine nutrition
• Utilization of forages by horses
• Horse care and management
• +1 more

Bob Coleman is an Associate Professor in the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment at the University of Kentucky , specializing in equine extension. His career spans 1998–present at the University of Kentucky and 1980–1998 at Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development. Education : PhD in Animal Science (University of Alberta, 1998), MS in Animal Science (University of Manitoba, 1978), BS in Agriculture (University of Manitoba, 1975) Dr. Coleman's research focuses on equine nutrition , forage utilization , horse management , and industry economics . He has contributed extensively to equine facility design, pasture management, and health-related studies. His recent publications (2016–2024) address practical challenges in equine agriculture, including rotational grazing, arena maintenance, facility design, and metabolic health. These works emphasize applied solutions for sustainable horse management.