Jon Simon is the Joan Reinhart Professor and Professor of Applied Physics at Stanford University . He leads the Simon Lab , which explores the convergence of condensed matter physics , quantum optics , and quantum information science , focusing on creating synthetic materials from light and investigating topological and strongly correlated quantum systems. His research spans constructing photonic materials in quantum circuits, studying small quantum systems with strong correlations, and applying Hamiltonian engineering to realize exotic states of matter. The lab has achieved milestones like the first Mott insulator of photons and topologically insulating circuits . Collaborative projects with the Schuster Lab leverage superconducting quantum circuits for synthetic matter studies. Jon's students include Adam Shaw (PhD, now at Stony Brook) Lavanya Taneja (PhD, now at Atom Computing) Ruichao Ma (Postdoc, now faculty at Purdue) among others. The lab's recent publications focus on cavity arrays, hybrid quantum systems, and topological photonics. Research is supported by grants and affiliations with Stanford's Department of Applied Physics and interdisciplinary institutes.
Dr Andrew Rhead is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bath, specializing in aerospace composites and damage tolerance analysis. His research focuses on impact damage detection, failure mechanism modeling, and Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) techniques for composite structures. MSci in Mathematical Sciences (Dynamical Systems) - University of Bristol (2006) PhD in Composite Damage Tolerance - University of Bath (2009) His work develops computationally efficient analytical models for compression after impact (CAI) strength prediction in composite laminates, surpassing traditional finite element methods. Key projects include hydrogen storage systems for aircraft, cryogenic composite testing, and steered fiber manufacturing optimization. Active in 10 projects including ASPIRE and HyFIVE Collaborates with Airbus, GKN Aerospace, and EPSRC Research trends show emphasis on sustainable aviation materials, structural battery integration, and advanced testing methodologies. Current affiliations include the Institute for Mathematical Innovation (IMI) and Centre for Integrated Materials, Processes & Structures (IMPS).
Danick Briand is a Senior Scientist at the Soft Transducers Laboratory within the Microsystems for Space Applications Group (LMTS) at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). His work focuses on MEMS and Microsystems for environmentally friendly technology , integrating flexible and printed electronics with applications in energy harvesting , smart sensing systems , and advanced gas sensing . Research Themes : Environmental sensors using microsystem technology Green microtechnologies and micromanufacturing Ultra-low energy MEMS Energy-saving and harvesting systems Recent Publications : Developed transient biodegradable sensors and microwave sensing technologies using printed and degradable materials Explored flexible piezoelectric systems and wearable sweat analyzers for biomedical applications Advanced inkjet-printed biosensors and eco-friendly fabrication methods Labs & Collaborations : Soft Transducers Laboratory (EPFL) Laboratory for Microsystems (LMTS)
John Davis is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Alberta, Faculty of Science. He holds a PhD and MSc from Northwestern University and a Bachelor’s from Washington University. His research focuses on nanomechanics, superfluidity, and superconductivity, particularly in confined geometries and quantum properties of nanomechanical systems. His lab develops superfluid-based technologies for dark matter detection and precision measurement. He has held academic positions since 2010, including roles at the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research and postdoctoral training at the University of Alberta with Prof. Mark R. Freeman. Education: PhD in Physics (2008), Northwestern University MSc in Physics (2003), Northwestern University Bachelor’s in Physics with Honors (2001), Washington University Research Interests: Superfluid nanomechanical resonators Ultralow-temperature superfluid 3He Nanofluidic cavity quantum electrodynamics Quantum-limited torque magnetometry Applications in dark matter detection and gravitational wave sensing His recent work emphasizes magnomechanics and optomechanical transduction , integrating superfluid systems with quantum sensors. Articles highlight advancements in cryogenic devices, nonlinear dynamics, and hybrid quantum systems. Ongoing projects include the HElium-based Light Operated Superfluid (HELIOS) dark matter detector. Grants & Labs: His lab operates a cryogen-efficient low-temperature facility, focusing on microfluidic quantum fluid experiments. Collaborations involve advanced photonic crystal cavities and diamond-based optomechanical platforms.
Edoardo Charbon is a Full Professor at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in the School of Engineering, where he leads the Advanced Quantum Architecture Lab (AQUA). He also serves on the School Council STI and is Co-Director of STI-SSIQ Administration. Previously, he was a full professor and chair at Delft University of Technology from 2008 to 2016. Charbon received his Elektrotechnik Diploma from ETH Zurich, M.S. from UC San Diego, and Ph.D. from UC Berkeley, all in electrical engineering. His career spans industry experience at Cadence Design Systems and Canesta Inc. before joining EPFL in 2002. His research focuses on ultra high-speed and 3D optical sensors, with applications in LiDAR, FLIM (Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy), PET (Positron Emission Tomography), FCS (Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy), and NIROT (Near-Infrared Optical Tomography). He has pioneered deep-submicron CMOS SPAD technology, which is now mass-produced and used in smartphones, telemeters, and medical diagnostics. His recent work bridges cryo-CMOS circuits for quantum computing with advanced optical sensing techniques. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward integrating quantum technologies with practical imaging applications. His work spans from fundamental device development (SPAD sensors, cryo-CMOS circuits) to applied systems (LiDAR engines, medical imaging devices), with increasing integration of machine learning techniques for real-time processing. 2023 IISS Pioneering Achievement Award Fellow of the IEEE Distinguished visiting scholar, W. M. Keck Institute for Space at Caltech Fellow, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft Distinguished lecturer, IEEE Photonics Society Professor Charbon has authored or co-authored over 500 papers and two books, and holds 27 patents. His research has been supported by collaborations with organizations including Bosch, X-Fab, Texas Instruments, Maxim, Sony, Agilent, and the Carlyle Group. He has driven significant innovation in CMOS SPAD technology, which is now commercially deployed in various applications. He leads the Advanced Quantum Architecture Lab (AQUA) at EPFL, which focuses on the development of advanced sensor systems combining quantum technologies with conventional electronics. The lab has been instrumental in creating SPAD-based imaging systems that push the boundaries of time-resolved optical detection.
Prof. Dr. André Rubbia is a Full Professor of Experimental Physics at ETH Zurich's Department of Physics, holding this position since December 2003 after serving as Associate Professor from 1998. His research spans neutrino physics, astro-particle physics, and dark matter detection through major international collaborations including CERN, Gran Sasso National Laboratory, and Fermilab. He currently serves as Co-Spokesperson for the billion-dollar DUNE neutrino project at Fermilab, managing over 900 scientists. His educational background includes: Diploma in Physics from the University of Geneva (1990), with thesis work on the L3 experiment at CERN's LEP accelerator Ph.D. in Physics from MIT (1993) under Nobel Laureate S.C.C. Ting, focusing on high-energy electron-positron collisions Rubbia's research centers on fundamental particle interactions, particularly neutrino oscillations and physics beyond the Standard Model. He pioneered liquid Argon Time Projection Chamber (LAr TPC) technology and dual-phase detection systems, enabling breakthroughs in neutrino mass measurements and dark matter searches. His work spans underground laboratories (Gran Sasso, Canfranc), the LHC's CMS detector, and neutrino beam experiments like T2K. Recent explorations include antimatter gravity tests, electron-positron bound states, and dark hidden sector searches. His 2025 publications reveal intense focus on neutrino oscillation parameter precision (T2K, Hyper-Kamiokande), FASER's LHC neutrino program, and DarkSide-20k dark matter detector development. Key themes include cross-section measurements, advanced detector technologies (SiPMs, emulsion tracking), and statistical methods for oscillation analysis, reflecting integration of theoretical modeling with cutting-edge instrumentation. Scientific recognition includes: Breakthrough Prize for Fundamental Physics (2016) awarded to the international team for discovering matter-anti-matter asymmetry in neutrino oscillations APS Viewpoint selection for editing the paper announcing first electron neutrino appearance at accelerators Rubbia has supervised over fifty PhD and Master's theses while securing substantial research funding as Principal Investigator for 20+ Swiss National Science Foundation projects and Coordinator of two EU FP7 Design Studies. His DUNE leadership involves complex international grant management across 30+ countries. He leads ETH Zurich's experimental particle physics group across multiple facilities: the ICARUS neutrino detector at Gran Sasso, CMS at CERN, DUNE at Fermilab, and DarkSide-20k for direct dark matter detection. His team developed the first underground ton-scale liquid argon detector and maintains collaborations with Japanese (Super-Kamiokande) and American (Fermilab) institutions.
Prof. dr. Steven Hoekstra is an Associate Professor of Atomic and Molecular Physics at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Science and Engineering, within the Van Swinderen Institute. His research focuses on precision measurements using cold molecules to explore fundamental physics, including Stark deceleration, laser cooling, and searches for physics beyond the Standard Model. He leads the NL-eEDM program at Nikhef, investigating the electron's electric dipole moment. Hoekstra is also involved in educational innovation, having received the Teacher of the Year award (2020) and a Senior Teacher Qualification (2023). He has supervised over 11 PhD theses and currently mentors 5 students. His work combines experimental techniques with theoretical insights, addressing questions like symmetry violations and quantum dynamics. Key projects include manipulating BaF molecules with electrostatic fields and exploring levitated nanoparticles as sensors. Hoekstra has secured major grants, including NWO VICI (2022) and VIDI (2013), and collaborates internationally on projects like the European Strategy for particle physics. Recent articles highlight advancements in molecular beam control, spin-precession methods for EDM searches, and opportunities in radioactive molecules. He actively participates in the Physics Olympiad Netherlands as chair, contributing to science outreach and education.
Nonappa Nonappa is an Associate Professor (tenure track) in Nanochemistry at Tampere University's Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences since 2020. With a multidisciplinary background spanning organic chemistry, supramolecular systems, nanoparticle self-assembly, and advanced electron microscopy, he leads research at the intersection of materials science and biomedical applications. PhD in Organic Chemistry (IISc Bangalore, 2008) Docent in Soft Matter Microscopy (Aalto University, 2017) Executive MBA (Quantic School, 2020) Research focuses on bio-based optical materials using nanocellulose for sustainable photonics, breast cancer models via lab-on-a-chip systems, and precision nanomaterials through tailored self-assembly mechanisms. His team develops 3D extracellular matrices for cancer tissue culture and plasmonic nanodevices for photonic applications. Recent publications highlight gold/silver nanocluster assemblies (43+ citations in 2021-2025), electron tomography for structural analysis, and metastasis modeling systems. Key awards include Italy's Abilitazione Scientifica Nazionale (2018) and Aalto University's Docent title (2017).
David Goldhaber-Gordon is a Professor in the Department of Physics at Stanford University, specializing in nanoscale electron behavior and quantum effects. His research spans nanofabrication, materials growth, low-temperature measurements, and scanning probe techniques, focusing on materials like graphene, carbon nanotubes, and topological insulators. Harvard AB in Physics (1994) Harvard AM in History of Science (1994) MIT PhD in Physics (1999) His work explores electron organization and flow in nanoscale systems, emphasizing quantum effects and interactions. Research areas include twisted bilayer graphene, helical trilayer platforms, and topological insulator applications for quantum devices and energy technologies. Recent publications focus on strain effects in twisted graphene, moiré superlattice engineering, and quantum anomalous Hall integration. Themes include topological phases, correlated insulators, and metrology advancements. Co-founder and Director, Center for Probing the Nanoscale (NSF Center) Junior Fellow, Harvard Society of Fellows He teaches advanced physics labs, independent research, and dissertation courses at Stanford. His group collaborates with materials scientists, engineers, and chemists to develop novel electronic applications.
Roman Schnabel is a Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Hamburg , affiliated with the Institute for Laser Physics under the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences. He leads cutting-edge research in quantum optics, gravitational wave detection, and quantum technologies. Education : PhD in Physics (1999, Leibniz Universität Hannover); Physics degree (1988–1994, Leibniz Universität Hannover) Awards : QCMC 2018 Award, Gruber Cosmology Prize 2016 (LIGO team), Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics 2016 (LIGO team), Joseph F. Keithley Award 2012 His recent work explores high-frequency gravitational wave observatories , entanglement generation , and quantum-enhanced sensing . He holds patents for gas sensors and optical surface imaging technologies. Schnabel co-founded the start-up Noisy Labs in 2023 and served as Director of Outreach & Transfer for the Cluster of Excellence 'Quantum Universe' (2019–2022).
Joshua Gess is an Associate Professor in the Mechanical, Industrial, and Manufacturing Engineering department at Oregon State University's College of Engineering. He joined Oregon State in 2015 and serves as a co-principal investigator at the Enhanced Heat Transfer Laboratory, where he leads research in thermal management solutions for high-performance microelectronics. His educational background includes: PhD, Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, 2015 MS, Mechanical Engineering, Auburn University, 2012 B.E., Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, 2005 Before academia, he worked as a mechanical engineer at SSOE Group (including consulting for Johns Manville) and Northrop Grumman where he focused on military communication equipment. Professor Gess specializes in advancing thermal management solutions for high-performance microelectronic equipment. His research spans multiple scales, examining single and two-phase heat transfer on the macro-scale with passive and active liquid immersion techniques, as well as on the micro and nano scale for complex embedded thermal management solutions. He combines fundamental heat transfer knowledge with novel experimental methods such as two-phase PIV and high-speed image capture to develop reliable and energy-efficient cooling solutions for demanding electronics systems. His publication record demonstrates a clear trajectory toward increasingly sophisticated thermal management solutions, with recent work focusing on additive manufacturing applications for cooling systems, semiconductor thermal management, and nuclear reactor cooling systems. His research has significant implications for data center energy efficiency, where even small improvements in cooling efficiency could save enormous amounts of energy that could be returned to the grid. Gess is deeply committed to mentoring graduate students, emphasizing the practical applications of engineering principles. He attributes his interest in engineering to childhood influences like the movie RoboCop and the TV series MacGyver, and finds the reality of engineering work just as gratifying as he'd imagined. He particularly values the moments when his graduate students "get it" and watching them grow with each new accomplishment. As a person with a disability himself, Gess is passionate about establishing more robust support systems for people with disabilities at Oregon State. He is working with the School of Public Health to start an adaptive sports program, with the goal of building infrastructure that allows anyone to feel welcome and pursue advanced degrees at the university.
Jonathan Baugh is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Waterloo, serving as Director of the Quantum Information Graduate Program. His research focuses on quantum devices, nanoelectronics, and molecular electronics with affiliations at the Institute for Quantum Computing and Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology. He leads the Baugh Research Lab, exploring quantum control, semiconductor spin qubits, and superconducting hybrid systems. Research interests include quantum information processing, nanoscale charge transport, and the development of next-generation photonic sources. His work bridges quantum physics and materials science, with recent breakthroughs in dopant-free semiconductors and single-molecule transistors. Publications emphasize scalable quantum architectures, noise mitigation in quantum control, and phase-coherent molecular electronics. Current projects involve cryogenic CMOS device modeling and topological quantum computing in silicon-based systems. No awards are explicitly listed, though his work has been highlighted in invited reviews and special sessions on quantum systems. Advising focuses on graduate students in quantum nanotechnology and condensed matter physics. His lab collaborates on integrated quantum networks and III-V/Si nanowire photodetectors. Labs/Teams: Baugh Research Lab (Quantum Nanoelectronics Group), Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC), Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology (WIN).
Mark Bocko is a Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Rochester, affiliated with the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences. He holds roles as Director of the Center for Emerging and Innovative Sciences (CEIS) and Director of Audio & Music Engineering. He earned his PhD in Physics from the University of Rochester in 1984, focusing on gravitational wave detectors. His research spans audio signal processing, sensors, superconductivity, and quantum computing. Notable contributions include flat-panel loudspeaker development, non-contact ECG sensors, and quantum coherence studies in Josephson junctions. Research interests include audio and acoustic signal processing, computer audition, and sensor technologies. His work integrates interdisciplinary approaches, combining electrical engineering, physics, and computer science. Awards include the 2012 Goergen Award for Teaching and Mercer Brugler Distinguished Teaching Professor (2008–2011). Recent publications address modal crossover networks for loudspeakers, vibrational touch sensing, and room impulse response modeling. He has advised PhD students on topics like spatial audio rendering and musical vibrato analysis. His labs focus on advancing audio engineering and smart sensor systems through collaborative industry partnerships.
Dr. Chih-Hung (James) Chen is a Professor in the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering at McMaster University. His research focuses on noise-related issues in semiconductor devices, low-noise circuit design for medical and communication applications, and thermal noise characterization in nano-scale transistors. He holds senior member status in IEEE and is a licensed Professional Engineer in Ontario. Education: Ph.D., McMaster University, 2002 M.A.Sc., Simon Fraser University, 1997 B.Sc., National Central University, Taiwan, 1991 Research interests include biomedical technologies, microelectronics & VLSI, and digital/smart systems. He has collaborated with companies like Sony Corporation, United Microelectronics Corporation, and Focus Microwaves. His work is supported by grants from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), NSERC, and the Ontario Innovation Trust (OIT). Notable achievements include serving on the International Advisory Committee of the International Conference on Noise and Fluctuations (2015) and as an editor for the Journal of Low Power Electronics and Applications since 2022. Teaching includes courses like Analysis and Design of RF ICs for Communications and Electronic Devices and Circuits 2. His research lab focuses on advancing noise measurement techniques and designing ultra-low-power analog circuits for emerging applications.
Boris Murmann is Professor at Stanford University, specializing in integrated circuit design, mixed-signal computing, and energy-efficient AI hardware. His research advances neural interface technologies, analog design automation, and tinyML systems. Recent work develops ultra-low-power neural recording ICs for brain-computer interfaces, RRAM-based memory systems, and open-source semiconductor design frameworks. Publications demonstrate innovations in compressive sensing for neural data, hardware-algorithm co-design, and reinforcement learning for analog circuit synthesis. Significant contributions include Medusa (TinyML processor), EMBER (RRAM macro), and methodologies for coarsely-quantized computer vision and analog design automation.
