Niko Siltala is a University Instructor at Tampere University's Department of Automation Technology and Mechanical Engineering. He holds a Doctor of Science (Technology) in Mechanical Engineering (2016) and a Master of Science (Technology) in Automation Engineering (2001). His research focuses on production system design, reconfiguration, robotics, and virtual reality applications in safety training. He has contributed to the development of semantic rules for capability matchmaking, which supports rapid system design and reconfiguration. Key research areas include: Manufacturing automation and system adaptability Human-robot collaboration and safety protocols Virtual reality-based training solutions Formal resource descriptions for modular systems His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in advancing quality education (SDG 4) through innovative robotics education tools. He has received the Distinguished Committee Service Award (2004) and contributed to grants such as the K.F. ja Maria Dunderbergin testamenttisäätiö (2014). He has collaborated on projects like the D-BEST methodology for pilot lines and the ODIN project for scalable production systems. His activities include organizing conferences, presenting at international forums, and developing web-based tools for manufacturing system planning.
Börge Göbel is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute of Physics, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, within the Quantum Theory of the Solid State group led by Prof. Ingrid Mertig. He is affiliated with the Faculty of Natural Sciences II - Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics and conducts theoretical research in condensed matter physics, focusing on topological spin textures and their applications in spintronics and orbitronics. PhD in Physics (summa cum laude, 2020), Max Planck Institute Halle MSc in Physics (1.1, 2016), Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg BSc in Physics (1.2, 2014), Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg Abitur (1.0, 2011) His research centers on the interplay between topology and transport in magnetic systems, particularly skyrmions, antiskyrmions, bimerons, and hopfions. He investigates their stability, emergent electrodynamics (e.g., topological Hall effect), and dynamics under current drive, with applications in racetrack memory, neuromorphic computing, and quantum devices. A major focus is on two-dimensional materials and electron gases, where he studies spin- and orbital-to-charge interconversion. He has pioneered work in orbitronics, demonstrating the orbital Hall effect accompanying the quantum Hall effect and topological orbital Hall effects in skyrmion systems. The most recent publications show a strong trend toward the exploration of orbital angular momentum in quantum transport, the stabilization of skyrmions in van der Waals materials, and the development of neuromorphic computing concepts using biskyrmions. His work bridges fundamental theoretical insights with potential technological applications in next-generation electronics. Börge Göbel is funded by the EIC Pathfinder OPEN Grant "Orbital engineering for innovative electronics" and is a co-supervisor in the EU Horizon 2020 project "SPEAR". He has co-supervised 2 PhD, 2 master's, and 4 bachelor's students and teaches quantum mechanics, including online courses with over 30,000 participants. Co-PI, EIC Pathfinder OPEN Grant: "Orbital engineering for innovative electronics" Co-Supervisor, EU Horizon 2020 project "SPEAR" Network Postdoc, EU project "OBELIX" He collaborates extensively with experimental groups worldwide, including those of Prof. Stuart Parkin, Prof. Claudia Felser, Dr. Manuel Bibes, and Prof. Albert Fert, and has presented at major conferences such as MMM, JEMS, Gordon, DPG, and SPICE.
Satya Prakash Saraswat is a Postdoctoral Researcher at KTH Royal Institute of Technology's Nuclear Science and Engineering Unit in Stockholm, Sweden. He holds a Ph.D. from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, with expertise in thermal-hydraulics, nuclear reactor safety, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and system code development. His work spans fission and fusion reactor analysis, including contributions to the VALIDATIO project (University of Pisa) for fusion safety tools and the ATLAS project (Khalifa University) for advanced reactor safety enhancements. Research interests focus on computational modeling, AI integration in nuclear safety, and experimental validation of safety systems. He has developed skills in both experimental and numerical techniques, addressing challenges in multiphase flow, reactor core dynamics, and material compatibility. Key projects include validation of ASYST and SIMMER codes for condensation phenomena and lead-lithium interaction studies. Publications highlight advancements in burn-up wave characterization, code stability analysis (RELAP5/SIMMER), and thermal-hydraulic safety assessments for reactors like ESBWR and ITER systems. His work emphasizes enhancing safety tools through rigorous validation and innovative methodologies.
Stephen Kelty, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Seton Hall University, where he leads the Kelty Research Group. His work focuses on computational and physical chemistry, particularly in modeling solid-state and molecular systems using advanced methods like DFT and molecular dynamics. He is affiliated with the Center for Computational Research, leveraging its resources for interdisciplinary projects. Dr. Kelty’s research spans heterogeneous catalysis, defect analysis in oxides (e.g., YSZ, HfO₂), and photoactive materials for energy applications. Education: Ph.D., Chemistry, Harvard University (1993) M.Phil., Chemistry, Columbia University (1991) B.S., Chemistry, University of Cincinnati (1979) Research Interests: Dr. Kelty’s group investigates electronic and structural properties of materials at atomic and molecular scales. Key areas include: Computational modeling of catalytic mechanisms Defect engineering in oxides (e.g., YSZ thin films) Design of photoactive materials for solar energy conversion Ab initio and DFT studies of functionalized molecules Recent Trends in Publications: Recent work emphasizes computational analysis of ferroelectric hafnia, phase transitions in niobium germanate thin films, and enhanced performance in La/SrCoO₃ electrodes. Collaborations include studies at Los Alamos National Lab and presentations at the Organic Reactions Catalysis Society. Advising & Labs: Guided students like Sara Lamcaj (Los Alamos intern) and Frank Hung (APS presenter) Leverages the Center for Computational Research for high-performance simulations
Prof. Dr. Evren EKMEKÇİ is a Professor at the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Süleyman Demirel University. He holds a licentiate degree from Süleyman Demirel University and a doctorate from Middle East Technical University. His academic career includes roles as Assistant Professor (2011-2017) and Associate Professor (2017-2022) before his current position since 2022. His research focuses on metamaterials, electromagnetic theory, microwave techniques, antenna design, microwave sensors, and dielectric resonators. Notable contributions include high-impact studies on metamaterial-based sensors and terahertz applications, with over 1272 citations and an h-index of 16 (Google Scholar). Key research trends in his articles include metamaterial design for sensing applications, dielectric resonator-based sensors, and electromagnetic absorption mechanisms. He has led projects such as 'Multi-functional metamaterial sensor design' (2014-2017) and 'Chemical liquid sensing with all-dielectric absorbers' (2019-2021). Prof. EKMEKÇİ has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles in journals like IEEE Sensors Journal and Applied Physics A. His work bridges theoretical electromagnetic principles with practical sensor and antenna innovations. He teaches courses on antennas, electromagnetic waves, and microwave techniques, contributing to both academic and applied engineering education.
Denis Duhamel is a Professor and researcher at the Navier Laboratory, affiliated with École des Ponts ParisTech. He teaches mechanics courses at École nationale des ponts et chaussées and previously lectured at École Polytechnique. He earned his doctorate from École des Ponts ParisTech (1994) and research accreditation from University of Marne la Vallée (1998). His research focuses on structural acoustics, railway dynamics, tire-road noise, and numerical modeling of vibrations using Wave Finite Element (WFE) methods. Key areas include railway track dynamics, vibration control, and acoustic barrier performance. Notable projects involve dynamic analysis of periodic structures like railway tracks and metamaterials. Recent publications (2020–2025) emphasize wave-based methods for periodic structures, nonlinear foundation modeling, and in-situ measurements of acoustic barriers. His work bridges theoretical models with practical applications in transportation and structural engineering. Lab affiliations include the Navier Laboratory, a leading center for mechanics and materials research. He collaborates on projects like DEUFRABASE for pavement noise evaluation and ODSurf for optimized road surface design.
Professor Bo Chen holds a position in the Department of Materials at the University of Southampton, where he focuses on high-temperature structural materials and additive manufacturing. Previously, he served as a Professor of Engineering Materials at the University of Leicester (2019–2024), Senior Lecturer at Coventry University (2017–2019), and held postdoctoral roles at the University of Bristol and Manchester. He earned his BSc in Materials Engineering from Beihang University (2003–2007) and a PhD in Engineering from the University of Bristol (2007–2011). His research interests include creep/fatigue behavior, oxidation resistance, residual stress analysis, and advanced manufacturing techniques like electron beam melting. He is actively exploring digital twins and sustainable metallurgy to enhance engineering component durability. He currently supervises PhD student Qianyu Yao and has received an EPSRC Early-Career Fellowship (2018) and HEA Fellowship (2017). Recent publications emphasize additive manufacturing of superalloys, microstructural characterization, and fatigue mechanisms in materials. He has organized major conferences (e.g., ICF15, ESIA17–ISSI2023) and served as an external PhD examiner at several universities. His work bridges fundamental material science with industrial applications in aerospace and energy sectors.
Thomas Luyckx is a Visiting Lecturer in the Department of Development and Regeneration at KU Leuven. His work focuses on advanced orthopedic surgical techniques, particularly in knee reconstruction and biomechanics. University: KU Leuven Department: Department of Development and Regeneration Academic Rank: Lecturer Research Interests include: Robot-assisted total knee arthroplasty (TKA) Kinematic alignment strategies for TKA Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction biomechanics Finite element analysis of knee implants 3D patient-specific surgical planning Publication Trends highlight his contributions to evaluating robotic-assisted TKA, kinematic alignment methodologies, and ACL reconstruction outcomes. His work spans clinical studies, biomechanical modeling, and comparative analyses of surgical techniques. Projects involve collaborations on tissue-engineered cartilage repair, clinical outcome assessments, and biomechanical simulations. He serves as co-promotor in ongoing research until 2027.
Brian J. Jaques is an Assistant Professor in the Micron School of Materials Science and Engineering at Boise State University, where he joined in 2009. He also serves as the director of the Boise State Advanced Materials Laboratory (AML) and holds a joint appointment with the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). His extensive institutional affiliations include being the Nuclear Energy Focus lead at the Center for Advanced Energy Studies (CAES) in Idaho Falls and serving as the Boise State program director for the Advanced Sensors and Instrumentation (ASI) with the INL. Boise State University - Micron School of Materials Science and Engineering Idaho National Laboratory (Joint Appointment) Center for Advanced Energy Studies (CAES) - Nuclear Energy Focus Lead (2019-2022) Boise State Advanced Materials Laboratory (Director) Dr. Jaques' research focuses on materials for extreme environments, energy materials, and nuclear enabling technologies. His primary interests include nuclear fuel synthesis, sensor design for nuclear applications, sintering processes, corrosion science, gas-solid reaction kinetics, mechanochemistry, particle science/powder synthesis, and mechanical behavior of materials. His work often intersects with additive manufacturing techniques for nuclear applications and advanced sensor development for in-pile (reactor core) environments. His research output shows a clear trend toward developing materials and sensors for nuclear applications, with increasing emphasis on additive manufacturing techniques since 2018. His recent publications demonstrate expertise in uranium dioxide and carbide fuels, zirconium-based materials for nuclear thermal propulsion, boron nitride coatings, and advanced strain sensing technologies for extreme environments. Dr. Jaques has received numerous scientific awards including: NSF S-STEM Scholar (2004) Advanced Fuel Cycle Initiative/Generation IV Fellow (2006) Outstanding Mechanical Engineering Student Award (2006) Professional Engineer license in Metallurgy and Materials Science (2011) Materials Science and Engineering Scholar Award (2015) He has been actively involved in significant research funding, serving as Co-PI on multiple Nuclear Energy University Program grants and National Science Foundation projects. His current work includes international collaborations to advance high uranium density fuels for Small Modular Reactors and developing additively manufactured sensors for nuclear applications. Dr. Jaques also contributes to educational initiatives including the REU Site on Advanced Manufacturing for a Sustainable Energy Future. His laboratory work centers around the Boise State Advanced Materials Laboratory (AML) and collaborations with the Idaho National Laboratory, focusing on developing novel sensors for in-pile applications that provide real-time, accurate, and spatially resolved information regarding test conditions and the performance of fuels and materials during irradiation.
Hui (Claire) Xiong is a Professor at the Micron School of Materials Science and Engineering, Boise State University , specializing in advanced functional nanomaterials for sustainable energy systems . Prior to Boise, she held postdoctoral positions at Argonne National Laboratory and Harvard University , focusing on energy storage electrodes and micro-solid oxide fuel cells. Education : Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry and Electrochemistry (University of Pittsburgh), B.E./M.S. in Applied and Inorganic Chemistry (East China University of Science and Technology) Her research interests revolve around sustainable energy materials , particularly lithium/sodium-ion batteries , solid electrolytes , and defect-driven metal oxides . Her work has produced over 134 research outputs, including key contributions to TiO 2 nanotubes , FeSe/FeS heterostructures , and ion irradiation effects on electroceramics. Notable scientific awards include the Andrew Mellon Predoctoral Fellowship (2006) Royal Society of Chemistry Fellowship (2023) She has led multiple NSF-funded projects on topics like mixed ionic/electronic conductivity and defect-engineered metal oxides , while her publications highlight trends in solid-state battery interfaces , heterostructure engineering , and electrochemical characterization .
John Grout is the David C. Garrett Jr. Professor of Business Administration and Chair of the Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Data Analytics Department at Berry College, within the Campbell School of Business. He previously served as dean of the school and returned to full-time faculty in 2016, continuing his leadership in academic innovation. His research focuses on quality management, particularly mistake-proofing (poka-yoke), lean manufacturing, and the impact of user innovation on supply chains. He has made significant contributions to healthcare process improvement, with publications guiding error reduction in clinical settings. The recent articles reflect a strong trend in applying operational excellence to healthcare systems, integrating concepts from manufacturing into medical process design. His work emphasizes designing systems that prevent errors through structural and procedural safeguards, supported by economic and behavioral models. Scientific Awards: Shingo Prize for Excellence in Manufacturing (2004) for 'The Human Side of Mistake-Proofing' John Grout has advised various organizational improvement initiatives and led the development of Berry College’s Creative Technologies program and the HackBerry Lab makerspace. His grants include work supported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), resulting in influential publications on healthcare process safety. He has also consulted widely with firms to improve operational reliability. He is actively involved in academic leadership, curriculum development, and cross-disciplinary innovation, particularly in integrating technology and entrepreneurship into undergraduate education.
Gemma Catolino is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Computer Science, University of Salerno, and affiliated with the Software Engineering (SeSa) Lab. She has also served as an Assistant Professor at Tilburg University and Eindhoven University of Technology through the Jheronimus Academy of Data Science from September 2022 to December 2023, and previously as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Delft University of Technology and Tilburg/Eindhoven institutions. PhD in Computer Science, University of Salerno (2020), supervised by Prof. Filomena Ferrucci MSc in Management and Information Technology, University of Salerno (2016, magna cum laude) BSc in Computer Science, University of Molise (2014) Her research centers on empirical software engineering, focusing on both technical and social aspects affecting software development. Key areas include code smells, defect prediction, testability, changeability, and the emerging concept of “Community Smells”—social dysfunctions in developer teams. She investigates how human factors, team diversity (especially gender), and developer experience influence software quality and maintenance effort, often using mining software repositories and machine learning techniques. Her recent publications span high-impact journals and conferences such as IEEE TSE, EMSE, JSS, ICSE, and ICSME, with a strong trend toward integrating social and technical metrics for just-in-time defect prediction in mobile applications, analyzing community dynamics, and applying software quality metrics to cybersecurity contexts like dark web analysis. She has also contributed to MLOps and serverless computing. She has received several honors including a DEI research grant (2020), Best Technical Paper at BENEVOL 2019, first and second place in ACM Student Research Competitions (2018, 2017), and the Best Master Thesis award from the Italian Software Metrics Association (2017). Gemma Catolino has been actively engaged in academic service as a referee for top journals like IEEE TSE, EMSE, JSS, and IST, guest editor for special issues, and program/organizing committee member for major conferences including ICSE, MSR, SANER, and MobileSoft, where she served as Program Co-Chair in 2022. She has also contributed as a teaching assistant, lecturer, and course coordinator in machine learning and software engineering courses. She leads and contributes to research projects involving international collaborations, particularly with researchers such as Prof. Filomena Ferrucci, Prof. Andy Zaidman, Prof. Willem-Jam van den Heuvel, and Prof. Alexander Serebrenik. Her work bridges empirical software engineering with practical tool development and socio-technical analysis, positioning her at the forefront of modern software engineering research.
Stephen J. McDonnell is an Associate Professor at the University of Virginia's School of Engineering and Applied Science, Department of Materials Science and Engineering. His research focuses on interfaces in nanoelectronics, 2D materials integration, surface science, and energy conversion. He leads the McDonnell Group, which investigates materials synthesis in-vacuo, electronic structure via photoelectron spectroscopy, and anti-viral properties of copper alloys. Education: B.S. in Applied Physics (Dublin City University, 2004), Ph.D. in Physical Sciences (Dublin City University, 2009) Teaching: Courses include 'Materials for Electronic/Magnetic/Optical Applications' and 'Introduction to Materials Science.' Key research interests include nanoelectronics, 2D materials (e.g., WSe₂, MoS₂), ferroelectric HfO₂/ZrO₂ interfaces, and anti-viral copper-based alloys. His group correlates synthesis conditions with device properties like contact resistance and thermal boundary conductance. Publications span 2D material growth, interface engineering, and catalytic materials. Collaborations emphasize device-relevant properties and real-world applications in energy and healthcare.
Bello Sambo is a Research Assistant in the Department of Engineering at the School of Computing and Engineering, University of Huddersfield. He is also a member of the Institute of Railway Research. His work focuses on railway engineering, particularly on wheel-rail interaction and condition monitoring. Role: Research Assistant University: University of Huddersfield Research Group: Institute of Railway Research Sambo's research expertise includes modelling and simulation , wheel-rail contact dynamics , and condition monitoring . His work addresses challenges in railway engineering, such as impact loads at crossings, crack propagation, and rail profile optimization. He employs techniques like image processing and dynamic system analysis to improve predictive maintenance and reduce fatigue damage in railway components. Recent research outputs highlight his contributions to wheel-rail interaction in switches and crossings (2023), impact load reduction (2020), and condition-based monitoring (2015). His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals by advancing infrastructure resilience and sustainable transport systems. Sambo is currently supervising PhD students and leading a 2024 project on image-based wheel profile measurement . He collaborates internationally and has an h-index of 20, with research outputs spanning 2015–2023.
Daria Hemmerling , PhD, Eng., is a Lecturer at the Department of Metrology and Electronics under the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Automatics, Computer Science and Biomedical Engineering at AGH University of Science and Technology in Kraków. Her research focuses on the intersection of biomedical engineering, voice analysis, and artificial intelligence, particularly for neurological and cardiovascular disease diagnostics. Research Interests : Applying mixed reality and AI for Parkinson’s disease assessment Voice/speech biomarkers for heart failure and neurodegenerative disorders Deep learning techniques in medical imaging (e.g., skull segmentation/reconstruction) Haptic feedback systems for multisensory interaction Simulation training in electrophysiology education Unsupervised learning and modality translation in biomedical signal processing Scientific Trends : Her recent work emphasizes multimodal diagnostic systems integrating voice analysis, VR/MR visualization, and deep learning. She explores explainable AI for medical classification tasks, data augmentation strategies, and innovative haptic/gamification interfaces.
