B. L. Turner II is a Regents' Professor and Gilbert F. White Professor of Environment and Society at Arizona State University, affiliated with the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning and the School of Sustainability. His work focuses on human-environment relationships, land system science, urban sustainability, and ancient Maya studies. Education: PhD in Geography from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (1974), MA and BS from the University of Texas at Austin. Research Interests: Land system architecture, tropical deforestation, urban heat islands, and sustainability science. His research has been supported by NSF, NASA, USDA, and others. Key contributions include studies on land change in the Southern Yucatán, vulnerability frameworks, and urban climate adaptation. Major Awards: Preston E. James Award, Sustainability Science Award, Fellowships from AAAS and NAS. Turner has advised over 50 doctoral students and contributed to interdisciplinary initiatives like the Central Arizona-Phoenix Long-Term Ecological Research (CAP LTER) and the Global Land Project.
Kevin Manaugh is an Associate Professor at McGill University, specializing in Urban Planning with a focus on sustainable transportation and spatial justice. His research examines how decision-making processes in urban development balance environmental, economic, and social equity goals, particularly through transport systems. He holds a PhD in Urban Planning from McGill University (2013). His key research interests include integrating social equity into land use policies, analyzing accessibility impacts on socioeconomically diverse populations, and studying behavior change related to sustainable transportation. Current projects explore equitable transit accessibility, responses to local mobility policies, and health/well-being effects of sustainable transport choices. Manaugh has published extensively on transportation equity, urban form analysis, and GIS applications. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical policy implementation, emphasizing participatory approaches to urban planning. Notable contributions include studies on pandemic street reallocation equity and cycling infrastructure prioritization strategies. His research has been supported by interdisciplinary collaborations and applied to Canadian urban contexts. Despite prolific output, Manaugh maintains an active engagement with public discourse on urban mobility challenges and equitable urban futures.
Dr. Mo Adda is a Principal Lecturer at the University of Portsmouth's School of Computing, part of the Faculty of Technology. He holds a PhD in Distributed Systems and Parallel Processing from the University of Surrey. His research focuses on network security, distributed systems, wireless networks, and cybercrime prevention. He leads projects in the Centre for Cybercrime and Economic Crime, exploring fault management in networks, blockchain applications, and IoT forensics. With 16 supervised theses, he advises on topics like energy-efficient cloud systems and machine learning for environmental modeling. His work bridges academia and industry, addressing challenges in software-defined networks, traffic control, and secure data sharing in social networks. Education: PhD in Distributed Systems (University of Surrey) Affiliations: Centre of Excellence in Defence, Risk & Resilience; Portsmouth Centre for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Research Interests Dr. Adda's research spans: Network security and fault detection mechanisms Blockchain applications in IoT and forensics Energy-efficient cloud data center optimization Machine learning for climate modeling Self-organizing network protocols Grants & Collaborations His projects include collaborations with industry partners on secure data leakage detection in cloud systems and resilient wireless protocols for harsh environments. He has pioneered fault classification systems using clustering algorithms and fuzzy logic. Labs & Teams He contributes to the Centre for Cybercrime and Economic Crime, focusing on digital forensics and network intrusion analysis. His team develops frameworks for privacy management in social networks and proactive routing in software-defined networks.
Armelle Choplin is an Associate Professor at the University of Geneva's Department of Geography and Environment within the Geneva School of Social Sciences, and affiliated with the Global Studies Institute since 2019. She serves as Director of the Institute of Environmental Governance and Territorial Development (IGEDT), leading research on urban transformations in the Global South. Research Focus Her research examines urban policies, social transformations, and development challenges in African cities and the Global South. Core interests include: urban planning dynamics, governance frameworks, construction industry impacts, poverty alleviation, sustainable development pathways, globalization effects, digital innovation in urban contexts, and postcolonial urban studies. Her geographical specialization focuses on West Africa and MENA regions. Publication Analysis Recent publications (2017-2024) demonstrate consistent focus on material urbanism, governance innovations, and spatial justice in African cities. Key thematic clusters include: urban material flows (concrete, energy), participatory planning methods, transnational urban corridors, and postcolonial urban theory. Methodologically, her work combines spatial analysis with political economy and ethnographic approaches. Research Leadership She directs multiple international projects including: Global Urb: Global Urbanism from the South MatéRhône: Construction materials in Rhone Valley West African Coastal Corridor study (Accra-Lagos axis) URBACOT: West African Coastal Urban Dynamics Observatory Map&Jerry: Participatory mapping in Cotonou Student Advising Currently supervising eight doctoral candidates researching urban development topics across Africa. Her teaching portfolio includes courses on urban globalization, metropolitan governance, spatial justice, and regional project development at both bachelor's and master's levels.
Megan S. Ryerson holds the UPS Chair of Transportation and serves as Associate Chair of City and Regional Planning at the University of Pennsylvania's Stuart Weitzman School of Design. Previously, she was Associate Dean for Research (2018–2023), demonstrating sustained leadership in academic administration while maintaining an active research profile focused on transportation systems integration. Her educational credentials include: Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley (2010) B.Sc. in Systems Engineering, University of Pennsylvania (2003) Ryerson's research pioneers the integration of intercity transportation into urban planning frameworks, with foundational work in aviation infrastructure planning , airline demand forecasting , and transportation resilience . She investigates airport competition dynamics across megaregions, airline disaster recovery protocols, and fuel-efficient flight planning methodologies. Her scholarship actively bridges civil engineering and urban planning disciplines to design transportation systems that are inherently safe , efficient , and resilient against disruptions. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a pronounced shift toward transportation equity since 2022, particularly examining driver education accessibility ('driver training deserts') and bikeshare infrastructure allocation. This equity focus coexists with continued aviation research, while pandemic-era studies on transportation behavior (2020–2023) demonstrate methodological adaptability through quasi-experimental designs and real-world crisis response analysis. Her scientific recognition includes: UPS Chair of Transportation (prestigious endowed professorship) Dr. Ryerson has significantly expanded urban planning pedagogy by incorporating megaregional transportation systems into core curricula. Her leadership as former Associate Dean for Research reflects active engagement with funding agencies and research administration, though specific grant details aren't documented in source materials. Current work emphasizes translating research into equitable policy frameworks, particularly for vulnerable transportation populations.
Asaf Ferber is Associate Professor in Mathematics at University of California, Irvine, School of Physical Sciences. His research spans discrete mathematics including combinatorial games, random graphs, extremal hypergraph theory, and quantum computation. Research explores Hamiltonian cycles in random graphs, structural properties of pseudorandom graphs, and quantum algorithms for combinatorial problems. Recent work develops quantum approaches to graph learning and sparse recovery in random matrices. Awards: NSF CAREER Award Sloan Fellowship Distinguished Early Career Faculty Award for Research Air Force Research Grant NSF-BSF Grant Organizes conferences including SoCalDM Symposium and Desert Discrete Math Workshop, mentoring graduate students through UCI's Probability and Combinatorics Seminar.
University of California, Los AngelesUnited States
Ali Mousavi is Assistant Professor of Iranian Archaeology in UCLA’s Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures and a core faculty member of the Cotsen Institute of Archaeology. A Berkeley PhD and former fellow of the Smithsonian, Maison de l’Orient and Global Heritage Fund, he has directed excavations and UNESCO World-Heritage projects at Pasargadae, Bam, Susa, Sultaniyeh and Turang Tepe and authored prize-winning volumes Ancient Iran from the Air and Persepolis: Discovery and Afterlife of a World Wonder . Education PhD, Near Eastern Studies (Archaeology), University of California, Berkeley (2005) MA, Archaeology, History and Languages of Old World Civilizations, Université Lyon II, France (1997) BA, Archaeology and Art History of Europe and the East Mediterranean, Université Lyon II, France (1996) Research interests span the archaeology and art history of Iran from the Neolithic to the early-20th century, with particular focus on Achaemenid and Sasanian monumental architecture, ancient irrigation (qanats), landscape archaeology, digital heritage, and the modern historiography of Iranian archaeology. His field projects integrate remote sensing, epigraphy, GIS and conservation science to investigate imperial capitals, rock-cut monuments and water-management systems across the Iranian plateau. Across more than 30 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, Mousavi has re-examined dating criteria for Achaemenid stone monuments, analysed royal inscriptions as visual displays, traced medieval Persian pilgrims’ graffiti at ancient sites, and produced synthetic archaeological surveys of the Sasanian empire and the Central Alborz Iron-Age cultures. The corpus reflects a sustained engagement with primary field data, archival research and critical historiography of 19th- and 20th-century excavations. Selected honours Ehsan Yarshater Book Award (2014) Iranian Ministry of Culture World Book Award (2014) Leon Levy – Shelby White publication grant (2008) UNESCO award for World-Heritage nomination files (2003) Iran Heritage Foundation field-work award (2003) Guitty Azarpay Fellowship, UC Berkeley (2000-2003) IFRI Fellowship, Paris (1998) At UCLA he offers undergraduate courses “Archaeology of Iran” and “Ancient Cities of Iran (4000 BC-AD 1900)” and mentors graduate researchers in the Cotsen Institute. His grants and fellowships from NSF-equivalent European and American agencies underwrite both field seasons and publication of critical archaeological corpora, while his service on Iranian, UNESCO and international heritage boards continues to link scholarly output with heritage-management policy.
Professor Wolfgang Wüster is a Professor in Zoology (Molecular Ecology) at Bangor University's School of Environmental and Natural Sciences. His research focuses on evolutionary biology, snake systematics, and venom toxicology, using snakes as model systems. He teaches courses in zoology and herpetology, including Arizona fieldwork and advanced herpetology modules. Education: PhD in Systematics of Asian cobras from the University of Aberdeen (1990). His research interests include the evolution of venom composition, species delimitation in snake complexes, warning signals, biogeography, and conservation genomics. He supervises postgraduate students in topics like European viper conservation and snake systematics. Recent publications highlight his work on snake venoms, taxonomy, and the impacts of climate change on reptile species. He collaborates globally, contributing to antivenom efficacy studies and venom evolution research. Professor Wüster has been involved in projects such as genomic studies of adders and the phylogeography of vipers. His work bridges molecular ecology with conservation, emphasizing practical applications in biodiversity preservation.
Dr. Richard Fair is the Lord-Chandran Distinguished Professor of Engineering at Duke University, with a career spanning semiconductor physics, digital microfluidics, and lab-on-a-chip systems. His research group collaborates with faculty across Duke, Harvard, and Stanford in bioengineering, genomics, and environmental science to develop applications-driven microfluidic platforms. Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Duke University (1969) B.S.E.E., Duke University (1964) M.S.E.E., Pennsylvania State University (1966) Research interests focus on electrowetting-based microfluidics for biosensing, diagnostics, and synthetic biology applications. Key innovations include adaptive droplet routing , magnetic bead manipulation , and integrated optical sensors for real-time analyte detection in environmental and medical contexts. Recent publications emphasize deep reinforcement learning for biochip automation, fluorescent nucleosome detection , and inorganic ion analysis in aerosols. Collaborations with institutions like Advanced Liquid Logic and NSF-funded projects highlight his interdisciplinary approach. IEEE Third Millennium Medal (2000) Solid State Science and Technology Award (Electrochemical Society, 2003) Gordon E. Moore Medal (2009) Fellow, IEEE and Electrochemical Society Grants include NSF awards with Nan Jokerst and Krish Chakrabarty for adaptive lab-on-a-chip optical control, DARPA funding for genomic engineering platforms, and collaborations with the Desert Research Institute on airborne particle sensing. His lab develops scalable solutions for environmental monitoring, clinical diagnostics, and synthetic biology applications.
Joel S. Hayworth is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Auburn University's College of Engineering. His research focuses on environmental and ecosystem restoration, particularly in estuarine, terrestrial, and freshwater systems. He leads the Estuarine Environments Research Program (EERP), which investigates the fate of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), PFAS, and oil spill residues in coastal environments. Dr. Hayworth's educational background includes a PhD in Civil Engineering (Hydrology/Hydraulics) from Auburn University, an MS in Hydrology from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas via the Desert Research Institute, and a BS in Geophysics from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He previously worked at the Tennessee Valley Authority Engineering Laboratory and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, and founded Hayworth Engineering Science in 1999 before returning to academia in 2010. His research interests span environmental engineering, hydrology, hydraulics, estuarine science, pollutant fate and transport, and chemical fingerprinting. He has developed advanced analytical methods for detecting EDCs and PFAS in water, sediment, and biota. His work integrates field studies, laboratory experiments, and environmental modeling to understand complex hydrologic, geologic, chemical, and biological processes in human-impacted ecosystems. The 15 most recent articles highlight a strong trend in environmental contaminant analysis, particularly focusing on PFAS, oil spill residues, and endocrine disruptors. His research combines analytical chemistry with environmental modeling and field monitoring, often in collaboration with interdisciplinary teams. Key themes include the development of UHPLC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS methods, fate and transport modeling of pollutants, and ecological risk assessment in estuarine systems. Dr. Hayworth's scientific contributions are supported by funding from agencies such as the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (RESTORE Council). His work has led to significant publications in journals like Science of the Total Environment , Marine Pollution Bulletin , and Water . He actively mentors students and collaborates with researchers like T.P. Clement, G.F. John, and V. Mulabagal. His projects, such as the restoration assessment of Cotton Bayou and Terry Cove, demonstrate applied science for environmental problem-solving. He has developed state-of-the-art analytical laboratories and partnered with coastal communities for long-term monitoring. His laboratory, the Estuarine Environments Research Program (EERP), conducts multi-year studies on endocrine disruptors in estuaries, develops innovative sampling and analysis methods, and trains the next generation of environmental engineers and scientists. The team works across disciplines to address complex environmental challenges in the Gulf Coast region.
Oswald J. Schmitz is the Oastler Professor of Population and Community Ecology at the Yale University School of the Environment. His research bridges biodiversity and ecosystem services, focusing on species interactions, climate change impacts, and conservation strategies. He employs field experiments and mathematical models to study predator-herbivore-plant dynamics, nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration. Education: B.Sc., M.Sc., University of Guelph Ph.D., University of Michigan Research areas include: Trophic rewilding for climate solutions Human-wildlife conflict dynamics Meta-ecosystem nutrient flows Animal-driven carbon cycle modifications Context-dependent conservation strategies His 2024 Bormann Prize-winning work on calving impacts in nutrient cycles and other recent publications highlight innovative ecosystem science. Schmitz mentors students like Kristy Ferraro and collaborates with alumni such as Rob Buchkowski and Julia Monk. He teaches three conservation-focused courses with an emphasis on quantitative skills and real-world applications.
Eric J. Gangloff is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Ohio Wesleyan University (OWU). His research focuses on understanding how organisms adapt to environmental changes, particularly in reptiles and amphibians, using integrative approaches combining field studies, lab experiments, and molecular techniques. He holds a B.A. from Cornell University, an M.A. from the University of Denver, and a Ph.D. from Iowa State University. Dr. Gangloff leads a lab investigating physiological and ecological adaptations in species such as the common wall lizard, garter snakes, and red-backed salamanders. Notably, his work on Ohio’s invasive wall lizards has been funded by the NSF, exploring their evolutionary success in urban environments. Collaborations span institutions worldwide, including France, Canada, and Australia. His recent studies examine how temperature, oxygen availability, and urbanization influence lizard physiology, behavior, and survival. Key themes include thermal biology, ecological traps, and resilience to pollutants like lead. The lab actively involves undergraduate students in field and lab research, emphasizing hands-on learning. Gangloff’s lab website (https://glare-owu.wixsite.com/glare) showcases ongoing projects and publications. His work bridges basic science and applied conservation, addressing global challenges in biodiversity and climate change.
Dr. David Jordan is a Senior Lecturer in Defence Studies at King's College London, based at the Defence Academy of the UK. He serves as Co-Director of the Freeman Air and Space Institute and holds roles such as Academic Director (Air) for the Advanced Command & Staff Course. His research focuses on air and space power, military history, and strategic studies, with notable works including Understanding Modern Warfare . He has contributed to radio/TV commentary on air power and defence matters and is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society, Royal Historical Society, and Royal Society of Arts. Education: Doctorate in relevant field (not explicitly stated). Affiliations: RAF Centre for Air & Space Power Studies (RAFCASPS) Chief of the Air Staff’s Air Power Workshop His teaching includes modules on air power theory, the Falklands War, and Royal Air Force history. He supervises PhD students researching topics like space power theory, air power doctrine, and British military history since 1914. Recent research highlights include analyses of air power in the Falklands Conflict, RAF maritime operations, and space strategy. He has authored over 30 publications, including peer-reviewed articles on historical battles and contemporary military operations. Grants and projects involve collaboration with institutions like the Freeman Air and Space Institute, focusing on independent research into air and space power issues. His work often intersects with policy analysis, such as NATO operations and defense reviews.
Helmholtz Centre for Environmental ResearchGermany
Dr. Jonathan Lenoir is a CNRS Researcher at the Ecology and Dynamics of Anthropized Systems (EDYSAN) laboratory, University of Picardie Jules Verne , France. His work bridges Ecology and Biostatistics , focusing on ecological dynamics under spatial and temporal global changes, particularly biotic responses to climate change. His research spans broad-scale biodiversity patterns, species distribution modeling, and microclimate ecology, with special attention to forest systems. Dr. Lenoir leads and contributes to multiple research projects including MaCCMic (Impact of forest Management and Climate Change on understory Microclimate) and IMPRINT (Impacts of Microclimatic Processes on forest Biodiversity redistribution under macroclimaTe warming). These projects utilize advanced technologies like LiDAR and microclimate sensors to model understory temperature dynamics and predict biodiversity responses to climate change. His recent publications analyze microclimate buffering in forests ( 2024 ), species thermophilization ( 2024 ), and the application of deep learning to habitat identification ( 2024 ). His work also explores interdisciplinary connections like eco-oncology , comparing invasion dynamics in ecology and medicine. Dr. Lenoir actively mentors researchers and supervises fieldwork campaigns, emphasizing rigorous data collection ( 180 monitoring plots across French forests ) and advanced statistical analyses in R . He collaborates with European institutions and participates in large-scale initiatives like ReSurveyEurope , a database of resurveyed vegetation plots.
Rebecca Diamond is the Class of 1988 Professor of Economics at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, a Senior Fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR), and holds a courtesy appointment in the Economics Department. Her research focuses on urban economics, housing policy, economic inequality, and labor markets. Key areas include analyzing rent control effects, gig economy dynamics, nutritional disparities, and spatial sorting of workers by skill. She advises doctoral students on topics like urban economics and public policy. Her work has been published in top journals such as the American Economic Review, Quarterly Journal of Economics, and Review of Economic Studies. Teaching responsibilities include courses on applied econometrics, public economics, and social insurance. She has been involved in doctoral training through practicums and independent studies. Her research has influenced policy debates on housing affordability, racial disparities in housing returns, and the impacts of high-skilled immigration on innovation. Positions: Professor of Economics (GSB), SIEPR Senior Fellow, Courtesy Professor (Economics) Key Research Themes: Urban policy, labor market inequality, gig economy, food deserts, rent control
