Dr. Hao Lou is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy. His research integrates computational modeling and experimental approaches to advance drug formulation design, with emphasis on subcutaneous delivery systems for biologics and oral formulations. Research focuses on: Computational pharmaceutics using machine learning and molecular dynamics Subcutaneous delivery of monoclonal antibodies and protein therapeutics In vitro emulation of subcutaneous absorption (ESCAR system) Formulation optimization for cyclic peptides and biologics Protein stabilization and drying techniques Recent publications demonstrate novel applications of molecular dynamics simulations in predicting peptide properties, optimizing high-concentration protein formulations, and developing biorelevant dissolution methods. Work appears in pharmaceutical sciences journals covering formulation design and computational modeling. Developed innovative platforms including an Emulator of Subcutaneous Absorption and Release (ESCAR) and protein-hyaluronic acid precipitation techniques. Contributes to advancing dry powder processing for inhaled formulations.
Simon Mochrie is a Professor of Physics and Applied Physics at Yale University, affiliated with the Department of Physics within the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on experimental biophysics and condensed matter physics, with emphasis on chromatin dynamics, nuclear mechanics, and super-resolution microscopy. He holds a Ph.D. from MIT (1985) and has pioneered techniques such as optical tweezers and STED microscopy to study biological systems like the ubiquitin-proteasome system in yeast. Current projects include single-molecule measurements on nucleosomes and developing novel imaging methods like LIVE-PAINT for live-cell super-resolution imaging. Educations: Ph.D., Physics, MIT (1985) Research interests center on understanding how chromatin organization influences nuclear mechanics, with studies on heterochromatin condensation, cohesin-driven loop extrusion, and chromatin-envelope interactions. His lab develops advanced microscopy techniques to visualize protein dynamics and subnuclear structures in real time. Recent work explores diffusive states of membrane proteins and the role of phase separation in heterochromatin mechanics. His articles demonstrate a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, combining biophysical experimentation with computational modeling to elucidate fundamental mechanisms in cell biology and soft matter physics. Notable themes include the interplay between chromatin structure and nuclear stiffness, loop extrusion dynamics, and quantitative analysis of intrachromosomal contacts. Teaching contributions include developing introductory physics courses tailored for life sciences students, emphasizing applications in biology and medicine. He actively participates in STEM education initiatives, including collaborative research networks for graduate students in physical biology. The Mochrie Lab also emphasizes instrumentation innovation, such as building fast-scanning STED microscopes and reversible peptide-based imaging systems.
Stephen Bradforth is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Southern California and Senior Advisor to the Dean for Research Strategy and Development in the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences . He earned his PhD in Physical Chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley (1992) and conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Chicago . B.A., Natural Sciences, Cambridge University (1987) Ph.D., Physical Chemistry, UC Berkeley (1992) Postdoctoral Associate, University of Chicago (1993–1996) His research focuses on ultrafast laser spectroscopy to study chemical reactions in complex environments like aqueous systems and molecular materials . Key projects include: Solar Energy Conversion : Investigating photosensitizers based on earth-abundant elements (Cu, Zn, Zr) and organic photovoltaics with BODIPY cores. DNA Photodamage : Mechanisms of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) formation under UV exposure, emphasizing base-stacking effects. Electronic Structure in Ethereal Solvents : Studying solvated electrons in liquid ammonia and their role in carbanion stabilization. His 15 most recent articles (2004–2024) highlight advancements in photoelectron spectroscopy , singlet fission for solar cells, and DNA damage pathways . Collaborations span medicine, physics, and engineering . Scientific Awards include the ACS Physical Chemistry Division Senior Experimental Award (2023) , STAR Awardee (2019) , Cottrell Scholar , and Fellow of APS and AAAS . He has received both Junior (2001) and Senior Raubenheimer Awards (2022) at USC. Advising has been a cornerstone, with 23 PhD students graduated and 4 current candidates. His 15 most recent publications (2012–2024) emphasize ultrafast dynamics , charge transfer mechanisms , and environmental photochemistry . Labs & Teams : The Bradforth Group operates advanced time-resolved photoelectron spectrometers , liquid microjet systems , and high-repetition-rate laser facilities . Current projects include metallic water solutions (Nature 2021), DNA photophysics (FASEB J 2011), and carbanion electronic structure in ammonia.
Chenxu Li is an active researcher in Biomedical Engineering, focusing on biomedical imaging and blood flow monitoring technologies. Their work integrates machine learning with optical sensing systems using SPAD cameras for improved temporal resolution in deep tissue analysis. Research output highlights include: Development of a fiber-based ultra-high speed diffuse speckle contrast analysis system for deep blood flow sensing (2025) Implementation of deep learning in two-layer DCS analytical models with SPAD arrays for cerebral blood flow monitoring (2025) Contributions align with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and technological innovation. Collaborations include Li, D. and Wu, J. on machine learning approaches for biomedical imaging.
Dr. Bastian Pfau serves as Department Head of the “Imaging and Coherent X-rays” (B2) division and Project Coordinator for “Transient Structures and Imaging with X-rays” at the Max Born Institute in Berlin, where he has conducted postdoctoral research since 2016. His work pioneers nanoscale magnetic imaging using coherent X-ray techniques, with significant contributions to ultrafast magnetization dynamics and topological spin structures. His academic foundation includes a Dr. rer. nat. (PhD) in Physics from Technical University Berlin (2013) with thesis “Imaging magnetic nanostructures using soft x-ray Fourier transform holography,” and a Diplom (MSc) in Physics from Technical University Dresden (2006) focused on “Combining photon correlation spectroscopy and fluctuation analysis for investigating diffusion dynamics.” Additional research experience spans Lund University (2014-2015), Technical University Berlin (2010-2013), and Helmholtz Center Berlin (2006-2010). Dr. Pfau’s research centers on developing and applying X-ray holography and coherent diffraction imaging to visualize magnetic nanostructures at nanometer-femtosecond scales. His group specializes in ultrafast magnetization dynamics , skyrmion imaging , and element-specific magnetic probing using soft X-rays. Key innovations include achieving 5 nm resolution magnetic imaging and demonstrating all-optical helicity-independent switching via plasmonic nanostructures, with applications in next-generation spintronic devices and magnetic storage technologies. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals dominant themes in nanoscale magnetic imaging (particularly skyrmions and topological textures), ultrafast opto-magnetic effects using extreme ultraviolet radiation, and advanced X-ray methodologies for capturing transient magnetic states. His work consistently bridges fundamental physics with practical instrumentation development, as evidenced by contributions to laser-driven plasma sources and tabletop X-ray setups. As Department Head of B2, Dr. Pfau leads a multidisciplinary team operating cutting-edge X-ray microscopy facilities at MBI. The group maintains strong collaborations with international synchrotron facilities (including BESSY II) and free-electron laser centers, focusing on developing MHz-repetition-rate pump-probe capabilities and high-resolution magnetic imaging techniques. Current projects emphasize real-time visualization of light-induced phase transitions and magnetic switching phenomena in functional materials.
Professor Kate Watkins is a Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience and Tutorial Fellow at St Anne's College, University of Oxford. Her research focuses on the neural mechanisms underlying speech and language, particularly in developmental disorders such as stuttering and developmental language disorder (DLD). She employs neuroimaging (MRI/fMRI) and brain stimulation techniques (TMS/tDCS) to investigate speech perception, production, and motor control. Key contributions include discoveries about striatal iron concentrations in stuttering and cerebellar abnormalities in DLD. Watkins trained at the Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and the Montreal Neurological Institute. She co-founded the Neurobiology of Language journal and has held academic roles since 2003. Her work bridges clinical and experimental approaches, aiming to improve understanding of communication disorders and inform therapeutic strategies. Research interests span developmental stuttering, speech motor control, bilingual language processing, and neuroimaging methodologies. She collaborates with institutions like the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging and has published extensively on language lateralization, motor cortex plasticity, and neurobiological markers of speech disorders.
Scott A. Huettel is a Professor in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at Duke University, where he also serves as Senior Associate Dean for Research in Trinity College of Arts & Sciences. He holds additional appointments as Professor of Neurobiology and Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. As a Bass Fellow, Huettel leads research in decision neuroscience and neuroeconomics, with affiliations spanning multiple Duke research centers including the Center for Brain Imaging and Analysis, Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, and Center for Cognitive Neuroscience. Huettel's research focuses on the brain mechanisms underlying economic and social decision making. His laboratory uses fMRI to probe brain function, behavioral assays to characterize individual differences, and various physiological methods including eye tracking, pharmacological manipulation, and genetics to link brain and behavior. His work has advanced new analysis methods for fMRI data, including functional connectivity analyses, pattern classification, and combinatoric multivariate approaches. His research spans applications in behavioral economics, consumer decision making, and neuroethics. Huettel's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on social decision making, risk assessment, and the neural mechanisms of economic choices. His work increasingly integrates computational approaches with traditional neuroimaging to better understand how people process information during decision making. His research has significant implications for understanding financial behavior, health decisions, and social interactions across the lifespan. Education in Neuroimaging Award from the Organization for Human Brain Mapping (2021) 2014 Innovation Award from the Social and Affective Neuroscience Society (2013) Bass Fellow for Excellence in Research and Teaching (2012) Jerry G. and Patricia Crawford Hubbard Professorship at Duke University (2012) Top 5% undergraduate instructor in Arts & Sciences at Duke (2010) Dean's Award for Excellence in Mentoring from Duke University Graduate School (2010) Huettel actively mentors students and has trained numerous postdoctoral and graduate researchers who now lead their own laboratories. He is lead author of the textbook Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (3rd edition, 2014) and teaches courses including Fundamentals of Decision Science, Decision Neuroscience, and Neuroethics. His research is supported by multiple grants from NIH and other funding agencies, focusing on mechanisms of social behavior, aging, and neuroimaging technology development. Huettel directs a productive research laboratory that integrates multiple methodologies to investigate decision processes. His team combines fMRI, eye tracking, behavioral testing, and computational modeling to examine how people make economic and social choices. The lab has made significant contributions to understanding how attention, risk, and social context influence decision making across different populations including adolescents, older adults, and clinical populations.
Dr. Gerald Wang is an Assistant Professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University with courtesy appointments in Chemical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. He leads the M5 Lab (Mechanics of Materials via Molecular and Multiscale Methods), focusing on nanoscale mechanics using computational approaches to solve civil engineering challenges related to water-energy systems, material resilience, and sustainable polymers. Education: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and Computation, MIT (2019) S.M. in Mechanical Engineering, MIT (2015) B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics & Physics, Yale University (2013) His research integrates statistical physics, fluid mechanics, and high-performance computing to investigate nanoscale structural and transport phenomena. Key areas include climate-resilient infrastructure, energy-water nexus solutions, and nanoscale thermal transport in materials. Recent work explores molecular-scale separation processes and recyclable polymer design using advanced simulation techniques. Publication trends demonstrate consistent focus on nanoscale transport mechanisms, computational method development, and interdisciplinary applications from materials science to urban systems. Articles frequently bridge molecular dynamics with macro-scale engineering problems. Awards: Scott Institute Seed Grant for clean energy research CMU Celebration of Education Award for teaching excellence Current projects include NSF-funded work on nanoscale slip phenomena and polymer upcycling collaborations. The M5 Lab develops open-source simulation tools and maintains active industry partnerships in advanced materials.
Solomon G. Diamond is an Associate Professor of Engineering at Dartmouth College's Thayer School of Engineering, serving as Co-Director of the Design Initiative at Dartmouth. He holds degrees from Dartmouth (AB 1997, BE 1998) and Harvard (SM 2001, PhD 2004). His research focuses on biomedical imaging, functional neuroimaging, and magnetic nanoparticle imaging, with emphasis on diagnostic technologies and medical device development. He has received awards including the 2023 Outstanding Service Award and the 2002 Derek Bok Teaching Award. Research projects include neurovascular coupling studies, clinical optical-electric probes, and magnetic nanoparticle imaging. He co-founded Lodestone Biomedical, a medtech company advancing nanoparticle-based biosensors. His work bridges engineering and medicine, with notable contributions to magnetic nanoparticle characterization and imaging array systems. He teaches courses like ENGS 90 (Engineering Design Methodology) and ENGS 29 (Computer-Aided Design & Kinematics). Recent work includes a 2024 study on salt concentration effects in magnetic nanoparticle biosensors with PhD candidate Gabby Moss. He holds patents for technologies like magnetic susceptibility tomography and in-bed exercise machines. His interdisciplinary collaborations span biomedical engineering, materials science, and clinical diagnostics.
You Zhou is an Affiliate Assistant Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Maryland, leading an experimental quantum materials research group. His work focuses on fundamental properties of quantum materials for next-generation information and energy technologies. Dr. Zhou's research centers on quantum phenomena in 2D semiconductors and correlated materials. His group investigates exciton physics in atomically thin heterostructures, metal-insulator transitions in correlated oxides, and emergent quantum phases like Wigner crystals. Key research areas include: Quantum-confined excitons in moiré superlattices Optical properties of 2D materials and van der Waals heterostructures Neuromorphic computing using correlated electron systems Thermal radiation engineering in quantum materials His recent publications (2023-2025) reveal strong emphasis on quantum phase transitions in 2D materials, particularly exciton physics in twisted bilayers and Wigner crystal formation. The work demonstrates sophisticated control of quantum states through electrostatic gating, optical excitation, and heterostructure engineering, with applications spanning quantum computing, optoelectronics, and energy technologies. Notable scientific awards include: 2DM Young Scientist Award (2024) DOE Early Career Award (2022) NSF CAREER award (2021) IUPAP Early Career Prize (2023) Ralph E. Powe Junior Faculty Award (2023) Dr. Zhou actively mentors graduate students including Liuxin Gu (Ann G. Wylie Dissertation Fellow). His research is supported by major grants from the Department of Energy and National Science Foundation. The group maintains strong collaborations with Harvard (Kim and Lukin groups), MIT, and national laboratories. Current openings exist for postdoctoral researchers to explore quantum materials synthesis, nano-fabrication, and optical characterization. The experimental group develops advanced techniques for probing quantum phenomena, including nanoscale thermal imaging, ultrafast optical spectroscopy, and cryogenic quantum transport measurements. Their facilities enable atomic-scale manipulation of 2D materials and correlated oxides for next-generation device applications.
Dr. Wonbong Choi is a University Distinguished Research Professor at the University of North Texas with joint appointments in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on nanomaterials, energy storage systems (particularly lithium-sulfur and zinc-ion batteries), additive manufacturing of composites, and neuromorphic computing devices. He was elected Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors in 2024 for his contributions to materials innovation. Research interests span materials synthesis, electrochemical characterization, and device integration of 2D materials like MXenes and transition metal dichalcogenides. Key areas include: Nanomaterial design for batteries and supercapacitors 3D-printed sensors and structural composites Defect engineering for neuromorphic computing His recent publications highlight consistent themes in MXene synthesis optimization, advanced battery architectures, and multifunctional composites. Article trends show increasing focus on in situ characterization, scalable manufacturing of nanomaterials, and AI-driven materials design. Awards: Fellow, National Academy of Inventors (2024) Collaborates with research groups at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and leads projects on lightweight composites and energy storage systems.
Prof. Dimitrios Karampinos is a Professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), leading the Experimental Magnetic Resonance Imaging group within the TUM School of Medicine and Health. He specializes in developing novel MRI techniques for quantitative biomarker discovery, focusing on musculoskeletal, metabolic, and oncological applications. His career includes a PhD from the University of Illinois (2008), postdoctoral research at UCSF (2009–2012), and leadership roles at TUM since 2012. Prof. Karampinos has pioneered advancements in MRI reconstruction, signal modulation, and biomarker validation for clinical translation. Educations: BSc in Mechanical Engineering (National Technical University of Athens, Greece), PhD in Biomedical Engineering (University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 2008). Research Interests: Development of MRI measurement techniques, quantitative biomarkers for disease diagnosis, and improving therapy monitoring. Key areas include musculoskeletal disease imaging, metabolic disorder assessment, and oncology applications. His work emphasizes translating research into clinical practice through innovations like accelerated imaging, artifact correction, and AI-driven analysis. Awards: ERC Starting and Proof of Concept Grants (2015, 2019), TUM Supervisory Award (2020), ISMRM Junior Fellow (2011). Grants: Multiple ERC grants for MRI method development. Labs/Teams: Leads the Experimental Magnetic Resonance Imaging group at TUM, collaborating on clinical and technical MRI advancements.
Lisa Randolph is a researcher at Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, affiliated with the Institute for Sustainable Hydrogen Economy (INW). Her work focuses on advanced diagnostics in high-energy-density physics and ultrafast material dynamics using X-ray techniques. Institute: Institute for Sustainable Hydrogen Economy (INW) Location: Brainergy Park Jülich Building / Room 0 Her research spans X-ray spectroscopy , plasma physics , and nanoscale dynamics , with emphasis on probing laser-induced phenomena in solids and plasmas. Recent publications highlight applications of X-ray free-electron lasers and Thomson scattering for structural and thermal analysis. Scientific trends in her work include ultrafast heating processes , shock compression diagnostics , and vacuum birefringence experiments . Key subfields involve solid-density plasma evolution , picosecond surface correlations , and nanometric dynamics .
Paul Evans is a Professor in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, College of Engineering. His research focuses on nanoscale materials synthesis, ultrafast dynamics, and advanced X-ray characterization techniques. PhD, Harvard University (2000) MS, Harvard University (1996) BS, Cornell University (1994) Evans investigates solid-phase epitaxy of complex oxides, strain imaging in acoustic devices, and optically driven phase transitions. His work combines experimental and computational approaches, including deep learning for diffraction data analysis. His recent publications highlight breakthroughs in nanoscale crystallization, ultrafast magnetization dynamics, and hybrid magnon-phonon systems. Awards include the Bascom Professorship and Vilas Mid-Career Award. Surface Science and Technology Bascom Professorship (2022) Vilas Associate Award (2019) Polygon Engineering Outstanding Instructor Award (2006) Evans teaches courses in materials structure, advanced X-ray methods, and thesis research. His lab enables scalable synthesis of perovskites and defect-minimized oxide heterostructures.
Jérôme Creuze is a Professor of Chemistry at Université Paris-Saclay, affiliated with the Institute of Molecular Chemistry and Materials of Orsay (ICMMO - UMR 8182) under the SP2M unit. He co-leads the Synthesis, Properties and Modeling of Materials team, focusing on thermodynamics of metallic nanoalloys , environmental effects on alloy surfaces , and metal-on-metal heteroepitaxy using atomic-scale simulations. Research Themes : Nanoalloys Thermodynamics, Surface Segregation, Heteroepitaxy, Ab Initio Modeling, Defects and Diffusion in Solids Recent Publications : 15+ studies on nanoalloy surface energy, dislocation loops, Vegard’s rule deviations, and environmental impacts on alloys. Collaborations : Partners include teams from ONERA (Châtillon), CEA Saclay, IWD-SINAP (Shanghai), and universities in Marseille, Montpellier, and Paris. Teaching : Coordinates CPGE L'Essouriau chemistry program and leads courses on thermodynamics, defects, and diffusion in crystalline solids at Master's level.
