Find Academic Supervisors

Erica L. BelmontView profile

Associate Professor

• Combustion
• Biomass Energy
• Renewable Energy
• +3 more

Erica L. Belmont is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wyoming, leading the Belmont Energy Research Group (BERG). Her work focuses on experimental combustion science, renewable energy conversion, and sustainable materials development within the university's Carnegie R1 research framework. Her academic credentials include: B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Tufts University M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin Dr. Belmont's research integrates three interconnected domains: low-temperature combustion chemistry (particularly cool flames for advanced engine applications), biomass energy systems (including co-combustion of beetle-kill wood with coal), and biochar valorization (for carbon sequestration and materials production). Her experimental approach combines species/temperature measurements with numerical modeling to address energy efficiency and environmental sustainability challenges. Recent publications demonstrate consistent innovation in combustion diagnostics and biomass thermochemical conversion, with increasing emphasis on wildfire-derived carbon analysis and sustainable material synthesis. The work bridges fundamental chemical kinetics with practical energy applications, particularly in Western U.S. contexts affected by bark beetle infestations. She mentors a robust cohort of graduate researchers, with 21 advised students (11 Ph.D., 10 M.S.) contributing to BERG's mission. Her group secures research support through university and external partnerships focused on clean energy transitions. BELMONT ENERGY RESEARCH GROUP (BERG) operates specialized facilities for cool flame stabilization, biomass pyrolysis/gasification, and biochar characterization. Current projects include wildfire carbon quantification in Medicine Bow National Forest and development of biomass-derived battery components, reflecting Wyoming's energy landscape and ecological challenges.

• Fluid Dynamics
• Computational Fluid Dynamics
• Hypersonic Flows
• +5 more

Giuseppe Pascazio serves as a Full Professor in the Department of Mechanics, Mathematics & Management at the Polytechnic University of Bari, Italy. His research spans computational fluid dynamics with dual focus on aerospace applications and biomedical engineering, particularly in hypersonic flow phenomena and microwave ablation technologies for cancer therapy. His primary research interests include fluid dynamics, computational methods for high-enthalpy flows, thermochemical non-equilibrium modeling, turbulent boundary layer analysis, and biomedical device optimization. Pascazio develops advanced numerical techniques including high-order schemes, state-to-state kinetics implementations, and GPU-accelerated solvers to address complex flow physics in atmospheric entry and medical applications. His work bridges fundamental gas dynamics with practical engineering solutions for spacecraft thermal protection and minimally invasive cancer treatments. Analysis of his recent publications (2021-2025) reveals three dominant research thrusts: (1) High-fidelity simulation of hypersonic flows with detailed chemistry using state-to-state kinetics, (2) Development of robust numerical methods for shock-capturing in thermochemically non-equilibrium flows, and (3) Biomedical applications focusing on microwave ablation probe design and microcapsule transport in vascular systems. His aerospace work emphasizes atmospheric reentry physics while biomedical research targets cancer therapy optimization. Pascazio has participated in significant research projects including "PrInCE" (Innovative Processes for Energy Conversion) and "INNOVHEAD" (Advanced technologies for reduction of polluting emissions in Heavy Duty engines). His collaborative work involves industrial partnerships in aerospace and medical device sectors, though specific grant details beyond project names aren't provided. He maintains active research output with over 50 publications demonstrating consistent contributions to high-speed aerodynamics and biomedical fluid dynamics.

• Soft-Active Matter
• Bacterial Biofilms
• Microbial Rheology
• +5 more

Dr. Saikat Jana is a Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the School of Engineering, Ulster University, Belfast. He holds a PhD in Engineering Mechanics from Virginia Tech (2013), an MSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida (2008), and a Bachelors in Technology from National Institute of Technology Durgapur (2007). His academic career includes postdoctoral roles at the University of Glasgow, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Skoltech Initiative), Newcastle University, and the University of Leeds. PhD: Engineering Mechanics, Virginia Tech (2013) MSc: Mechanical Engineering, University of Florida (2008) BSc: Technology, National Institute of Technology Durgapur (2007) His research focuses on soft-active matter, particularly microbial behavior in bacterial biofilms, using advanced techniques such as microscopy, microfluidics, and rheology. He investigates length-scale transitions from single cells to biofilm collectives, aiming to control microbial interactions for human health and environmental solutions. Current projects include Pathogen Transport and Distribution (Royal Society, 2025-2027), Nanoparticle Transport in Cystic Fibrosis Biofilms (Department for the Economy, 2024), and Ultrafast Bacteria Detection with Acoustics (2023-2024). Key publication trends highlight his expertise in Biofilm Rheology , Marine Biofouling Prevention , and Microswimmer Dynamics . His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in health and environmental sustainability. Projects and grants include: Pathogen Transport and Distribution (Royal Society, 2025-2027) Transport of nanoparticles and nano swimmers in cystic fibrosis biofilms (Department for the Economy, 2024) Ultrafast detection of foodborne bacteria with acoustics (2023-2024)

Edmund SpencerView profile

Associate Professor

• Space Plasma Physics
• Space Weather
• Radio Frequency Instrumentation
• +3 more

Dr. Edmund Spencer is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of South Alabama , with research focused on space plasma physics and space weather . He designs advanced instruments for space science, develops theoretical frameworks for plasma characterization, and applies stochastic optimization algorithms to complex systems. Ph.D. Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Texas at Austin M.S. Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Texas at Austin B.S. Electrical and Electronics Engineering, University of Leicester, UK His work bridges space instrumentation with nonlinear magnetospheric dynamics , particularly in geomagnetic substorms and solar wind-earth magnetosphere interactions . Current projects include onboard space weather modules for satellites and advanced antenna systems for CubeSats . Recent research trends from his 15 most recent publications (2019-2025) include: Development of time-domain impedance probes for ionospheric electron density measurements Applications of machine learning in substorm prediction Hybrid physics-black-box modeling for Dst index forecasting Advanced antenna designs for small satellites 3D Particle-in-Cell simulations for RF instruments Collisional effects in plasma probe measurements Scientific contributions include: NSF CAREER Award (2013) for RF impedance probe development Key role in NASA's USIP CubeSat missions (e.g., JAGSAT I) Leveraging WINDMI model for substorm dynamics analysis He teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in electromagnetics and stochastic processes , contributing to the department's space science integration in engineering education.

• Metallic Materials Design
• Advanced Characterization Techniques
• Hydrogen Embrittlement and Corrosion
• +6 more

Dr. Wenjun Lu is an Associate Professor and Principal Investigator at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), with a focus on metallic materials design, advanced characterization, and mechanical property control. She completed her Ph.D. and B.Sc. at Imperial College London and served as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Steel Research under Dierk Raabe and Gerhard Dehm. Her research areas include: Metallic Materials Design and Additive Manufacturing Hydrogen Embrittlement and Corrosion Grain Boundary Engineering and Phase Transformation In-situ TEM and Spherical Aberration-Corrected STEM Key publication trends: Focus on lightweight steels, high-entropy alloys, and additive manufacturing Advanced characterization techniques (TEM/3D APT/Cryo-FIB) Mechanical behavior optimization through nanostructures Scientific Awards: Outstanding Young Scientist Award (2021) Top 2% Scientists in the World (2021) Outstanding Reviewer for Journal of Alloys and Compounds (2018) Research Leadership: National Natural Science Foundation of China (52371110) Ministry of Science and Technology Project (2022YFB4600700) Guangdong Provincial Fund (20231515011510)

Hong Je ChoView profile

Assistant Professor

• Sustainable Chemical Processes
• Heterogeneous Catalysis
• Adsorption
• +7 more

Hong Je Cho is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Oklahoma State University since August 2022. His research focuses on nano-structured materials for sustainable energy and environmental remediation , with emphasis on heterogeneous catalysis , adsorption , and reaction engineering . Ph.D., Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst (2017) Postdoctorate, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware (2021) M.S. & B.E. in Chemical Engineering from Seoul National University and Ajou University (2004 & 2002) His group develops zeolites , metal oxides , and carbon-based catalysts to convert renewable and fossil resources into valuable chemicals. Recent work explores biofuel production , PFAS removal , and catalyst regeneration . Articles reveal trends in tandem catalysis , pore architecture , and solvent engineering for selective pathways. USDA-NIFA Sun Grant (2024) for biofuels Invited speaker at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (2024) He mentors undergraduate researchers (e.g., Adam Meringolo, Macey Fletcher) and teaches courses like Advanced Reaction Engineering and Chemical Engineering Lab . The group's efforts align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for Clean Energy and Sustainable Cities .

Chiara PetrioliView profile

Professor

• Wireless Networking
• Underwater Sensor Networks
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• +3 more

Chiara Petrioli is Full Professor at Sapienza University of Rome's Department of Computer, Control and Management Engineering and Deputy Rector for scouting, fundraising, and business incubation. She founded the spinoff WSENSE S.r.l. and coordinated the university's Computer Science Ph.D. program. Her research pioneers the Internet of Underwater Things, leading to breakthrough technologies featured in international media and the NT100 list. Her research interests center on wireless, embedded, IoT, and cyber-physical systems, with a focus on underwater networking. She designs and optimizes communication protocols, security mechanisms, and energy-efficient architectures for underwater sensor networks, enabling applications in environmental monitoring, archaeology, and deep-sea exploration. Recent publications highlight trends in underwater acoustic communications (e.g., dual-channel protocols, S2C modulation), security (authentication, key exchange), and energy efficiency (wake-up radio, UAV-assisted data collection). Applications span dissolved oxygen monitoring, submerged heritage preservation, and sustainable deep-sea mining impact assessment. Her scientific awards include: IEEE Fellow 2021 Fulbright Scholar Inspiring Fifty 2018 N2Women 2019 Star in Computer Networking and Communications Gamma Donna Women Startup Award 2022 Top 2% World Scientist by Stanford Repubblica D 100 Women to Change the World 2021 As principal investigator, she has led over twenty national and international projects, including EC projects GENESI and SUNRISE, and EASME projects ArcheoSub and Seastar. She founded WSENSE S.r.l., a spinoff that translates research into innovative technologies, resulting in international patents and features in BBC, RAI, Wired, and National Geographic. She actively contributes to the academic community as chair of IEEE SECON steering committee, associate editor of ACM/IEEE Transactions on Networking, and through leadership roles in ACM SIGMOBILE and IEEE Transactions on Mobile Computing.

Sophie RapagnaView profile

Researcher

• knee osteoarthritis
• microCT imaging
• bone microarchitecture
• +2 more

Sophie Rapagna is a Casual Academic and Micro-CT Facility Manager at the College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University . Her research focuses on knee osteoarthritis , microCT imaging , and bone microarchitecture with applications in implant biomechanics and digital volume correlation (DVC) . Active in Flinders Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology Full Member of the Medical Device Research Institute PhD candidate in biomechanics since 2017 Her publications (17 total) span topics like: Micro-CT-based mechanical analysis of implants Porosity in 3D-printed titanium components Failure mechanisms in dissimilar welds Bone-cartilage interactions in osteoarthritis Time-elapsed imaging of implant degradation High-resolution imaging for biomechanical strain mapping She collaborates with researchers such as Dr. Egon Perilli and Michael Taylor on projects involving digital volume correlation and additive manufacturing .

• Environmental science
• Drones
• Temperate mangroves
• +6 more

Dr Debra Stokes is a Lecturer at the Faculty of Science and Engineering , Southern Cross University , specializing in coastal environmental science with a focus on mangroves , sea turtles , and drone technology . Her work bridges geomorphology , ecological monitoring , and human-environment interactions . PhD in Environmental Sciences, University of Waikato (2010) BA (Hons) in Environmental Sciences, La Trobe University (2002) Her research integrates field studies and remote sensing to analyze mangrove dynamics, coastal sedimentation, and marine turtle conservation. Articles reveal a decadal focus on mangrove removal impacts (2005–2025), with recent work on seawater intrusion indicators and hybrid living shorelines , reflecting interdisciplinary interests in coastal resilience , blue carbon , and ecosystem restoration . Outstanding Teaching Award (2024), Southern Cross University Teaching areas include hydrology , coastal geomorphology , and protected area management . Email: debra.stokes@scu.edu.au

• Combustion
• Microscale Systems
• Laser Diagnostics
• +4 more

Christopher Cadou is a Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Maryland. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and B.A. in History from Cornell University, and M.S. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from UCLA. His research focuses on combustion at micro and conventional scales, laser diagnostics, compact power systems, and fuel cells. He has led interdisciplinary projects in micro-gas turbine engines, microfluidics, and energy innovation. Professional affiliations include the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), and The Combustion Institute. He has reviewed for journals like Combustion and Flame, and government agencies such as the National Science Foundation. His work includes pioneering infrared diagnostics for micro-combustors and developing analytical models for heat transfer in mini/microchannels. He has organized conferences including the 2009 AIAA Joint Propulsion Conference. His contributions span technical reports on microturbomachinery and scramjet inlet flows, and collaborations with industry through initiatives like the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute.

Li GeView profile

Professor

• Optics
• Photonics
• Non-Hermitian Physics
• +6 more

Li Ge is a Professor at the College of Staten Island (CUNY) with current research focusing on nonlinear and non-Hermitian phenomena in optics and photonics. His work spans topological photonics, PT-symmetric systems, and quantum chaos in optical microcavities, as evidenced by publications in leading journals like Science , Nature Photonics , and Physical Review Letters . Key contributions include the co-discovery of Coherent Perfect Absorbers and theoretical frameworks for non-Hermitian photonic lattices. Education: PhD in Physics (Yale University, 2010), BS in Physics (Peking University) His research explores: Non-Hermitian photonics and exceptional point dynamics PT-symmetric laser arrays and symmetry breaking Quantum chaos in optical microcavities Directional emission and mode control in microlasers High-dimensional quantum communication via spin-orbit microlasers Recent publications highlight advancements in Brillouin super-cooling, field-programmable photonic nonlinearity, and topological valley Hall polariton condensation. Research trends show increasing focus on integrated photonic devices and non-Hermitian symmetry applications. Scientific Honors: NSF CAREER Award (2019) Dolphin Award for Outstanding Scholarly Achievements (2023) Optica Fellow (2023) He serves on editorial boards for Physical Review B and previously for PNAS and Photonics Research , and has reviewed for over 50 journals and funding agencies globally.

Timothy H. GfroererView profile

Professor

• Semiconductor Physics
• Optoelectronics
• Sustainable Energy Technology
• +3 more

Timothy H. Gfroerer is a Professor of Physics at Davidson College , where he has been since 1999. His research focuses on semiconductor spectroscopy and defect analysis in optoelectronic devices for solar energy and LED applications. He has mentored over 25 undergraduate researchers who co-authored publications with him. Ph.D. in Physics from Dartmouth College (1996) M.S. in Electrical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology (1991) B.S. in Physics from University of the South (1989) His research interests include defect state characterization in semiconductors, carrier diffusion dynamics, and sustainable energy technology . He employs techniques like photoluminescence imaging, thermal diffusivity analysis, and transient capacitance spectroscopy. His work has been funded by the American Chemical Society – Petroleum Research Fund and Research Corporation . The scientific awards he has received include the Duke Energy Distinguished Visiting Faculty Award (2011-2012). His publications demonstrate expertise in defect-related recombination , quantum dot relaxation , and device efficiency optimization . He has also contributed significantly to physics pedagogy through lab development and student-centered teaching methods.

• Geology
• Mineralogy
• Sustainable Development
• +5 more

Olav Eklund is a Professor at Åbo Akademi University's Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering , Department of Geology and Mineralogy Technologies. His work focuses on geological processes in the Fennoscandian Shield, particularly magmatism, petrology, and mineral resource exploration. Research Areas : Magmatism, Migmatite Formation, Leucogranite Petrology, Graphite Ore Exploration, Post-orogenic Tectonics, Geochronology Projects : FennoFlakes (2015-2020) - Identification of flake-graphite ores and graphene applications Collaborations : Active in international geological research networks, with recent collaborations on Paleoproterozoic magmatism in Finland His research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in sustainable mineral resource utilization. Publications emphasize geochemical analysis, zircon dating, and metamorphic processes in Finland's bedrock formations.

• Plant Genetic Resources
• Plant Genetics
• Agricultural Biodiversity Conservation
• +3 more

Dr. Gaetano Laghetti is a Senior Researcher at the Institute of Biosciences and BioResources (IBBR) of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR) in Bari. He has served as the curator of the CNR's Gene Bank in Bari since 2011 and as the Italian representative in the 'Solanaceae' working group since 2012. Since October 2013, he has been deputy director of IBBR and heads the CNR work order on 'Biodiversity for the sustainability of Mediterranean agricultural systems' since 2011. Dr. Laghetti's educational background includes: 1984: Degree in Agricultural Science (cum laude) from the University of Bari, Faculty of Agriculture 1986: Passed State Examination for qualification to practice as an agronomist 1987: Awarded international scholarship by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) His research focuses on the safeguarding of plant genetic resources , with particular emphasis on Mediterranean agricultural systems. Dr. Laghetti has conducted approximately 50 exploration and collecting missions across Italy and internationally, gathering over 5,000 plant accessions. His work encompasses germplasm characterization using agronomical, morphological and biochemical traits, statistical analysis of characterization data, and taxonomic studies to identify crop origins and wild ancestors. He has significant expertise in obtaining EU quality marks for local products and holds two plant patents. Dr. Laghetti's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on agrobiodiversity conservation , with particular attention to traditional Italian crop varieties, ethnobotanical knowledge, and the documentation of crop wild relatives. His research spans plant systematics, germplasm characterization, and the application of statistical methods to genetic resource data. He has made significant contributions to documenting ancient cereal varieties in Southern Italy and studying the biogeography of edible halophytes in the Apulia region. As an active member of the scientific community, Dr. Laghetti serves on the Editorial Board of the International Journal Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution and is a peer reviewer for multiple international journals in botany and biodiversity. He has coordinated four books and authored approximately 200 scientific papers. Dr. Laghetti has supervised academic work including a Research Doctorate, a Degree Thesis, and six scholarship recipients. He has served as the scientific responsible for six internal CNR projects and seven external projects, while collaborating on 21 additional research initiatives. His field work includes establishing and managing an experimental field for scientific trials since 2003. At the institutional level, Dr. Laghetti contributes to biodiversity conservation through his leadership roles at the CNR Gene Bank in Bari and his representation of Italy in international working groups focused on plant genetic resources.

Charlotta TurnerView profile

Professor

• Analytical Chemistry
• Green Chemistry
• Sustainable Development
• +4 more

Charlotta Turner is a Professor at the Centre for Analysis and Synthesis , Lund University , and serves as Vice Dean of the Faculty of Science . Her research focuses on analytical chemistry for sustainable development , particularly the use of green solvents such as supercritical carbon dioxide and subcritical water in extraction and separation methods. UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) contributor Manager of High Pressure Fluid Facility and Mass Spectrometry Infrastructure Principal Investigator (PI) for projects like Miljövänlig superkritisk process för växtoljor and Quantitative fingerprinting of chemical contaminants in pollinating insects Her work addresses sustainable extraction of valuable substances from food, forest, agricultural, and marine industries . Recent publications highlight advancements in phlorotannin characterization , berry bioactives , and lignin molecular weight analysis . She has supervised 12 research projects and leads teams in KILU/CAS infrastructure . Turner has received multiple awards, including the Svante Arrhenius Award (2017) and Herbert Dutton Award (2015) .