Bridget R Rogers is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Vanderbilt University's School of Engineering. Her research focuses on surfaces, interfaces, and films of advanced materials, linking processing parameters to material properties and performance in applications like CMOS transistors, hypersonic flight composites, and harsh-environment coatings. Education: Ph.D., Chemical Engineering, Arizona State University M.S., Chemical Engineering, Arizona State University B.S., Chemical Engineering, University of Colorado Research Interests: Her work employs techniques such as UHV-CVD, spectroscopic ellipsometry, and ion beam backscattering to study thin films of alumina/zirconia for dielectrics and ultra-high-temperature ceramics (e.g., Hf(Zr)B₂/SiC) for hypersonic systems. Applications target aerospace and electronics sectors. Labs/Equipment: Utilizes specialized facilities including a UHV-CVD reactor, TEM for cross-sectional analysis, and x-ray diffraction systems.
Marc De Graef is the John and Claire Bertucci Distinguished Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). He leads the J. Earle and Mary Roberts Materials Characterization Laboratory and is affiliated with the Materials Science and Engineering Department within the College of Engineering. De Graef holds dual roles as a faculty director and researcher, specializing in advanced materials characterization techniques, particularly electron microscopy and microstructural analysis. Education: Ph.D. in Physics, Catholic University of Leuven (1989) M.S. and B.S. in Physics, University of Antwerp (1983) Research Interests: De Graef's work focuses on 3D microstructure analysis, materials informatics, magnetic materials, and advanced characterization methods like Lorentz microscopy. His research emphasizes quantitative electron microscopy techniques, including electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and their application to study complex materials systems. He has pioneered software tools for materials characterization, such as orientation mapping algorithms and dictionary-based indexing methods. Key Achievements: Recipient of the 2025 Microscopy Society of America Distinguished Scientist Award Author/co-author of over 350 publications and two textbooks: Introduction to Conventional Transmission Electron Microscopy and Structure of Materials Principal investigator on grants including a $7.5M Air Force-funded Center of Excellence in data-driven materials research Lab & Collaborations: Directs the Materials Characterization Facility at CMU, advancing capabilities in X-ray and electron microscopy. His team collaborates on projects involving additive manufacturing, magnetic domain analysis, and topological magnetic structures. Recent work includes studies on skyrmions in thin films and phase stability in novel alloys.
Professor Bill O'Neill is a Fellow in Engineering at Downing College and holds the Professor of Laser Engineering position at the University of Cambridge. He leads the Centre of Industrial Photonics and focuses on cutting-edge laser-based manufacturing technologies. BSc (Essex) MSc (Essex) MA PhD (Imperial) His research spans high-power laser applications in materials processing, including aerospace alloys, medical alloys, ceramics, and polymers. He investigates ultra-short laser-matter interactions (femtosecond pulses) for thermal-free machining and nanofabrication techniques aimed at developing personal factory systems. Key projects include electron backscattered diffraction analysis (EBSD) validation of material responses and £10M UK research council-funded innovations. Publications highlight advancements in laser microstructuring, x-ray collimation, and cold gas dynamic spray technologies. His work trends toward precision manufacturing, materials science, and photonics applications. As head of the Centre of Industrial Photonics, O'Neill's team explores nanoparticle manipulation for on-demand fabrication of complex products, envisioning a future where desktop printers create micro/nano devices.
Curt Bronkhorst is the Harvey D. Spangler Professor of Engineering and Professor of Applied Mechanics in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He received his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics (1985), M.S. (1988), and Ph.D. (1991) in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His career includes roles as Senior Scientist at Weyerhaeuser (1991–2002) and Scientist/Project Leader at Los Alamos National Laboratory (2002–2019) before joining UW-Madison. He leads the Army Research Laboratory's Center for Extreme Events in Structurally Evolving Materials and contributes to the Theoretical and Computational Mechanics of Materials Group . PhD (1991) - Massachusetts Institute of Technology MS (1988) - Massachusetts Institute of Technology BS (1985) - University of Wisconsin-Madison Bronkhorst's research focuses on theoretical and computational mechanics of materials , particularly under extreme conditions. Key themes include: Coupled thermo-mechanical deformation Finite elasticity and dislocation slip plasticity Deformation twinning and phase transformations Pore nucleation and adiabatic shear banding Brittle-to-ductile transition mechanisms Multi-scale modeling of damage evolution His 2025–2023 publications emphasize data-driven modeling , void nucleation , and machine learning integration in EBSD analysis. Recent work explores gradient nanostructured metals and low-grain polycrystal stress heterogeneity . 2019: Harvey D. Spangler Professorship 2012: DOE Defense Programs Award (Implosion Predictive Capability) 2009: DOE Outstanding Mentor Award 2007–2008: Los Alamos Distinguished Performance Awards Fellow, American Society of Mechanical Engineers Member, Phi Kappa Phi and Tau Beta Pi Honor Societies Bronkhorst serves as Associate Editor for the International Journal of Plasticity and president of Northland Partners, LLC. He is affiliated with UW-Madison's Nuclear Engineering & Engineering Physics and Materials Science & Engineering departments. No formal advisees are listed, but his computational framework has been adopted in grants like the DMREF collaborative research on grain-interface design.
Matt Thompson is a Research Fellow and Sub Dean (CoS) at the ANU College of Science and Medicine. He also serves as Internship Convener and has been actively involved in research supervision and project leadership. His primary academic affiliation is with the Australian National University, where he focuses on nuclear fusion materials and plasma physics. Thompson holds a PhD in Physics and specializes in reactor wall materials for nuclear fusion, grazing incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS), and plasma nanostructure fabrication. His research explores helium plasma interactions with materials like tungsten, investigating microstructural changes, bubble formation, and mechanical property degradation under fusion-relevant conditions. His recent publications (2015–2025) emphasize helium bubble dynamics, tungsten recrystallization kinetics, and nanostructure formation via ion irradiation. Key trends include advanced materials characterization using GISAXS and EBSD, plasma-induced surface modifications, and fusion material durability under extreme conditions. Grants/Projects : Leading the 'Effect of helium bubble formation on the recrystallization and mechanical properties of tungsten' (2019–2021) Contributing to 'Understanding helium induced nanostructure formation' (2020–2023) Co-investigator in 'HILT.RP1.010 - Hybrid Hydrogen direct and plasma reduction of iron ore' (2023–2024) Thompson collaborates extensively on fusion material research, particularly in plasma-material interactions and nanostructure evolution. He advises students on topics related to materials science and nuclear engineering.
Tresa Pollock is the ALCOA Professor of High Tech Materials in the Materials Department at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), part of the College of Engineering. Her research focuses on structural materials, high-temperature processing, ultrafast laser interactions, alloy design, and 3D characterization techniques. She holds a Ph.D. from MIT and a B.S. from Purdue University. Research Interests: Her work addresses extreme environment materials performance, thermal barrier coatings, cobalt-base superalloys, hypersonic flight materials, femtosecond laser tomography, and computational materials engineering. Recent projects include developing refractory alloys and advanced characterization methods like the TriBeam system. Awards: She is a Fellow of TMS (The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society) and received the 2023 Acta Materialia Gold Medal. Grants & Collaborations: Supported by agencies like ONR, NSF, AFOSR, and industry partners including GE, Boeing, and Rolls-Royce. Her lab includes advanced facilities at UCSB’s Microscopy and Microanalysis Facility. Labs & Teams: Leads a research group with senior scientists like Chris Torbet. Labs are located in Engineering II and Elings Hall, focusing on 3D tomography, laser-material interactions, and high-temperature alloy development.
Tatyana Konkova is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Design, Manufacturing and Engineering Management at the University of Strathclyde, Faculty of Engineering, Glasgow, UK. She is actively engaged in research, teaching, and professional leadership in the field of Materials Science and Engineering, with a focus on metallurgy and advanced manufacturing techniques. Education: Doctor of Science, Mechanisms of cryogenic plastic deformation and features of microstructure formation in technically pure copper, Institute for Metals Superplasticity Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences (awarded 2011) Master of Business Administration (MBA), Strathclyde Business School (awarded 2023) PG Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, University of Strathclyde (awarded 2021) MSc (Hons) in Materials Science and Engineering, Ufa State Aviation Technical University (awarded 2005) BSc in Engineering, Ufa State Aviation Technical University (awarded 2004) Research Interests: Her research spans Severe Plastic Deformation (SPD), cryogenic deformation, additive manufacturing, microstructure evolution, and advanced characterization using EBSD, TEM, and SEM. She focuses on materials such as titanium alloys, copper, and nickel-based superalloys, aiming to bridge fundamental science with industrial applications. Her work emphasizes grain boundary engineering, abnormal grain growth, and deformation-induced boundaries. Publication Trends: Recent publications highlight her growing interdisciplinary work combining additive manufacturing with electric machine design, as well as continued deep microstructural investigations in aerospace and microelectronic materials. Her research integrates data-driven optimization and advanced characterization to improve material performance and manufacturing efficiency. Scientific Awards and Honors: Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (FIMMM) Chartered Engineer (CEng) by the Engineering Council Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE) Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) PG Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education Advising and Grants: She has supervised undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students and serves as Principal Investigator on multiple research projects, including EPSRC-funded CDT in AI-enabled Digital High-Value Manufacturing and AFRC projects on titanium alloy forgeability. She has secured funding from national and international sources, including the Russian Foundation for Fundamental Research. Her leadership in industrial collaboration and knowledge exchange is evident through her roles in Catapult projects and industrial group supervision. Labs and Teams: She has led the Materials Characterisation Theme at AFRC and represented the center in Cross-Catapult forums on additive manufacturing. She is part of the Horizon Europe Working Group with the University of Waterloo and actively collaborates with national and international research teams.
Zoja Vukmanovic is a Lecturer in Geology/Georesources at the School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia. She holds a PhD from the University of Western Australia (2014) and conducted postdoctoral research at Curtin University (2013–2014). Her career includes a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship at the University of Cambridge (2015–2020) and industry experience as a Resource Geoscientist at CGG Limited (2020–2021). Her research focuses on igneous petrology, particularly magmatic ore deposits and fluid dynamics in crystal-rich systems. Key techniques include field observations, microstructural analysis, and mineral geochemistry. She pioneered conceptual models for magnetitite/chromitite layers in the Bushveld Complex via EBSD and geochemical studies during the EFOX project (2016). Recent publications (2020–2024) explore layered intrusions, volcanic plumbing systems, chromite mineralization, and magmatic fabrics. She leads the 'Ex-X' project on volcanic transitions (2025–2029), funded by the Natural Environment Research Council. PhD: University of Western Australia (2014) Marie Curie Fellowship: University of Cambridge (2015–2020) Her work bridges field data with cutting-edge analytical methods, contributing to understanding ore formation and magmatic processes. Awards include the prestigious Marie Curie Fellowship (2016).
Dr David Collins serves as the Mike Ashby Associate Professor in Materials Science at the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, and is a core member of the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) focused on advanced aerospace materials. His research spans superalloys , titanium alloys , and high-entropy alloys , with expertise in phase transformations , high-temperature deformation , and microstructural evolution . He pioneers advanced characterization techniques including in-situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction , electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) , and three-dimensional X-ray diffraction (3DXRD) to investigate grain-scale stress interactions and failure mechanisms under extreme conditions. Analysis of his 2023-2025 publications reveals dominant trends in additive manufacturing validation , oxidation/corrosion resistance of superalloys , and grain-resolved mechanical behavior using coupled experimental-computational approaches. His work frequently addresses Rolls-Royce-relevant challenges in jet engine materials, particularly nickel-based superalloy performance under cyclic thermal-mechanical loading. No specific scientific awards for Dr Collins are mentioned in available departmental communications, though the Rolls-Royce UTC recently celebrated prizes for other researchers. Details regarding student supervision and grant funding are not publicly specified, but his position within the EPSRC- and Rolls-Royce-funded UTC indicates active involvement in large-scale collaborative research projects. As part of the Rolls-Royce UTC infrastructure, Dr Collins utilizes specialized facilities including electro-thermal mechanical testing rigs, cyclic oxidation test systems, and synchrotron beamline partnerships for real-time microstructural analysis during deformation and phase transformations.
David P. Field is a Professor at Washington State University's Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture , where he serves as Director of the Institute of Materials Research and Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Education. His expertise spans physical metallurgy , materials characterization , and microstructure engineering . Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Yale University, 1991 M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, 1988 B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, University of Wyoming, 1987 Research focuses on metal deformation , recrystallization mechanisms , and advanced microscopy techniques , particularly addressing texture evolution and grain boundary engineering . Key article trends include computational modeling of microstructural heterogeneity, additive manufacturing of titanium, and thermomechanical processing of uranium-molybdenum alloys. Scientific recognitions include: 2024 Plenary Lecture at ICOTOM 20 2023 Fellow of ASM International 2015 MLK Distinguished Service Award 2011 Best Paper in Physical Sciences, Microscopy and Microanalysis Field has advised 15+ graduate researchers and led international collaborations at institutions like Universite de Lorraine and IISC Bangalore. His work integrates experimental and computational approaches to solve materials challenges in energy and manufacturing sectors.
Ben McMorran is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Oregon, affiliated with the College of Arts and Sciences, Materials Science Institute, and the Oregon Materials Innovation Center (OMQ). His roles include serving on the MSTC Advisory Committee and contributing to interdisciplinary research in SAIL and quantum technology initiatives. Education: Ph.D. in Physics (2009) from the University of Arizona. Research Focus: Free electron physics, matter wave interferometry, electron microscopy, magnetic materials, and quantum technology. His work bridges quantum mechanics and materials science, particularly in imaging topological spin textures and developing structured electron beam techniques. Recent Research Trends: Analysis of chiral plasmons, 3D skyrmions, and magnetic domain walls in multilayer thin films using advanced electron microscopy methods like STEM ptychographic holography and interferometric STEM-EELS. He also contributes to quantum measurement protocols and educational programs for quantum engineers.
Dr. Aimo Winkelmann is a Visiting Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom. His research is centered on advanced electron microscopy techniques, particularly electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), for the structural characterization of semiconductor thin films and microstructures. His research interests lie at the intersection of materials science, solid-state physics, and microstructural analysis. He specializes in: High-resolution crystallographic imaging Strain and defect mapping in semiconductors Development of EBSD and transmission Kikuchi diffraction methods Analysis of GaN and silicon-based thin films Simulation and interpretation of electron diffraction patterns His recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on pushing the limits of diffraction imaging in scanning electron microscopes. The work spans from fundamental simulations of Kikuchi patterns to applied studies on strain in silicon membranes and luminescence in GaN microstructures, indicating a strong trend toward quantitative microstructural analysis in functional materials. Dr. Winkelmann has delivered invited and plenary talks at major international conferences, including the XVIIIth International Conference on Electron Microscopy (2024) and the Materials Research Society Fall Meeting (2023), highlighting his recognition in the field. He actively collaborates with a core research team at Strathclyde, including Prof. Carol Trager-Cowan, Dr. Jochen Bruckbauer, and Dr. Ben Hourahine, and contributes to open datasets supporting reproducibility in EBSD research. While no formal students are listed, his role in mentoring through collaborative research is evident.
Albert Zelenika is a postdoctoral researcher at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), affiliated with the Mechanics of Materials 1 (WM1) group within the Institute of Applied Materials. His research focuses on dislocation dynamics, materials physics, and advanced X-ray microscopy techniques. Education: BSc in Physics, University of Trieste (2014-2018) MSc in Physics, University of Trieste (2018-2021) PhD in Physics, Technical University of Denmark (2021-2024) Zelenika specializes in the application of Dark Field X-ray Microscopy (DFXM) and X-ray diffraction microscopy to study structural evolution during plastic deformation in metals and ceramics. His work reveals critical insights into dislocation patterning, cell formation, and strain dynamics in crystalline materials. Recent research trends highlight Zelenika's contributions to understanding dislocation boundaries , geometrically necessary boundaries (GNBs) , and self-organization of dislocations using in-situ and 4D X-ray imaging. His studies span applications in aluminum , ferritic alloys , and borophene characterization. Laboratory & Collaborations : Zelenika works in Xufei Fang's Lab at KIT and collaborates with researchers at the Technical University of Denmark and European Synchrotron Radiation Facility . His work involves interdisciplinary teams utilizing synchrotron radiation and advanced diffraction techniques.
Dr. Ali Gholinia is a Research Fellow in the Department of Materials at The University of Manchester. He holds a PhD in Materials Science from the University of Manchester (1994), an MSc from the same institution (1992), and a BSc from Middle East Technical University (1988). His expertise spans over 20 years in electron microscopy, Focused Ion Beam (FIB), and Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD), with a focus on 3D microstructure characterization, in-situ mechanical testing, and correlative imaging techniques. His work bridges X-ray tomography and serial sectioning in SEM, emphasizing material microstructure-property linkages. Education: PhD, Materials Science, The University of Manchester (1994) MSc, Materials Science, The University of Manchester (1992) BSc, Middle East Technical University (1988) Research Interests: EBSD and FIB-based 3D microstructure analysis In-situ tensile deformation in SEM Correlative tomography (XCT and FIB-SEM) Advanced materials characterization for energy and aerospace applications Articles Trends: Recent work emphasizes 3D microstructure reconstruction in polycrystalline solar cells, additive manufacturing microstructure analysis, and hydride characterization in Zr alloys. His publications frequently integrate advanced imaging techniques like fs-laser ablation and tri-beam microscopy. Awards: None explicitly stated. Advising & Grants: Currently accepting PhD students. His lab, 'Imaging and Characterisation Group,' focuses on cutting-edge materials analysis tools and methodologies. Labs/Teams: Lead the Imaging and Characterisation Group within the Department of Materials, specializing in correlative microscopy and 3D microstructure analysis.
Wolfgang Pantleon is a Professor in the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), specializing in Materials and Surface Engineering. His research is centered on microstructure evolution, plastic deformation, and advanced characterization techniques in metallic materials, particularly tungsten and nickel-based superalloys. He is actively involved in projects related to fusion materials, additive manufacturing, and high-temperature stability. His research interests include plastic deformation , dislocation structures , annealing , grain growth , recrystallization , and composite materials , with a strong focus on tungsten fiber-reinforced composites for plasma-facing applications. He employs advanced techniques such as electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and high-resolution reciprocal space mapping for in-depth microstructural analysis. His recent publications (2024–2025) reflect a strong trend in materials for nuclear fusion , additive manufacturing of superalloys , and in-situ characterization of phase transformations . These works span journals like Scripta Materialia , Materials Characterization , and Fusion Engineering and Design , emphasizing mechanical performance, microstructural stability, and restoration mechanisms under extreme conditions. He has received notable scientific recognition, including: SOFT2024 PhD Poster Prize Winner (2024) Best Poster Award (2019) Wolfgang Pantleon actively supervises PhD students and leads significant research projects, such as Thermal Stability of Tungsten Fiber-reinforced Tungsten Composites and Stability of Tungsten Plates during High Temperatures . He has secured funding from EU and national sources, demonstrating strong grant acquisition capabilities. His collaborative network includes institutions in Germany and international partners in fusion research. He is affiliated with the Materials and Surface Engineering section at DTU, where he contributes to both fundamental and applied research in advanced materials, particularly for energy and industrial applications.
