James N. Eckstein is a Professor of Physics at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, affiliated with the Frederick Seitz Materials Research Laboratory. He holds a PhD from Stanford University (1978) and a bachelor's degree from St. Olaf College (1973). His research focuses on condensed matter physics, particularly superconductivity, magnetic materials, and advanced thin film growth techniques like molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Eckstein is renowned for pioneering atomic layer-by-layer MBE to study cuprate superconductors and oxide magnetic materials. His work has revealed critical insights into interface physics, proximity effects, and quantum criticality in materials like manganites and topological insulators. Key contributions include studies on colossal magnetoresistance in manganites, quantum coherence in superconducting qubits, and the suppression of superconductivity in topological insulators. Eckstein has authored over 50 publications in journals like Physical Review Letters and Advanced Materials , and holds six U.S. patents. His honors include the James C. McGroddy Prize (2021), Bernd T. Matthias Prize (2012), and APS Fellow status (2005). He teaches advanced electromagnetism courses (PHYS 435/436) and has been recognized for teaching excellence. His lab, the Eckstein Group, collaborates with institutions globally, advancing materials for quantum computing and energy applications.
Dr. Ben Abell is a Senior Lecturer in Plant Biochemistry at Sheffield Hallam University, leading research in biomolecular sciences. He holds a BSc from the University of Cambridge and a PhD from the University of Calgary, followed by postdoctoral research at the University of Manchester. His research focuses on protein and RNA trafficking within cells, with projects addressing viroid RNA import into chloroplasts, membrane protein translational control, and tail-anchored protein targeting. His work is funded by BBSRC, EPSRC, and the Biochemical Society, utilizing techniques like confocal microscopy and ellipsometry analysis. Dr. Abell also actively contributes to academic governance as a programme leader for Integrated Masters degrees in Biology and Chemistry. His teaching integrates research-driven enquiry-based learning, particularly in plant physiology, biotechnology, and molecular biology. He collaborates with researchers across institutions including McGill University, Oregon Health and Science University, and Loughborough University on projects ranging from mathematical modeling to oil body studies. Dr. Abell serves on the editorial board of Frontiers in Plant Science and reviews for multiple international journals, demonstrating his commitment to advancing scientific communication. Recent publications highlight advancements in understanding eIF2B’s role in neurological diseases, amyloid fibril interactions, and innovative teaching methodologies. His research group supports undergraduate research initiatives, bridging academic training with postgraduate pathways.
Dr. Andrivo Rusydi is an Associate Professor at the National University of Singapore. His office is located at S13-02-01, and he can be contacted at +65 6516 4897 / 8931. His research focuses on the interplay of spin, charge, orbital, and lattice degrees of freedom at interfaces and surfaces of complex systems, including magnetic materials, high-temperature superconductors, and molecular electronics. He specializes in developing and applying advanced in-situ synchrotron-based characterization techniques such as resonant soft X-ray magnetic scattering, spectral generalized magneto-optical spectroscopic ellipsometry (from mid-infrared to vacuum-ultraviolet), and angular resolved photoemission spectroscopy. His work also involves atomically controlled film growth using molecular beam epitaxy at the Singapore Synchrotron Light Source. Analysis of his selected publications reveals a focus on oxide interfaces (LaAlO3/SrTiO3), spintronic materials, superconductivity dynamics, and electronic structure modifications in correlated systems. Key methodologies include synchrotron radiation studies, optical conductivity analysis, and time-resolved spectroscopy.
Susan Trolier-McKinstry is an Evan Pugh University Professor and Steward S. Flaschen Professor of Ceramic Science and Engineering, and Professor of Electrical Engineering at Penn State University . She directs the Center for Dielectrics and Piezoelectrics and the Center for Three-Dimensional Ferroelectric Microelectronics. Education: Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Ceramic Science and Engineering from Penn State. Her research focuses on structure-processing-property relationships in electroceramics , particularly dielectric/piezoelectric films and their applications in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). Current projects include CMOS-compatible piezoelectric materials, 3D ferroelectric microelectronics for non-von Neumann architectures, and tunable dielectrics for low-temperature integration. Scientific Awards include IEEE UFFC-S Achievement Award (2025), Edward C. Henry Award (2024), National Academy of Engineering membership (2019), and IEEE Robert E. Newnham Award (2016). Advising: Mentors graduate students such as Casey Zhang and Leonard Jacques. Labs: W.M. Keck Smart Materials Integration Laboratory.
Ornella Cavalleri is an Associate Professor at the University of Genoa's Department of Physics for Life Sciences, Environment and Cultural Heritage. She holds roles in academic governance, including President of the Joint Commission of Teachers and Students, and Director of the Graduate School. Her research focuses on bio-organic nanostructures, nanosystems physics, and protein aggregation, with a particular emphasis on biomedical applications like boron neutron capture therapy for glioblastoma. She leads the OptMatLab research group and teaches courses in physics, biophysics, and medical physics across undergraduate and graduate programs in Pharmacy, Dental Surgery, Biology, and Physics. Her educational contributions include courses such as FISICA CON ELEMENTI DI FISICA MEDICA (Medical Physics Elements) and BIOFISICA (Biophysics) for Pharmacy and Physics degree programs. Cavalleri’s work integrates advanced microscopy techniques (AFM, SEM, XPS) with spectroscopic ellipsometry to investigate biomaterial interfaces, nanolithography, and molecular interactions. Key research themes include developing biomimetic vesicles for targeted cancer therapy and studying protein-DNA interactions at nanoscale interfaces. Recent publications highlight advancements in boron-loaded bio-vesicles for glioblastoma treatment, AFM-based nanolithography for biosensor design, and osteointegration of porous niobium oxides. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges physics, biology, and engineering, with applications in oncology, biomaterials, and diagnostic tools. Despite no explicitly listed awards, her extensive publication record reflects significant contributions to nanomedicine and biophysical instrumentation.
Fred Bijkerk is a Full Professor at the University of Twente's MESA+ Institute, specializing in XUV Optics. His research focuses on thin films, surface science, and material characterization with applications in advanced optics and nanotechnology. He has authored over 486 publications and holds an h-index of 30. His work contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals through innovations in sustainable materials and precision engineering. Key research areas include XUV actuators, piezoelectric thin films, fracture mechanics of advanced materials, and EUV source metrology. He collaborates internationally on projects exploring photon-material interactions, ferroelectric properties, and ultrafast ablation processes. Bijkerk has presented at numerous conferences, including invited talks on nanoscale interface probing and adaptive actuator systems. His contributions span peer-reviewed articles, patents, and book chapters, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to material science challenges. Collaborations involve institutions worldwide, addressing both fundamental and applied research questions. The MESA+ Institute provides a platform for his work in advanced materials and photonics systems development.
Kjeld Pedersen is a Professor at the Department of Materials and Production within the Faculty of Engineering and Science at Aalborg University. He holds a PhD in Strain Measurements by Ellipsometry (1986). His research focuses on advanced materials for energy systems, including lithium-ion batteries, nanocrystalline materials, and piezoelectric energy harvesters. He is a co-investigator in projects such as NEG: Nanoscale Energy Generators and CAPeX – Center for Accelerating P2X Materials Discovery . Key research interests include battery diagnostics , plasmonic nanostructures , and thermophotovoltaic systems . His work spans experimental and theoretical studies, with a focus on material characterization and energy conversion technologies. He has received the Ridderkorset af Dannebrogordenen honor. Education: PhD in Strain Measurements by Ellipsometry (20 May 1986) Recent publications (2023–2025) highlight advancements in piezoelectric energy harvesters for medical devices, battery aging mechanisms, and nanostructured thin films. His work has been cited in high-impact journals and featured in media coverage for innovations in energy materials. He collaborates widely on projects funded by institutions like the Novo Nordisk Foundation and Innovation Fund Denmark, addressing challenges in energy storage, power electronics, and nanomaterials.
Dr. Ranjita K. Bose is an Associate Professor in Polymer Engineering at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen (The Netherlands). Appointed as Assistant Professor in June 2017 and promoted to Associate Professor in June 2022, she also serves as the Programme Director for BSc Chemical Engineering since 2023. Her research focuses on developing sustainable polymer materials and processes with applications in coatings, electronics, and environmental technologies. Dr. Bose's educational background includes: Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Drexel University (USA), 2011 B.E. (Bachelor of Engineering) in Chemical Engineering from Gujarat University (India), 2006 Dr. Bose's research expertise spans polymer engineering, with particular focus on solvent-free processes, sustainable coatings, and smart polymers. She specializes in chemical vapor deposition techniques for creating functional polymer thin films, self-healing materials based on Diels-Alder chemistry, and sustainable polymer systems. Her work bridges fundamental polymer science with practical applications in energy storage, environmental remediation, and advanced manufacturing. She has made significant contributions to understanding structure-property relationships in reversible polymer networks and developing innovative materials with tailored mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties. Analysis of Dr. Bose's recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong focus on Diels-Alder chemistry for creating self-healing and recyclable polymers, chemical vapor deposition of conductive polymers, and sustainable polymer systems. Her work spans fundamental studies of polymerization mechanisms to applied research on materials for energy storage, environmental remediation, and advanced manufacturing. A notable trend is the integration of multiple functionalities (self-healing, electrical conductivity, thermal responsiveness) into single material systems, demonstrating her interdisciplinary approach to polymer engineering challenges. Dr. Bose has secured significant research funding through competitive grants: Just Transition Funds (JTF) from Subsidy North Netherlands (SNN) on Recycling of PVC: €400,000 SNN Subsidy on Circular Furniture 2021: €200,000 ERC FET-Open 2019 grant: €547,000 SNN Subsidy on supercritical CO2 applications: €300,000 Drittmittel Fähig 2013 grant from German Research Foundation: €8,000 George Hill Jr. Fellowship 2008 from Drexel University: $5,000 Dr. Bose actively mentors the next generation of scientists, supervising 7 PhD students, 1 postdoctoral researcher, and 4 MSc students. Her research program is supported by multiple grants totaling over €1.5 million, including European and national funding sources. She has established collaborations with institutions across Europe and has been instrumental in securing the University of Groningen's participation in the EU's Horizon 2020 FET Open Program consortium '5DNanoPrinting' project, which received a grant of €3.58 million (UG allocation: €547,000). Dr. Bose leads a research group focused on polymer thin films and surface chemistry, with particular expertise in structure-property relationships of self-healing polymers. Her team utilizes advanced characterization techniques including NMR, FT-IR, UV-Vis, HPLC, GPC, DSC, TGA, DMA, rheology, XRD, ellipsometry, and various surface analysis methods. She is an active member of the scientific community, serving on program committees, organizing conferences, and contributing to outreach activities that promote polymer science to high school students and the general public.
G.J. Vancso is a Full Professor specializing in Sustainable Polymer Chemistry, recognized for contributions in polymer materials science and nanotechnology. His research focuses on polymer brushes, bio-inspired adhesives, and surface engineering with applications in biomaterials and environmental sustainability. Key research areas include thin film stability, smart hydrogels, and nanomechanical characterization using techniques like atomic force microscopy (AFM). Collaborations span international institutions, emphasizing material innovation in agriculture (e.g., water-harvesting coatings) and biomedical diagnostics. Recipient of two poster prizes at the Xth Dutch Polymer Days (2010) for work on spectroscopy and ellipsometry applications Organized the International Conference on Bioinspired and Zwitterionic Materials (2019) Delivered keynote lectures on smart hydrogels and polymer analysis Over 992 research outputs include articles on copolymer design, AFM-based diagnostics, and innovative material synthesis. His work bridges fundamental polymer science with practical applications in agriculture, healthcare, and environmental technology.
Maria Gioti serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, where she leads research activities within the Micro Fabrication Group at the Lab for Thin Films - Nanobiomaterials - Nanosystems - Nanometrology (LTFN). Her work focuses on advanced characterization of thin film materials using sophisticated optical techniques, particularly ellipsometry across the electromagnetic spectrum from infrared to ultraviolet. Her research expertise spans thin film technology , nanomaterials characterization , and organic electronics , with particular emphasis on optical properties analysis and process development. Dr. Gioti has pioneered methodologies for in-situ and real-time monitoring of thin film deposition processes, enabling precise control over material properties for optoelectronic applications. Her work bridges fundamental materials science with practical device implementation, particularly in the field of organic light-emitting diodes. Analysis of her recent publication record (2021-2025) reveals a strong focus on OLED technology development, with particular attention to polymer-based emitters across the visible spectrum. Her research shows clear progression from fundamental optical characterization toward applied device engineering, with increasing emphasis on flexible and wearable implementations. The publications demonstrate expertise in both solution-processed and vacuum-deposited thin film technologies, with growing interest in nanostructured materials and plasmonic applications. Within the LTFN research ecosystem, Dr. Gioti contributes to the Micro Fabrication Group's mission of developing advanced thin film technologies for electronics, photonics, and sensing applications. Her work interfaces with multiple research groups within the laboratory, including the Organic Electronics Group and Nanomedicine Group, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of modern nanotechnology research.
Wojciech Jadwisienczak is a Professor and Graduate Chair in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the Russ College of Engineering and Technology, Ohio University. He joined Ohio University in 1996 and holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Ohio University (2001) and an M.S. in Physics from Nicholas Copernicus University, Poland (1995). His research focuses on semiconductor materials for optoelectronics, spintronics, and photovoltaics, with a particular emphasis on spectroscopy of lanthanide-doped semiconductors, nanophotonics, and deep-UV light generation. He has advised numerous graduate students supported by NSF, AFOSR, and ARO grants, with advisees receiving Fulbright (2007) and DoD (2011) Fellowships. Jadwisienczak has authored over 50 scientific papers, cited over 800 times, and is affiliated with the Nanoscale Quantum Phenomena Institute (NQPI). His recent work explores graphene quantum dots, YAG:Ce phosphors, and amorphous silicon thin films. He collaborates internationally and holds patents related to rare-earth-doped nitride semiconductors. Research Interests: optical and magnetic properties of wide-bandgap semiconductors, optoelectronic devices, nanotechnology, photonic materials, and deep-UV light applications. Publications highlight advancements in semiconductor doping, nanomaterial synthesis, and device fabrication. His work spans topics like Tb-doped Nb₂O₅ thin films, nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots, and laser-pumped white light sources. Collaborations include institutions like the University of Paris-Saclay and the National Institute of Materials Science (Japan). Labs/Teams: Active in NQPI and the Russ College’s nanotechnology and photonics research groups. Current projects include magnetic control of photoluminescence in nanocomposites and deep-UV electroluminescence devices using boron nitride.
Professor Paul Scott is a faculty member at the University of Huddersfield, holding the Taylor Hobson Chair in Computational Geometry within the School of Computing and Engineering. He leads the Centre for Precision Technologies as Research Director and specializes in surface texture and form metrology, precision engineering, and AI-driven manufacturing solutions. His research integrates mathematical principles with advanced instrumentation, focusing on algorithm development for surface characterization and international standardization (ISO TC/213). Scott earned a PhD in Statistics from Imperial College London and a DSc from the University of Huddersfield. His career includes 26 years at Taylor Hobson Ltd, developing metrology instruments. He has pioneered de facto standard algorithms for surface analysis and contributed to 23 ISO standards. Current research spans computational geometry, AI semantic labeling, and machine-readable standards via Category Semantic Language (CSL). His work addresses Industrie 4.0 challenges, including smart algorithms for feature recognition and digital twins modeling. Collaborations span global institutions, with projects funded by EPSRC (e.g., Future Advanced Metrology Hub). Key areas include XCT-based surface measurement, additive manufacturing metrology, and precision instrumentation. Notable contributions include decomposition theory for geometrical products, filtration techniques in surface analysis, and bridging metrology with Industry 4.0 through data-driven approaches. His h-index of 33 reflects over 3,600 citations across 193+ publications.
Babak Sanii is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at the Keck Science Center, Claremont Colleges. His research focuses on materials science and biophysics, particularly in polymer engineering, nanotechnology, and low-cost microscopy solutions. He can be reached at bsanii@kecksci.claremont.edu . Office: Keck Science Center 131D Phone: 909-607-9851 His work involves creating novel methods for fabricating polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) filaments with switchable hydrophobicity, developing open-source microscopes for diverse geometries, and studying lipid membrane dynamics. These projects intersect polymer science, nanomaterials, and bio-inspired design, with applications in sensors, foldamer modeling, and biomedical research. Recent publications highlight advancements in silicone filament production, lipid gradient analysis, and nanocrystal engineering. His lab emphasizes open-access design methodologies to enable customization for varied research needs.
Jakub Zázvorka is a researcher at the Institute of Physics, Charles University , focusing on semiconductor physics and magnetism. His work bridges materials science with spintronics and optoelectronics, particularly in CdTe-based materials and magnetic skyrmions. Current projects: Magneto-Optical Sensor Development , Spintronic Applications of Antiferromagnetic Structures Teaching: Electron Transport in Quantum Systems , Introductory Optics Seminar His research explores chiral magnetic structures for spintronic devices and semiconductor defects in radiation detectors. Recent publications analyze skyrmion dynamics and optical/magneto-optical properties of advanced materials. Grants: GACR 23-06691S : Sensor development using magneto-optical diffraction PRIMUS/20/SCI/018 : Antiferromagnetic multilayers for spintronics
H. Wormeester is a researcher at the Physics of Interfaces and Nanomaterials department within the MESA+ Institute at the University of Twente. With over 280 research outputs and an h-index of 28, his work focuses on materials science, surface chemistry, and thin films. Research Outputs: 289 (1988–2025) Key Contributions: Ellipsometry, EUV mirror cleaning, ultra-thin film swelling, helium ion microscopy Research Interests Surface science and nanomaterials Thin film characterization using spectroscopic ellipsometry Atomic-scale imaging and material deformation studies Article Trends : Wormeester's publications span topics in materials science, focusing on surface analysis, nanomaterials, and thin film behavior. Recent work (2025) explores systems thinking in chemistry education, while earlier studies examine EUV-induced carbon layers and polymer swelling dynamics. Collaborations : Active in international collaborations, particularly in surface physics and nanomaterials research.
