Find Academic Supervisors

Sean ChesterView profile

Assistant Professor

• Data Management
• Parallel Computing
• Algorithm Engineering
• +5 more

Sean Chester is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Victoria, Canada. He is affiliated with the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science and specializes in scalable data analytics, with a focus on data management, parallel computing, and algorithm engineering. His research interests include GPU-native algorithms, multicore optimization, spatio-temporal data processing, and graph-based analysis. He actively contributes to open-source projects and course materials on platforms like GitHub, emphasizing open science and education. Recent work highlights include advancements in skyline computation, GPU-accelerated algorithms, and efficient processing of large-scale datasets. His publications span topics such as kNN optimization, social network anonymization, and vectorized k-core decomposition. Sean is involved in teaching courses like CSC 485C/586C on data management on modern hardware and CSC 370 on database systems. No scientific awards or grants are explicitly mentioned in the provided texts. He collaborates with students and researchers through platforms like GitHub, where he maintains repositories related to algorithm engineering and educational materials.

Malachy EatonView profile

Associate Professor

• Genetic Algorithms
• Humanoid Robotics
• Artificial Intelligence
• +5 more

Malachy Eaton is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems at the University of Limerick. His research focuses on evolutionary computation, humanoid robotics, and graph theory. Institution: University of Limerick Department: Computer Science and Information Systems Academic Rank: Associate Professor Email: Malachy.Eaton@ul.ie His work spans Genetic Algorithms , Humanoid Robotics , and Artificial Intelligence , with notable contributions to evolutionary robotics, graph layout optimization, and computational intelligence. Research includes: Evolutionary approaches to humanoid robot motion Simulated annealing for graph drawing Force-directed layout algorithms Bridging simulation-to-reality gaps Edge crossing reduction techniques Data mining to evolutionary robotics Key themes in his publications reflect strong expertise in Genetic Algorithms (100% usage), Humanoid Robots (66-100%), and Artificial Intelligence (100%).

• Heuristic search
• Program synthesis
• Deep learning for sound

Vadim Bulitko is a Professor in the Faculty of Science at the University of Alberta, affiliated with the Department of Computing Science. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Research Interests: His work spans heuristic search, program synthesis, and deep learning applications for sound. Recent projects focus on AI-driven puzzle generation, pathfinding in dynamic game environments, and neural network classification. Publications: His 15 most recent articles explore AI advancements in puzzle design, video-game navigation, and bioacoustic classification, emphasizing heuristic optimization and explainable AI techniques.

• Microbial Genetics
• Genomics
• Bioinformatics
• +4 more

Dr. Madhusudan Choudhary is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Sam Houston State University. He holds a Ph.D. from McMaster University and completed post-doctoral training at Duke University. His research laboratory focuses on microbial genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics using Rhodobacter sphaeroides as a model organism to study bacterial cell-cycle regulation, metabolic innovations through gene duplication, and the evolution of genomic complexity in prokaryotes. Key investigations include chromosome replication origins, duplicate gene expression patterns, and the functional specialization of multipartite genomes. Dr. Choudhary's research spans diverse areas including bacterial responses to microgravity, CRISPR-Cas systems, heavy metal resistance mechanisms, and nanoparticle interactions. He directs studies on transcriptomics under stress conditions and develops computational methods for genome analysis. His work has significant implications for understanding microbial evolution and environmental adaptation.

Thomas A. RunklerView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Machine Learning
• Data Analytics
• Pattern Recognition
• +3 more

Thomas A. Runkler is an Adjunct Professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), holding a Chair in the Foundations of Software Reliability and Theoretical Computer Science within the TUM School of Computation, Information and Technology. Since 1999, he has taught computer science at TUM while concurrently serving in various expert and managerial roles at Siemens AG, where he currently holds the position of Senior Principal Research Scientist. His academic journey includes a Master’s and PhD in electrical engineering from TU Darmstadt (1992/1995), followed by postdoctoral research at the University of West Florida (1996–1997). Runkler’s research spans machine learning , data analytics , fuzzy systems , and optimization . He has authored/co-authored over 200 publications, focusing on topics like clustering algorithms, neural networks, and decision-making frameworks. Professional contributions include leadership roles in organizations such as the IEEE CIS committees and the German Association for Computer Science’s Fuzzy Systems group. His teaching includes courses on Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery . Key publications include foundational works on fuzzy preference structures, Bayesian decomposition of dynamical systems, and interpretable reinforcement learning policies. Runkler’s work bridges academia and industry, emphasizing practical applications in automation, recommendation systems, and industrial procurement forecasting. His research often addresses challenges in uncertainty handling, algorithm design, and scalable data analysis.

• Scientific Visualization
• Data Visualization
• Data Science
• +5 more

Min Chen is a Professor of Scientific Visualization at the University of Oxford, affiliated with the Department of Engineering Science and Pembroke College. He holds fellowships from the British Computer Society, European Computer Graphics Association, and Learned Society of Wales. His career spans over three decades, with previous roles at Swansea University (1984–2011) and current leadership in visualization research. His research focuses on visualization theory, video visualization, visual analytics, and interdisciplinary applications in fields like epidemiology and cybersecurity. He has authored over 200 publications and led projects such as RAMPVIS during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key roles include editor-in-chief of Computer Graphics Forum and associate editor of IEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics. Education: BSc and PhD in relevant fields (details not explicitly stated in texts). Awards include the VGTC Visualization Lifetime Achievement Award (2024). His work emphasizes the theoretical underpinnings of visualization and practical tools for data intelligence.

• Plant Genomics
• Machine Learning
• Computational Biology
• +5 more

Philipp Bayer is an Adjunct Research Fellow at the University of Western Australia (UWA) and a Principal in the OceanOmics project at the Minderoo Foundation. His roles include computational biology research focused on plant genomics, machine learning applications in genomics, and environmental DNA (eDNA) methods for ocean biodiversity monitoring. He holds a PhD from the University of Queensland (UQ) and has held positions such as a Forrest Fellowship and DECRA fellowship, focusing on wheat breeding and evolutionary genomics. Bayer is a member of the UWA Data Institute's Research Committee and the Scientific Advisory Committee for the ARDC Machine Learning CoP. Education and Career Highlights: PhD in Plant Genomics, UQ (2016) DECRA Fellowship at UWA (2021–2023), studying plant gene evolution Forrest Fellowship (2018–2020) on wheat genomics and machine learning Principal, Computational Biology, Minderoo Foundation (2022–present) Research Interests: Plant pangenomics and genome evolution Machine learning for crop improvement and biodiversity analysis eDNA-based marine biodiversity monitoring Genetic mechanisms underlying crop domestication Grants and Collaborations: GRDC: Machine learning for canola disease resistance ARC DECRA: Evolutionary genomics of plant genes Collaborations with BASF, Intergrain, and the OceanOmics initiative Awards: Finalist in the 2019 WA Premier’s Science Award. Labs/Teams: Leads the OceanOmics project and organizes Hacky Hour (code/data support sessions).

• Maintenance Optimization
• Reliability Engineering
• Forecasting Methods
• +2 more

Dr. Wenjuan Zhang is Associate Professor of Operational Research at Warwick Business School. Her research develops optimization and forecasting methods for reliability engineering, maintenance planning, and renewable energy systems. Work includes evolutionary algorithms for wind farm maintenance optimization and reliability assessment methods for transportation systems. Research has applications in energy infrastructure and healthcare modeling.

• Plant Lipid Biotechnology
• Oilseed Crops
• Oleaginous Microorganisms
• +4 more

Guanqun (Gavin) Chen is an Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair (Tier II) in Plant Lipid Biotechnology at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences. His research focuses on enhancing seed oil production and customization in oilseed crops like canola and arabidopsis, alongside exploring lipid biotechnology in microorganisms such as yeast and microalgae. He holds a PhD from The University of Hong Kong and has received prestigious awards including the 2023 C.D. Nelson Award in Plant Biology and a Fulbright Scholar Award. His academic career includes teaching courses such as Lipid Science (AFNS 414/514) and Plants for Bioproducts (AFNS 545/PL SC 345). Research interests center on lipid biosynthesis mechanisms, metabolic engineering strategies, and improving agronomic traits like stress tolerance and seed quality. Key projects involve synthetic biology approaches to produce specialty oils and high-value bioproducts. Dr. Chen's lab (plb.ualberta.ca) actively seeks research students and has published extensively on topics ranging from CRISPR-mediated gene editing in plant immunity to novel methods for lipid analysis. He leads efforts to leverage microbial systems for sustainable biofuel production and value-added biomolecules, contributing to Canada's agricultural and biotechnology sectors.

Emma NorlingView profile

Professor

• Agent-Based Modelling
• Social Simulation
• Cognitive Modelling
• +3 more

Professor Emma Norling is a Professor of Engineering Education and Director of Education in the School of Computer Science at the University of Sheffield. She holds a BEng (Hons) from the University of Melbourne and a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Sheffield. Her career includes postdoctoral work at Manchester Metropolitan University's Centre for Policy Modelling and a lecturing role at its School of Mathematics, Computing and Digital Technology. Her research focuses on agent-based systems, particularly cognitive and social simulations, with an emphasis on integrating social intelligence into computational models. She leads the Teaching Specialists group and oversees accreditation and professional institution relations. Key roles include directing educational strategy and promoting pedagogical innovation in engineering and computing education. Her publications highlight contributions to agent-based modelling methodologies, emergency response systems, and social simulation frameworks. Notable works include studies on food web evolution, morphogenetic network growth for emergency teams, and the application of BDI agents in human behavior modelling. She actively engages with interdisciplinary approaches, bridging computer science with education and social sciences. Professional service includes leading educational accreditation efforts and fostering collaboration between academia and industry. She is a sought-after expert in computational models of human behavior and their implications for educational technology and societal systems.

• Biomimetics
• Bio-inspired Design
• Animal Flight
• +3 more

Prof. D. (David) Lentink is a Full Professor of Biomimetics at the University of Groningen, Faculty of Science and Engineering. His research focuses on understanding biological flight mechanics, particularly in birds, to inspire advanced robotics and aerospace innovations. He holds a PhD in Experimental Zoology (cum laude, Wageningen University, 2008) and dual MS/BS degrees in Aerospace Engineering (Delft University of Technology, 2003). Lentink leads the Biomimetics Group, pioneering projects like rudderless flight and morphing-wing drones. His work bridges biomechanics, robotics, and aerodynamics, with notable contributions to aerial grasping systems and biomimetic materials. Education: PhD cum laude, Experimental Zoology, Wageningen University (2008) MS/BS, Aerospace Engineering, Delft University of Technology (2003) Research Interests: Biomimetics, bio-inspired design, animal flight biomechanics, aerodynamics of flight, and aerial robotics. His lab develops cutting-edge tools like the Aerodynamic Force Platform to measure in vivo forces and advanced wind tunnels for precise flight studies. Awards: 2018 Steven Vogel Young Investigator Award 2017 National Academy of Engineering Gilbreth Lecturer 2013 World Economic Forum Top 40 Scientists Under 40 Grants & Labs: Lentink oversees grants from NSF, Human Frontiers Science Program, and Dutch Academic Year Prize. His lab collaborates globally and maintains ties with Stanford University’s former projects. Current focus includes biomimetic drones for complex environments and understanding turbulence adaptation in birds.

Emma TowlsonView profile

Assistant Professor

• Network Neuroscience
• Brain Networks
• Mental Health
• +3 more

Dr. Emma Towlson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Calgary's Faculty of Science, serving as Assistant Head of Undergraduate Curriculum. She holds a Full Member position at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute and is a Child Health & Wellness Researcher at the Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute. Her research focuses on network neuroscience, exploring how brain networks' structure-function relationships underpin health and disease. Key areas include network control theory, mental illness vulnerability, and brain connectivity analysis across species. Dr. Towlson's work bridges computer science, physics, neuroscience, and biology. She investigates structural brain networks' topological features (e.g., rich clubs, modules) and their spatial constraints, applying these insights to disorders like schizophrenia, depression, and Alzheimer's. Her lab uses network control principles to identify therapeutic targets for brain stimulation therapies and personalized medicine approaches. Recent grants include a $250,000 New Frontiers in Research Fund (NFRF) Explorations grant (2022) to study preterm birth's impact on brain networks and mental illness risk. She teaches courses on social network analysis (CPSC 572/672) and data visualization (DATA 601). Collaborative efforts include partnerships with Harvard Medical School and Monash University's Turner Institute. Her team’s interdisciplinary projects include analyzing mouse brain connectomes, simulating connectome perturbations, and developing open-source network neuroscience tools. Ongoing work emphasizes translating network science insights into clinical applications for mental health interventions.

Jeremy FoxView profile

Professor

• Community Ecology
• Ecological Restoration
• Mathematical Ecology
• +4 more

Jeremy W. Fox is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Calgary. He holds a PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Rutgers University (2000) and a BA from Williams College (1995). His work focuses on community assembly processes, combining experimental and theoretical approaches with microbial systems. Key interests include dispersal effects, ecosystem function, and the dynamics of competitive interactions. Research highlights include challenging the Intermediate Disturbance Hypothesis (2013), quantifying biodiversity's role in ecosystem stability (2013), and analyzing meta-analytic approaches in ecology (2022). His lab explores how environmental fluctuations and species traits influence community structure and stability. Fox has been recognized with awards including the British Ecological Society Early Career Award (2007) and Alberta Ingenuity grants (2005-2007). Teaching includes courses on quantitative biology (ECOL 425, BIOL 315). His work emphasizes experimental rigor, theoretical frameworks, and open science practices. The Fox Lab's research spans ecological restoration, food web dynamics, and evolutionary ecology, with a focus on long-term community processes and their applied implications.

Thorbjørn KnudsenView profile

Professor

• Strategic Organization
• Decision making in organizations
• Economic evolution
• +2 more

Thorbjørn Knudsen is a Part-Time Professor of Strategic Organization Design at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), co-director of the Danish Institute for Advanced Study (DIAS), and research leader of the Strategic Organization Design (SOD) unit. His work focuses on evolutionary processes, organizational adaptation, and how design impacts collective outcomes. He holds a PhD in Business Economics (1999) and a Diploma in Economics (1994), both from SDU. Knudsen has led over €3.75 million in research projects, including a Sapere Aude Advanced Grant (2014–2019). He serves as Senior Editor of Organization Science and editorial roles in top journals like Strategic Management Journal . His research spans organizational learning, decision-making hierarchies, and biological analogies to organizational complexity. Notable works include Context and Aggregation (2023) and Ant Colonies (2021). Awards include the Order of Dannebrog and Tietgenprisen 2003. Knudsen’s SOD unit hosts international researchers and focuses on strategic design, search/learning, and value chain organization. He supervises PhDs and teaches strategy, organization theory, and statistics. Key collaborations include institutions like Wharton, Stanford, and Warwick. His funded projects address risk management, knowledge sharing, and firm dynamics. Current roles include Chair of Social Sciences at DIAS and member of the Strategy Research Initiative.

Rachel PoretskyView profile

Associate Professor

• Microbial Ecology
• Biogeochemistry
• Bacterial Diversity
• +5 more

Rachel Poretsky is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Her research focuses on microbial ecology, bacterial diversity, and community structure in natural and engineered environments, with a particular emphasis on aquatic systems. She explores functional diversity through metagenomics and metatranscriptomics to understand microbial responses to environmental changes. Dr. Poretsky's lab investigates how bacterial communities influence biogeochemical cycles and public health through wastewater surveillance and aquaculture studies. Education: PhD in Biological Sciences from the University of Georgia, and a prior degree from Brandeis University. She is actively involved in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students through UIC's Biological Sciences program, offering opportunities in microbial ecology, bioinformatics, and molecular ecology. Her work bridges fundamental research with applied challenges in ecosystem and public health. Research Highlights: Key projects include studying microbial communities in marine, freshwater, and hospital wastewater systems, with publications on antimicrobial resistance genes, viral surveillance, and larval fish microbiomes. Her lab engages in collaborative efforts to develop tools for environmental health monitoring and sustainable aquaculture practices. Labs/Teams: Dr. Poretsky's Lab ( freshwaterlab.org ) focuses on freshwater systems and water stewardship. Grants & Funding: Her research is supported by grants addressing environmental microbiology and public health surveillance.