Professor Hong Hao is a John Curtin Distinguished Professor at Curtin University, affiliated with the School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering and the Curtin Research Centre for Infrastructural Monitoring & Protection. His expertise spans Structural Dynamics, Earthquake Engineering, Blast and Impact Engineering, and Structural Health Monitoring. He holds prestigious roles like Fellow of ATSE, ISEAM, and ASCE, and has led organizations such as the International Association of Protective Structures and the Australian Earthquake Engineering Society. Education: BE (Tianjin University, 1982), MSc (UC Berkeley, 1985), PhD (UC Berkeley, 1989). Awards include the Tan Chin Tuan Fellowship and multiple Ko Medals. He has authored over 200 journal articles, with recent work focusing on blast-resistant materials, seismic fragility, and AI-driven structural health monitoring. His research emphasizes resilient infrastructure, including metaconcrete structures, corrosion-resistant materials, and sensor-based damage detection. Ongoing projects involve smart tunnel safety under BLEVE explosions and modular building systems.
Simo Hostikka is a Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Aalto University's School of Engineering. His research focuses on fire safety engineering , utilizing numerical fire simulations to address critical challenges in building and infrastructure safety. Key Expertise: Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) development, thermal radiation heat transfer, pyrolysis modeling, fire toxicity calculations, and probabilistic risk analysis. Leadership: Supervises advanced fire safety research and contributes to international fire safety standards. Research Trends: Recent publications emphasize fire toxicity modeling , hydrogen fire safety , radiation heat transfer , and fire retardancy of polymeric materials . His work bridges computational methods with real-world fire safety applications. Scientific Awards: Philip Thomas Medal of Excellence (2008, 2005) Sjölin Award (2012) Interflam Trophy (2007) Harmathy Award (2020, 2019) Dean’s Award for Best MSc Thesis (2020) Best Paper in Rakenteiden Mekaniikka (2009) Advising: Supervised Topi Sikanen, who received the Young Talent Award from the International Water Mist Association.
Dr. Alan Lloyd is an Assistant Professor in Civil Engineering at the University of New Brunswick, specializing in structural response to extreme loads. He directs experimental research at the Drop Mass Impact Test Facility, focusing on blast-resistant design and retrofit techniques. Education: PhD Civil Engineering, University of Ottawa MASc Civil Engineering, University of Ottawa BEng Civil Engineering, Lakehead University Diploma Civil Engineering Technology, Camosun College Research: Investigates blast/impact effects on structures, structural retrofitting, material behavior under high strain rates, and experimental validation using shock tubes and impact testing. Current projects include developing blast-resistant building components and retrofit solutions for existing infrastructure. Publications: Focus on blast dynamics, FRP composites for structural strengthening, and experimental mechanics. Recurring themes include concrete/wood material performance under explosive loads and design methodologies for blast mitigation. Awards: NSERC Graduate Scholarships National Security Innovation Competition prizes (2010, 2011) ACI Blast Prediction Contest winner Advising: Supervises graduate students researching FRP materials, concrete properties, and structural modeling. Manages industry collaborations on blast-resistant technologies. Facilities: Leads development of the Drop Mass Impact Test Facility for structural component testing under controlled impact conditions.
Prof Nikolaos Nikiforakis is a Professor at the University of Cambridge, leading the Laboratory for Scientific Computing at the Cavendish Laboratory. He holds roles including Director for Academic Programmes of the Centre for Scientific Computing, Course Director of the MPhil in Scientific Computing, and Deputy Director of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Computational Methods for Materials Science. He is also a Fellow and Director of Studies in Mathematics at Selwyn College, Cambridge. He directs The Gianna Angelopoulos Programme for Science Technology and Innovation. He holds a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Manchester, followed by an MSc in Aerospace Propulsion and a PhD in 'Evolution of Detonation Waves' from Cranfield Institute of Technology. His postdoctoral research at the University of Cambridge’s Department of Chemistry focused on computational models for stratospheric ozone depletion. He later founded the Laboratory of Computational Dynamics at the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics before joining the Cavendish Laboratory in 2008. His research focuses on numerical algorithms and High Performance Computing for multi-physics simulations involving complex systems of nonlinear PDEs. Applications span detonation dynamics, plasma physics, and materials science, with industry collaborations for software development. His work addresses multi-scale, multi-physics problems previously deemed intractable, with practical applications in aerospace, energy, and environmental fields. He leads academic programmes in scientific computing and supervises doctoral research through the EPSRC CDT. His contributions bridge fundamental science and industrial innovation, emphasizing computational methods for materials and fluid dynamics.
Anne Simone Dederichs is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), specializing in Structures and Safety. She is actively engaged in research and teaching in fire safety engineering, combustion dynamics, and evacuation modeling. Her work spans academic, industrial, and policy-relevant domains, with strong collaborations across Scandinavia. Doctoral Degree, Dept. of Fire Safety Engineering, Lund University (1998–2004) Master of Science, Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen (1991–1997) Bachelor of Science, Niels Bohr Institute and Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Copenhagen (1991–1996, 1991–1995) Her research focuses on fire safety engineering , evacuation dynamics , universal design in safety systems , and sustainable construction materials . She has led seminars and EU meetings on computational fluid dynamics in combustion and turbulent combustion, and she teaches in fire chemistry, fire dynamics, and risk management. Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to sustainable cities and inclusive design. Recent publications show a trend toward integrating digital tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) into fire safety, analyzing evacuation inclusivity (e.g., on ships), and evaluating fire risks of new sustainable materials. Her research bridges experimental analysis, modeling, and real-world application in buildings and industrial settings. She has held external positions as a Senior Research Scientist at RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden) and as a Researcher at Lund University. She has supervised PhD projects on composite material aging and fire safety compliance through BIM. Anne is actively involved in project leadership and collaboration, particularly in Nordic research networks. She has organized post-graduate courses and authored teaching materials in fire safety and chemical kinetics.
Professor Evangelos Boulougouris is Head of the Department of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Marine Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, where he also serves as Chair of the Maritime Safety Research Centre. He is a chartered professional engineer with over 28 years of internationally recognized research in maritime safety, design for safety, and holistic ship design. His work spans damage stability, autonomous vessels, alternative fuels, and ship survivability, with strong impact on international regulations through roles in IMO, ITTC, SNAME, and RINA. Research Interests: His primary research focuses on safety of marine operations, including damage and intact stability in waves, collision avoidance, ship evacuation, crashworthiness, and the integration of alternative fuels like ammonia and hydrogen. He leads cutting-edge work in multi-objective ship design optimization, risk modeling, and decarbonization strategies for advanced marine vehicles. The recent 15 publications highlight a strong trend toward digitalization and sustainability in shipping, combining machine learning for propeller optimization, CFD simulations for catamaran performance, real-time decision support in emergencies, and hybrid propulsion systems for zero-emission vessels. His work increasingly emphasizes climate resilience, port risk under extreme weather, and energy management in CTVs, aligning with global SDGs. Scientific Awards: 2020 Denny Medal SNAME ABS Captain Joseph H. Linnard Prize (2023) Safety 2020 Best Paper Award (2022) Honorable Mention for Vice Admiral E. L. Cochrane Award (2022) EU CHAMPIONS of Transport Research (HOLISHIP, TRA 2014) Greek Technical Innovation Award, Lloyd’s List (2009) 1st Prize, International SAFER SHIP Competition (1999) Advising and Grants: He actively supervises PhD students and has led numerous EU and UK-funded projects such as SEASTARS, SAFARI, EcoShipYard, and Digital Shipwright. As Principal Investigator and Co-I, he secures substantial research funding, coordinates knowledge exchange (KE) initiatives, and leads training programs across Europe. Labs and Teams: He leads the Maritime Safety Research Centre at Strathclyde, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration on ship safety, stability, and sustainable design. His team works closely with industry partners RCG and DNV, and engages in international networks through STAB, ITTC, and IMO committees.
James McLaughlin is a Professor of Physics at Northumbria University, specializing in solar physics and magnetohydrodynamics. He holds a PhD from the University of St Andrews and previously worked at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and the University of St Andrews as a Research Fellow. His research focuses on magnetic reconnection, solar coronal dynamics, and MHD wave behavior. He leads the Solar and Space Physics Group and secured a £1.29M STFC grant (2023–2026). McLaughlin supervises PhD students exploring oscillatory reconnection dynamics and has authored over 50 peer-reviewed papers. He is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and a Member of the Institute of Physics. Education: MSci (Mathematics & Physics), Durham University, 2002 PhD (Applied Mathematics & Solar Physics), University of St Andrews, 2002–2006 Research Interests: Magnetic reconnection mechanisms, solar flare dynamics, coronal heating, MHD wave propagation, and plasma diagnostics in extreme astrophysical environments. His work bridges theoretical modeling, numerical simulations, and observational data from instruments like SDO/AIA and DKIST. Recent Projects: STFC Consolidated Grant: Solar and Space Physics Group (£1.29M, 2023–2026) Awards: Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society (2002) Member of the Institute of Physics (1998) Advising & Grants: Supervises PhD students Ryan Smith and Jordan Talbot. His research explores oscillatory reconnection’s role in generating solar waves and energy release. He collaborates internationally on space physics missions and heliophysics studies.
Dr. Sumanta Das is an Associate Professor and Graduate Director in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Rhode Island. His research focuses on sustainable infrastructure materials, with particular expertise in cementitious materials, composite structures, and advanced computational modeling techniques. He directs a vibrant research group that bridges experimental mechanics with computational modeling and machine learning approaches to address challenges in infrastructure durability and performance. Dr. Das received his educational training from prestigious institutions: Ph.D. in Materials and Structures from Arizona State University (2015) M.Tech. in Structural Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (2012) B.E. in Civil Engineering from Jadavpur University (2010) His research interests center around developing sustainable and durable infrastructure materials through innovative design approaches. Dr. Das investigates microstructure-property relationships in cementitious systems, with special focus on materials containing microencapsulated phase change materials for freeze-thaw durability, fiber-reinforced composites, and smart cementitious materials with self-sensing capabilities. His work integrates advanced experimental techniques like nanoindentation with computational modeling approaches including finite element analysis, molecular dynamics simulations, and machine learning algorithms to predict material behavior and optimize performance. Dr. Das's recent publications demonstrate a clear trajectory toward integrating machine learning with traditional materials science approaches. His research group has made significant contributions to understanding the behavior of cementitious composites under extreme conditions, developing multifunctional composites with embedded sensing capabilities, and creating computational frameworks that bridge multiple scales from molecular to structural levels. The work shows increasing sophistication in combining experimental validation with predictive modeling. Dr. Das has successfully secured numerous research grants as PI or Co-PI from diverse funding sources including the Office of Naval Research, Department of Defense, US Department of Transportation, and industry partners like Goetz Composites. His research portfolio spans infrastructure durability, composite materials for marine applications, and smart sensing technologies for structural health monitoring. As an educator and mentor, Dr. Das has supervised multiple doctoral and master's students who have completed theses on topics including: Multiscale simulation and machine learning-assisted performance prediction for cementitious composites Performance-based multiscale tuning of inclusion-modified and 3D printed composites Enhancing freeze-thaw durability of cementitious composites through innovative materials design Underwater explosion response of composite structures Implosion pulse mitigation using additively manufactured filler profiles
Steven Son is the Alfred J McAllister Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University with a courtesy appointment in Materials Engineering. His research focuses on energetic materials, combustion physics, and advanced propulsion systems through experimental and computational investigations. Primary Affiliation: Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering Laboratory: Zucrow Labs, Purdue University Dr. Son's research spans: Combustion and detonation physics Laser diagnostics and spectroscopy Smart energetic material design Additive manufacturing of propulsion components Flexoelectric and piezoelectric material applications Thermal decomposition mechanisms His recent work demonstrates advancements in: Aluminized composite propellant characterization Shock sensitivity of molecular crystals Throttleable solid propellant systems Machine learning for energetic material properties 3D-printed energetic compositions Current advisees include graduate student Ethan Binkley , while his laboratory group conducts research at Zucrow Labs, Purdue's premier propulsion research facility.
Chanel Fallon is a Lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bath, affiliated with the Centre for Integrated Materials, Processes & Structures (IMPS). Her research focuses on dynamic material behavior and infrastructure protection under extreme conditions. She holds a PhD and MEng from the University of Cambridge. Research interests include dynamic experimental techniques (e.g., gas guns, Split-Hopkinson pressure bars), numerical modeling of extreme loading, blast/impact mitigation for civilian infrastructure, and strain-rate/temperature-dependent material characterization. Recent projects include cryogenic composite testing (EPSRC-funded), GKN Prosperity Partnership in aerospace materials, and blast protection strategies for concrete structures. She collaborates widely on material testing and structural resilience. Advising and Grants: Principal Investigator/Co-Investigator on 4 research projects, including EPSRC grants and industry partnerships. Supervises doctoral students in protective materials and structural dynamics. Labs/Teams: Active in the IMPS Centre, specializing in advanced material testing and computational modeling.
Armin Stuedlein is a Professor of Geotechnical Engineering at Oregon State University's College of Engineering, specializing in ground improvement, liquefaction mitigation, and soil-structure interaction. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Washington (2008) and joined OSU in 2009 after consulting in port and harbor engineering. His research focuses on geotechnical testing, probabilistic analysis, and seismic resilience, with over 150 peer-reviewed publications. Education: Ph.D., Civil Engineering, University of Washington (2008) M.S., Civil Engineering, Syracuse University (2003) B.S., Environmental Engineering, SUNY-Environmental Science & Forestry (2000) Research Interests: Liquefaction mitigation and ground improvement techniques Dynamic soil behavior and cyclic softening Seismic retrofit strategies for infrastructure Biocementation and soil modification Probabilistic geotechnical engineering Awards: 2018 ASTM Award for Outstanding Geotechnical Testing Article 2015 ASCE Journal Associate Editor of the Year 2013 Deep Foundations Institute Young Professor Award Advising/Grants: Active in mentoring graduate students and securing grants from NSF, DOTs, and industry partners. Leads the Full-Scale Geotechnics Group, focusing on field-scale geotechnical experimentation. Labs/Teams: Oversees the Full-Scale Geotechnics Group and collaborates with the Geotechnical Research team, advancing large-scale testing methodologies and field applications.
Jenn-Ming Yang is a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), holding the Collins Aerospace Term Chair for Excellence. His work focuses on advanced composite materials for aerospace and transportation applications, with significant contributions to high-temperature material systems. Professor Yang's research centers on fundamental problems in processing, microstructure development, and mechanical behavior of high-temperature composites. His investigations target critical applications in aerospace structural systems and ground transportation, with emphasis on material durability, failure mechanisms, and performance under extreme conditions. This work bridges materials science, mechanical engineering, and aerospace engineering through experimental and analytical approaches. His recent publications (2007-2008) reveal a concentrated focus on composite material systems, including titanium-based laminates, carbon nanotube reinforcements, ultra-incompressible transition metal diborides, and ceramic composites. Key research themes involve mechanical property characterization, failure analysis, and microstructure-property relationships, with direct applications to aircraft structures, propulsion systems, and energy storage technologies. Professor Yang's scientific achievements have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards: Scholars Award from National Engineering Research Center for Composite Manufacturing Science & Engineering (1987) Faculty Career Development Award (1989) Presidential Young Investigator Award from the National Science Foundation (1990-1995) Alcoa Foundation Award (1992) Ford Foundation Award (1993) Best Paper Award from the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers (2007) His research program addresses critical challenges in advanced material systems for next-generation aerospace and transportation applications, with ongoing investigations into novel composite architectures and high-temperature material solutions.
Professor Peter Cragg is a distinguished academic in supramolecular chemistry at the University of Brighton, affiliated with the School of Applied Sciences. He holds the rank of Professor and has been active there since 1993. His research focuses on molecular recognition, macrocyclic chemistry, and computational methods applied to drug delivery, antifungal agents, and chemical warfare agent detection. Education: PhD from the University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa), preceded by a degree from the University of Nottingham. He has conducted postdoctoral research at SUNY Long Island and the University of Reading. Research Interests: Explores supramolecular systems for drug delivery (e.g., vitamin D3, rocuronium bromide), biofilm inhibition, and nerve agent detection. Collaborations include work on nanodiamond antibiofilm agents and photoresponsive drug delivery systems. Grants & Projects: Led or co-investigated projects funded by EPSRC, Leverhulme Trust, US Army Research Office, and EU programs (e.g., DERMA project on regenerative materials). Active in interdisciplinary collaborations bridging chemistry, biology, and pharmacology. Publications: Over 112 peer-reviewed articles and two books on supramolecular chemistry. Recent work emphasizes nanostructured materials, fluorescent chemosensors, and antimicrobial agents. Teaching & Outreach: Delivers lectures linking fundamental chemistry to real-world applications, including historical art analysis and current research examples. Actively mentors PhD students globally and serves as an external examiner for multiple institutions worldwide.
Professor Chengqing Wu is a distinguished academic in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS). He serves as Professor of Structural Engineering with a research focus on blast-induced phenomena and advanced concrete technologies. His expertise spans structural response to blast loading, mitigation of blast effects, and the development of ultra-high performance concrete systems. Professor at University of Technology, Sydney Former Chair of Australian Chapter of International Association of Protective Structures (2013-2017) Associate Editor of ASCE Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities Editorial Board Member of International Journal of Protective Structures Professor Wu's research interests center on structural engineering with emphasis on blast resistance, ultra-high performance concrete, geopolymer concrete, and structural response to extreme loading conditions. His work bridges theoretical analysis with practical applications, particularly in protective structures and extreme environment construction. His research group has made significant contributions to understanding material behavior under blast, impact, and extreme thermal conditions, with applications ranging from terrestrial infrastructure to potential lunar construction. Analysis of Professor Wu's recent publications reveals a strong focus on advanced concrete technologies for extreme environments. His research spans 3D-printed concrete, lunar and Martian construction materials, cryogenic performance of concrete, and blast-resistant structural systems. A notable trend is the increasing application of computational methods and machine learning techniques to predict structural response to explosions, alongside traditional experimental approaches. His work demonstrates a progression from fundamental material characterization to complex structural system analysis, with growing emphasis on sustainable construction and extraterrestrial applications. Author/co-author of over 200 international journal papers Editor of four conference proceedings Editor of two ASCE special issues Editor of two International Journal of Protective Structures special issues Professor Wu has successfully attracted over 4 million dollars in research funding from diverse sources including the Australian Research Council (ARC), Defence Science and Technology Organization (DSTO), and industry partners. His current projects include Eco-friendly Ultra-High Performance Rubberised Concrete, Decarbonised Infrastructure, Structural protective design on large capacity flywheel energy storage system, and Gas Explosion Resistance of Non-Cement Based High Performance Concrete. He actively supervises undergraduate honors students, coursework master's students, and research higher degree candidates, with several scholarships available for prospective postgraduates and research associates. Professor Wu leads research in protective infrastructure technology through the Joint Research Centre for Protective Infrastructure Technology and Environmental Green Bioprocess with Tianjin Chenjian University. His team operates the National Drop Weight Impact Testing Facility and contributes to the National Facility for Physical Blast Simulation. Current research directions include sustainable concrete technologies for extreme environments, blast-resistant structural systems, and innovative applications of concrete in space exploration contexts.
Professor Wensu Chen is a Director of the Centre for Infrastructural Monitoring and Protection (CIMP) and holds the position of ARC Future Fellow at Curtin University's School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering. He leads research in protective structures and materials, structural resilience, and multi-hazard mitigation. With a BE/MSc from Tianjin University, ME from the University of Melbourne, and a PhD from the University of Western Australia, his career spans academia and industry. His research focuses on novel metaconcrete materials, blast-resistant designs, and modular construction. He has secured multiple ARC grants (Discovery, DECRA, Linkage) and collaborates with industry/government bodies like DEMIRS WA and Engineers Australia. Research interests include metamaterials, structural strengthening, and dynamic response analysis under impact and blast loads. Key awards include the Curtin Early-Career Researcher of the Year and Western Australian Premier’s Science Award nominations. He supervises over 20 PhD students and teaches courses in structural analysis and dynamics. His work emphasizes sustainable, resilient infrastructure with applications in building envelopes, seismic control, and tunnel safety under explosive threats.
