Fiora Artusio is a Fixed-term Assistant Professor at the Politecnico di Torino , affiliated with the Department of Applied Science and Technology (DISAT) and the Biopharmaceutical Technology Laboratory . She teaches in the College of Chemical and Materials Engineering , with instructional roles in Transport Phenomena and Chemical Reactors, Organic Chemistry, and Unit Operations in Industrial Chemical Processes. Research Focus: Pharmaceutical freeze-drying, thermal interactions, process optimization, and surface-induced crystallization. Projects: Theory-driven CFD and experimental studies on twin-screw extruders, funded by commercial contracts. Students: Supervises PhD candidates Mario Fiorentino and Giacomo Presutti in Chemical Engineering. Publications: Recent works emphasize freeze-drying uniformity, thermal modeling, excipient effects, and rack system innovations.
Giorgia Montalbano is a Fixed-term Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Science and Technology (DISAT) at the Polytechnic University of Turin, specializing in Materials Science and Technology. She is an active member of both the College of Biomedical Engineering and the College of Chemical and Materials Engineering, where she serves as an invited member. Dr. Montalbano's research focuses on biomaterials for biomedical applications, particularly in bone tissue engineering. Her work encompasses 3D printing of biomimetic scaffolds, electrospinning techniques, collagen-based materials, and smart materials development. She has made significant contributions to the fields of scaffold fabrication, surface modifications, and the development of functional (bio)materials for regenerative medicine applications. Her research often involves the development of innovative strategies for bone regeneration, including the incorporation of bioactive components like strontium-doped glasses and hydroxyapatite nanorods into collagen-based scaffolds. Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on advanced materials fabrication techniques, with particular emphasis on 3D printing, electrospinning, and the development of biomimetic systems that replicate natural bone structure and function. Her work bridges materials science with biomedical applications, creating novel solutions for tissue engineering challenges. Dr. Montalbano serves as the Scientific Director for the FOCAL project (FIBER OPTIC SENSORS AS A PLATFORM FOR CANCER DIAGNOSIS AND IN VITRO MODEL TESTING), funded under the PNRR Mission 4. She has been actively involved in teaching both at the PhD level (Smart Materials for Biomedical Applications: Scaffolds and Sensors) and Master's level (Materials Engineering, Engineered Materials and Surfaces for Medical Applications) since at least 2019-2020. Her laboratory work is conducted within the Institute of Science and Engineering of Materials for Innovative Technologies (DISAT), specifically in the 3D Fabrication and Characterization of Functional (Bio)Materials Lab, Biomaterials Characterization Laboratory, and Advanced Electron Microscopy Laboratory.
Samuel David Alcaine is an Associate Professor in the Department of Food Science at Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS). His research focuses on improving food safety and quality through advancements in microbial fermentations, bacteriophage applications, and protective cultures/enzymes. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (2015), an M.S. from Cornell University (2007), and a B.S. from the University of Maryland (2002). Education: Doctorate: University of Massachusetts Amherst, 2015 Master of Science: Cornell University, 2007 Bachelor of Science: University of Maryland, 2002 Research Interests: Dr. Alcaine’s work addresses critical challenges in dairy product safety and innovation, including: Bacteriophage-based solutions for pathogen control in food systems Development of enzymatic methods to extend dairy product shelf life Novel applications for dairy fermentation byproducts Heat resistance of pathogens like avian influenza in raw milk Recent Publications Highlight: His 2025 study on influenza A H5N1 thermal inactivation in raw milk demonstrates the efficacy of pasteurization in mitigating pathogen risks, while 2023 work on fungal oil production from yogurt whey advances sustainable dairy processing. His research bridges microbial ecology with food engineering to enhance public health and industry practices.
Dr Arman Siahvashi is a Sydney Horizon Fellow (Lecturer) in the School of Aerospace, Mechanical, and Mechatronic Engineering at the University of Sydney, and an ARC DECRA Fellow. His research focuses on advanced cryogenics, hydrogen liquefaction, and clean energy systems. He holds a PhD in Chemical Process Engineering from the University of Western Australia (2019) and completed postdoctoral work at MIT’s HyTEC, supported by a Fulbright Scholarship. His expertise includes hydrogen storage, LNG production optimization, and cryogenic sensor technology. Key projects involve developing low-cost hydrogen liquefaction systems and novel catalysts for clean energy. He collaborates with NASA, JPL, and industry leaders like Chevron and ExxonMobil. Research interests span cryogenics, fluid thermodynamics, zero-emission aviation, and fusion energy. He leads the High-Efficiency Hydrogen Liquefaction project funded by the ARC DECRA (DE240100863). Awards: 2024 Australia National Measurement Institute Award, 2023 MIT Energy Initiative Award, 2021 WA Early Career Scientist of the Year. Labs/Institutes: Member of the Net Zero Institute and University of Sydney Nano Institute. Grants: ARC DECRA Fellowship, Nano Institute/Kickstarter-funded nanocatalyst project. He advises two PhD students and holds patents in hydrogen conversion and LNG sensor technology.
Martí Lecina Veciana is an Associate Professor at the IQS School of Engineering, part of Universitat Ramon Llull, and a member of the Bioengineering Department. He leads the Grup d'Enginyeria de Materials (Materials Engineering Group) and is involved in multiple research projects focusing on bioprocessing, cell culture technologies, and biomedical applications. His work spans extracellular vesicle engineering, virus-like particle production, and metabolic analysis in cell cultures. Key projects include the CERTERA consortium for advanced therapy drug development, VEG4COS for sustainable cosmetics using plant stem cells, and LUNGEVs targeting lung cancer treatment through extracellular vesicles. He also contributes to the GEMAT research group, exploring materials engineering applications in biotechnology. His research interests emphasize bioprocessing optimization, cell culture systems, and translating biotechnological innovations into clinical and industrial applications. His publications highlight advancements in freeze-drying methods for vesicles, non-viral production platforms, and metabolic flux analysis in bioreactor systems.
Lubana Al-Sayed is a Doctoral Researcher at the University of Hohenheim's Institute of Social Sciences in Agriculture, Department of Societal Transition and Agriculture, where she has been conducting research since 2016 under the Exceed project (DAAD & BMZ). Her academic background includes: B.Sc. in Food Technology Engineering from University of Aleppo, Syria (2004-2009) European Joint Master in Food Identity from institutions across France, Italy, Romania, and Spain (2013-2015), funded by Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Her research focuses on critical intersections between food systems and migration, specifically examining: Food-related well-being of refugees in crisis situations Refugees' roles as knowledge brokers in food networks Food justice and sustainable food systems for displaced populations Integration of food technology with social adaptation strategies Analysis of her publication record reveals a clear trajectory examining the psychological, social, and nutritional dimensions of food-related experiences among Syrian refugees in Germany. Her work bridges food science, migration studies, and social psychology to develop comprehensive frameworks for understanding refugee well-being through the lens of food practices and cultural identity. Her scientific recognition includes: Food Security Center award for doctoral research Erasmus Mundus Scholarship for Master's studies Lubana has actively contributed to the academic community through presentations at numerous international conferences on food history, migration studies, and sustainable food systems. Her professional network spans multiple European institutions, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of her work which combines technical food science expertise with social science methodologies to address complex humanitarian challenges.
Professor Mihaela CÂMPEAN is affiliated with the Department of Wood Processing and Design of Wood Products at the Faculty of Furniture Design and Wood Engineering , Transilvania University of Brașov. Her research focuses on wood drying technologies, heat treatment processes, and material science applications in forestry. She has contributed to advancing methods for lumber drying, veneer stabilization, and enhancing wood durability through thermal modification. Key research interests include: Optimizing industrial drying processes for oak and beech species Assessing heat treatment effects on machinability and dimensional stability Energy efficiency in frozen wood drying systems Development of sustainable wood processing techniques Her publications (2005–2023) emphasize experimental analysis of wood behavior under thermal and mechanical stress. Notable contributions include studies on thick lumber drying behavior, energy consumption in frozen spruce drying, and mechanical property changes post-heat treatment. No scientific awards or grants are explicitly listed in the provided materials. Lab/Team Affiliation: Active in wood science research groups within the Faculty of Furniture Design and Wood Engineering.
Szabolcs Pap is a Research Fellow at the Environmental Research Institute (ERI), University of the Highlands and Islands, United Kingdom. He serves as a teaching assistant at the University of Novi Sad, Serbia, and maintains active collaborations across Europe. His work bridges laboratory innovation with industrial implementation, focusing on water treatment technologies and nutrient recovery. PhD in Environmental Engineering (University of Novi Sad, 2017) Current Affiliation : UHI ERI, Inverness, UK Previous Affiliations : University of Novi Sad (teaching/research roles since 2015) Research spans adsorption technology for emerging contaminants , biochar synthesis from waste biomass, phosphorus recovery from wastewater, and industrial-scale water treatment solutions . Key innovations include Fe-oxide biochar nanocomposites , nature-based coagulants , and scale-up systems for distillery effluent treatment. Recent publications focus on 2024-2025 advancements in Phosphate recovery using biosolids biochar Comparative substrate analysis in constructed wetlands Fe-rich adsorbents for arsenate removal Lifecycle assessments of bio-coagulant production Scientific accolades include Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards - Innovation of the Year (2023) UHI Business Competition - Best Culture and Environment Award (2025) UHI Staff and Student Enterprise Competition prize (2025) He supervises PhD students and contributes to knowledge exchange activities, particularly through the Phos4You (P4Y) project and collaborations with Celtic Renewables Ltd. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for clean water and climate action.
Professor Abina Crean is a faculty member at the School of Pharmacy , University College Cork , Ireland. With a PhD in Pharmaceutics from Trinity College Dublin, she established a pharmaceutical technology research group at UCC in 2003 and leads projects in pharmaceutical manufacturing, formulation science, and biopharmaceutical delivery systems. BSc Pharmacy, Robert Gordon's University PhD Pharmaceutics, Trinity College Dublin Her research focuses on pharmaceutical excipients , solid oral dosage forms , microneedle systems , and oral bioavailability enhancement . She actively collaborates with pharmaceutical companies and contributes to SFI's SSPC (Science Foundation Ireland Pharmaceutical Research Centre). Recent publications analyze protein stability in microneedles , insulin degradation , excipient behavior , and continuous manufacturing . Her group explores biorelevant testing , quality-by-design strategies , and patient-centric formulations for children and elderly populations. Key collaborations include industry partnerships and academic contributions to European Journal of Pharmaceutics , Molecular Pharmaceutics , and Drug Delivery and Translational Research . She supervises PhD/MSc students in pharmaceutical technology and biopharmaceutical processing .
Benjamin Boesl is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at Florida International University (FIU). His research focuses on advanced materials engineering, including solid mechanics, fracture mechanics, and in situ mechanical testing. He investigates high strain rate material response, processing-structure-property relationships, and dynamic material behavior. His work emphasizes developing novel composites and nanomaterials with enhanced mechanical, thermal, and functional properties. Boesl's research includes the synthesis and characterization of ultra-high-temperature ceramics, carbide foams, and nanocomposites. He employs advanced techniques like in situ mechanical testing, computational modeling, and non-destructive evaluation to study material behavior under extreme conditions. His contributions span fields such as additive manufacturing, plasma spraying, and smart materials, with applications in aerospace, energy, and structural engineering. His recent work explores machine learning for predicting material degradation, bioinspired materials, and graphene-based composites. He has published extensively on topics like boron nitride nanostructures, cold-sprayed coatings, and spark plasma sintering. Boesl collaborates with industry partners through the Center for Excellence in Materials (CELL-MET) and the PATHS-UP Engineering Research Center, advancing translational research in materials science and engineering.
Alan Payne is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Molecular and Life Sciences (MLS) at Curtin University, within the Faculty of Science and Engineering. He also holds a portfolio role in the Office of the Provost. His research focuses on Organic Synthesis, Medicinal Chemistry, Agrochemicals, Natural product utilization, and Fundamental hydrocarbons. Payne has received notable awards, including the Curtin Student Guild Excellence in Teaching (2020, 2010) and the 2017 Mitsubishi Corporation Western Australian Innovator of the Year for his work on Ethylene Blockers with Prof. Zora Singh. His recent research includes advancements in truffle preservation, ethylene antagonist development, and antitumor compounds. His publications span studies on truffle aroma retention, antitumor agents targeting pediatric brain cancer, and ethylene inhibition in fruit storage. Collaborative projects highlight interdisciplinary approaches in drug discovery and agricultural chemistry. Awards and recognitions underscore his contributions to both research and teaching excellence. Research grants and industry partnerships further his work in postharvest technology and medicinal chemistry.
Ioannis V. Gentekakis is a Full Professor at the School of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, where he also serves as Director of the PCCP Laboratory. He holds a prominent academic position with extensive research leadership and teaching responsibilities in catalysis, electrochemistry, and environmental engineering. Technical University of Crete, School of Environmental Engineering – Full Professor (since 2001) University of Patras, Department of Chemical Engineering – Lecturer (1988–present, joint appointment) Managing Director, PCCP Laboratory – Technical University of Crete (2001–2020) Member, University Council – Technical University of Crete (2013–2017) His research spans heterogeneous catalysis, environmental catalysis, nanomaterials, CO₂ recycling, hydrogen and biogas valorization, and electrochemical promotion (NEMCA). He investigates catalyst design, stability, and reactor engineering for sustainable energy and pollution control. His work integrates experimental and computational approaches to develop advanced catalytic systems for clean fuel production and emissions abatement. The trend in his recent publications shows a strong focus on CO₂ conversion technologies (methanation, dry reforming), supported noble metal catalysts (Rh, Ir, Ru), perovskite materials, and nanostructured supports. His work emphasizes catalyst stability, selectivity, and resistance to sintering and carbon deposition, aligning with industrial and environmental sustainability goals. His scientific awards and editorial roles highlight his leadership in the catalysis community: Section Editor-in-Chief, Nanomaterials (IF: 5.076) Specialty Chief-Editor, Frontiers in Environmental Chemistry: Catalytic Remediation Editorial Board Member of 8 international journals Guest Editor for multiple special issues in Catalysts and Nanomaterials President/Organizer of the 16th Panhellenic Symposium on Catalysis Plenary Lecturer and Honored Member at the 6th International Conference on Environmental Chemistry and Engineering (2017) Invited Editor, Springer-Nature Book on Electrochemistry and Catalysis Prof. Gentekakis has supervised multiple doctoral candidates and leads several major research projects, including: Eco-Bio-H₂-FCs (2020–2023): Pilot-scale H₂ and power production from biogas (€1M budget) CatEfDeNOX (2019–2022): Development of catalysts for automotive De-NOX (Greek-Chinese collaboration) ECO-ETHYLENE (2018–2021): Innovative biogas and CO₂ utilization to ethylene (€1M budget) Postdoctoral Research Fellowship on CO₂ management via conversion to upgraded chemicals He is actively involved in laboratory research through the PCCP Lab and collaborates with an international network of researchers. His team focuses on developing innovative catalytic processes for energy and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Francisco Trujillo is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Chemical Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). His research focuses on advancing multiphysics systems for food processing, water treatment, and sustainable technologies. He has expertise in ultrasonics, radio frequency (RF) plasma, membrane technologies, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). His work addresses challenges in food safety, environmental sustainability, and industrial efficiency. Education: PhD in Chemical Engineering (UNSW, 2004), M.A.Sc. (National University of Colombia, 2000), B.Eng. (National University of Colombia, 1996). Research Interests : Ultrasonic processing for food and liquid separation RF plasma and electrolysis for water detoxification CFD modeling of complex multiphase systems Non-thermal food preservation technologies Membrane fouling control via ultrasonic vibrations Current projects include synergistic plasma-ultrasound water treatment, RF electric fields for food sterilization, and novel freeze-drying techniques. His work bridges engineering principles with practical industrial applications, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.
Professor Vaios Karathanos is a faculty member at Harokopio University since 2004, specializing in Physical Chemistry and Food Engineering. He teaches courses in Food Chemistry, Food Physical Chemistry, and Thermodynamics, while also contributing to postgraduate programs at other institutions. His research focuses on food process design (e.g., air drying, freeze drying), physical properties of foods, encapsulation techniques, and nutritional evaluation of fruits and starch products. Notably, he has extensively studied Greek export products like Corinthian raisins and legumes. Prior to academia, he worked in the Food Industry in Greece and the USA from 1990 to 2000. Education: He earned a Diploma in Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens (1984), followed by an M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Food Science from Rutgers University (1988-1990). His research has been funded by national/EU grants and industry, overseeing over 30 projects with an 8 M€ budget. He has supervised 7 completed PhD theses and contributed to 4 others. Research highlights include green extraction methods, rheological modeling of food pastes, and the health impacts of functional foods. His work spans food technology, nutritional science, and sustainable agriculture, with a strong emphasis on applying scientific insights to improve food quality and human health.
Professor Pawan Singh Takhar holds dual appointments in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition and the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. His research bridges food engineering principles with biological material science. His research focuses on moisture transport phenomena , glass transition in food systems, and pore-scale modeling of food microstructures. Key areas include frying technology, drying processes, and antimicrobial treatments using advanced computational methods. His work combines hybrid mixture theory with experimental validation through techniques like X-ray microtomography and NMR imaging. Analysis of his 76 research outputs reveals strong emphasis on food microstructure characterization (52% fingerprint weight), transport mechanisms (49%), and moisture dynamics (58%). His recent publications demonstrate increasing integration of computational modeling with experimental food engineering, particularly in pore-scale antimicrobial gas flow and real-time deformation monitoring during drying processes. Professor Takhar collaborates extensively with researchers across food safety, flavor chemistry, and agricultural engineering domains. His work has significant implications for improving food preservation techniques, reducing oil content in fried foods, and developing non-destructive quality assessment methods.
