Dr. Laura Maye is a Lecturer at the School of Computer Science and Information Technology, University College Cork. Her research specializes in Interactive Media and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), focusing on participatory design methods and immersive technologies. Key research interests include virtual reality applications, co-design methodologies for cultural heritage, community-centered technology development, and sensory interaction studies. Her work emphasizes inclusive design and socio-ecological relationships in technology. Recent publications (2020-2025) demonstrate strong trends in VR-based sensory studies, community radio innovations, and rehabilitation technology. Articles frequently employ mixed-methods approaches and highlight cross-modal perception, participatory frameworks, and rural HCI challenges.
Bishnu Acharya serves as an Associate Professor and Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture Chair in Bioprocess Engineering within the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan. His research program focuses on sustainable conversion of agricultural biomass into high-value products through advanced bioprocessing techniques, addressing critical environmental and energy challenges. His primary research domains include: Cellulose-based biomaterials and nanocomposites for biomedical and packaging applications Thermochemical conversion (pyrolysis, gasification) and biochemical processing of agricultural residues Engineered biochar systems for wastewater remediation and soil enhancement Integration of remote sensing and machine learning for precision agriculture optimization Development of biodegradable materials from flax, wheat straw, and camelina meal Analysis of his 2024-2025 publications reveals a strong interdisciplinary trajectory bridging chemical engineering, environmental science, and agricultural technology. Key thematic clusters involve circular economy implementation in biomass valorization, nanocellulose-based advanced material development, and sustainable wastewater treatment solutions. His work consistently emphasizes practical applications for Canadian agricultural systems, particularly in Saskatchewan and Prince Edward Island contexts. Professional Recognition: Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture Chair in Bioprocess Engineering While specific grant details are not publicly enumerated in available materials, Dr. Acharya's prolific output across high-impact journals indicates substantial research funding and active supervision of graduate students. His collaborations span environmental remediation, advanced materials development, and sustainable agricultural technologies, reflecting a systems-thinking approach to bioresource management. Laboratory infrastructure likely includes biomass processing units, nanomaterial characterization facilities, and bioreactor systems supporting his diverse research portfolio.
Dr. Uwe Grünefeld is a Visiting Professor at the Faculty of Computer Science , Institute for Computer Science and Business Information Systems (ICB) of the University of Duisburg-Essen. He has been actively contributing to Human-Computer Interaction research through multiple publications in 2025-2022 focusing on Virtual Reality , Augmented Reality , and Robotics . Research Interests span across immersive technology applications for health behavior change (situated artifacts, weight visualization mirrors), haptic feedback systems (EMS for weight perception, vibrotactile directional cues), and behavioral biometrics (hand tracking identification, gaze-based user recognition). His work addresses cross-reality system design , collaborative robotics , and human-in-the-loop simulation methodologies . Key Publications demonstrate significant contributions to VR/AR user engagement, with particular focus on Physical activity promotion through situated artifacts Advanced haptic feedback techniques for immersive environments Behavioral biometric identification systems Robot motion intent communication Cross-reality transition visualization His research often employs mixed-method approaches combining technical implementations with user studies involving quantitative and qualitative data collection.
Dr. Aida Haghighi is an Assistant Professor at the School of Occupational and Public Health, Toronto Metropolitan University. She holds a PhD from Polytechnique Montréal, with prior industrial experience at the National Gas Company. Her research focuses on occupational health and safety (OHS) management systems, Industry 4.0 integration, and risk mitigation strategies. She teaches courses like OHS 718: Systems Management and OHS 811: OHSE Management Systems. Education: BSc, MSc, PhD in Industrial Engineering from Iran and Canada. Professional Engineer (PEng) designation. Research highlights include developing assessment tools to prevent machine safeguard bypassing and analyzing Industry 4.0's impact on worker safety. Research Interests: Industrial safety systems, OHS risk management, integrated management systems, and continual improvement. Current projects explore emerging technologies in OHS frameworks and gender disparities in workplace health. Awards include the Best Doctoral Thesis (2020, Polytechnique Montréal) and NSERC-funded research abroad. She advises MSc students in Occupational and Public Health starting 2025-2026. Teaching and Grants: Active in curriculum development for OHS education. Collaborates on projects funded by industry partnerships and governmental grants focusing on safety innovation.
Yeyin Shi is an Associate Professor and Agricultural Intelligence Engineer at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Biological Systems Engineering. His research focuses on applying artificial intelligence and remote sensing technologies to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. He teaches courses such as AGST 316: Technologies and Techniques for Digital Agriculture and AGEN/AGRO/AGST 431/892: Site-Specific Crop Management. He holds a Ph.D. in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering from Oklahoma State University (2014), an M.S. (2010), and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Nanjing Forestry University (2007). Research Interests: Agricultural data generation/analysis, remote sensing systems (satellite/UAV-based), crop stress sensing, precision crop management, and high-throughput phenotyping. His work bridges machine learning, robotics, and agronomy to address challenges in sustainable farming practices. Recent projects include maize tassel detection via deep learning, UAV-based weed detection, and nitrogen stress indices for maize using hyperspectral imagery. Awards: ASABE Outstanding Manuscript Reviewer (2015), 1st Place Postdoc Research Poster (2015), 2nd Place Student Robotic Competition (2012) Grants: Active collaborations on USDA-funded projects for precision agriculture and phenotyping Labs/Teams: Leads the Agricultural Intelligence Research Group at UNL, focusing on AI-driven agricultural solutions His research emphasizes scalable solutions through edge computing and cloud-based frameworks for irrigation scheduling and crop monitoring, aiming to optimize resource use in both row crops and livestock systems.
Dr. Souran Chatterjee is a Lecturer in Energy Transitions - Environmental Management & Sustainability at the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 11 (Sustainable Cities), and 13 (Climate Action). He focuses on energy transitions, climate policy modeling, and socio-technical systems analysis. Research interests include energy demand modeling, renewable energy integration, climate emergency responses, and SDG-climate synergies. He has advised undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations in energy economics, air pollution assessment, and health-environmental impact analysis. His recent work emphasizes net-zero building sectors, decarbonization pathways, and demand-side solutions for energy efficiency. He collaborates on projects like the Sustainable Energy Transitions Laboratory (SENTINEL) and EU initiatives like the Solar Rooftop Program. Teaching focuses on energy sustainability, social science research methods, and health economics. Key geographic interests include Europe (especially Italy's urban policies), South Asia (India's air quality challenges), and global south development dynamics. His toolkit expertise includes geospatial modeling, building energy simulation, and socio-technical transition analysis.
Leonie Gaiser is a Lecturer in Intercultural Communication at the Department of Modern Languages and Cultures, University of Manchester. Her research focuses on urban multilingualism, heritage language maintenance, and micro-level language policy, employing ethnographic methodologies. Before her current role, she held a Postdoctoral Research Associate position (2014–2021) on the Multilingual Manchester Project, studying linguistic landscapes, supplementary schools, and healthcare language provisions. She earned a PhD (2021), MA (2016), and BA (2014) from The University of Manchester and Universität Augsburg, Germany. Education: Doctor of Philosophy, The University of Manchester (2021) Master of Arts in Linguistics, The University of Manchester (2016) Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies; German as a Foreign Language, Universität Augsburg (2014) Research Interests: Dr. Gaiser’s work explores the intersection of language, identity, and policy in urban settings, particularly among diaspora communities. Her studies on Arabic in Manchester challenge traditional notions of ‘language’ and ‘community,’ emphasizing dynamic, lived experiences. She also investigates linguistic diversity in healthcare and education, advocating for inclusive language policies. Publications Trends: Her recent articles focus on multilingual healthcare communication, supplementary schools in diaspora communities, and methodological innovations like the LinguaSnapp mobile app. These works highlight the interplay between policy, practice, and identity in multilingual cities. Awards: Making a Difference Award 2018 (Commended) Advising & Grants: Supervised her own PhD on Arabic language practices in Manchester. Co-organized multidisciplinary events like the Multilingual Science Outreach series and contributed to policy-oriented research projects. Labs/Teams: Active in the Multilingual Manchester Project and affiliated with research beacons Creative Manchester and Healthier Futures at the University of Manchester.
Professor Roger Woods is a prominent academic and researcher affiliated with Queen's University Belfast's School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, part of the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences. He holds the rank of Professor and is actively involved in advancing research and innovation in embedded systems, FPGA technologies, and AI-driven solutions for industry challenges. His work emphasizes practical applications through close collaboration with industry partners. His research interests span novel computing architectures (e.g., multi-precision and edge computing), FPGA-based systems for data analytics, and secure IoT communication protocols. Notably, he co-founded and serves as Chief Scientist of Analytics Engines Ltd, a data analytics company. He has led significant initiatives like the Kelvin-2 Tier-4 High Performance Computing centre and contributed to semiconductor reviews through EFutures. Professor Woods has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the IET Northern Ireland Engineering Excellence Award and IEEE Fellowship. He has supervised numerous PhD students focusing on topics like FPGA-based image processing, secure wireless communications, and embedded AI platforms. His publications reflect interdisciplinary strengths in hardware acceleration, physical layer security, and structural health monitoring. Key Collaborations : Projects with industry and institutions on semiconductor design, bridge monitoring, and AI hardware. Grants : Principal Investigator for multiple research grants, including Core Equipment Awards for advanced instrumentation. Labs/Teams : Active in Queen's Advanced MicroEngineering Centre and the EFutures network.
Emily Callander is a Professor of Women’s Health Economics at the Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, and Head of Discipline in Health Services Management at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). She leads the Women’s Economics and Value Based Care research program and holds leadership roles in national health policy, including as Vice President of Women's Healthcare Australasia and member of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee Economics Subcommittee. BA in Economics and Policy, Griffith University PhD in Health Economics, University of Sydney Postdoctoral training at NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney Her research focuses on maternal and women's health, utilizing linked administrative data, economic evaluation, and modelled analysis to influence health policy and delivery. Her work spans efficient staffing models, rural health access, national maternity initiatives (e.g., Safer Baby Bundle, Normal Birth Strategy), and cost analyses for global maternal health programs supported by the Gates Foundation. Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in health economic evaluations of maternity care models, medication use in pregnancy, digital health implementation, and preterm birth prevention. These works emphasize real-world applicability, equity, and cost-effectiveness, aligning with her mission to embed economic evidence into health systems. She has been supported by prestigious NHMRC awards, including a Doctoral Scholarship, Early Career Fellowship, and Career Development Fellowship. Her scientific contributions are recognized through active research projects and expert media commentary on maternity care policy. NHMRC Doctoral Scholarship NHMRC Early Career Fellowship NHMRC Career Development Fellowship Emily Callander advises on multiple national and international research projects, often as Chief or Associate Investigator, and collaborates with institutions such as Coventry University. She is actively accepting PhD students and contributes to policy through advisory roles in government and non-profit organizations. Her research is supported by grants from NHMRC, government departments, and international foundations. She leads the Women’s Economics and Value Based Care program at Monash and is a key member of the Transforming Maternity Care Collaborative. Her work is embedded in real-world health systems, partnering with consumers, providers, and policymakers to improve women’s health outcomes globally.
Emma Dunlop is a Research Fellow at the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS), University of Strathclyde, within the Faculty of Science. She has been part of the Pharmacoepidemiology & Healthcare Research Group (PEHCR) since 2010, specializing in qualitative research methods with a focus on patient-centered healthcare applications. Her educational background includes: Honours degree in Psychology, University of Strathclyde (2009) MPhil, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (2024) Post Graduate Certificate in Knowledge Exchange, University of Strathclyde COSCA qualification in Counselling Skills, Napier University Dunlop's research centers on patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) in cancer care, digital health innovation, and improving services for vulnerable populations including refugees, prison populations, and individuals with mental health conditions. Her work emphasizes patient and public involvement (PPI) in research design and implementation, particularly through qualitative methodologies. Her 2025 publications reveal a strong thematic focus on pharmacy practice transformation, with recurring exploration of stigma reduction in substance dependency treatment, preceptorship program development for advanced pharmacy practice, and systematic implementation of PROMs in Scottish cancer care pathways. Scientific recognition includes: SIPBS Athena Swan Researchers' Prize (2019) Scottish Pharmacist Award for Innovation & Change in Pharmacy Practice (2015) She has supervised MPharm, MSc, and PhD students while securing significant funding from Scottish Government, NHS Scotland, Public Health Scotland, and industry partners including Boots PLC. Major projects include the Cancer Medicines Outcomes Programme (CMOP-PHS) and the Macmillan Rural Palliative Care Pharmacist Practitioner Project. Dunlop co-chairs the Scottish Cancer PROMs Advisory Group and leads the STRATHLab organizational unit, driving collaborative initiatives between academia, NHS, government bodies, and community stakeholders.
Dr. Gemma Griffith is a Reader in Psychology at Bangor University 's School of Psychology and Sports Science . She co-directs the Centre for Mindfulness Research and Practice (CMRP) and leads its postgraduate programs. Griffith has published over 40 peer-reviewed articles and co-authored/edited two books on mindfulness teaching. PGDip in Teaching Mindfulness (Bangor University, 2015) PhD in Parental Adjustment (Bangor University, 2010) MSc in Applied Behavior Analysis (Bangor University, 2006) BSc in Psychology (Bangor University, 2004) Her research focuses on mindfulness-based interventions for parents and individuals with intellectual disabilities , exploring connections between child behavior problems and maternal well-being. She developed the Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Teaching and Learning Companion (TLC) , a globally used reflective tool for mindfulness educators. Recent projects include adapting mindfulness training for exercise referral practitioners and studying linguistic markers in online mindfulness discourse. Griffith has presented at international conferences in Japan, China, and online platforms, discussing mindfulness applications for diverse populations. She serves as an external examiner for the University of Exeter (2016-2020) and organizes academic events like the International Mindfulness Summit . Her work emphasizes practical implementation in schools, clinical settings, and family systems.
Julie Q. Morrison is a Professor in the School Psychology Program, focusing on evaluating universal and targeted interventions to address academic and behavioral needs of school-age children and youth, with a strong emphasis on program evaluation. Her research spans Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) , literacy education , and behavioral interventions . Recent publications analyze cost-effectiveness of dyslexia programs, self-monitoring tools for early literacy, and accessibility strategies for English learners. The 15 most recent articles (2015–2021) reflect trends in educational technology (e.g., iPad-based interventions), behavioral regulation (e.g., mobile device use in classrooms), and systematic program evaluation for accountability and scalability. As Principal Investigator (PI), Morrison has secured multiple grants from the Ohio Department of Education and Federal agencies (2007–2023), including funding for the Dyslexia Pilot Project and State Personnel Development Grants (SPDG) to improve educational outcomes.
Dr. Ronald van Steden is Associate Professor in Public Administration and Political Science at the Faculty of Social Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and Senior Researcher at the Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR). His work bridges academic research and practical governance in the field of security, with a strong focus on policing, public order, and citizen participation. His research interests include community policing, restorative justice, private and plural policing, municipal law enforcement, citizen-centric safety initiatives, and the moral and philosophical dimensions of security governance. He employs qualitative social science methods and action research to explore the normative and operational challenges in contemporary policing. The trends in his recent publications reflect a deep engagement with collaborative governance, boundary-spanning in local security, evidence-based policing, and the ethical implications of restorative and preventive practices. His work increasingly addresses digital citizen initiatives, such as WhatsApp-based neighborhood surveillance, and the existential underpinnings of public administration. Van Steden serves as Editor of Tijdschrift voor de Politie (Police Magazine) and is a board member of the Christian Social Congress, contributing to both scholarly and public discourse on policing and morality. He teaches in the master’s program Governance of Security at VU, where he leads the course Samenwerking in Veiligheid (Cooperation in Security), and supervises master’s theses. He has also supervised two PhD theses. His research is supported by projects such as Online Blauw , which investigates digital crime handling at police basic teams. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to peace, justice, and strong institutions, particularly through enhancing accountability, inclusivity, and ethical governance in law enforcement.
Greg Wright is an Associate Professor of Economics at the University of California, Merced , affiliated with the School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts and Social Sciences & Management department. He also holds a Non-Resident Senior Fellow position at Brookings . His research focuses on International Trade , Immigration Economics , and Economic Growth , with particular emphasis on: Labor market responses to globalization Immigration's role in economic development ICT's impact on income distribution Trade liberalization effects Workforce planning for energy transitions Policy tools for urban economic growth Recent publications analyze the second wave of globalization's local incidence, immigrant workforce support for U.S. jobs, and workforce development programs' optimization. His work appears in journals like Journal of International Economics , European Economic Review , and American Economic Review . Wright earned his PhD in Economics (2011), MA in Economics (2006) from UC Davis, and BA in Astrophysics (1998) from UC Berkeley. He explores intersections between immigration, offshoring, and technological change through empirical studies and policy analysis.
Dr. Marc Ph. Stoecklin is a Principal Research Staff Member and head of the Security Research Department at IBM Research Europe in Zurich, Switzerland. He co-leads IBM's global research strategy on Quantum Safe Cryptography and Migration, focusing on cryptographic artifact identification and migration implementation. Previously, he directed Threat Management research, applying AI and automation to threat detection, investigation, and response. Education: PhD in Computer, Communication and Information Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland His research spans quantum safe cryptography, threat management, AI security, threat detection, identity management, cyber deception, big data analytics, and security visualization. He pioneered AI-powered security operations, contributing to Watson for Cyber Security and QRadar Advisor with Watson, and analyzes AI/quantum computing misuse in cyber attacks. His 2016-2020 publications emphasize advanced threat detection, malware analysis, and AI security, featuring evasive malware deactivation, threat intelligence computing, and neural network watermarking. These works bridge research and product development, directly influencing IBM security offerings. Dr. Stoecklin led IBM's Cognitive Cyber Security Intelligence group (2014-2019) and the Security Research Department since 2019. As tech lead for IBM's COVID-19 task force (2020-2022), he developed IBM Digital Health Pass, deployed in New York's Excelsior Pass with over 1 million passes issued in two months. He heads the Security Research Department at IBM Research Europe in Zurich and has been integral to the Global Security Analysis Lab (GSAL) and Cognitive Cyber Security Intelligence (CCSI) group at IBM T.J. Watson Research Center.
