Find Academic Supervisors

• Mass Spectrometry
• Chemical Ecology
• Analytical Chemistry
• +5 more

Athula Attygalle is an Adjunct Research Professor at Stevens Institute of Technology’s Charles V. Schaefer, Jr. School of Engineering and Science, Department of Chemistry. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Keele (1983), MS in Biochemistry from the University of Sri Lanka (1977), and BS in Chemistry from the University of Ceylon (1975). His research focuses on mass spectrometry, chemical ecology, and natural products analysis, particularly investigating gas-phase ion chemistry, defensive secretions of arthropods, and analytical method development. Key research interests include mass spectrometric ion fragmentations, bioanalytical techniques, chromatography, and chemical communication in insects. His work bridges fundamental analytical chemistry with applications in environmental, biomedical, and ecological contexts. Notable contributions include studies on defensive chemistry in beetles, helium plasma ionization (HePI-MS), and ambient mass spectrometric methods. Dr. Attygalle has received prestigious awards such as the UNESCO Fellowship (1979), Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowship (1984), and Edwina Mountbatten Award (1982). He actively participates in professional societies like the American Society for Mass Spectrometry and Royal Society of Chemistry. His grants include NSF-funded research on phorid parasitoid chemical ecology (2011–2014) and collaborative studies on carabid beetle defensive chemistry. He has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and holds multiple patents related to insect deterrent compounds and analytical instrumentation. His labs specialize in mass spectrometry innovation, including desorption ionization by charge exchange (DICE) and HePI-MS for trace analysis.

Ben WarrenView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Mechanotransduction
• Auditory Neuroscience
• Insect Hearing
• +2 more

Dr. Ben Warren is a Senior Lecturer in Neuroscience at Keele University and Royal Society University Research Fellow. He leads the Warren Lab studying insect auditory mechanisms at Keele and Leicester universities. Research focuses on mechanotransduction channel identification in locust ears, physiological basis of hearing loss in insects, and comparative auditory neuroscience. Models include desert locusts, fruit flies and mosquitoes. Techniques include electrophysiology, Doppler laser vibrometry, confocal/EM microscopy, and single-nuclei RNA sequencing. Funded by Royal Society, Leverhulme Trust and Human Frontiers Science Program. Current projects investigate auditory channel biophysics and noise/age-related auditory decline. Recent publication examines sex differences in locust auditory function (2025). Leads a research team with postdoctoral fellows and PhD students. Hosts collaborative opportunities through HFSP and Feodor Lynen fellowships.

Susan SealView profile

Professor

• Molecular Biology
• Plant Pathology
• Tropical Agriculture
• +5 more

Professor Susan Seal is a Professor of Molecular Biology and Principal Scientist at the Natural Resources Institute (NRI), part of the University of Greenwich's Faculty of Engineering and Science. She holds the additional role of Postgraduate Studies Lead at NRI. Her career spans over three decades, beginning with a BSc in Microbiology from Imperial College (1984) and a PhD in molecular biology from the University of Bath (1987), focusing on plant pathogen genetics. She has extensive postdoctoral experience, including developing DNA-based diagnostics for tropical plant pathogens at The Sainsbury Laboratory. Since joining NRI in 1992, she has led molecular diagnostic laboratories, established overseas labs in developing countries, and taught MSc courses in molecular diagnostics, plant pathology, and GM crops. Her research group, the Molecular Virology and Entomology Research Group at NRI, focuses on applied and strategic research to control pests and diseases of tropical food crops, particularly cassava, sweet potato, yams, and vegetables. These crops are critical to food security and economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa. Her work emphasizes molecular diagnostics, whitefly species complexes, virus management, and sustainable agricultural practices. She has pioneered rapid diagnostic tools like RT-RPA and RT-LAMP for detecting plant viruses and contributed to understanding the genetic basis of whitefly pest behavior and vector competence. Her research spans genomic analysis of pest species, host-plant interactions, and the epidemiology of plant diseases affecting tropical crops. She collaborates globally to address agricultural challenges in developing nations, with a focus on improving diagnostic capacity and mitigating vector-borne pandemics. Her teaching and lab leadership have trained numerous scientists in molecular techniques critical for agricultural research.

Guillaume J. BilodeauView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Plant Pathology
• Genomics
• Metagenomics
• +3 more

Guillaume J. Bilodeau is an Adjunct Research Professor in the Department of Biology at Carleton University, affiliated with the Faculty of Science. He works as a research scientist at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in the Ottawa Plant Laboratory (OPL), leading the Pathogen Identification Research Laboratory (PIRL). His research focuses on developing genomic and molecular tools for detecting plant pathogens and pests, with expertise in fungi, oomycetes, and nematodes. Education: Bilodeau holds a B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. from Laval University. Research Interests: His work centers on genomics, metagenomics, and bioinformatics to enhance pathogen detection. Key areas include molecular diagnostics for plant pests, high-throughput sequencing (HTS) for pathogen genome analysis, and metagenomic screening of environmental samples. He also develops bioinformatics pipelines to analyze sequencing data, aiding in regulatory efforts to control invasive species. Articles: His recent publications explore metabarcoding for pathogen detection in pollen, metagenomic screening of forest pathogens, and genomic tools for surveillance of non-native insects. Projects emphasize big data and HTS technologies in regulatory and diagnostic contexts. Labs/Teams: He leads the Pathogen Identification Research Laboratory (PIRL) at CFIA, focusing on molecular biology and plant pathology. The lab collaborates on bioinformatics and genomics projects to support plant health regulations.

Martin B. BergView profile

Professor

• Aquatic Ecology
• Invasive Species Impact
• Freshwater Ecosystems
• +3 more

Martin B. Berg, PhD, is a Professor of Biology at Loyola University Chicago, affiliated with the School of Environmental Sustainability. He holds a PhD from the University of Notre Dame (1990) and specializes in aquatic ecology, particularly focusing on the role of aquatic insects in energy flow and invasive species impacts in freshwater ecosystems. His research emphasizes the understudied Chironomidae family (non-biting midges) and the effects of invasive species like zebra mussels and round gobies on Great Lakes food webs. Berg's work bridges basic and applied ecological questions, examining how invasive species alter energy dynamics and toxin mobilization. He has contributed to seminal textbooks, such as the 4th edition of An Introduction to the Aquatic Insects of North America , and has published extensively on topics like chironomid ecology, bioassessment strategies, and toxicant impacts in aquatic systems. His research also explores salmon-derived nutrient influences in Alaskan streams and the ecological consequences of biological control methods. Berg's articles reflect a focus on invasive species, benthic community dynamics, and statistical methodologies in ecological research. His contributions to aquatic entomology and environmental assessment highlight interdisciplinary approaches to understanding ecosystem health and human impacts. His advising and grants sections remain unspecified in available texts, though his lab and team activities are not detailed here. He maintains an active research program at Loyola, contributing to both local and global aquatic conservation efforts.

Jurian HOOGEWERFFView profile

Associate Professor

• Forensic Geochemistry
• Microplastics Analysis
• Environmental Geochemistry
• +5 more

Jurian Hoogewerff is an Associate Professor in Systems Ecology at the University of Canberra's Faculty of Science and Technology. He holds a PhD in geochemistry and volcanology from Utrecht University and has held roles at institutions including the University of Maastricht, University of Otago, and the Institute of Food Research. His research focuses on forensic and environmental geochemistry, including microplastic analysis, ecoacoustics, and isotope tracing. Education: PhD: Isotope and trace element systematics of Eastern Indonesian Volcanoes, Utrecht University (1999) M.Sc.: Petrologie, Geochemie en gasholten van de puimsteen van Yali, Utrecht University (1989) Current research emphasizes developing methods for microplastic analysis in water/sediments, acoustic monitoring of insect activity, and geographical origin tracing of materials. He leads the Systems Ecology Capability with 20+ staff and manages an analytical laboratory. His work aligns with UN SDGs related to environmental protection and education. He has contributed to over 80 publications and actively participates in forensic casework. Recent projects include the Murrumbidgee Catchment Microplastics study and InFoDust counter-terrorism research. Teaching includes environmental geochemistry and forensic chemistry courses.

• Nematode-plant interactions
• Bioinformatics
• Plant transformation
• +3 more

John Fosu-Nyarko is a Lecturer at Murdoch University's College of Environmental and Life Sciences, affiliated with the School of Agricultural Sciences and Centre for Crop and Food Innovation. As an agricultural biotechnologist, he researches plant-nematode interactions and develops genetic solutions for crop protection. Education includes: Bachelor of Science with Honours from University of Ghana Doctor of Philosophy from Murdoch University Fellow of the Higher Education Academy Research focuses on molecular mechanisms of plant-nematode relationships, employing next-generation sequencing, plant transformation, and gene editing technologies to enhance crop resilience against parasitic nematodes. His work has applications in sustainable agriculture and food security.

• 3D Computer Vision
• Machine Learning
• Computer Graphics
• +3 more

Professor Hamid Laga leads research in computer vision and machine learning at Murdoch University's School of Information Technology, with cross-disciplinary applications in agriculture, biosecurity, and health. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from Tokyo Institute of Technology and serves as Professor of Information Technology. His work integrates the College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and the Centre for Biosecurity and One Health. Laga's research spans fundamental algorithms in 3D shape analysis and cutting-edge applications of deep learning. Core technical innovations include geometric processing of botanical structures, neural field representations, and weakly-supervised 3D reconstruction methods. Applied research focuses on agricultural technology solutions for disease detection in crops, weed classification systems, and insect phenotyping tools. Recent publications demonstrate significant advancement in generative AI techniques for 4D shape representation, quantum neural networks, and transformer-based agricultural vision systems. His scholarly output consistently bridges theoretical computer science with practical applications in environmental and biological domains.

Rolf W. MathewesView profile

Professor

• Paleoecology
• Palynology
• Climate Change and Vegetation Dynamics
• +4 more

Rolf W. Mathewes is a Professor of Paleoecology & Palynology in the Department of Biological Sciences at Simon Fraser University. He specializes in reconstructing past environmental changes using pollen, plant macrofossils, and radiocarbon dating, focusing on western Canada. His research bridges biology, earth sciences, and archaeology, addressing climate change impacts on forests, wetlands, and postglacial vegetation dynamics. Notable projects include studies on Haida Gwaii's Pleistocene ecosystems, Eocene flora of the Okanagan Highlands, and forensic botany applications. Educated at SFU (BSc) and UBC (PhD), he collaborates with earth scientists and forensic researchers. His work supports interdisciplinary fields like climate modeling, resource management, and legal investigations. Recent studies include postglacial forest histories, mammoth steppe collapses, and archaeological site analyses in Yukon and British Columbia. Lab facilities (B8236/B9227) facilitate pollen analysis and fossil studies. Research outputs span over 130+ publications, with emphasis on Eocene insects, Pleistocene mammal diets, and Holocene fire regimes. Awards and recognitions are currently unspecified, though contributions to paleoenvironmental methodologies are prominent.

Sydney EverhartView profile

Associate Professor

• Plant Pathology
• Molecular Genetics
• Fungal Biology
• +4 more

Sydney Everhart is an Associate Professor and Department Head in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at the University of Connecticut. She holds a PhD in Plant Pathology from the University of Georgia (2012), an MS in Biology (Ecology) from the University of Central Missouri (2007), and a BS in Biology from the University of Iowa (2005). Her research focuses on fungal plant pathogens, particularly their molecular biology, epidemiology, and management strategies in agricultural systems. She leads a lab investigating pathogens like Sclerotinia sclerotiorum , Rhizoctonia solani , and Alternaria brassicicola , with an emphasis on fungicide resistance and disease control. Everhart has secured over $6M in grants as PI/co-PI and published over 20 papers in high-impact journals. She teaches a graduate course on professional development ( Success in the Sciences ) and advises four graduate students (3 PhD, 1 MS). Her administrative role as Department Head ensures faculty, staff, and student success across teaching, research, and Extension missions. Her lab collaborates widely, with projects funded by USDA, state soybean boards, and international partners. Recent research highlights include studies on fungicide sensitivity of Sclerotinia and Rhizoctonia isolates, population genetics of plant pathogens, and leadership development in agricultural sciences. She has mentored postdocs and undergraduate researchers, contributing to both scientific innovation and STEM workforce training.

Julia KuzovkinaView profile

Professor

• Salix (Willow)
• Ecological Restoration
• Native Plants
• +3 more

Julia Kuzovkina is the Interim Department Head and Professor of Horticulture at the University of Connecticut. Her research focuses on the genus Salix (willow), ecological restoration, and native plant applications. She holds a PhD in Horticulture from Ohio State University (2003), and MS/BS in Botany from Moscow State University (1990/1988). Her teaching includes courses such as Urban Plant Systems, Herbaceous Ornamental Plants, and Indoor Plants and Interiorscaping. She leads the Global Cultivation of Willows initiative and chairs the FAO’s International Poplar Commission Working Party on Taxonomy and Nomenclature. She serves as the International Cultivar Registration Authority for Populus and Salix. Key research themes include willow taxonomy, phytoremediation potential, and sustainable roadside vegetation. She collaborates internationally on Salix cultivar databases and ecological engineering projects. Her work bridges academic research, policy, and practical applications in environmental restoration.

Jari HaimiView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Soil Ecology
• +4 more

Jari Haimi is a Senior University Lecturer and Docent at the Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Jyväskylä. His career has been deeply rooted in ecological research, particularly focusing on soil decomposers, decomposition processes, and invertebrates. Retiring at year-end 2024, he transitions to emeritus status while continuing research and outdoor observations. **Education & Background:** Though specific academic degrees are not listed, his career path reflects expertise cultivated through lifelong engagement with nature. Born in Kuusankoski’s Voikkaa, his early passion for insects (e.g., butterflies) and ecological documentation shaped his professional trajectory. **Research Interests:** His work emphasizes: Soil decomposer ecology Decomposition dynamics Invertebrate biodiversity Ecological research methodologies He integrates species identification and nature knowledge into teaching, maintaining a strong connection to environmental sciences. **Awards & Grants:** No explicit awards or grants mentioned in provided texts. **Advising & Mentoring:** No formal student advisees or grant details specified; however, his teaching role suggests involvement in academic guidance. **Labs/Teams:** Not explicitly detailed, but his affiliation with the Department of Biological and Environmental Science implies participation in related research groups.

David HearnView profile

Associate Professor

• Plant Evolutionary Biology
• Developmental Botany
• Computational Morphometrics
• +1 more

David Hearn is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Towson University. His research investigates evolutionary, developmental, and ecological mechanisms driving land plant diversity, with specialization in succulent plant evolution and computational approaches to botanical analysis. Education includes a B.A. in Biology from Carleton College and M.S./Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Arizona. Research domains encompass: Evolution of succulent growth forms across plant lineages Phylogenetic patterns in storage tissue development Bioinformatic approaches to plant morphology Convergent evolution in extreme environments Publications demonstrate consistent focus on evolutionary plant anatomy, with recent work exploring genomic foundations of adaptive traits (2014), microbiome dynamics in insects (2013), and computational morphology (2009). Research employs interdisciplinary methods integrating phylogenetics, molecular genetics, and anatomical studies across model systems including Arabidopsis, Euphorbia, and Adenia.

Christopher OufieroView profile

Professor

• Evolutionary Physiology
• Functional Morphology
• Comparative Biomechanics
• +3 more

Dr. Christopher Oufiero is a Professor and Graduate Director in the Department of Biological Sciences at Towson University's Fisher College of Science and Mathematics. He directs the TU Mantis Lab investigating functional morphology and evolutionary physiology. Education: Ph.D. in Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology (UC Riverside) M.S. in Life Sciences (Indiana State University) B.S. in Biology (Montclair State University) His research integrates evolutionary biology, functional morphology, and biomechanics to study mantis diversity. Current projects examine relationships between diet, prey capture mechanics, and ingestion rates across species that mimic different microhabitats. The lab employs 3D high-speed videography, machine learning, and DNA metabarcoding techniques. Dr. Oufiero teaches courses including Animal Physiology, Ecological Physiology, and Organismal Form & Function Lab — a Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) he developed. His pedagogical research focuses on creating authentic research experiences in organismal biology education. The TU Mantis Lab maintains several species colonies and collaborates with researchers nationally. Current graduate student projects investigate Tenodera sinensis diet-morphology relationships and orchid mantis predation variation.

• Molecular Biology
• Entomology
• Genetics
• +4 more

Jeremy Blaschke is an Associate Professor of Biology at Union University, specializing in molecular phylogenetics, entomology, and the integration of faith with scientific inquiry. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, along with M.S. and B.S. degrees in Biology. His research focuses on insect biodiversity, DNA barcoding, and the evolutionary history of parasitoid flies (Tachinidae) and hymenopterans. He is actively involved in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park biodiversity inventory and has discovered cryptic species through genetic analysis. Dr. Blaschke’s work bridges scientific rigor with theological reflection, exploring topics like parasite evolution within a creationist framework. He has published extensively on hymenopteran systematics, molecular techniques, and historical perspectives on parasitology. Notable accolades include the 2021 Faculty Member of the Year award and the 2019 Biology Researcher of the Year. He mentors students in fieldwork and lab research, emphasizing hands-on learning through initiatives like the Blaschke Lab, which explores insect behavior and antibiotic potential in invertebrates. His teaching spans undergraduate courses in entomology and biology, and he actively engages the broader academic community through presentations on topics such as ‘Faith and Science in the History of Parasitology’ and ‘Trinitarian Ecology.’ He is committed to fostering a learning environment where Christian faith and scientific exploration complement one another.