Find Academic Supervisors

• Interfacial dynamics
• Multiphase flow
• Pattern formation
• +2 more

Dr.-Ing. Karin Schwarzenberger is Group Leader for Interfacial Phenomena at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) and since 2020 deputy group leader for the Chair of Transport Processes at Interfaces at TU Dresden. She has been continuously affiliated with TU Dresden’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering since 2003, advancing from diploma studies through PhD to post-doctoral and leadership roles. Education: Doctoral studies (Dr.-Ing.), TU Dresden, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, 2010–2015 Thesis: “Experimental Investigations on Stationary Solutal Marangoni Instability” Diploma in Process Engineering, TU Dresden, 2003–2010 Diploma Thesis: “Calculation of Interaction Energies between Fractal Aggregates” Research Interests Karin Schwarzenberger’s work centers on interfacial transport phenomena, pattern formation, and multiphase flows. Key areas include: Interfacial dynamics at liquid/liquid and liquid/gas boundaries Particle–particle and particle–interface interactions Solutal Marangoni instabilities and convective structures Coacervation and complexation of polymers and surfactants Microgravity effects on buoyancy-driven instabilities Her experimental approach combines high-resolution optical diagnostics with numerical simulations to unravel the coupling between mass transfer, surface tension gradients, and hydrodynamic instabilities. Publication Trends Between 2012 and 2025 Schwarzenberger has published more than 30 peer-reviewed articles. Recent work (2022–2025) demonstrates a clear shift toward applied interfacial engineering—surface functionalization of Ti64 alloys, foam fractionation for protein purification, and coacervation-based membrane formation—while maintaining fundamental studies on Marangoni convection and buoyancy-driven instabilities under microgravity. Scientific Awards No specific awards are mentioned in the provided materials. Advising & Funding While the text does not list individual students, her role as group leader at HZDR and deputy chair leader at TU Dresden implies supervision of doctoral researchers and technical staff. Funding is implicitly provided through Helmholtz Association programmes and collaborative projects with TU Dresden. Labs & Teams She heads the Interfacial Phenomena group at HZDR, located in building 310 at Bautzner Landstrasse 400, Dresden. The group operates state-of-the-art optical measurement techniques (PIV, LIF, high-speed imaging) and performs experiments both in the laboratory and under microgravity conditions (parabolic flights).

Zhilang ZhangView profile

Professor

• Computational Mechanics
• Numerical Simulation
• Advanced Manufacturing
• +3 more

Dr. Zhilang Zhang is a Professor at ETH Zurich, holding the Professorship for Advanced Manufacturing within the Department of New Manufacturing Technologies. His research focuses on computational mechanics, numerical simulation methods (SPH, FEM), advanced manufacturing processes, and process modeling. He specializes in high-fidelity modeling of complex phenomena such as additive manufacturing, material sintering, and fluid-structure interactions. Key research areas include multiscale modeling, CFD-DEM coupling, and novel numerical methods for extreme mechanics problems. His work integrates advanced computational techniques with experimental validations, addressing challenges in manufacturing, materials science, and fluid dynamics. Recent projects involve operando synchrotron tomography for melt pool analysis and parallelized SPH frameworks for large-scale simulations. Notable contributions include developing the Direct FE2 method for multiscale simulations and improving hydroelastic modeling via meshless methods. He actively explores applications of physics-informed neural networks and surrogate models in engineering optimization. His research group collaborates on cutting-edge projects at the intersection of computational engineering and advanced manufacturing, with a focus on sustainable and high-performance materials processing.

• Thin Films
• Ferroelectric Materials
• Piezoelectricity
• +4 more

Minh Duc Nguyen is a Researcher at the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Twente, specializing in inorganic materials science. His work focuses on thin film materials, particularly ferroelectric and piezoelectric systems, with applications in energy storage, sensors, and actuators. Key research interests include dielectric breakdown mechanisms, multilayer capacitor design, and material interface engineering. Dr. Nguyen has contributed over 120 peer-reviewed publications, with notable work on high-energy-density capacitors and epitaxial thin film growth techniques. His research often involves collaborations across material science and nanotechnology domains. Research activities highlight innovations in silicon-integrated ferroelectric films, light-induced displacement in piezoelectric-photodiode hybrids, and energy storage optimization in dielectric systems. Nguyen’s work frequently utilizes advanced characterization methods like Kelvin probe force microscopy and pulsed laser deposition. He has presented at international conferences on topics ranging from thin film actuators to oxide electronics integration.

Andrew J B MilneView profile

Lecturer

• Fluid Mechanics
• Engineering Education
• Assessment Methods
• +3 more

Andrew J B Milne is a Continuing Lecturer at the University of Waterloo. His work spans engineering education and fluid mechanics research. He focuses on innovative teaching methods, assessment strategies, and fluid dynamics phenomena such as superhydrophobic surfaces and turbulent flow behavior. His contributions include advancing co-op program evaluations and integrating real-world applications into engineering curricula. Research interests highlight the intersection of education and technical disciplines. He explores effective assessment tools for learning outcomes, problem-based learning through hackathons, and practical demonstrations like using carburetors to teach fluid mechanics. His fluid dynamics work addresses drag reduction in complex flows and surface chemistry effects on liquid behavior. Notable publications analyze work-term evaluations, survey methodologies for student self-assessment, and experimental studies on sessile drops and surfactant solutions. These studies emphasize both pedagogical innovation and fundamental fluid mechanics principles. No scientific awards or grants are explicitly listed, though his cross-disciplinary work reflects sustained academic engagement.

• Mechanical Engineering
• Finite Element Analysis
• Material Science
• +5 more

Marco ALFANO is a Full Professor at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, affiliated with the Department of Engineering Sciences and Methods (DISMI) within the College of Engineering. His academic role includes teaching advanced courses such as Digital Multiphysics Simulation for Machine Design, Mechanics of Machines and Structures, and Advanced Lightweight Mechanical Design. His research focuses on mechanical design methodologies, finite element analysis, material selection for lightweight structures, additive manufacturing, and fracture mechanics of adhesive joints. Teaching responsibilities span master’s and undergraduate programs in Digital Automation Engineering, Management Engineering, and Sustainable Industrial Engineering. Courses emphasize numerical simulation tools (e.g., FEA), material behavior under multi-physics conditions, and sustainable design strategies. Research interests include optimizing laser cladding processes for high-performance coatings, enhancing adhesive joint toughness through surface patterning, and analyzing crack propagation in 3D-printed materials. His work bridges computational modeling (e.g., machine learning applications) with experimental validation, contributing to fields like aerospace and automotive engineering. Publications (15+ since 2021) highlight interdisciplinary collaborations, addressing topics such as composite material characterization, energy dissipation in interfaces, and mechanical properties of laser-deposited alloys. His research is driven by industrial applications, focusing on durability, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing techniques.

Derk JoesterView profile

Professor

• Biomineralization
• Materials Science
• Nanostructure Analysis
• +3 more

Professor Derk Joester leads the Joester Group at Northwestern University's Department of Materials Science and Engineering. His research focuses on understanding the formation, properties, and degradation of mineralized tissues in both vertebrate and invertebrate organisms, with a particular emphasis on biomineralization mechanisms. He employs cutting-edge techniques such as atom probe tomography (APT), synchrotron X-ray microtomography, and machine learning-driven image segmentation to study materials like chiton radula teeth and human dental enamel. Education: Ph.D. Chemistry, ETH Zurich, Switzerland (2000) M.Sc. Chemistry, ETH Zurich, Switzerland (1999) Fulbright Scholar, University of Tennessee (1994–1995) B.A. Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Germany (1992) Research Interests: His group investigates the role of organic matrices in controlling mineralization, the dynamics of amorphous-to-crystalline transitions, and the application of bioinspired materials in fields like dentistry and additive manufacturing. Key projects include the Enamel Atlas initiative to map enamel structure across scales and the study of Sr sequestration in marine organisms for nuclear waste remediation. Professional Recognition: Fellowships: Minerva, Weizmann Institute, ETH Zurich, Fulbright Awards: Dr. Nathorff-Einstein Award (1992), Fonds of the German Chemical Industry Award (1992) Grants & Collaborations: Current funding supports projects like the Enamel Atlas , bioengineering single-crystal growth, and Sr mineralization studies in Acantharea. Collaborators include institutions such as UCSF, UPenn, and the Forsyth Institute. Labs & Teams: The Joester Group hosts a multidisciplinary team, with ongoing projects in cryo-tomography, nanomaterials visualization, and computational modeling of biomineral systems.

Srikanth GopalanView profile

Professor

• Solid State Ionics
• Fuel Cells
• Electrochemical Energy Storage
• +7 more

Srikanth Gopalan is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Boston University's College of Engineering and an affiliated faculty member of the Institute for Global Sustainability (IGS). His research focuses on solid-state ionics, fuel cells, electrolyzers, and batteries, with particular emphasis on materials such as mixed conducting oxides, nanoscale heterostructures, and surface/interface engineering to enhance electrochemical performance. He holds a PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Utah and a BTech in Metallurgical Engineering from IIT Bombay. His work addresses challenges like chromium poisoning mitigation in solid oxide fuel cell cathodes, development of durable oxygen electrodes for reversible solid oxide cells, and novel solution-processing methods for advanced materials. Key contributions include core-shell heterostructures synthesized via molten salt methods and protective interconnect coatings for enhanced SOFC reliability. Recent articles highlight advancements in chromium-resistant electrode architectures, computational design of multi-impurity-tolerant materials, and performance optimization of solid-state batteries. His research aligns with global energy sustainability goals, emphasizing scalable, cost-effective solutions for renewable energy storage and grid integration. No scientific awards or grant details are explicitly mentioned in the provided text. He advises no listed students, though his work involves collaborative experimental and computational studies with research teams focused on energy materials.

• Laser-assisted materials development
• Biomedical titanium alloys
• Surface composites and coatings
• +3 more

Amelia Almeida is an Associate Professor at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon. She specializes in laser-assisted materials development, focusing on biomedical titanium alloys, surface composites, and energy storage materials. Her work integrates structural/chemical characterization techniques like X-ray diffraction and microscopy. Research Interests: Her studies emphasize novel material synthesis via plasma and laser technologies, including graphene-based nanostructures and corrosion-resistant alloys. She explores applications in biomedical engineering, energy storage, and tribology. Awards: Recipient of the Best Poster Award at ICALEO 2005 for her contributions to laser processing innovation. Lab Affiliations: Active researcher at CeFEMA – Center for Physics and Engineering of Advanced Materials. Collaborates on projects involving femtosecond laser surface texturing for biomedical implants and corrosion-resistant coatings.

• Materials Science
• Surface Engineering
• Mechanical Properties of Thin Films
• +3 more

Maria Angustias Auger Martinez is an Associate Professor and Deputy Director of the Physics Department at Carlos III University of Madrid . Her research focuses on materials science , particularly in surface engineering , thin film deposition , and mechanical property enhancement of coatings for industrial and nuclear applications. Email : mariaangustias.auger@uc3m.es Contact : +34 916249478 Location : 4.0.C07 - Quevedo Towers (Leganés) Her work involves reactive magnetron sputtering for depositing TiN , ZrN , and AlN coatings, analyzing their microstructure , hardness , and corrosion resistance . She has contributed to understanding nanoparticle dispersion in ODS steels for fusion reactors and developed multilayer coatings with enhanced mechanical properties. Her publications from 2002–2017 reflect expertise in X-ray diffraction , AES/EDS characterization , and nanoindentation . Notable projects include industrial tool life extension (67% improvement via TiN coatings) and thermal stability studies of nitride films. She collaborates on structural material development for nuclear applications (e.g., W-V/Ti ODS materials ). Her research spans metallurgical characterization , tribology , and corrosion behavior of advanced materials. Despite no explicit scientific awards or student advising information in the provided texts, her technical contributions to coating technologies and nuclear-grade alloys demonstrate significant impact in applied materials science.

• Materials Science
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Nanotechnology
• +5 more

Eduardo Colera Sala is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M), where he also serves as Secretary of the Physics Department. His research focuses on advanced materials characterization using techniques such as X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), and computational modeling. Key areas include energy materials (e.g., solid oxide fuel cells, solar cells), nanomaterials (e.g., thin films, nanoparticles), and functional oxides with applications in magnetism and electronics. Recent work emphasizes optimizing thin film properties for energy systems, studying structural changes in high-performance steels under thermal aging, and investigating surface chemistry effects in environmental and heritage materials. He collaborates extensively on interdisciplinary projects involving materials synthesis, device fabrication, and in situ characterization under controlled environmental conditions. Publications reflect a strong emphasis on structure-property relationships in materials, with contributions to understanding phase transitions, defect engineering, and interfacial phenomena. His work bridges fundamental materials science with applied technologies in energy, electronics, and cultural heritage preservation.

Matthew BlacklockView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Composite Materials
• Computational Mechanics
• Additive Manufacturing
• +7 more

Matthew Blacklock is a Senior Lecturer in the Mechanical and Construction Engineering Department at Northumbria University. His research focuses on composite materials, computational mechanics, and additive manufacturing, with applications spanning aerospace, naval engineering, and sustainable materials. He holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Manchester and has previously worked at the University of California, Santa Barbara (National Hypersonic Science Center) and RMIT University. Research interests: Mechanics of composite materials Advanced computational modeling Thermo-mechanical behavior of ceramic matrix composites Statistical characterization of woven composites Additive manufacturing of continuous fiber-reinforced composites Engineering education (blended learning, feedback tools) Selected research output trends: Specializes in numerical modeling (cohesive zone methods, finite element analysis) Focus on material extrusion 3D printing accuracy (2023-2025) Recent work on hybrid composites for fracture resistance (2025) Long-term interest in ceramic matrix composites (2010-2014) Contributions to sustainable materials (cork-polymer composites 2016) Scientific awards: Northumbria University Distinguished Teaching Fellow (2023) Rewarding Excellence & Innovation in Teaching (2018) Current projects include KTP 3-D Printed Models (Innovate UK, 2021-2024) involving collaborative research with industry partners.

Steven ZinkleView profile

Professor

• Materials Science
• Nuclear Materials
• Radiation Effects in Materials
• +3 more

Steven Zinkle is a Professor in the Materials Science and Engineering department at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, affiliated with the Tickle College of Engineering. His research focuses on advanced materials for extreme environments, particularly in nuclear and fusion energy applications. Key areas include radiation effects in metals, high-temperature ceramics, and materials for plasma-facing components. His work addresses challenges such as irradiation-induced microstructural evolution, thermal stability under extreme conditions, and material compatibility with hydrogen or corrosive environments. Notable contributions include studies on ferritic/martensitic steels, refractory alloys, and composites for fusion reactors. He has pioneered methodologies in electron microscopy for defect analysis and developed novel materials for neutron and ion irradiation environments. Recent projects involve correlative microscopy techniques (STEM/APT), ion-beam simulations, and additive manufacturing of high-performance alloys. Collaborations include international initiatives like the FRONTIER US-Japan joint effort on plasma-material interfaces. Despite extensive publications, no specific student advising or awarded honors are explicitly listed in the provided texts. His lab focuses on bridging computational modeling with experimental validation to accelerate materials qualification for next-generation reactors. Current efforts emphasize predictive pathways for radiation-tolerant materials and high-throughput screening of candidate alloys.

Yuri GodinView profile

Associate Professor

• Partial Differential Equations
• Mathematical Physics
• Wave Propagation
• +3 more

Yuri Godin is an Associate Professor in the Mathematics & Statistics Department at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. His research focuses on Partial Differential Equations, Mathematical Physics, and Wave Propagation in periodic and random media. He holds an M.Sc. from St. Petersburg State Polytechnic University (1985) and a Ph.D. from Technion – Israel Institute of Technology (1994). His work explores the propagation of acoustic and elastic waves in structured materials, emphasizing dispersion, spectral gaps, and composite material properties. Key interests include analyzing wave behavior in periodic media with soft inclusions and studying the effects of disorder on wave dynamics in optical systems. Godin has published extensively in journals such as Physics Letters A, Proceedings of the Royal Society A, and the SIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics. His research bridges theoretical analysis and applications in materials science and photonics, with a focus on high-contrast media and effective properties of complex structures.

• Additive Manufacturing
• Crystal Plasticity
• Finite Element Methods
• +3 more

Björn Nijhuis is a researcher at the University of Twente , specializing in computational mechanics and additive manufacturing technologies. His work focuses on developing robust numerical frameworks for crystal plasticity finite element modeling (CPFEM) and machine learning-enhanced thermal analysis in metal 3D printing. Principal Investigator for postdoctoral project: Repurposing of steel by in-depth understanding of microstructure-property relations PhD research: Efficient Thermomechanical Modelling of Large-Scale Metal Additive Manufacturing Research highlights include: Innovative stress-update algorithms for rate-independent plasticity Fourier neural operator applications for temperature evolution prediction Integration of Fortran-based CPFEM with Abaqus software Development of simplified MATLAB implementations for algorithm testing Scientific achievements: Recipient of Biezeno Award (2023) Contributions to 10+ peer-reviewed publications Active participation in international conferences (ESAFORM 2022, MORTech 2023, IUTAM 2022) Current research involves: Metallic material microstructure analysis Large-scale additive manufacturing simulations Machine learning integration for manufacturing optimization Collaborative work with supervisors Prof. Ton van den Boogaard and Dr. Emin Semih Perdahcioglu

Aurelie Anna Florence JacobView profile

Researcher

• Materials Science
• Metallurgy
• Thermodynamic Modeling
• +3 more

Dr. Aurelie Anna Florence Jacob is a researcher affiliated with TU Wien, specifically within the Computational Materials Development Research Group (E308-03-2) . Her primary role is as a Project Assistant with a Doctorate in Natural Sciences (Dr. rer. nat.). Her research focuses on advanced materials science, particularly in metallurgical processes, phase transformations, and computational modeling of steel microstructures. She specializes in thermodynamic and kinetic simulations of intermetallic phases (e.g., σ phase, G-phase) in high-alloyed steels, aiming to predict microstructural evolution and optimize material properties. Key research topics include: Thermodynamic modeling of phase equilibria in steel systems (Fe-Cr-Mn-Mo-Ni). Experimental and computational analysis of σ phase precipitation in hyper duplex stainless steels. Recrystallization kinetics in microalloyed steels and T₀-temperature evaluation. Development of databases for bainitic microstructures and Laves phase formation. Her collaborative work involves in-situ XRD experiments and CALPHAD-based simulations to understand phase evolution under thermal and mechanical processing. Jacob’s contributions bridge experimental materials characterization with predictive computational tools, advancing materials design for high-performance applications. Her recent publications highlight advancements in understanding phase stability, precipitation kinetics, and material recycling processes. She actively participates in international conferences, presenting findings on topics like sigma phase mechanisms and Gibbs energy reassessment for T₀-temperature predictions.