Labwork Professors and Supervisors

Stephen C. EkkerView profile

Professor

University of Texas at AustinUnited States

Stephen C. Ekker, Ph.D., serves as Professor of Pediatrics at Dell Medical School and Professor in the Department of Molecular Biosciences at the College of Natural Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin. He holds dual leadership roles as Associate Dean of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Dell Medical School and Associate Vice President of Research Translation for the university. A pioneering genome engineer with 30+ years of experience, Dr. Ekker develops molecular DNA editing tools using zebrafish in vivo and human cells in vitro to decode genomic functions and create novel therapeutics. His research embodies the bench-to-business-to-bedside translation model, emphasizing entrepreneurial pathways for scientific discovery. Key focus areas include mitochondrial disease therapies and companion animal gene editing through ventures like LifEngine Animal Health Laboratories. His work has received continuous National Institutes of Health funding for over two decades, supporting more than 170 scientific publications. As a serial entrepreneur, he co-founded Discovery Genomics Inc. (acquired by Immusoft in 2016), served as scientific advisor for Opentrons Labworks during its unicorn growth, and established Primera Therapeutics and LifEngine Technologies Inc. He previously served as President of the Genome Writers Guild (2017-2019) and Zebrafish Disease Models Society (2016-2017). Dr. Ekker leverages his experience as former Dean of Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences to shape innovation education at UT Austin. He directs the development of university-wide entrepreneurship programs while maintaining active research in genome editing, with current initiatives focusing on programmed B-cell therapies and mitochondrial disease treatments through his scientific founding roles.

Official University Profile

Mathieu OlivierView profile

Assistant Professor

University of BurgundyFrance

Mathieu Olivier is an Assistant Professor in Isotopic Geochemistry at the University of Burgundy's Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, affiliated with the SEDS (Sédimentologie, Environnement et Dynamique Sédimentaire) research team within the CNRS UMR 6282 Biogéosciences. His work focuses on carbon and nitrogen biogeochemical cycles' role in global change, particularly greenhouse gas emissions and organic matter dynamics. He employs stable isotope techniques (e.g., δ¹³C, δ¹⁵N) and advanced analytical methods like Py-GC-MS. Research interests include soil respiration, nitrogen cycling, and microbial contributions to carbon sequestration. His studies integrate field measurements (e.g., soil moisture imaging) with lab-based analyses, addressing agricultural and environmental challenges such as vineyard water management and microplastic contamination. Teaching spans 250+ hours/year across undergraduate and postgraduate levels at Université de Bourgogne. He supervises postgraduate labwork and has published over 40 peer-reviewed articles since 2006, focusing on isotopic methods, soil-plant interactions, and climate change impacts.

Official University Profile

Jacqueline GersonView profile

Assistant Professor

Michigan State UniversityUnited States

Jacqueline Gerson is a Fixed Term Assistant Professor at the Kellogg Biological Station and in the Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences at Michigan State University. She leads the Watershed Biogeochemistry in the Anthropocene Lab at Cornell University's Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering. Her research focuses on human impacts on nutrient and contaminant cycles in watersheds. Affiliations: Kellogg Biological Station (MSU), Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences (MSU), Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering (Cornell University). Her lab examines biogeochemical processes across terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches combining fieldwork, labwork, and data syntheses. She prioritizes community engagement, particularly with populations affected by environmental changes.

Official University Profile

Ilija N. CvijeticView profile

Assistant Professor

University of BelgradeSerbia

Ilija N. Cvijetic is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Serbia. His academic journey began with undergraduate studies (2004-2008) followed by doctoral studies (2008-2016), both at the University of Belgrade Faculty of Chemistry. After progressing through positions as Graduate Researcher, Associate Researcher, and Scientific Associate at the Innovative Centre of the Faculty of Chemistry, he became Assistant Professor in 2022. His research focuses on computational chemistry, molecular modeling, and drug design , with specific expertise in QSAR studies and the experimental and computational analysis of pharmacokinetic parameters of biologically active compounds. His work spans multiple disciplines including medicinal chemistry, analytical chemistry, and bioactive compound research, with emphasis on small molecules based on arydiketoacids scaffold. The analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a strong interdisciplinary research program spanning computational chemistry, natural product research, green chemistry, and pharmaceutical sciences . His recent work shows increasing focus on sustainable extraction methods using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES), computational drug design, and the development of novel bioactive compounds with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. His research demonstrates a consistent integration of experimental and computational methodologies across diverse scientific domains. Cvijetic actively participates in multiple research projects, including the SKIN ANTI-AGEING POTENTIAL OF RUSSIAN AND SERBIAN MEDICINAL PLANTS (SAPORUS) project funded by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia, and has contributed to projects related to molecularly imprinted polymers and propolis extracts for immune system enhancement. His work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary collaboration across chemistry, biology, and environmental science disciplines. At the University of Belgrade Faculty of Chemistry, he teaches Analytical Chemistry 1, Analytical Chemistry 3, and Analytical Chemistry Labwork courses, contributing to both undergraduate and graduate education in analytical chemistry. His research group applies advanced computational and experimental techniques to solve problems in drug discovery, environmental chemistry, and materials science.

Official University Profile

Faye ChiaoView profile

Associate Professor

Berklee College of MusicUnited States

Faye Chiao is an Associate Professor at Berklee College of Music, affiliated with the departments of Live Music Production and Design, Songwriting and Production, and Writing and Production for Musical Theater. She is a distinguished composer and performer whose work spans musical theater, opera, choral, chamber, orchestral, and multimedia genres. Position: Associate Professor University: Berklee College of Music Departments: Live Music Production and Design, Songwriting and Production, Writing and Production for Musical Theater Email: fchiao@berklee.edu Her research and creative interests center on narrative-driven music, particularly in musical theater and opera, often highlighting historical and social themes. She explores interdisciplinary connections, such as music and astronomy in To See the Stars , and integrates multimedia elements to enhance storytelling. Her works frequently focus on bold women, cultural identity, and human resilience. Her recent compositions reflect a strong trend toward biographical and socially conscious storytelling, ranging from the life of weightlifter Katie Sandwina to the espionage of Mary Bowser during the Civil War. Many pieces are commissioned by institutions like Houston Grand Opera, Kenyon College, and the Pittsburgh Festival Opera, indicating her national recognition. Her works often blend traditional forms with contemporary themes and performance practices. Presser Music Award from the Presser Foundation Puffin Foundation Grant Opera America Grant Chiao has been an artist in residence at New Victory LabWorks, the John Duffy Institute for New Opera at the Virginia Arts Festival, and the Boston Chamber Symphony. She is a member of the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Advanced Workshop, Maestra, and MUSE. Her works have been commissioned by major institutions and performed nationally, reflecting sustained creative output and professional engagement. While no specific grants are listed, her residencies and commissions suggest significant project funding. She has developed long-standing collaborations with librettist Anton Dudley and playwright Tasha Gordon-Solmon, particularly on musicals that center the voices of complex women. Her work with the Maryland Science Center and Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum on To See the Stars demonstrates a unique integration of science and art, performed in planetarium settings with custom video projections.

Official University Profile

Daniel S. ParkView profile

Assistant Professor

Purdue UniversityUnited States

Daniel S. Park is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Purdue University, where he investigates how evolutionary history and ecological interactions shape biodiversity patterns amid global environmental crises. His work addresses anthropogenic impacts through interdisciplinary approaches spanning biogeography, systematics, and ecology. Dr. Park's research centers on biogeographic and evolutionary mechanisms driving plant diversity responses to climate change and biological invasions, with specialized focus on the sunflower family (Asteraceae). He integrates fieldwork, labwork, informatics, and simulations across empirical and theoretical systems—from lemurs in Madagascar to knotweed on volcanic islands—to model past, present, and future ecosystem dynamics. His methodology emphasizes big-data analysis of historical specimens alongside contemporary observations. He directs a dynamic research lab comprising PhD candidates, graduate students, and postdocs examining plant-insect interactions, phenology shifts, invasive species evolution, and marine red algae phylogenetics. Current advisees include Haley Flickinger (PhD candidate studying ecosystem-level impacts of invasions), Marisa Laitinen (graduate student researching climate-driven phenology), and Edilene Pestana (visiting PhD student analyzing marine algal evolution). The lab prioritizes observational studies of natural complexity while leveraging historical ecological data.

Official University Profile

Henro ElfrinkView profile

Lecturer

University of GroningenNetherlands

H.L. (Henro) Elfrink is a Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Science and Engineering. With expertise in labwork and first aid, Elfrink contributes to educational programs and laboratory safety protocols. Contact: +31 50 36 34290 | h.l.elfrink@rug.nl Location: Room 51.16.03.316, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, Netherlands

Official University Profile

Daniel A. KieferView profile

Researcher

Paris Sciences et Lettres UniversityFrance

Daniel A. Kiefer is a researcher at Institut Langevin , affiliated with Université PSL and ESPCI Paris . His work focuses on advanced modeling of wave phenomena for material characterization and sensing applications. Education Dr.-Ing. in Ultrasonics (2022), University of Erlangen-Nürnberg M.Sc. in Mechatronics (2016), University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Study abroad (2015), University of British Columbia B.Sc. in Mechatronics (2013), University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Research spans elastodynamic wave analysis in anisotropic/heterogeneous media, with emphasis on semi-analytical modeling , zero-group-velocity (ZGV) Lamb waves , and fluid-structure interactions . Current projects include dispersion curve computation and inverse techniques for material identification. Recent publications highlight piezoelectric waveguide modeling , power flux skewing in anisotropic plates , and temperature compensation in ultrasonic flow meters . Methodologies integrate spectral methods with experimental validation via laser-ultrasound. Teaching contributions include labwork in Waves and Acoustics at ESPCI Paris and exercise classes for Numerical Simulation of Electro-Mechanical Transducers at University of Erlangen-Nürnberg. Labs Institut Langevin, ESPCI Paris

Official University Profile

Danijela S. KretićView profile

Assistant Professor

University of BelgradeSerbia

Danijela S. Kretić is an Assistant Professor at the Department of General and Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade. She holds a BSc (2018) and MSc (2019) in Chemistry from the same institution. Her research focuses on energetic materials, hydrogen bonding mechanisms, and crystal engineering of organoselenium compounds. She has contributed to significant studies published in journals like CrystEngComm , Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics , and Molecules in 2021. Employment History: She began as a Graduate Researcher (2019–2020) at the Faculty of Chemistry and its affiliated Innovative Centre before transitioning to her current role as Assistant Professor since 2020. She has expertise in laboratory instruction, specifically Inorganic Chemistry Labwork (102D2). Professional Identifiers: ORCID (0000-0002-8695-3958), ResearcherID (AES-6615-2022), and Scopus (57222665990) profiles document her academic contributions. Her work bridges computational modeling with experimental synthesis in materials science.

Official University Profile

Tilman SchäfferView profile

Professor

University of TübingenGermany

Tilman Schäffer is a Professor at the Institute of Applied Physics within the Department of Physics , part of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at the University of Tübingen. His academic role focuses on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of physics and biomedical technology. Position: University Professor and Deputy Director of the Institute of Applied Physics Key affiliations: Physics / Medical Technology Research Interests span nanoscale physics applications in biomedical contexts, particularly molecular and biological nanostructures, nanoanalytics, and interface science. His teaching portfolio includes: Nanoanalytics/Interfaces I – Lecture and Labwork Seminar on BioNano-Physics/Medical Physics Physics of molecular and biological nanostructures Physics Basic Course (Mechanics and Thermodynamics) Contact: tilman.schaeffer@uni-tuebingen.de

Official University Profile

Johannes RheinlaenderView profile

Researcher

University of TübingenGermany

Johannes Rheinlaender (Dr. rer. nat.) is a researcher at the Institute of Applied Physics (IAP) within the Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Tübingen. His academic responsibilities include teaching roles in physics practical courses and nanoanalytics seminars. Teaching activities: Physics Block Practical II (PP2), Nanoanalytics/Interfaces I Labwork (S01PBMT03), Seminar (S01SBMT01), and Lecture (S01VBMT07) during Winter Semester 2019/20. Primary research areas: Physics and Medical Technology, with specific focus on nanoanalytics, interfaces, and materials science.

Official University Profile

Joseph MantheyView profile

Associate Professor

Texas Tech UniversityUnited States

Joseph Manthey is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Texas Tech University, where he leads research in evolutionary genomics, population genetics, and molecular ecology. His work integrates field studies with advanced genomic and bioinformatic analyses to understand how species evolve across geographic and genomic landscapes, with a focus on birds, ants, and sky island ecosystems. Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University Research Group: Ecology & Environmental Biology, Genetics & Genomics, Systematics & Evolution Education: Postdoc, NYU Abu Dhabi (2016–2017) Ph.D., University of Kansas (2011–2015) M.S., Black Hills State University (2009–2011) B.S., University of Wisconsin–Madison (2004–2008) His research centers on evolutionary genomics and biodiversity in sky islands . He investigates transposable element evolution, population genomics of bird diversification, and landscape genomics in fragmented habitats such as the Ethiopian Highlands and the Madrean Sky Islands. His lab uses genome, methylome, and transcriptome data to explore evolutionary questions, particularly in avian systems. His recent publications highlight trends in phylogenomics , landscape genomics , and population structure analysis using next-generation sequencing. These works span topics like isolation by environment, chromosomal diversity, and comparative phylogenomic methods, reflecting a strong interdisciplinary approach combining ecology, evolution, and computational biology. Scientific Awards: No awards listed in the provided text. Dr. Manthey advises graduate students and is actively recruiting PhD candidates interested in ant/bacteria co-evolution, landscape genomics, population genomics, and vertebrate/invertebrate genome evolution. His lab, the Manthey Research Group, emphasizes computational biology and genomics data analysis. He has received research support through institutional affiliations and publications, though specific grants are not detailed in the text. Labs and Research Groups: Manthey Lab (mantheylab.org) Focus: Evolutionary Genomics, Landscape Genomics, Bioinformatics Methods: Fieldwork, labwork, computational genomics

Official University Profile

Emily CraverView profile

Assistant Professor

Viterbo UniversityUnited States

Emily Craver serves as Assistant Professor of Dance in the Musical Theatre Conservatory for the Performing Arts at Viterbo University, holding an MFA in Dance from Ohio State University and a B.S. from Skidmore College. Her educational background includes: MFA in Dance, Ohio State University B.S., Skidmore College Professor Craver's research integrates performance art and choreographic innovation across contemporary dance, musical theatre, and collaborative stage productions. Her work has been presented at New Victory LabWorks, WestFest's All Over Westbeth, Elastic Arts Center in Chicago, and Triskelion Arts in Brooklyn through her company The Little Streams. Notable performance venues include New York Botanical Gardens, Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art, and Jacob's Pillow Inside/Out Stage. No scientific awards were documented in the source material. She has choreographed major productions at Viterbo University including The Pajama Game , Carrie , Pirates of Penzance , 42nd Street , and the original work Into the Dirt developed with student collaborators. Her external choreographic credits span Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, Winona State, Colgate University, and Stoneham Theatre young company. Professor Craver performs with NYC-based Trainor Dance and New Orleans-based CabinFever Live Art, while co-founding The Little Streams collaborative dance company that produced three evening-length works at Brooklyn's Triskelion Arts.

Official University Profile