Find Academic Supervisors

• Electromagnetics
• Nanophotonics
• Antennas
• +3 more

Robert D Nevels is a Professor in the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering at Texas A&M University. He holds the rank of Fellow in both the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the Electromagnetics Academy (EM). His research focuses on analytical and numerical electromagnetics, nanophotonics, electromagnetic scattering, and antenna design. He has served as President of the IEEE Antennas and Propagation Society (AP-S) in 2010 and has been a member of its Administrative Committee during 1998-2001 and 2011-2014. His teaching excellence has been recognized through multiple awards, including the Region 5 Outstanding Educator Award and the University-level Distinguished Teaching Award from the Association of Former Students. Dr. Nevels earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Mississippi, followed by an M.S. from Georgia Institute of Technology and a B.S. from the University of Kentucky. His research interests emphasize advanced computational methods for electromagnetics, including FDTD techniques for nonlinear optics and propagator methods for wave analysis. His work spans theoretical foundations (e.g., Coulomb gauge formulations) and practical applications (e.g., antenna design for high-power systems). Key honors include: Eugene E.Webb'43 Faculty Fellow (Texas A&M) Twice recipient of the Outstanding Professor Award from IEEE Texas A&M Student Chapter Amoco Foundation Award for Distinguished Teaching Nevels has collaborated on grants related to electromagnetic scattering, plasma-based devices, and terahertz technology. His lab focuses on numerical methods and experimental validation of electromagnetic phenomena.

Danae PolsinView profile

Assistant Professor

• X-ray Diffraction and Crystallography
• Shock Waves
• Inertial Confinement Fusion
• +3 more

Danae Polsin is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, University of Rochester. Her research focuses on high-energy-density physics, shock wave dynamics, and x-ray diffraction techniques. She investigates material behavior under extreme conditions such as laser-driven compression, inertial confinement fusion, and multimegabar pressures. Dr. Polsin’s work addresses fundamental questions in condensed matter physics, including phase transitions, metallurgical transformations, and electronic structure evolution under extreme pressures and temperatures. Her research leverages cutting-edge facilities like the National Ignition Facility (NIF) and OMEGA Laser, where she develops diagnostic tools such as time-resolved x-ray diffraction systems to study warm dense matter and shock-compressed materials. Her recent studies include isostructural phase transitions in materials under laser shock, melt dynamics in nickel and iron compounds, and the structural complexity of sodium at high pressures. She collaborates on inertial confinement fusion projects, validating implosion models and advancing fusion energy systems through experimental design and multimessenger measurements. Danae Polsin’s research emphasizes bridging experimental observations with theoretical models, contributing to our understanding of material behavior at terapascal pressures and informing applications in energy systems and advanced materials science.

Deniz YavuzView profile

Professor

• Quantum Optics
• Ultrafast Physics
• Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics
• +14 more

Deniz Yavuz is a Professor and Director of the Molecular and Quantum Photonics Cluster (MSPQC) at the Department of Physics, University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he leads the Yavuz Lab. His research group conducts experimental, computational, and theoretical studies in quantum optics and ultrafast physics, with a focus on quantum interference effects such as slow and stopped light. His research interests span a wide range of topics in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics. Key areas include nanoscale atomic localization using electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT), molecular modulation for generating broadband coherent light sources (including the concept of a 'white laser'), superradiance as a source of decoherence in quantum computing, and axion detection through laser-based four-wave mixing in waveguides. He also investigates negative refraction and refractive index engineering in atomic and solid-state systems. The recent publications of Deniz Yavuz reflect a consistent focus on quantum optical phenomena, nonlinear interactions, and ultrafast processes. His articles explore topics such as nanoscale manipulation of atoms, axion generation, Raman lasing in microresonators, and superradiance. The keywords and sub-fields reveal a strong emphasis on quantum interference, coherence, and the engineering of light-matter interactions at fundamental limits. Among his notable scientific contributions are pioneering work on EIT-based sub-diffraction localization, high-power Raman lasing in solid-state resonators, and theoretical frameworks for axion detection and negative refraction. Though no specific awards are listed in the provided text, his sustained publication record in high-impact journals and leadership of a major research lab indicate significant recognition in the field. Deniz Yavuz has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom have pursued successful careers in academia and industry. His advising spans projects in atomic localization, molecular modulation, quantum computing, and axion physics. He has also received research funding enabling long-term investigations into quantum optics and ultrafast phenomena, though specific grants are not detailed in the text. The Yavuz Lab operates two optics laboratories in Chamberlain Hall and conducts research through experimental setups, computational modeling, and theoretical analysis. The lab is actively working on projects codenamed 'E.I.T.', 'Project Rainbow', 'Shepherd', and previously 'Project Green Lantern', reflecting a structured and innovative research environment focused on pushing the boundaries of quantum and optical science.

Till J.J. HanebuthView profile

Professor

• Marine geosciences
• Coastal changes
• Climate and ocean
• +10 more

Till J.J. Hanebuth is a Professor in the Department of Marine Science at Coastal Carolina University's Gupta College of Science. He leads the Coastal Geosystems Research Lab and is actively involved in numerous research projects focusing on coastal and marine geoscience. His work spans both fundamental research on sea level variability, river deltas, and continental shelf processes, as well as applied research addressing silting, erosion, and contamination issues. His educational background includes: Habilitation in Marine Geosciences from University of Bremen, Germany (2010) D.Sc. in Marine Geology from Chr.-Albrechts-University Kiel, Germany (2000) M.Sc. in Geology-Paleontology from Philipps-University Marburg, Germany (1996) B.Sc. in Geology-Paleontology from University of Hamburg, Germany (1993) Hanebuth's research interests span a broad spectrum of marine geoscience topics with a particular focus on coastal systems in the Anthropocene. His work examines how climate-related rising water levels, weather events, rapid urbanization, and land-use practices modify coastal environments. He investigates sea level variability, river delta dynamics, sediment and hydrodynamics on continental shelves, paleoceanography, and the impacts of human activities on coastal systems. His research often involves international collaborations across multiple continents including Germany, Spain, Portugal, Brazil, and Argentina. Analysis of Hanebuth's recent publications reveals a strong focus on continental shelf processes, sediment dynamics, and coastal change across diverse geographical regions including Southeast Asia, the Gulf of Cadiz, the Bengal Shelf, and the southeastern United States. His work frequently integrates geological, oceanographic, and anthropogenic factors to understand coastal evolution. A notable trend is the increasing attention to human impacts on coastal systems and the development of high-resolution records of environmental change using sediment cores and acoustic data. Hanebuth actively mentors students at all levels through the VIP (Vertically Integrated Projects) program. Undergraduate students progress through successive project-integrated courses building technical skills, while graduate students develop thesis research within his Coastal Geosystems Research Lab. He currently supervises one Ph.D., two MS, and one undergraduate student on the Bengal Shelf project examining monsoon, cyclones, tectonics, subsidence, and anthropogenic impacts. His laboratory offers students hands-on experience with advanced techniques including sediment coring, geochemical analysis, seismo-acoustic data processing, scanning electron microscopy, FTIR polymer measurement, Ground-Penetrating Radar surveying, and Real-Time Kinematic GPS elevation surveying. The lab collaborates with universities and institutions across South Carolina, other U.S. states, and internationally in Germany, Spain, Portugal, Brazil, and Argentina.

Stan F.S.P. LooijmansView profile

Assistant Professor

• Semi-crystalline materials
• Polymer processing
• Crystallization kinetics
• +4 more

Stan F.S.P. Looijmans is an Assistant Professor at the Processing and Performance of Materials group within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). His research focuses on bridging the gap between processing-induced structure formation and mechanical properties in semi-crystalline polymers, with a particular emphasis on advanced characterization techniques and multiscale modeling. Academic Background : BSc and MSc in Mechanical Engineering (TU/e), PhD in 2023 on adhesion-modified polypropylene composites Research Tools : Synchrotron X-ray/infrared radiation, microscale mechanical testing, numerical simulations His work explores key areas such as: Crystallization in additive manufacturing Structure formation under extreme conditions Micromechanical testing of composites Contact mechanics phenomena Local failure prediction in semi-crystalline systems Recent publications highlight his expertise in polymer crystallization kinetics, fiber-reinforced composites, and processing-structure-property relationships. Notably, his 2025 work on PLA stereocomplexation and PP/HDPE blends demonstrates innovative approaches to microstructure engineering. He contributes to education through courses in mechanical characterization of materials and soft materials processing.

Jianxiong LiView profile

Assistant Professor

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing
• Extreme Mechanics
• +5 more

Jianxiong Li serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University's College of Engineering, where he leads research in advanced manufacturing and materials mechanics. His work bridges fundamental materials science with practical engineering applications in aerospace, biomedical devices, and energy systems. Educational Background: Ph.D. in Welding Engineering, Ohio State University (2022) M.Eng. in Materials Processing Engineering, Tianjin University (2017) B.E. in Materials Shaping and Controlling Engineering, Tianjin University (2014) Research Focus: Dr. Li's investigations span Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing , Extreme Mechanics , and Dynamic Mechanical Testing of nanocrystalline alloys and metal matrix composites. His lab develops novel solid-state joining techniques like impact welding for dissimilar materials, with emphasis on microstructural evolution under high strain rates (up to $10^9$ s$^{-1}$) and interfacial phenomena in biomedical-grade joints. Current projects explore chemical strengthening of glass powders, refractory high-entropy alloy coatings, and synchrotron-based load transfer analysis in composites. Publication Trends: Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2020-2025) reveals three dominant themes: (1) Biomedical applications of microwelded NiTi-stainless steel joints with interfacial liquid control, (2) Fundamental studies of dislocation dynamics in nanocrystalline alloys at extreme strain rates, and (3) Process development for vaporizing foil actuator and laser-augmented impact welding of challenging material combinations. His work increasingly integrates advanced imaging techniques with mechanical testing. Scientific Recognition: Ohio State University Presidential Fellowship (2021) Research Infrastructure: Dr. Li directs the IM3D Lab (Imaging and Mechanics for Multi-scale Manufacturing), which specializes in high-speed imaging, synchrotron characterization, and mechanical testing of materials under extreme conditions. His group collaborates with national laboratories on vaporizing foil actuator technology and develops manufacturing solutions for next-generation biomedical devices and structural components.

Yang SongView profile

Professor

• Physical and Materials Chemistry
• Chemical Physics
• Chemistry under Extreme Conditions
• +3 more

Yang Song is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Western Ontario. His research focuses on materials under extreme conditions, utilizing high-pressure techniques and synchrotron radiation. He holds a B.Sc. from Peking University, a Ph.D. from Iowa State University, and postdoctoral training at Harvard University and the Carnegie Institution of Washington. His work explores novel functional materials through pressure tuning, with applications in energy storage, photovoltaics, and nanoporous materials. Key research tools include diamond anvil cells, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and synchrotron-based techniques. Notable awards include the Petro-Canada Young Innovator Award and the Ontario Early Researcher Award. His group has mentored numerous students, including M.Sc. and Ph.D. candidates, many of whom have presented at international conferences. The Song Research Laboratory collaborates with institutions globally, including the Canadian Light Source and Argonne National Laboratory. Recent projects address high-pressure photochemical reactions, hydrogen storage materials, and structural tuning of MOFs. Teaching includes courses in physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, and materials analysis. His lab’s infrastructure supports cutting-edge research, with a focus on interdisciplinary approaches at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and materials science.

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Mechanical Deformation Behavior of Materials
• Nanomechanics
• +4 more

Gaurav Mohanty is an Assistant Professor at Tampere University's Materials Science and Environmental Engineering department within the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences. His research focuses on deformation mechanisms of engineering materials at micro/nano scales using in-situ micromechanical testing in SEM environments. Key techniques include FIB-milled micropillars and cantilevers for studying mechanical properties under extreme conditions (cryogenic to ultra-high temperatures, strain rates from 0.0001 to 10,000/s). He explores transient plasticity, high-cycle fatigue, and combinatorial materials science across metals, ceramics, semiconductors, and thin films. Funding sources include the Academy of Finland, MATINE, and SAFIR. His work contributes to novel testing methodologies for small-scale materials and understanding deformation mechanisms. Research highlights include high-temperature nanoindentation systems, fracture studies in tungsten, and interfacial fracture toughness in dental prostheses. His research group emphasizes interdisciplinary collaborations, leveraging synchrotron X-ray diffraction and advanced EBSD analysis. Current projects address challenges in microscale fracture, high-rate deformation, and material design through combinatorial libraries.

Shaya FainmanView profile

Professor

• Silicon Photonics
• Biosensing
• Nanolasers
• +12 more

Shaya Fainman is a Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of California, San Diego, within the Jacobs School of Engineering. He has been a faculty member at UCSD since July 1990, following a prior appointment at the University of Michigan. His research is centered on advanced photonic technologies and optical systems. His research interests include silicon photonics, biosensing, nanolasers, plasmonics, optofluidics, imaging, and form-birefringent metamaterials. He also investigates artificial dielectric properties of nanostructures, polarization-selective computer-generated holograms, transparent photonic switching fabrics, programmable diffractive optical elements, 3D holographic optical storage, multifunctional diffractive optics, optical information processing using femtosecond laser pulses, nonconventional 3D imaging and displays, and quantum cryptography for photonic network security. The publications section references external links but does not list specific articles within the provided text, so no publication trends can be analyzed from the current data. There are no scientific awards mentioned in the provided information. Professor Fainman advises a research group focused on cutting-edge optical science and engineering, though no named students or grant details are listed. His work likely involves significant funding and collaboration, given the scope and technical depth of his research areas. His research group explores experimental and theoretical aspects of nanophotonics and integrated optics, contributing to innovations in photonic device design, imaging, and secure communication systems.

Thomas FennelView profile

Professor

• Strong-Field Physics
• Ultrafast Processes
• Nanoplasma Dynamics
• +3 more

Prof. Thomas Fennel is a faculty member at the Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy, leading the department A1: Strong Field Processes at Extreme Wavelengths. His research focuses on ultrafast phenomena in strong-field physics, nanoplasma dynamics, and quantum coherent imaging. He has pioneered work on attosecond electron emission, laser-driven nanoplasma expansion, and light-induced dynamics in nanoscale systems. His educational background includes advanced studies in physics and optics, though specific degrees are not detailed here. His lab specializes in experimental and theoretical investigations of extreme light-matter interactions, particularly at the nanoscale. Key techniques include time-resolved spectroscopy, diffraction imaging, and ultrafast laser systems. Recent publications explore topics like subcycle metallization of nanoparticles, attosecond electron emission from metal tips, and quantum coherence in nanostructures. These contributions highlight his leadership in advancing ultrafast science and nanoscale optics. No awards are explicitly mentioned, though his prolific publication record indicates significant contributions to the field. He collaborates extensively with international teams on projects involving femtosecond imaging, plasma dynamics, and strong-field ionization. His work bridges fundamental physics with applications in nanotechnology and quantum photonics, positioning him as a key figure in modern ultrafast science.

• Granular Mechanics
• Mechanical Engineering
• Neutron Diffraction
• +5 more

Associate Professor Christopher Wensrich is a faculty member in the School of Engineering at the University of Newcastle, Australia, specializing in Mechanical Engineering. He has a strong background in applied mechanics from both computational and experimental perspectives, with significant expertise in granular mechanics, neutron diffraction strain measurement, and Bragg-edge transmission strain tomography. Education: PhD, University of Newcastle Bachelor of Mathematics, University of Newcastle Bachelor of Engineering, University of Newcastle Professor Wensrich's research focuses on several interconnected areas within mechanical engineering and materials science. His primary expertise lies in granular mechanics, spanning from micromechanics and homogenization of granular systems to analytical modeling of granular dynamics (particularly the silo quaking problem) and computational modeling using the Discrete Element Method (DEM). He is also a pioneer in applying neutron diffraction strain scanning techniques to granular systems. In the broader field of applied mechanics, he has made significant contributions to neutron diffraction-based strain measurement, including breakthroughs in Bragg-edge Transmission Strain Tomography, where he demonstrated the world's first practical application outside of simple axisymmetric systems. His publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on developing and applying advanced techniques for strain measurement and reconstruction in granular and composite materials. His recent work has centered on tomographic reconstruction methods using neutron diffraction, with particular emphasis on Bragg-edge techniques for 2D and 3D strain field reconstruction. His research bridges theoretical mathematics, computational methods, and experimental validation, creating a robust framework for non-destructive stress measurement in complex materials. Professional Recognition: President of the Australian Neutron Beam User Group (ANBUG) since December 2022 Member of the ACNS Program Advisory Team at ANSTO (Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation) since March 2019 Visiting Fellow at Clare Hall College, Cambridge University (January-June 2023) Visiting Researcher at Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences (January-June 2023) Professor Wensrich has secured substantial research funding, with a total of $5,478,793 across 42 grants. His funding portfolio includes projects from the Australian Research Council (ARC), ANSTO, and international partners like Oakridge National Laboratory and Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex. He has successfully supervised 11 PhD and Masters students to completion, with research topics spanning granular mechanics, conveyor systems, and neutron strain tomography. His current research involves collaborations with institutions worldwide, focusing on advanced strain measurement techniques and their application to complex material systems.

Zihe GaoView profile

Assistant Professor

• Optics
• Integrated Photonics
• Quantum Optics
• +5 more

Zihe Gao serves as a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Auburn University's College of Engineering since August 2023, following postdoctoral research at the University of Pennsylvania and industry experience at Meta (Facebook Reality Labs). His academic foundation includes: PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (2018) MS in Physics, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (2012) BS in Physics, Nanjing University (2011) Dr. Gao's research integrates optics, microelectronics, and physics to develop programmable photonic systems. His work focuses on controlling collective behaviors in multi-element photonic systems for scalable integrated chips, with applications spanning dynamically steerable laser sources and reconfigurable quantum optical platforms . Key methodologies include non-Hermitian physics, topological photonics, and spin-orbit coupling engineering. Analysis of his 2023-2025 publications reveals dominant trends in non-Hermitian photonic switching , high-dimensional quantum state manipulation , and topological semiconductor laser arrays . His team pioneers lithography-free reconfigurable photonics and spin-orbit microlasers for quantum key distribution, demonstrating strong industry-academia translation from prior Meta work on AR/VR structured-light systems. His scholarly trajectory shows continuous progression from VCSEL array fundamentals (PhD under Prof. Kent Choquette) to quantum-topological photonics (postdoc with Prof. Liang Feng), now establishing independent research at Auburn with emphasis on integrated quantum-classical hybrid systems.

David CollinsView profile

Associate Professor

• Materials Science
• Metallurgy
• Superalloys
• +4 more

Dr David Collins serves as the Mike Ashby Associate Professor in Materials Science at the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, and is a core member of the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) focused on advanced aerospace materials. His research spans superalloys , titanium alloys , and high-entropy alloys , with expertise in phase transformations , high-temperature deformation , and microstructural evolution . He pioneers advanced characterization techniques including in-situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction , electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) , and three-dimensional X-ray diffraction (3DXRD) to investigate grain-scale stress interactions and failure mechanisms under extreme conditions. Analysis of his 2023-2025 publications reveals dominant trends in additive manufacturing validation , oxidation/corrosion resistance of superalloys , and grain-resolved mechanical behavior using coupled experimental-computational approaches. His work frequently addresses Rolls-Royce-relevant challenges in jet engine materials, particularly nickel-based superalloy performance under cyclic thermal-mechanical loading. No specific scientific awards for Dr Collins are mentioned in available departmental communications, though the Rolls-Royce UTC recently celebrated prizes for other researchers. Details regarding student supervision and grant funding are not publicly specified, but his position within the EPSRC- and Rolls-Royce-funded UTC indicates active involvement in large-scale collaborative research projects. As part of the Rolls-Royce UTC infrastructure, Dr Collins utilizes specialized facilities including electro-thermal mechanical testing rigs, cyclic oxidation test systems, and synchrotron beamline partnerships for real-time microstructural analysis during deformation and phase transformations.

Reeta VyasView profile

Professor

• Quantum Optics
• Laser Physics
• Nonlinear Optics
• +3 more

Reeta Vyas is a tenured Professor of Physics at the University of Arkansas , where she has been affiliated since 1989. She has held consecutive promotions from Assistant (1989–1994), Associate (1994–2002), to full Professor (2002–present). Her research focuses on quantum optics and laser physics, with a particular emphasis on light-matter interactions, beam propagation, and quantum coherence. Research Themes Quantum optics and photon statistics Nonlinear optical phenomena Orbital angular momentum of light Polarization properties of structured beams Her publications from 2017–2024 reveal a sustained focus on advanced optical phenomena including quantum light statistics , vortex beam diffraction , and nonlinear phase analysis . Notable achievements include the Faculty Gold Medal Award (2005) and Senior Membership in the Optical Society of America (2013) . While no student advising information is explicitly documented, her work demonstrates significant contributions to theoretical and experimental quantum optics.

• Thin Films
• Material Science
• Oxide Materials
• +4 more

Guus Rijnders is a Full Professor at the University of Twente in the Department of Inorganic Materials Science. His research focuses on advanced materials synthesis and characterization, particularly thin films, oxide materials, and ferroelectric systems. With expertise in pulsed laser deposition techniques, he investigates novel materials for electronic, energy storage, and sensor applications. Research interests encompass nanomaterials science, with emphasis on designing and optimizing functional materials through controlled growth processes. Key areas include perovskite oxides for energy applications, nanoscale ferroelectric phenomena, and developing oxide superlattices with tailored electronic properties. His work bridges fundamental materials science with device engineering for next-generation technologies. Recent publications demonstrate extensive work on ferroelectric capacitors, perovskite thin films, and oxide interfaces. Research trends show consistent focus on energy storage materials, nanoscale characterization techniques, and novel synthesis methods for complex oxides. Articles frequently explore structure-property relationships in functional materials with applications in electronics and energy conversion. He maintains active collaborations across Europe and internationally, contributing to multidisciplinary projects in materials research. His group utilizes advanced fabrication and characterization facilities at the MESA+ Institute.