Find Academic Supervisors

Parisa HosseinzadehView profile

Assistant Professor

• Protein Design
• Computational Biochemistry
• Biosensors
• +3 more

Parisa Hosseinzadeh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Bioengineering at the University of Oregon. Her research focuses on computational protein design and structure-guided rational protein/peptide engineering, with applications in enzyme design, biosensors, and biomedical solutions. She holds a B.Sc. from the University of Tehran, a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois (advisor: Yi Lu), and a postdoc at the University of Washington in David Baker's lab. Her lab emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches at the intersection of computer science, chemistry, and biology, prioritizing diversity and inclusion in STEM. Key projects include designing cyclic peptides as enzyme inhibitors, developing methods for tuning redox potentials in metalloproteins, and creating tools to combat biomedical challenges. Lab members include postdocs, graduate students (e.g., Noora Azadvari, Andrew Powers), and undergraduates. Notable achievements include NSF grants, the Baxter Foundation Award, and the Hans Horse Meyer Award. The lab also emphasizes mentorship, collaborative culture, and outreach initiatives.

Xiaoqing PanView profile

Professor

• Materials Science
• Electron Microscopy
• Atomic-scale Characterization
• +6 more

Xiaoqing Pan is a Professor and Henry Samueli Endowed Chair in Engineering at the University of California, Irvine, with dual appointments in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering and the Department of Physics and Astronomy. He serves as Director of the Irvine Materials Research Institute (IMRI) and the Center for Complex and Active Materials (NSF MRSEC). A renowned electron microscopy expert, Pan has developed advanced transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques for atomic-scale material characterization. Ph.D., Universität des Saarlandes, Germany (1991) His research focuses on atomic-scale structure-property relationships in oxide heterostructures, ferroelectrics, nanocatalysts, and 2D functional materials. Pan leads development of novel 4D-STEM and momentum-resolved vibrational electron microscopy methods to study single-atom catalysts and complex oxides. With over 400 high-impact publications in Nature , Science , and Nature Materials , his work has been recognized by major fellowships and awards from the American Ceramic Society, American Physical Society, and National Science Foundation. Pan's recent work includes: Atomic-scale analysis of grain boundary phonon anisotropy Advances in FeSe/SrTiO 3 interface electron-phonon coupling Plastic waste upcycling through carbon intermediate interception Control of metal-support interactions in photocatalysts Strain engineering in high-entropy oxide films His laboratory at UCI represents the forefront of materials characterization technology development.

Keith A. BrownView profile

Associate Professor

• Hierarchical Soft Matter
• Autonomous Experimentation
• Scanning Probe Techniques
• +4 more

Keith A. Brown is an Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering at Boston University's College of Engineering with additional appointments in Materials Science & Engineering and Physics. He serves as Associate Chair for Graduate Programs in ME and leads the interdisciplinary KABLab research group. Education: PhD, Harvard University Dr. Brown's research centers on hierarchical soft matter systems including polymers and smart fluids. His group develops innovative approaches to accelerate materials research through nanocombinatorics , autonomous experimentation , and scanning probe lithography . Key focus areas include connecting nanoparticle properties to bulk smart fluid behavior, designing 3D-printed structures with programmed mechanics, and creating self-driving laboratories for materials discovery. His recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate a strong emphasis on autonomous experimentation systems integrating machine learning with physical research. This work spans energy-absorbing foam design, nanoscale fluid manipulation, and physics-informed modeling for mechanical systems, establishing new paradigms in accelerated materials development. Scientific Awards: The Early Career Research Excellence Award, College of Engineering, 2021 Professor of the Year, Mechanical Engineering, 2020 Frontiers of Materials Award, The Minerals Metals and Materials Society (TMS), 2020 Dean’s Catalyst Award (2018) Dean’s Catalyst Award (2020) Moorman-Simon Interdisciplinary Career Development Professor, 2016 Dr. Brown teaches undergraduate courses including Fluid Mechanics (ME 303), Introduction to Materials (ME 306), and Nanomanufacturing (ME/MS 576). His research is supported by: Federal Grants : AFOSR MURI, NSF Nanomanufacturing, ACS Petroleum Research Fund Foundations : Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation Industry : Google Faculty Research Award University : BU Dean's Catalyst Award, Nanotechnology Innovation Center The KABLab employs interdisciplinary teams to develop novel instrumentation for hierarchical soft matter research, with particular expertise in autonomous experimentation platforms that combine scanning probe techniques with machine learning for accelerated materials discovery.

Daria Camilla BoffitoView profile

Professor

• Process Intensification
• Catalysis
• Photocatalysis
• +11 more

Daria Camilla Boffito is a Full Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Polytechnique Montréal , holding the Tier-2 Canada Research Chair in Intensified Mechano-chemical Processes for Sustainable Biomass Conversion. Her research spans process intensification , catalysis , sonochemistry , photocatalysis , and metal extraction , with a focus on sustainability. Education: B.Sc. and Ph.D. in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Milan, M.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry and Management Current Research: Developing ultrasound-assisted extraction , CO2 conversion , and floating photocatalysts for wastewater treatment Collaborations: Works with Canadian and international companies on sustainable chemical processes Scientific Awards include the Canada Research Chair Tier-2 (2016-2021), NSERC Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship (2013-2016), and FRQNT PBEEE Postdoctoral Fellowship (2013-2016). Advising has seen 5 Ph.D. and 9 Master's students graduate. She leads the Engineering Process Intensification and Catalysis (EPIC) Laboratory and is a member of the Institut de génie biomédical .

Andrew ZahrtView profile

Assistant Professor

• Organic Chemistry
• Data-Driven Reaction Development
• Automated Experimentation
• +3 more

Andrew Zahrt is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Arts & Sciences. His research focuses on integrating computational methods, automation, and machine learning to address challenges in organic chemistry. The Zahrt Group develops data-efficient workflows, automated experimentation systems, and machine learning tools to accelerate reaction optimization, catalyst design, and reaction discovery. Education: BS in Chemistry and Biology, Aquinas College (2014) PhD in Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2020) Postdoctoral Fellow, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2020–2023) Research emphasizes minimizing experimental burdens through automation and accessible computational pipelines. The group’s work spans reaction analysis, discovery, and mechanistic inquiry using interdisciplinary approaches. Their tools aim to be adaptable for labs without specialized equipment.

• Materials Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• +7 more

Yongxiang Li is a Professor in the School of Engineering at RMIT University, Australia, specializing in advanced materials and nanotechnology. His research focuses on piezoelectric materials, 2D functional materials, and energy harvesting systems. He is actively involved in supervision of PhD and Master’s projects, including topics like flexible piezoelectric nanogenerators, 2D heterostructures, and low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) sensors. Research Interests: Materials Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Nanotechnology, Condensed Matter Physics, and Functional Ceramic Design. Key projects include developing lead-free piezoelectric materials, integrating sensors for lithium-ion batteries, and exploring gas sensors using liquid metal-derived oxides. Teaching Interests: Dielectric materials, ferroelectric systems, sensor technologies, and LTCC applications. His interdisciplinary work bridges materials science with optoelectronics and energy storage. Publications span over 400 outputs, emphasizing machine learning-driven materials discovery, defect engineering in 2D materials, and sensor innovation. He leads projects in collaboration with industry, focusing on practical applications of advanced ceramics and nanomaterials.

Plamen AtanassovView profile

Professor

• Electrocatalysis
• Bio-electrocatalysis
• Energy Conversion
• +2 more

Plamen Atanassov is a Chancellor’s Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering with a joint appointment in Materials Science and Engineering at the Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine . His work focuses on developing advanced electrocatalysts for energy conversion and storage systems. Department: Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering Academic Rank: Professor (Chancellor’s Professor honorific) Research Themes: Electrocatalysis, Bio-electrocatalysis, Fuel Cells, Energy Harvesting Research Interests: Prof. Atanassov specializes in non-platinum and platinum-based electrocatalysts for fuel cells, bio-inspired energy systems , and carbon dioxide valorization technologies . His group has pioneered: Atomically dispersed metal-nitrogen-carbon catalysts Novel synthesis methods for durable electrocatalysts Machine learning-guided fuel cell optimization Electrochemical ammonia and urea production Hydrogen evolution reaction with non-precious metals Scientific Contributions: With over 380 peer-reviewed papers (101 h-index), 50 issued US patents , and 35+ PhD students advised , his work bridges fundamental electrochemistry and industrial-scale energy solutions. Recent publications emphasize catalyst durability under realistic conditions, CO2 reduction, and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Liang YuView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Biorefinery
• Circular Economy
• Environmental Engineering
• +7 more

Dr. Liang Yu is an Adjunct Professor at Washington State University (WSU) within the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS), Department of Biological Systems Engineering. He holds roles as a Guest Editor for the Journal of Fermentation (Energy Converter-Anaerobic Digestion), Faculty Senator for Non-Tenure Track Faculty, Anti-Hazing Advisory Committee member, and Review Committee member for undergraduate research scholarships at WSU. His research focuses on biorefinery-based industrial symbiosis and the circular economy, employing multi-scale mathematical modeling (molecular simulation, CFD, bioprocess control, machine learning) to optimize anaerobic digestion systems. His work aims to convert organic waste (animal manure, food waste) into renewable natural gas, fertilizers, and bioproducts. He has secured funding from the DOE and USDA, with over 60 peer-reviewed publications and five patents. Key research themes include hydrothermal pretreatment, ammonia recovery, microbial community dynamics, and techno-economic analysis. Recent articles emphasize anaerobic digestion innovation, biodesulfurization, and biohydrogen production. His contributions bridge environmental engineering, biotechnology, and sustainable systems design. Dr. Yu’s grants and patents reflect a commitment to applied sustainability solutions, with projects addressing agricultural waste valorization and energy recovery. Collaborative efforts drive his work, integrating computational modeling with experimental validation for scalable bioenergy systems.

David JacobsView profile

Professor

• Computer Vision
• Machine Learning
• Deep Learning
• +3 more

David W. Jacobs is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Maryland, with a joint appointment in the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (UMIACS). He holds a Ph.D. from MIT (1992) and has expertise in computer vision, machine learning, and deep learning. His research focuses on object recognition, lighting analysis, and applications like electronic field guides (e.g., Leafsnap and Birdsnap). He has been recognized with awards including the Honda Initiation Grant (2007) and the Edward O. Wilson Biodiversity Technology Pioneer Award (2011). Jacobs has taught courses such as CMSC 422 (Machine Learning) and CMSC 828L (Deep Learning), and advised multiple Ph.D. students. His work spans theoretical advancements and practical applications, including collaborations with institutions like the Smithsonian and Columbia University. Education: B.A. Yale, M.S./Ph.D. MIT Positions: Interim Director of UMIACS (2018), Program Co-Chair CVPR Key Projects: Leafsnap (1M+ downloads), Birdsnap Awards: CVPR Best Paper Honorable Mention (2000), Eurographics Best Paper (2016)

Ambarish KulkarniView profile

Assistant Professor

• Multi-scale molecular modeling
• Data science for materials discovery
• Catalysis
• +5 more

Ambarish Kulkarni is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of California, Davis. His research focuses on multi-scale molecular modeling, data science for materials discovery, catalysis, and separations. He combines quantum chemistry methods (e.g., wave function theory, density functional theory) with classical simulations and machine learning to design novel materials for applications in catalysis, energy storage, and environmental remediation. Specific areas of interest include methane activation, CO 2 capture, and heterogeneous electrocatalysis. His work bridges theory and experiment, collaborating with experimental groups to validate computational findings. Notable projects include: Developing catalysts with atomically dispersed metals for enhanced reactivity Designing zeolite materials for selective chemical transformations Creating machine learning workflows to accelerate material discovery Recent research highlights the role of water in CO 2 adsorption mechanisms, the dynamic behavior of confined nanoparticles, and redox-cycling phenomena in zeolite-embedded catalysts. His computational tools like the Multiscale Atomic Zeolite Simulation Environment (MAZE) enable detailed analysis of complex material behaviors. No scientific awards are explicitly listed in the provided information. His advising activities and grants are not detailed in the current data, but his extensive publication record indicates active research collaboration and funding support.

• Electrochemistry
• CO2 Electroreduction
• Water Splitting
• +6 more

Professor Chuan Zhao is a distinguished academic at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), serving as Professor at the School of Chemistry and head of the UNSW Nanoelectrochemistry Lab, which comprises approximately 30 researchers. He holds a Professorial Future Fellowship from the Australian Research Council and serves as Chair of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) Electrochemistry Division. His academic journey began with a PhD earned with excellence from Northwest University in 2002, followed by postdoctoral research at University of Oldenburg and Monash University. He joined UNSW as a Lecturer in October 2010 and was promoted to full Professor in 2017. Professor Zhao's research spans multiple cutting-edge areas in electrochemistry and energy conversion. His work focuses on CO 2 electroreduction, water splitting, hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions, proton batteries, and nanoelectrochemistry. His research group has made significant contributions to understanding catalyst interfaces, developing non-precious metal catalysts, and advancing industrial-scale electrochemical processes. The lab's work bridges fundamental electrochemical principles with practical applications in renewable energy technologies. Analysis of Professor Zhao's recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong emphasis on developing efficient electrocatalysts for energy conversion applications. His work demonstrates particular expertise in designing catalysts for CO 2 electroreduction to valuable products, hydrogen production through water electrolysis, and oxygen evolution reactions. A notable trend is the focus on industrial-scale applications, with several publications addressing ampere-level current density requirements for commercial viability. His research combines advanced materials synthesis with sophisticated electrochemical characterization techniques. Professor Zhao has received numerous prestigious recognitions including election as Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC), Fellow of RACI (FRACI), and Fellow of the Royal Society of New South Wales (FRSN). His most significant award is the Professorial Future Fellowship from the Australian Research Council, which supports his innovative research program. As head of the UNSW Nanoelectrochemistry Lab, Professor Zhao leads a substantial research team of approximately 30 researchers. His group collaborates extensively with other institutions and researchers globally, as evidenced by the diverse authorship on his publications. His research is supported by substantial grant funding, though specific grants aren't detailed in the provided information. The Nanoelectrochemistry Lab under Professor Zhao's leadership maintains strong connections with industry partners working on fuel cell technologies, electrolysis systems, and electrochemical CO 2 conversion. The lab facilities likely include advanced electrochemical workstations, materials synthesis capabilities, and characterization equipment necessary for cutting-edge electrocatalysis research.

• Sustainable Manufacturing
• Laser Processing
• Green Manufacturing
• +6 more

Paul Mativenga is a Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at The University of Manchester, leading research in sustainable and advanced manufacturing. His roles include strategic leadership of Social Responsibility and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion within the Faculty of Science and Engineering. He holds a PhD from the University of Liverpool and is a Member of the CIRP Academy for Production Engineering. Research focuses on resource-efficient manufacturing, laser processing, and circular economy strategies. Key interests include sustainable manufacturing technologies, energy reduction in machining, and recycling systems. He leads the Laser Processing Research Centre (LPRC) and collaborates on projects like the RE3 initiative for plastic recycling optimization. Recent work emphasizes carbon emission modeling in manufacturing, additive manufacturing optimization, and policy frameworks for industrial sustainability. He has supervised multiple PhD students and received the 2014 A M Strickland Prize for contributions to mechanical engineering. Active editorial roles include associate editorships at Elsevier and Sage Publications. His laboratory, the Laser Processing Research Laboratory, supports cutting-edge research in laser-material interactions and sustainable processes.

Jake M. YangView profile

Lecturer

• Electrochemistry
• Environmental Monitoring
• Sensor Development
• +7 more

Jake M. Yang is a Lecturer in Physical Chemistry at the School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, where he leads an interdisciplinary research group focused on electrochemistry and sustainable material processing. He holds a DPhil and MChem from the University of Oxford and was awarded an EPSRC Doctoral Prize in 2020 for developing electrochemical sensors to monitor oceanic 'blue carbon'. His research integrates operando electrochemistry with spectroscopic and fluorescent imaging to investigate chemical reactions at electrode interfaces and their environmental applications. He is particularly known for pioneering green recycling methods for lithium-ion batteries and fuel cell membranes. Electroanalysis and Sensor Instrumentation Operando opto/spectro-electrochemical instrumentation Recycling of Technological Critical Materials Monitoring Microplastics and Ocean Ecosystems Fundamental electrochemistry Finite difference simulations The recent publications highlight a strong trend toward sustainability-driven electrochemistry, with a focus on recycling technologies using ultrasound and vegetable oil nanoemulsions. These works bridge fundamental science with industrial applications, particularly in the circular economy of electronics and energy systems. Award Highlights: EPSRC Doctoral Prize Award RSC Horizon Prize 2024 (Faraday Institute ReLIB project) University of Leicester Chemistry Image of Research Competition, 1st Prize Jake actively mentors students and offers funded PhD opportunities. His work is supported by institutional and industry-aligned grants, particularly in sustainable battery and fuel cell recycling. He collaborates across disciplines, including Earth Sciences and engineering, and promotes knowledge transfer through public engagement and media outreach. He is a key member of the Centre for Sustainable Material Processing and leads research on techno-economic analysis of recycling processes, ensuring scientific innovation meets real-world industrial and environmental needs.

• Artificial Intelligence
• Computer Gaming and Animation
• Computer Graphics
• +4 more

Yingying Wang is an Assistant Professor in the Computing and Software department at McMaster University , where she joined in January 2022. Her research focuses on generating expressive animations for AR/VR applications and games through interdisciplinary approaches combining Computer Graphics , Artificial Intelligence , and Human Behavior Analysis . Education : Bachelor and Master degrees from Nanjing University , Ph.D. from University of California, Davis (2017) Her research explores: Generative models for human motion style transfer Physics-based motion simulation Audio-driven character synthesis Dance choreography for virtual characters Cartoon animation perception Conversational character gesture synthesis Markerless hand motion capture Recent publications focus on 3D hand pose estimation , motion style transfer , gesture-locomotion coordination , and personality perception in virtual agents . Key methodologies include deep learning , multimodal data analysis , and real-time animation systems . Scientific contributions recognized through: $240,000 Labarge Catalyst Grant in Mobility in Aging (interdisciplinary team award) US Patent 10,796,482 (3D hand pose estimation) US Patent 9,811,937 (gesture-locomotion coordination) Teaching includes graduate and undergraduate courses in Computer Animation (CAS 737), Computer Graphics (COMPSCI 3GC3/SFWRENG 3GC3), and Software Development (COMPSCI 2ME3). Research group actively recruits Ph.D. and Master's students in graphics + deep learning domains.

• Catalysis Engineering
• Green Chemistry
• Biofuels
• +3 more

Professor Jun Huang is a faculty member in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Sydney, where he holds the rank of Professor and is Director of the Laboratory for Catalysis Engineering. He is also a Domain Leader for Materials at the nanoscale at Sydney Nano Institute and a member of several interdisciplinary institutes, including the China Studies Centre and Sydney Institute of Agriculture. His research focuses on catalysis engineering, with an emphasis on developing sustainable processes for renewable fuels, pollutant treatment, and greenhouse gas mitigation. Huang has held prestigious awards such as the Australia Research Council Future Fellowship (2022) and the Sydney Accelerator Fellowship (2018). Education: Huang earned his PhD from the University of Stuttgart (2008) and completed postdoctoral research at Georgia Institute of Technology and ETH Zurich. He joined the University of Sydney in 2010 as a Lecturer, advancing to Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Professor. Research Interests: Huang's work centers on catalyst design for green chemical processes, including biomass conversion to biofuels, wastewater treatment, and CO2 utilization. He emphasizes sustainable manufacturing and environmental impact reduction through innovative catalytic systems. Current Projects: These include catalytic transformation of hydrocarbons/CO2/biomass, nano-catalysts for renewable energy, and advanced NMR spectroscopy for catalysis analysis. Collaborative projects involve anti-cancer therapies and drug pharmacology studies. Awards: Over 15 awards, including the 2021 ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering Lectureship and 2017 Vice-Chancellor’s Research Excellence Award. Teaching: Huang instructs courses such as CHNG2801 (Conservation Processes), CHNG3802 (Industrial Systems), and advanced chemical engineering topics. He supervises PhD/Master students in catalysis and sustainable engineering. Labs/Teams: Leads the Catalysis Engineering Lab and collaborates with Sydney Nano Institute on nanomaterials research.