Prof. Dr. Dieter Hanelt is a faculty member at the University of Hamburg , affiliated with the Faculty of Mathematics, Computer Science and Natural Sciences and the Department of Biology under the Institute of Plant Sciences and Microbiology . His research focuses on Aquatic Ecophysiology and Phycology , with particular emphasis on microalgal applications in biofuels, wastewater treatment, and climate change adaptation. Key Research Areas: Algal biotechnology, epigenetic responses to stress, genetic diversity in marine plants, CO2 mitigation, and sustainable wastewater treatment. Recent Publications span topics such as optimizing astaxanthin production in Haematococcus, epigenetic changes in field elms, and microalgae-based solutions for aquaculture and food waste recycling. Collaborations include researchers like Abdelfatah Abomohra , Klaus von Schwartzenberg , and Malika Ainouche in projects related to genetic diversity, biofuel production, and environmental sustainability. Facilities involve the Microalgae and Zygnematophyceae Collection Hamburg (MZCH) , a living culture collection with 550+ algal strains.
Beatriz Baselga-Cervera is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior at the College of Biological Sciences, University of Minnesota. Her research integrates microbial experimental evolution and bioprospecting to address questions spanning ecology, evolution, and genetics. Current research focuses on: Bioprospecting microalgae/bacteria from extreme environments for adaptation and biotechnology studies Evolution of complexity through genotype-phenotype-environment interactions during multicellularity transitions Experimental evolution and bioprospecting integration to study freshwater microbial diversity She specializes in microbial interactions, global change impacts on evolution, and discovery of novel biological functions with potential biotechnological applications. Dr. Baselga-Cervera also leads community-centered outreach programs targeting Spanish-speaking communities, emphasizing mentoring and field/laboratory research integration.
Per Erik Vullum is an Associate Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), based at Realfagbygget, D4-106, Gløshaugen campus (Høgskoleringen 5). His research spans materials science with emphasis on lithium-ion battery systems, electron microscopy characterization, and welding of dissimilar metals. Contact details: per.vullum@ntnu.no, +4773593486, +4793016522. Primary research interests include: Battery materials (silicon anodes, layered oxide cathodes, solid electrolytes) Intermetallic phase formation in aluminum-copper/steel welds Advanced microscopy techniques (TEM, STEM, in situ characterization) Industrial catalysis for energy and chemical processes Additive manufacturing of high-strength alloys Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals dominant focus on battery technology (8 articles, 53%), particularly silicon anode degradation and cathode cracking mechanisms. Secondary themes include dissimilar metal joining (4 articles, 27%) and electron microscopy (2 articles, 13%), with one catalysis study. Collaborative work with SINTEF and industry partners is evident through co-authors on welding and subsea cable projects. Scientific awards: No awards mentioned in the source text Advising and grants: The provided text does not reference any PhD/Master's students, grants, or funding sources. His collaborative publications suggest team-based research but omit specific grant details. Labs and teams: Vullum operates within NTNU's materials research ecosystem, likely connected to electron microscopy facilities given his TEM-focused publications. His SINTEF blog contribution indicates active collaboration with Norway's applied research sector, particularly in subsea cable and battery projects.
Arnd G. Heyer is a Professor at the University of Stuttgart , leading the Department of Plant Biotechnology within the Institute of Biomaterials and Biomolecular Systems (IBBS). His research focuses on plant stress physiology, carbohydrate metabolism, and systems biology approaches to understanding metabolic and physiological responses to environmental challenges. Heyer’s work explores the molecular and subcellular mechanisms underlying cold acclimation and freezing tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana , including the roles of metabolites like proline and raffinose. He investigates nitrogen-carbon balance under elevated CO2, diurnal assimilate transport dynamics, and metabolic modeling of plant responses to abiotic stress. His studies often integrate mathematical modeling with experimental data to uncover systemic regulatory bottlenecks. Recent publications highlight his expertise in subcellular metabolic reprogramming during cold stress, gas exchange in leafless orchids, and applications of photobioreactors for microalgae cultivation in space missions. While the summary does not list specific awards or advisees, his collaborative work spans plant physiology, bioinformatics, and environmental adaptation studies.
Dr Neil Cagney is a Lecturer and Director of Outreach, Recruitment and Admissions at the School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London. His academic career focuses on experimental fluid dynamics with particular emphasis on fluid-structure interactions and complex fluid behavior. Dr Cagney leads outreach initiatives to attract and admit students to the engineering programs at Queen Mary. Dr Cagney received his undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from Trinity College Dublin, followed by a PhD from University College London in 2013 under the supervision of Prof. Stavroula Balabani. His doctoral research examined the vortex-induced vibration of structures, establishing the foundation for his current research interests. Dr Cagney's research centers on experimental analysis of fluid flows, with particular expertise in fluid-structure interaction, flow-induced vibrations, mixing and dynamics in complex fluids. His current research portfolio includes work on Vertical Axis Wind Turbines, energy harvesting from stall flutter, and viscoelastic turbulence. His interdisciplinary approach bridges engineering fundamentals with practical applications in renewable energy, water treatment, and industrial processes. The experimental nature of his work often involves sophisticated measurement techniques to capture complex flow phenomena in controlled environments. Analysis of Dr Cagney's recent publications reveals a strong focus on Taylor-Couette flow phenomena, particularly examining how viscoelastic and shear-thinning properties affect flow instabilities and transitions. His work spans multiple applications including energy harvesting systems, microfluidic mixing, dental aerosol dynamics, and microalgae processing for biofuels. This diverse portfolio demonstrates his ability to apply fundamental fluid dynamics principles to solve practical engineering challenges across different sectors. Small-scale vertical-axis wind turbines for backup domestic electricity generation in rural South African communities (£134,505 from Royal Society, 2024-2027) The Jetting of Complex Inks for Industrial Inkjet Technologies - KTP (£196,454 from Innovate UK, 2022-2024) Dr Cagney serves as module organiser for EMS460U Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics and EMS521U Cardiovascular Fluid Mechanics. His teaching directly connects with his research expertise, providing students with insights into both fundamental principles and cutting-edge applications of fluid dynamics. His outreach role demonstrates commitment to expanding engineering education access and diversity. Dr Cagney is affiliated with the Centre for Intelligent Transport at Queen Mary University of London, where his research on fluid dynamics contributes to transportation-related challenges including energy harvesting systems and fluid flow optimization. His collaborative work with researchers across disciplines highlights the interdisciplinary nature of modern engineering research.
Dr. Mehrnaz Keyhanfar serves as a Senior Lecturer at Flinders University's College of Medicine and Public Health (CMPH) since 2019, where she specializes in medical biochemistry and pharmacology education. Her academic journey spans international institutions with expertise in protein chemistry, drug delivery systems, and plant-derived therapeutics. Her educational credentials include: Graduate Certificate in Clinical Education (2022), Flinders University PhD in Biotechnology/Biochemistry (2005), The University of Adelaide Pharm D (Pharmacy Doctorate) (1998), Isfahan University of Medical Sciences Dr. Keyhanfar's research bridges molecular biochemistry with practical applications in disease diagnosis and targeted therapy. She investigates protein structure-function relationships, pharmaceutical biotechnology approaches for drug delivery, and plant secondary metabolite production for therapeutic use. Her work emphasizes translating molecular insights into clinical solutions for human diseases. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a dominant focus on nanotechnology applications spanning 2017-2024. Key themes include antimicrobial nanoparticle development for aquaculture and medical device coatings, plant-based nanomaterial synthesis, and targeted cancer drug delivery systems. Her work consistently connects biochemical principles with practical solutions in pharmacology and biotechnology. As an active educator, Dr. Keyhanfar serves as Topic Coordinator for Biochemistry of Human Disease and Molecular Foundations of Medicine courses while lecturing across multiple medical science programs. She contributes to institutional leadership as a Flinders Learning and Teaching Academy member, Academic Integrity Officer, and Australian Institute of Medical Scientists Accreditation Working Group leader. Her professional engagement extends to the Teaching Specialist Community of Practice, Early and Mid-Career Academic Network, and Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, demonstrating commitment to both medical education advancement and biochemical research innovation.
Ewa Maria Długosz is a Lecturer at the Institute of Chemistry, University of Opole, specializing in pharmacology and pharmacy with 100% focus in this scientific discipline. Her research centers on natural bioactive compounds , particularly examining honey, bee pollen, microalgae, flavonoids, and phenolic acids . Dr. Długosz investigates their neuroprotective properties and potential pharmaceutical applications, with implications for disease prevention and management of civilization-related disorders. With 3 published works yielding a total impact factor of 2.7, SNIP of 1.909, and CiteScore of 5.7, her research demonstrates meaningful scholarly contribution. The ministerial score of 280 reflects recognition within the Polish academic evaluation system.
Dr. Abinandan Sudharsanam is a Research Fellow at the University of Newcastle , affiliated with the School of Environmental and Life Sciences . His career spans environmental engineering, biotechnology, and sustainability, with expertise in microalgal applications , soil health , and risk management . Education: Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Remediation, University of Newcastle Master of Technology in Energy and Environmental Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, India Research Interests: Abinandan's work focuses on: Advancing a Circular Approach for a Low-Carbon Society through bioresource recovery and sustainable practices. Improving Soil Health using microalgal carriers and rhizobacterial interactions. Developing Natural-Based Carbon Negative Emission Technologies via algal carbon capture and eco-innovations in wine production. Scientific Contributions: His 15 most recent articles (2025-2016) address topics like algal wastewater treatment , soil microbiome enrichment , acid mine drainage remediation , and biodiesel optimization . Keywords span Environmental Engineering , Biotechnology , and Renewable Energy , with sub-fields including Microalgal-Bacterial Consortia , Carbon Sequestration , and Circular Bioeconomy . Awards & Invitations: Recognized with the Australian Postgraduate Award (2016) International Post Graduate Research Award (2016) Keynote Speaker at the 2023 Soil Amelioration Conference Teaching & Collaboration: He has served as a Lecturer for courses like Applied Environmental Microbiology and Enviromics and Biostatistics (2020). Collaborations include work with Praveen Kuppan on carbon-neutral wine production and Megharaj Mallavarapu on algal biotechnology projects.
Paolo Bombelli is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Cambridge, working within the Howe Group led by Professor Chris Howe. He is affiliated with the Cambridge Global Food Security interdisciplinary research center, specializing in Plant Biology and Food Security and Food and Health research themes. Dr. Bombelli's research focuses on developing bio-photovoltaic (BPV) systems and plant bio-electrochemical systems (plant-BES), exploring how photosynthetic organisms like cyanobacteria, microalgae, and vascular plants can generate electrical current in electrochemical setups. His work spans biological electron transport mechanisms, microfluidic BPV devices, electrogenic activity of plants and mosses, and solar-powered hydrogen generation. He has pioneered significant advancements in power output from BPV systems, achieving over 5-fold increases in power density through micro-scale devices. Analysis of Dr. Bombelli's publications reveals a consistent focus on optimizing bio-photovoltaic systems across multiple dimensions: electrode materials engineering, microfluidic device design, genetic modification of photosynthetic organisms, and exploration of diverse plant species for energy generation. His research bridges fundamental biological mechanisms with practical engineering applications in renewable energy. His scientific contributions have been recognized through notable awards: The People's Choice Icon award (Anglia Ruskin 2012) Lápiz de Acero award, Colombia, South America, 2012 Dr. Bombelli has established extensive collaborations across academia and industry, working with researchers from Imperial College London, University of Edinburgh, University of Cape Town, and commercial partners including Anaero Technology, Lamda Stretch, and LEITAT. He has also led translational projects that bridge laboratory research with public engagement through collaborations with designers on the Moss Table, MossFM (the world's first plant-powered radio), and the Plant to Power (P2P) solar hub at Cambridge Botanical Garden. His laboratory work is conducted within the Howe Group at the Department of Biochemistry's Hopkins Building, where he contributes to the group's broader mission of applying photosynthesis research to renewable energy production and environmental solutions, including the innovative Moss at the Zoo (M@Z) project that demonstrates moss-based bioelectrochemical systems to visitors at the London Zoo.
Dr. Dale McClure serves as a Senior Lecturer in the Chemical Engineering Department within Brunel University London's College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences. He joined Brunel in May 2021 after working at the University of Sydney's Centre for Advanced Food Engineering, bringing extensive expertise in industrial biotechnology and bioreactor systems. His educational background includes a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Sydney (2014) and undergraduate degrees in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (2010). PhD in Chemical Engineering, University of Sydney (2014) Bachelor's degrees in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (2010) Dr. McClure's research centers on sustainable production of high-value compounds for food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries through industrial biotechnology. He specializes in transforming waste streams into valuable products using microalgae and fermentation systems, with core expertise in bioreactor design, scale-up, and computational modeling. His work integrates computational fluid dynamics with experimental validation to optimize industrial bioprocesses, emphasizing environmental sustainability and commercial viability. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals three dominant research thrusts: (1) Sustainable bioproduction of nutraceuticals (omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins) using microalgae, (2) Computational modeling of industrial bioreactors with focus on hydrodynamics and mixing, and (3) Novel environmental applications including PFAS degradation using plasma technology. These publications demonstrate consistent industrial relevance with multiple commercialization outcomes. His significant scientific recognition includes: Science and Innovation Award for Young People in Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (2018) European Society of Biochemical Engineering Bioprocess Engineering Design Prize (2016) Australian Postgraduate Award (2011) MIPPs Scholarship (2009) Multiple Dean's List honors and the Amcor Prize for Chemical Engineering Excellence (2007-2008) Dr. McClure actively supervises PhD research on sustainable production of high-value compounds using cyanobacteria and vitamin K1, while leading significant industry collaborations that have resulted in commercialized bioprocesses. His teaching portfolio includes module leadership for CL1620 (Introduction to Chemical Engineering), CL2602 (Chemical Engineers Toolbox), and CL3601 (Process Control), where he integrates his industrial experience into curriculum development. He directs a multidisciplinary research group specializing in computational and experimental bioreactor engineering, with facilities for microalgae cultivation, fermentation, and advanced CFD modeling. The team maintains strong industry partnerships focused on developing scalable, sustainable bioprocesses for high-value compound production.
Dr. Thomas Henkel is a Researcher at the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, leading the Microfluidics Research Group since 2002. His work focuses on microsystem technology for biotechnological applications, particularly in biophotonics, environmental monitoring, and drug discovery. Research Interests: Dr. Henkel's research spans Microfluidics and Lab-on-a-chip systems Imaging flow cytometry (IFC) and tomographic IFC (tIFC) Bioparticle characterization Plasmonic sensing Automated screening platforms Environmental safety applications Publication Trends: Over the past five years, Dr. Henkel has developed microfluidic systems for high-throughput bioparticle analysis, including astaxanthin-producing Haematococcus pluvialis monitoring, hepatitis B drug screening, and Legionella detection. His work combines multispectral imaging, machine learning, and innovative fluid dynamics to enable label-free cell sorting and real-time process monitoring. Labs & Teams: As group leader, he collaborates with interdisciplinary teams at Leibniz-IPHT, integrating photonic technology, materials science, and biotechnology to advance microfluidic applications in medical and environmental fields.
Prof. Boris Duralija serves as a Full Professor in the Department of Pomology, Division for Horticulture and Landscape Architecture at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb. His teaching portfolio includes specialized courses such as Maslina i maslinova ulja (Olive and Olive Oils), Fiziologija voćaka (Fruit Physiology), and Primijenjene tehnologije uzgoja voća (Applied Fruit Growing Technologies), reflecting his deep expertise in pomological sciences. His research spans Pomology , Wild Fruits , Berry Fruits , Biodiversity conservation , Fruit Quality assessment , and Sustainable production systems . International collaborations include research stays at USAID (Ventura, USA), the Pomology Institute in Changli (China), and Universita degli Studi di Perugia (Italy), demonstrating his global engagement in horticultural science. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2022-2025) reveals dominant research trajectories in strawberry biotechnology (edible coatings, 3D food printing, ultrasound processing), wild fruit conservation (Arbutus unedo, Fragaria species), and emerging pest management (brown marmorated stink bug). His work consistently bridges fundamental pomology with applied sustainable practices, particularly in Mediterranean fruit systems. Prof. Duralija has coordinated over 10 major research projects including EU-funded initiatives like 'Očuvanje, održivo korištenje i razvoj genetskih izvora u poljoprivredi' (2024) and COST networks focused on cherry production. His grant portfolio spans Croatian science funds (MZOS, MZO), EU rural development programs, and university-specific grants targeting morphological characterization technologies (WinSEEDLE™, WinFOLIA™) and student practice enhancement.
Jørgen Lerfall is a Professor and Head of the Food Science Division at the Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). His research focuses on optimizing raw material and product quality in fish and seafood processing, with specialization in Atlantic salmon and cod. He coordinates NTNU's priority research area 'Optimal utilization of the ocean's natural resources' (OptiMat) and leads multiple funded projects. Research interests center on: Processing technologies (salt curing, drying, smoking, heat processing) Quality characterization (chemical, physicochemical, physical, sensorial, microbial) Shelf-life extension through innovative methods like soluble gas stabilization Advanced analytical techniques including spectroscopy and chromatography Recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate strong focus on: Seafood preservation technologies (soluble gas stabilization, superchilling) Quality optimization across species (salmon, cod, plaice, sea urchin) Sustainable packaging solutions and smart indicators Nutritional and biochemical mechanisms in aquaculture He directs significant research infrastructure including UHPLC-DAD, HPLC systems, GC-FID, Raman spectrometers, and texture analyzers. Current projects focus on renewable salmon pigments, Listeria control in seafood chains, and commercializing soluble gas stabilization technology.
Hongjun Liang, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), with an additional appointment as Adjunct faculty in Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at Texas Tech University. His research is affiliated with the Center for Membrane Research and the Membrane Protein Core Laboratory at TTUHSC. Dr. Liang's research focuses on membrane biophysics and bioengineering, with particular emphasis on understanding and controlling molecular recognition and transport across nanoscale membrane boundaries. His laboratory works to bridge biology with synthetic systems through materials discovery, designing novel synthetic materials that can participate in biological processes and adapt biological functions for use in harsher, non-biological conditions. Current projects include membrane protein functions in synthetic proteomembranes, membrane-active antimicrobials and biofilm mitigation, and nanoparticle-based membrane-targeting theranostic platforms. Analysis of Dr. Liang's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on membrane protein research, nanodisc technology, and the development of novel antimicrobial and cancer treatment platforms. His work demonstrates expertise in creating synthetic membrane systems, studying protein-lipid interactions, and developing environmentally responsive nanomaterials with applications in drug delivery and diagnostics. Several publications have received notable recognition as ACS Editor's Choice Articles and Cover Stories. Dr. Liang actively mentors graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, with his laboratory currently advertising open positions for those interested in membrane biophysics and bioengineering research. His collaborative work spans multiple disciplines including physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Dr. Liang leads research efforts within TTUHSC's Center for Membrane Research, where his laboratory develops and applies advanced techniques including synchrotron small angle x-ray scattering to study membrane structure and function. His team works on several key projects targeting cancer treatment, drug delivery, and antimicrobial development with practical applications in medical therapeutics and environmental safety.
Erik Grönlund is a Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor at Mid Sweden University, affiliated with the Department of Natural Science, Design and Sustainable Development. His work bridges environmental science, ecological engineering, and systems ecology, with a focus on sustainability assessment and emergy analysis. Research Interests: Systems ecology, emergy analysis, ecological engineering, CCS/BECCS, wastewater treatment in cold climates. Teaching: Courses in ecological engineering, systems ecology, environmental accounting, and sustainable development. Erik’s publications highlight trends in urban metabolism , emergy applications , and sustainability modeling for wastewater systems, regional development, and ecosystem services. He has contributed to Scandinavian Emergy Symposia and edited conference proceedings. Notable projects include PFAS contamination treatment and bioenergy with microalgae . His methodological focus on emergy accounting and systems sustainability provides frameworks for cold climate adaptations and policy analysis. Contact: erik.gronlund@miun.se
