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James McDonaldView profile

Academic

• Microbial Ecology
• Microbiome Analysis
• Environmental Genomics
• +12 more

James McDonald is an Honorary Professor in the School of Environmental and Natural Sciences at Bangor University, where he leads research in microbial ecology, microbiome analysis, and environmental genomics. His work spans tree health (notably Acute Oak Decline), wastewater pathogen surveillance, and biomass-degrading microbial communities. He has held previous positions as Professor of Environmental Genomics and Senior Lecturer at the same institution. PhD in Microbial Ecology, University of Liverpool BSc in Microbiology with Industrial Experience, University of Manchester His research integrates molecular techniques such as genomics, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and metaproteomics to study microbial communities in environmental systems. Key interests include the oak microbiome in health and disease, anaerobic biomass degradation, and engineered microbiomes for biotechnology. He actively supervises postgraduate researchers and welcomes inquiries on these topics. The recent publications reflect a strong focus on environmental microbiology, with themes including wastewater virology (especially SARS-CoV-2 monitoring), forest pathology, microbial diversity in extreme environments, and methodological advances in microbiome profiling. His team frequently employs high-throughput 'omics' technologies and culture-based methods. Adoption of viral environmental surveillance tools to protect public health during the COVID-19 pandemic [REF2021] Professor McDonald has led or contributed to numerous funded research projects, including FUTURE OAK, SYNBIOGAS, and BACSTOP, often in collaboration with government and industrial partners. His work has been instrumental in applying ecological and evolutionary theory to microbiome dynamics. He has also contributed to the development of protocols for pathogen detection in environmental samples and has published in top journals such as Nature , ISME Journal , and Environmental Microbiology . He is affiliated with research initiatives focused on sustainable development and environmental protection, and his lab maintains an active research presence with data shared via platforms like ZENODO.

Alicia BerardView profile

Assistant Professor

• Female Reproductive Health
• Mucosal Biology
• Immunology
• +2 more

Dr. Alicia Berard is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at the University of Manitoba , with cross-appointments in Immunology (University of Manitoba) and Pathology (Case Western Reserve University). She operates the Berard Lab at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba , focusing on female reproductive health through multi-omic systems biology. PhD in Medical Microbiology (University of Manitoba, 2015) BSc (Biochemistry, University of Winnipeg, 2006) Her research examines how microbiome-host interactions drive conditions like bacterial vaginosis, HPV/cervical cancer, infertility, and HIV susceptibility using: Metaproteomics and metabolomics 3D in vitro co-culture models International clinical cohorts (THRIVE studies) Recent publications (2023-2025) reveal key roles for mTOR signaling in vaginal epithelial dysfunction and age-related microbiome shifts that increase inflammation. She has received major funding from CIHR and NIH as co-investigator. Awards include: 2024 CIHR New Investigator Forum Travel Awardee 2016-18 HIVR4P Registration Scholarship Multiple MHRC and CIHR student awards She actively engages in community-driven research through educational forums and leads clinical cohorts at Shared Health and Heartland Fertility Clinics .

• Mineralogy
• Petrology
• Geochemistry
• +19 more

Elsa Maria Carvalho Gomes is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at the Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, where she has been a faculty member since 2001. She is affiliated with the Center for Earth and Space Research of the University of Coimbra (CITEUC), contributing to research and academic life in geosciences. PhD in Geology, University of Coimbra (2001) Specialization: Mineralogy, Petrology, and Geochemistry Licentiate in Geology, University of Coimbra (1986) Her research interests are broad and interdisciplinary, focusing on Mineralogy, Petrology, and Geochemistry of igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly in the context of ore deposits and metallogenesis. She also investigates Environmental Geology , especially atmospheric particles in urban and mining areas, using biomonitoring and magnetic methods. A significant part of her work is dedicated to the History of Science , particularly science museums and historical geological collections, and Science Teaching , including curriculum development and teacher training. Her recent publications span from petrological studies of fulgurites and metamorphic rocks to environmental monitoring in Angola and Portugal, and historical analyses of mineral collections. The research trends reflect a strong integration of field geology, laboratory analysis, and educational outreach, with recurring themes in geochemical fingerprinting, urban pollution, and science heritage. She has received research funding from the European Union and the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, including projects on deep mineral prospecting and science education. Her advisory role includes supervising Master’s theses on topics ranging from tungsten tailings to urban water quality and geological education. She has co-organized scientific events such as the XXII Bienal de la Real Sociedad Española de Historia Natural and the 2nd Meeting on the History of Science in Teaching, and has served on scientific committees for national geology congresses.

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• Liver Research
• +3 more

Gianina Dumitriu is employed as a Chief Engineer in the Department of Medical Biology at UiT The Arctic University of Norway. Her work involves managing multiple research projects focusing on molecular biology techniques, cell culture methods, microscopy, and immunostaining protocols. She is also responsible for HSE (Health, Safety, Environment) coordination and acts as a safety representative within the department. Her research interests center on liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC) biology, including their roles in scavenger function, viral uptake, and responses to pharmacological agents. She has contributed extensively to studies on mitophagy, mitochondrial dynamics, and signaling pathways involving protein kinases such as MK5 and RSK1. Her work bridges molecular mechanisms with translational applications in liver fibrosis, cancer biology, and virology. Gianina has authored/co-authored over 13 peer-reviewed publications since 2010, with recent work focusing on LSEC responses to dexamethasone (2024) and fibrosis-related scavenger dysfunction (2023). Her research often employs mouse models, cryopreservation techniques, and advanced microscopy approaches. She is a member of the Vascular Biology Research Group and collaborates on the Sugar Crush project, investigating vascular mechanisms in health and disease. No awards or grants are explicitly listed in the provided text.

MIGUEL MAURICIO IGLESIASView profile

Professor

• Environmental Biotechnology
• Biorefinery Design
• Metabolic Modeling
• +4 more

Miguel Mauricio Iglesias is a Full Professor at the Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), affiliated with the Higher Technical School of Engineering and the Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Environmental Technologies (CRETUS). He leads the BIOGROUP Environmental Biotechnology research group. His academic journey includes a BSc in Chemical Engineering (USC, 2006), a PhD in Food Technology (University of Montpellier, 2009), and a postdoctoral fellowship at the Technical University of Denmark (2010–2014) before joining USC as a Marie Curie IEF fellow. Research focuses on modeling-driven solutions for chemical and bioprocess engineering challenges, particularly waste-to-chemical conversion. Key areas include metabolic modeling for VFA (volatile fatty acid) production from organic waste, LCA-based efficiency assessments in wastewater treatment, and biorefinery design. His ENERWATER methodology became the European standard (CEN/TR 17614:2021) for energy efficiency in wastewater plants. He develops hybrid models for real-time process monitoring, such as in lignocellulosic ethanol fermentation, and explores microbial community dynamics in anaerobic systems. Publications emphasize optimizing VFA production from diverse waste streams (fish canning, dairy, agricultural residues), bioplastics lifecycle analysis, and energy benchmarking frameworks. His work bridges computational tools with experimental validation to advance circular bioeconomy goals, including protein fermentation valorization and biofilm-based nitrogen removal systems. Awards include the establishment of the ENERWATER European standard. His lab integrates metabolic models, stochastic optimization, and data analytics to address climate change impacts on the dairy sector and biorefinery scalability. Collaborations focus on active packaging design and industrial internship impacts on chemical engineering education.

• Environmental Science
• Cultural Heritage Conservation
• Soil Science
• +3 more

Elsa Fuentes Alonso is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), affiliated with the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry under the Faculty of Pharmacy. Her research focuses on the impact of climate change on phototrophic biofilms colonizing cultural heritage materials, particularly granite structures. She completed her doctoral thesis in 2023 under the supervision of Dra. Beatriz Prieto Lamas, examining climate change effects on biodeterioration processes in monumental heritage. Key areas include biofilm interactions, environmental stressors like temperature and CO2, and eco-friendly cleaning methods for heritage conservation. Her work integrates microbiology, environmental chemistry, and materials science to address biodeterioration mechanisms and preservation strategies. Notable projects involve laboratory simulations of climate change impacts on biofilm development and evaluation of natural-based biocides for heritage surfaces. She collaborates with the GEMAP research group (Group of Environmental Studies Applied to Natural and Cultural Heritage), focusing on interdisciplinary approaches to heritage material degradation. Publications emphasize methodological advancements in biofilm cultivation, color measurement techniques for soil-plant studies, and the role of moisture dynamics in masonry colonization. Her research bridges fundamental science with applied conservation challenges, contributing to sustainable solutions for cultural heritage preservation in a changing climate.

Christian TimmView profile

Lecturer

• Health Geography
• Environmental Health
• Water and Sanitation
• +7 more

Dr. Christian Timm is a Lecturer at the Institute of Hygiene and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bonn, and is affiliated with the GeoHealth Centre at the University Hospital Bonn. He is actively involved in teaching and research, with a focus on health geography, environmental health, and water-related public health risks. His current teaching includes 'Advanced Interface Human Geography / Physical Geography - Introduction to Health Geography' in the Summer Semester 2025. Doctorate in Natural Sciences (Dr. rer. nat.) Christian Timm's research centers on the intersection of geography, hygiene, and public health, particularly in the areas of water safety, antibiotic resistance in wastewater, and health risk assessment. His work applies methodologies such as QMRA (Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment) and DALY (Disability-Adjusted Life Years) to evaluate health impacts from environmental exposures. He investigates socio-ecological factors in disease outbreaks, stormwater management, and urban green spaces, contributing to planetary health and sustainable urban development. His recent publications (2013–2023) reflect a consistent focus on water and health, including antibiotic resistance in clinical and municipal wastewater, river bathing safety, and drinking water in disaster contexts. The research spans environmental microbiology, analytical chemistry, and socio-geographic modeling, demonstrating an interdisciplinary approach to public health challenges. Ethikprüfung in der Geographie - Ergebnisse der Mitgliederbefragung und Einladung zum Panel im Rahmen des DKG Sozio-ökologische Analyse eines Trinkwasser-bedingten Krankheitsausbruchs in Deutschland Verbesserung der Trinkwasserversorgung im Katastrophenfall in Kamerun Gesundheitsdeterminante Wasser Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry as a fast and simple method for the determination of several antibiotics in different aqueous matrices Dr. Timm has been involved in several research projects, including HyReKA, INTEWAR, and Sichere Ruhr, focusing on water-associated diseases, antibiotic resistance control, and safe bathing and drinking water in the Ruhr region. He collaborates with Prof. Kistemann and other researchers across environmental, clinical, and geographical disciplines. Although no formal advising or grant details are listed, his extensive co-authorship suggests active mentorship and team-based research. He is a member of research groups such as the Environmental Microbiology group and the Culture | Water | Health group.

• Microbiology
• Microbial Diversity
• Taxogenomics
• +5 more

Rosa Aznar Novella is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology A at the Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Valencia. She is actively engaged in microbiological research with a focus on biotechnology and microbial systematics. Her research interests lie primarily in Microbiology , Microbial Diversity , and Taxogenomics , with applications in biotechnology. She contributes to the R&D+i activities of the Spanish Type Culture Collection (CECT), a key resource for microbial strains and taxonomic research. Her early work centered on the phenotypic and genotypic characterization of environmental Pseudomonas strains, laying the foundation for her continued work in bacterial systematics and environmental microbiology. Although no publications are listed in the provided text, her research trajectory suggests a strong emphasis on the integration of molecular and phenotypic methods for the classification and utilization of prokaryotes, particularly in environmental and biotechnological contexts. Scientific Awards: No scientific awards mentioned in the provided text. Advising and Grants: Dr. Aznar completed her doctoral studies under the supervision of Dr. Esperanza Garay Aubán. While current advisees and grant funding are not specified, her leadership in the CECT R&D+i group indicates active mentorship and research project involvement. Labs and Teams: She is a key member of the CECT I+D+i R&D+i of the Spanish Type Culture Collection (CECT): Microbiology at the service of Biotechnology research group and was previously involved in the TAXGEN-PRO Microbial Diversity and Taxogenomics of Prokaryotes group.

Nancy PleshkoView profile

Professor

• Bioengineering
• Vibrational Spectroscopy
• Molecular Imaging of Tissues
• +12 more

Nancy Pleshko is a Professor in the Department of Bioengineering at the College of Engineering, Temple University, where she holds the Laura H. Carnell Professor title. She leads the Tissue Imaging & Spectroscopy Laboratory and is actively engaged in research and teaching in bioengineering, with a focus on molecular and structural analysis of connective tissues. Her research interests include: Molecular Imaging of Tissues & Cells Spectroscopic Analysis Techniques for Cartilage and Bone Pathologies Tissue Engineering Contribution of Molecular Alterations in Connective Tissue on Mechanical Behavior MicroCT & Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Connective Tissues Dr. Pleshko's recent publications (2020–2025) demonstrate a consistent focus on vibrational spectroscopy (FTIR, O-PTIR, NIR) to assess bone and cartilage composition, hydration, and mechanical properties. Her work spans from fundamental developmental biology to translational applications in tissue engineering and clinical diagnostics, often involving collaborations with orthopedic and biomedical researchers. She has made significant contributions to non-invasive assessment methods and understanding of bone water dynamics and biofilm infections. Scientific awards and honors: Laura H. Carnell Professor, Temple University Dr. Pleshko has secured over $5 million in federal funding, reflecting the impact and innovation of her research. She mentors several students and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom appear as co-authors on her publications. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses such as Research Design and Methods in Bioengineering and Applied Biospectroscopy , contributing significantly to bioengineering education. She leads the Tissue Imaging & Spectroscopy Laboratory, which specializes in advanced spectroscopic and imaging techniques for biomedical applications, particularly in orthopedics and connective tissue pathophysiology.

Vengadesh LetchumananView profile

Lecturer

• Microbiology
• Antimicrobial Resistance
• Human Gut Microbiome
• +7 more

Dr. Vengadesh Letchumanan is a Lecturer at the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia. He leads the Pathogen Resistome Virulome and Diagnostic Research Group (PathRiD), focusing on microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and diagnostic innovation. He is actively involved in research, teaching, and student supervision, and is currently accepting PhD students. Education: PhD in Microbiology, Universiti Malaya (2019) MSc in Molecular Biology, Universiti Putra Malaysia (2013) Bachelor of Biomedicine (Hons), Management and Science University (2007) His research interests center on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) , pathogen characterization , microbial taxonomy , and the human gut microbiome . He investigates gut dysbiosis and the therapeutic potential of probiotics in conditions ranging from gastrointestinal disorders to systemic diseases. His work contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in health and well-being. The recent publications (2019–2024) reflect a strong focus on microbiome dynamics, probiotic applications, AMR in food and clinical settings, and molecular diagnostics. Key themes include the gut-skin and gut-bone axes, anti-Vibrio probiotics, and metagenomic analysis of microbial communities. Scientific Awards: World’s Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University (2023, 2024) FarmMate-S1 The Game Changer for Aquafarming (2022) Farm-Mate-S1 The Game Changer for the Shrimp Farming Industry (2023) Dr. Letchumanan has secured active research grants, including a project on Streptomyces as a probiotic in zebrafish aquafarming (2024–2026). He supervises students in microbiology, molecular biology, and microbiome research. He is a member of the Royal Society of Biology (UK) and the Malaysia Board of Technologists. He teaches foundational courses such as Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Microbiology, Student Project Cases (SPC), Scholarly Intensive Placement (SIP), and Fundamentals of Human Nutrition.

Surine GreenwayView profile

Associate Professor

• Food Safety
• Food Preservation
• Health and Nutrition
• +7 more

Surine Greenway is an Associate Professor and Extension Educator with the University of Idaho Extension, based in Owyhee County. She serves as a key educator in Family and Consumer Sciences, focusing on food safety, nutrition, financial literacy, and youth development across southern Idaho. M.S., Adult, Organizational Learning and Leadership, University of Idaho, 2013 B.S., Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Idaho, 2009 B.A., Spanish, University of Idaho, 2009 Her research and extension interests center on food safety and preservation , health and nutrition education , basic financial management , and 4-H youth development . She emphasizes culturally responsive programming, particularly for Latinx communities, and has developed innovative curricula in food preservation, entrepreneurship, and diversity education. Her work often integrates adult learning principles with community-based outreach. The 15 most recent articles highlight her focus on practical, community-impact research in food safety, hygiene education, youth entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. These publications reflect a strong trend in extension education , public health promotion , and inclusive program development , with a recurring emphasis on translating research into accessible tools for rural and underserved populations. Surine has received numerous scientific and extension awards recognizing excellence in diversity, teamwork, food safety, and multicultural outreach. Her accolades include multiple national and regional awards from the National Extension Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (NEAFCS), Epsilon Sigma Phi, and the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals. She has secured competitive grants such as the ECOP Western Region Grant ($5,000) and the Western Rural Development Center Grant ($2,500), and has been awarded travel and research funding from the University of Idaho Extension and Mildred Haberly Endowment. She actively advises and collaborates on youth and adult programs, particularly in the areas of entrepreneurship and racial understanding. She is affiliated with the Master Food Safety Advisor Program and has contributed to multi-state initiatives such as Walk-A-Weigh 30 for 30. Surine Greenway leads and contributes to several extension teams and programs, including the Idaho’s Coming Together for Racial Understanding initiative, the Master Food Safety Advisor Program, and the 4-H Food Smart Families program. She collaborates across state lines on health science days and social media education campaigns, demonstrating a strong commitment to team-based, scalable outreach in Family and Consumer Sciences.

Salvatore PiscuoglioView profile

Associate Professor

• Cancer Genomics
• Precision Medicine
• Multiomics
• +7 more

Salvatore Piscuoglio is an Associate Professor of Genetics at Humanitas University and Group Leader of the Precision Medicine Research Lab at Humanitas Research Hospital. He holds dual roles in research and academia, contributing to both translational oncology and graduate education. His educational background includes: Medical Biotechnology degree, University of Naples “Federico II”, 2008 PhD in Genetics, University of Basel, Switzerland, 2012 Postdoctoral training at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA, 2013–2016 Dr. Piscuoglio's research focuses on advancing precision medicine in cancer through the integration of multiomics technologies, ex vivo 3D tumor models, and artificial intelligence. His work aims to identify predictive biomarkers, uncover novel drug targets, and understand mechanisms of therapy resistance. By leveraging patient-derived organoids and assembloids, his lab develops physiologically relevant models to study tumor heterogeneity and drug response. The analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend in cancer genomics, functional screening, and translational models. His work spans prostate cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma, with a consistent emphasis on molecular characterization, synthetic lethality, and biomarker discovery using cutting-edge omics and organoid technologies. While no specific scientific awards are mentioned in the provided texts, his publication record in high-impact journals such as Nature Biomedical Engineering , Nature Communications , and Clinical Cancer Research reflects significant scientific contributions. Dr. Piscuoglio mentors several trainees, including PhD students and postdoctoral fellows. His lab has secured research funding enabling the development of a living tumor biobank and precision drug screening platforms, although specific grants are not listed. His collaborative work with surgery departments and pathology units supports a robust translational research pipeline. He leads the Precision Medicine Lab, which operates within the Humanitas Research Hospital ecosystem. The lab includes a multidisciplinary team of postdocs, PhD students, technicians, and research fellows focused on developing ex vivo models, conducting multi-omics profiling, and performing large-scale drug screening to accelerate personalized cancer therapy.

Ian SmallView profile

Associate Professor

• Plant Pathology
• Epidemiology
• Integrated Disease Management
• +4 more

Dr. Ian Small is an Associate Professor of Plant Pathology at the University of Florida's North Florida Research and Education Center. His research focuses on improving disease management strategies for field crops like peanut, cotton, and bioenergy feedstocks through integrated approaches combining genetics, cultural practices, biological controls, and precision technologies. Collaborations span agronomists, computer scientists, and engineers to develop decision support systems and phenotyping tools. Research interests include epidemiology, smart crop protection, and plant breeding for disease resistance. He leads projects on cotton leafroll dwarf virus surveillance, soilborne disease monitoring via metagenomics, and sustainable aviation fuel crop development through the SPARC initiative. Publications emphasize disease management innovations, crop rotation impacts, and precision agriculture applications. His work integrates field trials with predictive modeling to optimize fungicide use and nematicide efficacy in row crops. Dr. Small also contributes to extension programs addressing crop production challenges in Florida's agricultural ecosystems.

• Microbial diversity
• Environmental microbiology
• Bioinformatics
• +5 more

Dr. Richard Tennant is a researcher in the Department of Geography at the University of Exeter, specializing in microbial diversity across natural and industrial environments. His work integrates advanced techniques like Illumina and Oxford Nanopore sequencing to analyze microbial communities in contexts ranging from paleoenvironmental lake sediments to agricultural soils and anaerobic digestion systems. Dr. Tennant holds a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (2015) and M.Sc. in Biocatalysis (2008) from the University of Exeter, alongside a B.Sc. in Forensic Science from Nottingham Trent University (2007). He contributes to research networks including Microbes and Society @Exeter and Heritage @Exeter . His research interests span microbial interactions, environmental genomics, and the application of sequencing technologies to ecological and industrial challenges. Work focuses on topics like soil metagenomics, pollutant degradation, and the impact of urbanization on air quality using sediment archives. Notable projects include investigations into bacterial dormancy mechanisms, antibiotic-resistant persister cells, and palaeogenomic analysis of microalgae for biofuel potential. His work bridges environmental science, microbiology, and computational biology to address both fundamental and applied questions.

• Conservation Science
• Cultural Heritage Materials
• Analytical Chemistry
• +5 more

Signe Vahur is an Associate Professor of Analytical and Physical Chemistry at the University of Tartu's Institute of Chemistry, leading the Cultural Heritage Research Group under the Analytical Chemistry Department. She specializes in conservation science and analysis of cultural materials using advanced instrumentation such as ATR-FT-IR spectroscopy. Her roles include academic teaching, project management, and supervision of graduate students. Education: PhD in Analytical Chemistry (2010, University of Tartu), MSc and BSc in Chemical Physics (2005/2003). Her research focuses on material characterization of art and archaeological objects, with expertise in pigment analysis and conservation materials. She has conducted projects on Baltic cultural heritage artifacts, including the Rode Altarpiece and medieval church pieces. Research Interests: Her work integrates chemistry with art conservation, emphasizing non-destructive analytical techniques. Key areas include pigment identification, material degradation mechanisms, and the development of spectral databases for heritage science. She has pioneered the use of FT-IR spectroscopy in studying historical materials and co-led the MOOC 'Instrumental Analyses of Cultural Heritage Objects'. Awards: Recipient of the 2017 EU/Europa Nostra Prize for the Rode Altarpiece research, Estonian Museum Awards (2016/2017), and multiple recognitions for student supervision. Active in international conferences (ASMS, TECHNART) and contributes to conservation organizations like ICOM-CC. Grants & Projects: Led projects on Baltic cultural heritage preservation and participated in international collaborations. Organized workshops such as the 2017 Baltic Conservators' Workshop and 2014 Rode Altarpiece Investigation Program. Labs/Teams: Oversees the heritage science lab at Tartu University, maintaining an online spectral database (spectra.chem.ut.ee) for conservation materials. Collaborates with the Conservation and Digitization Centre Kanut on artifact conservation.