Microgravity Synthesis Professors and Supervisors | ApplySharif

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Patrick MassonView profile

Professor

University of Wisconsin-MadisonUnited States

Patrick Masson is a Professor in the Genetics Department at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he leads an active research laboratory focused on plant root growth behaviors and molecular mechanisms of gravitropism. His work primarily utilizes Arabidopsis thaliana and Brachypodium distachyon as model systems to investigate how roots respond to environmental stimuli. Position: Professor Department: Genetics University: University of Wisconsin–Madison Lab Website: http://masson.genetics.wisc.edu/ Dr. Masson received his Ph.D. from Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques de l'état, Gembloux, Belgium (1986), followed by postdoctoral research at the Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution of Washington, Baltimore (1986-1991). His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that allow roots to adopt specific growth behaviors in response to environmental parameters including gravity, light, touch, and chemical gradients. A significant portion of his work investigates the role of polyamines, particularly cadaverine, in regulating root growth behavior and root system architecture development in response to biotic and abiotic stressors. His laboratory employs molecular genetic strategies to study gravity-induced cytoplasmic alkalinization, lateral auxin transport, and other complex root growth phenomena. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on root gravitropism, with increasing attention to space biology applications as evidenced by studies conducted on the International Space Station. His work spans from fundamental molecular mechanisms to applied research using advanced techniques like clinorotation to simulate microgravity conditions. The research consistently bridges plant physiology, molecular genetics, and biochemical approaches to understand root behavior. Dr. Masson currently mentors several graduate students and researchers, including Marie Keith, Dorian Alexander Buening, and Shih-Heng Su, who contribute to ongoing projects investigating root tip circumnutation in Brachypodium distachyon and the molecular basis of the Cadaverine Effect. His laboratory utilizes a range of tools including genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, microscopy, and time-lapse photography to advance understanding of plant root growth behaviors.

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Alexandra NavrotskyView profile

Professor

Arizona State UniversityUnited States

Dr. Alexandra Navrotsky is a Regents Professor at Arizona State University (ASU), holding appointments in the School of Molecular Sciences and the School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy. She also serves as an affiliated faculty member in the School of Earth and Space Exploration and is the Director of the Navrotsky Eyring Center for Materials of the Universe (MotU). Her research focuses on the thermodynamics of materials, with applications in geochemistry, planetary science, and energy technologies. Education: B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the University of Chicago (1965–1970). Postdoctoral work at Penn State University and Germany before joining ASU in 1985, later serving as a professor at the University of California, Davis, until returning to ASU. Research Interests: Thermodynamics of minerals and ceramics, energy materials, nuclear materials stability, planetary material formation, high-pressure research, and materials for aerospace applications. She leads the MotU Center and the FORCE facility for high-pressure studies, a national infrastructure for extreme condition research. Awards and Honors: Roebling Medal (2009), Hess Medal (2006), Benjamin Franklin Medal in Earth Science (2002), and fellowships in multiple scientific societies, including the National Academy of Sciences (1993) and the American Geophysical Union (1988). Advising and Grants: Mentors over 20 graduate students and postdocs, leading grants focused on thermodynamic properties of critical materials, nuclear reactor materials, and planetary materials. Collaborates with national laboratories (e.g., Idaho National Lab, Los Alamos) and international researchers. Labs and Facilities: Director of the MotU Center, Thermochemistry Laboratory, and the FORCE facility. The MotU Center integrates cosmology, planetary science, and materials science to address planetary evolution and material synthesis under extreme conditions.

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Christopher DreyerView profile

Professor

Colorado School of MinesUnited States

Dr. Christopher Dreyer is a Professor of Practice in Mechanical Engineering and Director of Engineering at the Center for Space Resources at Colorado School of Mines. He holds a BS from Drexel University and MS/PhD from the University of Colorado Boulder. His work focuses on space resource technology development, including lunar/asteroid/Mars resource utilization, in situ resource utilization (ISRU), and instrumentation for extraterrestrial exploration. He co-founded Mines’ groundbreaking Space Resources Graduate Program, the first of its kind globally. Research interests include regolith mechanics, resource extraction, and space manufacturing. He leads experimental facilities for prospecting instruments and resource processing, contributing to NASA missions and commercial lunar propellant architectures. His engineering expertise bridges academic research and practical applications for advancing space exploration infrastructure. Dr. Dreyer’s publications emphasize lunar regolith characterization, optical mining techniques, and solid oxide electrolysis systems for propellant production. His work frequently explores cryogenic environments and subsurface ice extraction methods in permanently shadowed regions. Collaborations include NIAC-funded projects and international asteroid science initiatives.

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Jan van StamView profile

Professor

Karlstad UniversitySweden

Jan van Stam is a Professor of Physical Chemistry at Karlstad University . His research focuses on fundamental and applied aspects of complex systems, including polymer-polymer interactions, colloid behavior, and material formation under microgravity. He collaborates with institutions such as Lund University, Linköping University, and Université Libre de Bruxelles, and his work is funded by the Swedish National Space Board. Research interests include phase separation in photovoltaic materials, morphology formation in ternary mixtures, and solvent strategies for eco-friendly materials. Key techniques used include AFM-IR spectromicroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and sounding rocket experiments for microgravity studies. Over 150 publications span topics from polymer blends to space-based material processing. Notable projects include LiFiCo (liquid film coating under microgravity) and studies on donor-acceptor polymer complexes for solar cells. His work bridges fundamental science with practical applications in renewable energy and sustainable materials.

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Carol MARTINEZ LUNAView profile

Researcher

University of LuxembourgLuxembourg

Dr. Carol Martinez Luna is a Research Scientist and Deputy Head of the Space Robotics group (SpaceR) at the SnT Interdisciplinary Centre, University of Luxembourg. She holds a PhD in Robotics and Automation from Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (2013) and previously served as an Assistant Professor at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia. Her research spans Space Robotics , Computer Vision , and Machine Learning , with current focus areas including: Multi-purpose manipulation for planetary/orbital robots Perception systems for autonomous space operations Domain adaptation to bridge simulation-to-reality gaps On-ground testing of orbital technologies Recent publications (2022-2025) predominantly address space debris removal , autonomous grasping , and robotic perception , with heavy emphasis on machine learning techniques and high-fidelity simulation validation. Notable trends include generative models for manipulation and adaptive control under uncertainty. She actively advises 7 PhD students and 9 Master's candidates on topics ranging from space manipulation to vision-based safety systems. Her lab develops experimental platforms for orbital scenario emulation and collaborates on ESA-funded debris removal initiatives.

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Rob MorrisView profile

Professor

Nottingham Trent UniversityUnited Kingdom

Professor Rob Morris is a distinguished academic at Nottingham Trent University's School of Science & Technology within the Physics and Mathematics department. He serves as Professor of Physics and Departmental Research Coordinator for the physics team. His research spans diverse applications of magnetic resonance technology, with core interests in: Medical imaging hardware development (especially MRI and ultrasound) Food process control and product stability monitoring Wastewater treatment and sustainability applications Natural fiber composites for medical devices Acoustic levitation and benchtop nuclear fusion Professor Morris pioneered the use of MRI for food product analysis and developed embeddable NMR probes for environmental monitoring. His recent publications reveal strong trends in biomedical applications of magnetic resonance, with significant focus on: Glioblastoma treatment through magnetic nanoparticle drug delivery Musculoskeletal tissue engineering Sustainable composite materials for radiotherapy Advanced food quality monitoring systems As an active collaborator, he leads multinational projects including the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action SuChAQuality and ERA Talents APRISE initiative. His external engagements include chairing Foresight Innovations' scientific advisory board and guest editing special issues for Applied Sciences and Sensors journals. Professor Morris maintains strong industry partnerships with organizations across Turkey, Germany, Serbia, and the UK, while supervising numerous PhD and postgraduate projects with practical hardware development focus.

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Noel ClarkView profile

Professor

University of ColoradoUnited States

Noel Clark is a Professor of Distinction in the Department of Physics at the University of Colorado. His research focuses on condensed matter physics, particularly liquid crystals and colloids, exploring phase transitions, electro-optic applications, and nanoscale fabrication. Clark received his PhD in Physics from MIT (1970) and held roles at Harvard before joining CU in 1977. His group pioneered ferroelectric liquid crystal light valves, now central to the Center for Optoelectronic Computing Systems. Recent work includes nanometer-scale structures using protein crystals and studies of helical nanofilaments. His research spans fundamental physics and applied technologies, with over 50 publications in top journals. Education: PhD in Physics, MIT, 1970 Research Highlights: Discovery of the melting transition as bond condensation Development of ferroelectric liquid crystal technologies Nanotechnology projects using biomembrane liquid crystals Key Themes in Articles (2020–2025): Phase behavior of ferroelectric nematics and smectics Microgravity studies of liquid crystal films Applications in optoelectronics and biological systems Self-assembly of DNA-based nanostructures Labs/Teams: Involved with the Center for Optoelectronic Computing Systems at CU, focusing on optical computing and liquid crystal device development.

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Monica DeianaView profile

Researcher

University of CagliariItaly

Monica Deiana is a Researcher in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Cagliari. Her work focuses on oxidative stress, antioxidant mechanisms, and the biological effects of dietary compounds, particularly phenolic antioxidants from olive oil and other Mediterranean foods. She leads a research group investigating how these compounds modulate cellular redox status and counteract inflammatory processes in diseases like inflammatory bowel disorders and atherosclerosis. Her research integrates in vitro, cell culture, and in vivo models, emphasizing the role of oxysterols and lipid oxidation products in disease pathogenesis. Key areas include the protective effects of polyphenols on intestinal epithelial integrity and the modulation of signaling pathways involved in oxidative injury. Her research spans topics such as the anti-inflammatory activity of extra virgin olive oil phenolics, the impact of microgravity on cellular metabolism, and the role of probiotics in gut health. Notable contributions include studies on the metabolites of hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol, their effects on endothelial function, and the neuroprotective potential of dietary antioxidants. She has also explored public health initiatives, such as raising awareness of alcohol as a breast cancer risk factor. Publications highlight her work on lipidomics under space-like conditions, the antioxidant properties of Mediterranean plants like Physalis alkekengi, and the synthesis of antiproliferative coumarin derivatives. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges nutrition, pharmacology, and cell biology, with implications for both clinical and dietary interventions.

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Jarrod SchiffbauerView profile

Visiting Assistant Professor

Colorado Mesa UniversityUnited States

Jarrod Schiffbauer is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Physics at Colorado Mesa University. He holds a PhD in Theoretical/Applied Physics from West Virginia University, an MS in Theoretical Physics from Ohio University, and a BS in Physics from Ohio University. His research focuses on non-linear, non-equilibrium physics in micro-nano fluidic systems, with applications in solar-thermal energy, desalination, and biomedicine. He emphasizes collaborative research involving students in active projects, such as theoretical simulations of molecule transport in DNA and nanoscale heat transfer modeling for solar desalination systems. His educational background includes teaching at Ohio University and postdoctoral research at the University of Notre Dame and Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. His work bridges theory and experimental characterization of functionalized surfaces to control nanoscale transport phenomena. Recent projects include studying plasmonic bubble dynamics and photothermal energy conversion. Key research areas include micro-nano fluidics, electrokinetic instability, and functionalized nanomaterials. He has published extensively on topics like overlimiting currents in ion-selective membranes and nanoscale heat transfer mechanisms. Schiffbauer’s philosophy integrates research into classroom teaching to foster student engagement in scientific inquiry.

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Mohan AggarwalView profile

Researcher

Alabama A&M UniversityUnited States

Mohan Aggarwal is a faculty member at Alabama A&M University within the College of Engineering, Technology and Physical Sciences , specifically in the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics . His research focuses on advanced materials for dielectric, ferroelectric, and pyroelectric applications, with a strong emphasis on nanocomposites and energy harvesting systems. Research Interests Dr. Aggarwal’s work spans disciplines such as dielectric material characterization , ferroelectric phase analysis , and energy harvesting device design . He has contributed to innovations in thin film technology , triboluminescent smart sensors , and crystal growth optimization , particularly for materials like PMN-PT and PVDF-based nanocomposites. Publications and Trends His scholarly output highlights trends in polymer-ceramic composites , optical and electronic property measurement , and low-cost renewable energy solutions . Notable areas include triboluminescence , pyroelectric infrared detection , and hybrid solar/wind systems .

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Premkumar SagantiView profile

Professor

Prairie View A&M UniversityUnited States

Dr. Premkumar Saganti is a Regent’s Professor of Physics and Director of multiple research initiatives at Prairie View A&M University. He holds academic leadership roles including Director of the CRI-RaISE (Chancellor’s Research Initiative-Radiation Institute for Science and Engineering) and Director of the Prairie View Solar Observatory. His research focuses on space radiation modeling, particularly for NASA missions, and he serves as Principal Investigator (PI) on several NASA-funded projects including the MARIE Project and the Radiation Quantum Multiple Scattering Fragmentation (QMSFRG) Project. Education: B.Sc. (Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry) from Andhra Christian College (1982), M.Sc. (Nuclear Physics) from Andhra University (1986), M.S. (Electro Optics) from University of Houston-Clear Lake (1991), and Ph.D. (Nuclear Structure Theory) from Andhra University (1994). Research interests include radiation shielding for astronauts, radiation effects on biological systems, and advanced detector technology for space missions. He has contributed to projects like the Columbia Accident Investigation and Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Missions. His work spans collaborations with NASA Johnson Space Center, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and international partners. Awards include the NASA Space Flight Special Team Award (2003), Top Flight Award from Lockheed Martin (2003), and the Outstanding Teacher Award (2007). His research has led to over 50 peer-reviewed articles and technical reports, including studies on lunar radiation environments and radiation risk assessments for deep-space missions. Current roles include chairing the Research Advisory Committee in the Department of Physics and teaching courses in nuclear physics and physical sciences. He actively mentors students through the NASA-CARR program and leads initiatives like NuSTEAM to advance STEM education for underrepresented minorities.

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Tatiana Gambaryan-RoismanView profile

Adjunct Professor

Technical University of DarmstadtGermany

Dr. Tatiana Gambaryan-Roisman is an Adjunct Professor (Apl. Prof.) at Technische Universität Darmstadt, where she leads the research group Interfacial Transport and Complex Wetting . She holds a D.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from Technion and completed her habilitation in Heat Transfer at TU Darmstadt. Her research explores interfacial phenomena, including droplet dynamics, evaporation/condensation, and heat transfer enhancement using nanostructured surfaces. Her work integrates experimental and computational methods to study: Drop impact on heated/deformable substrates Marangoni convection in thin films Wetting of porous and textured materials Nanoparticle assembly and battery interface engineering Recent publications focus on droplet coalescence, evaporation kinetics, and lithium-ion battery interfaces, demonstrating consistent innovation in thermal-fluid sciences. She coordinates EU projects like nanoPaInt and has led the Emmy Noether Research Group. Awards include: Ralf-Dahrendorf Prize for European Research (2019) Emmy Noether Grant (2002–2009) Minerva Fellowship (1998–2000) She serves on editorial boards for Experimental Thermal and Fluid Science and Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science , and organizes international conferences like Droplets 2021.

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Evgeny RebrovView profile

Professor

University of WarwickUnited Kingdom

Evgeny Rebrov is a Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Warwick, School of Engineering. He holds additional roles including Editor of the Chemical Engineering Journal (since 2024) and Honorary Visiting Research Professor at the University of Adelaide (since 2019). His research focuses on energy-intensive reactor engineering, particularly utilizing nonconventional energy sources like microwaves, RF fields, and UV light to enhance catalytic processes. Key affiliations include the Energy Intensified Reactor Engineering Lab and leadership in courses like ES4D9 and CDT Net2Zero. Education highlights include a DSc in Chemical Engineering (2012) and PhD in Physical Chemistry from the Boreskov Institute of Catalysis (1999). Notable awards include the Catalysts 2023 Best Paper Award for his work on molecular catalysts in Zn-air batteries. He has contributed to spin-out company Stoli Chem, pioneering catalyst coating technology for energy-efficient production. His research spans multiphase reactors, catalytic pyrolysis, and plasma-assisted synthesis. Recent articles emphasize CO2 capture, ammonia production, and plasma-catalyzed processes. Grants include a Research Empowerment grant for LIB recycling. Advising roles include Commonwealth Scholarship contributions and leadership in doctoral training programs like Net2Zero.

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James FerriView profile

Professor

Virginia Commonwealth UniversityUnited States

James Ferri, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Chemical & Life Science Engineering at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). He specializes in chemical engineering with a focus on continuous manufacturing, pharmaceutical synthesis, and interfacial phenomena. His research explores advanced processes such as flow chemistry, 3D-printed unit operations, and microgravity experiments for emulsion stability analysis. Ferri also contributes to STEM education through interdisciplinary curricula integrating science and history. Key Research Areas: Emulsion science, nanoparticle technology, process intensification, and machine learning in chemical engineering Notable Projects: Development of modular albuterol manufacturing systems and microgravity-based emulsion studies on the ISS Technical Expertise: Diffusing wave spectroscopy, 3D printing applications, and material characterization His work bridges fundamental research and industrial applications, advancing pharmaceutical production efficiency and sustainability. Ferri's contributions to educational innovation include Culturally Relevant STEM (CReST), an integrated high school curriculum combining chemistry and world history.

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Aleksandar G. OstrogorskyView profile

Professor

Illinois Institute of TechnologyUnited States

Dr. Aleksandar G. Ostrogorsky is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering at Armour College of Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology. He directs the CRC Crystal Research Corporation and serves as Associate Editor for the Journal of Crystal Growth. Education: Sc.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1986) M.S. in Nuclear Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (1981) Dipl.Ing. in Mechanical Engineering from University of Belgrade (1977) His research focuses on heat and mass transfer phenomena in materials processing, specializing in directional solidification and single crystal growth of semiconductor alloys for gamma ray detectors, photovoltaic applications, and piezoelectric materials. Current NASA-funded projects explore microgravity crystal growth in the SUBSA furnace aboard the International Space Station. Recent publications demonstrate strong focus on thermophysical property measurements, vapor growth techniques, and interface control mechanisms using advanced baffle designs. His work consistently bridges fundamental heat transfer theory with practical crystal growth optimization. Scientific Awards: NASA Group Achievement Awards (2004, 2001) Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship (1991) Fulbright Visiting Fellowship (1980) Multiple innovation awards for semiconductor processing techniques He leads microgravity experiments through NASA collaborations and mentors researchers in crystal growth methodologies. His laboratory develops specialized furnaces for space-based materials research.

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