Find Academic Supervisors

• Nanotechnology
• Nanomedicine
• Environmental Science
• +3 more

Patricia Taladriz Blanco serves as a Research Fellow at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), actively contributing to the Espiña Research Group. Her work specializes in cutting-edge nanotechnology applications for environmental monitoring and biomedical research, with emphasis on detection methodologies for plastic particles and nanoparticle-cell interactions. Her core research spans Nanotechnology , Environmental Science , and Nanomedicine , featuring expertise in particle characterization, spectroscopic analysis (particularly SERS), and physiological behavior of nanomaterials. She investigates critical challenges like microplastic pollution and nanoparticle targeting mechanisms for drug delivery systems. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on advancing detection techniques for micro/nanoplastics and understanding nanoparticle dissolution/endocytosis in biological contexts. This work bridges environmental health concerns with therapeutic applications, demonstrating consistent contributions to nanosafety and nanomedicine targeting strategies. As a key member of INL's Espiña Research Group, she engages in collaborative projects centered on nanomaterial characterization and environmental nanotechnology, utilizing advanced instrumentation for particle analysis in complex matrices.

• Experimental Physics
• Materials Science
• Data Analysis
• +4 more

Sebastiano Vasi is a Researcher with fixed-term contract in the Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Earth Sciences at the University of Messina. His work focuses on experimental physics of matter and applications, with particular emphasis on materials science, data analysis, and physics education. His educational background includes national scientific qualifications for associate professor in two sectors: Experimental Physics of Matter (02/B1) valid from December 6, 2023 to December 6, 2034, and Applied Physics, Teaching and History of Physics (02/D1) valid from September 29, 2023 to September 29, 2034. Dr. Vasi's research interests span experimental physics, materials science, data analysis, and physics education. His work includes studies on 2D materials, ion beam physics, metabolomics, and innovative educational approaches using digital tools like Minecraft for physics education. He has made significant contributions to understanding surface modifications, nanomaterials synthesis, and environmental monitoring techniques. His research demonstrates a strong interdisciplinary approach connecting physics with practical applications in environmental science, education, and materials engineering. Start Cup Unime 2023 Finanziamento Attività di Base della Ricerca di Ateneo (FFABR Unime) 2022 Premio SIF - Società Italiana di Fisica 2020 Migliore Comunicazione Congresso Nazionale della Società Italiana di Fisica 2017 Dr. Vasi teaches multiple courses including Data Analysis, Physics, and Experimental Physics across various degree programs at the University of Messina. He is actively involved in public engagement activities, particularly in school outreach and science communication initiatives, organizing events such as MEDNIGHT (Mediterranean Night of Researchers) and Pint of Science to promote physics education to broader audiences.

Christopher FreemanView profile

Visiting Assistant Professor

• Coral reef ecology
• Symbiosis
• Sponge ecology
• +4 more

Christopher Freeman is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Biology Department at the College of Charleston and a research scientist at Hollings Marine Laboratory. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, an M.S. from Georgia Southern University, and a B.A. from Connecticut College. His academic appointments include being a Research Adjunct Faculty in the Graduate Program in Marine Biology at the College of Charleston and a Research Associate at the Smithsonian Institution. Dr. Freeman's research focuses on marine invertebrate ecology with particular emphasis on: Coral reef ecology and biodiversity Symbiotic relationships between marine organisms and their microbial communities Sponge ecology and the role of sponges in coral reef ecosystems Community ecology of marine environments Estuarine suspension feeders and their role in nutrient cycling His laboratory work employs experimental, chemical, isotopic, and molecular methods to investigate how microbial symbionts influence host organisms' ecological roles and resource utilization. A significant portion of his research examines how associations with specific microbial symbionts allow coexisting organisms to access unique resources on reefs, potentially reducing competition and supporting biodiversity. Dr. Freeman has made notable contributions to understanding filter feeder communities in nutrient and organic matter cycling in estuaries, particularly regarding harmful algal blooms within the Indian River Lagoon of central Florida. His work demonstrates the role of bivalves, barnacles, and other filter feeders in top-down control of algal blooms. His scientific awards include recognition as an Honors Faculty Fellow at the College of Charleston. Dr. Freeman teaches several biology courses including Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology (BIOL 111), Biodiversity, Ecology, and Conservation Biology (BIOL 211), Marine Biodiversity, Ecology, and Conservation Biology (BIOL 213), General Ecology (BIOL 341), and Conservation Biology (BIOL 406). He maintains an active research laboratory focusing on marine invertebrate ecology, with field sites including coral reefs in the Caribbean, the Miskito Cays of Honduras, Myanmar, French Polynesia, Panama, and Hong Kong. His lab, sometimes referred to as the SWIMS lab, conducts research on sponge ecology, coral reef community dynamics, and the impacts of environmental stressors on marine ecosystems.

Gorka SanchoView profile

Professor

• Behavior and ecology of fishes
• fisheries conservation
• Marine Protected Areas

Gorka Sancho serves as a Professor at the College of Charleston, based at the Grice Marine Laboratory in James Island, South Carolina. He teaches undergraduate courses including Biology of Fishes (BIOL 335), Oceanography (BIOL 342), Oceanographic Research (BIOL 357), Marine Resources and Conservation (BIOL 454), Natural History of Spain (BIOL 432), and Conservation Biology (BIOL 406). His academic credentials include a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a B.S. (Licenciatura) from the Autonoma University of Madrid, Spain. These qualifications underpin his expertise in marine ecosystem dynamics and conservation biology. Sancho's research centers on fish behavior and ecology , fisheries conservation , and Marine Protected Areas . His work examines critical issues like microplastic ingestion in estuarine fish, thermal impacts on temperature-dependent sex determination in Atlantic silverside, shark stress physiology, and invasive lionfish ecology. He employs field studies, stable isotope analysis, and autonomous monitoring systems to investigate anthropogenic impacts on marine species across the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coast. Analysis of his 2016-2024 publications reveals three dominant research thrusts: pollution effects (microplastics, tire particles), elasmobranch conservation (shark stress responses, diet analysis), and marine protected area efficacy . His methodology increasingly integrates technological innovations like satellite-linked acoustic receivers with traditional ecological approaches, demonstrating adaptation to emerging conservation challenges in changing marine environments. No scientific awards were documented in the source materials. While specific grant details and student names are unreported, Sancho's extensive publication record and advanced course instruction indicate active research mentorship. His work through the Grice Marine Laboratory facilitates collaborations with regional fisheries stakeholders and supports field-based education in Charleston Harbor and coastal ecosystems.

Johannes SteinhausView profile

Professor

• Polymer Science
• Polymer Recycling
• Polymer Aging
• +6 more

Professor Johannes Steinhaus serves as both Vice-President for Research and Transfer (VP2) and Professor of Materials Science at Bonn-Rhine-Sieg University of Applied Sciences, specializing in hybrid material systems and failure analysis. He is affiliated with the Department of Natural Sciences and maintains offices in both Sankt Augustin and Rheinbach campuses. His research focuses on Microplastic analysis , Failure analysis , Simulation and durability analysis of rubber components , Real-time analysis of the curing behaviour of thermoset systems , Microscopy in the characterisation of plastics , and Thermal analysis methods (DSC, DMA, TGA, TMA and DEA) in polymer development. He is a member of the German Association of Materials Science (DGM). Prof. Steinhaus teaches courses including Additive Manufacturing , Biomedical Materials , Conventional Processing Techniques , Forensic Material Trace and Damage Analysis , Polymer Analytics , Recycling of Plastics and Maritime Waste Problems , and Thermal Analysis of Plastics . His publication record spans from 2005 to 2024, with recent work focusing on microplastic pollution quantification, thermal analysis of polymers, and dental composite curing behavior. His research projects include PAExSiDur (Polymer Ageing in Experiment and Simulation), NaWETec (Sustainability in Materials and Energy Technology), and Denthart. PAExSiDur - Polymer ageing in experiment and simulation for targeted service life extension MOTTSAL - Modeling and Optimization of Transdermal Therapeutic Systems NaWETec - Sustainability in Materials and Energy Technology Denthart - Investigation of curing processes of light-curing dental filling composites Prof. Steinhaus has supervised numerous Bachelor's and Master's theses, both internally and in collaboration with industry partners. His students have worked on topics ranging from microplastic analysis to polymer recycling and dental material characterization. He also organizes professional seminars, including a biennial seminar on damage analysis and component testing of plastics in collaboration with the German Society for Materials Science.

Wolfgang ImhofView profile

Professor

• Organic Chemistry
• Organometallic Chemistry
• Catalysis
• +6 more

Wolfgang Imhof is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Koblenz and Landau, Germany, where he holds the Chair of Chemistry with a focus on organic chemistry. Previously, he was affiliated with Friedrich Schiller University Jena's Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry from 1992 to 2011, and completed his PhD at Heidelberg University's Institute of Inorganic Chemistry from 1989 to 1992. With over 260 publications and 2,500+ citations, Professor Imhof is a distinguished researcher in organic and organometallic chemistry. Professor Imhof's research spans multiple areas of chemistry, with primary expertise in organic chemistry, organometallic chemistry, and catalysis. His work particularly focuses on applied X-ray crystallography, hydrogen bonding, and crystal structure analysis. More recently, his research has expanded into environmental chemistry, specifically microplastic analysis using advanced NMR techniques. His interdisciplinary approach bridges traditional organic synthesis with modern analytical methods to address contemporary environmental challenges. Professor Imhof's recent publications demonstrate a clear shift toward environmental applications of analytical chemistry, particularly in microplastic quantification using NMR spectroscopy. His work on tire wear particles, selective extraction methods, and non-deuterated NMR techniques represents cutting-edge approaches to environmental monitoring. While maintaining his foundational work in organic synthesis and crystallography, his research increasingly addresses urgent ecological concerns through innovative analytical methodologies. No specific awards listed in the provided information Professor Imhof has likely supervised numerous students throughout his career, though specific names aren't provided in the text. His extensive publication record (261 publications) suggests active research leadership. His work appears to be supported by grants focused on environmental analysis, organic synthesis, and advanced spectroscopic techniques, though specific grant details aren't mentioned in the provided text. Professor Imhof leads "Wolfgang Imhof's Lab" at the University of Koblenz and Landau, focusing on organic chemistry research. His collaborative network includes researchers from multiple institutions, as evidenced by his co-authorship with scientists from various universities and research centers. His team appears to specialize in both traditional organic synthesis and cutting-edge environmental analysis techniques.

• Materials Science
• Micro and Nanotechnology
• Laser Material Processing
• +4 more

Prof. Dr. Janko Auerswald serves as a Lecturer in Materials Science and Head of the Materials Laboratory at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) within the Engineering & Architecture school and Institute of Mechanical and Energy Engineering (IME). His academic foundation includes a doctorate from the University of Ulm under Leibniz Prize winner Prof. Dr. H.-J. Fecht, with prior studies at the Technical University of Berlin and Bowling Green State University (USA) through a scholarship. His research spans materials science , micro/nanotechnology , and laser processing , with significant contributions to high-temperature superalloys, epitaxial semiconductor structures, and sustainable household appliance development. His recent work focuses on microfabrication effects on material properties, microplastic pollution from textiles, and ultra-short pulse laser applications. He has authored two Wiley-published university textbooks and over 40 peer-reviewed scientific publications. Award highlights include the Best Poster Award at Eurosensors XXII (2008), a Senator Fulbright Scholarship , and membership in the Swiss Association for Materials Science and Technology (SVMT) . He actively contributes as a session chair for international conferences (including MNE 2024) and peer reviewer for scientific journals. His industry collaborations with TRUMPF Switzerland and V-ZUG AG have yielded 9 patent families covering dishwasher cleaning systems, thermal crosslinking of appliances, and microfluidic sensors. Current Affiliation: Lecturer, Institute of Mechanical and Energy Engineering (IME), HSLU Engineering & Architecture Research Leadership: Head of Materials Laboratory at HSLU Industry Impact: 9 patent families with applications in laser processing, sustainable appliances, and microfluidics Professional Service: Session Chair for Micro & Nano Fabrication at MNE 2024; SVMT member since 2021 His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward sustainable materials engineering (microplastics research, circular economy concepts) and advanced microfabrication (ultra-short pulse laser precision, micro-tensile testing of miniature components). The interdisciplinary nature of his work bridges academic research with industrial applications in medical devices, food safety, and precision manufacturing.

• Physical Chemistry
• Applied Chemistry
• Biomineralization
• +4 more

Damir Kralj is a Research Professor and Head of the Laboratory for Precipitation Processes at the Ruđer Bošković Institute (Department of Materials Chemistry), affiliated with the University of Zagreb. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and has extensive academic experience including doctoral course instruction at the University of Zagreb's Faculty of Science and Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology. Education: Ph.D. in Chemistry (1990) from Ruđer Bošković Institute and University of Zagreb M.Sc. in Physical and Analytical Chemistry (1986) from University of Zagreb B.Sc. in Chemical Technology (1983) from University of Zagreb Research Focus: His work spans physical chemistry, applied chemistry, and materials science with emphasis on biomineralization mechanisms, precipitation kinetics of calcium compounds (carbonates, phosphates, oxalates), and environmental applications. Key areas include crystal growth modulation using organic/inorganic additives, microplastic encapsulation, and functional nanomaterials development for catalysis and corrosion protection. Publication Trends: Recent articles (2021-2024) demonstrate strong focus on environmentally relevant crystallization processes, including microplastic encapsulation in minerals, pollutant interactions, biomimetic material synthesis, and advanced characterization of crystal growth kinetics. Studies frequently employ multidisciplinary approaches combining chemistry, materials science, and environmental engineering. Awards & Honors: Award of the Croatian Chemical Society (1994) Golden ARCA and GENIUS CUP awards for VIKER reactor innovation (2005) Silver ARCA for calcium carbonate production process (2009) Academic Leadership: Supervised 5 completed PhD students and 2 diploma students, currently advising 1 PhD candidate. Secured multiple competitive grants including Croatian Science Foundation support for bioinspired materials research (2014-2018) and Ministry of Science projects on precipitation mechanisms. Laboratory: Leads the Laboratory for Precipitation Processes focusing on fundamental and applied research in crystallization kinetics, biomaterial development, and environmental remediation technologies.

Christoph KrafftView profile

Researcher

• Raman Spectroscopy
• Infrared Spectroscopy
• Biomedical Imaging
• +5 more

Christoph Krafft serves as Group Leader ( Arbeitsgruppenleiter ) at the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (Leibniz-IPHT) in Jena, Germany, where he leads the Raman and IR Spectroscopic Analytics research group within the Spectroscopy/Imaging Research Department. His research program bridges physics, chemistry, and biomedical applications through advanced optical technologies. Dr. Krafft's expertise centers on vibrational spectroscopy techniques, particularly Raman and infrared methods. His research spans biomedical diagnostics (cancer detection, cellular analysis, infection mechanisms) and environmental applications (microplastic detection). He has developed innovative instrumentation including specialized Raman imaging systems, 1064 nm fiber probe spectrometers, and high-throughput screening platforms that address fluorescence interference challenges in biological samples. Analysis of his publication record reveals a strategic focus on clinical translation of spectroscopic technologies. His recent work demonstrates progression from fundamental methodology development toward practical diagnostic applications, particularly in intraoperative settings. The consistent collaboration with Jürgen Popp and international research teams across multiple disciplines highlights his position within a robust scientific network focused on advancing optical technologies for real-world challenges. Dr. Krafft actively participates in large-scale collaborative efforts, including international interlaboratory comparisons for microplastic detection standardization. His laboratory at Leibniz-IPHT maintains a dual focus on pushing technical boundaries in spectroscopic instrumentation while ensuring practical applicability in medical and environmental contexts.

Nicole Rita Elisabeth PosthView profile

Associate Professor

• Microbial Element Cycling
• Biomineralization
• Microplastics Fate
• +3 more

Nicole Rita Elisabeth Posth is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in Geology. She leads the Geomicrobiology Lab, focusing on the intersection of biological processes and geological systems. Dr. Posth received her educational qualifications from prestigious institutions: Dr. rer. nat. in Geomicrobiology from the University of Tübingen (2005-2009) M.Sc. in Applied Geosciences from the University of Tübingen (2002-2004) B.S. from Tufts Medical Center (1995-2000) Dr. Posth's research program centers on the complex interactions between microorganisms and their geological environment. Her work explores how microscopic life influences and is influenced by Earth's physical and chemical processes across various spatial and temporal scales. She investigates the mechanisms of microbial element cycling and transport, examining how microorganisms facilitate the movement and transformation of elements through different environmental matrices. Her research on biomineralization reveals how biological processes drive mineral formation and transformation, with implications for understanding both modern environmental systems and ancient geological records. A significant portion of Dr. Posth's recent work addresses the pressing environmental challenge of plastic pollution. She studies the environmental fate of microplastics in aquatic systems, examining how these particles interact with natural surfaces and organisms. Her research on microbe-surface interactions in marine and freshwater environments provides critical insights into the behavior of contaminants and the potential for bioremediation strategies. Through her work, she connects fundamental microbiological processes with large-scale environmental phenomena, demonstrating how the smallest life forms can have profound impacts across vast geographical areas. Analysis of Dr. Posth's recent publications reveals a strong focus on environmental microplastics research, with particular attention to nanoplastics and their interactions with natural minerals and potential remediation strategies. Her work spans multiple disciplines including geomicrobiology, environmental chemistry, and marine pollution studies. The research shows increasing sophistication in analytical approaches to plastic identification and quantification in environmental samples, with applications ranging from Arctic sediments to tropical beaches in Southeast Asia. Her collaborative work extends across international boundaries, as evidenced by the multi-national authorship on recent publications. Dr. Posth leads the Posth Lab at the University of Copenhagen, which studies "the interaction between life and the physical world, the abiotic vs. biotic, and the impact of the smallest lifeforms across vast geographical areas." Her team's projects cover biogeochemical cycling in marine and freshwater environments, with particular emphasis on microbial element cycling, biomineralization, and microbe-surface interactions. The lab maintains active collaborations with researchers across multiple countries and disciplines, addressing global environmental challenges through interdisciplinary approaches.

Juris AigarsView profile

Assistant Professor

• Marine Ecology
• Biogeochemistry
• Environmental Pollution
• +4 more

Juris Aigars serves as Director of an institute and holds the position of Assistant Professor at the University of Latvia. His primary research focus centers on biogeochemical cycles within the Baltic Sea ecosystem, specifically examining the circulation of biogenic elements, pollutants, and microplastics under changing climatic and anthropogenic pressures. His work critically assesses the Baltic Sea's capacity to deliver ecosystem services amidst these environmental stressors. Research interests span marine ecology, biogeochemistry, and environmental pollution with emphasis on Microplastic distribution and chemical composition in Baltic surface waters Trophic transfer of contaminants like mercury in fish populations Seasonal dynamics of nutrient cycles and phytoplankton assemblages Climate change impacts on marine ecosystem services Methodological development for pollution monitoring His publication record demonstrates consistent focus on Baltic Sea processes, particularly in the Gulf of Riga, with recent work expanding into microplastic pollution and cumulative impact assessment for maritime spatial planning. Scientific contributions include collaborative projects such as Detect2Protect: New approaches for chemical pollution impact assessment LIFE REEF: Ecosystem service-focused marine research Maritime spatial planning tool development for Baltic policy implementation His work bridges empirical field studies with policy-relevant applications for Baltic Sea management. Professional engagement includes leadership in the institute where he directs research initiatives while maintaining active publication output. Current projects address microplastic pollution baselines, contaminant trophic magnification, and ecosystem service valuation for marine protected areas. His research group collaborates extensively across Baltic institutions to tackle regional environmental challenges through integrated approaches combining chemistry, ecology, and policy analysis.