Andrea Carminati is a Full Professor at the Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich. His research focuses on soil-plant hydraulics , rhizosphere dynamics , and drought adaptation mechanisms in crops and forest species. He investigates how root traits , soil texture , and biogenic substances like mucilage influence water uptake , gas exchange , and soil microbial activity . Key Research Areas: Soil-Plant Water Relations Rhizosphere Hydrology Drought Resistance in Maize and Trees Microplastics in Agricultural Soils Hydraulic Redistribution and Isohydricity Contact: Email: andrea.carminati@usys.ethz.ch Phone: +41 44 633 61 60 Recent studies highlight his work on soil texture-specific transpiration responses , rhizosheath properties under drought , and microplastic impacts on soil hydrology . He employs advanced techniques like X-ray computed tomography and neutron radiography to visualize root-soil interactions.
Edward Andò is a Principal Scientist and Lecturer at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) , with affiliations to the IMAGING group and the College of Engineering (ENAC) . His work bridges software development, experimental geomechanics, and educational initiatives in image analysis. Principal Scientist, IMAGING-GE (EPFL) Lecturer, Sciences et Génie Civil (SGC-ENS) Lecturer, Enseignement à la Défense (EDEE-ENS) Research Interests Andò specializes in 3D image analysis , with a focus on X-ray tomography , digital volume correlation (DVC) , and micromechanical modeling of granular materials. His work addresses geomechanical failure mechanisms, soil dynamics, and open-source software tools like SPAM for practical material analysis. Publication Trends His recent articles (2025–2023) emphasize X-ray tomography for studying granular deformation , rock failure , medical imaging , and soft particle compaction . Topics span geomechanics, computational modeling, and software development for experimental validation. Labs and Teams Andò contributes to the IMAGING group at EPFL, where he co-develops the SPAM (Software for Practical Analysis of Materials) . His teaching includes courses like Fundamentals of Image Analysis and Quantitative Imaging for Engineers , which integrate hands-on training with theoretical frameworks.
Professor Moncef Gabbouj is a distinguished academic and researcher currently serving as Professor of Signal Processing at the Department of Computing Sciences, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, Finland. Previously, he held the same position at Tampere University of Technology before the merger in 2019. He has also held visiting professorships at prestigious institutions including Hong Kong University of Technology and Science, University of Southern California, and Purdue University. Ph.D. and MSc. in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University, USA (1989 and 1986) B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering from Oklahoma State University, USA (1985) Prof. Gabbouj's research spans multiple domains within signal and image processing, with a strong focus on machine learning applications. His primary research interests include artificial intelligence, machine learning, Big Data analytics, multimedia content-based analysis, indexing and retrieval, nonlinear signal and image processing, voice conversion, and video processing and coding. His work bridges theoretical advancements with practical applications across various industries, particularly in multimedia communications and biomedical applications. His extensive publication record demonstrates a clear evolution from traditional signal processing techniques toward more sophisticated machine learning and deep learning approaches. Recent work shows increasing focus on convolutional neural networks for various applications including ECG classification, video processing, financial time-series analysis, and image recognition tasks, reflecting the broader trend in the field toward deep learning methodologies while maintaining strong foundations in signal processing theory. IEEE Fellow (2011) Member, Finnish Academy of Science and Letters (2014) Knight, First Class, of the Order of the White Rose of Finland (2006) Nokia Foundation Recognition Award (2005) Nokia Foundation Visiting Professor Award (2012) Finnish Cultural Foundation for Art and Science Award (2017) TUT Foundation Grand Award (2015) Prof. Gabbouj has supervised 64 doctoral and 72 Master's theses, demonstrating his significant contribution to academic mentoring. His research has been supported by substantial funding, including research grants totaling 8.5 million Euro (2001-2015). He has served as Academy of Finland Professor during 2011-2015 and has been involved in numerous EU research projects including Horizon, ESPRIT, HCM, IST, COST, Tempus and Erasmus programs. As Editor, Guest Editor or member of the Editorial Board of 6 international scientific journals, he has significantly influenced the academic discourse in his field. He leads the Signal Analysis and Machine Intelligence (SAMI) research group at Tampere University and serves as the Finland Site Director of the NSF IUCRC funded Center for Visual and Decision Informatics. His research unit focuses on applying advanced machine learning techniques to solve complex problems in signal processing, computer vision, and multimedia analytics, with applications ranging from healthcare to multimedia communications and financial analysis.
Professor Fernando Calamante is a Professor of Biomedical Engineering at The University of Sydney and Director of Sydney Imaging Core Research Facility. He leads the National Imaging Facility node and focuses on advanced MRI methodologies, particularly Diffusion and Perfusion MRI, to study brain connectivity and neurological disorders. His work includes developing the MRtrix software, widely used in diffusion MRI analysis. He holds extensive funding (~$50M) and has been recognized with awards like ISMRM Fellowship and NHMRC grants. His research spans super-resolution imaging, brain connectomics, and clinical applications in stroke and tumors. Education: BSc (Physics, Argentina), PhD (Magnetic Resonance Imaging, University College London). Career highlights include leadership roles at The Florey Institute and ISMRM presidency (2021-2022). Research interests include: Novel MRI methods for brain connectivity and super-resolution imaging Applications of Diffusion and Perfusion MRI in neurology Integration of structural and functional connectomics Key achievements: Over 200 publications, software innovations, and leadership in global MRI societies.
Nishant Garg is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. His research focuses on sustainable construction materials, particularly cement-based systems, leveraging advanced characterization techniques such as X-ray scattering, neutron diffraction, and Raman imaging. His work addresses environmental sustainability through innovations in low-carbon materials, waste utilization, and durability enhancement. Education: Ph.D. in Nanoscience, Aarhus University (2015) M.S. in Civil Engineering Materials, Iowa State University (2012) B.E. and Diploma in Civil Engineering, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology and Chandigarh College of Eng. & Tech. (2010, 2007) Research Interests: Sustainable cement chemistry, material characterization, carbonation processes, and development of eco-friendly construction materials. His lab, the Garg Group, emphasizes multi-scale analysis (nano-to-macro) to bridge fundamental science and practical applications. Key Contributions: Innovations include the UR2 test for cement reactivity, SorpVision for automated sorptivity assessment, and VR tools for materials education. These advances aim to reduce costs, improve material performance, and promote circular economy practices. Awards and Roles: Dean’s Award for Excellence in Research (2025) Member, Transportation Research Board AKM 50 Committee (2025–Present) Recipient of American Ceramic Society’s Stephen Brunauer Award (2021) Advising and Grants: Actively recruiting MS/Ph.D. students. Leads initiatives on low-carbon concrete, funded by NSF and industry collaborations. Serves on CEE advisory committees and graduate admissions. Labs/Teams: The Garg Group integrates interdisciplinary approaches, collaborating with materials scientists, engineers, and data scientists to tackle global infrastructure challenges.
Essa Yacoub is a Professor in the Department of Radiology at the University of Minnesota, affiliated with the PhD Program in Medical Physics and the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research. His work focuses on advancing MRI and fMRI technologies, particularly at ultrahigh magnetic fields (e.g., 10.5 T), to achieve unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution in brain imaging. He leads projects in RF coil design, noise reduction algorithms, and developmental neuroimaging. Roles: Professor, Medical Physics Program Faculty Affiliations: Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Department of Radiology Research emphasizes high-resolution fMRI applications, including layer-specific brain mapping, pediatric neurodevelopment studies (e.g., Baby Connectome Project), and translational tools like BIBSNet for infant brain segmentation. His innovations bridge hardware engineering (RF coils) and software (denoising pipelines) to tackle challenges in mesoscopic-scale imaging. Key contributions include optimizing imaging protocols at 7T/10.5T, developing NORDIC denoising for submillimeter data, and advancing understanding of brain networks in aging and neurological disorders. His work is foundational for large-scale initiatives like the Human Connectome Project and non-human primate neuroimaging collaborations. Grants and collaborations focus on translational imaging technologies, while educational contributions include training through the Medical Physics PhD Program. Ongoing efforts aim to refine ultra-high field MRI applications for clinical and basic neuroscience research.
Richard B. Sowers is a Professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, holding joint appointments in the Department of Industrial and Enterprise Systems Engineering, Mathematics, and Statistics (courtesy). He has held faculty positions since 1996, starting as an Assistant Professor in Mathematics and advancing to Professor across multiple departments. His research spans stochastic processes, financial engineering, and data analytics. He also serves as a Research Principal at the Office of Financial Research since 2012. Education: B.S. in Electrical Engineering (Drexel University, 1986), M.S. and Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics (University of Maryland, 1988 and 1991). Research Interests: Financial networks, stochastic systems, and applications in decision-making and control. His work bridges theoretical probability with practical domains like finance and healthcare. Recent articles focus on machine learning applications in gait analysis for neurological disorders and stochastic modeling in financial systems. Professional Contributions: Taught courses in stochastic calculus, deep learning, and financial mathematics. His research often involves interdisciplinary collaboration, including projects on credit risk, algorithmic trading, and wearable technology for health monitoring. Labs/Teams: Active in the Institute for Predictive and Computational Science, focusing on data-driven solutions for complex systems.
Dr. Guohong Tian is a Senior Lecturer in Automotive Engineering at the University of Surrey's School of Mechanical Engineering Sciences. He holds roles including Departmental representative for the Faculty International Relations Committee and coordinator for Headstart and Summer School programs. His research focuses on advanced engine technologies, alternative fuels, and thermal management systems. Prior to Surrey, he was at Newcastle University (2010–2015) and Birmingham University as a Research Fellow (2008–2010). Education: PhD in Mechanical Engineering (Birmingham University). Collaborations: Jaguar Land Rover, Cummins, BP, Shell, JCB, and Avid. Research areas include: Internal combustion engines: novel designs (free piston, scroll engines), waste heat recovery via ORC, and desalination integration. Battery thermal management using capillary-driven cooling and heat pipes. Soot oxidation mechanisms and catalytic diesel particulate filters. Key projects: KTP project with William Medcalf Limited improving vintage engine performance. ADVICE-ADvancing thermal energy management in hybrid vehicles. Publications emphasize combustion diagnostics, emission reduction, and scroll expander optimization. He supervises students on pyrolysis oils and scroll expander development. His lab includes a state-of-the-art engine test bench with FTIR emission analysis and high-speed imaging systems.
Teng-Fong Wong is a Research Professor in the Department of Geosciences at Stony Brook University, where he has been a faculty member since 1982. His research focuses on the intersection of rock mechanics, earthquake processes, and environmental applications, making significant contributions to understanding deformation mechanisms in geological materials. Education: Sc.B., Brown University, 1973 M.S., Harvard University, 1976 Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1981 Research Interests: Professor Wong's research centers on rock mechanics with emphasis on earthquake mechanics, energy resources, and environmental applications. He investigates both phenomenological and micromechanical aspects of rock deformation and fluid flow using an integrated approach combining high-pressure deformation experiments, quantitative microstructure characterization, and theoretical analysis. His work spans brittle-ductile transitions in porous rocks, permeability evolution, strength properties of fault zone materials from SAFOD and TCDP drilling projects, and submarine groundwater discharge systems. Publication Trends: Wong's recent publications (2006-2008) demonstrate a consistent focus on strain localization mechanisms in porous rocks, particularly examining compaction bands and deformation bands in sandstones. His work integrates advanced imaging techniques (X-ray radiography, CT scanning) with mechanical testing to understand the micromechanics of rock failure. A significant thread connects his research on fault zone properties from major drilling projects (SAFOD, TCDP) with fundamental rock deformation processes. Scientific Recognition: U.S. Patent 6,874,371 for Ultrasonic Seepage Meter (2005) U.S. Patent 7,107,859 for Ultrasonic Seepage Meter (2006) Co-author of "Experimental Rock Deformation - The Brittle Field" (2nd Edition, Springer-Verlag, 2005) Professional Activities: Professor Wong maintains an active international research profile with numerous visiting appointments including at Australian National University, MIT, ETH Zurich, and institutions in China and France. His work involves extensive collaboration with USGS and international research teams on major fault zone drilling projects. He has developed specialized equipment like the ultrasonic seepage meter for measuring submarine groundwater discharge. Research Infrastructure: Wong's laboratory utilizes advanced capabilities including high-pressure deformation equipment, 3D visualization through laser scanning confocal microscopy and synchrotron microCT, and integrates these with analytic modeling and numerical simulation techniques (finite element and discrete element methods) to investigate micromechanics of dilatant and compactant failure in geological materials.
Professor Iwona M. Jasiuk is a multi-disciplinary academic affiliated with the University of Illinois, holding professorships in Mechanical Science and Engineering, Biomedical and Translational Sciences, Bioengineering, Aerospace Engineering, and other departments. She is also affiliated with the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA), Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, and the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology. Her research focuses on composite materials, bio-inspired structures, additive manufacturing, and computational mechanics, with a strong emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence into materials science. Her work spans topics such as material characterization, metamaterials design, and radiation effects on materials. Notable research areas include thin-ply composites, lattice structures derived from geometric principles, and the mechanical properties of bio-inspired systems like equine hoof walls. She has pioneered the use of deep learning networks for predicting material behavior in complex systems. Professor Jasiuk has received prestigious awards, including the ASME Fellow, SES Fellow, and Vebleo Scientist Award. Her research is supported by collaborations across engineering, biology, and computational fields, leveraging advanced facilities like NCSA for high-performance computing.
A. Alperen Günay is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Bilkent University . He previously served as an Assistant Professor at METU (2021-2023) and as a researcher at The University of Tokyo (2019-2021). Günay earned his PhD and MS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign under Dr. Nenad Miljkovic. Current Affiliation: Bilkent University Prior Affiliations: METU, University of Tokyo Education: PhD (UIUC), MS (UIUC), BS (METU) Research Focus : Developing green passive thermal devices through nanomaterials and phase change technologies. Key areas include radiative cooling , thermophotovoltaic systems , and nanomaterial-based heat sinks . His work spans energy conversion, thermal management, and optical property characterization. Scientific Awards : TÜBİTAK 2232-B Award Laboratory Leadership : Dr. Günay directs the Thermal Research & Optics Laboratory (TROL), focusing on projects like metal-organic framework systems , passive evaporative cooling , and greenhouse films for year-round thermal regulation .
Jeffrey Dick is the Richard B. Wetherill Professor of Chemistry at Purdue University, affiliated with the Department of Chemistry. His research focuses on developing novel electrochemical techniques to explore confined chemical systems, with applications in analytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, and energy storage. He leads the Dick Research Group, which investigates nanodroplet chemistry, aqueous metal batteries, and tumor analysis through advanced electrochemical methodologies. Research Interests: Electrochemistry in nanoscale and confined environments Development of cutting-edge analytical tools for real-time chemical analysis Electrochemical strategies for detecting environmental pollutants like PFAS Design of high-performance aqueous zinc batteries Nanoparticle synthesis via electrodeposition in nanodroplets Key Achievements: Recipient of the Richard B. Wetherill Professorship Recognition of student Patrick as an NSF Fellow (2025) Leadership in multiphase electrochemistry and biosensing innovations Advising & Grants: Mentorship of students in interdisciplinary research projects Development of educational modules for electrochemistry outreach Labs/Teams: The Dick Research Group operates in West Lafayette, focusing on multiphase electrochemistry and nanotechnology. Regular group meetings (every other week) discuss battery systems and tumor analysis, with a strong emphasis on collaborative innovation.
Dr. Daan van Rooij serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Experimental Psychology at Utrecht University's Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences. His academic work is centered within the Helmholtz Institute Experimental Psychology research program under Chair Kenemans. His research expertise spans Cognitive Neuroscience, Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Psychology, Disruptive Behaviour Disorders (specifically ADHD, ODD, CD), Cognitive Development, and Artificial Intelligence. Van Rooij employs fMRI and EEG imaging metrics to study brain development during childhood and adolescence, with particular focus on understanding how biological and environmental factors shape the development of impulsive behavior in youth. His scholarly publications demonstrate strong contributions to autism research, ADHD symptomology, and the genetic architecture of brain structures, with work appearing in high-impact journals including Molecular Autism, NeuroImage: Clinical, and Nature Genetics. Dr. van Rooij teaches various courses within the bachelor and master programs of Applied Cognitive Psychology, as well as AI bachelor and master tracks at Utrecht University, including courses such as 'Artificial Intelligence for an Open Society' and 'Experimentele methoden en statistiek' (Experimental Methods and Statistics).
Marc De Graef is the John and Claire Bertucci Distinguished Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). He leads the J. Earle and Mary Roberts Materials Characterization Laboratory and is affiliated with the Materials Science and Engineering Department within the College of Engineering. De Graef holds dual roles as a faculty director and researcher, specializing in advanced materials characterization techniques, particularly electron microscopy and microstructural analysis. Education: Ph.D. in Physics, Catholic University of Leuven (1989) M.S. and B.S. in Physics, University of Antwerp (1983) Research Interests: De Graef's work focuses on 3D microstructure analysis, materials informatics, magnetic materials, and advanced characterization methods like Lorentz microscopy. His research emphasizes quantitative electron microscopy techniques, including electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and their application to study complex materials systems. He has pioneered software tools for materials characterization, such as orientation mapping algorithms and dictionary-based indexing methods. Key Achievements: Recipient of the 2025 Microscopy Society of America Distinguished Scientist Award Author/co-author of over 350 publications and two textbooks: Introduction to Conventional Transmission Electron Microscopy and Structure of Materials Principal investigator on grants including a $7.5M Air Force-funded Center of Excellence in data-driven materials research Lab & Collaborations: Directs the Materials Characterization Facility at CMU, advancing capabilities in X-ray and electron microscopy. His team collaborates on projects involving additive manufacturing, magnetic domain analysis, and topological magnetic structures. Recent work includes studies on skyrmions in thin films and phase stability in novel alloys.
Ulrich Tallarek serves as Professor of Analytical Chemistry in the Faculty of Chemistry at Philipps University of Marburg, where he has held a W3 professorship since 2011. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Materials Science Center at the university, a position he has held since 2007. His research group focuses on the fundamental understanding of transport phenomena in porous media with applications spanning chromatography, battery technology, and microfluidic systems. The group maintains strong collaborations with institutions worldwide and secures substantial research funding for advanced computational and experimental work. Professor Tallarek's research interests center on functional porous solids, with specific focus on morphology-transport-performance relationships. His work bridges multiple scales from molecular dynamics simulations of solute behavior in nanopores to macroscopic transport in chromatographic columns and battery electrodes. Key research areas include diffusion in hierarchical porous media, electrokinetic phenomena in microfluidic systems, molecular simulation of chromatographic processes, and advanced characterization of porous materials using tomography and other techniques. His group has pioneered multiscale simulation approaches that connect molecular-level surface chemistry to macroscopic transport properties. The research output demonstrates consistent focus on understanding fundamental transport mechanisms in porous systems, with recent publications emphasizing multiscale simulation techniques, molecular dynamics studies of solvent effects in chromatography, advanced characterization of mesoporous structures, and applications to separation science and energy storage. The work shows strong integration of computational modeling with experimental validation across multiple length scales. 2003: Desty Memorial Prize for Innovation in Separation Science, The Royal Institution of Great Britain, London 2006: Young Scientist Award from DECHEMA e.V. 2011: Named Discussion Leader at the 2011 Gordon Research Conference on Physics & Chemistry of Microfluidics 2011–2012: Chairman of the German Chemical Society (GDCh), Marburg 2013: Finalist, World Technology Awards, for category Environment 2013: Named as one of the 100 most influential analytical scientists in the world (The Analytical Scientist Power List) 2017: Recipient of the Silver Jubilee Medal 2017, The Chromatographic Society, UK Professor Tallarek's research has been supported by numerous grants enabling high-performance computing resources, advanced instrumentation, and international collaborations. His group maintains strong ties with industry partners in separation science and analytical instrumentation. The Tallarek Research Group includes postdoctoral researchers, PhD students, and technical staff working across experimental and computational domains. Current projects focus on molecular simulation of chromatographic processes, advanced characterization of porous battery electrodes, and development of novel separation methodologies. The Tallarek Research Group operates state-of-the-art facilities for computational modeling, including access to high-performance computing resources at Forschungszentrum Jülich. The group also maintains experimental capabilities for chromatographic analysis, materials characterization, and microfluidic device development. Their work on physically reconstructed porous media has established new standards for connecting microstructure to transport properties in complex materials systems.
