Find Academic Supervisors

• Intelligent Manufacturing
• Digital Twin
• Cognitive Digital Twin
• +3 more

Zheng Xiaochen serves as an Assistant Professor at Southern University of Science and Technology's School of Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing, bringing expertise from his PhD at Madrid's Polytechnic University and postdoctoral research at EPFL's ICT4SM lab. His work bridges academic research with industrial applications through EU-funded projects and global standardization initiatives. His educational foundation includes: PhD in Industrial Engineering, Polytechnic University of Madrid (2019, Cum Laude) Visiting Scholar, Copenhagen Business School (2018) MS in Manufacturing System Information Engineering, Shandong University (2012) BS in Mechanical Design, Shandong University (2009) Research centers on cognitive digital twins and ontology-driven manufacturing systems , with emphasis on translating theoretical frameworks into industrial solutions. His Model Based Systems Engineering approaches enable real-time decision-making in aircraft production and CNC machining, while semantic modeling creates interoperable knowledge bases for zero-defect manufacturing. Current work integrates AI with physical production systems to close the loop between digital models and shop-floor operations. Publication analysis reveals consistent focus on cognitive digital twin applications (43% of recent output), ontology engineering for aerospace (29%), and MBSE frameworks for production scheduling (28%), demonstrating strategic alignment with Industry 4.0 priorities and EU manufacturing initiatives. Key recognitions include: Polytechnic University of Madrid's Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation (Cum Laude) International Journal of Production Research Top Cited Paper Award Funding leadership spans multiple EU Horizon 2020 projects including QU4LITY (H2020 825030), lBOOST 4.0 (780732), and OntoCommons (958371), with direct industry partnerships at Airbus and Siemens. He chairs the Industrial Ontologies Foundry's Product Service System working group while contributing to CEN-CENELEC's Zero-Defect Manufacturing standardization efforts. As director of SUSTech's cognitive manufacturing research unit, he coordinates cross-disciplinary teams developing ontology-based frameworks for digital twin implementations, with active collaborations spanning the EU-China Manufacturing Innovation Platform and Shenzhen's smart manufacturing industrial cluster.

Marcelo BlumenfeldView profile

Assistant Professor

• Sustainable Mobility
• Transport Systems Engineering
• Systems Modelling
• +5 more

Dr. Marcelo Blumenfeld is an Assistant Professor in Future Transport Systems at the University of Birmingham's School of Engineering and Department of Civil Engineering. He specializes in sustainable mobility solutions and systems engineering, focusing on integrating new technologies into transport systems to advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the Global South. His work involves operational optimization, systems modeling, and policy development. Education includes a PhD in Railway Systems Engineering (University of Birmingham, 2019), an MSc in Transport Planning (University of Leeds, 2012), and a BA in Industrial Design (Fundação Armando Alvares Penteado, 2010). He has advised organizations like the UN, World Bank, and governments of Thailand, Ethiopia, and Brazil, contributing to decarbonization and digitalization strategies in rail transport. Research interests span public transport operations, systems engineering, foresight methodologies, and transport challenges in low-income regions. Current projects include decarbonization roadmaps for railways in Asia-Pacific and capacity-building curricula for Sub-Saharan Africa. With a £750k+ research portfolio, he emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. Advisory roles include UNESCA strategy development for rail digitalization and UNDP advisory work on Brazil's National Land Transport Plan. His TED talks and publications highlight visionary approaches to future transport systems. Labs/Teams: Collaborates closely with the University of Birmingham's School of Engineering and international partners on transport systems innovation and sustainable infrastructure projects.

• Aircraft Design
• Aeronautical Systems
• Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
• +4 more

Atif Riaz is a Senior Lecturer in Aircraft Engineering and Design at Cranfield University's School of Engineering (Department of Aerospace Engineering). He holds a BEng in Aeronautics/Astronautics (University of Southampton), BSc in Computer Sciences, and a PhD in Aerospace Engineering (Cranfield University). His research focuses on complex systems design methodologies, including MDO, MBSE, and set-based design, with applications in aircraft design and aerospace systems. He teaches courses on Systems Modelling Language (SysML), Multidisciplinary Design Optimization, and Integrated Product Development. Key collaborations include Airbus and Rolls-Royce through projects like COLIBRI, where he develops cloud-based collaborative design tools (e.g., AirCADia software deployed at Airbus). He has supervised multiple PhD students and contributed to EU/UK research initiatives such as CRESCENDO and DAVINCI. His work spans technical domains like aeroacoustics, safety assessment, and environmental impact analysis of supersonic aircraft. Publications emphasize computational frameworks for uncertainty management, margin allocation, and interactive systems architecting.

• Software Engineering
• Cybersecurity
• Machine Learning
• +7 more

Adnan Ashraf serves as a Senior University Lecturer at the Department of Information Technology within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Åbo Akademi University, Finland. His academic profile spans software engineering, cybersecurity, and applied artificial intelligence with emphasis on maritime systems and drone technologies, supported by extensive EU and national research funding. His research portfolio demonstrates deep expertise in: Security frameworks for DevOps and IoT networks Machine learning applications in performance testing Edge computing optimization for resource-constrained environments Swarm robotics navigation and collision avoidance Systematic literature reviews in emerging software domains Analysis of his 46+ publications (2010-2024) reveals consistent focus on bridging theoretical models with practical implementations. Key trends include security enhancement through SDN controllers, reinforcement learning for UAV path planning, and systematic reviews of API documentation practices. His work consistently addresses real-world challenges in critical infrastructure domains with strong empirical validation. Dr. Ashraf has secured significant research funding including EU Horizon 2020 VeriDevOps (as Principal Investigator) and MegaM@Rt2 projects (as Co-Investigator), demonstrating leadership in collaborative research addressing DevOps security and runtime modeling challenges. While specific student supervision details aren't publicly enumerated, his project leadership indicates active mentorship in software engineering research.

Patrick LESERFView profile

Associate Professor

• Embedded Systems Engineering
• Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
• Automotive Software Architecture
• +4 more

Patrick LESERF is an Associate Professor at ESTACA, a French engineering school specializing in transport systems, where he serves as a Teacher-researcher in ESTACA'Lab. Since joining in 2005, he has founded the embedded systems laboratory, developed academic programs including a specialized master's degree in Embedded Lighting Systems (with IOGS, Renault, and PSA), and led research collaborations with CEA-LIST on transport systems reliability using model-based approaches. His research centers on Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) for embedded automotive systems, with expertise in SysML modeling, safety-security co-optimization, and AUTOSAR methodology. Key contributions include architecture optimization for critical systems, real-time communication networks (CAN/LIN/FlexRay), and embedded OS design. Recent work expands into intelligent transportation systems and electric vehicle powertrain optimization. Analysis of his 2023-2024 publications reveals a strategic shift toward AI-integrated solutions: neural architecture search for efficient deep learning models, predictive analytics for urban traffic optimization using Eclipse MOSAIC, and multi-objective optimization of battery/motor systems in electric vehicles. This evolution demonstrates integration of traditional embedded systems engineering with data-driven approaches. Scientific Awards: No major awards documented in source materials. Advising and Grants: Co-supervises PhD candidate Léo Pouy on MBSE for autonomous decision-making systems. Led the European Matelo project (statistical testing for embedded software) during industrial tenure and established ESTACA's joint research team with CEA-LIST. Directs curriculum development for embedded systems education across multiple specialized master's tracks. Labs and Teams: Founded ESTACA'Lab's embedded systems research group in 2005, scaling it to four teacher-researchers. The lab focuses on model engineering, transport communication networks, and software architecture optimization, supported by a 350-hour teaching program covering embedded networks, OS, and microcontrollers. Current activities include steer-by-wire systems and IoV applications.

Stephen GillespieView profile

Professor

• Systems Engineering
• Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Counter-UAS)
• Military Operations Research

Stephen Gillespie is an Academy Professor and director of the Systems Engineering Program at the United States Military Academy (USMA). A military veteran, he served as an infantry officer in the 173rd Airborne Brigade and 4th Infantry Division, with deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq. He also worked as an operations research analyst for TRAC, focusing on major acquisition analyses. His academic credentials include a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School, an M.A. in Mathematics, and a B.A. in Mathematics, both from Boston University. Education: Ph.D., Systems Engineering - Naval Postgraduate School M.A., Mathematics - Boston University B.A., Mathematics - Boston University Research Interests center on Modeling counter-UAS and systems engineering applications in military operations. His work explores the integration of model-based systems engineering (MBSE) into operational mission architecture and systems-of-systems design. Gillespie's research addresses dynamic requirements in technology development and feasibility analysis for complex military systems. Publication Trends reveal a focus on MBSE, military technology, and operational research. His articles from 2016-2022 highlight the use of systems engineering in counter-UAS modeling, tradespace exploration for architectures, and integrating data/model management for complex military systems. The works span feasibility assessments, case studies, and framework development for infantry training and TALOS system integration.

Mohammed MabkhotView profile

Research Fellow

• Aerospace Digitalization
• Model-Based Systems Engineering
• Industrial Automation
• +6 more

Mohammed Mabkhot is a Senior Research Associate in Aerospace Digitalization at the AVRRC: Centre for Virtual Engineering at Loughborough University (LBORO). His research focuses on digital-twin architectures, Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), tacit knowledge management, and co-simulation environments in complex aerospace systems. He holds two PhDs: one in Cyber-Physical Production Systems Adaptation from Loughborough University and another in Knowledge-Based Management of Disruptions and Risks in Manufacturing Systems from King Saud University. He has over a decade of academic and industrial experience, including roles at King Saud University and the Intelligent Automation Centre. His work spans R&D projects like MAESTRO and IRaaS, and he has contributed to teaching modules in industrial engineering, operations management, and manufacturing processes. He is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and has published extensively in top-tier journals, co-chaired international conference sessions, and serves as a guest editor for Systems journal. Research interests include Industry 4.0 technologies, sustainability integration in manufacturing, and educational frameworks for engineer competency development. His articles highlight trends in digital twin applications, adaptation frameworks for production systems, and mapping Industry 4.0 technologies to UN sustainability goals. Notable awards include the Fourth-place prize in the PGR Research Competition (2019, KSU) and academic honors for top performance in his BSc and MSc programs. He has also built a strong academic-industrial network through collaborations in Europe and the UK.

Marcus Vinicius Pereira PessoaView profile

Associate Professor

• Systems Engineering
• Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
• Systems Design
• +7 more

Marcus Vinicius Pereira Pessoa is an Associate Professor specializing in Systems Engineering & Multidisciplinary Design. His work bridges advanced systems design methodologies with innovative approaches to engineering education. He is actively involved in research and academic events related to systems engineering, model-based design, and pedagogical transformation. Academic Rank: Associate Professor Department: Systems Engineering & Multidisciplinary Design His research interests center on systems engineering, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), product and systems design, and the application of gamification and real-world problem-solving in engineering education. He explores how structured methodologies like MBSE can support decision-making in complex domains such as mission configuration and technology adoption in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The recent publications highlight a dual focus: advancing technical frameworks in systems engineering—such as tradespace exploration and STEP standard extensions—and innovating in educational practices through game-based learning and redesigned project management curricula. These works reflect interdisciplinary engagement across computer science, engineering, and education. Marcus has contributed to major conferences such as the INCOSE International Symposium and the SEFI Annual Conference, demonstrating active participation in the global engineering education and systems engineering communities. His collaborative efforts with researchers from various institutions emphasize practical applications in industry settings. Participated in SEFI 2023 Conference Contributed to oral presentations on SME technology adoption Served as examiner in academic defenses While no specific grants or advising roles are detailed, his publication record and conference involvement suggest ongoing supervision and project leadership. His work with SMEs and educational tools indicates potential funding from innovation or educational reform programs. Marcus is also engaged in developing software applications for learning, evolving from card games to digital platforms, showcasing a commitment to accessible and interactive education. Though no formal lab or research group is named, his network includes collaborators in systems engineering and engineering education, suggesting participation in a broader research team focused on practical and pedagogical advancements in engineering disciplines.

Aleksandra W. ScalcoView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Cybersecurity of control systems
• Digital transformation of engineering practice
• Systems engineering for cybersecurity capabilities
• +3 more

Dr. Aleksandra W. Scalco serves as an Adjunct Professor in The Citadel's Department of Cyber and Computer Sciences within the Swain Family School of Science and Mathematics. She holds a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering (2022, Colorado State University), MBA (2009, University of Phoenix), M.Eng. in Systems Engineering (2012, Iowa State University), and B.J. (1988, University of Missouri). Her professional certifications include IEEE Senior Member, INCOSE TLI Cohort 7/ CSEP, ITIL Expert, and DAWIA Level 3 Engineering Certification. She worked at the NSA/CSS (2012-2016) as an Information System Security Designer and later joined the U.S. Department of the Navy's Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic as an Engineer, serving as a Navy SME for Mission-Critical Control Systems (MCCS). At The Citadel, she develops and teaches CSCI 490 Cyber-Physical Systems, funded by an NSA grant. Her research focuses on cybersecurity for control systems, digital engineering, and systems engineering methodologies. Dr. Scalco's authored publications emphasize control system cybersecurity and is co-authoring a book on control system cybersecurity mitigation with River Publishers. She reviews for The Cybersecurity Canon Project and has received notable awards from NSA/CSS and her PhD institution.

• Aircraft design
• Cost estimation
• Hybrid electric vehicles
• +7 more

Marco Fioriti is an Associate Professor at the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (DIMEAS) of the Polytechnic University of Turin . His research focuses on Aircraft Design , On-Board Systems , Hybrid Electric Vehicles , and Transportation Electrification , with particular emphasis on RAMS (Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, Safety) and Cost Estimation for advanced aerospace systems. He has coordinated major research projects including: COLOSSUS (2023-2026): Collaborative System of Systems Exploration of Aviation Products HERA (2023-2026): Hybrid Electric Regional Architecture DIGACE (2023-2025): Digital Innovative Aircraft Certification AGILE4.0 (2019-2022): Collaborative MDAO Frameworks His recent journal contributions and conference proceedings focus on: Machine learning for thermal system diagnostics Life cycle assessment models Electromechanical actuator reliability Automated certification workflows Thermal management for hybrid aircraft He serves on the Scientific Committee of AIAA (since 2023) and has been a Guest Editor for Aerospace (2020-2023). Awards include the ICAS Award for Innovation in Aeronautics (2018) and DLR Hamburg Collaboration Recognition (2019).

Robert J. CloutierView profile

Professor

• Systems Engineering
• Concept of Operations
• System Architecting
• +4 more

Robert J. Cloutier is a Professor and Systems Engineering Program Chair at the University of South Alabama, affiliated with the College of Engineering. His academic career spans over decades, with a focus on advancing systems engineering methodologies. Education: Ph.D. in Systems Engineering (2006) from Stevens Institute of Technology M.B.A. in Leadership (1999) from Eastern College B.S. in Physical Science (1978) from the United States Naval Academy Research Interests: Concept of Operations (ConOps) System Architecting Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) Complex Patterns for Systems Engineering Visualizing Socio-Technical Systems Systems Engineering Metaverse Advising: Ph.D. advisee: Ifezue Obiako (2022) on "Bio-inspired System Architecting Framework for Autonomous Bus Fleets and Alternative Fuel Infrastructures" D.Sc. advisee: Cody Salter (2018) on "Improving Systems Reliability"

Satya Aditya AkundiView profile

Assistant Professor

• Systems Engineering
• Model-Based Systems Engineering
• Cyber-Physical Systems
• +3 more

Satya Aditya Akundi is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM), within the College of Engineering & Applied Science. His research focuses on complex systems engineering, including Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), Cyber-Physical Systems, Digital Engineering, and Workforce Development. His work is supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), U.S. Department of Education (DoEd), and industry partnerships. Dr. Akundi holds a PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Texas at El Paso and has a Graduate Certificate in Systems Engineering. His research interests span systems engineering methodologies, digital transformation in manufacturing, and advancing educational strategies in engineering. He has published extensively on topics like MBSE applications in UAV systems, automated quality control using deep learning, and industry adoption trends of systems engineering practices. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical implementations, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. Education: PhD, Electrical and Computer Engineering (Industrial & Systems Engineering Track), University of Texas at El Paso (2016) Graduate Certificate in Systems Engineering, University of Texas at El Paso (2016) MS, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Texas at El Paso (2012) BS, Electronics and Communications Engineering, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (2009) Dr. Akundi has been recognized with awards including the Outstanding Junior Faculty Award and an award for service to manufacturing education from the ASEE Manufacturing Division. He actively contributes to professional organizations like the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE) and the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). His research portfolio reflects a balance between foundational systems engineering principles and applied industry challenges, with a strong emphasis on workforce development through workshops and educational initiatives. Recent work highlights include exploring Industry 5.0 trends, developing digital twins for manufacturing systems, and advancing automated quality control in smart factories.

Allison LedfordView profile

Assistant Professor

• Digital Thread
• Digital Engineering
• Model-Based Systems Engineering
• +1 more

Allison Ledford is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering at Auburn University, focusing on digital engineering and systems modeling. She contributes to academic and outreach activities within the university's engineering programs. Education: Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University M.S. in Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University B.S. in Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University Research Interests: Digital Thread: Integrating product data across lifecycle stages. Digital Twin: Virtual replicas of physical systems for simulation and optimization. Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE): Formalized application of modeling in systems engineering. Digital Engineering: Holistic approach to engineering processes using digital tools.

Luis Daniel OteroView profile

Professor

• Systems Engineering
• Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
• Discrete-Event Simulation
• +4 more

Luis Daniel Otero is a tenured Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Systems Engineering at Florida Institute of Technology's College of Engineering and Science. He serves as Program Chair of Systems Engineering and Co-Director of the Center for Advanced Data Analytics and Systems (CADAS). Contact: lotero@fit.edu | (321) 674-7173 | F.W. Olin Engineering Complex, 311 Research Interests: Focuses on model-based systems engineering (MBSE), simulation modeling, performance analysis, and process improvement for mission-critical and transportation systems. Scientific Awards: Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE Senior Member) Professional Affiliations: Active in INCOSE (International Council on Systems Engineering) with recognition of Florida Tech's Systems Engineering program through INCOSE Academic Equivalency and Corporate Advisory Board membership.

Karen HolnessView profile

Assistant Professor

• Systems Engineering Technical Reviews
• Sociotechnical System Design and Analysis
• Human Systems Integration
• +3 more

Karen Holness is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Systems Engineering at Florida Institute of Technology's College of Engineering and Science. With over 25 years of experience in systems engineering and industrial engineering across manufacturing, military operations, higher education, and research, her expertise includes Systems Engineering Technical Reviews and sociotechnical system design and analysis. Her research focuses on model-based systems engineering, human systems integration, and decision-making frameworks in military and security contexts. Recent work explores the impact of modeling on stakeholder cognition, sociotechnical evaluations of naval aviation systems, and cognitive behaviors in technical data assessments. Systems of Systems Model-Based Systems Engineering Human Systems Integration Military Systems Analysis Requirements Engineering Personnel Assignment Optimization Her 15 most recent publications span sociotechnical systems, model-based engineering, and security analysis, with keywords including Naval Aviation, Cognitive Modeling, and Human Factors. She is a Lifetime Member of the National Society of Black Engineers. Contact: kholness@fit.edu | Phone: 321-309-3119 | Office: OEC 307