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Shabnam RaayaiView profile

Assistant Professor

• Fluid Mechanics
• Aerodynamics
• Flow Control
• +4 more

Shabnam Raayai is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Boston University. Her research focuses on fluid mechanics, aerodynamics, and flow control, particularly exploring bio-inspired designs such as riblet surfaces and V-formation dynamics. She holds a PhD and MS in Mechanical Engineering from MIT. Education: PhD (MIT, 201?), MS (MIT, 201?) Her research integrates experimental, theoretical, and computational approaches to study drag reduction techniques and fluid dynamics in nature-inspired systems. Key interests include fluid-solid interactions, laser diagnostic methods, and complex geometric boundary analyses. Her recent work examines riblet-covered surfaces for drag reduction, bio-inspired formations, and multi-propeller flow dynamics. She has pioneered techniques like double-light-sheet PIV for studying opaque object flows and volume-controlled cavity expansion for soft material analysis. Awards: Rowland Fellowship (2019-2025) Andreas Acrivos Dissertation Award (2018) Rising Stars in Mechanical Engineering (2018) Her grants and advising activities are not detailed here, but her research team actively explores nature-inspired fluid dynamics applications in engineering systems.

• Virtual Reality
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Haptics
• +7 more

Lung-Pan Cheng is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering at National Taiwan University. His research focuses on creating innovative interfaces that bridge physical and virtual realities, with particular emphasis on virtual reality systems, haptic feedback mechanisms, and perceptual illusions. Dr. Cheng's work explores how to create more immersive and believable virtual experiences through: Novel haptic feedback systems that simulate physical interactions in virtual environments Real walking techniques that overcome physical space limitations in VR Perceptual illusions that enhance the sense of presence in virtual worlds Human actuation approaches that leverage people as part of the VR infrastructure Optical illusions applied to digital media and gaming experiences Advanced fabrication techniques for interactive physical objects His recent publications (2022-2024) demonstrate a continued trajectory of innovation in VR interaction techniques, with work focusing on directional force feedback, infinite vertical navigation, and the integration of optical illusions into virtual experiences. Dr. Cheng's research consistently combines hardware innovation with perceptual psychology to create compelling user experiences that push the boundaries of virtual environments. Dr. Cheng has received notable recognition for his work: Best Paper Award at CHI 2022 for 'AirRacket: Perceptual Design of Ungrounded, Directional Force Feedback to Improve Virtual Racket Sports Experiences' SIC People's Choice Award at UIST 2022 for 'Garnish into Thin Air' His research has been featured in media outlets including MIT News and New Scientist, indicating broader impact beyond academic circles. Dr. Cheng maintains active collaborations with researchers worldwide, as evidenced by his international co-authorship patterns across multiple disciplines including computer science, psychology, and engineering.

Philip JohnsonView profile

Professor

• Quantum Computing
• Theoretical Physics
• Condensed Matter Physics
• +3 more

Philip Johnson is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Physics at American University (AU), where he has been since 2006. He also serves as Director of the Integrated Space Science and Technology Institute (ISSTI), supporting over 20 AU faculty and external partners like NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. His research focuses on quantum computing, superconducting qubits, ultracold atoms, and effective interactions in few-body systems. He holds a PhD in Theoretical Physics from the University of Maryland and completed postdoctoral work at NIST and the University of Maryland's superconducting quantum computing group. His academic leadership roles include Associate Dean of Research for AU's College of Arts and Sciences and service on the American Physical Society's council. His research explores quantum control, nonequilibrium dynamics, and applications in quantum sensing and metrology. Key areas include ultracold bosons in optical lattices, nonlocal interactions, and hybrid machine learning approaches for quantum systems. He collaborates with institutions like the Joint Quantum Institute and Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. Johnson's recent work advances theoretical frameworks for few-atom systems and superconducting qubits, with publications addressing topics like topological properties of interactions and correlations in quantum systems. His contributions span experimental and theoretical physics, emphasizing interdisciplinary applications in space science and technology through ISSTI.

Laura S. StorchView profile

Assistant Professor

• Applied Mathematics
• Chaotic Dynamical Systems
• Critical Transitions
• +4 more

Laura S. Storch is an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Bates College, specializing in theoretical ecology and applied mathematics. Her research focuses on spatial pattern change, ecological transitions, and population dynamics using topological data analysis. She holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of New Hampshire and has conducted postdoctoral research at William & Mary and Oregon State University. Laura collaborates with faculty at William & Mary to co-advise undergraduate summer research projects in mathematical ecology. Her work bridges mathematics and ecology, addressing critical transitions, pattern formation, and population sustainability in complex systems. Her research interests include chaotic dynamical systems, mathematical ecology, and topological methods for analyzing ecological systems. Laura emphasizes applied mathematics in understanding ecological phenomena such as oyster population dynamics in Florida estuaries and spatial gradients affecting species productivity. She is currently on leave for the fall 2025 semester. Though no scientific awards are explicitly mentioned, her contributions to theoretical ecology and interdisciplinary collaboration highlight her scholarly impact. Laura’s advising efforts reflect her commitment to mentoring students in mathematical research, particularly in ecology-related projects.

Yannan ShenView profile

Associate Professor

• Dynamical Systems
• Mathematical Physics
• Numerical Analysis
• +6 more

Yannan Shen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the University of Kansas. Her research focuses on applied mathematics, particularly models from physics and engineering involving optical systems, metamaterials, plasmas, and Bose-Einstein condensates. She employs methods such as asymptotics, variational approximations, rigorous analysis, numerical analysis, and scientific computing to study existence, stability, and dynamics of solitary wave solutions. Her work has been supported by an NSF grant (DMS-206218, 2022-2025). Recent research emphasizes nonlinear wave equations, including the Camassa-Holm system, Novikov equation, and short-pulse equations. She teaches advanced courses like Applied Partial Differential Equations and Numerical PDE, reflecting her expertise in applied mathematics and computational methods. Key research areas: Dynamical systems, mathematical physics, numerical analysis, and nonlinear PDEs Expertise in models involving metamaterials, plasmas, and optical systems Recipient of NSF funding supporting studies on wave systems and liquid crystals

Bodo WiltsView profile

Professor

• Biophotonics
• Structural Color
• Nanotechnology
• +3 more

Bodo Wilts is a Professor at the University of Salzburg in the Chemistry and Physics of Materials department. His research focuses on biophotonics , structural color , and photonic nanostructures in biological systems, particularly insects and beetles. Education Habilitation in Physics, University of Freiburg (2020) PhD in Physics, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen (2013) Diploma in Physics, University of Göttingen (2009) Research Trends Wilts’s recent publications highlight interdisciplinary work bridging biological optics , nanotechnology , and biomimetic materials . Key themes include: Photonic networks in insects (disordered vs. ordered structures) Self-assembly of block copolymers for advanced materials Applications of structural coloration in diagnostics and sensing 3D imaging of photonic nanostructures using X-ray tomography Projects Ra-Dia-M (2025–2026): Label-free SERS diagnostics for melanoma cells Unraveling butterfly scale morphogenesis (2022–2026): Genetics and biomechanics of butterfly scales High-aspect ratio optical structures (2024–2025): Simulation and characterization of optical metamaterials Activities Keynote on Dis/ordered photonic networks in insects (2024) Lectures on Multifunctional colors and nanostructure formation (2024) Presentations on Amorphous photonic networks (2023–2024)

Junping ShiView profile

Professor

• Partial Differential Equations
• Dynamical Systems
• Mathematical Biology
• +4 more

Junping Shi is a Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the College of William & Mary, where he has held academic positions since 2000, including serving as Department Chair from 2018 to 2022. He earned his undergraduate degree from Nankai University (1990–1993) and a Ph.D. from Brigham Young University (1998). His research focuses on partial differential equations, dynamical systems, and mathematical biology, with applications in pattern formation, population dynamics, and ecological modeling. Shi's academic work emphasizes the analysis of reaction-diffusion equations, bifurcation theory, and nonlocal models in biological systems. His recent studies include tumor growth modeling, spatial movement with memory effects, and phytoplankton-virus interactions. He has contributed to understanding pattern formation in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, including marsh vegetation dynamics and predator-prey interactions. His research spans theoretical analysis (e.g., stability, bifurcation, and well-posedness) and applied models in ecology and epidemiology. Notable applications include modeling blue crab population dynamics in Chesapeake Bay and the biodegradation of organic matter influenced by bacterivorous grazing. Shi frequently explores the interplay between spatial heterogeneity, temporal delays, and nonlinear interactions in biological systems.

• Neuroscience
• Olfactory Systems
• Sensory Processing
• +3 more

Dr. Katrin Vogt is a researcher at the University of Konstanz, specializing in neuroethology and sensory systems. Her work focuses on understanding recurrent neural circuits governing state-dependent behavior, particularly in olfactory systems of Drosophila larvae. She leads a subproject investigating hunger-dependent serotonergic modulation in the antennal lobe, collaborating with a doctoral student. Her research bridges vertebrate and invertebrate models to identify conserved network principles across species. Dr. Vogt is part of a DFG-funded interdisciplinary team examining recurrent circuits' roles in flexible behavioral responses to environmental changes. Her research interests include neural circuitry modulation, sensory integration, and behavioral plasticity. Key projects involve analyzing how sensory inputs are modulated by internal states like hunger, and how recurrent connections enable adaptive responses. She has contributed to studies on visual and olfactory memory formation, multisensory integration, and navigational strategies in Drosophila. Publications highlight work on dopamine signaling in taste punishment, social behavior in larvae, and cross-species odor coding principles. Her findings aim to uncover fundamental mechanisms underlying sensory-driven behavior and neural plasticity in both vertebrates and invertebrates.

• Paleoarchaeology
• Lithic Analysis
• History of Archaeology
• +12 more

Michael Chazan is a Professor at the University of Toronto, Department of Anthropology. His research focuses on the Paleolithic periods of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, with expertise in lithic analysis, paleoarchaeology, and the history of archaeology. PhD, Yale University (1992) His work explores early human technological evolution, including the transition from Lower to Middle Paleolithic, fire use in Wonderwerk Cave, and lithic technology in the Levant and South Africa. Key projects involve the Holon site (Israel) and Kathu Pan 1 (South Africa). Recent publications highlight his contributions to understanding prehistoric subsistence strategies, spatial organization, and dating techniques. Collaborative studies with L.K. Horwitz and others emphasize interdisciplinary approaches. Chazan advises graduate student Sarah Ranlett and postdoctoral supervisee Hilary Duke. His fieldwork teams have conducted significant excavations at Wonderwerk Cave, advancing knowledge of Acheulean cultures.

• Active Matter
• Soft Matter Physics
• Ferrofluids
• +12 more

Jaakko Timonen is an Associate Professor and Vice Head of the Department of Applied Physics at Aalto University, where he leads the Active Matter research group. He is also Deputy Director of the Center of Excellence in Life-Inspired Hybrid Materials (LIBER), and holds significant research funding from the Academy of Finland and the European Research Council (ERC StG). His academic journey includes a doctoral degree from Aalto (2013) and postdoctoral research at Northwestern and Harvard Universities. His research interests lie at the intersection of physics, chemistry, and biology, focusing on soft and active matter systems. Key areas include ferrofluids, electrohydrodynamics, liquid-liquid phase separation, colloidal nanoparticles, magnetic control of non-magnetic matter, and advanced optical microscopy. His recent publications span high-impact journals and reveal a strong trend toward bioinspired materials, responsive systems, and biomedical applications such as 3D bioprinting and cancer diagnostics. His work often involves interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of novel experimental techniques. ERC Starting Grant (2019–2024) Academy of Finland Research Fellow (2019–2023) Distinction prize for doctoral thesis (Aalto, 2013) Distinction prize for master’s thesis (Helsinki UT, 2009) Timonen actively supervises PhD and early-career researchers, with several students contributing to recent publications and projects. He leads multiple active grants, including projects on multiscale electrostatic phenomena in nanoparticles and food applications of Pickering emulsions. He also organizes academic events and participates in public outreach, such as the 'Life inspired materials' seminar. His research group maintains strong ties to both fundamental physics and real-world applications in health, sustainability, and advanced materials. He is involved in several research labs and collaborative networks, particularly through the LIBER Center of Excellence, focusing on hybrid materials with life-inspired functions. His team develops custom imaging systems and explores emergent behaviors in active and biological matter, contributing to fields such as non-equilibrium physics, microfluidics, and synthetic biology.

• Solidification
• X-ray Imaging
• Materials Science
• +3 more

Ragnvald Mathiesen serves as Professor in the Department of Physics at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim. His research leverages advanced synchrotron-based X-ray and neutron imaging techniques to investigate dynamic solidification processes in metallic alloys and geomaterials, with significant contributions to understanding microstructure evolution under varied conditions including microgravity. His primary research interests focus on solidification physics , in-situ X-ray radiography/tomography , and microstructure characterization of metallic systems. Key specialties include dendrite growth kinetics, phase transformation dynamics, grain refinement mechanisms in aluminum alloys, and the application of 4D imaging to capture transient phenomena in materials processing. His work bridges fundamental physics with industrial metallurgy applications, particularly in aluminum and magnesium alloy systems. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2019-2025) reveals a consistent emphasis on time-resolved imaging methodologies applied to solidification phenomena. His research demonstrates increasing sophistication in multi-modal imaging (X-ray/neutron), with growing applications in geomaterials and electro-active systems. The publications show strong international collaboration patterns, particularly with European synchrotron facilities like ESRF, and address both fundamental questions in solidification physics and practical challenges in materials processing. Professor Mathiesen actively contributes to the development of advanced X-ray microscopy techniques, as evidenced by his 2017 doctoral dissertation on high-energy X-ray transmission microscopy and recent publications on dark-field imaging and diamond lens optimization. His laboratory work utilizes NTNU's materials characterization infrastructure alongside major international facilities including the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility.

Thorsten AckemannView profile

Professor

• Nonlinear Photonics
• Semiconductor Laser Dynamics
• Self-Organization
• +9 more

Thorsten Ackemann is a Professor of Nonlinear Photonics in the Department of Physics at the University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom. He has been a faculty member since 2005 and was promoted to full Professor in 2012. His research lies at the intersection of nonlinear optics, quantum optics, and complex systems, with strong affiliations to the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences (IPaQS) and SUPA (Scottish Universities Physics Alliance). His research focuses on self-organization in light-matter systems, particularly in cold atoms and semiconductor lasers. Key themes include the formation of spontaneous patterns and phase transitions in cold atomic gases, simulation of condensed matter phenomena, realization of supersolids, and the study of solitons and structured light in vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). His work often bridges fundamental physics with technological applications in photonics and quantum technologies. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in quantum-enhanced interferometry, entanglement generation, optomechanical coupling, and complex soliton dynamics. These works reflect a deep engagement with quantum simulation, nonlinear feedback systems, and collective behavior in nonequilibrium systems. Fellow of the Institute of Physics (IOP), 2012 Fellow of the Optical Society (OSA), 2013 Professor Ackemann has led multiple research projects as Principal Investigator, including EU Horizon 2020 and Leverhulme Trust grants, often in collaboration with leading institutions across Europe and the US. He has supervised several PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, though specific names are not listed in the provided text. He is active in organizing international conferences and workshops, such as the ColOpt Winter School, and serves on professional committees. He is involved in several research groups and networks, including the Photonics Group at Strathclyde, and participates in large-scale collaborative efforts like the Stanford-Scotland Photonics Innovation Collaboration. His lab focuses on experimental and theoretical investigations of nonlinear optical phenomena, particularly in cold atom systems and semiconductor lasers.

• Nanoparticle Science
• Ferrofluid Dynamics
• Aqueous Two-Phase Systems
• +2 more

Carlo Rigoni is a Visiting Professor in the Department of Applied Physics, focusing on non-equilibrium systems and colloidal assembly. His research spans nanoparticle science, ferrofluid dynamics, and aqueous two-phase systems. Education: Doctoral degree in Natural Sciences from University of Padua Active projects: DissNano (2021–2024) on dissipative nanomaterials Research interests include: Coarse-grained modeling of colloidal systems Electrically/magnetically controlled fluid interfaces Self-assembly of nanoparticles in liquid crystals Non-equilibrium pattern formation in soft matter Thermodynamic control of multiphase separation Bio-inspired nanoparticle superlattices His recent publications address computational modeling of aqueous two-phase systems, magnetic colloids, and electroferrofluids. Collaborative activities include conference presentations on interfacial tension, magnetic rollers, and colloidal gradients. He contributes to open scientific datasets and disseminates findings through platforms like ORCID (0000-0001-6960-779X).

• Structural and Tectonic Geology
• Seismic Hazard Assessment
• Fault Mechanics
• +3 more

Giovanni Camanni is an Associate Professor at the Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia. His work focuses on structural geology, fault mechanics, and seismic hazard assessment, with extensive research in fault segmentation, reactivation processes, and 3D geological modeling. Research Interests: Structural geology, tectonic inheritance, fault kinematics, petrophysical reservoir characterization, and volcano-tectonic processes. Teaching: Courses on Seismic Sources and Microzonation , Structural Geology and Tectonics , and Geological Survey , covering advanced fault mapping, displacement analysis, and field methodologies. Techniques: Utilizes 3D seismic reflection data, photogrammetry, unsupervised learning algorithms (DBSCAN/OPTICS), and U-Pb dating for fault and reservoir studies. Applications: Findings contribute to seismic risk mitigation, fluid flow prediction in fractured reservoirs, and urban subsidence management, particularly in southern Italy and Taiwan. Recent Publications (2020-2025): Advanced understanding of fault zone architecture in dolostones, displacement transfer mechanisms in relay zones, Wilson cycle fault reactivation, and multidisciplinary approaches to ground deformation studies.

• Colloid Science
• Encapsulation
• Drying of Dispersions
• +6 more

Professor Alexander Routh is a leading academic in Colloid Science at the University of Cambridge's Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, where he has been based since 2006. His research spans physical sciences with applications in industrial processes and diagnostic technologies. His research focuses on encapsulation techniques , drying dynamics of colloidal dispersions , and energy-efficient industrial modeling . Key areas include pattern formation during film drying, stratification mechanisms, neutron scattering applications, and development of low-cost diagnostic devices through blood droplet analysis. His work bridges fundamental colloid science with practical engineering solutions. Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate strong emphasis on microencapsulation systems for consumer products, magnetic photocatalysts for environmental remediation, and neurodegenerative disease mechanisms through protein aggregation studies. The research consistently integrates experimental work with computational modeling. Routh maintains active collaborations across disciplines, particularly with biomedical researchers studying α-synuclein aggregation and petroleum engineers investigating wellbore integrity. His laboratory work frequently employs advanced imaging and scattering techniques to probe colloidal behavior at micro and nano scales.