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Haim H. BauView profile

Professor

• Microfluidics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Applied Physics
• +3 more

Haim H. Bau is the Richard H. & S. L. Gabel Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania. His research bridges mechanical engineering, biomedical applications, and nanotechnology, focusing on microfluidics and molecular detection technologies. Key affiliations: School of Engineering and Applied Science, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics Research Highlights: Active Control of Flow Patterns Carbon Nanopipettes for Cellular Probes Electrokinetics and Dielectrophoresis In Situ Electron Microscopy (Nanoaquarium) Magneto-Hydrodynamics (MHD) Lab-on-a-Chip for Point-of-Care Diagnostics Scientific Awards: Richard H. & S. L. Gabel Professorship Article Trends: Recent work emphasizes portable microfluidic diagnostics (e.g., SARS-CoV-2, HIV, Zika), CRISPR-enhanced mutation detection, and biophysical studies of microswimmers like C. elegans. Keywords include Molecular Diagnostics, Microfluidics, and Nanotechnology.

Andrea FossatiView profile

Assistant Professor

• Bacterial Defense Systems
• Phage Biology
• Virology
• +5 more

Andrea Fossati is a DDLS Fellow and Principal Investigator at Karolinska Institutet, leading the Fossati Lab at SciLifeLab. His research focuses on bacterial defense systems and phage biology, utilizing interaction proteomics and machine learning to develop novel strategies against antibiotic-resistant bacteria by disabling bacterial immunity during phage-bacterial warfare. Dr. Fossati's work centers on discovering bacterial defense mechanisms and phage counter-defense systems through advanced proteomic techniques like DIP-MS and quantitative interaction mapping. His lab integrates systems biology and machine learning to analyze host-pathogen interactions, with emphasis on jumbo phage infection mechanisms and lipid compartment formation. This research directly targets the enhancement of phage therapy efficacy by tilting the evolutionary balance toward phages. His publication trends reveal deep specialization in virology and microbiology, with dominant themes in bacterial immunity, phage-bacteria interactions, and proteomic methodology development. Over 80% of recent work involves jumbo phages and defense system characterization, while computational frameworks like PCprophet demonstrate cross-disciplinary integration of machine learning. Scientific awards: DDLS Fellow Dr. Fossati actively mentors the next generation of scientists, currently supervising two PhD students and collaborating with three postdoctoral researchers. His DDLS fellowship provides substantial research funding enabling cutting-edge instrumentation for proteomic analysis and high-throughput screening of phage-bacterial interactions, with recent grants focusing on quantitative interaction mapping and defense system discovery. The Fossati Lab operates within SciLifeLab's national infrastructure, maintaining close collaborations with leading proteomics and virology groups across Europe. The team specializes in next-generation interaction proteomics, developing novel methodologies for complex deconvolution while maintaining strong computational biology capabilities for data analysis and machine learning applications in host-pathogen systems.

Christopher BlackwoodView profile

Professor

• Community ecology of plants and microorganisms
• Plant-fungal interactions
• Root traits
• +3 more

Christopher Blackwood is a Professor in the Department of Plant Biology at Michigan State University, with additional appointments in Plant Soil and Microbial Sciences and the Ecology, Evolution & Behavior Program. Based in the Plant Biology Lab (S124), his research examines soil-plant-microbe interactions and their critical roles in ecosystem processes and soil carbon dynamics. Education: Ph.D. from Michigan State University His research spans community ecology of plants and microorganisms, plant-fungal interactions, root traits, and soil biogeochemistry. Current projects investigate coexistence mechanisms of closely related plant species, cascading effects of tree root traits on pathogens and soil carbon, forest restoration dynamics, and urban green roof performance. His work integrates field studies with molecular approaches to understand belowground ecological processes. Analysis of recent publications (2021-2025) reveals consistent focus on plant-soil feedbacks, fungal community ecology, and soil carbon dynamics. Key themes include mycorrhizal influences on plant-fungal coevolution, root trait evolution across plant lineages, and applications to sustainable land management. His work bridges fundamental ecological theory with practical restoration ecology. Dr. Blackwood leads an active research laboratory funded by competitive grants, mentoring graduate students in plant and soil ecology. His team investigates soil biota across diverse ecosystems including temperate forests, agricultural landscapes, and urban green infrastructure. His laboratory conducts research on soil organism ecology, plant-microbe interactions, and ecosystem functioning, with ongoing projects in forest restoration, green roof optimization, and soil carbon dynamics across multiple spatial scales.

Laurence BindschedlerView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Molecular plant pathology
• Quantitative plant proteomics
• Biotic stress
• +5 more

Laurence Bindschedler is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences at Royal Holloway, University of London , specializing in plant-pathogen interactions and crop proteomics. Previously active in research output until 2023, they focus on molecular plant pathology and stress responses in crops. Plant Molecular Sciences Mass spectrometry applications Stable Isotope labeling in hydroponics Research interests span effector protein mechanisms in Blumeria graminis infections (barley and strawberry powdery mildew), in planta gene silencing methods, and reactive oxygen species' role in biotic/abiotic stress. Their work adapts quantitative proteomics (N15 labeling) to Brassicas and other crops. Article trends emphasize fungal effector biology, proteomic responses to pathogens, hormone signaling, and stress adaptation in cereals. Keywords include plant pathology, proteomics, genomics, and molecular genetics. Projects include BBSRC-funded phytogene therapy development (2015-2019) and EPSRC-supported chemical biology networks (2013). They served as Programme Committee Member at the 2013-2014 INPPO conference and presented at multiple plant pathology meetings. Labs & teams collaborate internationally on fungal pathogen research, with recent country-level network connections. Their work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to food security and sustainable agriculture.

Muhammed Shafeekh MuyyarikkandyView profile

Assistant Professor

• One Health
• Food Safety
• Antimicrobial Resistance
• +5 more

Muhammed Shafeekh Muyyarikkandy serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences within the University of Delaware's College of Agriculture & Natural Resources. His academic appointment focuses on Interdisciplinary Food Animal Product Quality and Food Safety, positioning him at the nexus of veterinary science, microbiology, and public health policy through the One Health framework. Education: Ph.D. in Animal Science - Food Microbiology and Safety from University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT M.S. in Animal Science from University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT B.V.Sc. & A.H. (equivalent to D.V.M.) from Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad, India Dr. Muyyarikkandy's research centers on host-pathogen dynamics with emphasis on combating antimicrobial resistance in foodborne infections. His lab investigates how altered intracellular redox status in host tissues induces oxidative damage to intracellular pathogens, utilizing dietary interventions in chicken and mouse models to reduce subclinical infections. Complementing this, his team explores gut microbiome restoration through culturome approaches to prevent pathogen colonization. This dual-strategy research directly addresses critical zoonotic disease transmission pathways and informs evidence-based public health interventions for food safety. He maintains active professional engagement through memberships in the American Society of Microbiology, American Society of Nutrition, Poultry Science Association, and Conference of Research Workers in Animal Diseases.

• Parasitology
• Vector Biology
• Veterinary Medicine
• +3 more

Kathryn E. Reif is an Associate Professor and inaugural holder of the Bailey-Goodwin Endowed Chair in Parasitology at the Department of Pathobiology in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University. She previously served as a tenure-track Assistant Professor at Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and completed postdoctoral fellowships at Washington State University’s Department of Veterinary Medicine and Pathobiology and the USDA-ARS Animal Disease Research Unit. PhD, Louisiana State University, Pathobiology MSPH, Tulane University, Tropical Medicine Dr. Reif’s research focuses on vectors and vector-borne diseases of veterinary, medical, and agricultural significance, particularly ticks and tick-borne pathogens. Her ongoing projects include: Real-time monitoring of tick salivation and feeding behaviors Evaluating antimicrobial and ectoparasiticide efficacy Investigating transmission dynamics and control strategies for bovine anaplasmosis and theileriosis Tick-borne pathogen surveillance and vaccine development Her work bridges public health, veterinary medicine, and agricultural systems, with a strong emphasis on translational research and stakeholder engagement. NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein Postdoctoral Fellowship Bailey-Goodwin Endowed Chair in Parasitology Dr. Reif actively engages veterinarians, producers, and clinicians through collaborative research and outreach presentations on tick-borne pathogens. While specific grants are not detailed, her postdoctoral and faculty appointments suggest a history of securing competitive research funding.

• Biosecurity science and invasive species ecology
• Virology
• Forensic biology
• +3 more

Dr. Francisco Ochoa Corona is a Professor at Oklahoma State University's Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology and the Institute for Biosecurity & Microbial Forensics. His expertise spans forensic plant pathology, agricultural biosecurity, and microbial forensics. He develops diagnostic tools for plant viruses and phytopathogens, focusing on biosecurity threats and emergency management. His research integrates molecular biology, genomics, and field-deployable diagnostics. Education: Agricultural Engineering, Universidad del Zulia, Venezuela M.S. in Plant Protection, University of Central Venezuela Ph.D. in Plant Pathology (Plant Virology), University of Florida Postdoctoral training in Plant Virology at the University of Florida Research Interests: Development of diagnostics for plant viruses and vectors Biosecurity and microbial forensics applications Waterborne plant viruses and arthropod surveillance Emerging pathogens and global disease dynamics EDNA (Electronic-probe Diagnostic Nucleic-acid Analysis) technology Pathogen genomics and molecular signatures Teaching: Courses include Global Agricultural Biosecurity and Forensics, Plant Virology, and Seed Pathology Fundamentals. He employs a 'Coach-Athlete' model emphasizing collaborative learning and problem-solving. Grants & Funding: Leads projects funded by USDA-NIFA, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and industry partnerships. Recent grants focus on wheat disease resistance, rose rosette disease, and diagnostic tool development. Labs & Teams: Heads a research team advancing EDNA platforms, LAMP assays, and molecular diagnostics. Collaborates with global institutions on biosecurity and plant health initiatives.

Caren GoldbergView profile

Assistant Professor

• Environmental DNA (eDNA) applications
• Amphibian ecology
• Landscape genetics
• +4 more

Caren Goldberg is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Entomology at Washington State University (WSU), affiliated with the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS). Her research focuses on ecological modeling and conservation biology, particularly using environmental DNA (eDNA) and landscape genetics to study species distribution and connectivity. Education : Ph.D., University of Idaho (Fish and Wildlife Resources); M.S., University of Arizona (Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences); B.A., University of California, Berkeley (Integrative Biology). Research Interests : Goldberg’s work emphasizes eDNA applications for detecting rare species, amphibian spatial ecology, and mitigating invasive species impacts. Key projects include: Developing eDNA tools for aquatic biodiversity monitoring Landscape genetics of pond-breeding amphibians Quantifying pathogen transmission in wild populations Integrating eDNA with conventional field methods Survey Methods and Tools : Goldberg’s team has pioneered eDNA sampling systems like the ANDe™ device and validated protocols for pathogen detection in trade settings. Her work addresses methodological challenges, such as optimizing sampling designs for variable environmental conditions. Advising and Grants : While specific grant details are not listed, her extensive publication record indicates sustained funding for ecological and conservation research. She collaborates with national parks, wildlife agencies, and international organizations to apply eDNA technologies in conservation planning. Labs and Teams : Goldberg leads a research group within the WSU Department of Entomology, focusing on ecological and genetic approaches to conservation challenges. Her work often involves interdisciplinary teams tackling global biodiversity crises.

Michael J TiszaView profile

Assistant Professor

• Virology
• Microbiology
• Metagenomics
• +5 more

Michael J Tisza is an Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine , specializing in Molecular Virology & Microbiology. His research focuses on virome dynamics, wastewater surveillance, and microbial genomics. He leads the Tisza Lab, which investigates phage-bacteria interactions in the gut microbiome and viral epidemiology through metagenomics. Key research areas include longitudinal studies of infant gut microbiomes, detection of pathogens like avian influenza and measles via wastewater analysis, and developing tools like the Marker-MAGu pipeline for taxonomic profiling. Recent work highlights associations between microbiome dynamics and Type 1 diabetes risk. His lab collaborates on projects such as the TEDDY study and has contributed to viral discovery efforts, including identifying thousands of human-associated viruses. Tisza is also involved in public health initiatives, such as TEPHI’s wastewater-based outbreak detection. Education: Ph.D. in Microbiology (inferred from role). Advises students like Camille Mazurek (PhD Candidate, 2025). Active on Bluesky and GitHub, sharing tools and research updates.

Kathryn PatrasView profile

Assistant Professor

• Mucosal Immunity
• Microbiota Research
• Urinary Tract Infections
• +5 more

Kathryn Patras, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology at Baylor College of Medicine, affiliated with the Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research. She earned her PhD from San Diego State University and UC San Diego, with a postdoctoral fellowship at UC San Diego. Her research focuses on mucosal immunity and microbiota interactions in the female urogenital tract, particularly Group B Streptococcus (GBS) and urinary tract infections. Her work integrates basic science and translational approaches to understand pathogen colonization mechanisms and host defense strategies. Education: PhD in Pediatrics (San Diego State University/UC San Diego), BS in Biology (University of Nebraska-Lincoln). Research Interests: Host-microbe interactions, urogenital health, GBS colonization dynamics, UTI pathogenesis, and metabolic influences on infections. Key areas include how host immunity and microbiota composition affect infection susceptibility, particularly during pregnancy and metabolic conditions like gestational diabetes. Key Funding: NIH grants (NIDDK, NIAID, NICHD), Burroughs Wellcome Fund. Topics include microbiome discovery, antibiotic resistance mechanisms, and vaginal microbiota modulation by human milk oligosaccharides. Lab Activities: The Patras Lab explores vaginal microbiota dynamics, host immune responses, and the impact of metabolic factors. Projects include developing targeted preventions for GBS and UTIs while preserving beneficial microbiota. The lab is located at One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX.

Daniel ChaView profile

Professor

• Environmental Engineering
• Bioremediation
• Waste Management
• +3 more

Professor Daniel Cha holds a faculty position in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Delaware. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, followed by a Master's from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor's from McGill University. His academic and industrial career spans over three decades with expertise in environmental biological processes, microbial community dynamics, and sustainable waste management solutions. Dr. Cha has worked as a consulting engineer and held roles at the Sacramento Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant. His research focuses on microbial-driven systems, including energy/fertilizer recovery from food waste, biocomposite material synthesis from wastewater microorganisms, and genomic analysis of mixed culture microbial communities. Key areas also include zerovalent iron-based water treatment technologies, sulfate reduction for acid mine drainage mitigation, and innovative fecal sludge management systems in urban contexts. Notable projects include field demonstrations of breathable membrane toilets in India and pilot-scale bioretention systems integrating biochar. His work bridges environmental chemistry with engineering solutions, addressing contaminants like perchlorate, energetic compounds, and heavy metals in industrial wastewater. Publications span advanced oxidation processes, microbial ecology, and novel membrane technologies. While no formal awards are listed, his extensive patent portfolio includes systems for treating energetic compound wastewaters and biodegradation enhancement methods. His lab collaborates on projects involving both academic and industrial partners, emphasizing scalable environmental engineering solutions.

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Biomineralization
• +6 more

Dr. Liza-Anastasia DiCecco is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Systems Design Engineering at the University of Waterloo, where she leads the Regenerative Biomaterials Innovation Group. Her research focuses on biomimetic implant development for hard tissues, biomineralization processes, and advanced materials characterization using liquid phase electron microscopy. She holds a PhD in Materials Engineering from McMaster University and completed postdoctoral training at Penn State University supported by the NSERC Banting Fellowship. Education: PhD, Materials Engineering, McMaster University (2023) MASc, Materials Engineering, University of Windsor (2019) BASc, Mechanical Engineering, University of Windsor (2017) Research Interests: Biomaterials design for musculoskeletal applications Biomineralization mechanisms at organic-inorganic interfaces In situ liquid transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for dynamic material analysis 3D printing of functionalized medical implants Computational modeling of biomaterial behavior Awards & Recognition: 2023 NSERC Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship 2019-2022 NSERC Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship 2024 M&M Microanalysis Society Creative Canvas Award 2023 McMaster University Fall Valedictorian Professional Affiliations: Councillor-At-Large, Microscopy Society of Canada Core Member, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology Member, Canadian Biomaterials Society Lab Focus: The DiCecco Team develops novel biomaterial characterization workflows linking atomic-to-macro scale structures, with emphasis on hydrated environments. Current projects explore titanium-based implants with genistein coatings and collagen mineralization mechanisms.

• Virology
• Influenza
• Infectious Diseases
• +2 more

Fabien Filaire serves as a Researcher within the Virology department at Erasmus MC, a leading academic medical center in the Netherlands. His professional focus lies in the intricate study of viral pathogens, with particular emphasis on influenza A viruses of the H5N1 subtype and their implications for public and animal health. Dr. Filaire's research portfolio encompasses a diverse range of virological investigations. Key areas of interest include: Avian Influenza (H5N1) pathogenesis and evolution Viral shedding mechanisms and transmission dynamics Zoonotic potential of influenza viruses Inter-species transmission, particularly between birds, mammals, and humans Veterinary aspects of influenza in livestock, including dairy cattle Use of animal models (such as ferrets) for influenza research His recent scholarly contributions demonstrate significant impact in understanding pandemic risks. The 2025 Nature Microbiology publication established a direct correlation between airborne viral shedding and mammalian transmissibility of H5N1, while the 2024 Lab Animal article analyzed the emergence of H5N1 in US dairy cattle and its potential to enhance cross-species transmission. These works collectively address critical gaps in predicting and mitigating influenza outbreaks with pandemic potential. Although the provided documentation does not detail any formal student mentorship activities, grant funding, or laboratory affiliations, Dr. Filaire's collaborative research network appears extensive, as evidenced by multi-institutional authorship on his publications. No scientific awards are mentioned in the current profile.

Neil McRobertsView profile

Professor

• Plant disease epidemiology
• Systems modeling
• Bio-economic analysis
• +4 more

Neil McRoberts is a Professor of Plant Pathology at the University of California, Davis, and Director of the Western Plant Diagnostic Network. His research focuses on plant disease epidemiology, systems modeling, and bio-economic analysis of plant diseases. He investigates strategies for managing invasive pathogens, optimizing disease detection methods, and understanding the socio-economic dimensions of agricultural disease management. McRoberts has contributed extensively to studies on Huanglongbing (citrus greening), grapevine leafroll disease, and spinach downy mildew, emphasizing collective action challenges in plant health provision. His work integrates molecular diagnostics, spore trapping, and behavioral economics to address both technical and institutional barriers in disease management. His research spans multiple scales from molecular diagnostics to global crop health assessments, with a focus on translating scientific insights into actionable policies and practices. McRoberts collaborates with growers, policymakers, and international organizations to develop sustainable solutions for crop disease challenges. Notable contributions include frameworks for optimizing phytosanitary thresholds and evaluating the economic impacts of disease management strategies. His lab (QBELab) emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches combining epidemiology, modeling, and social science perspectives. Key Areas: Disease forecasting, collective action in agriculture, citrus disease management, spore dispersal modeling Affiliations: Western Plant Diagnostic Network, UC Davis Plant Pathology Department Methodologies: Systems modeling, economic analysis, citizen science surveillance McRoberts' recent work highlights the critical role of volunteer networks in early disease detection and the importance of aligning economic incentives with sustainable agricultural practices to combat invasive pathogens effectively.

Laurence MeagherView profile

Professor

• Medical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Antimicrobial Coatings
• +3 more

Laurence Meagher is a Professor at Monash University, affiliated with the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. He is the Director of the ARC Training Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies and the Monash SPARK program, focusing on translating medical research into clinical applications. His research addresses challenges in antimicrobial coatings for medical devices, bioprinting for cardiac applications, and tissue engineering solutions for fibrosis and thrombosis. He leads projects like the 'Monash Centre to Impact AMR' and collaborates on advanced materials for cell therapies. Director, ARC Training Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies Director, Monash SPARK program Chair, Industrial Engagement working group (Monash Centre to Impact AMR) His research interests include surface modification of biomedical materials, controlled radical polymerization for antibacterial coatings, and synthetic cell culture systems. He has pioneered antimicrobial polymers effective against drug-resistant pathogens without fostering resistance. Recent work focuses on bioprinting hydrogel bioinks and nanosensors for real-time monitoring of biological systems. Notable projects include the development of non-thrombogenic stents and bone regeneration scaffolds. His contributions align with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in advancing affordable medical technologies and reducing antimicrobial resistance.