Find Academic Supervisors

Kaidi WangView profile

Assistant Professor

• Food Microbiology
• Food Safety
• Microbial Ecology
• +4 more

Kaidi Wang is an Assistant Professor and Agriculture and Agri-Food Innovation Chair in Applied Microbiology at the University of Saskatchewan's College of Agriculture and Bioresources, Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences. Her research program focuses on food microbiology to improve safety, quality and sustainability of agri-food products, with emphasis on microbial ecology of foodborne pathogens like Salmonella. Education includes a PhD in Food Science from McGill University, Master of Science in Food Science from University of British Columbia, and Bachelor of Engineering in Food Science and Engineering from Zhejiang University, China. Research integrates advanced detection techniques including optical tweezers, microfluidics, vibrational spectroscopy, machine learning, transcriptomics and metabolomics. Key investigations examine pathogen survival mechanisms in agroecosystems, particularly biofilm formation and viable but non-culturable (VBNC) states. Additional research applies molecular tools, sensor-enabled data and artificial intelligence to study microbial behavior in food fermentation. Publications demonstrate focus on innovative detection methods, including Raman spectroscopy combined with neural networks for pathogen identification and novel approaches for VBNC state detection in foodborne pathogens. Research contributes to developing safer food processing methods and sustainable supply chain management. Laboratory focuses on molecular detection techniques and advanced spectroscopic methods for microbial characterization in food systems.

Juan AncisoView profile

Professor

• Food Safety
• Vegetable Crops
• Agriculture
• +5 more

Professor Juan Anciso is a faculty member at Texas A&M University, serving as a Professor & Extension Specialist and Associate Department Head within the Department of Food Science and Technology at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Weslaco. He holds a B.S. in Biology and advanced degrees (Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, M.Agr. in Plant Protection) from Texas A&M University. His research focuses on food safety in produce, vegetable crop management, and sustainable agricultural practices. Key areas include pest control strategies, irrigation efficiency, and pathogen mitigation in agricultural water. He also engages in extension education programs, such as grower training initiatives to improve food safety compliance with FDA standards. Recent work emphasizes UV processing for pathogen inactivation, evaluation of training programs' effectiveness, and optimizing crop yields through plastic mulch and planting date adjustments. Anciso collaborates on projects addressing South Texas-specific challenges in crop diseases, water use efficiency, and high-throughput phenotyping for yield estimation. His contributions bridge academic research with practical agricultural solutions, particularly in vegetable production systems and food safety assurance for fresh produce.

Anil SomenahallyView profile

Associate Professor

• Rhizosphere Biogeochemistry
• Soil Microbial Communities
• Soil Health Modeling
• +7 more

Anil Somenahally is an Associate Professor in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences at Texas A&M University, affiliated with the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences and Texas A&M AgriLife Research. He holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from Texas A&M University (2010). His research focuses on rhizosphere biogeochemistry, plant-beneficial microbes, and soil health modeling, with a particular emphasis on biofertilization, disease suppression, and bioremediation applications. He develops novel soil sensing tools and models to improve soil health management and mitigate plant/human pathogen risks in agricultural systems. Key research areas include microbial community dynamics, soil organic carbon sequestration, greenhouse gas emissions, and the use of cover crops and biochar. His work integrates biogeochemical analysis, genomic tools, and remote sensing to address challenges in sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. Dr. Somenahally collaborates with teams at Texas A&M AgriLife to advance soil health practices, regenerative agriculture, and precision farming technologies. His recent studies explore soil carbon dynamics in grazing lands, impacts of nitrogen management on methane emissions, and phytotoxicity mitigation through compost applications. He advises students including Prajina Neupane, Javid McLawrence, Javad Robatjazi, and Tushar Sarker. His research has been supported by grants addressing soil health, agroecosystems, and environmental sustainability. No scientific awards are explicitly listed, but his contributions include over 70 peer-reviewed publications on soil microbiology, carbon sequestration, and agricultural biotechnology. Collaborative projects span international partnerships, such as work in the Colombian Amazon and Rwanda, focusing on soil management and food security.

Michelle A LallyView profile

Associate Professor

• HIV/AIDS
• Adolescent Health
• Preventive Medicine
• +8 more

Michelle A Lally is an Associate Professor of Medicine and Associate Professor of Health Services, Policy and Practice at Brown University. She is also the Director of the Brown University AIDS Program (BRUNAP) and the Associate Chief of the Medical Specialty Service at the Providence Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Her clinical expertise focuses on HIV care and immunizations, with a research emphasis on HIV prevention among youth, biomedical prevention strategies like PrEP, and HIV testing innovations. She leads key initiatives such as the Community Prevention Leadership Group within the NIH-supported Adolescent Medicine Trials Network (ATN) and co-chairs the Prevention Science Core of the Lifespan/Tufts/Brown Center for AIDS Research (CFAR). Dr. Lally earned her MD from the University of Virginia and an MSc in Epidemiology from Harvard University. Her career spans academic teaching, clinical practice, and leadership in HIV-related research. She has held significant roles in clinical trials networks, including the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) and the IMPAACT Group. Her honors include multiple Dean's Teaching Excellence Awards from Brown University for her contributions to medical education. Her research spans HIV prevention trials, vaccine development, and policy-driven interventions to reduce health disparities. Notable collaborations include work with institutions like The Miriam Hospital and Rhode Island Hospital. Dr. Lally’s work integrates clinical care, education, and research to address HIV/AIDS across diverse populations, particularly focusing on adolescents and marginalized communities.

Frank KjeldsenView profile

Professor

• Proteomics
• Mass Spectrometry
• Nanoparticle-Biological Interactions
• +7 more

Frank Kjeldsen is a Professor and group leader in the Protein Research group at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , University of Southern Denmark . His research focuses on proteomics, mass spectrometry, and the biological effects of nanoparticles, with a strong emphasis on method development in negative ion mode and ultrafast proteomic platforms. His research interests span: Proteomics and systems biology Nanoparticle-biological system interactions Development of novel mass spectrometry and chemical biology methods Fundamental gas-phase peptide chemistry Metabolomics and multi-omics integration Recent publications (2023–2025) highlight trends in ultrafast proteomics , multi-omics for environmental and biomedical applications, nanoplastic toxicity , and neuroprotection . His work frequently involves advanced LC-MS/MS techniques, ion mobility, and software development for data analysis. Scientific recognition includes: 2 prizes (as noted in his CV profile) He actively supervises research and collaborates on multiple interdisciplinary projects. His lab, the Frank Kjeldsen Lab , is part of the Biomedical Mass Spectrometry research section. He has contributed to numerous grants and collaborative research efforts in toxicology, cancer, and environmental science.

• Forest Health Management
• Forest Entomology
• Forest Pathology
• +3 more

Tara L. Bal is an Assistant Professor in the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science at Michigan Technological University, serving as Director of the Master of Forestry Degree Program and Leader of the Wood Protection Group and Microbiology/Pathology Lab. She holds a PhD, MS, and BS in Forest Science-related fields from Michigan Tech and Purdue University. University: Michigan Technological University College: College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science Her research focuses on forest health, addressing biotic/abiotic factors like forest entomology, pathology, invasive species, climate, and anthropogenic impacts. She emphasizes translating science into practical solutions for forest management and product sustainability. Teaching interests include Forest Health, Entomology, Pathology, and professional skills development. Her expertise spans forest health monitoring, forestry education diversity, and wood decay testing. Her recent publications (2023-2024) highlight themes like biocontrol for invasive species, educational equity in forestry, and molecular tools for disease detection. Key projects include mitigating beech bark disease and studying oak wilt via eDNA. She co-directs Women in the Academy (WIA) to advance diversity in forestry. Advising focuses on Master of Forestry students, fostering professional competencies and networking. Labs/teams: Wood Protection Group, Microbiology/Pathology Lab. Active in promoting inclusive practices and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Barth F. SmetsView profile

Professor

• Environmental Engineering
• Bioprocess Engineering
• Microbial Ecology
• +5 more

Barth F. Smets is a Professor in the Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering at Aarhus University, specializing in the intersection of Environmental Engineering and Life Sciences. His work focuses on bioprocess development for water and environmental applications, with a particular emphasis on microbial ecology and antimicrobial resistance management. He has led multidisciplinary research groups across Europe, the USA, and Asia, coordinating large-scale projects in sustainable biotechnology and environmental engineering. Education: Trained at the interface of Engineering (Environmental & Biochemical) and Life Sciences (Microbiology & Agronomic Sciences). Experience: Over 20 years of managing multi-institutional R&D projects and leading international research teams. Skills: Expertise in project management, innovation facilitation, and translational research. His research interests center on solving environmental challenges through mission-oriented R&D, including wastewater treatment optimization, microbial biotechnology for sustainability, and understanding resistance gene transfer dynamics in engineered systems. He actively promotes collaborative, purpose-driven research environments. Key research trends in his publications include antimicrobial resistance in wastewater systems, nitrogen cycle dynamics in engineered environments, and novel methods for quantifying gene transfer mechanisms. He emphasizes practical applications of fundamental science to achieve planetary and human benefits. Awards: No explicit awards listed, but his work has been recognized through peer-reviewed publications in top journals like Environmental Science & Technology and ACS ES&T Engineering . He advises on staff development and project management strategies, fostering professional growth aligned with organizational goals. His current focus includes advancing sustainable bioprocess technologies and improving emission monitoring in wastewater treatment plants. He is affiliated with AU Engineering at Aarhus University and has contributed to initiatives at the intersection of environmental engineering and microbial systems biology.

• Immunobiology of Herpesviruses
• Virology
• Infection and Immunity
• +4 more

Professor Allison Abendroth is a faculty member at the University of Sydney, affiliated with the Central Clinical School and the Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology. She holds the academic rank of Professor and leads the VZV Research Laboratory, the only lab in Australia dedicated to studying Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) immunobiology and pathogenesis. Her research focuses on herpesvirus immune evasion mechanisms, particularly VZV and cytomegalovirus (CMV), with a focus on antigen presentation, neuronal infection, and host-pathogen interactions. Abendroth completed her B.Sc (Hons) and PhD at the University of Adelaide/IMVS as a Dawes Scholar, followed by postdoctoral work at Stanford University under Prof. Ann Arvin. She has held roles as Sesqui Lecturer in Immunology and Honours Coordinator, while teaching senior immunology courses. Her work spans viral modulation of MHC molecules, cytokine regulation, and immune cell dysfunction. Key research interests include VZV’s impact on MR1 antigen presentation, MAIT cell suppression, and mechanisms of herpesvirus-induced apoptosis inhibition. She has contributed to studies on CMV latency in stem cell transplant recipients and the role of cytokines in viral reactivation. Her team uses models of neuronal infection and human ganglia studies to understand VZV neuropathogenesis. Abendroth has secured grants from NHMRC and other bodies for projects on viral immune evasion, latency, and host responses. The VZV Research Lab develops models for studying herpesvirus infection in neurons and immune cells, aiming to identify therapeutic targets for VZV-related diseases like herpes zoster and post-herpetic neuralgia.

• Water Resources Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Biogeochemistry
• +5 more

Lazaro J. Perez is an Assistant Professor in the School of Civil and Construction Engineering at Oregon State University, part of the College of Engineering. His research focuses on hydrological and biogeochemical processes in subsurface porous media, particularly quantifying incomplete mixing effects on chemical reactions and contaminant transport. He integrates experimental and numerical methods to address groundwater remediation, aquifer management, and bioremediation challenges. Education: Ph.D., Civil and Environmental Engineering, Polytechnic University of Catalonia (2019) M.S., Engineering Geology and Geologic Resources, University of Oviedo (2015) B.S., Geology, University of Oviedo (2013) Research interests include bacterial transport dynamics, biofilm impacts on fluid flow, and multiscale modeling of reactive transport. His work spans pore-to-field scales, emphasizing practical applications like arsenic removal using metal-organic frameworks and climate change effects on water systems. Key contributions include advancements in solute transport prediction via machine learning, upscaling bacterial migration in porous media, and understanding biofilm-induced flow heterogeneities. Current projects involve climate change impacts on mountain hydrology and innovative remediation strategies for contaminated waters.

Yangchao LuoView profile

Associate Professor

• Nanotechnology
• Food Science
• Nutritional Sciences
• +3 more

Dr. Yangchao Luo is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Connecticut since August 2021. He previously served as an Assistant Professor (2014–2021) and held postdoctoral roles at the University of Tennessee and University of Maryland. He earned his Ph.D. in Nutrition and Food Science from the University of Maryland (2012), M.S. from China Agricultural University (2009), and B.S. from Hunan Agricultural University (2006). His research focuses on developing nanoscale delivery systems for nutrients using food-derived biomaterials, including nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, and hydrogels. Key areas include gastrointestinal stability of nanoparticles, bioavailability enhancement, and natural nanomaterial extraction. He has published extensively in journals like Nanoscale , Food Hydrocolloids , and International Journal of Biological Macromolecules . Dr. Luo holds editorial roles at Journal of Agriculture and Food Research (Editor-in-Chief) and International Journal of Biological Macromolecules , among others. He has received awards including the Goldhaber Travel Grant (2010) and Summer Research Fellowship (2011). His teaching portfolio includes courses like Food Colloids and Nanotechnology. Current and past students include Jingyi Xue, Qiaobin Hu, and Taoran Wang.

David LeeView profile

Associate Professor

• Plant Genetics
• Forest Research
• Tree Improvement
• +4 more

Associate Professor David Lee is an academic at the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC), specializing in plant genetics and forest research. He leads genetic improvement programs for tree species like Acacia, Corymbia, Eucalyptus, and Santalum, focusing on disease resistance, biomass assessment, and carbon sequestration. His work has influenced hardwood plantation development in Australia, South Africa, and Brazil. He holds a PhD in Plant Genetics from James Cook University and a BAgricSc(Hons) from the University of Melbourne. Lee’s research integrates molecular technologies (e.g., resistograph, NIR spectroscopy) to enhance tree breeding efficiency. He manages over $9 million in grants from bodies like ACIAR, FWPA, and MLA. His projects include Myrtle rust resistance screening, sandalwood domestication for Indigenous communities, and carbon sequestration modeling in tropical forests. He has supervised 10+ PhD students, contributing to studies on Corymbia hybrids, pest-pathogen interactions, and forest biomass estimation. Current projects emphasize ginger disease resistance and bioenergy potential from sandalwood residues. Lee collaborates with institutions like DAF, CSIRO, and international partners, advancing sustainable forestry practices globally. His expertise spans forest genetics, agroforestry, and environmental adaptation, with over 30 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters. He is affiliated with UniSC’s Forest Industries Research Centre and Tropical Forests and People Research Centre, driving interdisciplinary research to address climate change and biodiversity challenges.

Egon Bech HansenView profile

Professor

• Food Science
• Gut Microbiome
• Lactic Acid Bacteria
• +12 more

Egon Bech Hansen is a Professor at the National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark (DTU), where he leads research in gut microbiology, fermented foods, and sustainable food systems. He is a member of the DTU Microbes Initiative and heads the Research Group for Gut, Microbes and Health. He holds a PhD and MSc from DTU and has previously served as Head of Department at both DTU and Aalborg University, as well as holding senior R&D and innovation roles in industry. His research focuses on food science , particularly the role of lactic acid bacteria in fermentation, plant-based dairy alternatives , gut microbiome interactions , and food safety . His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and sustainable agriculture. He investigates microbial metabolism, proteolysis, antioxidant peptides, and the development of safer, more sustainable food products such as fermented fish, camel milk, and plant-dairy hybrid cheeses. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in functional food development , particularly using microbial fermentation to improve nutritional quality and sensory properties of plant-based products. There is also a focus on molecular detection methods (e.g., FRET assays), antimicrobial resistance monitoring , and industrial scalability of fermentation processes. His work bridges fundamental microbiology with applied food technology. He has received no explicitly listed scientific awards in the provided text. Egon Bech Hansen actively supervises PhD students and leads multiple research projects, including Protein rich food products from locally grown legumes , Harnessing AI to Identify Superior Strains , and SusCheese . He collaborates across disciplines with experts in food chemistry, microbiology, and nutrition. His projects often involve public-private partnerships and address real-world challenges in food sustainability and safety. He is involved in the DTU Microbes Initiative and contributes to research networks focused on gut health, microbial fermentation, and food innovation. His datasets and publications are openly accessible, supporting collaborative science.

Dionne Hoskins-BrownView profile

Associate Professor

• Marine Ecology
• Benthic Ecology
• Fisheries Management
• +3 more

Affiliations: Program Director (Savannah State University), Associate Graduate Professor in Marine Science, Fishery Biologist (NOAA Fisheries), and member of the Gullah-Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor Commission (Chair, 2017–present). Serves on the SCCPSS Board District 2 since 2011. Education: Ph.D. in Marine Sciences, University of South Carolina (1999) B.S. in Marine Biology, Savannah State College (1992) Research Focus: Benthic ecology, particularly deposit-feeding organisms in marine sediments. Current projects include blue crab population dynamics, transplanted marsh recovery, and socio-economic impacts of coastal fisheries. Her lab hosts high school students documenting African-American contributions to Georgia's coastal economy. Publications Trends: Combines ecological fieldwork with historical-cultural analysis, emphasizing coastal resource management and workforce diversity in fisheries science. Awards: Emmeline Moore Prize (American Fisheries Society, 2016) Grants/Initiatives: Founded the first Cooperative Marine Education and Research (CMER) program at an HBCU in 2000. Active in NOAA's educational partnerships, mentoring graduate students in benthic ecology and environmetrics. Labs/Teams: Hosts intergenerational research teams including undergraduates and high school students, focusing on both ecological and socio-cultural aspects of coastal marine systems.

Giacomo Maria PaganottiView profile

Adjunct Assistant Professor

• Malaria
• HIV/AIDS
• Pharmacogenetics
• +7 more

Giacomo Maria Paganotti is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. He is based in Botswana, where he leads the Botswana-UPenn Partnership molecular laboratory, collaborating with the University of Botswana and multiple international institutions including Duke, McMaster, Penn, and the University of Rome La Sapienza. Research Interests: Dr. Paganotti's work spans malaria , HIV/AIDS , HPV , breast and cervical cancer , and pharmacogenetics . Initially trained as a malariologist, he has expanded his focus to investigate how human genetic variation influences drug response and disease progression in infectious and oncological contexts. His research emphasizes host-pathogen interactions, molecular epidemiology, and genetic determinants of treatment outcomes. Publication Trends: His recent publications (2018–2021) reflect a strong focus on molecular and genetic aspects of disease in African populations, particularly in Botswana. Key themes include the spread of Plasmodium vivax in Duffy-negative individuals, CYP2B6 variants affecting antiretroviral therapy, epigenetic changes in cervical cancer with HIV co-infection, and vector genetics in malaria control. These works highlight interdisciplinary approaches combining genomics, epidemiology, and clinical medicine. Scientific Recognition: No specific awards or fellowships are mentioned in the text. Advising and Grants: While no formal students are listed, Dr. Paganotti mentors students and researchers through the Botswana-UPenn Partnership, involving students from the University of Botswana and international trainees. His sustained research output and leadership suggest active grant funding, though specific grants are not detailed. Labs and Collaborations: He leads the molecular laboratory at the Botswana-UPenn Partnership, a hub for collaborative research involving multiple African and global institutions. His work integrates teams across disciplines including infectious diseases, oncology, and genetics.

• Plant Sciences
• Seed Quality
• Food Security
• +7 more

Dr. Sofia Kourmpetli is a Senior Lecturer in Plant Sciences at Cranfield University, affiliated with the Centre for Soil, Agrifood and Biosciences. She holds a BSc in Agriculture from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, and completed her MSc and PhD in Plant Sciences at the University of Nottingham and Rothamsted Research, UK. Since joining Cranfield in 2016, she has advanced to Senior Lecturer and leads research in seed quality, food loss reduction, and urban agriculture. Her research expertise spans: Enhancing seed quality and technology Reducing food loss and waste across supply chains Advancing urban agriculture for sustainable food systems Dr. Kourmpetli’s recent publications focus on urban agriculture, postharvest quality, food security, and seed physiology. Her work demonstrates a strong trend toward interdisciplinary solutions that integrate plant science with environmental and social challenges, particularly in the context of climate resilience and pandemic-related food system disruptions. She frequently collaborates with institutions such as Lancaster University, University of Liverpool, and industry partners including Elsoms Seeds Ltd. and Syngenta Ltd. She has contributed to significant research projects funded by: InnovateUK and Defra BBSRC (via FoodBiosystems DTP) Syngenta Ltd. The Global Food Security Programme (BBSRC, ESRC, NERC, Scottish Government) Dr. Kourmpetli has supervised PhD students and research projects, particularly through CASE studentships. She served as Network Liaison Manager for the BBSRC-funded Horticultural Quality and Food Loss Network (2020–2024), fostering academic-industry partnerships. She is actively recruiting externally or self-funded PhD candidates in plant science-related fields. Her work is associated with key research themes and labs: Plant Science Laboratory at Cranfield University Rurban Revolution project (Lancaster University-led) Seed microbiome engineering for sustainable agriculture FunShield4Med: Fungal spoilage and mycotoxin foresight in the Mediterranean