Professor Paolo Fornasiero is a Full Professor of Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Trieste, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, where he has worked since 1998. He serves as Deputy Director of the department since 2021 and Scientific Responsible of the CNR Research Unit associated with the Institute of Chemistry of OrganoMetallic Compounds (ICCOM) since 2008. His career spans EU projects, bilateral collaborations with China, India, and Argentina, and leadership roles in journals like ACS Catalysis (Executive Editor since 2021). Full Professor (2016–present) Associate Professor (2006–2016) Assistant Professor (1998–2006) Post-Doc, University of Reading (1996–1997) His research focuses on multi-functional metal-oxide nanosystems for energy and environmental catalysis, including green hydrogen production , CO2 valorization , and methane emission control . He pioneered core-shell catalysts and single-atom systems for stability and selectivity. His work extends to solid oxide fuel cells and photocatalytic water depollution . Recent publications highlight trends in photothermal catalysis , single-atom catalysts , and CO2 electroreduction . His 280+ papers (3 in Science , 2 in Nature Communications ) reflect expertise across Environmental Catalysis , Nanomaterials , and Green Energy . 2022 Malatesta Medal 2021 European Academy of Sciences member 2017 Edoardo Kramer Award 2016 Heinz Heinemann Award 2013 Chiusoli Gold Medal He oversees PhD/postdoc advising and participates in global capacity-building via UNIDO and World Academy of Sciences . His lab collaborates with institutions like KAUST , Czech Academy of Sciences , and Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics .
Annemie Bogaerts is a Full Professor at the University of Antwerp since 2014 and head of the PLASMANT research group , which she established independently after her supervisor's retirement. The group now has 37 members including 2 professors, 15 postdocs, 18 PhD students, and 2 technical coworkers. Academic Career: Lecturer (2004-2007), Senior Lecturer (2008-2011), Francqui Distinguished Research Professor (2013-2016), Full Professor (2012-now) Current Leadership Roles: Chair of Department of Chemistry, Head of PLASMANT group Research Focus : Computer modeling of plasmas, plasma-surface interactions, plasma catalysis for CO 2 conversion into value-added chemicals. Her work combines experimental and computational approaches to develop sustainable plasma-based chemical processes. Scientific Achievements : Over 400 peer-reviewed publications (H-index 52 in Web of Science, 64 in Google Scholar) 11,000+ citations (16,000+ in Google Scholar) 20+ major scientific awards including: Winter Plasma Award 2009 for laser ablation modeling Lester W. Strock Award 2008 for plasma/surface modeling Academia Europaea member since 2011 Koninklijke Vlaamse Academie member since 2012 Academic Service : Editor of Spectrochimica Acta Part B , guest editor for 10 special issues including 'Plasma & Cancer', Chair of International Symposium on Plasma Chemistry (2015), and active in university governance through multiple commissions.
Prof. Markus Valtiner is a Professor at TU Wien's Department of Applied Interface Physics, focusing on interfacial processes, corrosion science, and electrochemistry. His research combines experimental and theoretical approaches to study solid-liquid interfaces, surface chemistry, and material degradation mechanisms. He leads a team investigating high entropy alloys, passive film structures, and biomimetic membrane systems. Education: Dipl.-Ing. (Diplom-Ingenieur) in Engineering, Dr.techn. (Doctor of Engineering) from TU Wien. Research Interests: Corrosion mechanisms, electrochemical analysis, surface modification, and thin film characterization. His work spans applications in automotive materials, protective coatings, and biomedical systems. Recent Trends: Articles emphasize real-time visualization of ion dynamics, advanced surface analysis via LEIS and AFM, and sustainable material treatments. Studies on hydration layers and superlubrication highlight innovative solutions for friction reduction in confined spaces. Awards: None explicitly mentioned. Advising & Grants: Advised 19 thesis students (2018–2023) on topics like electrochemical functionalization, corrosion protection, and nanophotonic materials. Grant activities focus on interdisciplinary collaborations between physics, chemistry, and engineering. Labs & Teams: Leads the Network Lab at TU Wien, specializing in interfacial physics and advanced materials characterization using cutting-edge microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.
Institute of Science and Technology AustriaAustria
Ilaria Caiazzo is an Assistant Professor of Astrophysics at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria . Her research focuses on stellar evolution, compact objects (white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes), and X-ray polarization studies. She leads observational campaigns using missions like JWST, IXPE, and Gaia, and collaborates on theoretical models for magnetar emission and accreting X-ray pulsars. Her work includes the discovery of an ultramassive white dwarf (ZTF J1901+1458) and breakthroughs in magnetar polarization measurements. She is also a key contributor to the Colibrì X-ray telescope mission proposal as Project Scientist. Research Interests: Stellar Evolution in Star Clusters X-ray Polarization of Compact Objects White Dwarf Formation and Structure Accretion Processes in Neutron Stars QED Effects in Strong Magnetic Fields Her recent work includes the first IXPE observations of magnetars (Science, 2022) and contributions to JWST Cycle 1 observing programs targeting ancient stellar systems like 47 Tucanae. She has also produced influential publications in Nature and Astrophysical Journal , advancing our understanding of stellar remnants and their extreme physical conditions. Awards: While no explicit honors are listed, her high-impact publications and leadership in major missions highlight her scholarly contributions. Grants and Collaborations: Approved HST (Cycle 29) and JWST (Cycle 1) programs, IXPE collaboration member, and Colibrì mission team leader. Her work integrates large surveys (ZTF, Gaia) with cutting-edge instrumentation. Labs/Teams: Active in the Colibrì mission consortium and IXPE science working groups, focusing on X-ray polarimetry and compact object studies.
Christian Grasl is a researcher at the Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna. With a focus on vascular prostheses development, he combines materials science and biomedical engineering to create advanced solutions for cardiovascular applications. Specializes in electrospinning technology for vascular graft fabrication Develops biodegradable thermoplastic polyurethanes with tailored mechanical properties Investigates host responses to synthetic and decellularized graft materials Conducts preclinical evaluation of novel vascular implants His recent work explores biomaterial-specific regulation of vascular healing, including ECM-polyurethane hybrid grafts and NO-releasing drug-eluting systems. Grasl's publications span from 2007 to 2025, demonstrating sustained contributions to vascular tissue engineering. Current research emphasizes: Controllable degradation kinetics Surface microstructuring for optimal cell interaction Mechanical compatibility with native vasculature Anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic material modifications
Edit Irén Buzás is a Professor of Immunology and Chair of the Department of Genetics, Cell- and Immunobiology at Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary. She is a leading researcher in extracellular vesicles (EVs), with significant contributions to standardizing EV detection and isolation methodologies. PI of the EV Research Group at Semmelweis University Leader of the MTA-SE Immune Proteogenomics EV Research Group PI of the HCEMM-SE EV group at the Hungarian Center of Excellence Molecular Medicine (EMBL partner) Founding member and Executive Chair of Education at the International Society of Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV) Her research focuses on the cardiovascular aspects of EVs, including the interference of lipoproteins in EV experiments and the development of tools for EV standardization. She has published over 50 peer-reviewed papers and pioneered techniques like differential detergent lysis and protein-to-lipid ratio analysis. Scientific awards include the 2019 Széchenyi Prize (Hungarian Government), 1995 Carol-Nachman Prize for Rheumatology, and multiple fellowships. She has organized major ISEV conferences and serves on the ERC panel. Currently, she is establishing a Central EV Research, Service, and Reference Laboratory at Semmelweis University.
Edit Irén Buzás is a Professor of Immunology and Chair of the Department of Genetics, Cell- and Immunobiology at Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary. Her work focuses on extracellular vesicles (EVs), autoimmunity, and rheumatology. MD from University of Szeged (1983) PhD (1996) Her research explores EV biophysical properties, RNA patterns in EV subpopulations, and the interference of lipoproteins in EV detection. She pioneered methods like differential detergent lysis and protein-to-lipid ratios for EV standardization. Current projects involve cardiovascular aspects of EVs and establishing a Central EV Research Laboratory at Semmelweis University. She has over 50 peer-reviewed publications and leads initiatives like the MTA-SE Immune Proteogenomics EV Research Group. Her work influences international EV guidelines and training networks such as EU TRAIN-EV. 2019 Corresponding Membership of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences 2019 Széchenyi Prize 1995 Carol Nachman Price for Rheumatology Buzás is a founding member and Executive Chair of Education at the International Society of Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV), organizing key conferences and shaping global EV research standards. She serves on ERC panels and collaborates with institutions like EMBL.
Sara Bals is a Full Professor in the Department of Physics at the Faculty of Science, University of Antwerp, Belgium. She has held this position since 2018, following her progression from Assistant Professor (2007-2012), Associate Professor (2012-2014), to Professor (2014-2018). She serves as the head of EMAT (Electron Microscopy for Materials Science), which comprises 7 principal investigators, about 25 postdoctoral researchers, and more than 30 PhD students. Additionally, she coordinates the "Nanolab" Centre of Excellence, composed of 6 research groups. Dr. Bals earned her Bachelor's degree in Physics from the University of Antwerp (1995-1997) with Great Distinction, followed by a Master's degree (1997-1999) with Greatest Distinction. She completed her PhD in Physics at the same institution (1999-2003) with Greatest Distinction and special honors, focusing on superconducting thin films and tapes under Professor Gustaaf Van Tendeloo. From 2003-2004, she conducted postdoctoral research at the National Center for Electron Microscopy in Berkeley, USA, working with Professor Christian Kisielowski on electron tomography for materials science. Sara Bals is an internationally recognized expert in electron tomography and advanced electron microscopy techniques for nanomaterials characterization. Her research focuses on developing and applying electron tomography to study functional nanomaterials at the atomic scale. By combining state-of-the-art electron microscopy with advanced 3D reconstruction algorithms, her group measures the positions and chemical nature of individual atoms in nanomaterials. A significant advancement in her work involves performing these measurements under realistic conditions, including heating, liquid, or gas flow experiments to investigate nanomaterials under working conditions. Her research spans multiple areas including chiral nanomaterials, in situ 3D characterization of nano materials, atomic resolution electron tomography, quantitative electron tomography, and the study of nanoparticles and ultra-small clusters using aberration-corrected (S)TEM. Her publication record demonstrates a strong focus on advancing electron microscopy techniques and applying them to cutting-edge nanomaterials research. The most recent publications show increasing emphasis on chiral nanostructures, perovskite materials, in-situ characterization techniques, and advanced computational methods for image reconstruction. Her work bridges fundamental materials science with practical applications in energy conversion, catalysis, and optoelectronics. Dr. Bals has received numerous prestigious awards and honors for her contributions to science: 2021: ACS Nano Lectureship Award 2020: Elected member of the Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium for Science and the Arts (Natural Sciences) 2020: European Microscopy Society Award 2018-2024: ERC Consolidator Grant (PE5 - Synthetic Chemistry and Materials) 2017-2020: Francqui Research Professor 2016: Laureate of the Academy for Natural Sciences awarded by the Royal Flemish Academy 2015: Finalist of the Science Talent of 2015 competition 2013-2018: ERC Starting Grant (PE4 - Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences) As principal investigator, Dr. Bals has secured significant research funding, including two European Research Council grants (Starting and Consolidator). She serves as promotor for numerous European and national projects. Her mentorship has guided the research of many PhD students and postdoctoral researchers within EMAT. Her group's expertise in nanoscale characterization is essential for investigating beam-sensitive materials like perovskites under working conditions. Dr. Bals leads the EMAT research group, a world-renowned center for electron microscopy of materials. The group specializes in advanced electron microscopy techniques, particularly electron tomography for 3D characterization of nanomaterials. As coordinator of the "Nanolab" Centre of Excellence, she oversees a collaborative effort involving 6 research groups focused on nanoscience and nanotechnology research.
University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences ViennaAustria
Markus Mozgovicz, B.Sc., is a researcher at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), affiliated with the Institute of Bioprocess Science and Engineering under the Department of Biotechnology and Food Science. His research focuses on bioprocess engineering and protein purification techniques, particularly in the development and optimization of chromatographic and precipitation-based methods for immunoglobulin isolation from human plasma. Key projects include affinity chromatography for immunoglobulin quantification, application of L-Arginine sulfate to reduce protein binding, and continuous cold ethanol precipitation processes. The three publications listed in 2023–2024 highlight his work in bioseparation technologies, emphasizing improvements in affinity chromatography and plasma processing. While no specific scientific awards are documented, his contributions align with BOKU's mission in bioprocess innovation.
University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences ViennaAustria
Elisabeth Fischer is a researcher at the Institute of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Natural Sciences and Sustainable Resources, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). She holds a doctorate and is actively engaged in research projects related to trace and ultra-trace elemental analysis in environmental and biological matrices. Her work involves advanced analytical techniques such as ICP-MS and LC-ICP-MS, with applications in water quality, food safety, and biomedical research. Her research interests include analytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, elemental speciation, metal homeostasis, and the development of novel methodologies for ultra-trace analysis. She has contributed significantly to the understanding of technology-critical elements in natural waters and metal imbalances in allergic conditions. The recent publications reflect a strong focus on methodological advancements in ICP-MS-based analysis, particularly for high mineralized waters and seawater. Her work spans environmental forensics (e.g., tracing glass eels), biomedical applications (e.g., iron deficiency in allergies), and the detection of precious and hazardous elements in complex matrices. The keywords across her work highlight interdisciplinary research at the intersection of analytical chemistry, environmental science, and health. Scientific Awards: No specific awards mentioned in the provided text. Elisabeth Fischer has supervised at least one master’s thesis and collaborates on various research projects, often funded by federal ministries, the Austrian Science Fund (FWF), and industry partners. She is involved in both project leadership and technical roles, demonstrating a strong presence in applied and fundamental research. She has presented her findings at numerous international conferences, including the Winter Conference on Plasma Spectrochemistry and MassSpec-Forum Vienna. She is associated with research on biodegradable implants, water framework directive compliance, and the development of sample preparation techniques for food and environmental samples. Her work contributes to sustainable resource management and public health through precise analytical methodologies.
Paul Scheier is a Professor at the Department of Ion Physics and Applied Physics, Faculty for Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics, University Innsbruck, Austria. He has held leadership roles including Head of the Institute for Ion Physics and Applied Physics (2008–2012) and Chair of the research center "Ion and Plasma Physics / Applied Physics" since 2005. PhD in Natural Science (University Innsbruck, 1988) Master in Natural Science (University Innsbruck, 1986) His research spans atomic and molecular physics, focusing on helium nanodroplets, fullerene interactions, cold physics, and ionization processes. Collaborative work with institutions like the University of Giessen and University of Hawaii has yielded insights into cluster dynamics and quantum phenomena. Recent publications (2010–2018) highlight trends in cold physics, ionization, and computational modeling of nanoscale interactions. Key subfields include fullerene spectroscopy, hydrogen storage, and superfluidity. SASP Award for Outstanding Scientific Achievements (2016) Award for Scientific Achievements of Innsbruck (2008) Award for Scientific Excellence of Liechtenstein (2003) APART scholarship (1997–2000) Fritz-Kohlrausch Preis (1990) Fulbright scholarship (1987)
Fantz Ursel is a Professor and academic leader in plasma physics, holding dual roles as Division Head of ITER Technology & Diagnostics at the Max-Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (IPP) and Head of the Experimental Plasma Physics Group at the University of Augsburg's Institute for Physics. His research focuses on fusion energy, plasma technology, and advanced diagnostics for negative ion sources critical to ITER and DEMO projects. He has pioneered developments in radio-frequency-driven plasma sources and Cs-free alternatives for negative ion production. Education and career milestones include a PhD in low-temperature plasma physics from the University of Stuttgart (1996), followed by research roles at Stuttgart and IPP. He has held visiting professorships at NIFS, Japan (2006), and serves on international committees such as the DFG Grants Committee and EUROfusion’s Heating and Current Drive Project Board. His research interests span plasma diagnostics, beam extraction optimization, and plasma modeling, with notable contributions to plasma surface interactions and fusion technology. Awards include the Erwin Schrödinger Prize (2006) and the International Symposium Award (2014) for innovations in negative ion physics. He is an active contributor to fusion initiatives through roles in the German Physical Society (DPG) and the European Physics Society (EPS). Ursel’s work integrates experimental and computational approaches, including 3D PIC simulations and code benchmarking (e.g., NINJA, ONIX). His publications address challenges in plasma expansion dynamics, beam characterization, and ITER-compatible technologies.
Kostya (Ken) Ostrikov is a Professor at Queensland University of Technology (Australia), leading the Plasma Nanoscience Center Australia (PNCA) as a CSIRO CEO Science Leader and ARC Future Fellow. He holds over 12 adjunct/visiting professorships globally, including positions at Peking University, Zhejiang University, and the University of Sydney. His research focuses on plasma nanoscience, low-temperature plasmas, nanotechnology, and their applications in energy, environment, and healthcare. Notable roles include: Founder and leader of PNCA Convenor of the iPlasmaNano International Conference Series Recipient of the Inaugural Building Future Award (2012) for sustainable innovations Research interests span plasma synthesis of nanomaterials, energy-efficient technologies, and biomedical applications. He has secured over $15M in grants, supervised ~157 researchers/students, and authored 470+ papers (H-index 55). Key achievements include pioneering plasma nanoscience as a field and developing deterministic nanofabrication methods. Awards highlight global recognition: 3 most prestigious physics medals (Australia/Ukraine), 7 fellowships, and top-tier professorial appointments. His work bridges fundamental plasma physics with industrial applications in renewable energy, healthcare, and advanced materials.
Filip Vukovic is a Researcher at TU Wien's Atomic and Plasma Physics Research Section (E134-03). Holding a Dr.phil. (PhD) degree, he is affiliated with the FWF-funded project. His work focuses on fundamental interactions of slow highly charged ions with surfaces and 2D materials, with recent contributions in electron emission spectroscopy and nanoscale material analysis. Research Interests: Atomic-scale surface interactions Plasma-based material characterization Electronic properties of 2D materials under ion irradiation Recent work highlights novel insights into electron emission dynamics and ion-induced modifications in nanostructured surfaces. Publications (2024) emphasize experimental methodologies for analyzing surface-sensitivity and material responses at atomic scales. Part of TU Wien's Network Lab, his research contributes to advancing ion-beam analysis techniques and their applications in nanotechnology.
Ulrich Brossmann is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Materials Physics, Graz University of Technology. His research focuses on nanomaterials synthesis and characterization, with expertise in magnetic nanoparticles, diffusion phenomena in nanocrystalline oxides, and gas sensor development. His primary research areas include: Materials Physics : Fundamental properties of nanocrystalline systems and interfaces Nanoparticles : Microwave plasma synthesis of uniform oxide nanoparticles and composites Magnetism : Surface spin effects in coated ferrites (MnFe2O4, γ-Fe2O3) and spin frustration Diffusion Studies : Oxygen and zirconium diffusion in nanocrystalline zirconia Gas Sensing : Development of nano-particulate tungsten oxide-based sensors Optical Properties : Luminescence in rare-earth doped oxides (Y2O3:Eu) Analysis of his 2009-2019 publications reveals consistent innovation in nanomaterial fabrication techniques, particularly microwave plasma synthesis. His work bridges fundamental diffusion/magnetism studies with practical applications, showing strong emphasis on surface engineering of nanoparticles to control magnetic properties and sensor performance. Key trends include systematic investigation of coating effects on magnetic nanoparticles and grain boundary diffusion in nanocrystalline ceramics.
