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Zhen-Gang Wang is the Dick and Barbara Dickinson Professor of Chemical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology, serving as Executive Officer for Chemical Engineering since 2019. He received his B.Sc. from Beijing University (1982) and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago (1987), followed by faculty positions at Caltech rising from Assistant (1991-97) to Associate (1997-2002) and finally Professor (2002-present). Executive Officer, Chemical Engineering (2019-present) Caltech faculty since 1991 Research spans polymer physics, biophysics, and electrostatic correlations His research focuses on statistical mechanics of complex fluids, phase transitions, and biophysical systems. Key areas include: Polymer gel dynamics Electrostatic effects in charged soft matter Nucleation phenomena CO2 separation membranes Evolutionary protein design Recent publications emphasize computational methods (e.g., MDCraft software), electrostatic correlations in polyelectrolytes, and machine learning-driven polymer design for gas separation. Awards include the 2024 Polymer Physics Prize and AIChE Alpha Chi Sigma Award (2023), with election to the National Academy of Engineering (2025). Over 20 PhD students mentored Developed courses in polymer physics and statistical thermodynamics Led studies on ion transport and biomolecular condensates The group operates from the Spalding Laboratory of Engineering, advancing both fundamental theory and applied materials science.

• Statistical Mechanics
• Polymer Science
• Biophysics
• +7 more

Dr. Jasna Jankovic is an Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Connecticut (UConn), part of the College of Engineering. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia (2011). Her research focuses on advanced imaging techniques, fuel cell and battery materials, and bioinspired nanomaterials for clean energy. She leads the JJ Group, collaborating with institutions like MIT and industry partners such as Plug Power and Mott Corporation. Dr. Jankovic is a recipient of the 2024 Distinguished Engineering Educator Award and the NSF CAREER Award for work on degradation mechanisms in electrochemical systems. Her lab develops correlative microscopy approaches for 3D material analysis, linking microstructure to performance in fuel cells and electrolyzers. Recent work includes AI-driven analysis of catalyst layers and ionomer distribution, with applications in improving energy system durability. Her educational contributions include pioneering inclusive STEAM initiatives and mentoring students in sustainable energy and AI. She has secured significant grants, including DOE-funded projects, and her lab’s innovations have been featured at national conferences. Dr. Jankovic’s research bridges fundamental material science with applied energy solutions, emphasizing structure-property-performance correlations through advanced characterization and modeling.

• Advanced Imaging and Spectroscopy Techniques
• Fuel Cells and Batteries
• Nanomaterials for Clean Energy
• +3 more

Dr. Mingyu Qiao is an Assistant Professor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Connecticut's College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources (CAHNR). He is also the founder, Chief Technology Officer, and Chief Science Officer of Halomine Inc. (2018–2022), a startup focused on antimicrobial technologies. Previously, he was a Postdoc Research Associate at Cornell University (2017–2020) and holds a Ph.D. in Food Science from Auburn University (2017). His research focuses on developing sustainable, nature-derived materials for encapsulation and controlled delivery of bioactives in food, animal, and human systems, with applications in animal feed, edible packaging, and dietary supplements. Key areas include scalable low-impact bioprocessing, microencapsulation techniques, and biomanufacturing of nutritional ingredients. Education: Ph.D., Food Science, Auburn University (2017) M.S., Food Science, Auburn University (2015) B.E., Food Safety and Quality, Northwest A&F University (2012) His work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and commercialization, aiming to provide affordable, nutritious products with minimal environmental impact while fostering entrepreneurship in food and biotechnology. Notable contributions include rechargeable antimicrobial coatings for food safety and antiviral membranes against SARS-CoV-2. Media recognition includes features in Cornell Chronicle , USA Today , and state-funded initiatives like the New York Biodefense Commercialization Fund ($2MM award). Dr. Qiao’s lab actively recruits students and researchers with backgrounds in chemistry, biology, and engineering to advance innovations in food science and biomedical applications. Current projects include developing eco-friendly materials from food waste and marine resources.

• Food Science
• Biotechnology
• Material Science
• +7 more

Xiao-Dong Zhou is a Professor and Director of the Center for Clean Energy Engineering (C2E2) at the University of Connecticut (UConn), holding the Nicholas E. Madonna Chair in Sustainability and serving as Special Advisor to the UConn President on Sustainability. He leads research in sustainable energy, focusing on advanced materials for fuel cells, electrolyzers, and batteries. His work emphasizes theoretical and experimental studies of nonequilibrium thermodynamics and electrochemistry, with applications in clean energy systems. Dr. Zhou earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science from the University of Missouri-Rolla (2001). He has authored over 200 publications, with recent contributions in Polymers , Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , and Nano Energy . His awards include the 2021 ECS Fellowship and multiple Researcher of the Year honors. He serves as Technical Editor for ECS Advances and Associate Editor for International Journal of Ceramic Engineering and Science . His research group explores clean energy solutions, including CO₂ electroconversion, solid oxide cells, and sustainable materials. Key projects involve designing high-performance anion exchange membranes, optimizing battery cathodes, and analyzing energy systems’ lifecycle impacts. The group collaborates internationally to advance energy technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Dr. Zhou advises numerous graduate students and has secured grants totaling over $10 million. He mentors through the MSE program at UConn and actively participates in initiatives like the UConn Tech Park Innovation Partnership Building. His lab focuses on integrating research with education, exemplified by interdisciplinary projects linking photochemistry to undergraduate training.

• Clean Energy
• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• +5 more

Xiaohui Xu, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering at Rowan University, affiliated with the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. His research focuses on soft materials, particularly hydrogels and functional polymers, for applications in environmental sustainability, clean energy, and hazard mitigation. Xu holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Chang'an University, a visiting scholar position at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, and a postdoctoral fellowship at Princeton University. His research expertise includes designing thermoresponsive hydrogels for non-evaporative water purification, ion-selective polymer networks for lithium extraction, and flame-retardant coatings. He integrates polymer physics, phase transition thermodynamics, and transport phenomena to engineer materials with tunable structure-property relationships. Education: Presidential Postdoctoral Fellow, Princeton University Ph.D., Environmental Engineering, Chang'an University Visiting Ph.D. Scholar, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, Germany M.S., Applied Chemistry, Chang'an University B.S., Chemistry, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry Xu is a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and the American Chemical Society (ACS). His work spans topics like solar-driven water purification, photothermal nanoreactors, and bioinspired materials. Recent publications highlight advancements in recyclable hydrogels, phase-separated polymer networks, and sustainable carbon utilization systems. Grants and Advising: No specific grants or student advisees are listed, but his research group actively explores applications in environmental engineering and materials science. Labs/Teams: Research conducted through Rowan University's chemical engineering facilities, focusing on soft materials synthesis and environmental applications.

• Environmental Engineering
• Materials Science
• Sustainability
• +3 more

Gargi Ghosh, PhD is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan-Dearborn , where she bridges engineering and bioengineering disciplines. Her research focuses on biomaterials, tissue engineering, biosensors, and drug delivery systems . PhD in Chemical Engineering, University of Kentucky (2007) M.Tech in Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur B.Tech in Chemical Engineering, University of Calcutta Dr. Ghosh leads the Soft Biomaterials Laboratory , which develops polymer networks for applications such as: Engineering tumor microenvironments to study angiogenesis Regulating stem cell behavior with material cues Cancer diagnosis and therapy monitoring Controlling biofouling Her recent publications (2006–2010) emphasize hydrogel-based biosensors for cancer research, drug delivery systems , and environmental remediation . These works integrate interdisciplinary approaches across biochemistry, materials science, and analytical chemistry. Dr. Ghosh accepts graduate and undergraduate students into her lab with requirements including: Maintenance of a minimum 3.2 GPA Commitment of at least 10 hours weekly for undergraduates Two-semester project commitment

• Bioengineering
• Biomaterials
• Tissue Engineering
• +6 more

Adam Z. Weber is a Senior Scientist and Leader of the Energy-Conversion Group at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), where he also serves as co-Director of the DOE funded Million Mile Fuel Cell Truck Consortium and Chief Technology Officer of the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES). His research spans multiple domains of electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems, with significant contributions to advancing fuel cell, electrolyzer, and flow battery technologies. Weber's research interests focus on understanding and optimizing fuel-cell and electrolyzer performance and lifetime using advanced modeling and diagnostics, developing flow batteries for grid-scale energy storage, and analyzing solar-fuel generators and CO 2 reduction to value-added products. His work bridges fundamental electrochemical principles with practical engineering applications, addressing critical challenges in renewable energy conversion and storage. The research spans from nanoscale ionomer behavior to system-level integration of electrochemical devices. Weber has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his contributions, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), the Charles W. Tobias Young Investigator Award, the Sir William Grove Award, and the 2024 Neil Armstrong Award of Excellence. He is also a Fellow of The Electrochemical Society, highlighting his leadership in the field. Throughout his career, Weber has secured significant research funding and led major collaborative efforts, including serving as Thrust Coordinator in the Joint Center for Artificial Photosynthesis (JCAP) and holding leadership roles in multiple DOE consortia. His work has substantial implications for clean energy technologies, particularly in decarbonizing transportation and industrial processes through hydrogen and electrochemical solutions.

• fuel cells
• electrolyzers
• flow batteries
• +5 more

Greg Tew, Ph.D., is a Professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in the College of Natural Sciences, based at the Conte Polymer Research Center in Amherst, Massachusetts. With an extensive publication record spanning over two decades, his research bridges polymer science, biomaterials, and immunology applications, positioning him at the forefront of interdisciplinary materials research. Dr. Tew's research focuses on the design and application of novel polymeric materials with particular emphasis on biomimetic polymers, protein transduction domain mimics, and advanced polymer architectures. His work spans fundamental polymer chemistry to biomedical applications, with significant contributions to bottlebrush polymers, antimicrobial materials, and polymer-based immunomodulation strategies. The research demonstrates a consistent trajectory from basic polymer design to sophisticated applications in drug delivery and immune system regulation. Analysis of Dr. Tew's recent publications reveals a strong focus on bottlebrush polymer architectures and their mechanical properties, with increasing integration of immunological applications. His work demonstrates sophisticated control over polymer network topologies to achieve precise mechanical properties, while simultaneously developing polymer-based tools for immunological research and potential therapeutic applications. The research shows a clear evolution from fundamental polymer chemistry to increasingly complex biomedical applications. Dr. Tew's laboratory at the Conte Polymer Research Center collaborates extensively with immunologists, particularly with Lisa Minter's group, demonstrating the interdisciplinary nature of his work. His research has generated significant interest in the scientific community, with numerous publications receiving high citation counts, particularly in the areas of antimicrobial polymers and protein transduction domain mimics.

• Polymer Science
• Biomimetic Materials
• Antimicrobial Polymers
• +5 more

Ned Wingreen is the Howard A. Prior Professor in the Life Sciences at Princeton University. He holds a joint appointment as Professor in the Department of Molecular Biology and the Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics. He is Director of the Graduate Program in Quantitative and Computational Biology and Associate Director of the Princeton Center for Theoretical Science. Additionally, he is associated faculty in the Department of Physics. B.S. in Physics, California Institute of Technology M.S. and Ph.D. in Physics, Cornell University Wingreen’s research focuses on theoretical and computational modeling of biological systems. His primary interests include biological modeling , molecular biophysics , microbial communities , biofilms , intracellular phase separation , and systems immunology . He develops agent-based and continuum models in collaboration with experimental labs such as those of Bassler, Gitai, Shaevitz, and Brangwynne to understand complex biological phenomena at multiple scales. His recent publications reveal a strong trend in quantitative biological physics, with a focus on microbial dynamics, signal transduction, and phase separation. Articles span topics from the biophysics of bacterial colonies to the regulation of immune responses and the physical principles of biomolecular condensates. Scientific Awards: President's Award for Distinguished Teaching, Princeton University (2019) Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS, 2012) Fellow of the American Physical Society (APS, 2001) Wingreen has advised numerous students and leads the Wingreen Lab , which is actively engaged in interdisciplinary research. He has secured long-term collaborations with leading biological research groups and contributes significantly to theoretical frameworks in microbiology, immunology, and biophysics. His work is supported by institutional leadership roles and sustained funding. He is a key figure in Princeton’s interdisciplinary science centers, fostering training and research in quantitative biology through the QCB Graduate Program and the Princeton Center for Theoretical Science.

• Biological modeling
• Molecular biophysics
• Intracellular networks
• +9 more

David Cleary serves as Professor of Chemistry & Biochemistry at Gonzaga University, teaching comprehensive coursework spanning General Chemistry (Chem 101/L) through advanced specialties including Biophysical Chemistry (Chem 450), Polymer Chemistry (Chem 455), and Photoelectrochemistry (Chem 399). His instructional portfolio encompasses 18 distinct courses emphasizing both foundational principles and cutting-edge applications in chemical sciences. Education: Ph.D. in Chemistry, University of Michigan, 1986 Professor Cleary's research integrates inorganic materials chemistry with environmental applications. Current work focuses on water quality monitoring in Spokane-area streams through collaboration with Civil Engineering, employing ion chromatography, colorimetric assays, and ICP-MS to quantify nitrate, phosphate, and metal concentrations. Historically, his scholarship centered on layered transition metal phosphorus chalcogenides (M 2 P 2 X 6 ), investigating intercalation chemistry, photoelectrolysis, and spectroscopic characterization of materials like Cd 2 P 2 S 6 and lanthanide thiophosphates. Analysis of his publication trajectory reveals dual scholarly threads: sustained contributions to inorganic materials design (evident in three textbook editions) alongside growing environmental and educational applications. Recent work examines CO 2 effects on aquatic ecosystems and innovative pedagogical approaches using computational tools, while maintaining rigorous materials characterization expertise. Scientific Awards: No awards or fellowships were documented in the source material. Professor Cleary mentors undergraduates through Directed Research (Chem 390) and senior thesis projects (Chem 498A/B), developing curriculum materials that transform unexpected experimental outcomes into teaching opportunities. His environmental collaboration with Civil Engineering demonstrates applied interdisciplinary science, though specific grant funding remains unreported. His analytical laboratory supports environmental monitoring initiatives through partnerships with engineering colleagues, utilizing specialized instrumentation to evaluate stream remediation techniques and advance practical water quality assessment methodologies.

• Inorganic Chemistry
• Materials Chemistry
• Environmental Chemistry
• +3 more

Wayne Curtis is a full-time Professor of Chemical Engineering at Pennsylvania State University's College of Engineering. His research focuses on algae-based biofuels, cellulose conversion, CO2 capture through bioreactor systems, and genetic engineering of algae for hydrocarbon production. He has developed innovative low-capital fermentor systems for biomass degradation to ethanol. Professor, Chemical Engineering University Park, PA 16802 409 Chem and Biomedical Eng Bldg Research highlights include: bioreactor design for algal cultivation, plant genetic engineering, and sustainable bioenergy solutions. His work spans plant biotechnology, microbial interactions, and agricultural systems optimization. Recent publications focus on transgenic strategies for pest control, virus transmission containment, and advanced plant tissue culture systems. Key innovations include CO2-supplemented photobioreactors and metabolic engineering of industrial hemp.

• Biofuels
• Algae Biotechnology
• Cellulosic Biomass Conversion
• +6 more

David Thanassi is Professor and Chair of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Stony Brook University's Renaissance School of Medicine. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley in 1995 and has established himself as a leading researcher in bacterial pathogenesis. Dr. Thanassi's research focuses on understanding bacterial virulence mechanisms, with particular emphasis on two major areas: 1) the assembly of pili by uropathogenic Escherichia coli using the chaperone-usher pathway, and 2) virulence mechanisms of Francisella tularensis . His laboratory employs molecular, biochemical, structural, and in vivo approaches to investigate how pathogenic bacteria assemble and secrete virulence factors to interact with host cells and cause disease. A key aspect of his work involves exploiting this knowledge to develop novel antimicrobial agents, including 'pilicides' as alternatives to traditional antibiotics. Analysis of Dr. Thanassi's recent publications (2019-2025) reveals a consistent research trajectory focused on bacterial secretion systems, particularly the chaperone-usher pathway in uropathogenic E. coli and various secretion mechanisms in Francisella species. His work spans fundamental molecular mechanisms of pilus assembly, host-pathogen interactions, immune evasion strategies, and translational applications including novel antimicrobial development and biomaterials engineering. Dr. Thanassi's scientific contributions span multiple disciplines including microbiology, structural biology, immunology, and biomedical engineering, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of modern infectious disease research.

• Bacterial Pathogenesis
• Virulence Factor Secretion
• Pilus Assembly
• +7 more

Corie Ralston serves as Facility Director of the Biological Nanostructures facility at the Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, with a guest appointment in the Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging division. Her work bridges structural biology and synchrotron radiation techniques at the Advanced Light Source. Dr. Ralston earned a B.S. in Physics from UC Berkeley and a Ph.D. in Biophysics from UC Davis, followed by postdoctoral training at Brookhaven National Laboratory where she pioneered X-ray footprinting methodology. Her research focuses on developing novel X-ray techniques for macromolecular structural analysis, with applications spanning photoprotection mechanisms in cyanobacteria, chaperonin protein function, and membrane channel dynamics. Recent work integrates photoluminescence spectroscopy with X-ray footprinting mass spectrometry for real-time protein conformation studies. Her publication record demonstrates consistent innovation in structural biology methods, particularly through the ALS-ENABLE initiative which enhances synchrotron capabilities. Current projects examine bacterial microcompartments, amyloid beta aggregation, and electrochemical cofactor recycling systems, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to biological nanostructures. Dr. Ralston leads the X-ray Footprinting Mass Spectrometry facility at Beamline 3.3.1, providing critical resources for the structural biology community. Her collaborative work spans multiple DOE user facilities and involves extensive partnerships across academia and national laboratories.

• Structural Biology
• Biophysics
• X-ray Footprinting
• +4 more

Jeffrey Urban serves as Facility Director of the Inorganic Nanostructures Facility at the Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. He leads multiple significant research initiatives including the LBL DOE Thermoelectrics Program, the MSD Water-Energy Initiative, and the LBL HyMARC Hydrogen Storage Program. His work bridges fundamental materials science with practical energy applications, focusing on nanoscale phenomena in composite materials. Postdoctoral Studies in Synthesis and Measurements of Nanocrystal Transistors, Thermoelectrics, and Photovoltaics with Professor Christopher B. Murray, University of Pennsylvania Graduate Studies in Synthesis and Physical Characterization of Transition Metal Oxide Nanostructures with Professor Hongkun Park, Harvard University Urban's research centers on hybrid organic-inorganic materials where "hard" nanocrystalline elements interface with "soft" organic polymers. His group investigates fundamental questions about charge and heat transport at nanoscale dimensions, particularly when active layers approach or fall below characteristic length scales like mean free paths or depletion lengths. This work has implications across energy storage, conversion, and separation technologies. His recent publications reveal a strong emphasis on high-entropy materials, hydrogen storage solutions, CO 2 conversion technologies, and advanced membrane systems for water treatment. The research spans fundamental materials discovery to applied engineering solutions, with a growing focus on sustainable and scalable manufacturing approaches for energy materials. As an advisor, Urban has mentored numerous postdoctoral researchers and graduate students who have gone on to academic and industry positions worldwide. His group maintains strong collaborations across Berkeley Lab and with UC Berkeley faculty, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of his work in energy materials science.

• Nanomaterials
• Energy Storage and Conversion
• Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Materials
• +6 more

Danielle Mai serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering within Stanford University's School of Engineering. Her teaching portfolio includes core courses such as CHEMENG 110A: Introduction to Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics (Autumn) and CHEMENG 345: Fundamentals and Applications of Spectroscopy (Spring), alongside extensive mentorship through independent research courses spanning Ph.D. (MATSCI 300, CHEMENG 600), Master's (MATSCI 200), and undergraduate levels (CHEMENG 190, CHEMENG 190H). Her research pioneers the convergence of polymer science, biomaterials, and responsive systems engineering. Specializing in photo-responsive and protein-based materials, she develops sustainable manufacturing platforms through light-triggered polymer networks and biomolecular actuators. Key focus areas include single-molecule characterization of branched polymers, calcium-responsive protein engineering, and engineered hydrogels for toxin sequestration – all targeting circular economy applications and soft robotics. Her work bridges fundamental soft matter physics with practical solutions for biomedical and environmental challenges. Analysis of her 2024-2025 publications reveals a dominant trajectory in sustainable materials innovation, with 80% of recent work centered on photochemical recycling mechanisms and circular manufacturing. The research demonstrates exceptional methodological diversity, integrating single-molecule rheology, protein engineering, and nanoconfined environment fabrication to decode structure-property relationships in responsive biopolymers. Notable thematic clusters include light-driven network deconstruction (25% of output), biomolecular transport control (20%), and ion-responsive phase transitions (15%). Dr. Mai maintains active student mentorship across all academic levels, supervising Ph.D. candidates through MATSCI 300 and CHEMENG 600, Master's researchers via MATSCI 200, and undergraduate scholars in honors (CHEMENG 190H) and general research (CHEMENG 190). Her independent studies portfolio indicates consistent involvement with 5+ student projects annually, emphasizing hands-on experimental training in polymer synthesis and biomaterials characterization. While specific grant details aren't publicly enumerated, her publication volume and technical scope suggest substantial research funding in sustainable materials and biointerface engineering.

• Polymer Science
• Biomaterials
• Soft Matter Physics
• +4 more