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Daniel CrockerView profile

Research Fellow

• Stable Isotope Geochemistry
• Environmental Geochemistry
• Organic Matter Cycling
• +3 more

Daniel Crocker is a Research Fellow at Harvard University's Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS), affiliated with the Johnston Group. His research focuses on stable isotope geochemistry to elucidate organic matter cycling across diverse environments, including ancient meteorites and Earth's marine systems. He completed his Ph.D. at UC San Diego as part of the CAICE center, studying sea spray aerosols and anthropogenic aerosol source apportionment using isotopic techniques. Current projects include developing triple oxygen isotope methodologies for organic matter analysis, investigating meteorite organic synthesis, and studying organic matter oxidation pathways in aquatic settings. In Fall 2024, he begins an NSF-AGS Postdoctoral Fellowship to explore atmospheric oxidation pathways of organic aerosols and their climate impacts. His work bridges geochemistry, atmospheric science, and environmental chemistry, with implications for understanding climate feedbacks and planetary processes. Key contributions include methodological advancements in isotope analysis and interdisciplinary studies linking biological processes to aerosol composition. His research highlights the interplay between organic matter transformation, environmental drivers, and climate-relevant aerosol properties. Awards: NSF-AGS Postdoctoral Fellowship (2024). Labs/Teams: Johnston Group (Harvard), Center for Aerosol Impacts on Chemistry of the Environment (CAICE, UCSD).

Emma Hamilton-WilliamsView profile

Research Professor

• Autoimmunity
• Immunology
• Medical microbiology
• +3 more

Professor Emma Hamilton-Williams is a Professorial Research Fellow at the Frazer Institute, University of Queensland. She holds a PhD from the Australian National University and completed postdoctoral training in Germany and at the Scripps Research Institute. Her research focuses on understanding autoimmune mechanisms in type 1 diabetes, particularly involving the gut microbiota and immunotherapy development. She leads the ENDIA cohort study tracking children at risk of type 1 diabetes, investigating environmental drivers like diet and microbiota. Current projects include microbiome-targeted therapies and liposomal nanoparticle-based immunotherapy for disease prevention. She is available for supervision and collaborates extensively with institutions globally. Education: PhD in Biomedical Sciences, Australian National University (2001) Bachelor (Honours) of Science (Advanced), Victoria University of Wellington Research Interests: Her work spans gut microbiota interactions in type 1 diabetes pathogenesis, prebiotic/probiotic interventions, and antigen-specific immunotherapy using liposomes. She employs proteomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics to study host-microbiota relationships and therapeutic efficacy. Grants & Funding: Current grants include targeting microbial metabolites for diabetes prevention (NHMRC IDEAS) and ENDIA cohort follow-up (JDRF Australia). Past funding supported studies on host-microbiota interactions and IL-2 pathways in diabetes. Advising & Labs: Current supervision includes projects on microbiome-diet interactions and antigen-specific T-cell responses. Her lab is part of the Frazer Institute, focusing on translational research in immunology and diabetes.

Gordon OsinskiView profile

Professor

• Planetary Geology
• Astrobiology
• Economic Geology
• +3 more

Dr. Gordon Osinski is a Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at Western University, specializing in planetary geology, astrobiology, and economic geology. His research integrates fieldwork, remote sensing, and laboratory analyses to study impact craters, particularly their role in planetary evolution and astrobiological potential. He has conducted fieldwork on six continents, with significant work in the Canadian Arctic. Dr. Osinski leads the Canadian Lunar Rover Mission, Canada's first lunar rover mission, and is part of NASA's Artemis III geology team for the Moon landing. He is also a Co-Investigator on the ExoMars mission's PanCam instrument. His academic role includes teaching graduate courses on planetary science and impact cratering. He oversees labs in the Biological and Geological Sciences Building and is affiliated with the Centre for Planetary Science and Exploration (CPSX). Research Interests: Planetary geology focuses on impact crater processes, Mars and Moon exploration, and hydrothermal systems. Astrobiology studies microbial life in impact environments. Economic geology examines Sudbury impact-related mineralization. He collaborates globally, training astronauts in field geology and advising on mission science planning. Dr. Osinski's teaching includes Earth Sciences 2232G and advanced planetary science seminars. He actively mentors graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in impact cratering, planetary materials, and field geology. His lab locations include WSC 12, 14, 18, 26, 27, and 30. Current research projects include analyzing Martian gully formation, lunar basins, and biosignature preservation in impact hydrothermal systems. His work bridges academia and space exploration, with direct involvement in mission design (e.g., Artemis III) and sample analysis strategies. He emphasizes using Earth analogs to interpret extraterrestrial geology, fostering international collaboration in planetary science.

• Food Science
• Plant-based Protein Research
• Starch Chemistry
• +4 more

Oguz Kaan Ozturk serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition within the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His research program centers on developing sustainable plant-based food systems through advanced protein engineering and starch modification techniques, with particular emphasis on creating viable gluten-free alternatives and meat analogues. His primary research domains include: Plant-based Protein Research Starch Chemistry and Functionality Protein Engineering for Food Applications Extrusion Technology in Food Processing Gluten-Free Food Development Food Texture and Viscoelastic Properties Gut Health and $$\\beta\\text{-glucan}$$ Fermentation Analysis of Dr. Ozturk's 27 research outputs (2023-2025) reveals a concentrated focus on leveraging corn zein and rice starch to enhance textural properties in pea protein extrudates. His work systematically investigates protein-starch interactions under high-moisture extrusion conditions, while simultaneously exploring how tannic acid modulates gluten functionality and starch digestion. The 2023 publication on zein dispersion into pea protein using alkaline agents has gained significant traction with 30 citations and 44 Mendeley reader mentions, indicating strong industry and academic interest in his methodology for creating cohesive plant-based food matrices. Collaboration patterns show consistent partnerships with leading researchers including Barry R. Hamaker and Osvaldo H. Campanella across multiple publications, reflecting an integrated approach spanning food chemistry, engineering, and nutritional science. His recent $$\\beta\\text{-D-glucan}$$ fermentation studies demonstrate expanding interests in the gut health implications of dietary fiber modifications.

• Gut microbiota
• Resistant starch
• Prebiotics
• +4 more

Cynthia Klostermann is a postdoctoral researcher at Wageningen University & Research specializing in Food Chemistry. Her work focuses on carbohydrate-microbiota interactions, particularly resistant starch type 3's immunomodulatory effects and prebiotic applications in infant health. She collaborates extensively across microbiology, immunology, and food science domains. Active in microbiome research (Bifidobacterium, Ruminococcus) Expert in polysaccharide analysis and fermentation dynamics Recipient of multiple academic awards including the Rudy Rabbinge Prize Her research explores how dietary carbohydrates influence gut health through TLR2/TLR4 signaling pathways and microbial community shifts. Recent publications in Carbohydrate Polymers and Beneficial Microbes demonstrate her focus on starch digestion mechanisms and infantile colic etiology. Scientific recognition includes: Best PhD award (2022) Two poster prizes at academic symposia (2019, 2022) She supervises PhD candidates in projects investigating: Exopolysaccharides in fermented soybeans (T. E. Pramudito) Carbohydrate formulations for microbiota modulation (L. Llanos Moreno)

David HoldingView profile

Professor

• Plant Molecular Genetics
• Plant Breeding
• Endosperm Development
• +6 more

David Holding is a Professor in the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, serving as Associate Department Head and Director of Plant Biology. His research focuses on plant molecular genetics, particularly endosperm development and protein quality improvement in cereals like maize and sorghum. Key research areas include: Elucidating the molecular basis of endosperm hardening in maize kernels Characterizing opaque2 modifier genes for Quality Protein Maize development Advancing functional genomics platforms in maize and sorghum Investigating seed storage proteins and their nutritional impact Developing novel popcorn varieties with enhanced protein quality His methodological approaches integrate transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolic profiling, and genome editing technologies. Current projects aim to identify genetic modifiers for cereal improvement, analyze endosperm mutants, and develop sustainable crop varieties.

Ryan DilgerView profile

Professor

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Neural Development
• Animal Nutrition
• +4 more

Ryan Dilger is a Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with additional appointments as Professor in Nutritional Sciences, Professor at the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Professor at the Center for Digital Agriculture, National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA), and Affiliate at the Personalized Nutrition Initiative, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology. He also serves as Director of the Illinois Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation. Dr. Dilger's research integrates animal nutrition, immunophysiology, and neuroscience, with a focus on comparative animal nutrition and the biochemical aspects of proteins and amino acids. His laboratory specializes in using translational piglet models to investigate how nutrient intake and infection during the neonatal period affect brain development and cognitive function, particularly learning and memory. His work explores the gut-brain axis, examining how nutritional interventions influence microbiome composition and subsequent neural outcomes. Current research includes studies on iron deficiency, choline metabolism, prebiotics, and novel dietary components like milk fat globule membrane and lactoferrin. His recent publications demonstrate a strong interdisciplinary approach combining agricultural technology, neuroscience, and nutritional science. The research trends show consistent focus on developing translational animal models, particularly piglets, to address both practical agricultural challenges and fundamental questions about human nutrition and neurodevelopment. His work bridges basic science with potential applications in pediatric nutrition and animal health. Dr. Dilger actively mentors students in his Piglet Nutrition & Cognition Laboratory, including undergraduate researchers like AJ Patsavas and Rebecca Moll who presented honors theses on fiber effects on piglet behavior and neuroplasticity, respectively. Graduate students such as Stephen Fleming and Austin Mudd have collaborated on significant publications. His laboratory has secured funding for research examining the connections between nutrition, gut health, and brain development, with applications for both animal agriculture and human health. The Piglet Nutrition & Cognition Laboratory operates as a multidisciplinary research team using advanced technologies including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess brain development. The lab has established protocols like the novel object recognition task for evaluating piglet cognition and has published in high-impact journals across animal science, nutrition, and neuroscience fields. Their research has implications for developing improved pediatric nutrition products and understanding early-life nutritional programming of brain function.

• Synthetic Biology
• Metabolic Engineering
• Bioprocess Engineering
• +4 more

João Manuel Rainha Costa is a postdoctoral Researcher at the Center for Biological Engineering, University of Minho, specializing in synthetic biology and industrial biotechnology. He earned his PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering (2024) and MSc in Biotechnology (2017) from the University of Minho, focusing on microbial synthesis of valuable compounds. PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering (2024) MSc in Biotechnology (2017) BSc in Biochemistry (2015) His research focuses on constructing heterologous pathways in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Zymomonas mobilis for sustainable production of curcumin, fructooligosaccharides, and biosurfactants using synthetic biology techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 and metabolic engineering. He specializes in bioprocess optimization and valorization of industrial/agricultural residues. Recent publications show strong focus on 2025 Zymomonas mobilis gene deletion strategies for prebiotic production , 2024 yeast curcumin biosynthesis advancements, and 2022-2023 multi-enzyme systems for functional sweeteners and bioactive mixtures . His work spans from metabolic pathway design to industrial application in textile and food sectors. Scientific Awards PRR Bolseiro de Investigação (BE@T project) SFRH/BD/138325/2018 PhD grant (FCT) POCI-01-0145-FEDER-029549 Research Grant He supervises students in synthetic biology projects and industrial biotechnology applications. Additional roles include science communication training , conference organization , and peer review for journals like International Journal of Molecular Sciences and Biotechnology Journal.

• Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Quantum Mechanics
• High-Order Harmonic Generation
• +19 more

Prof. ERDİ ATA BLEDA is a Professor in the Department of Physics at Marmara University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences . He earned his Ph.D. in Physics and Astronomy from Clemson University (2008) and has held academic positions at both Marmara University and Istanbul Arel University. His research spans atomic and molecular physics, computational quantum chemistry, high-order harmonic generation, and machine learning applications in materials science. Doctorate: Clemson University, Physics and Astronomy (2004–2008) Postgraduate: Clemson University (2002–2004) Undergraduate: Marmara University, Physics (1997–2001) His research interests include atomic and molecular interactions , quantum mechanical modeling , nonlinear optical processes , plasma spectroscopy , and machine learning in material properties prediction . He employs computational methods such as DFT, TDDFT, and kinetic Monte Carlo simulations to study molecular systems, confined atoms, and nanostructures. His recent work explores twisted bilayer graphene using machine learning and high-harmonic generation from endofullerenes. The most recent publications reflect a strong trend in computational materials discovery , atomic-scale simulation , and quantum phenomena in confined systems . His work integrates physics, chemistry, and computer science, often with applications in nanotechnology and astrophysics. Themes include dielectronic recombination in plasmas, hydrogen bonding in organic molecules, and electronic structure analysis of novel carbon systems. His scientific awards include: In recognition of passion and dedication to improving student learning with Pearson’s MasteringPhysics (2013) Second Place in Physics Mef National Project Competition (1997) He supervises several graduate and doctoral students, with recent theses on machine learning in 2D nanostructures and parallelization of Green’s function methods. He has led multiple TÜBİTAK-funded research projects integrating GPU computing and quantum modeling. He also serves as the Erasmus Program Institutional Coordinator and has held leadership roles in academic commissions. He has contributed to scientific software development and holds patents in interactive data management systems. He is actively involved in research laboratories and teams focusing on computational physics, quantum chemistry, and high-performance computing. His group collaborates internationally and presents regularly at major physics and quantum chemistry conferences.

• Prebiotic Oligosaccharides
• Food Chemistry
• Nutrition
• +7 more

Alejandra Cardelle Cobas is a Professor at the Faculty of Sciences, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela , affiliated with the LHICA-USC Food Hygiene, Inspection and Control research group and the BioReDes Strategic Grouping in Sustainable Bioresource Management . Her work focuses on prebiotic oligosaccharides , chitosan applications , and functional food development . She earned her PhD from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid in 2009 with a thesis on "Synthesis, Characterization and Study of the Prebiotic Nature of Oligosaccharides Derived from Lactulose" , supervised by Dr. María Nieves Corzo Sánchez. Her research spans food chemistry , gut microbiota modulation , and oral health product development . Key article trends include: Optimization of galactooligosaccharide synthesis from lactose/lactulose Development of chitosan-based functional foods for cholesterol reduction Innovative oral care formulations with antimicrobial activity Microbiota-targeted interventions in inflammatory models Her collaborations span institutions like Universidad Complutense de Madrid and Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique. Current projects emphasize sustainable food processing and bioactive ingredient development .

• Food Science
• Nutrition
• Resistant Starch
• +7 more

Zhong Kai Zhou is a research-active academic affiliated with Charles Sturt University and the Gulbali Research Institute. His work spans food science, nutrition, and gut health, with a strong emphasis on functional ingredients such as resistant starch, chitosan, and prebiotics. He contributes extensively to research in dietary modulation of gut microbiota, metabolic health, and food formulation. Research Interests: Dr. Zhou's research centers on the functional properties of starch, particularly resistant starch, and its applications in improving nutritional quality and health outcomes. His work explores how dietary components influence gut microbiota, short-chain fatty acid production, and metabolic regulation. He investigates food processing techniques, encapsulation systems, and the development of functional foods targeting obesity, diabetes, and digestive health. His interdisciplinary approach integrates food chemistry, nutrition, and metabolomics. Publication Trends: His recent publications (2022–2025) highlight a consistent focus on food chemistry, particularly in modifying starch and protein interactions, enhancing functional properties in meat and baked goods, and developing delivery systems for probiotics and bioactive compounds. There is a clear trend toward translational research, linking food science with human and animal health outcomes, especially in metabolic and gut-related conditions. Scientific Recognition: While no specific awards are listed, Dr. Zhou has an h-index of 40 and over 4,600 citations, indicating substantial scholarly impact. His work appears in high-quality journals such as Food Chemistry and Food Hydrocolloids . Advising and Collaboration: Although no formal students are listed, his frequent co-authorship suggests active collaboration within research teams. He works closely with experts in food science and nutrition, contributing to multi-institutional and interdisciplinary projects. His research outputs indicate involvement in externally funded studies, particularly in functional foods and animal nutrition. Laboratory and Research Environment: Based at the Gulbali Research Institute, Dr. Zhou operates within a dynamic research environment focused on agricultural and food innovation. The institute supports advanced research in sustainable food systems, animal health, and nutritional science, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities for food analysis, microbiology, and metabolomics.

• Functional Foods
• Mycology
• Biotechnology
• +4 more

Jeff Ojwach is a researcher affiliated with the School of Biological Sciences at the University of East Anglia (UEA), where he contributes to research in biotechnology and functional foods. His work focuses on harnessing bioactive compounds from unconventional fungal sources for health applications. His research interests lie at the intersection of mycology, food science, and biotechnology. Specifically, he investigates oligosaccharides derived from coprophilous fungi as emerging functional foods with health-promoting properties . His work emphasizes sustainable and novel sources of prebiotics and nutraceuticals, contributing to advancements in natural product development and microbial biotechnology. The research article published in 2022 highlights a trend toward exploring underutilized biological resources for functional food innovation. The study bridges gaps in food biotechnology, fungal metabolism, and human health, suggesting future directions in sustainable nutrition and microbial resource valorization. No scientific awards listed. There is no available information on student advisement or research grants. However, his publication indicates active engagement in peer-reviewed scientific research, likely supported by institutional or collaborative funding. His contribution reflects independent and collaborative research efforts with scholars across disciplines. There is no mention of specific laboratories, research teams, or collaborative groups in the provided text. His research network appears to extend internationally, as suggested by co-author affiliations, but specific lab or team structures are not disclosed.

Matthias ZilbauerView profile

Clinical Professor

• Intestinal Stem Cell Biology
• Epigenetics
• Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
• +3 more

Matthias Zilbauer is a Clinical Professor of Paediatric Gastroenterology at the University of Cambridge, affiliated with the Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute. He holds an MD from the University of Mainz and a PhD from University College London (UCL), focusing on mucosal immunology. His research group studies intestinal epithelial stem cell biology, epigenetic mechanisms in health and diseases like Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) and Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC). Key projects include developing clinical biomarkers for IBD, testing novel therapies using organoid models, and creating 2D/3D co-culture systems integrating immune cells and microbiota. His team maintains a large biobank of over 1000 human intestinal organoid lines. Key collaborators include the Medical Research Council (MRC), Helmsley Charitable Trust, and Action Medical Research. Zilbauer leads a dynamic group with active PhD students and postdocs, focusing on translational research to improve pediatric gastrointestinal care. His work bridges basic science and clinical applications, emphasizing epigenetic regulation, organoid technology, and precision medicine.

Christoph C AdamiView profile

Professor

• Computational Biology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Information Theory
• +5 more

Christoph C Adami is a Professor at Michigan State University (MSU), holding joint appointments in the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology, the Department of Physics & Astronomy, the Ecology, Evolution & Behavior Program, and the BioMolecular Science Gateway within the College of Natural Sciences. He is also affiliated with the Adami Lab, which focuses on computational biology, digital evolution, and information theory. His research integrates evolutionary biology, quantum mechanics, and artificial life, with notable contributions including the Avida platform for studying digital evolution and pioneering work on applying information theory to evolutionary processes. His education includes a BS in physics and mathematics, a Diplom in theoretical physics from the University of Bonn, and MA/PhD in physics from SUNY Stony Brook. He has held roles such as Principal Scientist at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (NASA) and authored the textbook *Introduction to Artificial Life* (1998). Adami’s research interests span Darwinian evolution at molecular to cognitive levels, quantum information theory, and the origins of life. His work on digital life explores evolutionary dynamics using computational models, while his quantum studies address foundational questions in physics. He has developed influential frameworks like Markov Brains for studying cognitive evolution and neural network dynamics. His 150+ publications (e.g., 2023’s *Evolution of Biological Information*) reflect expertise in evolutionary systems, artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary applications. Awards include NASA’s Exceptional Achievement Medal (2011 AAAS Fellow, 2017 APS Fellow, and 2019 ISAL Lifetime Achievement Award). Adami advises students in computational biology and AI, leading interdisciplinary teams in the Adami Lab. Key projects include ealib software for evolutionary algorithms, studies on integrated information in animats, and collaborations on quantum measurement theory. His work bridges theoretical insights with experimental validation, advancing our understanding of life’s complexity and information processing across scales.

• Nutrition
• Food Science
• Gut Microbiota
• +7 more

Professor Harsharn Gill is a faculty member at RMIT University's School of Science. His research focuses on diet, health, and disease, with a particular emphasis on gut microbiota, metabolic syndrome, and functional foods. He holds a professorial rank and supervises research projects spanning nutraceuticals, probiotics, and antimicrobial therapies. **Research Interests**: Diet-health interactions, gut-immune health, probiotics, and the role of functional foods in chronic disease management. His work combines molecular docking studies, in vitro digestion modeling, and agricultural biotechnology to explore novel interventions for obesity, metabolic disorders, and microbial modulation. **Recent Articles**: Prof. Gill's 2025 studies on human milk oligosaccharides and infant formula revealed their anti-inflammatory roles, while 2024 research demonstrated biostimulant-enhanced hemp and strawberry functional properties. His 2023 work includes molecular studies on anti-obesity compounds targeting PPARγ and Y1R receptors. Grants/Advising : Supervised over 15 PhD projects on topics like dietary modifications, cheese microbiota, and herbal medicine efficacy. Labs/Teams : Collaborates with food chemistry and agricultural teams at RMIT, focusing on functional food development and nutraceutical innovation.