Hugo de Lasa is a Full Professor at the Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Western Ontario. He holds a Bachelor in Chemical Engineering (1968) from Universidad Nacional del Sur, Argentina, and a Doctoral degree (1971) from Université de Nancy, France. Research Focus: Catalysis, Photocatalysis, Chemical Reactor Engineering, Fluidization, Biomass Gasification Awards: Research Excellence Prize (1998), Fellow of the Chemical Institute of Canada (2000), Medal of Research and Development (2000), Doctor Honoris Causa (2004, 2018) His work spans chemical reactor design , photocatalytic hydrogen production , and fluidized bed technologies . Recent publications highlight machine learning applications in chemical equilibrium modeling and CO2 capture using microalgae. He founded the Chemical Reactor Engineering Centre (CREC) and Recat Technologies Inc. , a university spin-off commercializing reactor innovations. Awards include the Vanguard Award (2019) and Commemorative Issue in Catalysts Journal (2020). His research has generated 389 peer-reviewed publications , 14 patents , and over 10,000 citations .
David Chester Upham is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering within the Faculty of Applied Science at the University of British Columbia (UBC). He leads the Upham Lab, which focuses on developing catalysts and processes for sustainable energy production, greenhouse gas mitigation, and CO 2 -free chemical conversion. Dr. Upham received his education from prestigious institutions: Postdoctoral Scholar, Stanford University (2019) Ph.D., University of California Santa Barbara (2017) B.Eng., McGill University (2010) Dr. Upham's research focuses on heterogeneous catalysis for sustainable energy applications. His work centers on developing catalysts and processes that enable CO 2 -free production of chemicals, power, and materials. He specializes in liquid heterogeneous catalysts , particularly molten metal alloys, for methane conversion, CO 2 utilization, and hydrogen production. His lab employs advanced techniques including operando IR spectroscopy, pulsed and transient analysis of reaction mechanisms, isotopic labeling studies, and in-situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy. A key aspect of his research is understanding how liquid heterogeneous catalysts behave under reaction conditions, with applications in methane pyrolysis, dry reforming, and carbon fiber synthesis. Analysis of Dr. Upham's recent publications reveals a strong focus on CO 2 mitigation and clean energy production . His work spans multiple domains including methane conversion technologies, CO 2 -to-fuels processes, and carbon-negative fuel production. A significant portion of his research investigates molten metal catalysts for methane pyrolysis and dry reforming, with applications in hydrogen production and carbon capture. His publications demonstrate an interdisciplinary approach combining chemical engineering, materials science, and environmental engineering to address climate change challenges through innovative catalytic processes. Dr. Upham actively mentors a diverse group of graduate students and researchers. His lab currently includes multiple PhD and MASc students working on various aspects of catalysis and clean energy: PhD Students: Mark Tabbara, Genpei Cai, Natascha Miederhoff MASc Students: Michael Byun, Sawyer d'Entremont, Rami Jubeili, Wyatt Schnare Postdoctoral researcher: Sonit Balyan Multiple undergraduate and visiting students from institutions worldwide The Upham Lab operates within UBC's Catalysis Labs, utilizing advanced experimental techniques to study reaction mechanisms and develop new catalysts. The lab's research has significant implications for decarbonizing the energy and chemical sectors, with potential applications in hydrogen production, carbon fiber manufacturing, and CO 2 -to-fuels technologies.
Daria Camilla Boffito is a Full Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Polytechnique Montréal , holding the Tier-2 Canada Research Chair in Intensified Mechano-chemical Processes for Sustainable Biomass Conversion. Her research spans process intensification , catalysis , sonochemistry , photocatalysis , and metal extraction , with a focus on sustainability. Education: B.Sc. and Ph.D. in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Milan, M.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry and Management Current Research: Developing ultrasound-assisted extraction , CO2 conversion , and floating photocatalysts for wastewater treatment Collaborations: Works with Canadian and international companies on sustainable chemical processes Scientific Awards include the Canada Research Chair Tier-2 (2016-2021), NSERC Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship (2013-2016), and FRQNT PBEEE Postdoctoral Fellowship (2013-2016). Advising has seen 5 Ph.D. and 9 Master's students graduate. She leads the Engineering Process Intensification and Catalysis (EPIC) Laboratory and is a member of the Institut de génie biomédical .
Michael Organ is a Full Professor at the University of Ottawa's Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, affiliated with the Faculty of Science. He also serves as Director of the Centre for Research and Innovation in Catalysis. His research focuses on catalysis, flow chemistry, and medicinal chemistry, emphasizing sustainable and efficient synthesis methods. Organ has held adjunct roles at the University of Toronto and has extensive industry collaborations, including with GlaxoSmithKline and Abbvie. Education: PhD (University of Guelph, 1992), MSc (University of Guelph, 1988), Hons. BSc (University of Guelph, 1986). Research Interests: Catalysis, microwave-assisted continuous synthesis, reactive intermediates in flow systems, and drug discovery methodologies. His work bridges organic chemistry with engineering, developing scalable and green processes. Publications & Impact: Over 200 publications, including seminal works in Journal of the American Chemical Society and Chemistry – A European Journal . Key contributions include the Pd-PEPPSI-IPent catalyst and the MACOS flow chemistry platform. Awards: NSERC John C. Polanyi Award (2018), Encyclopedia of Reagents Best Reagent Award (2017), Raymond Lemieux Award (2016). Recognized internationally for catalytic innovations. Grants & Funding: Over $45M in research funding, including NSERC Discovery Grants and industry partnerships. Notable projects include CFI JELF grants for sustainable manufacturing and pandemic-related flow chemistry for SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics. Labs & Teams: Leads the Organ Group, collaborating with chemical engineers and industry partners. Specializes in reactor design, catalyst development, and continuous processing systems.
Marina Freire-Gormaly is an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at York University's Lassonde School of Engineering. Her research focuses on renewable energy-powered water treatment systems, machine learning for smart design, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable engineering solutions for remote communities. She holds a PhD and M.A.Sc. from the University of Toronto, specializing in carbon capture and storage technologies. She has worked on nuclear energy projects at Ontario Power Generation and contributed to World Bank sustainability assessments. She currently chairs the Canadian Society of Mechanical Engineers' Student and Young Professional Affairs committee. Education: PhD in Mechanical Engineering, University of Toronto M.A.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering, University of Toronto Research Interests: She pioneers solar-powered reverse osmosis systems, energy recovery mechanisms, and IoT-driven smart systems. Her lab explores nanotechnology applications in environmental sustainability, including carbon capture and aquatic remediation. She integrates machine learning for optimizing energy-water nexus challenges in off-grid regions. Key Contributions: Developed models for membrane fouling in desalination systems, advanced pore network characterization for geologic CO2 storage, and designed automated renewable energy systems. Her work bridges engineering innovation with global sustainability goals. Grants & Collaborations: Engages with industries like Honda Canada and Trane Canada on sustainability initiatives. Supervises graduate students in emerging areas like nanobubble technology and direct air capture systems. Lab Activities: The Freire-Gormaly Lab focuses on clean energy-water systems, with current projects involving nano-technology for space applications (Canadian Space Agency collaboration) and life cycle assessments of carbon storage technologies.
Luis A. Ricardez-Sandoval is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Waterloo and holds a Tier II Canada Research Chair in Multiscale Modelling and Process Systems. His research group develops advanced computational tools for optimizing chemical processes across multiple scales. Doctorate: Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo (2008) MASc: Chemical Engineering, Instituto Tecnologico de Celaya (2000) BASc: Chemical Engineering, Instituto Tecnologico de Orizaba (1997) The research group focuses on multiscale modelling and process systems engineering , particularly for CO2 capture , energy systems , and heterogeneous catalysis . Their work combines advanced mathematics, machine learning , and uncertainty analysis to optimize chemical processes before physical implementation. Recent publications emphasize dynamic system optimization under uncertainty, multiscale simulation , and CO2 conversion technologies . Key methodologies include probabilistic uncertainty quantification and economic predictive control . Scientific Awards : 1997: First Place, XII National Creativity Contest 1998: Best Student Award, Instituto Tecnologico de Orizaba 1999: Third Place, XIV National Creativity Contest 2000: J.M. Smith Award for Best MASc Student He has collaborated with international institutions like CONACyT-Mexico, China Scholarship Council, and Universidad de Los Andes. His teaching includes graduate courses in process control, optimization, and computer-aided design.
Dwight Houweling is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering at Polytechnique Montréal . His expertise focuses on environmental engineering and wastewater treatment , particularly in nutrient removal, biological processes, and modeling. B.Sc. in Civil Engineering (Queen’s University) Ph.D. in Civil Engineering (Polytechnique Montréal) Industrial Postdoctoral Fellow at EnviroSim Assoc. Ltd. Research interests include municipal/industrial wastewater treatment , phosphorus/nitrogen removal , biofilm systems , mechanistic modeling , and sludge densification . His work bridges activated sludge optimization , membrane-aerated biofilms , and green wastewater solutions . Recent publications emphasize modeling frameworks for nature-based solutions , biofilm technology in retrofitting plants , and sludge characterization in lagoons . He collaborates with institutions like EnviroSim Assoc. Ltd. and contributes to the Laboratoire de génie de l'environnement (LGE) at Polytechnique Montréal.
Arturo Macchi is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Engineering. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia, and MASc and B.Eng. degrees from the École Polytechnique de Montréal. His research focuses on multiphase reactor engineering, particularly fluidized bed systems, gas hydrates, microreactors, and CO₂ capture technologies. Collaborations include institutions like CanmetEnergy-Ottawa, NRC-ICPCE, and industry partners such as Syncrude Canada Ltd. and Lonza Inc. Key research areas include high-pressure multiphase reactors, CO₂ capture via dual fluidized beds, and microreactor design for pharmaceutical applications. His work integrates computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling with experimental validation to address challenges in energy efficiency, process intensification, and sustainable energy storage. Recent projects explore calcium looping processes for thermochemical storage and oxy-fuel combustion technologies. Publications highlight advancements in fluidization dynamics, bubble column hydrodynamics, and scale-up methodologies for industrial hydroprocessors. His contributions span both fundamental and applied research, bridging academic insights with industrial applications in petrochemical, environmental, and pharmaceutical sectors.
Naoko Ellis is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of British Columbia, Faculty of Applied Science. Her work bridges advanced multiphase reaction engineering with pressing sustainability challenges, focusing on fluidized-bed technologies for CO₂ capture, biomass valorisation, and clean energy production. Research Interests Multiphase reaction engineering & fluidized beds CO₂ capture via calcium looping and chemical looping combustion Biomass gasification, pyrolysis, and tar mitigation Bio-oil upgrading and biochar engineering for environmental applications Engineering education innovation for sustainability literacy Recent publications (2020-2024) reveal an integrated approach combining rigorous reactor modeling, novel catalyst development, and educational scholarship. Energy and environmental engineering dominate the portfolio, with emerging use of machine-learning tools for process optimisation and extensive exploration of biochar and bauxite-residue valorisation. Scientific Recognition Guest editor for memorial special issues honouring Prof. John R. Grace (Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, Powder Technology, 2023-2024) Invited prefatory contributions on chemical engineering education (Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, 2024) Advising & Grant Landscape No specific student names or funding details were provided in the supplied text; however, the breadth of collaborative publications and education-focused papers indicates active supervision of graduate researchers and leadership in curriculum-development grants. Labs & Teams Operates within the multiphase reaction engineering laboratory environment at UBC Chemical and Biological Engineering, leveraging pilot-scale fluidized-bed facilities and advanced analytical instrumentation for thermochemical conversion studies.
David Lobb is a Professor in the Department of Soil Science at the University of Manitoba, affiliated with the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences. His research focuses on biophysical processes within landscapes, particularly soil movement by tillage and tillage erosion, with international recognition for advancements in experimental methods and modeling. PhD in Soil Science, University of Guelph MSc in Soil Science, University of Guelph BSc in Biophysical Systems, University of Toronto Research Interests: Soil Erosion and Conservation , Tillage Systems , Sediment Fingerprinting , Wetland Carbon Dynamics , and Precision Agriculture . His work addresses soil redistribution, agri-environmental indicators, and soil-landscape variability. Recent articles highlight his expertise in soil erosion mechanisms, carbon sequestration in wetlands, and innovative measurement techniques using radiometric methods and smartphone technology. Collaborations with international organizations like the UN FAO, IAEA, and OECD underscore his global impact.
Dr. Heather Trajano is a faculty member in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Applied Science. Her research focuses on sustainable biomass fractionation and conversion processes, aiming to maximize economic and environmental benefits through innovative biorefining strategies. Research Interests: Fundamentals of biomass deconstruction to separate carbohydrates from lignin Recovery and purification of extractives from biomass Heterogeneous catalysis for chemical production Integration of biorefining opportunities with existing forestry operations Utilization of waste streams and by-products for sustainable processes Her work emphasizes the development of processes that complement traditional forestry operations by transforming waste materials into valuable chemicals and fuels. This research spans fundamental studies of biomass deconstruction mechanisms to applied process optimization using advanced modeling techniques including machine learning approaches. Research Trends: Dr. Trajano's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on xylan and hemicellulose processing from birch and softwood sources, with particular attention to kinetic modeling of hydrolysis processes. Her work integrates experimental studies with computational modeling, including machine learning applications for yield prediction. The research also encompasses lignin valorization through depolymerization and upgrading of pyrolysis oils, cellulose hydrolysis optimization, and the development of sustainable catalytic processes for biomass conversion. Contact Information: Email: heather.trajano@ubc.ca
Philippe Gachon is a Professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Quebec at Montreal (UQAM), Director of the ESCER Research Centre, and leader of the Quebec InterSectoral Flooding Network (RIISQ). He specializes in hydro-climatology and climate risk assessment, with extensive experience at Environment Canada and as a Strategic Research Chair holder on Hydrometeorological Risks Related to Climate Change. His research examines climate change impacts on extreme weather events including floods, droughts, and heat waves. Recent work focuses on improving risk identification and adaptation strategies through intersectoral approaches. Key research themes include: Regional climate modeling and validation Hydro-meteorological hazard intensification Systemic risk assessment Community-scale resilience building Climate services development His recent publications demonstrate advanced statistical approaches for modeling non-stationary flood regimes, evaluating wildfire risks under climate change, and quantifying vector-borne disease transmission. Collaborative projects with 16 universities address physical climate risks and socioeconomic vulnerabilities across Quebec.
Rafael Santos is an Associate Professor in Environmental Engineering at the University of Guelph's School of Engineering since 2017. He holds a PhD from KU Leuven (Belgium) and is a registered Professional Engineer of Ontario. Research focuses on CO 2 capture/utilization, solid waste valorization, environmental remediation, and process intensification Professional affiliations include PEO, ACS, AWMA, CSChE, RSC, and AIChE Particle Technology Forum Research Themes: Transforming industrial/agricultural wastes into carbon sinks and valuable products Developing energy-efficient reactor technologies (ultrasound, tubular reactors, hot-stage processing) Commercialization through GeoRewind™ with Twitter/Instagram presence Applying enhanced rock weathering to Southern Ontario agriculture and mining Scientific Recognition : NSERC Discovery Grant & Launch Supplement (2019-2024) Scialog Fellow (2020-present) Editorial roles in 4 journals He supervises 23 graduate students/visitors via projects spanning carbon capture, waste valorization, reactor design, and environmental monitoring. Teaching includes core courses like Fluid Mechanics and specialized graduate programs in Geochemical Modeling.
Dr. Karthik Akkiraju serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Materials Engineering within UBC's Faculty of Applied Science, maintaining an active research program at the intersection of materials science and socio-environmental systems. His office (FF 011) and contact email (karthik.akkiraju@ubc.ca) reflect his current institutional affiliation. His research pioneers a techno-social paradigm for planetary health through three synergistic foci: (1) Establishing material poverty benchmarks using household survey data to identify resource-deprived communities; (2) Quantifying socio-environmental impacts across material supply chains; (3) Integrating well-being metrics into heterogeneous catalyst design frameworks. This work fundamentally reimagines materials engineering by centering human well-being within ecological boundaries, developing design methodologies that balance material requirements with equitable environmental constraints. Analysis of his publication trajectory reveals consistent interdisciplinary innovation spanning computational catalysis, environmental policy, and social metrics. His recent work demonstrates particular strength in perovskite catalyst engineering for sustainable chemistry and novel methodologies for spatial well-being assessment, reflecting a unique fusion of traditional materials science with computational social science. Dr. Akkiraju directs the Sustainable Materials Lab (SMAL), where his team develops frameworks connecting material consumption patterns to human development outcomes, creating pathways for resource allocation that simultaneously address poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability.
Professor George Nakhla holds the Salamander Chair in Environmental Engineering at the Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Western University. With a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, his career spans decades of groundbreaking research in biological wastewater treatment and bioremediation. Education: Ph.D. (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1989), M.Sc. (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1987), B.Sc. (University of Khartoum, 1983) His research focuses on biological nutrient removal , anaerobic digestion , and advanced oxidation processes , with recent work exploring vacuum-assisted fermentation systems, micro-aeration for sulfide control, and biochar-enabled co-digestion technologies. Collaborative projects include: Development of the first Communal Biological Nutrient Removal System in Ontario Patented fluidized bed nutrient removal processes Membrane bioreactor systems for biological nutrient removal Investigation of lignin accumulation impacts in cattle manure digesters Optimization of hydrogen production from industrial wastes Dr. Nakhla's work has expanded to include process modeling , bioreactor design , and micropollutant management , with significant contributions to understanding the interplay between operational parameters and microbial ecology in wastewater systems.
