My Hedhammar is Professor in Biotechnology at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developing innovative methods for tissue engineering using recombinant spider silk. Her laboratory creates three-dimensional tissue models that mimic natural cellular environments. Research focuses on spider silk-derived biomaterials that serve as scaffolds for cell cultivation, enabling the creation of complex tissue structures including vascularized models. Applications include cancer tumor modeling and diabetes treatment through pancreatic islet transplantation. Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate advancements in silk functionalization, cryopreservation techniques, and disease-specific models. Work consistently bridges biomaterial science with clinical applications in regenerative medicine and drug development.
Mark Peifer is the Michael Hooker Distinguished Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He holds affiliations with the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, and Curriculum in Neurobiology. His research focuses on cell adhesion, cytoskeletal regulation, and Wnt signaling in development and cancer. Using Drosophila as a model system, his lab explores how these processes regulate epithelial tissue architecture and cancer progression. Key projects include studying APC's role in Wnt signaling and cytoskeletal dynamics, and investigating Abl kinase's coordination of adhesion and actin dynamics. The lab employs advanced microscopy, genetic tools, and biochemistry to dissect these mechanisms. Peifer is also committed to promoting diversity in STEM and active learning in education through initiatives like the PALM Network.
Nicholas A. Kurniawan is an Associate Professor in the Soft Tissue Engineering and Mechanobiology group at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). He is also a member of the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS). His research focuses on understanding cellular behavior in different physical environments through the creation of precisely controlled biomimetic cellular environments. He received his PhD in 2012 from the National University of Singapore, where he studied the role of matrix viscoelasticity in cancer metastasis. Following this, he conducted postdoctoral research as a Marie Curie Fellow at AMOLF in Amsterdam, investigating hierarchical structure-property relations in the cytoskeleton and extracellular matrices. In 2015, he joined TU/e to establish his research group. Dr. Kurniawan's research is highly interdisciplinary, spanning biophysics, cell biology, protein polymers, biomechanics, and soft matter. His work centers on creating biomimetic cellular environments at multiple scales—from 2D micropatterns to 3D extracellular matrices and bioreactors—where physical and mechanical cues to cells can be precisely controlled. These in vitro platforms enable systematic breakdown of the origins of basic cellular behavior, such as orientation, migration, and differentiation. The overarching goal is to apply these insights to direct cell response in vivo, for example to promote tissue regeneration or slow down disease progression. His fingerprint includes significant contributions to Tissue Engineering (100%), Fibroblast research (70%), Rigidity studies (63%), Multiscale Engineering (63%), Cell Function (55%), Biological Tissue Engineering (52%), Microenvironments (49%), and In Vitro studies (46%). His recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on cellular mechanobiology, particularly how substrate properties (stiffness, topography, adhesion) influence fibroblast behavior. There is growing emphasis on dynamic and photoresponsive biomaterials, organoid engineering, and computational approaches to tissue analysis. His work shows a clear trajectory toward increasingly sophisticated control of cellular microenvironments and deeper understanding of how physical cues translate to cellular responses. ERC Starting Grant for 'Control cell communication and tissue regeneration' (2019) Dr. Kurniawan has supervised 34 students and research projects. He led the 'Advaessel' research project (2020-2021) focused on advanced materials processing for regenerating blood vessels. His research is supported by significant funding that enables cutting-edge investigations into cellular mechanobiology and tissue engineering. The Soft Tissue Engineering and Mechanobiology group employs a highly collaborative approach, working with researchers across disciplines to develop biomimetic cellular environments that bridge fundamental science with clinical applications in regenerative medicine. The research group maintains state-of-the-art facilities for biomaterial fabrication, cell culture, and mechanical characterization. They employ advanced techniques including UV-photopatterning, two-photon printing, and dynamic substrate topographies to create precisely controlled cellular microenvironments. Their work bridges fundamental cell biology with translational applications in cardiovascular tissue regeneration and disease modeling.
Pim America is a Researcher affiliated with the LaserLaB - Molecular Biophysics group at the Faculty of Science , VU Amsterdam. Their work focuses on molecular biophysics, transcription regulation, and bacterial gene expression dynamics. Research interests include: Transcriptional mechanisms in E. coli systems RNA polymerase-DNA interactions Open-complex formation dynamics Temperature-dependent transcription regulation Collaborations span multiple institutions, including contributions to a 2022 publication in Nucleic Acids Research .
Dr. Greg Ngo is a Research Fellow at Cardiff University's School of Medicine, focusing on genome stability and DNA repair mechanisms. His research explores R-loop formation at DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and its impact on neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD. Funded by a Wellcome Trust Career Development Award, his lab investigates the molecular links between R-loops, genome instability, and disease pathogenesis. Ngo’s multidisciplinary approach combines genetics, biochemistry, and neuroscience techniques, including CRISPR, next-generation sequencing, and induced pluripotent stem cell technologies. He has contributed significantly to understanding DNA repair pathways in yeast, archaea, and human cells. Key achievements include discovering R-loop roles in DSB repair and demonstrating PARP inhibitors' efficacy in targeting telomere-driven cancer progression. Education and career highlights include a D.Phil. from the University of Oxford under Prof. Ian Hickson, postdoctoral work at Newcastle University with Prof. David Lydall, and research collaborations at Cardiff University with Prof. Duncan Baird. His lab currently includes Dr. Siamak Kamranvar and PhD student Angelos Damo. Ngo’s work bridges fundamental research with translational applications in cancer therapy and neurodevelopmental disorder mechanisms. Research interests span DNA repair mechanisms, R-loop biology, telomere dysfunction, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Recent studies highlight UPF1’s role in R-loop-mediated DNA repair and its implications for intellectual disability and autism. His articles analyze genetic interactions, DNA damage responses, and homologous recombination pathways, with a focus on translating mechanistic insights into clinical contexts. Awards: Wellcome Trust Career Development Award (2023) Labs/Teams: R-loops & Genome Stability Lab at Cardiff University Future Work: Investigating R-loop dynamics in neurodevelopmental disorders using patient-derived iPSCs and advanced genomic tools.
Gavin Knott is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Monash University, leading the Knott Lab within the Biomedicine Discovery Institute. His research focuses on RNA biology, CRISPR-Cas systems, and nucleic acid modification machinery. He obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Western Australia, followed by postdoctoral work at the University of California, Berkeley under Nobel laureate Jennifer Doudna. His lab employs multidisciplinary approaches spanning computational biology, biochemistry, and structural biology to develop next-generation biotech tools for diagnostics and therapeutics. Education: Ph.D. in Biochemistry (University of Western Australia, 2016) External Positions: Postdoctoral Fellow at UC Berkeley (2016–2021) Research interests include understanding RNA-binding proteins, CRISPR immune systems in microbes, and structural biology of nucleic acid-modifying enzymes. Key projects include developing CRISPR-based diagnostic tools (e.g., Cas13a for SARS-CoV-2 detection) and creating novel RNA manufacturing enzymes. Knott has secured grants like the NHMRC Investigator Grant (2020) and awards including the ASBMB Boomerang Award (2019). Recent articles highlight advancements in cryo-EM techniques, CRISPR enzyme classification (CasPEDIA database), and structural insights into CRISPR-Cas9 mechanisms. His team collaborates on initiatives like the Victorian Pre-clinical mRNA Innovation Incubator (VPMII), advancing RNA therapeutics. Scientific Awards: Sir Keith Murdoch Fellowship (2018) NHMRC Investigator Grant (2020) ASBMB Boomerang Award (2019) Lorne Protein Anders Young Investigator Award (2019) Knott actively contributes to academic activities, including organizing the CRISPR Conference 2025 and serving as a Guest Editor for Methods . His lab’s work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and innovation.
Professor Lei Lei is a faculty member at the University of New England's Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering since 2010. He specializes in teaching undergraduate courses such as Cell and Molecular Biology and Developmental Neurobiology, earning the Debra J. Summers Memorial Award for Teaching Excellence in 2018. His research focuses on two core areas: transcriptional regulation in neural development and the evolutionary origins of life and genetic code. Lei holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Michigan State University (1998) and a B.S. in Biology from Wuhan University (1991). He completed postdoctoral training in Developmental Biology at UT Southwestern Medical Center. His work has been supported by grants including NIH R01 awards and the COBRE interdisciplinary center for Pain and Sensory Function studies. Lei’s research integrates evolutionary biology with molecular mechanisms, exploring how genetic code evolution intersects with modern developmental biology. His lab investigates transcriptional networks controlling sensory neuron development and axon regeneration, with a focus on Sox11 and Klf7 transcription factors. He has presented at major conferences like the Society for Developmental Biology and the Gordon Research Conference on Neurotrophic Factors. Grants: NIH R01 (2020), COBRE P20GM103643 (2015), and multiple institutional partnerships. Labs/Teams: Collaborates across institutions including Mayo Clinic Arizona and Barrow Neurological Institute. Future Work: Expanding studies on genetic code evolution and neurotrophic factor pathways in chronic pain.
Jiaqi Su is affiliated with ETH Zürich as part of the Professorship for Food and Soft Materials Science. Their research focuses on the development of advanced materials for food systems, including gels, emulsions, and packaging solutions. The position emphasizes applied and fundamental studies in biomaterials and soft matter. Research interests include: Polysaccharide-protein complexation mechanisms Encapsulation strategies for bioactive compounds (e.g., curcumin, DHA) Thermal and structural stability of food systems Catalytic materials derived from amyloid fibrils Biodegradable food packaging alternatives High-pressure processing effects on emulsions Recent publications (2025–2023) highlight work in food science and materials science, particularly in emulsion stabilization, gel formation, and catalytic systems for CO2 conversion. Their studies often combine experimental methods with theoretical modeling to optimize material performance. No scientific awards or grants are explicitly mentioned. They currently have no listed advisees/PhD/Master’s students.
Professor Patrick Hussey is a faculty member at Durham University's Department of Biosciences, School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences. He holds the rank of Professor and has served in leadership roles including Head of the School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences (2010-2013), Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Science) (2014-2019), and former President of the Society of Experimental Biology (2015-2017). His research focuses on plant cytoskeleton dynamics, membrane interactions, and autophagy mechanisms. He is also a visiting professor at the University of Lisbon, Huazhong Agricultural University, and Charles University, Prague. Education: BSc in Biochemistry, University of Liverpool PhD in Biology, University of Kent at Canterbury (in association with the John Innes Centre, Norwich) Research Interests: Professor Hussey's work centers on the structure and function of the plant cytoskeleton, particularly actin and microtubule interactions with membranes. He investigates membrane contact sites (ER-PM, ER-mitochondrial), autophagy regulation, herbicide resistance mechanisms, and signaling pathways. His lab pioneered the Durham Centre for Bioimaging Technology, emphasizing advanced microscopy techniques in plant cell biology. Publications Trends: His recent work emphasizes autophagy mechanisms in plant cells, ER-membrane contact site functions, and the role of actin in cytokinesis. Key themes include mitophagy regulation, protein interactions at membrane contacts, and cytoskeletal dynamics during developmental processes. Awards & Roles: Elected to the Royal Society of Biology Council (2016) Former Trustee of Newcastle's Centre for Life (2014-2019) Editorial board member of Current Biology Grants & Labs: He leads research on plant cytoskeletal networks and membrane interactions, supported by grants from the BBSRC and ANR. His team collaborates internationally, focusing on imaging technology and plant stress response mechanisms.
Prof. Dr. Regina C. Betz is a Professor at the University of Bonn's Institute of Human Genetics. Her research program identifies and characterizes genes responsible for monogenic and multifactorial skin and hair disorders, with particular focus on alopecia and hair growth abnormalities. Key research objectives: Identification of novel genes for hair loss disorders Molecular physiology of hair growth processes Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying dermatological conditions Translational applications for genetic skin disorders Her team has identified over 10 novel genes for monogenic hair disorders and 14 gene loci for alopecia areata, contributing to therapeutic target discovery. Recent publications include genome-wide association studies in alopecia and mutation analyses in hair shaft formation disorders.
Sarah Heilshorn is the Rickey/Nielsen Professor in the School of Engineering at Stanford University, with courtesy appointments in Bioengineering and Chemical Engineering. She directs the Geballe Laboratory for Advanced Materials (GLAM), focusing on biomaterials for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Her research explores engineered proteins, microfluidics, and hydrogels to address challenges in stem cell differentiation, spinal cord regeneration, and cell transplantation. Education: PhD (2004), MS (2000), and BS (1998) in Chemical Engineering from Caltech and Georgia Tech. Research Interests: Biomaterials design, 3D bioprinting, organoid culture, and hydrogel development for regenerative applications. Key projects include injectable materials for stem cell therapies, bio-orthogonal hydrogels, and microfluidic devices for cell migration studies. Lab & Collaborations: The Heilshorn Lab emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and diversity, with projects spanning materials science, bioengineering, and cell biology. Notable work includes bioprinting vascular networks, corneal regeneration, and liver disease modeling using organoids. Awards & Funding: Recipient of NIH New Innovator Award, National Academies grants, and CIRM funding. Research supported by multiple federal and private grants. Advising & Mentorship: Advised over 80 graduate students, postdocs, and researchers, many now leading roles in academia and industry. Active in promoting equity and inclusion in STEM.
Martin Humphries is a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Manchester, leading the Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine. His research focuses on stromal rigidity-driven pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, integrin signaling, and extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics. He serves on the Academy of Medical Sciences as a former Vice-President (2012–2017) and contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals targeting health and well-being. Expertise: Integrin-mediated adhesion, ECM mechanics, cancer biology Key Projects: BHF 4-Year PhD Studentship Award (2017–2021) His research explores how ECM rigidity influences tumor progression via mechanosensing pathways, with implications for therapies targeting force-sensing mechanisms. Recent work includes studies on Nrf2-mediated endothelial detachment and lineage plasticity in small cell lung cancer. Awards: Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences (FMedSci) He oversees 22 supervised works and collaborates globally, publishing 269 articles. Datasets include proteomic analyses of adhesion complexes and pancreatic ductal cells. His lab develops novel methods to study adhesion nexus signaling in 3D organoid models.
Kazuhito Toyooka is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neurobiology & Anatomy at Drexel University College of Medicine. His research focuses on translational studies for neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), epilepsy, and Parkinson's disease (PD). He employs peptide therapy, CRISPR gene editing, and 14-3-3 modifiers to develop treatments using mouse models and patient-derived hiPSCs. His lab investigates gene functions in axon/dendrite growth, synapse formation, and neurobehavioral outcomes. Education: PhD in Immunology from Osaka University, Japan. Languages spoken: Japanese. Research Themes: Peptide therapy and CRISPR for ASD and PD 17p13.3 microdeletion/duplication syndromes 14-3-3 protein roles in epilepsy and neurodegeneration ADNP protein’s role in neuronal development Key Publications (2024-2018): Focus on neuronal morphogenesis methods, ADNP-14-3-3 interactions, and 14-3-3 signaling in neurodevelopmental disorders. Lab Personnel: Includes undergraduate/graduate students, MD/PhD trainees, and postdoctoral fellows working on ASD, PD, and 14-3-3 protein research.
Dr. Olga Kuksenok is an Associate Professor in the Materials Science and Engineering Department at Clemson University, leading the Kuksenok Research Group. She holds a PhD in Physics and Mathematics from the Institute of Physics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (1997), and a B.S. in Physics from Kiev State University (1991). Her research focuses on computational design of advanced polymer-based materials, including biomimetic systems, responsive gels, and polymer blends. Key projects involve mesoscale modeling of polymer degradation, nanogel dynamics, and smart materials for biomedical and engineering applications. Education: Ph.D., Physics and Mathematics, Institute of Physics (1997) B.S., Physics, Kiev State University (1991) Affiliations: Director of Graduate Program, Clemson MSE Department Member of NSF Center for Polymers for a Circular Economy (PCE) Her work explores computational modeling of polymer networks (e.g., hydrogels, bottlebrushes), degradation mechanisms, and stimuli-responsive materials. Recent studies include polyethylene mimics, oil-repellent boundaries, and photoreactive systems. She advises graduate and undergraduate researchers in computational methods (LAMMPS, COMSOL) and polymer synthesis. Publications highlight contributions to polymer degradation dynamics, nanogel interfacial behavior, and bioinspired materials. Her group collaborates with industry and academia on NSF-funded projects, emphasizing sustainability and circular economy principles.
Elliott Abrams is an Associate Professor of Biology at Purchase College, School of Natural and Social Sciences. He holds a BA in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Rutgers University and a PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. His postdoctoral research at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine focused on nuclear envelope fusion in early embryogenesis, leading to the discovery of Brambleberry protein. His research interests include vertebrate development, maternal-effect mechanisms in zebrafish, and evolutionary conservation of nuclear envelope processes in Tetrahymena thermophila. He employs CRISPR/Cas9 and forward genetics approaches to study developmental pathways. Teaching: Developmental Biology Lecture/Lab (BIO3170/3171), Cell Biology (BIO3530), Molecular Biology (BIO4620), and Biology Program Seminar (BIO2890). Office hours are Monday and Thursday 1-2 PM, or by appointment. His lab is located in Room 2054 of the Natural Sciences Building. Education: BA, Rutgers University; PhD, Johns Hopkins University Research Themes: Early vertebrate development, nuclear envelope dynamics, zebrafish genetics Key contributions include identifying maternal regulators of embryogenesis and elucidating Brambleberry's role in nuclear assembly. His work bridges vertebrate and protozoan systems, exploring conserved mechanisms across evolution.
