Marleny Aranda Saldana, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Sciences at the University of Alberta, affiliated with the Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences. She holds the 2023-2024 Killam Annual Professorship Award and has been recognized for her contributions to graduate mentorship and international academic leadership. Her PhD (Process Engineering, UNICAMP) included research at Technical University of Hamburg-Harburg (Germany) and Delft University of Technology (Netherlands). Her research focuses on Emerging processing technologies (supercritical fluids, ultrasound, high-pressure systems) Unit operations for food/by-product valorization (extraction, fractionation, reaction engineering) Mathematical modeling of solubility and reaction kinetics Recent articles highlight innovations in subcritical water hydrolysis , supercritical CO₂ aerogels , and ultrasound-assisted extraction . Collaborations span institutions in Japan, Germany, the Netherlands, and Brazil. She teaches advanced courses in food engineering and preservation, including AFNS 554 (Unit Operations in Food Preservation) and NU FS 283 (Introduction to Food Engineering). Awards : McCalla Professorship (2017), Gold College Leadership Program (2015), FAPESP Scholarship (2002) Key Research Crops : barley, flax, wheat, lentils, peas, cocoa beans Lab Focus : SCFHPPL (Sub/Supercritical Fluid and High Pressure Processing Laboratory)
Peter Stephensen Lübeck is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Bioscience at Aalborg University, Faculty of Engineering and Science. His work bridges biotechnology, food science, and sustainable resource utilization, with a strong focus on biorefinery systems and fungal-based solutions for future food and environmental challenges. Research Interests: Biorefinery Concepts: Utilizing membrane filtration and bioprocessing to extract high-value proteins from green biomass such as clover grass and lucerne. Fungal Cell Factories: Engineering fungi like Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma reesei for sustainable production of food ingredients, biochemicals, and bioactive compounds. Molecular Biology: Applying CRISPR-Cas9 and genomic tools for strain improvement and metabolic pathway optimization. Sustainable Food Systems: Developing climate-friendly food technologies through precision fermentation and upcycling of organic side-streams. Recent Research Trends: His recent publications (2020–2025) reflect a strong shift toward sustainable food innovation, particularly in extracting functional proteins from underutilized green biomass using membrane technology. He is also deeply involved in fungal biotechnology for alternative protein production, emphasizing circular economy principles. Projects like Græs4Food, SvampeMad, and UPCYFUN highlight his interdisciplinary approach integrating food science, environmental engineering, and industrial biotechnology. Scientific Contributions: Active participant in 12 major research projects, including ongoing initiatives funded through 2029. Contributor to 78 research outputs, including journal articles, posters, patents, and datasets. Public engagement through 9 media appearances discussing green transition, food innovation, and climate impact. Advising and Grants: Peter Stephensen Lübeck participates in PhD supervision and collaborates extensively across academic and industrial partners. He is involved in multiple large-scale, externally funded projects focused on sustainable food production and biorefining, such as HfBFood and BioFerment, indicating strong grant acquisition and collaborative leadership. While specific student names are not listed, his involvement in PhD supervision confirms mentoring activities. Laboratories and Research Teams: He works within the Bioresources and Process Engineering research group at Aalborg University, collaborating closely with Professor Mette Lübeck. His work spans interdisciplinary teams involving food scientists, engineers, molecular biologists, and industrial partners, particularly in projects related to fungal fermentation, protein recovery, and green biotechnology.
Joe Gallagher is a Professor at the Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS) at Aberystwyth University. His research focuses on carbohydrate metabolism in grasses like Miscanthus and perennial ryegrass, aiming to improve crop performance, biorefining processes, and feedstock applications for biofuels and industrial uses. He leads externally funded projects related to biomass conversion, pretreatment technologies, and sustainable biorefineries. Current projects include Miscanthus to Xylo-oligosaccharides and Biocarbon (MAXFEED) (2024-2026) and Alcohol-Pilot Phase with Diageo (2024). Past projects involved OPTOMS (2018-2020), DoD Protein Glue (2018-2019), and NPIF Innovation Training (2019-2021). His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals through contributions to circular economies, food security, and bioenergy. Collaborations include UK Research and Innovation , Innovate UK , and Algaen (USA) . Recent publications demonstrate expertise in: Steam explosion and refining of plant biomass Whey protein sensory profiling Transgenic lignin modification Solid-state fermentation for food waste valorisation He contributes to public engagement through media appearances, including Aberystwyth University press coverage (2024) and Rural Futures Hub discussions (2023).
Alfredo Ferreira is an Associate Professor at the Department of Computer Engineering of Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, and a researcher at INESC-ID Lisboa. His research focuses on Computer Graphics, Human-Computer Interaction, Immersive Analytics, 3D Shape Analysis and Retrieval, and Extended Reality. Education: PhD in Information Systems and Computer Science, Technical University of Lisbon, 2009 MSc in Information Systems and Computer Science, Technical University of Lisbon, 2005 Research Interests: His expertise spans Computer Graphics , Human-Computer Interaction , and Immersive Analytics . He explores natural interfaces, immersive environments, 3D object retrieval, and extended reality applications in domains like civil engineering and facilities management. Publications: He has authored over 40 peer-reviewed conference papers and 15 journal articles, with recent works focusing on immersive technologies for dam monitoring, extended reality in construction, and sketch-based 3D modeling. Teaching: Information Visualization Usability and Information Systems Web Computation Human-Computer Interaction Computer Graphics Supervision: He has supervised more than 30 MSc students, 2 PhD candidates, and 1 post-doc researcher. Professional Memberships: Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Eurographics
Dr. Venkatesh Meda is a Professor and Graduate Chair of Biological Engineering in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan. He holds adjunct roles at institutions like QUT, Australia, and is affiliated with the Global Institute for Food Security and the Global Water Security Institute. His research focuses on post-harvest processing, bioproducts, and sustainable technologies, with emphasis on novel microwave and electrostatic applications for food and biomaterials. Dr. Meda has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles, supervised numerous students, and pioneered innovations in food engineering and biofuel production. He has received prestigious awards, including CSBE Fellow and SES Educator of the Year. Current projects include microwave-assisted lentil processing, AI-driven ingredient manufacturing, and electrostatic fractionation of plant components. Education: PhD (Bioresource Engineering, McGill University, 2002); MBA (Cape Breton University, 2017). He is a registered Professional Engineer (APEGS) with over two decades of industry-academia collaborations spanning Canada, India, and Europe. Research interests span post-harvest technologies, bioprocessing, and circular economy strategies. Recent work explores tribo-electrostatic separation for plant-based ingredients and microwave-assisted extraction systems. His lab, equipped with state-of-the-art electromagnetic energy processing tools, drives global food security solutions through sustainable innovation. Awards include CSBE-SCGAB John Clark Award (2013), Glenn Downing Award (2018), and EIC-Fellow (2023). Grant-funded projects address biofuel pelletization, cyanogenic toxin reduction, and aquafaba functionalization. He actively collaborates with international partners to translate research into industrial applications. Labs/Teams: 'Electro-magnetic Energy Applications' lab (microwave bio-processing and sensing); affiliated with cross-disciplinary initiatives like the Global Water Security Institute.
Paulo Nova is a Researcher at the Centre for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry (CBQF) of the Catholic University of Portugal, specializing in marine biotechnology and bioactive compound extraction from algae for therapeutic and food applications. His work bridges food science and cancer research through innovative analysis of marine resources. His academic credentials include: PhD in Algae Antioxidant and Polysaccharide Rich Derived Extracts from Fucus Vesiculosus and Porphyra Dioica as Potential Therapeutic Strategies for Pancreatic Cancer from Universidade Católica Portuguesa Master in Hortas públicas, biológicas e urbanas : que efeito nos comportamentos de saúde, na qualidade de vida e nas práticas ambientais? from Universidade Católica Portuguesa (awarded April 10, 2017) Dr. Nova's research centers on Food Science and Marine Biotechnology, with primary focus on antioxidant capacity, cytotoxicity, and functional ingredient development from macroalgae. His fingerprint analysis reveals dominant expertise in Bioactive Compounds (74%), Antioxidant Capacity (79%), and Hydrolysate applications (67%), particularly using Fucus vesiculosus and Porphyra dioica species. Current investigations explore therapeutic strategies for pancreatic cancer through algal polysaccharides while developing sustainable food products. Analysis of his 38 research outputs shows consistent publication growth since 2017, with recent emphasis on chemical characterization of enzymatic algal extracts and functional food development. The 2024 publications demonstrate methodological refinement in solvent extraction techniques and expanded applications in plant-based dairy alternatives, reflecting industry-relevant translation of marine biotechnology research. His scientific recognition includes: 1st Place on Pitch Presentation (December 18, 2023) 1st Place on Project Pitch presentations (November 10, 2023) NEWFOOD 2020 1st prize award Dr. Nova actively contributes to academic knowledge dissemination through conference presentations and event organization, including the 2023 "Curso avançado em Bioativos de Algas" (Advanced Course on Algae Bioactives). His collaborative network spans mussel waste valorization and microalgae hydrolysate applications, demonstrating strong industry-academia partnerships in Portugal's marine biotechnology sector. As a core member of CBQF, he advances the center's mission in fine chemistry through marine resource innovation, particularly in developing antioxidant-rich extracts for functional foods and cancer therapeutics. His current work integrates enzymatic processing with cytotoxicity screening to establish structure-activity relationships in algal bioactives.
Dmitry Tolmachev is a Research Fellow at Aalto University's Chemistry and Materials school, specializing in molecular dynamics simulations and soft materials modeling. Current affiliation: Aalto University (School of Chemistry and Materials) Academic rank: Research Fellow Primary research focus: Cellulose-based materials, polyelectrolyte systems, and molecular interactions His research spans multiple disciplines including: Soft Materials Modeling - Simulating lignin-carbohydrate complex adsorption and polyelectrolyte complex behavior Cellulose Nanotechnology - Investigating cellulose mineralization and nanocrystal preparation using green solvents Biopolymer Systems - Studying protein solvation, silk-like protein behavior, and amino acid interactions Electrochemical Effects - Analyzing ion-specific impacts on polyelectrolyte systems and solvent behavior Scientific contributions include: 15+ publications on molecular simulations of cellulose systems Key focus on lignin-carbohydrate interactions and polyelectrolyte complex dynamics Recent work on solvent-responsive material behavior and bio-inspired condensate design
Tao Dong serves as a Researcher IV in Chemical Engineering at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), operating within the Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center and the Catalytic Carbon Transformation and Scale-Up Center. He has maintained continuous employment at NREL since 2013, progressing from Postdoctoral Researcher to his current senior research position. His academic foundation includes: PhD in Bio-Systems Engineering from Washington State University Master of Science in Food Chemistry from Jiangnan University Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology from Jiangnan University Dong's research centers on microbial biomass characterization, fractionation, and conversion processes, with specialized expertise in biofuel production, catalytic conversion, and techno-economic analysis of biomass systems. His work particularly emphasizes microalgal feedstocks for biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuels, integrating extraction, separation, and catalytic refinement methodologies to optimize bioresource utilization. Analysis of his 2024-2025 publications reveals a concentrated focus on microalgae valorization through thermal, biological, and catalytic approaches. Key themes include lipid conversion from proteins, surfactant development from phytol byproducts, pretreatment optimization for fuel co-production, and advanced lipidomics for aviation biofuels. These works demonstrate systematic efforts to enhance process efficiency, scalability, and economic viability in algal biorefining. As an integral member of NREL's Catalytic Carbon Transformation and Scale-Up Center, Dong contributes to advancing industrial-scale catalytic processes for renewable fuel production. His research portfolio spans 46 outputs including patents and peer-reviewed articles, reflecting sustained contributions to bioenergy science and engineering.
Prof. Andrew Livingston is a Professor of Chemical Engineering and Vice Principal for Research and Innovation at Queen Mary University of London. He leads the LivingstonLab, focusing on molecular separations and membrane technologies for pharmaceuticals and sustainable manufacturing. His research integrates membrane innovation with chemical synthesis, particularly in precision polymers and biopharmaceuticals. Livingston holds prestigious fellowships including the Royal Society and Royal Academy of Engineering. He has pioneered technologies commercialized via Exactmer Limited, addressing challenges in oligonucleotide and peptide manufacturing. Education BEng(Hons) in Chemical Engineering, University of Canterbury, New Zealand MSc in Economics, [Institution Unspecified] PhD in Chemical Engineering, University of Cambridge, UK Research Interests His work centers on membrane-based molecular separations in solvent systems, precision polymer synthesis (e.g., oligonucleotides, PEGs), and sustainable chemical processes . Innovations include the Nanostar Sieving platform for exact polymer manufacturing and OSN membrane technologies. Current projects address carbon footprint reduction in liquid fuels and biopharmaceutical production. Grants & Funding Recent grants include £931k for 'Sustainable Separation Membranes for Green Pharmaceutical Manufacturing' (EPSRC) and a £1.28M ERC Advanced Grant ('Exactymer'). Collaborations span industry partners like AstraZeneca and Evonik Industries. Awards Fellow of the Royal Society (2022) Fellow of Royal Academy of Engineering (2006) Imperial College Research Excellence Medal (2018) Labs & Teams He directs the LivingstonLab at Queen Mary and co-founded Exactmer Limited, a startup commercializing Nanostar Sieving technology for biopolymer production. His team includes 20+ PhD students and postdocs.
Eric van Genderen is a Scientist at the Paul Scherrer Institute, specializing in electron diffraction and structural biology. His work focuses on developing methods for protein structure determination. Research Interests: His expertise includes 3D electron diffraction (3D-ED/MicroED), machine learning applications for diffraction data, and protein nanocrystal analysis. Current projects investigate hydrogen storage nanomaterials and computational refinement techniques. Publications: Recent work demonstrates advances in AI-driven diffraction phasing, detector technology, and peptide engineering. Publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches to structural analysis. Laboratories: Leads hardware development for electron diffractometers at the Laboratory for Multiscale Bioimaging. Facilities include specialized TEMs with cryo-stages and hybrid detectors. Advising: Supervises Master's students in projects related to diffraction classification algorithms and nanocomposite characterization.
Dr. John Mulley is a Research Lecturer in the School of Environmental and Natural Sciences at Bangor University, where he conducts research at the intersection of evolutionary biology, developmental genetics, and comparative genomics. His work spans diverse systems including desert rodents, venomous snakes, and various arthropods, utilizing cutting-edge genomic technologies such as long-read sequencing and Hi-C for chromosome-scale genome assemblies. He is affiliated with the Evo-Devo@Bangor research group and maintains an active research program with international collaborations, particularly with Prof. Wolfgang Wüster. University: Bangor University School: School of Environmental and Natural Sciences Position: Research Lecturer Email: j.mulley@bangor.ac.uk ORCID: 0000-0002-1537-7316 Personal Website: www.johnmulley.com Education: DPhil, The Evolution of Vertebrate ParaHox Genes, Oxford University, 2007 MSc, Biosystematics, Imperial College London, 2003 BSc, Genetics, University of Liverpool, 2002 Dr. Mulley's research focuses on understanding how genomic changes drive animal evolution and development. His primary interests include GC-biased mutation in desert rodents, the evolution of snake venom through gene duplication, and the influence of the uterine environment on embryonic gene expression and vertebral patterning. He employs molecular techniques such as antibody-based hormone assays, gene/protein expression studies, and rodent breeding programs to explore developmental mechanisms. His work also extends to conservation genomics, particularly in reptiles and arthropods. The recent publication trends highlight his leadership in genome sequencing projects across diverse taxa, including reptiles, sharks, and numerous insect species, often as part of large consortia like the Darwin Tree of Life. His research demonstrates a strong emphasis on high-quality genome assembly, evolutionary developmental biology, and the genetic basis of phenotypic variation. Dr. Mulley has been involved in several funded research projects, including 'Decoding dark DNA', 'Mapping the gerbil genome', and 'Refining husbandry and welfare of desert rodents'. He has also supported attendance at scientific conferences through UFAW grants. His collaborative network is extensive, with frequent co-authorship on studies involving genome evolution, venom biology, and conservation genetics. He is actively involved in postgraduate supervision and welcomes PhD and MScRes students interested in Evolution and Development, Gene and Genome Duplication, and Snake Venom Evolution. His lab provides opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge genomic research using state-of-the-art sequencing and bioinformatic tools. Dr. Mulley is a member of the research group Evo-Devo@Bangor, which focuses on evolutionary and developmental mechanisms in diverse animal models. His projects often involve interdisciplinary collaboration with experts in ecology, conservation, and molecular biology, contributing to both fundamental biological knowledge and applied conservation efforts.
Nurhan Dunford is a Professor at Oklahoma State University, affiliated with the Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Center and the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering within the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. She also serves as an Extension Specialist for Oilseed Chemistry with OSU Extension, contributing to both academic and practical outreach since 2001. Her research interests span a broad and impactful range of topics, including value-added processing of plant materials, oil and oilseed chemistry, functional foods, nutraceuticals, biofuels from biomass, and sustainable wastewater treatment using microalgae. Her work emphasizes sustainability, waste minimization, and renewable resource development. The recent scholarly articles highlight a strong focus on algal biotechnology, pecan byproduct valorization, enzymatic processing, and bio-oil production. Trends in her publications show a commitment to circular economy principles, transforming agricultural and industrial wastes into high-value products such as biofuels, antioxidants, and nutraceuticals. Her scientific recognition includes prestigious awards such as: Fulbright US Scholar (2016, 2014) American Oil Chemists’ Society Merit Award (2015) Tim L. Mounts Award from AOCS (2011) Riata Entrepreneurship Faculty Fellow (2013–2016) Japanese Government Invitation Fellowship (2000) Copernicus Fellowship from UNESCO (1985) She mentors graduate students through thesis and dissertation research, teaches courses in food engineering and bioprocessing, and leads multiple funded research projects. Her work is supported by grants from USDA, OCAST, USGS, and other agencies, reflecting both scientific merit and practical application. She is actively involved in extension services, publishing both peer-reviewed research and accessible outreach materials on sustainable food systems and packaging.
University of California, San FranciscoUnited States
James Fraser is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Pharmacy. He coordinates the school’s research efforts, focusing on collaborations across labs, departments, and institutions. His research centers on protein structure and conformational dynamics, particularly how mutations and ligand binding reshape protein ensembles to affect function and organismal fitness. He employs advanced computational and biophysical techniques such as X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, and directed evolution to study these processes. UCSF School of Pharmacy Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences Graduate Programs: Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Biophysics, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacogenomics Affiliations: Quantitative Biosciences Institute (QBI), Bowes Biomedical Investigator Program Fraser’s research combines structural biology, systems pharmacology, and computational modeling to address fundamental questions in protein function and evolution. His lab develops methods to extract maximal information from X-ray diffraction and cryo-EM data, enabling detailed analysis of protein conformational states. Recent work includes studying SARS-CoV-2 proteins for antiviral drug discovery and investigating resistance mechanisms in the MET receptor tyrosine kinase. His 15 most recent articles span structural biology, computational enzymology, and drug development, with a focus on SARS-CoV-2 and MET inhibitors. Keywords include Protein Dynamics , X-ray Crystallography , Cryo-EM , and Directed Evolution , reflecting his interdisciplinary approach. W.H. and W.L. Bragg Prize (2020), International Union of Crystallography Byers Award in Basic Science (2020), UCSF Packard Fellow (2014-2019), David and Lucille Packard Foundation Searle Scholar (2014-2017), Kinship Foundation Pew Scholar in the Biomedical Sciences (2014-2016), Pew Charitable Trusts Fraser mentors students and postdoctoral scholars, including Stephanie Wankowicz, Galen Correy, and Gabriella Estevam, who co-author his publications. His lab collaborates with institutions like the Weizmann Institute and QBI, integrating computational approaches with experimental validation. He advocates for open science and reproducibility, contributing to preprint peer review initiatives.
Fahrettin Göğüş is a Professor at Gaziantep University's Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering. With a doctorate from the University of Leeds (1995) and a master's from Middle East Technical University (1989), his career spans 30+ years in food chemistry, oil technology, and sustainable food processing. He has led numerous national and international projects, including TÜBİTAK-funded initiatives on microwave-assisted extraction and EU collaborations on food waste valorization. Education: University of Leeds (PhD, Food Sciences), Middle East Technical University (MSc, Food Engineering), Middle East Technical University (BSc, Food Engineering) His research focuses on microwave-assisted extraction , food waste valorization , biodegradable films , and innovative drying techniques . Key projects include enzymatic oil modification, cocoa butter alternatives, and bioactive compound recovery from agricultural byproducts. Over 105 publications highlight his expertise in Food Science , Food Chemistry , and Sustainable Technologies . Recent articles (2023-2024) emphasize microwave-assisted extraction of xylose from pistachio shells, radio frequency drying of fruits/vegetables, and biorefinery applications for olive pomace. His work bridges food waste valorization , green chemistry , and emulsion technology . Scientific Award: 2017 YABİTED Poster Second Prize Administrative roles: Former Rector Assistant (2008-2016), Erasmus Coordinator (2010-2016), Department Chair (2012-2016). He has supervised 15+ theses, including PhDs on cocoa butter alternatives and flaxseed oil encapsulation .
Dr. Michael Bodensteiner serves as the Head of the X-ray Structure Analysis Department within the Central Analytics Unit at the University of Regensburg's Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy. With over a decade of leadership in crystallographic analysis since 2011, he has established himself as a key figure in quantum crystallography and advanced X-ray structure determination techniques. His educational background includes chemistry studies at the University of Regensburg (2001-2007) culminating in a diploma thesis on "Investigations into the oligomerization of Lewis acid/base-stabilized phosphanylalanes" under Prof. Dr. M. Scheer, followed by doctoral research on "Lewis Acid-Base-Stabilized Phosphanylalanes and Crystal Structure Determinations" completed between 2007-2011. Dr. Bodensteiner's research focuses on quantum crystallography, particularly the application of individual aspherical form factors derived from quantum chemical calculations or multipole refinement. His work significantly advances the understanding of electron density distribution, bonding relationships, and precise hydrogen positioning at neutron diffraction levels. He specializes in Cu-Kβ radiation techniques that provide superior resolution for challenging crystal structures like "sponge crystals," and has developed methods for individual determination of anomalous dispersion during structure model refinement. His research directly contributes to the development of the NoSpherA2 software, which he co-developed. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on quantum crystallographic methods, particularly through the NoSpherA2 platform. His work spans from fundamental charge density analysis to applications in heavy element compounds, organometallic chemistry, and materials science. A notable trend is the integration of computational methods with experimental crystallography to extract maximum information from X-ray diffraction data, with particular attention to anomalous dispersion effects and advanced refinement techniques. Dr. Bodensteiner actively teaches multiple courses in X-ray crystallography across both winter and summer semesters, including practical courses on single-crystal X-ray structure analysis and theoretical components covering the journey from crystal to reflection and back. His teaching extends to general chemistry for biologists, pharmaceutical scientists, and business chemists. As Managing Director of OlexSys GmbH, he bridges academic research with commercial applications of crystallographic software. His professional leadership extends to multiple crystallographic societies where he serves in significant roles, including as board member of the Chemical Crystallography Working Group in the Analytical Chemistry Division of the German Chemical Society, and involvement with multiple special interest groups in the European Crystallographic Association. His laboratory work centers around advanced X-ray diffraction techniques, with particular expertise in quantum crystallography methods, Cu-Kβ radiation applications, and anomalous dispersion parameter refinement. The department under his leadership serves as a critical analytical resource for the university's chemistry research community, providing high-precision structure determinations that inform broader chemical investigations across multiple research groups.
