Amirreza Razmjoo Fard is a PhD student and Researcher at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), affiliated with the School of Engineering (STI) and the Robot Learning and Interaction (RLI) Group at the Idiap Research Institute. Supervised by Dr. Sylvain Calinon, he focuses on developing adaptive, efficient, and intelligent robotic control methods for contact-rich environments and constrained scenarios. Research Areas: Generative AI (diffusion models, flow matching), Model composition (product of experts), System dynamics, Control theory, Physics-based simulation (Isaac Sim) Key Goals: Bridging theory and real-world applications, enhancing robot autonomy, interaction, and physical intelligence His work spans publications at top robotics conferences like IROS, CoRL, RSS, and ICRA, with a Best Paper Finalist recognition at RSS 2024. Notable methods include CCDP for diffusion policy composition, CDF for differentiable robot geometry, and D-LGP for hybrid planning. He has also collaborated with Honda Research Institute Europe during a six-month internship.
Kazimierz Choroś is a Professor at the Department of Applied Informatics , Faculty of Information and Communication Technology , Wrocław University of Science and Technology. He held leadership roles as Deputy Director of the Institute of Informatics (2008-2014) and Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science and Management (2016-2020). Research interests: digital image/video processing, content-based video indexing, computer animations, multimedia systems, web systems analysis, and information systems design. Organizer and Chair of the International Conference on Multimedia & Network Information Systems (MISSI 2022) Chair of Special Session WebSys 2020 at ICCCI 2020 Other activities: Since 1993, member and former President (1993-2002) of the SAGE Association (Polish Graduates of French Grandes Ecoles). Since 1982, member of the Polish Numismatic Society, author of dozens of numismatic publications, and Editor-in-Chief of Wrocławskie Zapiski Numizmatyczne (2003-present). Contact: Email: kazimierz.choros@pwr.edu.pl Phone: +48-71.320.3799 Office: Building D2, Room 201/1 Address: Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wyb. Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland
Macfarlane A. is a faculty member at City, University of London, with a long-standing research career in information retrieval, human-computer interaction, and accessibility. His work focuses on inclusive design, particularly for users with dyslexia and aphasia, and extends into AI applications in journalism and systematic review methodologies. His research interests include Information Retrieval , Human-Computer Interaction , Accessibility and Inclusive Design , Information Behavior , Knowledge Organization , and AI in Journalism . He investigates how cognitive and learning differences affect information seeking and how systems can be designed to support diverse users. The trends in his recent publications show a strong focus on accessibility , AI integration in professional domains , and user-centered search design . His work bridges theoretical models of information behavior with practical applications in journalism, education, and assistive technology. While no specific scientific awards are mentioned in the provided text, his extensive publication record in top-tier venues such as CHI, CHIIR, and JASIST underscores his scholarly impact. Macfarlane A. has advised or collaborated with numerous researchers, though specific student names are not listed. His work often involves interdisciplinary collaboration, especially with Makri S., Missaoui S., and Berget G. There is no mention of grants in the provided materials. His research contributes to several lab or team efforts in human-centered information systems, particularly those focused on inclusive search , AI ethics , and cognitive accessibility , though specific lab names are not provided.
Dr. Leif Willard Lundmark is an Associate Professor in the Management Department at the University of Nebraska, Omaha's College of Business Administration. He holds a Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of Utah's David Eccles School of Business. His teaching focuses on Corporate Strategy, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Decision-Making at undergraduate and MBA levels. His research explores cognitive and behavioral foundations of strategic decision-making, including IPO biases, problem formulation, and the role of affect in knowledge search. His work has been published in Strategic Management Journal and Journal of Management , and featured in major media outlets. Dr. Lundmark currently chairs the Undergraduate Program Council, overseeing assessment and student performance, and serves on the advisory board of the Koraleski CABlab, which uses technologies like eye tracking and EEG for behavioral research. He is active in the Academy of Management and Strategic Management Society, reviewing for journals and conferences. He has received consecutive Department of Management Teaching Awards (2017, 2018). His externally funded research includes a U.S. Department of Homeland Security project on 'Business and Cyber Models of Terrorism.' His work bridges academic and practical domains, emphasizing real-world applications in strategy and entrepreneurship education.
Tony Russell-Rose is Reader in Computer Science at Goldsmiths, University of London. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from Nottingham Trent University and directs UXLabs, specializing in complex information-centric applications. His research integrates natural language processing, information retrieval, and user experience. Research interests include human information interaction, professional search systems, complex query formulation, and visual interfaces for information exploration. He collaborates with City University's School of Informatics and Sheffield University's Information Retrieval group. Publications focus on search strategy formulation, visual query interfaces, and professional search practices. Recent works emphasize transparency, reproducibility, and explainability in information retrieval systems. Awards: Royal Academy of Engineering Visiting Professor
Prabhat Hajela is the Edward P. Hamilton Professor of Aerospace Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). He has held leadership roles including Provost and Vice Provost, overseeing academic strategy and undergraduate programs. His academic journey includes degrees from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (B.Tech, 1977), Iowa State University (MS, 1979), and Stanford University (MS and PhD, 1981–1982). He joined RPI in 1990 and became a full professor in 1992. His research focuses on structural and multidisciplinary optimization, with applications in aerospace systems, composite materials, and uncertainty modeling. Notable contributions include over 300 publications and four co-authored books. Hajela’s administrative leadership includes expanding undergraduate research programs, international collaborations, and the CLASS initiative. He is a Fellow of AIAA, ASME, and AeSI, and received the AIAA Biennial Multidisciplinary Design Optimization Award in 2004. Education: B.Tech (Aeronautical Engineering), Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (1977) MS (Aerospace Engineering), Iowa State University (1979) MS (Mechanical Engineering), Stanford University (1981) PhD (Aeronautics and Astronautics), Stanford University (1982) Research Interests: Hajela’s work spans structural optimization, multidisciplinary design, computational mechanics, and aerospace systems. He pioneered methods for reliability-based design, uncertainty quantification, and evolutionary algorithms. His research addresses challenges in composite materials, aeroelasticity, and the integration of artificial intelligence in engineering design. Recent projects include virtual reality in STEM education and adaptive systems for Mars missions. Key Contributions: Developed EVOLVE, a genetic search-based optimization code Advanced methodologies for multiscale composite analysis and failure prediction Contributed to CAN-SPAM legislation as a Congressional Fellow (2003) Chaired ASME’s Aerospace Division and served on National Academies panels Awards and Recognition: AIAA Biennial Multidisciplinary Design Optimization Award (2004) Fellowships: AIAA, ASME, and AeSI Recipient of the Boeing-A.D. Welliver Fellowship (1995) Administrative Impact: Hajela led RPI’s academic innovation, including undergraduate research expansion and the implementation of living-learning communities. His focus on global education and interdisciplinary collaboration has shaped RPI’s strategic vision. Current roles include chairing the NRC Technical Assessment Board for the Army Research Laboratory.
Ardeshir Bangian Tabrizi is an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), Ewing, New Jersey. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Rutgers University (2020), an M.Sc. from K.N.Toosi University of Technology (2011), and a B.Sc. from the University of Tehran (2008). His research focuses on inverse problem solving in convective heat transfer, fluid mechanics, numerical simulation, and sustainable thermal systems engineering. He employs advanced computational methods like CFD and optimization strategies to address engineering challenges in heat transfer mechanisms, buoyancy-driven flows, and system design. His professional experience includes roles as Assistant Professor at TCNJ (2023–present), Delaware County Community College (2022–2023), and Postdoctoral Associate at Rutgers University (2021–2022). He also served as Adjunct Professor at TCNJ and NJIT, and a Research Engineer at CAIT. His service contributions include committee work in DEI initiatives and faculty search committees. Key research trends show a strong focus on inverse problems applied to natural convection and wall plume dynamics, with recent work extending to sustainable frost prevention systems. His articles bridge experimental data with numerical simulations to enhance thermal system understanding and optimization. Research Interests: Inverse Convective Heat Transfer Problems Numerical Simulation of Buoyancy-Driven Flows Thermal System Design and Optimization CFD Applications in Engineering
John R. Drake serves as an Associate Professor of Management Information Systems in the College of Business at East Carolina University. With over 20 years of experience as a web developer, e-commerce researcher, online business owner, and web development instructor, he brings substantial practical expertise to his academic role. His office is located in 347 Slay Hall, Greenville, NC. Dr. Drake holds a BS in Physics from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and a Ph.D. in Management of Information Technology and Innovation from Auburn University. His educational background bridges technical and business domains, informing his interdisciplinary research approach. His research focuses on two primary streams: thinking and morality with information systems , which explores social media privacy, search strategies, online education, and general business ethics; and team work , which investigates the role of trust, risk, and virtuality in team project success. Recent publications examine critical topics including AI authenticity, the future of work in AI environments, and critical thinking in digital contexts. Dr. Drake has published in notable journals including AIS Transactions on HCI , Journal of Business Ethics , IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication , Journal of Information Technology Theory and Application , and Journal of Theoretical and Applied Electronic Commerce Research . His work demonstrates a consistent focus on the intersection of technology, ethics, and human behavior. As an educator, he previously taught MIS 4153: Web Application Development for Business and developed the Website Analysis Project, which connected students with local businesses to analyze digital media with actionable recommendations. He's also the author of eCommerce: A Stakeholder Approach and maintains practical resources like his guide to creating small business websites using WordPress and Bluehost. Dr. Drake actively engages with the community through consulting services and has worked with numerous local organizations including Greenville Montessori School, Waveborn, and Pitt-Greenville Airport Authority. His blog covers timely topics in research, teaching, practice, and service, demonstrating his commitment to sharing knowledge beyond the classroom.
Mathijs de Weerdt is a Full Professor at Delft University of Technology, leading the Algorithmics Group within the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science. His research focuses on developing advanced algorithms for planning and scheduling under uncertainty, with applications in energy systems, railway logistics, satellite operations, and agricultural supply chains. He bridges fundamental AI research with practical implementations through collaborations with Dutch National Railways (NS), Shell Recharge, and industry partners. Education: PhD in Multi-Agent Plan Merging (2003), MSc in Computer Science (Utrecht University, cum laude) Research Interests: Robustness in AI, Scalability of Optimization Algorithms, and Multi-Party Coordination His work integrates Stochastic Programming , Reinforcement Learning , and Constraint Programming to address challenges in energy transition and transportation. Recent 15 most recent publications emphasize surrogate modeling for EV charging optimization, multi-agent pathfinding in railways, and dynamic programming for decision trees. Scientific Awards: Recipient of the Erasmus Energy Forum Science Award (2016), Best Teacher Award in Delft Computer Science (2015), and honorable mentions for dissertation and paper awards. As a promotor , he guides over 20 PhD candidates in projects spanning smart grid algorithms, train unit shunting, and strawberry supply chain optimization. He leads large-scale initiatives like the NWO ESI-FAR project and co-chairs the Dutch AI Coalition's Energy & Sustainability working group.
Mateja Đumić is an Assistant Professor at the School of Applied Mathematics and Informatics , Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Croatia. With a PhD in Computing from University of Zagreb (2020) and MSc/BSc in Mathematics from University of Osijek, she specializes in genetic programming , automated heuristic design , and combinatorial optimization problems. PhD in Computing (2020), University of Zagreb MSc in Mathematics (2014), University of Osijek BSc in Mathematics (2011), University of Osijek Her research focuses on solving container relocation problems and resource-constrained scheduling through evolutionary computation techniques. She has pioneered automated design of relocation rules using genetic programming , achieving superior performance over manual methods while exploring multi-objective optimization (including energy consumption), ensemble learning for heuristic improvement, and rollout algorithms to enhance solution quality. Recent work demonstrates how genetic programming can outperform traditional metaheuristics in maritime logistics, while her 2024 studies investigate multitask learning approaches for container relocation scenarios. She also explores fitness landscape analysis to optimize genetic programming parameters and develops automated priority rules for both static and dynamic scheduling environments. Professor Đumić teaches computer science , heuristic algorithms , database systems , and mathematical competitions at both undergraduate and graduate levels. She actively participates in international conferences including GECCO , CEC , and COST Action Training Schools .
Louise Reynolds is an Associate Professor in Paramedicine at Flinders University, affiliated with the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine within the Faculty of Health Sciences. Her research focuses on optimizing paramedic practice within healthcare systems, advancing research methodologies in prehospital care, and addressing professional development challenges. She has contributed to multidisciplinary frameworks for patient-centered care and published extensively on paramedicine's evolving role in healthcare systems. Her work spans research priorities, barriers to innovation in paramedicine, and the integration of community paramedicine models. Notable outputs include collaborative studies on non-acute patient management and Delphi consensus methodologies for setting research agendas. Reynolds has also authored textbook chapters on healthcare system analysis and ethnographic research techniques, emphasizing practical applications for paramedic education and clinical practice. No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned in her profile. Her advising and grants activities remain unspecified, though her collaborative research indicates significant academic engagement. She contributes to interdisciplinary teams exploring healthcare access in remote areas and gender dynamics within paramedicine professions.
Yuan Li is a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the School of Library and Information Studies (SLIS) at the University of Alabama since August 2023. Her research focuses on Human-AI Interaction, Interactive Information Retrieval, and User Experience Design, particularly exploring how contextual factors influence user interactions with information systems like search engines and generative AI. Education: PhD in Information Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill M.A. in Library and Information Science, University of South Carolina B.A. in Information Management, Nankai University, China Research Interests: Design of information assistance tools to enhance learning and task completion Evaluation of generative AI in creative industries (e.g., fashion design) Cross-session search behavior analysis for complex tasks Metacognitive support in exploratory search systems Grants & Projects: While specific grants are not detailed here, her work consistently integrates applied research with system development and user evaluation methodologies. Labs/Teams: Engaged in SLIS research initiatives focusing on human-centered information systems and generative AI applications.
Halvard Arntzen is an Associate Professor at Molde University College, affiliated with the Faculty of Logistics and the Department of Logistics. He currently serves as the acting Dean for the Department of Logistics. His academic background includes a Cand. Scient. in Mathematics from the University of Oslo (1994) and extensive experience in logistics and operations research, including roles as a scientific assistant at the University of Oslo (1994–2000) and faculty member at Molde University College since 2000. Research Interests: Applied mathematics, statistical modeling, econometrics, operations research, planning, optimization, decision support systems, and sport analytics. His work spans topics such as stochastic vehicle routing, team sports outcome prediction, and heuristic algorithms for complex optimization problems. Teaching: Courses include Log 708 - Applied Statistics and Mat 210 - Statistics II , focusing on practical applications of statistical methods and regression analysis. Research Groups: Member of the Planning, Optimization and Decision Support research group. Publications: Over 15 peer-reviewed articles, including influential works on sport analytics, stochastic vehicle routing, and optimization algorithms. His research addresses real-world challenges in logistics, healthcare, and sports through data-driven methodologies.
Murat Köksalan is a Visiting Professor at the Department of Technology and Operations within the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. He previously held roles such as Professor and Chair of the Department of Industrial Engineering at Middle East Technical University, and visiting positions at Georgetown University, Aalto University, Purdue University, and SUNY Buffalo. His academic journey includes a PhD from SUNY Buffalo (1984), an MSc (1980), and BSc (1979) from Middle East Technical University. Education: PhD in Technology and Operations, State University of New York at Buffalo (1984) MSc in Industrial Engineering, Middle East Technical University (1980) BSc in Industrial Engineering, Middle East Technical University (1979) His research focuses on multiple criteria decision making, combinatorial optimization, heuristic search, combinatorial auctions, and teaching case development . He has been recognized with prestigious awards including the MCDM Gold Medal and the Parlar Foundation Science Award, alongside four INFORMS Case Competition first prizes. Recent articles highlight advancements in multi-objective optimization for UAV routing, preference function modeling, and stochastic programming applications. His work bridges theoretical contributions with practical implementations in energy markets, portfolio optimization, and interactive decision support systems. Awards: Young Researcher Award (Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey) MCDM Gold Medal (International Society on Multiple Criteria Decision Making) Science Award (Parlar Foundation) His advising and grants reflect a commitment to multi-objective frameworks and their applications. He contributes to research teams exploring algorithmic efficiency, preference elicitation, and stochastic modeling, with ongoing efforts in UAV navigation and energy market dynamics.
Fabio Schoen is a Professor of Operations Research at the Department of Information Engineering, University of Florence, and an Adjunct Professor of Operations Management at the Stern Business School, New York University (Florence campus). His research focuses on optimization methods, global optimization, and machine learning applications. He has authored influential textbooks such as Fondamenti di Ricerca Operativa , widely used in engineering and management courses. His editorial roles include serving as an associate editor for journals like Journal of Global Optimization and Computational Optimization and Applications . His work spans theoretical advancements in optimization algorithms and practical applications in logistics, transportation, and healthcare. Research interests include multi-objective optimization, clustering methods, and the integration of machine learning with optimization frameworks. He has contributed to solving complex problems in scheduling, vehicle detection systems, and resilient IoT networks.
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