Dr Nga Wun (Doris) Li is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) within the Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building, Department of Fashion and Textiles. She leads research in seamless knitting technology, smart textiles, and sustainable fashion innovation. PhD in Fashion & Textile Design (HK PolyU, 2021) BA (Hons) in Fashion & Textiles (HK PolyU, 2012) Certifications in Wholegarment Machine (Shima Seiki, Japan) and Higher Education Pedagogy (UTS) Her research focuses on functional garments, knitting technology, and bio-informed textile design. Key projects include smart socks for DVT prevention , one-size sports bras , and buoyant swimwear for children . She combines knitting with machine learning and 3D printing for material innovation. Recent publications highlight her work on compression textiles (2025), wearable glucose sensors (2025), and knitted metasurfaces for acoustic comfort (2024). She has secured AU$52,000+ in grants across 5 funded projects. Fashion Design Award (Jeanswest, China) Outstanding Presentation & Research Paper Awards (2024) Dr Li supervises PhD and MPhil students in smart textiles and sustainable design while coordinating machine knitting courses. She collaborates with AiDLab (Hong Kong) and Powerhouse Museum (Australia).
Tobias Hermann serves as an Associate Professor at the University of Oxford's Department of Engineering Science, where he leads research within the Oxford Thermofluids Institute and holds a prestigious UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship. Affiliated with St. Hilda's College as an Associate Research Fellow, his work centers on experimental hypersonics and advanced diagnostic development for extreme aerospace environments. Hermann earned his Dipl.-Ing. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Stuttgart (2012) followed by a Dr.-Ing. degree (2017), with doctoral research focused on spacecraft re-entry phenomena and aerothermochemistry during atmospheric entry. His thesis involved developing optical diagnostics including Vacuum Ultraviolet spectroscopy and tomographic emission systems. His research program emphasizes experimental hypersonics and plasma flows , with core expertise in spacecraft re-entry physics , high-temperature material-flow interactions , and optical diagnostic innovation . Hermann pioneered analytical methods for transpiration cooling in porous media and developed system engineering tools for thermal protection systems. His current work bridges fundamental fluid dynamics with practical aerospace applications, particularly in hypersonic vehicle design and re-entry simulation through facilities like the T6 expansion tube. Analysis of Hermann's publication record reveals consistent focus on high-enthalpy flow diagnostics and thermal protection systems , with recent work advancing expansion tube capabilities for boost-glide re-entry simulation, integrated arc-jet facilities for ablating models, and vacuum ultraviolet spectroscopy for plasma flow characterization. His research demonstrates strong integration of experimental validation with analytical modeling across hypersonic testing regimes. Hermann's scientific recognition includes: UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship (2021-present) As an educator, Hermann supervises 4th-year undergraduate projects and DPhil (PhD) students in hypersonics while teaching Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics. His current research portfolio—primarily funded through his UKRI Fellowship—comprises three major thrusts: development of high-enthalpy wind tunnels (including the multi-mode T6 facility), pre-heating of hypersonic models using plasma flows, and advancement of measurement techniques like spatially resolved UV-nIR spectroscopy. These projects address critical gaps in hypersonic testing infrastructure and instrumentation. Hermann directs experimental efforts at Oxford's Southwell Laboratory within the Oxford Hypersonics group, operating facilities including the T6 Stalker tunnel, OPG1 plasma wind tunnel, and specialized arc-jet systems. His team develops cutting-edge instrumentation such as vacuum ultraviolet spectroscopy systems, high-speed focused Schlieren, and pressure-sensitive paint diagnostics to investigate complex phenomena in hypersonic boundary layers and re-entry flows.
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in LausanneSwitzerland
Florent Cosandier serves as a Lecturer in the Section of Microtechnology and Research Associate at the Micromechanical and Horological Design Laboratory (INSTANT-LAB) within the School of Engineering at Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL). His dual roles bridge precision engineering education and advanced research in mechanical systems design. His research centers on compliant and flexure mechanisms with applications spanning horology, space instrumentation, and micro-technology. Key focus areas include parasitic error minimization in translation stages, dynamic balancing for mechanical oscillators, and additive manufacturing of complex compliant systems. Recent work demonstrates experimental validation of zero-force mechanisms and novel pivot designs for high-precision positioning. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a dominant trend in rectilinear stage development (6 articles), horological applications (4 articles), and space telescope assembly systems (3 articles). His work consistently emphasizes experimental validation, large-range motion capabilities, and parasitic shift elimination through innovative parallel mechanism configurations. Cosandier has advised at least one PhD student at EPFL: Kruis Johannes Richard Cornelis Geerit. He contributes to teaching through courses like "Advanced mechanisms for extreme environments" within the SMT-ENS unit. As a core member of INSTANT-LAB, he collaborates on projects involving metallic additive manufacturing for damping systems, micro-vibration suppression platforms, and silicon-based flexure mechanisms. His current research trajectory shows increasing focus on space applications and bi-material additive manufacturing techniques.
Professor David Alexander is a distinguished academic at Durham University's Department of Physics, where he serves as Professor and Chair of Board of Examiners. His responsibilities include Head of Section for Astronomy and Director of Postgraduate Research, demonstrating his significant leadership role within the department. Alexander is also responsible for teaching the Stars Lecturer component of the Level 2 Stars and Galaxies course. His primary research interests focus on Active Galactic Nuclei, black holes, and galaxy formation and evolution, representing core areas in modern astrophysics. Alexander's work spans observational and theoretical aspects of high-energy astrophysics, with particular emphasis on understanding the connections between supermassive black holes and their host galaxies across cosmic time. His research leverages data from major international facilities including NuSTAR, ALMA, DESI, and XMM-Newton, conducting multi-wavelength studies that combine X-ray, infrared, optical, and radio observations. Analysis of his most recent publications reveals a strong focus on AGN demographics, obscuration mechanisms, quasar environments, and the role of AGN in galaxy evolution. His work frequently explores the connection between AGN activity and galaxy properties, with particular attention to the cosmic evolution of these relationships. Recent papers demonstrate increasing emphasis on large-scale surveys and statistical approaches to understanding AGN populations. Leverhulme Research Fellowship (2000-2012) Philip Leverhulme Prize (2000-2008) Royal Society University Research Fellowship (2000-2003) Thomson Reuters ESI highly cited researcher over 2002-2012 Professor Alexander has been instrumental in numerous major survey projects including the NuSTAR extragalactic surveys, DESI quasar studies, and the VST ATLAS Quasar Survey. His collaborative work spans international teams and leverages cutting-edge observational facilities across the electromagnetic spectrum. His research group focuses on understanding the physical processes that govern AGN activity and their connection to galaxy evolution, with particular emphasis on obscured AGN populations and their role in the cosmic black hole growth history.
Steven F. Son is the Alfred J. McAllister Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University, affiliated with the College of Engineering. He holds joint appointments in Aeronautics and Astronautics, Materials Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on energetic materials, combustion science, and propulsion systems, with emphasis on detonation physics, additive manufacturing of explosives, and novel propellant designs. Key projects include developing throttleable solid propellants, studying material-filled void effects on detonation waves, and optimizing nanomaterials for enhanced reactivity. Dr. Son’s work integrates experimental and computational methods, such as laser absorption spectroscopy and machine learning, to advance understanding of high-energy materials. His contributions span from fundamental material characterization to applied systems like Martian perchlorate-based propellants. He leads research at the Maurice J. Zucrow Laboratories, Purdue’s premier facility for propulsion and energetic materials research. His recent studies explore flexoelectricity in fluoropolymer/aluminum composites, laser ignition systems for solid propellants, and thermal decomposition mechanisms of novel energetic formulations. While no awards are explicitly listed, his prolific publication record and interdisciplinary approach highlight his influence in the field.
Sophie Dove is an Honorary Associate Professor at the School of Biological Sciences , University of Queensland, and an Affiliate Associate Professor at the Global Change Institute . Her research focuses on coral reef photobiology, climate change impacts, and symbiotic relationships in marine ecosystems. PhD in Biological Sciences, University of Sydney MA in Philosophy, University of Southern California MA (Hons) in Mathematics and Philosophy, University of Edinburgh Her work examines coral-dinoflagellate symbiosis , particularly how host and symbiont interactions maintain reef productivity under climate stress. Key questions include the role of symbiont parasitism, coral heterotrophy, and reef accretion-erosion balance under ocean acidification and warming. She collaborates with institutions like the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and CSIRO Publishing. Recent publications span coral bleaching mechanisms , ocean acidification effects , and biochemical adaptations in symbiotic organisms. Her studies integrate molecular biology, biogeochemistry, and ecophysiology to predict reef futures under climate stress. She has contributed to scientific consensus reports on the Great Barrier Reef and developed methodologies for analyzing coral and sponge physiology. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges marine ecology, protein biochemistry, and climate science.
University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignUnited States
Christopher Evans is an Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Illinois, affiliated with the Materials Research Lab. His research focuses on polymer chemistry and materials science, particularly dynamic covalent bonds, ionic liquids, and polymer networks. He has received notable awards including the 3M Non-Tenured Faculty Award (2020) and NSF CAREER Award (2018). His work explores topics like ion transport in block copolymers, dynamic network viscoelasticity, and solid electrolyte conductivity improvements through helical peptide structures. Recent studies include investigations into penetrant diffusion, crosslink density effects, and thermal conductivity in vitrimers. Evans collaborates widely, addressing challenges in recyclable materials, energy storage, and polymer morphology.
Miklós Koren is a Professor of Economics at Central European University and Senior Research Fellow at the HUN-REN Centre for Economic and Regional Studies. His work bridges international trade , economic development , and managerial economics , focusing on trade policy, productivity spillovers, and the role of managers in development. Ph.D., Harvard University (2005) M.A., Central European University (2000) M.Sc., Budapest University of Economics (1999) His research explores trade facilitation , managerial impact on firm performance , and technological diversification . Recent work includes studies on expatriate managers, pandemic-related business disruptions, and the legacy of communist-era management practices. Key trends in his publications (2020–2024) emphasize managerial mobility and firm productivity (2024) machine learning vs. gravity models (2024) trade volatility and development (2023) data transparency standards (2022) Scientific awards include ERC Starting Grant (2012) Nicholas Káldor Prize (2014) Young Economist Award (2002, 2004) As Data Editor for Review of Economic Studies and Associate Editor for Journal of International Economics , he shapes methodological rigor in empirical research. His 2013 paper on technological diversification remains foundational for understanding volatility in developing economies.
Dr. Jason D. Bakos is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of South Carolina's Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing. His research focuses on high-performance domain-specific architectures, including reconfigurable computing, embedded systems, and machine learning acceleration. He has held academic positions since 2005, progressing from Assistant to Associate Professor before becoming a full Professor in 2017. Education : Ph.D., Computer Science, University of Pittsburgh (2005) B.S., Computer Science, Youngstown State University (1999) Research Interests : Dr. Bakos specializes in computer architecture at multiple levels (circuit, micro-architectural, and system) with a focus on VLSI design, reconfigurable computing, high-performance computing, and applications in embedded systems. His recent work includes FPGA acceleration of machine learning algorithms, structural health monitoring systems, and real-time signal processing. Awards : 2018 Teaching Award in Computer Science and Engineering 2009 NSF CAREER Award Multiple design competition awards for innovative chip and circuit designs Grants & Funding : He leads and co-leads projects funded by NSF, Savannah River National Laboratory, and industry partners like Texas Instruments. Recent grants focus on edge computing for real-time machine learning, FPGA-based accelerators, and corrosion analysis of nuclear materials. Labs & Teams : His research group collaborates on projects involving embedded systems, FPGA design, and interdisciplinary applications in structural engineering and bioinformatics. He advises a dynamic team of graduate students and post-doctoral researchers.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)United States
Joanna Austin is a Professor of Aerospace and serves as the Graduate Option Representative for Aeronautics and Space Engineering, as well as the Undergraduate Option Representative for Aerospace at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). She leads the Caltech Hypersonics Group, which operates facilities like the T5 Reflected Shock Tunnel and the Hypervelocity Expansion Tube (HET). Her research focuses on reactive, compressible flows in applications such as hypervelocity flight, planetary entry, supersonic combustion, bubble dynamics, and explosive geological events. Key projects include studying shock-boundary layer interactions, Martian atmospheric entry aerothermodynamics, and high-speed fluid-structure interactions. She advises four Ph.D. students and collaborates with a team including staff members like Liza Bradulina and research assistants such as Noel Esparza-Duran. Her work bridges experimental fluid dynamics with geophysical phenomena, leveraging advanced diagnostics like Focused Laser Differential Interferometry (FLDI) and laser spectroscopy. The group’s facilities enable studies of high-enthalpy flows and hypersonic aerodynamics critical for aerospace and planetary exploration. Research highlights include investigations into CO₂ Martian entry conditions, boundary layer transition mechanisms, and fluid-structure coupling in high-speed flows. The Hypersonics Group’s experimental setups replicate extreme environments to advance predictive models for aerospace systems. Her contributions span both fundamental fluid mechanics and applied engineering challenges, with a focus on real-gas effects and shock dynamics. Collaborations with institutions like NASA and academic partners further her interdisciplinary impact.
Jerome Hastings is a Research Professor at the Photon Science Directorate , Stanford University, and a Principal Investigator at the Stanford PULSE Institute. He is affiliated with the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and holds the academic rank of Research Professor (A.R.). His research focuses on advanced X-ray scattering techniques, femtosecond laser interactions, and high-energy-density material physics. Currently on leave from June 15, 2025, to September 15, 2025, Hastings has taught courses such as Advanced Topics in X-ray Scattering (APPPHYS 322) and Principles of X-ray Scattering (APPPHYS 222, PHOTON 222). Teaching : 2025-26: Advanced Topics in X-ray Scattering (Spr), Principles of X-ray Scattering (Win), Directed Studies (Aut/Wi/Spr), Research (Aut/Wi/Spr) Prior courses (2024-25, 2023-24) include similar offerings. Research Interests : His work explores the intersection of photon science and material dynamics, utilizing free-electron lasers to probe ultrafast structural changes, phonon hardening, and electronic responses in materials under extreme conditions. Key areas include X-ray diffraction , time-resolved spectroscopy , and high-intensity X-ray interactions . Publications : Hastings has contributed to 47 publications, with recent studies (2024) on supercooled liquid hydrogen crystallization and phonon hardening in laser-excited gold. Earlier works (2019-2016) address X-ray split-delay systems, photodissociation dynamics, and anomalous Compton scattering. Scientific Contributions : Notable projects include the development of compact X-ray diagnostics and phase-contrast imaging instruments at LCLS, enabling nanoscale temporal and spatial resolution for high-energy-density experiments. Students : He has advised doctoral candidates Arijit Majumdar, Chance Ornelas-Skarin, Madison Singleton, and Catherine Weibel. Contact : Academic email jerome.hastings@stanford.edu
Kyle Hanquist is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Arizona, where he is also a member of the Graduate Faculty. He directs the Computational Hypersonics and Nonequilibrium Laboratory (CHANL), focusing on advanced simulation techniques for high-speed flows. His academic journey includes a PhD and MSE in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan and a BSE in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Nebraska. PhD, Aerospace Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MSE, Aerospace Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor BSE, Mechanical Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln Dr. Hanquist's research centers on hypersonics, aerothermodynamics, and nonequilibrium flows , with strong emphasis on computational fluid dynamics , low-temperature plasmas , and thermal management systems . His work involves modeling complex physical phenomena such as electron transpiration cooling, plasma-assisted flow control, and high-temperature gas effects in reentry environments. He also investigates molecular gas dynamics and finite-rate chemistry in extreme conditions. His recent publications reveal a strong trend in computational modeling of hypersonic boundary layers , plasma sheaths , and shock-tube validation of thermochemical models . The interdisciplinary nature of his work spans aerospace engineering, plasma physics, and materials response under extreme thermal loads. Much of his research integrates multi-physics simulations to address fluid-thermal-structural interactions critical for next-generation hypersonic vehicles. Dr. Hanquist has received several scientific honors, including: 2020 AIAA Plasmadynamics and Lasers Best Paper Award Editor's Choice, AIP Publishing - Physics of Fluids (Summer I 2020) Featured Article, AIP Publishing - Physics of Fluids (Summer I 2021) Frontiers in Physics – Plasma Physics (Spring 2020) As an advisor and lab director, he mentors graduate students in computational hypersonics and collaborates with institutions like NASA and the University of Michigan. His research is supported by grants from aerospace and defense agencies, though specific funding sources are not listed. He teaches courses in fluid mechanics, numerical methods, and nonequilibrium flows, contributing to both undergraduate and graduate education. He leads the Computational Hypersonics and Nonequilibrium Laboratory (CHANL) , which develops and applies high-fidelity simulation tools for hypersonic applications. The lab focuses on kinetic modeling, plasma interactions, and optimization of thermal protection systems, often using massively parallel CFD codes and multi-fidelity surrogate models.
Carolyn Conner Seepersad serves as the J. Mike Walker Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin and directs the Center for Additive Manufacturing and Design Innovation. She holds membership in the U.T. System Academy of Distinguished Teachers and maintains active leadership in the additive manufacturing community through roles such as co-organizer of the Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium and ASME Design Engineering Division Executive Committee membership. Her academic credentials include: PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech (2004) MA/BA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from Oxford University (1998, Rhodes Scholar) BS in Mechanical Engineering from West Virginia University (1996) Dr. Seepersad's research centers on computational design methodologies and additive manufacturing innovation , with particular expertise in simulation-based design of complex systems, environmentally conscious product development, and materials engineering. Her work bridges theoretical design frameworks with practical manufacturing applications, emphasizing sustainability and performance optimization across aerospace, automotive, and energy systems. Current projects explore reactive extrusion additive manufacturing, negative stiffness materials, and machine learning integration for process-aware design. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a dominant focus on process innovation in additive manufacturing (70%), particularly stereolithography and selective laser sintering, with growing emphasis on data-driven design approaches (20%) and sustainable engineering applications (10%). Her work demonstrates consistent progression from fundamental material design toward integrated system optimization and industrial scalability. Her scientific recognition includes: International Outstanding Young Researcher Award in Freeform and Additive Manufacturing (2009) UT System Regents’ Teaching Award (2010) ASME Design Automation Committee Outstanding Young Investigator Award (2010) ASEE Outstanding New Mechanical Engineering Educator Award (2013) Multiple ASME and ASEE best paper awards U.T. System Academy of Distinguished Teachers membership Dr. Seepersad maintains an extensive advising portfolio with 48 graduate students (16 PhD, 24 MS, and 8 current) plus 2 postdoctoral researchers, reflecting sustained research productivity and educational impact. Her Product, Process, and Materials Design Lab fosters interdisciplinary collaboration between mechanical engineering, materials science, and computational design teams.
Jared F. Edgerton is an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas at Dallas, affiliated with the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences. His research focuses on how social relations and networks influence conflict dynamics, employing methodologies from network science and machine learning. He holds a Ph.D. (2021) and M.A. (2018) in Political Science from The Ohio State University. Key research interests include terrorism, international security, civil war, and data-driven approaches to conflict analysis. His work spans topics like media effects on violence (e.g., Rwanda's radio impact), extremist recruitment networks (Islamic State), and elite polarization in crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodologically, he combines experimental designs, bipartite network analysis, and geospatial techniques. Notable contributions include analyzing genocide participation in Rwanda, resilience in cooperative state networks, and the socio-technical dimensions of conflict mobilization. His interdisciplinary approach bridges political science, computer science, and security studies. While no scientific awards are explicitly listed, his prolific output reflects sustained scholarly impact. Edgerton has advised no listed students but has engaged in quasi-experimental policy evaluations (e.g., prisoner recidivism programs) and applied geospatial analysis to post-conflict land safety in Cambodia. His research portfolio demonstrates a commitment to both theoretical innovation and real-world conflict mitigation strategies.
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyUnited States
Tal Cohen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), School of Engineering. He joined MIT as an assistant professor in November 2016 after working at Harvard's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and was granted tenure in May 2023. He leads the Cohen's Mechanics Group, which focuses on understanding material behavior under extreme conditions including large deformations, dynamic loading, and growth. His educational background includes a Ph.D. (2014), M.Sc. (2011), and B.Sc. (2007) from the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at the Technion, Israel. Professor Cohen's research centers on nonlinear solid mechanics, material growth, and material instabilities. His work combines theoretical modeling with experimental approaches to explore how materials behave at their extremes. Key research areas include understanding material instabilities (what triggers them, how they can be harnessed or avoided), extreme dynamic loading (shock wave propagation, energy dissipation), and material growth with chemical coupling (how growth leads to residual stresses and morphological changes). His research has significant implications for protective structures, understanding planetary impacts, and biological systems. Analysis of his recent publications (2015-2025) reveals a consistent focus on nonlinear mechanics of soft materials, with increasing emphasis on biological applications in recent years. His work spans theoretical frameworks for material growth, experimental characterization of soft material properties, and computational modeling of complex material behaviors. Key themes include cavitation phenomena, fracture mechanics in soft materials, and the mechanics of biological growth processes. MIT Arthur C. Smith Award, 2024 Eshelby Mechanics Award for Young Faculty, 2023 NSF CAREER Award, 2020 ONR Young Investigator Award, 2020 ARO Young Investigator Award, 2019 MIT-Technion Post-Doctoral Fellowship, 2013-2014 Zonta International Amelia Earhart Fellowship, 2011-2012 Professor Cohen has advised numerous students through their PhD, Master's, and undergraduate research projects. His group includes current PhD candidates working on topics related to material growth, biological mechanics, and extreme loading conditions. He has successfully placed former postdocs in faculty positions at institutions including Harvard, UNH, and Central South University in China. His research has been supported by significant grants including the NSF CAREER Award and Young Investigator Awards from ONR and ARO. The Cohen Mechanics Group maintains an active research program with connections to multiple disciplines including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, and biomechanics.
