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Mikael BacklundView profile

Assistant Professor

• Optical Microscopy
• Quantum Sensing
• Magnetic Resonance
• +4 more

Mikael Backlund is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, affiliated with the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. His research focuses on advancing optical microscopy and quantum sensing techniques to study nanoscale systems in chemistry, materials science, and biology. He joined UIUC in 2020 after postdoctoral work at Harvard University and holds affiliations with the Illinois Quantum Information Science and Technology Center (IQUIST) and the Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology (CBQB). Backlund earned his B.S. in Chemistry from UC Berkeley (2010) and his Ph.D. in Chemical Physics from Stanford University (2016), supported by the Robert and Marvel Kirby Fellowship. His postdoctoral research at Harvard explored quantum diamond sensors and opto-magnetic imaging. His lab develops cutting-edge methods like nanoscale magnetic resonance microscopy using diamond NV centers and quantum metrology approaches for single-molecule imaging. Research areas include quantum-inspired super-resolution, biophysical systems analysis, and condensed matter physics. Projects bridge experimental and theoretical work, emphasizing precision and innovation. Backlund has been recognized with prestigious awards including the NSF CAREER Award (2025), Beckman Young Investigator Award (2023), and Scialog Fellowship (2025). His work intersects quantum science, biophysics, and materials chemistry, with applications in both fundamental and applied research.

Katharina KaiserView profile

Assistant Professor

• Atomic Physics
• Quantum Optics
• Nanotechnology
• +4 more

Katharina Kaiser is an Assistant Professor at the Fourth Physical Institute of the University of Göttingen. Her research focuses on atomic-scale imaging and manipulation of single molecules using advanced techniques such as scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). She investigates quantum phenomena in molecular systems, molecular electronics, and soot formation mechanisms, bridging physics, chemistry, and nanotechnology. Recent Research Trends: Her publications (2019–2025) emphasize quantum technologies, molecular engineering, and environmental chemistry. Key areas include plasmonic-enhanced fluorescence, molecular conductance tuning for neuromorphic computing, and characterization of soot precursors through π-radical localization. Her work also explores synthesis of novel carbon allotropes like cyclo[18]carbon and nonbenzenoid polycyclic hydrocarbons. Technical Expertise: She specializes in Combined AFM/STM imaging Single-molecule spectroscopy Quantum photon emission Nanoscale charge dynamics

Ramon Vilar CompteView profile

Professor

• Medicinal Inorganic Chemistry
• Chemical Biology
• Molecular Recognition
• +4 more

Professor Ramon Vilar Compte is Professor of Medicinal Inorganic Chemistry at Imperial College London 's Department of Chemistry within the Faculty of Natural Sciences . His multidisciplinary research group develops molecular tools for biological interrogation. Key affiliations include: CRUK Convergence Science Centre , Centre for Neurotechnology , Centre for Rapid Online Analysis of Reactions , and Grantham Institute Research focuses on: Medicinal Inorganic Chemistry of G-quadruplex DNA/RNA Metal complexes for cancer and antibacterial therapies Environmental remediation of toxic metals via molecular recognition Advanced optical imaging techniques using fluorescence/phosphorescence lifetime Recent publications demonstrate expertise in metal-based G-quadruplex probes , photocytotoxic antibiotics , and machine learning-driven drug discovery . Group members include 9 PhD students and 5 postdoctoral associates working across chemical biology and environmental science domains.

Alexander Francis PalazzoView profile

Professor

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• RNA Biology
• +3 more

Dr. Alexander F. Palazzo is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Medicine. His research focuses on the mechanisms governing mRNA nuclear export, subcellular localization, and the evolutionary forces shaping genomic nucleotide content. He has made significant contributions to understanding how cells distinguish functional RNAs from non-coding transcripts, and how RNA localization influences protein synthesis in specific cellular compartments. PhD in Cell Biology (Columbia University) Postdoctoral Fellowship at Harvard Medical School Dr. Palazzo's work integrates cell biology, biochemistry, and computational approaches to investigate: mRNA export through nuclear pores ER-targeted translation mechanisms Evolutionary patterns in gene structure Role of nuclear pore proteins in disease His publications reveal trends in RNA processing, disease mechanisms in Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy, and evolutionary origins of functional elements from non-coding DNA. Awards include the Ontario Early Researcher Award, CIHR New Investigator Award, and multiple teaching distinctions. Jean D'Alembert Chair (2023-2024) Mid-Career Excellence in Graduate Teaching (2020) Connaught New Researcher Award (2011) Dr. Palazzo teaches graduate courses in evolutionary thinking and interdisciplinary science, and leads a multidisciplinary lab combining experimental and computational approaches to study RNA biogenesis and cellular information processing.

Melike LakadamyaliView profile

Professor

• Biophysics
• Cell Biology
• Microscopy
• +3 more

Melike Lakadamyali is a Professor at the Perelman School of Medicine , University of Pennsylvania, with secondary appointments in Cell and Developmental Biology. Her research focuses on biophysics , super-resolution microscopy , and macromolecular assembly dynamics in cellular processes. Education: BS (2001) from University of Texas at Austin, PhD (2006) from Harvard University Her work aims to understand the spatiotemporal organization of cellular machinery through advanced single-molecule imaging and quantitative models . Key projects include vesicle transport , transcriptional regulation , and chromatin plasticity . Recent publications highlight methodological innovations like ECLiPSE classification and MiOS imaging-computational strategies. Articles span nucleosome dynamics , mitochondrial fission , and microtubule regulation , emphasizing biophysical quantification . Scientific Awards: EMBO Young Investigator (2013), Ramon y Cajal Fellowship (2014), Hans Fisher Junior Fellow (2016), La Vanguardia Finalist (2016) She advises a research team developing super-resolution tools for vesicular trafficking and chromatin studies , with advisory roles on Bruker/Vutara and BioQuant boards. Her lab employs quantitative approaches to study macromolecular complexes in cellular homeostasis and disease mechanisms .

Fred GittesView profile

Clinical Professor

• Statistical Physics
• Biological Physics
• Optical Trapping
• +7 more

Fred Gittes is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Washington State University, part of the College of Arts and Sciences. He is actively involved in both undergraduate and graduate education, teaching a broad range of physics courses including honors physics, electromagnetism, modern physics, and biological physics. His research lies at the intersection of statistical physics, biophysics, and theoretical methods in physics. His research interests include: Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics Biological Physics and Micromanipulation Optical Trapping and Laser-Based Techniques Differential Geometry and Gauge Theory in Physical Systems Mechanics of Biological Motors and Polymers His recent publications reflect a continued interest in theoretical modeling of physical phenomena, especially in biological contexts. He has developed methods in microscopy and optical trapping, and has explored the use of differential forms in classical physics. His work has been highlighted by Nature Physics and recognized with the JOSA Spotlight on Optics. A recurring theme in his research is the use of thermal fluctuations to extract mechanical properties of soft and biological materials. Notable scientific recognitions include: Excellence in Teaching by a Clinical Faculty Member (2020 Faculty Teaching Award) Highlighted by Nature Physics for his 2018 paper on deriving Einstein's results from the Jarzynski equality Selected for JOSA’s Spotlight on Optics distinction for work on nonconservative forces in optical traps Fred Gittes has mentored several award-winning undergraduate students, including multiple recipients of the Four Outstanding Senior Award who cited him as their most influential teacher. He has delivered numerous colloquia on topics ranging from falling cats and gauge theory to the physics of blood spatter and nuclear radiation in popular culture. His teaching includes graduate-level courses in thermal physics, electrodynamics, and differential geometry, as well as innovative interdisciplinary offerings.

Basant Kumar ThakurView profile

Researcher

• Oncology
• Molecular Oncology
• Extracellular Vesicles
• +7 more

PD Dr. Basant Kumar Thakur is a researcher at the University Hospital Essen, affiliated with the Medical Faculty of the University of Duisburg-Essen. He leads the Cancer Exosome Research Lab within the Department of Pediatrics III, focusing on the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cancer progression, particularly in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML). His work bridges molecular oncology, liquid biopsy development, and cancer immunology. His research centers on three major themes: (i) identification and purification of cancer-specific EVs carrying dsDNA for clinical biomarker development; (ii) mechanisms of EV-DNA transfer into recipient cells; and (iii) functional consequences of this transfer on metastatic progression, including immune modulation via the cGAS/STING pathway. He has developed bead-based methods to isolate homogeneous EV populations and is analyzing large patient cohorts to establish EV-DNA as a tool for detecting minimal residual disease. The recent publications highlight a strong focus on EV biology, with applications in glioma therapy, plant-derived vesicles for drug delivery, and EV-DNA's role in immune activation and stem cell dysfunction. Keywords across articles include oncology, molecular biology, immunology, and nanomedicine, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to cancer research. Scientific awards are not mentioned in the provided text. Dr. Thakur actively collaborates with Prof. Bernd Giebel (Transfusion Medicine, UK Essen) and contributes to EU and DFG-funded research programs. He is involved in PhD training through the ZMB (Centre for Medical Biotechnology) and participates in the European Liquid Biopsy Society. His lab investigates EV-based diagnostics and therapeutic strategies, particularly in pediatric cancers and solid tumors. The Cancer Exosome Research Lab is part of the ZMB and contributes to the Oncology research program. The team employs advanced techniques like single molecule localization microscopy and functional assays to study EV-DNA transfer and its impact on tumor microenvironment and metastasis.

Michael GramlichView profile

Assistant Professor

• Biophysics
• Neuroscience
• Microscopy
• +7 more

Michael Gramlich is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at Auburn University. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Missouri - Columbia (2011) and a B.S. from the same institution (2005). His research focuses on understanding the biophysical principles governing intracellular transport and resource sharing in neurons, particularly synaptic vesicle dynamics, myosin and kinesin motor proteins, and the structural constraints impacting synaptic function. His lab employs interdisciplinary approaches, combining microscopy, computational modeling, and genetic mouse/rat models to study presynaptic mechanisms. Key research questions include how vesicles navigate neuronal microtubules, how synapses prioritize resource allocation during activity, and the molecular underpinnings of synaptic plasticity and neurodegeneration. The lab's 'Physics of Cognition' framework seeks to link molecular-level processes to higher-level cognitive functions like memory formation. Gramlich has published extensively on topics such as vesicle recycling, axonal transport defects, and the role of myosin V in neurotransmitter release. While no explicit awards are listed, his work has advanced understanding of synaptic mechanisms relevant to neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. He currently leads a growing laboratory and is recruiting new members to expand these research initiatives.

• Nanotechnology
• Scanning Tunneling Microscopy
• Surface Science
• +7 more

Borislav Naydenov is a Research Fellow at Trinity College Dublin, affiliated with the School of Chemistry and the Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN). His work bridges physics and chemistry at the nanoscale, focusing on surface phenomena and quantum electronic structures. His research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology, surface science, and quantum device engineering . He specializes in scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS) , using these tools to investigate molecular self-assembly, dangling bond nanostructures, and single-atom quantum interference effects. His studies often explore how atomic-scale configurations influence electronic behavior, contributing to the development of future nanoelectronic devices. The analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent focus on atomic-scale surface characterization and electronic structure manipulation . His work spans from fundamental studies of molecular adsorption and adatom interactions to applied research in single-molecule contact formation and quantum transport. Key themes include the engineering of nanowires from surface dangling bonds , molecular network self-assembly , and coherent quantum interference at the single-atom level . These contributions are primarily published in high-impact journals such as Physical Review Letters , Nano Letters , and Physical Review B . Scientific awards: No scientific awards listed in the provided text. Borislav Naydenov has been actively involved in significant research projects, particularly in collaboration with Prof. John J. Boland, leading to numerous publications in top-tier journals. His work has contributed to advancing the understanding of single-molecule electronics and atomic-scale device fabrication . While no formal students or grant details are mentioned, his long-standing postdoctoral and research fellow roles suggest substantial mentorship and project leadership within the CRANN research environment. He is associated with advanced research infrastructure at CRANN, a leading center for nanoscience in Ireland. His research leverages state-of-the-art ultra-high vacuum STM systems and spectroscopic techniques, enabling atomic-level manipulation and measurement. This environment supports interdisciplinary work combining physics, chemistry, and materials science to push the boundaries of nanoscale science.

Eugene ZubarevView profile

Associate Professor

• Nanomaterial Synthesis
• Self-Assembly of Nanocrystals
• Plasmonics
• +3 more

Eugene Zubarev is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at Rice University, specializing in nanomaterial synthesis and self-assembly. He leads the Zubarev Research Group, focusing on colloidal metallic nanostructures, including gold nanorods, bimetallic nanoparticles, and their applications in catalysis, plasmonics, and biomedical engineering. His work spans from fundamental studies of self-assembly mechanisms to translational research in cancer therapy and nanomedicine. Education: B.S. in Chemistry (Moscow State University, 1993), Ph.D. in Chemistry (Russian Academy of Sciences, 1996). Postdoctoral research at University of Illinois and Northwestern University. Joined Rice University in 2005, promoted to tenured Associate Professor in 2009. Research interests include molecular self-assembly, nanocrystal superstructures, and functional hybrid materials. Key projects involve gold nanorod synthesis, anticancer functionalization, and catalytic bimetallic nanoparticles. His lab emphasizes scalable synthesis methods and nanomaterial characterization. Notable achievements include the Humboldt and Bessel Research Awards (2015). His work bridges materials science and biology, with over 150 publications since 2005. Current research explores tumor microenvironment interactions with nanorods for targeted radiosensitization and drug delivery.

Siegfried MusserView profile

Professor

• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Biophysics
• +4 more

Dr. Siegfried Musser is a Professor in the Department of Cell Biology and Genetics at Texas A&M University's School of Medicine. He holds a PhD from Caltech and joined Texas A&M in 2001 after postdoctoral work at UC Davis and Brandeis University. His research focuses on biophysical mechanisms of protein translocation and biomolecular condensates, using advanced microscopy techniques like single-molecule fluorescence and super-resolution imaging. Key projects include studying nuclear pore complexes, the bacterial Tat machinery, and phase-separated FUS condensates linked to neurodegenerative diseases. Education: AB in Biochemistry from UC Berkeley (1990), PhD in Chemistry from Caltech (1996), postdoctoral training at UC Davis (1996-1999) and Brandeis University (1999-2001). Research Interests: Protein translocation systems (Nuclear Pore Complex, Tat machinery), biomolecular condensates, ALS/FTD pathogenesis, and single-molecule imaging technologies. Current work explores transport pathways in nuclear pores, Tat translocation energetics, and FUS phase maturation using MINFLUX and polarization-PALM approaches. Awards: Junior Faculty Research Excellence Award (Texas A&M Health Science Center). Lab Roles: Mentors graduate students (e.g., Thom Weidman) and postdocs (e.g., Abhishek Sau). Ongoing funding includes grants from the Edward Mallinckrodt Foundation. The lab seeks postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates for biophysics and cell biology projects. Labs/Teams: Musser Lab at Texas A&M Health Science Center, specializing in single-molecule biophysics and cellular transport mechanisms.

Sebastian SpringerView profile

Professor

• Immunology
• Molecular Cell Biology
• Biochemistry
• +3 more

Professor Sebastian Springer leads the Molecular Mechanisms of the Immune Response and Immuno-Biotechnology Research group at Constructor University Bremen. As a Professor of Biochemistry and Cell Biology in the School of Science since 2001, he investigates intracellular transport regulation of immune system membrane proteins, with a focus on MHC class I molecule dynamics and their role in pathogen detection and cancer immunosurveillance. University of California, Berkeley (Postdoctoral Fellow, 1996-2001) Oxford University (PhD, 1992-1996) Tübingen University (Diplom in Biochemistry, 1985-1992) His research combines laser confocal microscopy with biochemical in vitro assays and biophysical approaches to study MHC class I peptide binding and surface localization. Key findings include demonstrating dynamic retention of empty MHC class I molecules and developing stabilized MHC variants commercialized through the Tetramer Shop (2019-21). Collaborations extend to biophysicists designing micrometer capsules for intracellular delivery. Scientific achievements include the Ernst A.-C.-Lange-Preis, with publications covering MHC stability, peptide exchange mechanisms, and structural immunology. His group's work on micrometric capsule technology has both diagnostic and biotechnological applications.

• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Photoporation
• +3 more

Juan Fraire is a researcher affiliated with the Smart Nano-Bio-Devices group, focusing on the intersection of nanotechnology and biomedical engineering. His work emphasizes the development of innovative photoporation techniques for cell engineering, magnetic nanomotors for therapeutic applications, and plasmonic nanomaterials for biosensing and imaging. Key research areas include: Photoporation using polydopamine and graphene quantum dots Magnetic and enzymatic nanomotors for drug delivery Plasmonic probes in biosensors and cellular imaging Photothermal mechanisms for biofilm and vitreous opacity treatments Recent publications highlight his contributions to engineering NK cell therapies, enhancing macromolecule diffusion in viscous media, and developing nanoscale tools for intracellular delivery. His studies span applications in cancer immunotherapy, wound healing, and ophthalmology.

Shikha DhimanView profile

Professor

• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Physical Chemistry
• Biological Systems
• +5 more

Shikha Dhiman is a Professor of Physical Chemistry of Supramolecular Systems at the Department of Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (Germany), and a Junior Faculty member at Max Planck Graduate Center, Mainz. Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), India, under Prof. Subi J. George, followed by postdoctoral work at Eindhoven University of Technology under Prof. Bert Meijer. She has received prestigious awards including the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship and Thieme Chemistry Award 2024. Bachelor's in Chemistry from Hindu College, University of Delhi Integrated Ph.D. in Supramolecular Chemistry from JNCASR Postdoctoral training at Eindhoven University of Technology Her research focuses on creating life-like materials by understanding structure-dynamics-function relationships at molecular interfaces using advanced techniques. Key areas include supramolecular self-assembly, non-equilibrium systems, and bioinspired soft matter engineering. Her publications highlight spatiotemporal patterns, transient coacervation, and ATP-fueled materials. Scientific awards include Thieme Chemistry Award 2024 Certificate of Excellence 2024 by Bharat Vasi Germany e.V Marie Curie Fellowship (2021) Freiburg Rising Star (2021) . She has lectured on macromolecular chemistry and supramolecular systems at JGU Mainz and tutored at TU/e. Her lab explores non-equilibrium spatiotemporal patterns, interactions with biological systems, and small molecule coacervates. Current projects include SFB 1552 and GRK 2516. The lab team includes Ph.D. student Mohit Kumar and postdocs like Dr. Surbhi Sharma.

• Quantum Materials
• Nanoscale Magnetism
• Quantum Sensing
• +3 more

Aparajita Singha serves as Professor and Chair of Nanoscale Quantum Materials at Dresden University of Technology (TUD), leading a research group established in January 2025 within the Institute of Solid State and Materials Physics. Her work centers on nanoscale magnetism, coherent quantum control, and nanoscale transport phenomena using advanced scanning probe techniques including scanning NV-magnetometry, AFM, and STM. Her research pioneers quantum sensing with nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond to achieve non-invasive atomic-scale magnetic imaging. Key projects include developing least-invasive quantum sensors for studying magnetic structures and dynamics, investigating magnetic molecules and radicals, and exploring spin textures in synthetic antiferromagnets. Recent breakthroughs encompass room-temperature mapping of magnetic auto-oscillations in spin Hall nano-oscillators—a critical advancement for neuromorphic computing and microwave generation—as published in Nano Letters (2025). Analysis of her publication trends reveals dominant themes in single-atom magnetism, orbital-resolved magnetism in lanthanides, and quantum sensor development. Her work bridges fundamental quantum physics with applications in quantum computing and spintronics, emphasizing atomic-scale magnetic field engineering and spin dynamics in molecular systems. Her scientific recognition includes: Emmy Noether Grant from DFG (Project ID: 504973613) Professor Singha mentors three PhD students while directing a research program supported by the Emmy Noether grant. Her team operates specialized quantum sensing infrastructure including confocal NV-magnetometry and home-built scanning systems. The research group comprises: Dr. Ricardo Javier Peña Roman (Postdoctoral researcher) Annegret Elsner (Secretary) Atharva Abhijit Paranjape, Sandip Maity, Olga Shevtsova (PhD students)