Jon Simon is the Joan Reinhart Professor and Professor of Applied Physics at Stanford University . He leads the Simon Lab , which explores the convergence of condensed matter physics , quantum optics , and quantum information science , focusing on creating synthetic materials from light and investigating topological and strongly correlated quantum systems. His research spans constructing photonic materials in quantum circuits, studying small quantum systems with strong correlations, and applying Hamiltonian engineering to realize exotic states of matter. The lab has achieved milestones like the first Mott insulator of photons and topologically insulating circuits . Collaborative projects with the Schuster Lab leverage superconducting quantum circuits for synthetic matter studies. Jon's students include Adam Shaw (PhD, now at Stony Brook) Lavanya Taneja (PhD, now at Atom Computing) Ruichao Ma (Postdoc, now faculty at Purdue) among others. The lab's recent publications focus on cavity arrays, hybrid quantum systems, and topological photonics. Research is supported by grants and affiliations with Stanford's Department of Applied Physics and interdisciplinary institutes.
Kristian Helin is Chief Executive and President of The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London, and a Professor with affiliations at the University of Copenhagen and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He founded/directed the Biotech Research & Innovation Centre (BRIC), Centre for Epigenetics, and Danish Stem Cell Center. His research focuses on epigenetic regulation, cancer biology, and stem cell differentiation. Education: Ph.D. Molecular Biology, University of Copenhagen (1991) M.Sc. Chemical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark (1988) Research Interests: Helin's work deciphers molecular mechanisms in cancer, emphasizing epigenetic drivers (e.g., H3K4/H3K36 methylation), transcriptional control, and therapeutic targeting. His lab identified E2F transcription factors, linked epigenetic dysregulation to leukemia/lymphoma, and develops drugs targeting kinases/epigenetic enzymes. Research spans acute myeloid leukemia, B-cell lymphoma, and solid tumors using CRISPR screens and preclinical models. Publication Trends: Recent articles (2023-2025) focus on epigenetic therapy, chromatin remodeling, and kinase signaling in cancer. Key themes include targeting NSD1/KDM5C/RIOK2 enzymes, combination therapies (EZH2/DOT1L inhibitors), and metabolic regulation in leukemia. Studies bridge basic mechanisms (enhancer regulation, insulator accessibility) with translational applications. Awards: Anders Jahre Prize (2014), ERC Advanced Grant (2011), Novo Nordisk Prize (2008) Memberships: Academia Europaea, Royal Danish Academy, EMBO Leadership: Helin co-founded EpiTherapeutics (acquired by Gilead) and leads the Epigenetics and Cancer lab at ICR. His team investigates AML pathogenesis and chromatin complexes like HUSH/NURF. Grants include ERC funding and innovation prizes.
Prof. Gustau Catalán is an ICREA Research Professor and Group Leader of the Oxide Nanophysics Group at the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2). He earned his PhD in Physics from Queen’s University of Belfast (2001) and held postdoctoral positions at IMEDEA (2002–2004), University of Groningen (2004–2005), and University of Cambridge (2005–2009). Since 2009, he has led pioneering research in flexoelectricity, domain wall physics, and strain-engineered oxide materials, supported by an ERC Grant. Education: PhD in Physics, Queen’s University of Belfast (2001) BSc in Physics, Universitat de Barcelona (1997) Research Interests: Gustau Catalán's work focuses on the interplay between ferroelectricity, flexoelectricity, and metal-insulator transitions in oxide materials. His research explores how these properties manifest at reduced dimensions, with applications in nanoelectronics, photovoltaics, and smart mechanical systems. Key areas include polarization dynamics, domain wall engineering, and strain-gradient effects. Recent Publications (2024–2025): The 15 most recent articles highlight advancements in flexoelectricity (e.g., water ice and halide perovskites), domain wall dynamics (e.g., tungsten trioxide), and strain-gradient-induced photovoltaic effects. These studies span materials like PbZrO3, BaTiO3, and BiFeO3, with implications for energy harvesting, memory devices, and nanoscale actuators. Scientific Awards: ERC Grant for flexoelectricity laboratory establishment Advising and Collaborations: While specific students are not listed, Catalán collaborates extensively with researchers across Europe. His group develops novel oxide-based systems and investigates their electromechanical and optoelectronic properties. Laboratory & Team: At ICN2, he established one of the world's first flexoelectricity laboratories, leading a team that explores oxide nanophysics through advanced characterization techniques like AFM, X-ray diffraction, and electrocaloric imaging.
Beatriz Noheda is a Full Professor of Functional Nanomaterials at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Science and Engineering, where she chairs the Solid State Materials for Electronics group at the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials. She also serves as the founding Director of the Groningen Cognitive Systems and Materials center (CogniGron). Her academic journey began with a PhD in Physics from the Autonomous University of Madrid in 1996, followed by research positions at Brookhaven National Laboratory and various European institutions before joining Groningen through the prestigious Rosalind Franklin Fellowship program in 2004. Her research interests span the physics of functional materials with particular emphasis on ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and multiferroic thin films . She investigates the relationship between structure and functionality, focusing on nano-domain control through strain engineering and the unique properties of domain walls. Her work bridges fundamental physics with two promising application areas: piezoelectric energy harvesting for low-power electronics and the development of novel materials for neuromorphic computing . This dual focus reflects her vision of enabling the next technological revolution through materials science. Noheda's publication record shows a clear evolution from fundamental structural studies of ferroelectric materials toward cutting-edge research in hafnia-based ferroelectrics and neuromorphic computing materials. Her most recent work focuses on oxygen migration in hafnium-zirconium oxide systems, metal-insulator transitions in nickelates, and the development of novel ferroelectric phases suitable for next-generation electronic devices. These publications demonstrate her leadership in advancing the field from basic understanding toward practical applications in memory devices and cognitive computing systems. Fellow of the American Physical Society (2011) - awarded for fundamental structural studies of new phases in perovskite-type ferroelectric materials and domain nanostructures IEEE Robert E. Newnham Ferroelectrics Award (2020) - for outstanding contributions to understanding giant piezoelectricity in lead zirconate titanate Member of the Netherlands Academy of Technology and Innovation (AcTI) (2022) Elected Senior member IEEE (2021) Rosalind Franklin Fellowship (2004) - enabling her successful academic career in Groningen Noheda has secured substantial research funding throughout her career, including a Rosalind Franklin Fellowship (2004-2009), VIDI-NWO Fellowship (2004-2008), TOP-NWO project on Functional Nanowalls (2007-2012), multiple Zernike Institute Dieptestrategie grants, and a significant TOP-PUNT grant (2016-2021). She has supervised numerous students and early-career researchers, contributing to the development of the next generation of materials scientists. Her leadership extends to editorial roles on prestigious journals including Science, Physical Review Applied, and npj Quantum Materials. As Director of CogniGron, Noheda leads an interdisciplinary center focused on developing materials and systems for cognitive computing. Her team combines expertise in functional oxides, nanoelectronics, and neuromorphic engineering to create novel computing paradigms inspired by the human brain. The center represents a strategic initiative at the University of Groningen to position itself at the forefront of cognitive systems research.
Alexei Kitaev is the Ronald and Maxine Linde Professor of Theoretical Physics and Mathematics at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). His research focuses on quantum computation, topological quantum phases, anyons, topological insulators and superconductors, and the black hole information paradox. He has pioneered the concept of topological quantum computation, where quantum information is protected through topological properties of many-body systems. His recent publications explore quantum error correction, scrambling dynamics, and holographic principles in SYK-like models, reflecting his interdisciplinary impact on quantum physics, computer science, and condensed matter. His work on the Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev model has advanced understanding of quantum chaos and gravitational phenomena. Kitaev has received numerous accolades, including the MacArthur Award (2008), Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics (2012), Dirac Medal (2015), and Oliver Buckley Condensed Matter Prize (2017). He has taught advanced courses such as 'Quantum Computation' and 'Advanced Condensed-Matter Physics' at Caltech. Scientific Awards: MacArthur Award (2008) Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics (2012) Dirac Medal (2015) Oliver Buckley Condensed Matter Prize (2017)
Assoc Prof Ng Teng Yong is an Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (NTU), specializing in numerical modeling and simulation. With a background as Research Manager at A*STAR Institute of High Performance Computing, his work spans materials science, nanotechnology, and aerospace engineering. Current focus on graphene-based desalination membranes Expertise in molecular dynamics simulations Investigates nanoscale fluid mechanics and structural dynamics Recent publications highlight advancements in energy-efficient electrodialysis, smart robotics, and nonlinear vibration analysis. His interdisciplinary approach integrates computational methods with experimental validation in additive manufacturing and soft material mechanics.
Julia A. Mundy is the John L. Loeb Associate Professor of the Natural Sciences and Engineering and Applied Sciences at Harvard University. Her research focuses on designing quantum materials at the atomic scale using molecular-beam epitaxy (MBE) to synthesize metastable thin films. She leads the Mundy Group, which explores superconductors, frustrated magnets, and oxide interfaces for quantum and energy applications. Her work bridges materials synthesis, characterization, and fundamental physics. Affiliations: Harvard University, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Applied Physics Department Labs: Mundy Group (LISE 7th floor) Research interests include MBE growth of novel oxides, thin film superconductors, and 2D electronic systems. She has pioneered methods for creating room-temperature multiferroics and discovered superconductivity in layered nickelates. Her group uses advanced tools like aberration-corrected electron microscopy and synchrotron-based spectroscopy. Key achievements include the 2024 Moore Inventor Fellowship, NSF CAREER Award, and Packard Fellowship. Her work on transparent superconductors and fluoride-ion battery materials highlights interdisciplinary impact. Notable Grants: DOE Early Career Award, NSF MRI funding for LEEM/PEEM microscopy Team: 15+ current members including graduate students, postdocs, and undergraduates
Jiwoong Park is Professor of Chemistry and Chair of the Department of Chemistry at the University of Chicago, and simultaneously Professor of Molecular Engineering in the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering. His interdisciplinary research group, the Park Group, is jointly affiliated with the James Franck Institute and the Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at UChicago, and operates from the Gordon Center for Integrative Science. Education & Training Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley (2003) B.S., Seoul National University (1996) Junior Fellow, Rowland Institute, Harvard University (2003–2006) Assistant → Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University (2006–2016) Research Interests Park’s research centers on the science and technology of precisely engineered nanomaterials, particularly atomically-thin two-dimensional (2D) crystals and van der Waals solids. Spanning chemistry, physics, materials science and electrical engineering, his group develops novel synthetic, imaging and characterization techniques to uncover new physical phenomena and translate them into scalable device technologies. Key thrusts include growth of wafer-scale molecular crystals, optical and transport spectroscopy of 2D semiconductors, mechanical behavior of polycrystalline nanomembranes, and integration of these materials into photonic, electronic and energy-harvesting devices. Scientific Awards Elected Fellow of the American Physical Society (2022) – “for the development of synthetic, imaging, and characterization techniques of atomically thin materials and the discovery of novel properties of van der Waals solids.” Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher (2023) – recognition for multiple papers ranking in the global top 1% by citations in Materials Science and Chemistry. Group & Collaborations The Park Group is an interdisciplinary team of postdocs, graduate researchers and undergraduates housed in the Gordon Center for Integrative Science. The group actively collaborates with colleagues across the Department of Chemistry, Department of Physics, and the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, leveraging shared facilities at the James Franck Institute and MRSEC to push the frontiers of 2D material science.
Peng Xiong is a Professor in the Department of Physics at Florida State University, with a research focus on electron and spin transport in low-dimensional quantum materials. He is affiliated with the Integrative NanoScience Institute (INSI) and has made significant contributions to mesoscale physics, spintronics, and organic/solid-state hybrid systems. B.S. in Physics (1987, University of Science and Technology of China) Ph.D. in Physics (1993, Brown University) Postdoctoral Fellowship (1993-1997, University of California at San Diego) Research Interests: Mesoscale Physics: Quantum phase transitions and fluctuation effects in 2D and 1D systems, semiconductor nanowires, carbon nanotubes, and nano-magnetism. Spintronics: Spin-polarized transport in hybrid structures (ferromagnet/normal metal, ferromagnet/superconductor, ferromagnet/semiconductor), magnetic semiconductors, and spin injection/detection. Organic/Solid-State Hybrids: Nanoscale biosensors utilizing magnetic and electrical principles, bio-mechanical devices, organic/solid interfaces, and template-directed nanostructure self-assembly. Publication Trends: His recent work spans superconducting fluctuations in ultrathin films, chirality-induced spin transport in semiconductors, interplay between structural chirality and spin-orbital effects, ion migration dynamics in 1D hybrids, quantum interference in nanowire loops, and modulation of nanomaterial properties through surface defect engineering. These studies often combine material synthesis, nanofabrication, cryogenic transport, and tunneling measurements. Scientific Recognition: Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship (1998) University Teaching Award (2003) PAI Award for Excellence (2004) Developing Scholar Award (2007) Fellow of the American Physical Society (2012) Advising Legacy: He has mentored numerous graduate students including Jeffrey Parker (Ph.D. 2003) Yongqing Li (Ph.D. 2003) Tianhan Liu (Ph.D. 2021) Jacob Hudis (Ph.D. 2021) and continues to guide current candidates like Yuwaraj Adhikari and Zhenqi Hua. Experimental Facilities: The lab at FSU features advanced equipment for nano-fabrication, including clean rooms, mask aligners, and thin film deposition systems. Cryogenic capabilities extend to dilution refrigerators (15 mK) and He3/He4 cryostats for ultralow-temperature studies of magnetic and superconducting systems.
Simo Hostikka is a Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Aalto University's School of Engineering. His research focuses on fire safety engineering , utilizing numerical fire simulations to address critical challenges in building and infrastructure safety. Key Expertise: Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) development, thermal radiation heat transfer, pyrolysis modeling, fire toxicity calculations, and probabilistic risk analysis. Leadership: Supervises advanced fire safety research and contributes to international fire safety standards. Research Trends: Recent publications emphasize fire toxicity modeling , hydrogen fire safety , radiation heat transfer , and fire retardancy of polymeric materials . His work bridges computational methods with real-world fire safety applications. Scientific Awards: Philip Thomas Medal of Excellence (2008, 2005) Sjölin Award (2012) Interflam Trophy (2007) Harmathy Award (2020, 2019) Dean’s Award for Best MSc Thesis (2020) Best Paper in Rakenteiden Mekaniikka (2009) Advising: Supervised Topi Sikanen, who received the Young Talent Award from the International Water Mist Association.
Jun Liu is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University at Buffalo. His research focuses on advanced energy materials, nano/micro-mechanics, and self-powered systems, with applications in triboelectric energy harvesting and scanning probe microscopy. Education: PhD, Materials Engineering, University of Alberta (2018) MS, Materials Science, Shanghai University (2015) BE, Materials Science and Engineering, Nanchang University (2012) Research Interests: Development of tribovoltaic and triboelectric systems for self-powered electronics Mechanical energy harvesting via dynamic heterojunctions and Schottky contacts 3D-printed hydrogel structures for energy absorption and flexible electronics Nanoscale characterization using atomic force microscopy Design of nanocomposite sensors and catalytic materials Publication Trends: His work emphasizes triboelectricity, nanoscale energy conversion, and sustainable materials. Recent articles explore bionic tactile sensing, tunable hydrogels, and quantum dynamics in sliding interfaces. Awards: SONY Faculty Innovation Award (2021) Nature Springer MINE Young Scientist Award (2020) International Contest of Applications in Nano/Micro Technology Prize (2013) Laboratory: Advanced Energy Materials and Nanomechanics Lab at University at Buffalo.
Dr. Robert O’Connor is an Assistant Professor at the School of Physical Sciences, Dublin City University (DCU) , specializing in interface chemistry and thin film characterization. His work bridges semiconductor physics and energy harvesting technologies , with a focus on materials like high-κ dielectrics and III-V substrates. BSc in Applied Physics (2001), DCU PhD in Semiconductor Physics (2005), DCU His research employs X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic layer deposition (ALD) to study material interfaces in devices such as MOSFETs and photoelectrochemical systems . He leads a 4-year SFI-funded project on solar water splitting for hydrogen fuel and collaborates with Trinity College Dublin (SPOKE project) and IMEC, Belgium on area-selective deposition techniques. His lab utilizes a state-of-the-art integrated ALD-XPS tool . His scientific awards include the Marie Curie Intra-European Fellowship , Irish Research Council EMBARK Fellowship , and SFI TIDA Award . Publications span high-κ dielectrics , self-assembled monolayers , and block copolymer lithography , with recent work on graphene oxide heterostructures and recyclability in additive manufacturing . He supervises 5 postgraduate students and teaches modules like Final Year Project (PS451) and Solid State Physics I (PS204) . Collaborations include institutions such as IMEC and Trinity College Dublin , with tools like the integrated ALD-XPS system at DCU.
Srdjan Lukic is the Deputy Director of the FREEDM Systems Center and a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at North Carolina State University. His research focuses on power electronics, power systems, and electric vehicle infrastructure. He holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology (2007). His work emphasizes high-power converters, DC microgrids, and extreme fast charging (XFC) technologies for electric vehicles. Recent projects include the development of a 13.2 kV solid-state transformer for EV XFC stations and resilient distributed control frameworks for smart grids. He has contributed to wireless charging systems and modular medium-voltage fast chargers. Key Awards: University Faculty Scholars (2022) Grants: DOE-funded XFC projects, modular EV charging infrastructure Labs/Teams: FREEDM Systems Center, RIAPS control architecture development Publications highlight innovations in microgrid control, power electronics modeling, and privacy-preserving distributed systems. His work addresses grid resilience, cyber-physical integration, and high-efficiency energy conversion.
CHONG Yidong is a Professor in the Division of Physics and Applied Physics at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. He leads the Centre for Disruptive Photonic Technologies and holds positions in the School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. His research focuses on theoretical photonics, topological systems, and non-Hermitian physics, with contributions to photonic crystals, topological insulators, and coherent perfect absorbers. He has been recognized with awards including the President's Science Award (2020) and the National Research Foundation Fellowship (2012). Education: Ph.D. (Physics), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2005–2008) B.Sc. (Physics) and B.Sc. (Mathematical & Computational Sciences), Stanford University (1999–2003) Research Interests: Topological photonics, non-Hermitian systems, photonic topological insulators, PT-symmetric structures, and applications in quantum optics and acoustics. Recent Articles: Focus on experimental realizations of topological lasers, exceptional points in non-Hermitian systems, and higher-order topological phenomena in acoustic and photonic platforms. His work bridges theory and experiment, with collaborations in materials science and electrical engineering. Awards: Extensive recognition for both research and education, including Nanyang Research and Education Awards. Teaching: Courses in mathematical methods for scientists, quantum mechanics, and computational physics, emphasizing numerical techniques and wave phenomena.
Peter A. Jones is President and Chief Scientific Officer at the Van Andel Institute (VAI) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he leads the Department of Epigenetics. He previously served as Director of the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center from 1993 to 2011 and has been a central figure in advancing epigenetics research, particularly in cancer. His laboratory investigates DNA methylation, chromatin dynamics, and epigenetic therapies. Research Interests: Dr. Jones's work centers on epigenetic mechanisms in cancer, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, nucleosome positioning, and the therapeutic potential of epigenetic drugs. His research has pioneered the use of DNA methylation inhibitors like 5-azacytidine and explored viral mimicry as a mechanism for immune activation in cancer. He also studies transposable elements and their role in gene regulation and immune response. Publication Trends: His recent publications (2021–2024) reveal a strong focus on the interplay between epigenetics and immunotherapy, particularly how DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTi) induce viral mimicry, enhance immune recognition, and improve responses to checkpoint blockade. Studies span hematological malignancies, solid tumors, and T cell biology, with frequent collaboration with Stephen Baylin and others. Scientific Awards: Member, National Academy of Sciences Member, National Academy of Medicine Fellow, AACR Academy Fellow, AAAS Fellow, American Academy of Arts and Sciences Kirk A. Landon Award for Basic Cancer Research (2009) Medal of Honor, American Cancer Society (2011) Outstanding Investigator Grant, NCI Harvey Prize (2024) Advising and Grants: Dr. Jones mentors multiple postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and research scientists. His lab is supported by major grants, including the VAI-SU2C Epigenetics Dream Team, which has launched 15 clinical trials. He has received sustained funding from the National Cancer Institute and collaborates with institutions worldwide to advance epigenetic therapies. Labs and Teams: He leads the Peter Jones Laboratory at VAI, a multidisciplinary team investigating epigenetic regulation in cancer. The lab includes computational biologists, clinical researchers, and molecular biologists, working on both basic mechanisms and translational applications. The team is part of larger collaborative initiatives such as the VAI-SU2C Epigenetics Dream Team and the International Linked Clinical Trials Program.
