Find Academic Supervisors

Caleb KemereView profile

Associate Professor

• Neuroengineering
• Data Science
• Computer Engineering
• +7 more

Caleb Kemere is an Associate Professor in the Departments of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Bioengineering at Rice University. His work bridges neuroscience, engineering, and computer science, focusing on neuroengineering, neural decoding, and real-time brain-computer interfaces. He holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering (with Honors) and a B.A. in Economics from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University. Before joining Rice in 2011, he was a postdoctoral fellow at the Keck Center for Integrative Neurosciences at UCSF. His research explores hippocampal function in spatial navigation and memory, signal processing for neural interfaces, and developing technologies like miniature microscopes and low-power sensors. He has pioneered frameworks such as Spyglass for reproducible neuroscience research and RealtimeDecoder for online neural decoding. Kemere has received prestigious awards including the NSF CAREER Award (2013), HFSP Young Investigator Award (2014), and BRAIN: EAGER Award (2015). His grants include a five-year NSF grant to study Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and a neural engineering IGERT grant. His lab, the Realtime Neural Engineering Lab (RNEL), develops tools for understanding and modulating neural activity. Ongoing work addresses closed-loop brain stimulation, environmental uncertainty modeling in foraging behavior, and sleep-based memory consolidation.

Kim BarakaView profile

Assistant Professor

• Artificial Intelligence
• Human-Robot Interaction
• Reinforcement Learning
• +3 more

Kim Baraka is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, affiliated with the Artificial Intelligence department, Network Institute, and Social AI division. His research focuses on Human-Robot Interaction, Reinforcement Learning, and socially intelligent systems. He co-developed frameworks like SHARPIE for Human-AI collaboration and explores ethical aspects of AI teamwork. Baraka teaches courses on Human-interactive Agent Learning, Robotics, and Socially Intelligent Robotics. He actively contributes to conferences like HRI and ROMAN, publishing on topics ranging from robot curriculum learning to empathetic AI design. Ancillary roles include director of Bara-kadance and board member of Stichting Triplets. Research interests include: Human-AI co-creativity and collaboration Robot learning through human demonstrations Emotional expression in embodied AI Ethical frameworks for human-agent teams Recent work highlights multimodal interaction (e.g., audio-visual speech recognition), prosody-based teaching signals, and proxemics-aware navigation. His 2025 publications emphasize iterative algorithm design for fairness in human-agent teams and systematic reviews of collaborative AI creativity. This research bridges technical advancements with socially responsible AI deployment.

Mariana OrtegaView profile

Associate Professor

• Women of Color Feminisms
• Latina Feminisms
• Continental Philosophy
• +3 more

Mariana Ortega is an Associate Professor of Philosophy and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Pennsylvania State University. Her work bridges continental philosophy with intersectional feminist frameworks, focusing on questions of identity, sociality, and embodied experience in marginalized communities. She is particularly known for her contributions to Latina feminist phenomenology and critical race theory. Her research explores the intersection of aesthetics, memory, and racialized experiences, often engaging with thinkers like Heidegger while centering the lived realities of women of color. Ortega co-edited Constructing the Nation: A Race and Nationalism Reader and authored In-Between: Latina Feminist Phenomenology, Multiplicity, and the Self , which examines the multiplicitous selves of Latinas navigating borderland identities. She founded and directs the Roundtable on Latina Feminism, a key platform for discussions on Latin American and Latina feminisms. Ortega’s current research investigates aesthetics, epistemologies of ignorance, and Latinidad through practices like photography and performance art. Her work critiques colonial and patriarchal frameworks while proposing transformative methodologies rooted in embodied knowledge and decolonial praxis.

• Knowledge Representation
• Spatial and Temporal Cognition
• Multimodal Interaction
• +3 more

Prof. Christopher Habel is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Hamburg, leading the WSV work area. His research focuses on spatial and temporal cognition, multimodal interaction, and accessibility technologies. He holds the formal title of Head of Department WSV and is affiliated with the Faculty of Mathematics, Computer Science and Natural Sciences. Habel's work bridges cognitive science, artificial intelligence, and human-computer interaction with an emphasis on assistive technologies for visually impaired individuals. Key research projects include the CINACS International Research Training Group, exploring auditory-haptic access to spatial graphics, and the development of multimodal comprehension systems integrating text, graphics, and tactile feedback. His contributions span theoretical frameworks in cognitive linguistics and practical implementations of verbal assistance systems for tactile maps and haptic graph exploration. Over 30 years of academic activity is reflected in his extensive publication record (1984–2015), with recent work emphasizing cross-linguistic studies, event recognition in virtual environments, and the design of multimodal interfaces for cognitive robotics. His research integrates computational models with empirical studies on human perception and language processing.

Ian ChurchView profile

Associate Professor

• Ocean Mapping
• Hydrodynamic Modeling
• Marine Habitat Mapping
• +2 more

Dr. Ian Church is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geodesy and Geomatics Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of New Brunswick. He specializes in ocean mapping using acoustics, with primary research interests in integrating hydrodynamic numerical modeling with ocean mapping, marine habitat mapping, acoustic water column interpretation, and evaluating autonomous mapping platforms. His research aims to better understand the marine environment using acoustics and minimize uncertainty in ocean mapping products. Dr. Church received all his degrees (B.Sc.Eng, M.Sc.Eng, Ph.D.) from UNB while working with the Ocean Mapping Group. His professional experience includes operating and managing multibeam sonar systems onboard the coast guard ship Amundsen in the Canadian Arctic (2005-2013), and positions at the University of Southern Mississippi before returning to UNB in 2016. His publications demonstrate consistent focus on hydrographic surveying, ocean mapping technologies, and marine data processing. Recent trends show increased emphasis on AI applications in seabed mapping, advanced sensor technologies, collaborative training programs, and hydrodynamic modeling for coastal management. Dr. Church also contributes to educational initiatives like the COMREN International School on Hydrographic Surveying.

• Francophone Literature
• Immigrant/Refugee Narratives
• Graphic Novels
• +5 more

Tamara El-Hoss is an Associate Professor in the Department of Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures at Brock University. Her research focuses on displacement, graphic novels ( bande dessinée ), and post-colonial Francophone literatures, particularly addressing immigrant/refugee narratives, (de)colonial histories, and cultural hybridity. She holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in French Literature from the University of Toronto and a B.A. in French Studies from York University. Her research interests include beur artistic outputs (literature/film), Maghrebian diaspora identities, and queer perspectives in Francophone contexts. She co-edited Im/migrant Passages: Crossing Visual, Spatial and Textual Boundaries (2020) and has published widely on graphic novels like Black Blanc Beur and films like Mathieu Kassovitz’s La Haine . El-Hoss teaches courses on Francophone cultures, postcolonial literatures, and critical theory. Her graduate supervision emphasizes comparative methodologies and cultural narratives, with notable supervisees examining topics like Maghrebian women’s identity and postcolonial exoticism. Her scholarly work bridges textual analysis with visual and spatial studies, exploring how marginalized voices navigate cultural, linguistic, and political boundaries. Current projects likely expand her focus on transnational cultural dynamics and artistic representations of displacement.

Ellen O. AikensView profile

Assistant Professor

• Wildlife Ecology
• Applied Data Science
• Animal Migration Patterns
• +3 more

Dr. Ellen O. Aikens is an Assistant Professor with a joint appointment at the University of Wyoming's School of Computing and Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources. She holds a PhD in Ecology (University of Wyoming) and a BS in Biology and Environmental Studies (Ursinus College). Her research focuses on quantitative wildlife ecology, integrating animal tracking, remote sensing, and field studies to understand wildlife habitat needs and responses to environmental changes. A key emphasis is on migratory species like ungulates and birds, addressing conservation and management challenges through data-driven approaches. Her research highlights include studying migratory behavior development, social dynamics in animal migrations, and the impact of human activities on migration patterns. Notable projects analyze how ungulates track vegetation phenology ('green waves') and how drought or energy development disrupts these patterns. These studies contribute to large-scale conservation planning and ecological understanding. Publications span topics like migration ecology, climate change impacts, and animal movement tactics. Her work appears in journals such as *Nature Ecology and Evolution*, *Current Biology*, and *Ecology Letters*, emphasizing interdisciplinary methods to bridge ecological theory and applied conservation. Dr. Aikens collaborates across institutions to advance migration science, advocating for experimental approaches and habitat connectivity solutions. Her contributions emphasize applying ecological insights to real-world conservation challenges, particularly for migratory species facing environmental and anthropogenic pressures.

• Spatial Cognition
• Spatial Language
• Spatial Visualizations
• +2 more

Holly Taylor is Moses Hunt Professor of Psychology and Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Tufts University. She directs the Spatial Cognition Lab and co-directs the Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, focusing on human performance optimization. Her research examines mental representations of spatial information, investigating how navigation strategies are shaped by maps, multimedia sources, and environmental factors. Additional work explores nutritional impacts on cognition and stress effects on spatial decision-making. Recent publications demonstrate innovations in augmented reality navigation systems, spatial visualization for STEM education, and cognitive aspects of wayfinding under time pressure. Articles frequently appear in high-impact journals including Journal of Experimental Psychology and PLOS ONE . Sustained grant funding includes the Applied Brain and Cognitive Science Collaborative Effort with the U.S. Army (2019-2029). She teaches courses on spatial cognition, games psychology, and cognitive psychology.

Liza WeinsteinView profile

Associate Professor

• Urban Globalization
• Informality Politics
• Housing Insecurity
• +4 more

Dr. Liza Weinstein is Associate Professor of Sociology and Department Chair at Northeastern University, researching cities, globalization, and urban political economy with focus on India. Her work analyzes housing insecurity, eviction politics, and informality through books like The Durable Slum and ongoing NSF-funded studies on legal exclusion in Mumbai. She holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Chicago. Research examines how urban transformations produce spatial stigma and how communities mobilize against displacement. Current projects investigate non-notified settlements in Mumbai, integrating legal anthropology with embodied experiences of territorial marginalization. Teaching includes courses on Global Markets, Indian Culture/Politics, and Urban Sociology. Professional service involves editorial roles for urban studies journals.

Woodam ChungView profile

Professor

• Forest Operations
• Forest Management
• Forest Planning
• +3 more

Woodam Chung serves as Professor and Stewart Professor of Forest Operations in the College of Forestry at Oregon State University. He leads research in forest operations planning and management, specializing in harvesting systems, biomass utilization, and wildland fire management. His work integrates engineering solutions with sustainable forestry practices. Research interests include forest management planning, steep slope harvesting, tethered equipment applications, biomass logistics, and fuel treatment optimization. Current projects focus on reducing wildfire risks through strategic fuel break networks and enhancing operational efficiency in challenging terrains. Publications demonstrate consistent focus on operational efficiency, environmental impacts, and technological innovation in forestry. Recent work emphasizes tethered harvesting systems, soil disturbance mitigation, computer vision applications, and wildfire risk management strategies. Currently advises seven graduate students on topics spanning forest operations, biomass utilization, and wildfire management. Maintains active collaborations with industry partners and land management agencies.

Lazaros FilippidisView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Evacuation Modelling
• Human Behavior in Emergencies
• Fire Safety Engineering
• +3 more

Lazaros Filippidis is a Senior Lecturer in Evacuation Modelling at the University of Greenwich's School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences , part of the Faculty of Engineering and Science . He joined the institution in 1996 and is a core member of the Fire Safety Engineering Group . His work focuses on advancing EXODUS evacuation models and understanding human behavior during emergencies. Education: Holds a BSc (Hons) and MSc, though specific institutions are not detailed in the provided text. Research Interests: Specializes in human behavior in emergencies , adaptive decision-making , and large-scale evacuation trials . His projects include EU-funded initiatives such as SAFEGUARD , IN-PREP , and GETAWAY , addressing aviation, maritime, and urban evacuation challenges. He has pioneered methodologies for collecting human performance data and validating evacuation models. Publications & Awards: Authored/co-authored over 100 publications, including influential works on signage effectiveness, ship evacuation, and wildfire response. Recognized with the Jack Bono Engineering Communications Award (2008) and two Hodgson Prizes (1998, 2002) for exceptional contributions to fire safety engineering. Advising & Grants: Led major EU projects involving collaboration with industrial partners, managing tight schedules and delivering impactful outputs. Advised on the Horizon 2020 FIRE-IN project. Organized annual Principles and Practice of Evacuation Modelling courses and developed e-learning platforms for international audiences. Labs & Teams: Integral to the Fire Safety Engineering Group, contributing to software development (e.g., airEXODUS , urbanEXODUS ) and live trial protocols for evacuation scenarios. His work bridges academic research with real-world crisis management strategies.

Gino DardanelliView profile

Associate Professor

• Geomatics
• GNSS Systems
• Geodetic Data Analysis
• +4 more

Gino Dardanelli is an Associate Professor in Geomatics at the Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, where he graduated in Civil Engineering and Transport in 2000 and earned his PhD in Geodetic and Topographic Sciences in 2006. His research focuses on advanced geospatial technologies including GNSS networks, laser scanning, satellite imagery analysis, and structural monitoring. Education: PhD in Geodetic and Topographic Sciences, University of Naples Parthenope, 2006 Degree in Civil Engineering and Transport, University of Palermo, 2000 Research Interests: Dardanelli's research addresses the integration of geomatic technologies for environmental and structural analysis. Key areas include multi-GNSS system integration, WebGIS development, laser scanning applications in cultural heritage documentation, high-resolution satellite image processing, and cadastral mapping innovations. Publication Focus: Recent publications demonstrate strong emphasis on coastal monitoring techniques using isoradiometric methods, cultural heritage documentation through 3D modeling, and geodetic network development. The research consistently integrates field measurements with computational analysis for environmental and infrastructural applications. Teaching: Regularly instructs courses including Topography (Civil Engineering), Topography/Cartography (Agricultural Engineering), and Applied Topography Laboratory (Environmental Engineering). Student Supervision: Advises graduate theses on topics including GNSS applications, geological monitoring, and surveying techniques.

• Radar Signal Processing
• Waveform Diversity
• Spectrum Sharing Techniques
• +5 more

Shannon D. Blunt is the Roy A. Roberts Distinguished Professor of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (EECS) at the University of Kansas (KU), where he also serves as Director of the KU Radar Systems Lab (RSL) and Director of the Kansas Applied Research Lab (KARL). With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Prof. Blunt has established himself as a leading expert in radar signal processing and waveform design. Dr. Blunt earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of Missouri, completing his doctorate in 2002 under the supervision of K.C. Ho. After working at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory from 2002-2005, he joined the University of Kansas faculty, where he has remained ever since, advancing to his current distinguished professorship. Prof. Blunt's research focuses on sensor signal processing and system design with particular emphasis on waveform diversity and spectrum sharing techniques. His work has made significant contributions to radar and sonar systems that have been deployed operationally. His research spans radar waveform design, spectrum coexistence, cognitive radar, and the integration of radar and communication systems. The 15 most recent publications demonstrate his continued leadership in random FM radar waveforms, spectrum sharing techniques, and experimental validation of novel radar concepts, with numerous papers appearing in top journals like IEEE Transactions on Radar Systems and presented at major radar conferences. His scientific achievements have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards including the IEEE/AESS Nathanson Memorial Radar Award (2012), IEEE Fellowship (2016), IET Radar, Sonar & Navigation Premium Award (2020), and the IEEE/AESS Warren D. White Award (2025). In 2019, he was appointed to the U.S. President's Council of Advisors on Science & Technology (PCAST), and in 2024 he was named Fellow of the MSS. Prof. Blunt has successfully mentored numerous graduate students, with many of his former PhD students now holding positions at prestigious institutions including MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab, Naval Research Laboratory, and academic positions at the University of Kansas. His research has been supported by over $30M in funding from organizations including NRL, DARPA, AFRL, ARL, ARO, DoE, NAVSEA, and ONR. He has served in significant editorial roles including Founding Editor-in-Chief of IEEE Transactions on Radar Systems and editorial board member for IET Radar, Sonar & Navigation. As Director of both the KU Radar Systems Lab and the Kansas Applied Research Lab, Prof. Blunt leads research teams focused on advancing radar technology and applying it to real-world problems. His labs have developed numerous innovative radar techniques that address spectrum congestion challenges while maintaining radar performance.

Kristina RandView profile

Associate Professor

• Spatial Cognition
• Visual Perception
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• +3 more

Kristina Rand is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Utah, specializing in spatial cognition and visual perception. She directs the Visual Perception and Spatial Cognition Lab , focusing on how perceptual limitations affect navigation and spatial learning. Education: Ph.D. in Psychology (2014), University of Utah; M.S. in Psychology (2009), Montana State University; B.S. in Psychology (2006), University of Oregon. Her research examines spatial memory, environmental complexity, and cognitive adaptations for individuals with visual impairments. Key themes include the interplay between attention, mobility monitoring, and perceptual cues in navigation tasks. Her publications since 2009 highlight applications in accessibility design, human-computer interaction, and aging cognition. Articles analyze spatial learning impairments, distance perception biases, and assistive technologies like physical guidance and low-vision simulations. Contact details include office 630 BEHS and phone 801-581-8081 .

Jonas WestinView profile

Associate Professor

• Mathematical Modeling
• Transportation Economics
• Regional Science
• +3 more

Jonas Westin is an Associate Professor at the Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics and a Research Fellow at the Centre for Regional Science (CERUM) at Umeå University. His research focuses on applying mathematical methods and models to address social science challenges, particularly in transportation, regional development, and environmental policy. He teaches courses in mathematical modeling and project courses for civil engineering students, and is recognized as a university teacher. His research interests include transportation economics, input-output analysis, and operations research, with a focus on optimizing freight networks, evaluating infrastructure policies, and modeling regional accessibility. He has contributed to projects analyzing sustainable aviation, maritime safety, and cross-border infrastructure planning in Northern Europe. Westin collaborates with institutions like Trafikverket (Swedish Transport Administration) and the Nordic countries’ transport networks. His work bridges theoretical mathematical modeling with practical policy analysis, emphasizing the implications of transport policies on regional competitiveness and environmental sustainability. Notable projects include the Botnia-Atlantica corridor analysis and studies on fossil-free regional aviation. Affiliations: Associate Professor, Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics Research Fellow, CERUM (Centre for Regional Science) Key Research Themes: Transportation Network Optimization Regional Economic Impact Analysis Environmental Policy Modeling His recent publications highlight innovative approaches to freight modeling, maritime safety metrics, and cross-border infrastructure coordination. Westin’s interdisciplinary work reflects a commitment to addressing complex societal challenges through rigorous quantitative methods.