Boris Murmann is Professor at Stanford University, specializing in integrated circuit design, mixed-signal computing, and energy-efficient AI hardware. His research advances neural interface technologies, analog design automation, and tinyML systems. Recent work develops ultra-low-power neural recording ICs for brain-computer interfaces, RRAM-based memory systems, and open-source semiconductor design frameworks. Publications demonstrate innovations in compressive sensing for neural data, hardware-algorithm co-design, and reinforcement learning for analog circuit synthesis. Significant contributions include Medusa (TinyML processor), EMBER (RRAM macro), and methodologies for coarsely-quantized computer vision and analog design automation.
Dr. Joseph Dumpler is a Lecturer at the Department of Health Sciences and Technology at ETH Zürich, specializing in Sustainable Food Processing. He holds a PhD in Dairy Science and Technology from the Technical University of Munich, Weihenstephan, with a focus on UHT treatment of concentrated milk. His work emphasizes advancing food processing technologies, particularly in protein refinement, non-thermal methods, and membrane filtration. Educations: PhD in Dairy Science and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Weihenstephan (2017) MSc Food Engineering, Technical University of Munich, Weihenstephan His research interests include Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) for plant protein extraction, microwave vacuum drying of dairy products, and membrane filtration optimization for microalgae and dairy systems. He has pioneered methods to refine rapeseed and pea proteins while minimizing antinutrients, and his work on microfiltration of milk products addresses emerging microbial risks. Key contributions span kinetic modeling of heat-induced protein aggregation, sustainable food processing , and non-thermal concentration techniques . His articles reflect a focus on bridging lab-scale innovations with industrial applications. Awards: J.T.M. Wouters Young Scientist Award Julius Maggi Research Award (2018) Best PhD Thesis Award from the Association of Dairy, Food and Biotechnologists (Weihenstephan) Dr. Dumpler collaborates with industry partners to translate research into scalable processes, such as NADES-based protein extraction and microwave drying systems. His current role at ETH Zürich’s Sustainable Food Processing Lab (Prof. Mathys) focuses on plant-based meat analogs and novel protein refining concepts .
Professor John Wildman is a research-active faculty member at Newcastle University specializing in public health economics and health inequalities, with particular focus on social prescribing interventions and socioeconomic determinants of health in the North East of England. His core research interests include: Public Health Health Economics Health Inequalities Social Prescribing Epidemiology Health Policy Wildman's recent work demonstrates methodological rigor through quasi-experimental designs and longitudinal analyses to evaluate complex health interventions, particularly examining how austerity policies, welfare reforms, and community-based programs like social prescribing impact vulnerable populations. His publications consistently address real-world health disparities with policy-relevant findings, especially regarding deaths of despair in deindustrialized communities, maternal mental health, and chronic disease management. No scientific awards are documented in the available publication records. He maintains extensive collaborative networks within Newcastle University's public health research ecosystem, notably with Dr Josephine Wildman and Professor Clare Bambra, securing research funding for projects investigating social prescribing efficacy, health inequality drivers, and pandemic-related health outcomes. His work directly informs NHS commissioning practices and health equity initiatives in deprived UK communities. Wildman contributes to Newcastle's research infrastructure through involvement in multidisciplinary teams focused on health services evaluation and socioeconomic determinants of health, with particular emphasis on translating evidence into community-level interventions for marginalized populations.
Eetu Mäkelä is a Professor of Digital Humanities at the University of Helsinki, leading the research group at the Helsinki Centre for Digital Humanities. He focuses on computational methods in humanities and social sciences, including datafication and interdisciplinary collaboration. He serves as Technical Director of DARIAH-FI and a Research Programme Director at the Helsinki Institute for Social Sciences and Humanities. Currently, he heads the preparatory group for the Helsinki Liberal Arts and Sciences Bachelor’s Programme. His research emphasizes technological and theoretical foundations of computational research, with notable contributions to linked open data, sociolinguistic analysis, and historical text mining. He has developed widely used tools like Recon, Palladio, and Octavo, which are employed in academic and public sectors. His work has garnered over 20 awards, including best paper and open science recognitions. Key areas of expertise include digital humanities methodologies, data integration, and open science practices. He actively contributes to teaching, designing courses such as 'Methods for Digital Humanities' and demonstrating innovative pedagogical approaches. His recent projects involve analyzing 18th-century philosophical texts and sociolinguistic change using computational methods. Awards: Multiple best paper awards, open data awards, and open science awards. Grants/Advising: Leads research initiatives funded by the Academy of Finland and other bodies. Mentors interdisciplinary research teams but no specific student names listed. He maintains active roles in academic infrastructure, including the DARIAH-FI initiative and the Helsinki Institute’s datafication program. His work bridges technical innovation with humanities scholarship, emphasizing practical, enduring systems for academic and public use.
Jeffery A. Jenkins is a Provost Professor of Public Policy, Political Science, and Law at the University of Southern California’s Sol Price School of Public Policy, and holds the Maria B. Crutcher Professorship in Citizenship and Democratic Values. He directs the Political Institutions and Political Economy (PIPE) Collaborative and edits the Journal of Political Institutions and Political Economy and the Journal of Historical Political Economy . Previously, he served as Editor in Chief of The Journal of Politics (2015-2020) and founded the Southern California Political Institutions and Political Economy Working Group. His research focuses on American political history, particularly the development of congressional and partisan institutions, and the political economy of historical policy decisions. His major works include Republican Party Politics and the American South, 1865-1968 (Cambridge University Press, 2020), which won the 2021 V.O. Key Award and J. David Greenstone Prize, and Congress and the First Civil Rights Era, 1861-1918 (University of Chicago Press, 2021), awarded the 2023 V.O. Key Award. He co-edited The Oxford Handbook of Historical Political Economy (2024) and oversees a book series on historical political economy with Cambridge University Press. Roles: Editor in Chief of Broadstreet , a historical political economy blog, and host of the podcast P.S. You’re Interesting . Awards: Multiple book prizes recognizing contributions to political science and historical analysis. Research Themes: Reconstruction-era policies, civil rights legislation, Southern Republicanism, and institutional development. His recent articles explore topics such as presidential favoritism in grant allocation, historical disenfranchisement strategies, and the evolution of congressional partisan tactics. Jenkins’ work bridges historical analysis with modern political questions, emphasizing long-term institutional dynamics and their implications for contemporary governance.
Orly Linovski is an Associate Professor in the Department of City Planning at the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Architecture. Her work bridges professional planning practice, political processes, and urban space, emphasizing equity and justice. She holds a PhD from UCLA and advanced degrees from the University of Toronto and McGill University. Education: PhD (Urban Planning), University of California, Los Angeles M.Sc. (Urban Planning), University of Toronto B.A. (Geography/Urban Systems), McGill University Research focuses on transportation equity, private sector consulting roles, and municipal governance. Notable themes include equity in transit planning, professional practice dynamics in publicly traded firms, and participatory engagement strategies. Her work has been funded by SSHRC, MITACS, and the Centre for Professional and Applied Ethics. Teaching includes courses like Transportation and Urban Form (ARCG 7080) and Planning Research Methods (CITY 7020). She supervises students exploring transportation equity, professional planning practice, or privatization in planning, particularly with GIS or qualitative methods. Grants and Awards: Her research has been supported by SSHRC, MITACS, and other institutions. Collaborations include projects like the SSHRC-funded study on transit equity for marginalized groups in Canada. Labs/Teams: Active in the Manitoba Professional Planners Institute and as a Registered Professional Planner. Engaged in community-based research through partnerships highlighted in her SSHRC-funded projects.
David Lillis is an Associate Professor in the School of Computer Science at University College Dublin (UCD). His research focuses on Natural Language Processing (NLP), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and their applications in legal and forensic contexts. He leads projects like CeADAR (Ireland’s Applied AI Center) and the Transpire project, collaborating with organizations such as Corlytics and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. He holds adjunct roles as a Guest Professor at Beijing University of Technology’s Data Mining and Security Lab and has been a Fulbright Scholar at the University of New Haven’s Cyber Forensics Research and Education Group. Education: B.A. (Hons) in Law and Accounting, University of Limerick Higher Diploma in Computer Science, UCD M.Sc., Ph.D. in Computer Science, UCD Professional Certificate in University Teaching & Learning, UCD Research Interests: Legal AI, digital forensics, machine learning, multi-agent systems, and information retrieval. Recent work includes NLP for regulatory analysis, crop yield prediction via neural networks, and AR-driven decision support systems. Grants & Projects: Principal Investigator: Transpire (AI Platform for Regulation) SFI Funded Investigator: CONSUS (Crop Optimization) PI: CeADAR Technology Centre Teaching roles include Deputy Programme Director for Software Engineering at Beijing-Dublin International College (BDIC) since 2014. Labs & Groups: UCD Forensics and Security Research Group, ML-Labs (SFI Centre for ML Training), and the Data Mining and Security Lab (BJUT).
David Peeters is an Associate Professor at Tilburg University's Department of Communication and Cognition, part of the Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences. His research focuses on multimodal communication, multilingualism, and digital communication, leveraging immersive virtual reality (VR) technologies combined with EEG, eye-tracking, and fMRI. He explores neurobiological underpinnings of language, including neuropragmatics, non-verbal communication, and multilingualism. His work is supported by grants such as the NWO Veni and Tilburg University Fund. Peeters teaches courses on virtual reality, language psychology, and digital literature integration in education. He is a Research Fellow at the Donders Institute and President of the Tilburg Young Academy. Key research interests include the role of gesture and iconicity in second language acquisition, bilingual language switching in immersive environments, and the impact of dataism on academic publishing. He collaborates with libraries and schools to integrate digital literature into curricula and public collections. His scientific awards include the NWO Veni Grant and a Fellowship from the International Max Planck Research School for Language Sciences. His research bridges cognitive science, linguistics, and technology, emphasizing ecologically valid experimental paradigms.
Eleanor O'Rourke is an Associate Professor at Northwestern University with joint appointments in the Department of Computer Science and the Learning Sciences, part of the McCormick School of Engineering. She co-directs the Delta Lab, focusing on interdisciplinary research in Human-Computer Interaction, Artificial Intelligence, and Learning Sciences. Her work examines how learning environments can foster motivation and effective practices in computer science education, supported by grants from NSF and Google. Educated at the University of Washington (PhD, MS in Computer Science & Engineering) and Colby College (BS in Computer Science and Spanish), her research employs mixed methods, including design-based research and grounded theory, to study student motivation, affective responses during programming, and AI-driven interventions. Notable contributions include tools like Ply and Isopleth , which support novice web developers, and studies on student self-assessment biases and growth mindset incentives. Her work has been recognized with multiple Best Paper Awards at ACM conferences, including ICER 2024 and SIGCSE 2022. She teaches courses such as Transformative AI and the Learning Sciences and Design of Learning Environments , and advises a diverse cohort of PhD students and undergraduates. The Delta Lab’s collaborative approach emphasizes innovation in educational technology and human-centered design.
Crytal Lee is an Assistant Professor in Computational Media and Design at MIT, with a joint appointment in the Schwarzman College of Computing and Comparative Media Studies/Writing. She is also a Faculty Associate at Harvard's Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society, co-leading the Ethical Tech Working Group, and a Senior Fellow at Mozilla's Responsible Computing Challenge. Her research focuses on data visualization, disability studies, and ethical technology, emphasizing the 'life-cycle of data representations.' Education: PhD in History, Anthropology, Science, Technology, and Society from MIT (2022); MA and BA (High Honors) in History of Science from Stanford University (2016 and 2015). Research Interests : Crystal examines how data is curated, visualized, and contested, with a particular lens on disability justice and accessible design. Her work bridges STS, HCI, and critical data studies, addressing issues like misinformation, algorithmic bias, and inclusive technology. Awards & Grants : Honorable Mentions at EuroVis 2022 and CHI 2021; NSF Dissertation Improvement Grant; SSRC Social Data Fellowship. Advising & Mentorship : Advised projects on accessible visualization, participatory AI, and disability inclusion. Current book project: Crip Computation . Labs & Teams : Co-leads Ethical Tech Working Group at Berkman Klein; involved in MIT's Data + Feminism Lab and Accessible Interactions projects.
Somayeh Dodge is an Associate Professor of Spatial Data Science in the Department of Geography at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). She leads the MOVE Lab and serves as Co-Associate Director of the UCSB Center for Spatial Studies and Data Science. Her research focuses on computational movement analysis, spatiotemporal data science, and the application of these tools to study human and ecological systems. She holds editorial roles in major journals including Journal of Spatial Information Science and Geographical Analysis. Education: PhD in GIScience (University of Zurich, 2011), MS in GIS Engineering (K.N.Toosi University of Technology, 2005), and BS in Geomatics Engineering (2003). Postdoctoral work at The Ohio State University and University of Zurich. Prior faculty positions include University of Minnesota (2016–2019) and University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (2013–2016). Research interests include wildfire impact analysis, mobility patterns during disasters, environmental vulnerability modeling, and geovisualization techniques. Her NSF CAREER project explores movement responses to environmental disruptions. Teaching focuses on GIScience, movement analytics, and spatial modeling courses. Awards: 2021 NSF CAREER Award and 2022 AAG Emerging Scholar Award. Active in editorial boards for multiple journals and serves on the Board of Directors for the University Consortium for Geographic Information Science (UCGIS). Advising: Supervises 7 graduate students in mobility analytics and environmental modeling. Labs/Teams: MOVE Lab (https://move.geog.ucsb.edu/) focuses on computational movement ecology and human mobility studies.
Dr. Natalie Simpson is Professor and Associate Dean for Graduate Programs at the University at Buffalo's School of Management, Department of Operations Management and Strategy. She holds a PhD and MBA from the University of Florida, and a BFA from North Carolina School of the Arts. Her research explores emergency response systems , supply chain logistics , and educational technology , with particular focus on operational challenges in crisis management. She investigates hyper-project coordination in emergency contexts and resource allocation frameworks for incident commanders. Simpson's scholarly contributions show strong emphasis on: Modeling emergency response operations and supply chain vulnerabilities Developing pedagogical innovations for operations management education Analyzing healthcare workflow efficiency and disaster management systems Her extensive recognition includes: Decision Sciences Institute's Best Case Studies Award (2005) National Instructional Innovation Award (2004) SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching (2002) Grinter Fellowship and Matherly Scholarship As Academic Director of Digital Access Education, she leads technology-enhanced learning initiatives and advises graduate programs. Administrative responsibilities include heading the Digital Access Working Group and serving on editorial boards for Decision Sciences.
Sean McGinnis serves as a Professor of Practice and Director of the Green Engineering Program within the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Virginia Tech's College of Engineering. His academic and professional endeavors focus on advancing sustainable engineering practices through education, research, and industry collaboration. Dr. McGinnis earned his educational qualifications from prestigious institutions: a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science from the University of Minnesota, followed by a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Stanford University. His research program is centered on Green Engineering principles, with specific expertise in Life Cycle Assessment, Sustainable Manufacturing Processes, Design for Environment, Carbon Footprint Analysis, Renewable Energy systems, and Interdisciplinary Education methodologies. He has pioneered courses such as Introduction to Green Engineering (ENGR 3124) and Environmental Life Cycle Analysis (ENGR 4134) that equip students with tools to evaluate environmental impacts across product lifecycles. His Earth Sustainability course (UCCS 2984) further extends this interdisciplinary approach to broader societal challenges. Analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent trajectory toward sustainable technology innovation, particularly in the life cycle assessment of nanomaterials and waste streams. Recent work examines circular economy models for nanowaste recycling, environmental implications of nanoparticle synthesis, and the development of optical systems that mitigate harmful blue light exposure while maintaining visual performance. This research bridges materials science, environmental engineering, and human health considerations. Professional recognition for Dr. McGinnis includes: LEED AP BD&C certification Life Cycle Assessment Certified Professional designation Johnson & Johnson Standards of Leadership Award (2003) In his leadership capacity as Director of the Green Engineering Program, Dr. McGinnis oversees curriculum development that integrates sustainability across engineering disciplines. He has published on educational methodologies for assessing interdisciplinary integration of green engineering knowledge and has organized introductory green engineering courses for undergraduates. His work extends to operational phase life cycle assessment of facilities and sustainable provision of food and water systems.
Jas Brooks is an incoming Assistant Professor at MIT's Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) and the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), starting Fall 2026. They completed a PhD in Computer Science at the University of Chicago under Prof. Pedro Lopes, focusing on perceptual engineering—designing interfaces to modulate human sensory perception. Their work addresses challenges in power efficiency and miniaturization for senses like taste, touch, and smell, enabling applications in health, safety, and immersive experiences. Research interests span HCI, olfactory interfaces, thermal feedback systems, and wearable technology. Notable publications include Best Paper Awards at CHI 2020 and CHI 2021, and Honorable Mentions at UIST 2023 and UIST 2021. Awards include the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, Siebel Scholar, and Rising Star in EECS. Brooks has presented at MIT, UCSD, and international symposia, including a keynote at the 'New Metabolism' event. They co-organized workshops on smell/taste interfaces (STT21, STT23) and led projects like the Timeless Smell Archive and Smell & Paste prototyping toolkit. Teaching includes a graduate VR course at SAIC and contributions to sensory education via the CBORG initiative. Labs/teams include Pedro Lopes' research group at UChicago and collaborations with institutions like the Media Archaeology Lab. Current projects explore adaptive EMS systems, thermal feedback wearables, and historical scent technologies.
Professor Graham Sander is a Professor of Hydrology at Loughborough University, affiliated with the School of Civil and Building Engineering. His research focuses on mathematical modeling of soil erosion, unsaturated soil flow, contaminant transport dynamics, and nonlinear diffusion-convection equations. He leads the NERC-funded project on multi-dimensional soil erosion and chemical transport, collaborating with Lancaster University’s Department of Environmental Science. His academic qualifications include a BSc (Hons) and PhD. Recent research emphasizes integrating particle size-selective models to predict sediment and contaminant delivery to water bodies, supported by lab and field experiments. He has also pioneered pseudospectral methods for infiltration modeling and explored flood risk management through nature-based solutions like leaky barriers. Key contributions include advancing understanding of rainfall-driven erosion dynamics, including splash effects and rock fragment coverage impacts. His work spans experimental hydrology, numerical simulation, and interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges. He co-edits hydrology journals and advocates for rigorous scientific communication in the field. Grants: NERC-funded soil erosion project, Australian Research Council project on unsaturated soil flow. Labs/Teams: Collaborator with Lancaster University’s Environmental Science Department.
