Daniil Riabov is a Doctoral Assistant at the Bionanophotonic Systems Laboratory (BIOS) within the School of Engineering at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) . He is currently affiliated with the Institute of Bioengineering (IBI-STI) and serves as a student in EPFL's Doctoral Program in Photonics . Active Researcher in Nanophotonics and Optical Engineering Focus on Bound States in the Continuum (BIC), Raman Scattering, and Metasurfaces Expertise in Silicon Nanostructures and Photothermal Effects His recent publications highlight advancements in nonlinear optical effects, light-to-heat conversion, and hybrid optoelectronic materials. While no scientific awards are listed, his work bridges nanophotonics, quantum optics, and materials science. He also contributes to the Doctoral Program in Photonics as a student.
Alexander Samokhvalov is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Morgan State University. He is affiliated with the DOD Center of Excellence for Advanced Electro-Photonics with 2D Materials. His academic journey includes a B.Sc. and M.Sc. from Novosibirsk State University (Russia), a Ph.D. from the Weizmann Institute of Science (Israel), and postdoctoral positions at Duke University, UCSB, Auburn University, and Rutgers University. His research focuses on high-resolution spectroscopic methods, nanomaterials, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and their applications in drug delivery, environmental remediation, and energy materials. Dr. Samokhvalov has pioneered ultra-high resolution solid-state synchronous luminescence spectroscopy and holds a U.S. patent (2021) related to this method. He has secured major grants from the Army Research Laboratory and NIH, and his work is widely published in peer-reviewed journals. Education: B.Sc./M.Sc. Chemistry, Novosibirsk State University, Russia (1992) Ph.D. Chemistry, Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel (2002) Research Interests: Development of advanced spectroscopic techniques (e.g., synchronous luminescence) Nanomaterials for drug delivery and environmental applications MOF-based sorbents for ultraclean fuels and toxin remediation 2D materials (WSe₂, WS₂) optoelectronic properties Grants & Collaborations: Funding from ARL and NIH supports studies on EMI shielding, MOF encapsulation, and nanocomposite sorbents. Active collaborations include DOD initiatives and industry partnerships. Labs/Teams: Leads the Advanced Spectroscopy and Nanomaterials group at Morgan State, contributing to the DOD Center of Excellence's mission in electro-photonics and 2D materials.
Tinko Eftimov is a distinguished academic with a career spanning multiple institutions, including Sofia University, the Technical University of Sofia, Helsinki University of Technology, and the University of Quebec at Outaouais (UQO). He holds a B.S. and M.S. in Engineering Physics from Sofia University and a Ph.D. in Physics from the Technical University of Sofia. His academic roles include Professorships at the Faculty of Physics (Sofia University, 2006–2016) and UQO (2002–2005), alongside researcher and postdoctoral positions. His work focuses on optical fibers, fiber optic sensors, fluorescence studies, and luminescent materials. Education: B.S./M.S. in Engineering Physics, Department of Quantum Electronics, Faculty of Physics, Sofia University (1982) Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics Department, Technical University of Sofia (1989) Research interests center on polarization matrix methods, optical fiber components, sensor instrumentation, and the application of smartphone-based technologies for spectral and luminescence analysis. His recent work explores luminescent materials for optical tags, smartphone-readable sensors, and affordable spectral measurement systems. Publications highlight advancements in fiber optic current sensors, phosphorescent temperature sensors, and biosensors for medical diagnostics. His contributions span material synthesis, sensor design, and interdisciplinary applications in food, environmental, and biomedical analysis. Ongoing work emphasizes low-cost, field-deployable optical systems. Notably, his research bridges fundamental physics with practical sensor technologies, addressing challenges in environmental monitoring, food quality assessment, and medical diagnostics. His labs have developed portable sensor platforms using long-period gratings and smartphone integration, enhancing accessibility in resource-limited settings.
Martin Margittai is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Denver's College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. His research focuses on protein aggregation mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. He holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Freie Universität Berlin (2001), an MS (1997), and a BS (1995) from the same institution. Ph.D., Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 2001 MS, Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 1997 BS, Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 1995 His research interests include the structural and dynamic aspects of tau protein aggregation, molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, and the application of biophysical techniques such as Raman spectroscopy and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). He studies how tau fibrils form, interact with cellular components, and propagate pathology. Recent work explores the role of RNA binding, redox regulation, and extracellular vesicles in disease progression. His publications highlight advancements in understanding tau conformational variants, fibril stability, and cross-seeding barriers between tau isoforms. These studies contribute to identifying biomarkers and therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's and related disorders. Margittai is affiliated with the American Chemical Society and the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. His teaching spans undergraduate and graduate courses in biochemistry and chemistry.
Matthew D. Sonntag is an Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Albright College. He holds a B.A. from Coe College (2008) and a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Northwestern University (2013), followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Northwestern. His research focuses on Raman spectroscopy to study material properties, including glassy substances and single-molecule dynamics. He has developed physical chemistry laboratories and collaborates with undergraduates, emphasizing hands-on research. Dr. Sonntag has received the Class of ’49 Annadora Vesper Shirk Award for Faculty Scholarship and the Jean Dreyfus Boissevain Lectureship. He teaches courses like Quantum Mechanics and Spectroscopy, and has authored/co-authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications. His lab explores glass structure reactivity and surface-enhanced Raman techniques. He has secured grants including NSF awards for undergraduate STEM scholarships and instrumentation. Education: B.A., Coe College (2008); Ph.D., Northwestern University (2013); Postdoctoral Fellowship, Northwestern University (2013-2014) Grants: Jean Dreyfus Boissevain Lectureship ($18,500), NSF ACES Scholarship Program ($627,322), NSF MRI Grant for TEM acquisition Research Interests: Raman spectroscopy’s role in understanding material properties and molecular dynamics. Key projects include glassy material composition effects and single-molecule SERS dynamics. Collaborative work emphasizes undergraduate involvement, with publications in Journal of Physical Chemistry , Inorganic Chemistry , and ACS Nano . Awards: Class of ’49 Shirk Award (2018), Phi Beta Kappa (2008), Phi Kappa Phi (2008). Lab & Teaching: The Sonntag Lab engages undergraduates in synthesizing borate/silicate glasses and probing molecular dynamics. Courses taught include Quantum Mechanics, Physical Chemistry, and Mathematics for Chemistry/Physics. He has advised numerous students, many of whom present at national ACS meetings.
John Richard Pasley is a Reader in the School of Physics, Engineering and Technology at the University of York, with a focus on Inertial Confinement Fusion , Fast Ignition , and Shock Wave Analysis . He is part of the Plasma Physics and Fusion Group and contributes to experimental and theoretical advancements in laser-plasma interactions. Research Interests: Inertial Confinement Fusion Fast Ignition Radiation Hydrodynamics Hohlraum Modeling Shock Wave and Implosion Dynamics Recent publications highlight his work in laser-driven ion acceleration , electron beam generation via tailored plasmas, and shock wave characterization in materials like cyclohexane and TMPTA foams. His studies employ time-resolved diagnostics and femtosecond laser techniques to explore high-energy density physics. Grants and Projects include leadership in HiPER (STFC, 2008-2011) , Experimental Characterisation of Shock Waves (EPSRC, 2011-2013) , and collaborative research on extreme ultraviolet lasers (EPSRC, 2012-2015). He maintains international collaborations with institutions in India and Japan. Based at the York Plasma Institute and RAL , Pasley's work bridges laser physics , plasma hydrodynamics , and inertial fusion energy development.
Rosa Maria de la Cruz Fernandez is an Associate Professor in the Physics Department at the School of Engineering, University Carlos III of Madrid. Her research focuses on semiconductor nanostructures and optical properties within the Nanoestructuras Semiconductoras research group at the Gregorio Millán Barbany University Institute. Her primary research interests span Nanotechnology , Semiconductor Physics , and Plasmonics , with specific expertise in optical properties of nanowires, core-shell nanocrystals, and plasmonic metamaterials. Her work bridges fundamental condensed matter physics with photovoltaic applications, emphasizing geometric and material parameter optimization for enhanced light-matter interactions. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals consistent focus on III-V semiconductor nanowires (GaAs), II-VI core-shell nanocrystals , and Ag-LiNbO 3 plasmonic composites . Key trends include geometric parameter effects on optical properties, loss compensation in metamaterials, and temperature-dependent nanoscale phenomena. Her computational approach combines dielectric tensor modeling with experimental validation. She has supervised thesis research including Crecimiento coherente de heteroestructuras semiconductoras de baja dimensionalidad (2008). Her projects include EU-funded initiatives like TechnoFusión and ANECA-supported solar cell research. Her laboratory work centers on the Nanoestructuras Semiconductoras group, where she investigates vertically aligned nanowire arrays for photovoltaics and designs plasmonic-dielectric composites with negative permittivity characteristics.
Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Wolfgang Kiefer is a renowned physicist and chemist leading the Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg. His roles include serving as Dean, ProDean, and member of key university committees (Haushaltkomission, Rechnerkommission). His expertise focuses on developing advanced physical and chemical instrumentation, particularly in spectroscopy and laser technology. Research interests center on Raman spectroscopy applications, including laser-trapped microparticles, nonlinear phenomena, and surface-enhanced techniques. He pioneered methodologies for stray light suppression and temporal contrast improvement in spectroscopic measurements. His work intersects with materials science, nanotechnology, and biomedical analysis, leveraging computational tools like DFT simulations. Notable contributions include foundational studies on Raman scattering mechanisms, instrumentation innovations, and collaborative projects with international scientists. Over 40+ publications span 2006-2025, emphasizing interdisciplinary advancements in spectroscopy and laser systems. While no explicit awards are listed, his honorary doctorate (Dr. h.c.) reflects academic recognition. No advising or grant details are provided in texts. His institute serves as a hub for cutting-edge research in physical chemistry, hosting advanced labs for femtosecond spectroscopy and nanomaterial analysis. Ongoing work explores quantum effects in condensed matter and biomedical applications of Raman techniques.
Steven Gravelle, PhD, is a Professor in the Chemistry Department at Saint Vincent College, affiliated with The Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing. He has served since 1991 and directs the Teaching Enhancement and Mentoring Program, emphasizing inquiry-based learning for student problem-solving collaboration. Education: PhD, Northwestern University MS, Northwestern University BA, St. John's University Research Interests: Dr. Gravelle specializes in time-resolved spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and nanoparticle synthesis/spectroscopy. His work bridges analytical methods development with chemistry education reform through process-oriented guided-inquiry learning (POGIL). Scientific Awards: Boniface Wimmer Faculty Award (2019) Notable Contributions: Dr. Gravelle has authored key publications on STEM pedagogy, including book chapters analyzing signature teaching methods in chemistry education and innovations in laboratory design. His 2019-2013 publications highlight institutional infrastructure development and evidence-based teaching frameworks.
Goran Karapetrov is a Professor in the Department of Physics at Drexel University, within the College of Arts and Sciences. He holds a PhD in Physics from Oregon State University and a BS/MS from Moscow State University. His research is centered on experimental condensed matter physics, with strong emphasis on quantum technologies, scanning probe techniques, and nanoscale phenomena. His research interests include: Experimental Condensed Matter Physics Quantum Technologies and Quantum Sensing Scanning Probe Microscopy and Spectroscopy Mesoscopic Superconductivity and Magnetism Nanoscale Catalysis Ultrafast Dynamics in Quantum Materials Charge Density Waves and Phase Transitions His recent publications (2020–2024) reveal a strong focus on quantum materials such as 2H-NbSe2, TiSe2, and transition metal dichalcogenides, exploring phenomena like charge density waves, superconductivity, ultrafast dynamics, and photon-induced defects. His work often involves collaboration with national labs and interdisciplinary teams, utilizing techniques like ultrafast optical spectroscopy, Raman microscopy, and nanofabrication. He leads a research group at Drexel and is affiliated with the Condensed Matter Physics Group. His work has been published in high-impact journals including Nature , Physical Review series, and iScience . While no scientific awards are listed in the provided text, his sustained publication record and leadership in experimental physics suggest significant contributions to the field. He advises graduate and undergraduate researchers, though specific student names are not mentioned. His lab investigates fundamental properties of low-dimensional materials with potential applications in quantum computing, sensing, and high-density data storage.
Dr. Daniel Keefer is a Group Leader in the Department of Molecular Spectroscopy at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research in Mainz. He holds a PhD in theoretical chemistry from LMU Munich (2019), where he studied quantum molecular dynamics under Prof. Regina de Vivie-Riedle. After postdoctoral research at UC Irvine with Prof. Shaul Mukamel, supported by a Feodor Lynen Fellowship, he established his independent group focusing on ultrafast X-ray spectroscopy and quantum control. His ERC Starting Grant (2023) supports research into probing molecular dynamics with attosecond X-ray techniques. Education: BSc (2012) and MSc (2014) in Chemistry/Biochemistry from LMU Munich, PhD (2019) in Theoretical Chemistry from LMU Munich. Research interests include ultrafast chemical transformations, quantum optimal control, and simulating X-ray spectroscopy for molecular dynamics. Techniques used: quantum molecular dynamics, electronic structure theory, and ultrafast X-ray methods like XFELs. Key scientific awards include the ERC Starting Grant (2023) and Alexander von Humboldt's Feodor Lynen Fellowship (postdoc phase). His lab develops computational tools to model nuclear/electronic dynamics and interfaces with experimental XFEL facilities. Current projects explore 'doorways of photochemistry' (conical intersections) using X-ray spectroscopy. Publications highlight advanced simulation protocols for ultrafast X-ray probes, with topics ranging from molecular photochemistry to attosecond monitoring. His group collaborates with institutions worldwide, focusing on cutting-edge spectroscopic techniques for time-resolved molecular imaging.
Dr. Robert Grisenti is a Professor at the Institute for Nuclear Physics (Institut für Kernphysik) at Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt. His research focuses on cryogenic liquid microjet technology and its applications in atomic, plasma, and condensed matter physics, with significant contributions to storage ring experiments and laser-plasma interactions. His primary research interests include: Cryogenic liquid microjet generation for scientific applications Atomic physics experiments at storage rings, particularly at the FAIR facility and GSI Relativistic laser-plasma generation using cryogenic droplet targets Investigation of structural transformations in supercooled liquids Superfluidity in highly supercooled molecular hydrogen and helium Dr. Grisenti's work demonstrates innovative approaches to producing stable cryogenic liquid jets and droplet beams, enabling studies of quantum phenomena and phase transitions at unprecedented time scales. His group developed specialized glass capillary nozzles that produce highly stable liquid jets with pointing stability better than 1 μm, overcoming challenges of jet freezing at cryogenic temperatures. His publication record shows consistent focus on cryogenic microjet technology since the early 2000s, with significant papers in Physical Review Letters and Europhysics Letters. His research bridges experimental nuclear physics, quantum mechanics, and fluid dynamics, with applications ranging from soft X-ray generation to femtosecond crystallography and potential medical applications in ion-based cancer therapy. Dr. Grisenti maintains active collaborations with major research facilities including GSI (Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research), FAIR, XFEL, and the Helmholtz Institute Jena. His laboratory features specialized vacuum chambers for cryogenic microjet production and characterization, including advanced imaging systems for beam analysis.
Daniel Markl is a Lecturer and Chancellor's Fellow at the University of Strathclyde's Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS), serving as Associate Director of the Centre for Continuous Manufacturing and Advanced Crystallisation (CMAC). His research integrates advanced measurement techniques with digital process design to revolutionize pharmaceutical manufacturing. His academic journey includes: BSc in Telematics (2010), Graz University of Technology MSc in Telematics with neural networks focus (2012), Graz University of Technology (including Erasmus Mundus study at Lund University) PhD in Chemical Engineering (2015), Graz University of Technology Markl's research centers on continuous manufacturing of solid oral dosage forms, innovative process analyzers (particularly terahertz imaging/spectroscopy), and digitally designed drug products. His lab employs optical coherence tomography, X-ray computed tomography, and machine learning to characterize material properties and model tablet disintegration/swelling processes. Key focus areas include real-time release testing, material attribute-process parameter linkages, and rapid formulation design for targeted drug release. Recent publications demonstrate advancements in spatially-resolved tablet dissolution analysis and real-time polymorphic monitoring during tabletting, reflecting strong trends toward in-line process analytical technologies and fundamental understanding of solid dosage form physics. His scientific recognition includes: AAPS Pharmaceutical Research Meritorious Manuscript Award (2019) Best Poster Award (2016) Markl actively supervises students (5 supervised works documented) and leads major research initiatives including the CERSI for Digital Transformation (Principal Investigator) and EPSRC MediForge Hub (Co-investigator), securing substantial funding for cyberphysical manufacturing platforms. His work directly supports UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health innovation. He directs TheMarklLab and contributes to CMAC's industry-academic collaborations, focusing on mechanistic modeling of disintegration processes and developing cutting-edge process monitoring solutions for next-generation pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Garry Rumbles is a Research Fellow and Principal Scientist and Group Manager for Chemical and Nanoscale Science at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), where he has been conducting research since 2000. He also holds a Visiting Professorial Chair position at Imperial College London's Department of Chemistry and is a member of both the American Chemical Society and the Royal Society of Chemistry. Dr. Rumbles' educational background includes a PhD in Photophysics of Synthetic Polymers from the University of London and a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry with Electronics from the University of Southampton. His postdoctoral research was conducted at the University of California, Irvine and the University of Arizona. Dr. Rumbles' research focuses on the photochemistry and photophysics of conjugated molecular systems, with particular emphasis on solar energy conversion processes. His work examines excited-state kinetics in synthetic polymers, cis-trans isomerization of natural chromophores in biomolecules, spectroscopy of transient gas-phase molecules, and photophysics at solid-solution interfaces. He specializes in laser-based experimental techniques including time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy, time-resolved resonance Raman spectroscopy, and time-resolved microwave conductivity. His research has practical implications for the development of more efficient solar energy conversion technologies. His recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate continued productivity and relevance in the field, with research spanning photoredox catalysis, charge separation mechanisms in organic semiconductors, and hydrogen evolution in organic nanoparticle systems. These works reflect his ongoing commitment to understanding fundamental photochemical processes with applications in solar energy conversion. Dr. Rumbles has received recognition through his Research Fellow position at NREL and his extensive publication record spanning over two decades with more than 150 research outputs. His research program utilizes advanced spectroscopic techniques to study photoinduced processes in organic and hybrid materials, with applications in solar energy conversion. The group has made significant contributions to understanding charge carrier dynamics in organic photovoltaic materials and developing new approaches for solar energy utilization.
Professor Lia Krusin is a distinguished faculty member in the Physics Department at the City College of New York (CCNY), part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system. She leads the KrusinLab, a prominent research group focused on cutting-edge investigations in topological quantum materials. She serves as co-director of IRG1 (Heterostructures of van der Waals Materials) within the NSF MRSEC Center for Precision Assembly of Superstratic and Superatomic Solids (PAS 3 ), a collaborative center led by CCNY and Columbia University with additional partners including Harvard University and Barnard College. Her research primarily centers on topological insulators, where she has made groundbreaking discoveries including the singular robust room-temperature spin response from topological Dirac fermions and emergent surface superconductivity in topological materials. Dr. Krusin has pioneered innovative approaches using high-energy (2.5 MeV) electron beams to achieve stable topological insulators by compensating charged bulk defects and bringing the Fermi level back into the bulk gap. This work has established a route to intrinsic quantum transport of topological states unconstrained by bulk size limitations. Her research group employs advanced techniques including Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE), nanofabrication, and characterization using facilities like the Quantum Design Physical Property Measurement System (PPMS) with 14 Tesla magnet capabilities. The lab explores multiple research thrusts: expanding available topological materials, measuring and controlling properties of atomically thin van der Waals materials, and creating new interfaces exhibiting emergent electronic phenomena. Professor Krusin's publications span high-impact journals including Nature Materials, Nature Communications, and Physical Review Letters, with research focusing on quantum transport, spin response, superconductivity, and optical characterization of topological systems. Her recent work has particularly emphasized achieving stable charge neutrality points in topological materials and investigating emergent surface superconductivity. Fellow of the American Physical Society Recipient of ten IBM Invention Achievement Awards Dr. Krusin maintains active collaborations with research groups at Columbia University, Harvard University, École Polytechnique (France), Virginia Tech, and the IBM T.J. Watson Research Center. Her lab, located in the Center for Discovery & Innovation (CDI) building at 85 St. Nicholas Terrace, is associated with the CUNY ASRC NanoFabrication Facility. She actively mentors graduate and undergraduate students, welcoming new members to join her research group to explore the frontiers of quantum materials science.
