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Tobias WeinertView profile

Researcher

• Structural Biology
• X-ray Crystallography
• Protein Dynamics
• +3 more

Dr. Tobias Weinert is a Senior Scientist and Principal Investigator (PI) at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland, affiliated with the Laboratory of Biomolecular Research . His work focuses on advancing time-resolved serial crystallography at synchrotrons and X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) to study protein structural dynamics, particularly enzymes. He integrates computational tools like dimensionality reduction and machine learning with experimental methods to resolve transient structural states under functionally relevant conditions. Senior Scientist & PI at PSI Active in serial crystallography and method development His research emphasizes designing triggering strategies for non-photoactive proteins, enabling controlled molecular process initiation. He also supports serial crystallography activities at PSI’s Laboratory of Biomolecular Research (LBR), contributing expertise in experimental design, data acquisition, and processing. Key publications highlight applications in enzyme mechanisms , photoreceptors , and time-resolved structural analysis , with a focus on bridging experimental and computational approaches. Recent articles demonstrate trends in serial synchrotron crystallography , light-activated proteins , and X-ray free-electron laser applications , often addressing conformational changes and kinetic modeling.

Valérie PanneelsView profile

Researcher

• Membrane Proteins
• Structural Biology
• Biophysics
• +4 more

Dr. Valérie Panneels is a Senior Scientist at the Laboratory of Biomolecular Research within the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland. Her research focuses on the structural dynamics of integral membrane proteins, particularly G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and light-sensitive pumps, using advanced biophysical techniques. Her primary research interests include: Molecular mechanisms of cellular signal transduction via receptors and transporters Structural characterization of membrane proteins using X-ray free electron lasers (SwissFEL), synchrotrons, and electron microscopy Development of methodologies for membrane protein expression, purification, and crystallization Time-resolved studies of photoreceptor dynamics at femtosecond-to-millisecond timescales Dr. Panneels' publications demonstrate a consistent focus on time-resolved structural biology of photoreceptive proteins, with recurring themes in rhodopsin dynamics, bacteriorhodopsin photocycles, and innovative crystallography methods. Her work frequently employs cutting-edge X-ray sources and contributes to methodological advances in membrane protein studies. She leads research projects at PSI's biomolecular laboratory, collaborating with international teams on structural biology initiatives involving synchrotron radiation and free-electron laser facilities.

Ching-Ju TsaiView profile

Researcher

• G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs)
• Signal transduction
• Structural biology
• +3 more

Dr. Ching-Ju Tsai is a Research Scientist at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland, affiliated with the Laboratory of Biomolecular Research. Her work focuses on G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their role in signal transduction, employing advanced structural biology techniques like X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). Research Highlights: Deciphering GPCR-G protein coupling selectivity, structural characterization of bistable rhodopsins, and development of novel crystallization supports. Technical Expertise: X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, biochemical techniques, serial femtosecond crystallography, and membrane protein stabilization. The trends in her recent publications emphasize structural insights into GPCR activation mechanisms, chemokine receptor signaling, and methodological advances in membrane protein crystallography. Her work bridges structural biology and pharmacology, targeting GPCRs as key drug discovery elements. PhD Supervision: Lea Jänisch (ETH Zurich, 2024–present) Oliver Miguel Tejero (ETH Zurich, 2020–2024) Filip Karol Pamula (ETH Zurich, 2017–2021)

Paavo PenttiläView profile

Visiting Professor

• Wood Material Science
• Cellulose Research
• X-ray Scattering
• +5 more

Paavo Penttilä serves as a Visiting Professor at Aalto University, specializing in Wood Material Science with a focus on structural analysis of hierarchical cellulosic materials using X-ray and neutron scattering techniques. His research bridges fundamental material science with practical applications in sustainable bioproducts. His primary research interests include Wood-Water Interactions , Cellulose Microfibril Structures , Nanocellulose Characterization , and Advanced Scattering Methodologies . He pioneers the integration of machine learning with scattering data analysis to unravel nanoscale moisture dynamics and structural changes in wood. Recent work emphasizes lignin's role in moisture-sensitive nanostructures, cellulose deaggregation mechanisms, and computational modeling of biopolymer interactions. Dr. Penttilä's publication trends reveal a decisive shift toward data-intensive approaches in materials characterization, with 12 of his 15 most recent articles (2023-2025) incorporating machine learning or advanced computational modeling. His work consistently targets fundamental questions in wood nanostructure while addressing practical challenges in sustainable material design. He received the prestigious Hayashi Jisuke Award 2022 from The Cellulose Society of Japan, recognizing his transformative contributions to scattering methodologies for cellulosic material analysis. This award underscores his international impact in advancing structural characterization techniques for renewable biomaterials.

• Ultrafast Spectroscopy
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Nonlinear Optics
• +3 more

Dr. Isabel González Vallejo is a Researcher at the Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy , affiliated with the C3: Femtosecond Spectroscopy of Solids group. Her work focuses on ultrafast phenomena in condensed matter systems, particularly exploring carrier dynamics, phonon effects, and structural changes in materials under extreme conditions. She utilizes advanced techniques like X-ray diffraction and femtosecond spectroscopy to study charge density waves, nonlinear optics, and quantum pathways in materials such as bismuth, boron nitride, and GdTe3. Her research interests include: Ultrafast carrier dynamics and symmetry reduction Phonon-induced valence-charge relocation Time-resolved structural dynamics of phase transitions Longitudinal soft mode dynamics in ionic crystallites Key contributions include studies published in Science Advances and Physical Review B , analyzing phenomena such as shear effects in CDWs and terahertz-range excitations. She has collaborated extensively with international teams on XFEL and ultrafast X-ray scattering experiments. Funding sources and grants are not explicitly detailed in the provided text.

Matthias SchnuererView profile

Researcher

• High Field Physics
• Laser-Driven Matter Acceleration
• Plasma Dynamics
• +4 more

Dr. Matthias Schnuerer is an acting Department Head of B3 (Laser Development) and Project Coordinator at the Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy in Berlin. His research focuses on high-field physics, laser-driven matter acceleration, and plasma dynamics. He has pioneered proton imaging techniques for studying relativistic plasma behavior and contributed to advancements in laser systems for coherent X-ray generation. **Education**: PhD in Physics (1984), Humboldt-University Berlin Diploma in Physics (1982), Humboldt-University Berlin Habilitation (2001), Technical University Wien **Research Interests**: His work spans laser-plasma interactions, ultrafast laser systems (OPCPA, fs pulses), and applications in X-ray spectroscopy. Key areas include energy transformation in plasmas, coherent soft X-ray generation beyond the water window, and relativistic electron dynamics. Recent projects involve developing high-average-power MIR laser systems and studying magnetization dynamics via soft X-ray techniques. **Labs/Teams**: Leads the Laser Development department at MBI, coordinating projects like the Application Laboratories and Technology Transfer initiative. Collaborates on advanced X-ray optics and plasma diagnostics for material science and energy research.

Randall HeadrickView profile

Professor

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• Thin Film Growth
• +3 more

Randall Headrick serves as a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Vermont's College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences. Based in Innovation Hall (Room E218, Burlington, VT), he holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania (1988) and maintains an active research program in experimental condensed matter physics. His educational background includes: Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, 1988 Professor Headrick's research focuses on experimental investigations of condensed matter systems, with particular emphasis on thin-film growth kinetics, etching processes, and real-time characterization of surface evolution. His work bridges fundamental surface science and applied materials engineering, utilizing advanced diffraction techniques to probe nanoscale dynamics during material synthesis and modification. Key methodologies include in-situ x-ray and electron diffraction studies under controlled growth conditions. Analysis of his recent publications (2021-2025) reveals dominant themes in perovskite solar cell optimization, ion-beam nanopatterning of semiconductor surfaces, and organic thin-film dynamics. His research consistently employs synchrotron-based x-ray scattering to resolve transient phases and nanoscale phenomena during growth processes, with increasing focus on energy materials like halide perovskites and oxide semiconductors. No scientific awards were documented in the provided source material. The available information does not specify doctoral advisees or grant funding details, though his involvement in semiconductor education initiatives suggests curriculum development activities. His publication record indicates collaborative work with national laboratories for synchrotron experiments. While not explicitly named, his research necessitates specialized laboratories for thin-film deposition (including pulsed laser deposition and sputtering systems) coupled with real-time x-ray characterization capabilities. His work on semiconductor engineering education implies connections to UVM's Certificate of Graduate Study in Semiconductor Engineering and Physics program.

Julius HuijtsView profile

Researcher

• Ultrafast Electron Diffraction
• Laser Plasmas
• Quantum Technology
• +4 more

Julius Huijts is a postdoctoral researcher at Eindhoven University of Technology in the Coherence and Quantum Technology group. His work focuses on developing ultrashort pulses of ultracold electrons for ultrafast electron diffraction on membrane proteins. Supported by prestigious fellowships (Branco Weiss and Marie Skłodowska-Curie), he has contributed to advancing laser-plasma acceleration and coherent diffractive imaging. Previously, he held postdoc positions at LOA (France) and completed his PhD at Université Paris-Saclay (2019). Education Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Applied Physics from TU Delft PhD from Université Paris-Saclay (2019), conducted at CEA (France) and ICFO (Spain) Research Interests Huijts' research spans ultrafast electron diffraction , laser-plasma acceleration , and quantum technology . His current project, CoCoPro , aims to create molecular movies of membrane proteins using ultracold electron pulses. This work bridges applied physics with biophysics, targeting breakthroughs in structural biology. Recent Research Trends His articles highlight advancements in laser wakefield acceleration (e.g., optimizing H₂ plasma performance) and carrier-envelope phase control in relativistic electron dynamics. Collaborative efforts focus on biomedical applications of high-repetition-rate electron beams. Awards & Recognition Branco Weiss Fellowship (2022) Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship (2022) First prize in Dutch Physical Society writing competition (2021) FELs of Europe Poster Prize (2024) Grants & Projects CoCoPro (2022–2025): High-coherence ultracold electron diffraction for molecular movies Labs & Affiliations Part of TU/e's Coherence and Quantum Technology group, collaborating with institutions like LOA (France) and École Polytechnique. Active in international workshops (e.g., RUEDI Ultrafast Biosciences) and conferences (CLEO 2024).

• Computational Imaging
• X-ray Imaging
• Optical Physics
• +4 more

Manuel Guizar-Sicairos is an Associate Professor of Physics at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPF Lausanne), affiliated with the School of Basic Sciences (SB) and the Institute of Physics (IPHYS). He leads the Computational X-ray Imaging group at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in a joint position with EPF Lausanne since January 2023. His work bridges advanced X-ray imaging techniques and algorithm development for synchrotron sources. Education B.Sc. in Physics Engineering (2002), Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico M.Sc. in Electronic Systems (2005), Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico M.Sc. in Optics (2008), Ph.D. in Optics (2010), Institute of Optics, University of Rochester, NY His research focuses on computational X-ray imaging , particularly phase retrieval, holography, and ptychography. He has pioneered 3D nanoscale imaging techniques like SASTT and magnetization vector tomography, enabling applications in biomedical imaging (synaptic-resolution brain imaging), energy storage (3D operando batteries), and materials science (catalysts, bone structures). Selected publications since 2015 highlight his expertise in ptychography , nanotomography , and scattering techniques , with a recurring emphasis on synchrotron-based imaging and reconstruction algorithms . His work often intersects with materials science and semiconductor analysis . Scientific Awards Innovation Award on Synchrotron Radiation (2014, 2021) ICO Prize (2019) Fellow of The Optical Society (2021) and SPIE (2022) SPIE Senior Member Multiple Optics & Photonics Education Scholarships (2004–2009) As a confidential advisor for the Respect@PSI campaign since 2022, he advocates for diversity and inclusion in research. His group at PSI develops open-source algorithms for X-ray imaging, including quasi-discrete Hankel transforms and subpixel registration tools.

David ReisView profile

Professor

• High-Energy Physics
• X-ray Laser Technology
• Condensed Matter Physics
• +5 more

David Reis is the Director of PULSE (Postdoctoral Unification of Laser Science and Engineering) and a Professor of Photon Science and Applied Physics at Stanford University, affiliated with SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. His research focuses on ultrafast x-ray science, high-intensity laser-matter interactions, and quantum materials. He leads experimental efforts at facilities like FACET-II and LCLS-II, investigating phenomena such as strong-field quantum electrodynamics (QED), ultrafast lattice dynamics, and photoexcited phase transitions. Reis' work combines advanced x-ray laser techniques with cutting-edge instrumentation to study transient material states. Key areas include Breit-Wheeler positron production, coherent acoustic phonon excitation in solids, and nonlinear optical processes in quantum materials. His contributions span detector development for high-energy physics experiments and fundamental studies of nonequilibrium dynamics in topological insulators and correlated electron systems. Education : Not explicitly stated in the text. Labs/Teams : PULSE, FACET-II Collaboration, LCLS-II Team. Grants/Advising : No specific grants or advisees listed, but leads large-scale experimental collaborations. His research bridges high-energy physics and condensed matter, with applications to next-generation accelerator science and material discovery. Recent studies explore attosecond x-ray vision, terahertz-driven coherent phonons, and the interplay between electronic and lattice dynamics in quantum materials.

Benjamin CottsView profile

Assistant Professor

• Clean Energy Materials
• Quantum Dots
• Organic Semiconductors
• +5 more

Benjamin Cotts is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Middlebury College. He teaches general, physical, and analytical chemistry courses and leads research focused on developing abundant and affordable clean energy materials to address climate change. His work combines experimental techniques with computational analysis to study emerging semiconductors like quantum dots and organic semiconductors. Education: Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (University of California, Berkeley, 2016); B.A. in Chemistry (Carleton College, 2011) Professional Experience: Postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University (2016-2021); Presidential Management Fellow at the U.S. Department of Energy (2017-2018) His research explores charge transfer states in organic semiconductors and thermalization/trapping in quantum dots using time-resolved spectroscopies . He collaborates with national facilities like the Advanced Photon Source and SLAC MeV-UED for structural analysis of light-absorbing materials. The Cotts Lab employs Python-based data analysis to interpret photophysical behavior and optimize device efficiency. Current projects examine solid-state solvation effects on OLED emitters and investigate how microscale molecular arrangements influence device stability. Students in his lab gain hands-on experience with advanced instrumentation and data processing techniques.

Arumugam MahendrasingamView profile

Associate Professor

• X-ray Diffraction
• Neutron Diffraction
• Polymer Physics
• +3 more

Arumugam Mahendrasingam is a Reader in Physics at Keele University's School of Chemical and Physical Sciences. As a member of the Fibre Diffraction Group, he specializes in X-ray and neutron diffraction techniques for studying molecular structure in natural and synthetic materials. His research develops time-resolved and microfocus X-ray methods for polymer characterization. Education includes: BSc (Hons) Physics, University of Sri Lanka PhD in X-ray fibre diffraction, Keele University Research applications include elongation flow effects on polymers, biodegradable polymer alternatives, cocoa butter polymorphism, and pharmaceutical solid-state transitions. Current investigations focus on industrial processing conditions through collaborations with Innovia, Nestle, and University of Minnesota researchers.

• Ultrafast and Nonlinear Optics
• Quantum Optics
• Conceptual Understanding in Quantum Mechanics
• +5 more

Amy L. Lytle is a Professor of Physics at Franklin & Marshall College , where she leads research in ultrafast and nonlinear optics , quantum optics , and quantum mechanics education . Her work spans from developing novel broadband laser sources to testing foundational principles of quantum theory and improving student understanding of quantum concepts. Education : B.A., Physics, The College of Wooster, Wooster, Ohio Ph.D., Physics, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado Research Interests : Professor Lytle's research is divided into three main areas: Ultrafast and Nonlinear Optics : Development of broadband laser sources in the near-infrared and soft x-ray regions, with a focus on high-order harmonic generation and second harmonic generation using counterpropagating light for phase matching. Quantum Optics : Experimental tests of Born's rule using light diffraction, exploring the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics and the interpretation of quantum measurements. Conceptual Understanding in Quantum Mechanics : Investigation of how students develop conceptual models in quantum mechanics, including the use of metaphors, ontological categorization, and hands-on instructional methods. Scientific Awards : OSA Senior Member (2020) NSF CAREER Award (2017–2023) Cottrell College Science Award (2012–2014) National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (2003–2006) 2008 New Focus/Bookham Student Award Finalist Grants and Student Mentorship : Professor Lytle has secured major federal funding, including the NSF CAREER Award, and has mentored over 20 undergraduate students in research projects, many of whom have co-authored publications and presented at national conferences. Teaching and Labs : She teaches a wide range of physics courses from introductory to advanced levels, including optics, quantum mechanics, and physics education. She is also involved in developing inclusive physics curricula and public engagement initiatives.

Paulo RiggView profile

Researcher

• Shock Physics
• Dynamic Compression
• Materials Science
• +3 more

Paulo Rigg serves as Staff Scientist and DCS Manager at the Dynamic Compression Sector (DCS) of the Advanced Photon Source (APS), operating under Washington State University's Institute for Shock Physics. His dual role bridges experimental leadership at Argonne National Laboratory's synchrotron facility with academic research responsibilities at WSU since joining in 2015. His educational foundation includes: Ph.D. in Physics (1999) from Washington State University's Institute for Shock Physics B.S. in Physics (1994) from Montana State University Dr. Rigg's research centers on real-time observation of material behavior under extreme dynamic loading, specializing in phase transitions, elastic-plastic deformation, and failure mechanisms. He pioneers advanced diagnostic methodologies including synchrotron X-ray diffraction, proton radiography, and laser velocimetry to capture transient phenomena during shock events. His work provides critical insights into fundamental material responses relevant to planetary science, defense applications, and advanced manufacturing. Analysis of his publication record reveals consistent focus on high-strain-rate phenomena, with recent work emphasizing X-ray probing of dynamic compression processes. Key research threads include quantitative measurement of shocked densities in metals, characterization of solid-solid phase transitions, and development of novel diagnostic frameworks for ejecta and lattice deformation studies. As DCS Manager, Dr. Rigg directs operations at this premier user facility where synchrotron X-rays enable real-time observation of materials under dynamic compression. His leadership integrates capabilities from Washington State University, Argonne National Laboratory, and national laboratory partners to advance experimental shock physics. Dr. Rigg maintains no listed formal advisees or significant grant portfolios in available documentation, reflecting his primary focus on facility management and collaborative experimental research rather than traditional academic mentorship.

Camila Bacellar Cases da SilveiraView profile

Researcher

• Ultrafast X-ray Spectroscopy
• Photochemistry
• Femtochemistry
• +3 more

Camila Bacellar Cases da Silveira is a Group Leader of the Alvra Group at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) and an Instrument Scientist at the SwissFEL facility. Her research focuses on ultrafast X-ray spectroscopy and imaging of chemical and biological systems , particularly heme proteins and charge carrier dynamics . Education: Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (2017) from the University of California, Berkeley Her work utilizes advanced techniques such as X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) , X-ray emission spectroscopy (XES) , and single-shot coherent diffractive imaging at X-ray free-electron laser facilities like LCLS and SwissFEL. She collaborates with external researchers to support experiments at the Alvra endstation, which specializes in ultrafast dynamics under physiological conditions.