Sushmita Roy is a Professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, affiliated with the Department of Computer Sciences and the College of Letters and Science. Her research focuses on developing computational methods in statistical machine learning to understand gene regulatory networks in living cells, particularly under environmental, developmental, disease, and evolutionary contexts. She explores bulk and single-cell genomic data integration to study processes like cell fate specification, host-microbe interactions, and diseases such as cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders. Her work emphasizes three key areas: inference of genome-scale transcriptional networks, evolutionary analysis of regulatory networks, and 3D genome organization dynamics. Roy’s lab collaborates across disciplines, leveraging genomic data from plant and mammalian systems. She has contributed to methodologies for analyzing chromatin accessibility, single-cell profiling, and network-based models of pathogen systems. Her affiliations include Wisconsin Institutes for Discovery, and she is a leader in computational biology and systems genomics research.
Professor Guy Williams is a leading academic at the University of Cambridge with a focus on imaging science and clinical neurosciences, affiliated with Downing College and the Wolfson Brain Imaging Centre . Holding a PhD in Physics from his initial Natural Sciences degree, he specializes in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and MRI techniques for brain imaging. Education: BA, PhD in Physics His research centers on non-invasive imaging of brain structure and function, particularly in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and dementia. His work involves developing novel MRI pulse sequences and advanced data analysis algorithms, including AI-based diagnostic tools. He leads studies on white matter integrity post-trauma, longitudinal dementia assessment, and applications of MRI in disorders of consciousness and addiction. Recent publications highlight collaborations in traumatic brain injury outcomes, AI-guided dementia prediction, and neuroimaging of post-COVID cognitive deficits. His team's work on ultra-high field laminar fMRI and distortion correction methods has advanced clinical neuroscience applications. Key techniques include diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), 7 Tesla MRI, and positron emission tomography (PET/MR). His research spans from basic NMR physics to clinical translation, with a strong emphasis on multi-site studies and real-world diagnostic implementation.
Prof. Dr. Oliver Krüger is a behavioral ecologist and evolutionary biologist at Bielefeld University 's Faculty of Biology , where he leads the Department of Animal Behaviour since 2013. His research spans avian and marine mammal systems, focusing on life history strategies, parasite-host interactions, and environmental adaptation. Education: Biology studies at Bielefeld University (1994-1996) MSc in Oxford (1996-1997) PhD at Bielefeld University with Fritz Trillmich and Jan Lindström (1998-2000) Research Themes: Behavioral ecology, evolutionary biology, and population dynamics across tropical and temperate ecosystems. Key projects include NC³ (Niche Choice/Construction) and studies on Galápagos sea lions, common buzzards, and pinniped species. Scientific Leadership: Spokesperson, SFB TRR 212 "NC³" (2018-2025) Advisory Board member: German Ornithologists Union, IUCN SSC pinniped group, German Primate Centre Peer review roles: Humboldt Foundation, DFG, HFSP, NSF Awards: Leopoldina Prize (2001) Niko Tinbergen Award (2008) DFG Heisenberg Professorship (2010-2015)
Ivan G. Horak is a renowned researcher at the University of Pretoria , with significant affiliations at institutions like Rhodes University , ClinVet International , and Bayer Pty Ltd . His career spans over four decades, focusing on veterinary parasitology , ectoparasites , and host-parasite interactions in wildlife and livestock. Research Interests : Horak's work explores the dynamics of parasite ecology , pathogen transmission , and parasite-host relationships , particularly in South African ecosystems . He has published extensively in journals like Experimental and Applied Acarology and Parasites and Vectors , analyzing tick species, helminths, and their ecological implications. Collaborations & Sponsorships : His research has been supported by prestigious bodies such as the National Research Foundation , National Institutes of Health , and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases . He has held visiting positions at Georgia Southern University and Wake Forest University . Labs & Teams : Horak has worked with key institutions like the Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute , University of the Free State , and Stellenbosch University , contributing to multi-country studies in Namibia , Zambia , Mozambique , and Zimbabwe .
Philippe Christe is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolution at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), Faculty of Biology and Medicine. His research centers on host-parasite interactions, with a focus on bats, birds, and their ectoparasites, integrating behavioral, physiological, and genetic approaches. He leads the Christe Group, which investigates evolutionary and ecological dynamics in host-parasite systems, particularly avian malaria and bat-mite relationships. He is actively involved in conservation initiatives, including the Jorat Peri-Urban Nature Park, and collaborates with KORA on human-wildlife interactions. Bachelor's degree in biology, UNIL (1989) PhD in Zoology and Animal Ecology, UNIL (1994) Philippe Christe’s research interests lie at the intersection of parasitology, evolutionary ecology, and conservation biology. He investigates how host defenses evolve in response to parasitic pressures, examining trade-offs between immunity and life history traits such as reproduction and survival. His work often integrates field studies with experimental and molecular techniques. Key model systems include Parus major (great tit) and Culex pipiens in avian malaria, and bat species with their ectoparasitic mites. He also explores broader ecological interactions, including predator-prey dynamics and wildlife conservation in human-modified landscapes. His recent publications reflect a strong emphasis on disease ecology, wildlife conservation, and molecular methods. Articles span topics such as avian malaria transmission, lynx population dynamics, snow leopard behavior, and habitat fragmentation effects on insects. These works employ advanced techniques like DNA metabarcoding, spatial modeling, and long-term monitoring, demonstrating a trend toward interdisciplinary, data-driven ecological research with direct conservation applications. Dubois Foundation Prize for an educational CD-Rom on bats (2004) Communication Award from the Faculty of Biology and Medicine of UNIL (2017) Philippe Christe has supervised numerous PhD and Master’s students, contributing significantly to training the next generation of ecologists and evolutionary biologists. His group collaborates widely with institutions such as the Museum of Zoology in Lausanne and KORA, and participates in large-scale conservation projects involving snow leopards, lynx, and bats. He has been involved in research grants related to host-parasite coevolution, wildlife monitoring, and conservation strategies. His leadership in establishing the Jorat Peri-Urban Nature Park and involvement in the UNIL Interdisciplinary Center for Mountain Research highlight his commitment to applied science and environmental stewardship. He leads the Christe Group, which conducts research on host-parasite coevolution, with a focus on bats and their ectoparasites, and birds affected by avian malaria. The group combines fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and molecular analyses, and includes post-docs, PhD students, and technical staff. Collaborations extend to researchers in Bern, Paris, and Spain, fostering an international and interdisciplinary research environment.
Adam Caparco is the DiPietro Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering at Northeastern University, with a 25% joint appointment in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology. He leads the Caparco Research Group, focusing on agricultural and environmental biotechnology, enzyme immobilization, and protein assemblies. His work integrates plant virology, nanotechnology, and molecular engineering to address sustainability challenges in agriculture and environmental remediation. He is a member of the Institute for Plant-Human Interface and holds affiliations with Northeastern’s College of Engineering and School of Arts and Sciences. Education: B.S. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from UCLA (2015), Ph.D. from Georgia Tech (2020) under Julie Champion and Andreas Bommarius, followed by a USDA NIFA Postdoctoral Fellowship at UC San Diego under Nicole Steinmetz. His research spans plant immunoengineering, biomanufacturing in plants, and protein-based nanomaterials for bioremediation. Research Interests Plant excretion pathways for pathogen defense and environmental remediation Design of immobilized enzymes for green chemical synthesis Plant virus nanoparticles for nucleic acid delivery and immunity modulation Multifunctional protein engineering for sustainable agriculture Recent articles highlight advancements in plant virus-based delivery systems, enzyme immobilization strategies, and nano-enabled precision agriculture. Awards include the USDA NIFA Postdoctoral Fellowship. Caparco advises graduate and undergraduate researchers, including Julia Hilgemberg Merlin (PhD ChE), Olha Bereziuk (PhD CCB), and Paul Carter (PhD ChE). He collaborates widely and seeks to expand interdisciplinary research in plant biotechnology. Labs/Teams: Caparco Research Group (EXP 420 lab, EXP 530B office) and the Institute for Plant-Human Interface.
Caitlin Mullarkey is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences at McMaster University's Faculty of Health Sciences. She teaches across multiple undergraduate programs including Biochemistry, Biomedicine, and Health Sciences, with courses ranging from Cellular and Molecular Biology to Immunological Principles in Practice and Principles of Virology. Dr. Mullarkey's research focuses on immunology and virology with particular emphasis on influenza virus immunity, antibody-mediated responses, and vaccine development. Her work explores intricate mechanisms of antibody function including Fc-mediated effector functions, neutrophil responses to viral infection, and the role of broadly neutralizing antibodies. She also investigates innovative approaches to biomedical education through virtual laboratory simulations and online course development. Analysis of her publication record reveals a strong focus on influenza immunology, with particular expertise in antibody structure-function relationships, hemagglutinin stalk-specific antibodies, and Fc-mediated immune responses. Her work bridges basic immunological mechanisms with practical vaccine development approaches, demonstrating consistent contributions to understanding host-pathogen interactions and immune protection mechanisms. Scientific Awards: Equality of Opportunity Award from the Government of Ontario (2024) for developing and leading McMaster's Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences Summer Scholars Program Dr. Mullarkey actively supervises undergraduate research through Senior Research Thesis and Senior Thesis courses, providing mentorship to students across multiple academic years. Her teaching portfolio demonstrates significant commitment to both foundational and advanced topics in biochemistry and immunology. Beyond formal teaching, she leads the Summer Scholars Program which provides full research scholarships to students who identify as Black, Indigenous, and/or 2SLGBTQIA+, addressing barriers to participation in STEM research through comprehensive support for training, mentorship, and living expenses. As Chair of the Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences Summer Scholars Program, Dr. Mullarkey has graduated 17 diverse scholars in just two years, with many continuing research at McMaster and receiving competitive awards. The program, supported by McMaster's Global Nexus and Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, exemplifies her commitment to creating inclusive research opportunities in biomedical sciences.
Vera D'Urso is an Associate Professor of Zoology at the Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, where she has been employed since 1994. Her academic career began with a CNR scholarship from 1977-1980, followed by work as a Confirmed Researcher at the Faculty of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, University of Catania from 1980-1994. She has received DAAD scholarships for research at the University of Marburg in Germany in 1984 and 1987. Dr. D'Urso earned her Degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Catania with a grade of 110 cum laude. She furthered her expertise with postgraduate courses in "Quantitative Methods in Ecology" at the International Center of Theoric Physics in Miramare, Trieste in 1980. Dr. D'Urso is a leading expert in several entomological fields, with primary research interests in: Insecta Homoptera Auchenorrhyncha (leafhoppers and related insects) Insecta Diptera Phlebotominae (sand flies) Systematics and biodiversity of Mediterranean insects Insect vectors of phytoplasmas affecting economically important plants Alien species and their ecological impact Tardigrades and their taxonomy Her extensive publication record spanning over 95 scientific papers demonstrates her expertise in insect systematics, morphology, and ecology. Recent research has focused on Mediterranean biodiversity, particularly examining alien species like Balclutha brevis and their impact on local ecosystems. She has also made significant contributions to understanding phytoplasma transmission in grapevines, sandfly vectors of leishmaniasis in Sicily, and tardigrade taxonomy in extreme environments including Antarctica. Dr. D'Urso has served on numerous scientific committees including the editorial board of Biodiversity Journal, and has been a referee for multiple prestigious journals. She has participated in research projects including "Morphology, Systematics, Biology and Biogeography of Rhynchota Insects" (1994-99) and studies on sandflies in areas with high canine leishmaniasis endemicity (2004-06). Her academic service includes membership on doctoral committees at the University of Catania, participation in national evaluation committees for associate professor positions in Zoology, and serving on the Department Board of the Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences (2018-2020). She has also conducted numerous entomological collection missions in Italy and abroad including Greece, Bulgaria, Macedonia, former Yugoslavia, Germany, Tunisia, Libya, and Malta.
Cynthia C. Lord is an Associate Professor specializing in population modeling at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), specifically at the Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory (FMEL) in Vero Beach, Florida. Her academic appointment is within the Entomology and Nematology Department, where she contributes to research on vector-borne diseases and pathogen transmission dynamics. Dr. Lord's research focuses on medical entomology with particular expertise in vector-borne diseases transmitted by ticks and mosquitoes. Her work encompasses population modeling of disease vectors, analysis of transmission dynamics for pathogens including Rickettsia, Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, and Zika virus, and investigation of vector-pathogen-host relationships. Her research has significant implications for public health interventions and vector control strategies. Her recent publications demonstrate expertise in analyzing the epidemiology and transmission patterns of vector-borne diseases. Her work on Rickettsia pathogens provides comprehensive information on disease-causing species in the United States, while her research on Zika virus examines the emergence and spread of this mosquito-borne pathogen in the Americas. Her publications serve as valuable resources for vector control agencies, public health officials, and medical professionals. Dr. Lord's research has contributed to understanding the distribution and transmission of vector-borne diseases in Florida and throughout the United States, with particular attention to the ecological and epidemiological factors that influence disease emergence and spread.
Ananias A. Escalante is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Temple University's College of Science and Technology, and a core faculty member of the Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (iGEM). He holds a PhD in Biology from the University of California, Irvine (1995), and has held roles at the CDC (1995–2005) and Arizona State University (2005–2015). His research integrates population genetics with epidemiology, focusing on malaria parasites' evolution, drug resistance mechanisms, and biodiversity. Key areas include Plasmodium falciparum resistance mutations, primate malaria origins, and molecular tools for surveillance. Education: PhD in Biology, University of California, Irvine (1995) MSc in Ecology, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Venezuela Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Venezuela Research interests span evolutionary genomics, malaria parasite diversity, and the application of genomic tools to epidemiology. He investigates how genetic diversity in parasites influences drug resistance and transmission dynamics, with a focus on nonhuman primate malaria as a model for human malaria origins. His work includes phylogenetic studies of Plasmodium species and the development of mitochondrial genome protocols for pathogen analysis. Notable contributions include studies on Plasmodium vivax population genetics in the Americas, the impact of drug resistance mutations (e.g., pfhrp2/pfhrp3 deletions), and the molecular characterization of novel malaria parasites in reptiles and birds. He collaborates on initiatives like the Amazonian International Center of Excellence for Malaria Research. Advising and grants: While specific student names aren’t listed, his research team likely includes graduate students focused on evolutionary parasitology. Grants support projects on malaria genomics and vector ecology. He leads Temple’s iGEM lab, advancing interdisciplinary research in genomics and evolutionary medicine. Labs/Teams: Core faculty at Temple’s Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (iGEM), collaborating on projects integrating genomics, epidemiology, and evolutionary biology.
Hakan Fidan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Plant Protection at Akdeniz University's Faculty of Agriculture in Antalya, Turkey. With over two decades of experience in plant virology and molecular plant pathology, Dr. Fidan leads research focused on viral diseases affecting vegetable crops, particularly tomatoes, peppers, cucurbits, and cereals. He serves as Director of the Seed and Agricultural Biotechnology Research and Application Center at Akdeniz University and has previously directed the Serik Gulsun-Suleyman Sural Vocational School. Dr. Fidan's academic journey includes: Doctorate (2004-2010): Cukurova University, Faculty of Agriculture, Plant Protection Department Postgraduate (2000-2004): Cukurova University, Faculty of Agriculture, Phytopathology/Virology Undergraduate (1992-1996): Cukurova University, Faculty of Agriculture, Plant Protection Department Dr. Fidan's research spans several interconnected areas in plant pathology and virology. His primary focus is on plant viruses affecting economically important crops in the Mediterranean region, with particular emphasis on molecular characterization of viral pathogens, development of resistance mechanisms, and implementation of sustainable disease management strategies. His work integrates molecular biology techniques with traditional plant pathology approaches to address real-world agricultural challenges. His specific research interests include: Plant Virology and Molecular Plant Pathology Development of molecular markers for disease resistance Complete genome molecular biology of plant viruses Plant resistance mechanisms against viral pathogens CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing for developing virus-resistant crops Host-pathogen interactions in vegetable crops Analysis of Dr. Fidan's recent publications reveals a strong focus on emerging viral threats to Turkish agriculture, particularly tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV), tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), and zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV). His research demonstrates a strategic progression from basic viral characterization to developing practical solutions through molecular diagnostics, resistance breeding, and genome editing approaches. A notable trend is the increasing application of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in his recent work, reflecting a shift toward genetic solutions for viral disease management. Dr. Fidan has supervised 10 graduate theses across master's and doctoral levels, focusing on viral diseases of economically important crops. His students' research has addressed critical issues including ToBRFV management, TSWV resistance breaking, ZYMV resistance in cucurbits, and molecular characterization of emerging viral pathogens. His research program is supported by multiple projects (14 listed in the metrics), indicating successful grant acquisition for molecular virology research and crop protection initiatives. As Director of the Seed and Agricultural Biotechnology Research and Application Center at Akdeniz University, Dr. Fidan leads a multidisciplinary team focused on agricultural biotechnology and seed science. His research group specializes in plant virology, with expertise spanning molecular diagnostics, host-pathogen interactions, and genetic approaches to disease management. The team maintains strong connections with national and international research institutions, as evidenced by collaborative publications, and works closely with agricultural extension services to translate research findings into practical solutions for Turkish farmers.
Camilo Mora is a Professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where he maintains an active research laboratory and teaches courses on environmental issues, biogeography, and data analysis. His academic journey began with a BSc in Marine Biology from Universidad del Valle in Colombia (1999), followed by a PhD in Biology from the University of Windsor, Canada (2005). He completed postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Auckland (2005), Scripps Institution of Oceanography (2006-2008), and Dalhousie University (2008-2010). BSc, Marine Biology, Universidad del Valle, Colombia (1999) PhD, Biology, University of Windsor, Canada (2005) Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Auckland (2005) Postdoctoral Fellow, Scripps Institution of Oceanography (2006-2008) Postdoctoral Fellow, Dalhousie University (2008-2010) Mora's research spans interconnected lines focused on understanding biodiversity patterns and their modification by human activities, with particular emphasis on climate change impacts. His lab specializes in big data analytics applied to diverse environmental challenges including heatwaves, disease transmission, marine ecosystems, and even unconventional topics like Bitcoin's environmental footprint. The Mora Lab operates on a 'divide and conquer' approach to tackle large research questions by breaking data gathering into individual parts that can be concatenated into central databases. Mora has received the CSS Excellence in Research award (2014) for his significant contributions to environmental science. His influential publications include groundbreaking work on the global risk of deadly heat (2017), the projected timing of climate departure from historical variability (2013), and the finding that over half of known human pathogenic diseases can be aggravated by climate change (2022). CSS Excellence in Research (2014) Highly cited publications in Nature and Nature Climate Change Research featured in major international media outlets Development of innovative research methodologies for large-scale analyses Mora leads an active research group that engages students in the full scientific process from idea generation to publication. His approach to mentoring involves creating yearly classes where graduate students, professors, and international advisors collaborate to tackle significant research questions, with papers typically completed within a single semester. His Carbon Neutrality Challenge project, spearheaded by his daughter Asryelle Mora, provides a practical mechanism for individuals to offset carbon emissions through tree planting. The Mora Lab maintains a distinctive approach to environmental research, working on seemingly diverse topics from reef fishes to Bitcoin, united by their reliance on big data analytics. This interdisciplinary methodology has produced impactful research across multiple domains of environmental science and climate change impacts, establishing Mora as a significant contributor to our understanding of humanity's environmental challenges.
Derek D. Houston is an Assistant Professor of Biology at Western Colorado University, affiliated with the Natural & Environmental Sciences Department and the Clark Family School of Environment & Sustainability. He holds a PhD in Biology from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (2009), an MS in Zoology from Brigham Young University (2002), and a BS in Zoology from Brigham Young University (1999). His research focuses on phylogeography , molecular ecology , and conservation of desert fishes , with fieldwork spanning western North America, British Columbia, and Baja California. Key interests include: Evolutionary adaptations of aquatic organisms using DNA sequencing Population genetics of western North American fishes Ecological impacts of parasites on mutualistic systems Climate change effects on alpine and desert species Houston teaches courses including Biogeography, Cell Biology, Conservation Genetics, Ecology, and Fisheries Biology. His publications emphasize evolutionary patterns in aquatic insects and fishes , nematode-fig wasp interactions , and conservation genetics , frequently leveraging genomic tools to explore ecological relationships. He conducts fieldwork in diverse western ecosystems and values interdisciplinary collaboration to address conservation challenges.
Dr. Mostafa Elfawal is an Assistant Professor at UMass Chan Medical School in the Program in Molecular Medicine, affiliated with the T.H. Chan School of Medicine. His research focuses on developing novel therapeutics against parasitic infections, particularly targeting soil-transmitted helminths and malaria. He completed his PhD in Medical Entomology/Microbiology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, following a BA and MS in Animal Science from Ain Shams University in Egypt. His work emphasizes high-throughput drug screening and repurposing existing compounds for anthelmintic use, with recent breakthroughs in PIM kinase inhibitors and broad-spectrum antiparasitic agents. He has extensively studied Artemisia annua's antimalarial properties and its role in overcoming drug resistance. Collaborations with institutions like the NIH and international networks highlight his global impact in parasitology and tropical medicine. Key contributions include identifying metabolic enzyme inhibitors as anthelmintics, elucidating hookworm's cognitive and microbiome effects, and advancing yeast particle encapsulation for controlled drug release. His research bridges basic science with clinical application, addressing critical gaps in treating neglected tropical diseases.
Dr Fernanda Cardoso is a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland. She holds dual Brazilian-Australian citizenship and specializes in venom peptide-based biodiscovery and therapeutics development for neurological disorders such as chronic pain, motor neuron disease (MND), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Her interdisciplinary expertise spans neuropharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and drug discovery. Education: Bachelor's, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) MSc in Molecular Pharmacology, UFMG PhD in Biochemistry and Immunology, UFMG Research Interests: Mechanisms and therapies for chronic pain/visceral pain/IBS Neurodegeneration pathophysiology and drug development Venom pharmacology of spiders, cone snails, and snakes Structure-function relationships of venom peptides Voltage-gated ion channel modulation Grants & Projects: Current: Peptide Inhibitors Targeting Sodium Channels (2023-2026) Past: Multifunctional analgesic inhibitors (2020-2023), IBS pain therapies (2018-2019) Supervision: Recently advised 14 students on projects including ALS therapies, venom peptide characterization, and ion channel modulation. Current openings focus on venom bioactives and neurological disorder treatments. Achievements: Pioneered venom-based ion channel modulator discovery, identified neuroprotective venom peptides, and developed a schistosomiasis vaccine candidate. Her work bridges basic research with clinical applications for global health challenges.
