Visualization techniques (AFM, fluorescence microscopy) Professors and Supervisors

Marc SchneiderView profile

Professor

Saarland UniversityGermany

Prof. Dr. Marc Schneider holds a professorship in Biopharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology at Saarland University's College of Pharmacy . His research focuses on colloidal drug delivery systems, particularly nanostructured and non-spherical particle engineering for overcoming biological barriers in pulmonary and transdermal applications. He leads an internationally recognized lab in Saarbrücken, collaborating with Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) and trinational institutions. Research Highlights: Development of inhalable nano/microparticle systems Surface modification of gelatin nanoparticles Characterization of mucus-penetrating particles 3D printing for microneedle fabrication Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) for nanoparticle analysis Selected Scientific Awards: European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics Best Paper Award (2018) for mucus-penetrating nanoparticles Recognized in 'Ausgezeichnete Orte im Land der Ideen' competition (2018) for 'Nano-Mais' drug delivery system Collaborative Networks: Co-editor for Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews special issue on biological barriers Key participant in trinational Master's program in Biomedicine with Strasbourg, Mainz, and Luxembourg Active in Controlled Release Society (CRS) conferences and local chapters

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Robert ThorneView profile

Professor

Cornell UniversityUnited States

Robert Thorne is a Professor in the Department of Physics at Cornell University's College of Arts and Sciences. His research spans biological physics, experimental condensed matter physics, and physics education innovations. He holds a B.Sc. from the University of Manitoba (1981) and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Urbana (1987). Stephen H. Weiss Presidential Fellow (2011-present) Founder and CTO of MiTeGen LLC (2004-present) Research Interests: Thorne's work focuses on: Single-particle cryo-EM and time-resolved molecular movies Advanced X-ray crystallography and SAXS techniques Water/ice physics in biological and materials contexts X-ray fluorescence imaging for archaeology Physics education curriculum reform and outreach programs Publication Trends: His 15 most recent articles (2004-2021) demonstrate expertise in: Structural biology methodology Radiation damage mitigation Nanoconfined material behavior Cultural heritage imaging Physics education innovation Crystallography instrumentation Awards: Presidential Young Investigator (1988-1993) Alfred P. Sloan Fellow (1988-1990) Stephen H. Weiss Presidential Fellow (2011-present) Advising & Grants: Active mentor of M.S. student Myeonghak Lee and undergraduate Andrew DiFabbio . His research has received grants supporting student engagement and CHESS synchrotron upgrades.

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Bjørn Torger StokkeView profile

Professor

Norwegian University of Science And TechnologyNorway

Bjørn Torger Stokke is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) . His research focuses on biophysics at the intersection of life sciences and engineering, with emphasis on the physical properties of biological macromolecules and their assemblies, such as hydrogels. Key areas include biopolymer interactions, polyelectrolyte complexes, and responsive hydrogels as biosensors. His work employs advanced techniques like atomic force microscopy (AFM), total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM), and dynamic force spectroscopy. Collaborations with NTNU NanoLab enable microfluidic chip fabrication for hydrogel research. Notable projects include studying amyloid structures, Toll-like receptors, and enzymatic mode-of-action through combined experimental and computational approaches. Publications span topics like hydrogel characterization, cancer cell mechanics, and plant cell wall analysis. His research bridges material science with biomedicine, addressing applications in diagnostics and therapeutics. Collaborations span national and international institutions, emphasizing interdisciplinarity.

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R. MagerleView profile

Professor

Chemnitz University of TechnologyGermany

R. Magerle is a Professor at the Department of Chemical Physics within the Faculty of Natural Sciences at Chemnitz University of Technology. He has held this position since 2004, focusing on nanobiomechanics and chemical physics of biological materials at surfaces and in thin films. Studied physics at University of Konstanz (1985–1991) Doctorate in natural sciences from University of Konstanz (1995) Postdoc at Weizmann Institute of Science (1997–1998) Scientific Assistant at University of Bayreuth (1998–2002) Habilitation in experimental physics at University of Bayreuth (2002) His research interests span nanobiomechanics of collagen fibrils , chemical physics of biological materials , atomic force microscopy , and 3D depth profiling . He has pioneered techniques like MUSIC mode AFM for subsurface imaging and developed methods for analyzing mechanical properties of polymers and biological systems at nanoscale. Recent publications highlight interdisciplinary work at the intersection of biophysics , materials science , and nanotechnology , with a focus on collagen mechanics, polymer deformation, and advanced microscopy techniques. His work has been published in high-impact journals like Nature Materials and ACS Nano .

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Claudio CanaleView profile

Associate Professor

University of GenoaItaly

Claudio Canale is an Associate Professor at the University of Genova (Università di Genova), affiliated with the Department of Physics and Astronomy (DIFA), specifically within the 'Fisica per le scienze della vita, l'ambiente e i beni culturali' department. His research focuses on nanoscale biophysics, particularly protein aggregation mechanisms, lipid membrane interactions, and cell biomechanics. He utilizes advanced techniques like atomic force microscopy (AFM), correlative nanoscopy (STED-AFM), and Raman spectroscopy to study amyloid fibril formation, membrane perturbations, and cellular responses to misfolded proteins. Canale teaches courses in physics, biomedical applications of physics, and data measurement/analysis across multiple degree programs, including Pharmacy, Nursing, Materials Science, and Physics. His recent work includes studies on protein-membrane interactions, nanoparticle toxicity modulation, and the development of biomimetic materials for medical applications. Key research interests include: Amyloid aggregation under mechanical stress and hydrophobic interfaces Correlative microscopy for molecular-scale visualization Effects of cholesterol and aminosterols on membrane stability Biocompatible materials for tissue engineering He collaborates on interdisciplinary projects combining biophysics, nanotechnology, and medical applications, with recent publications addressing neurodegenerative mechanisms, antiviral strategies, and drug delivery systems.

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Tong YeView profile

Associate Professor

Clemson UniversityUnited States

Tong Ye, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at Clemson University's College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences. He directs the Nano and Functional Imaging Lab located in the Bioengineering Building, where his research focuses on advanced optical imaging techniques for biomedical applications. Dr. Ye received his doctorate from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 1995. Research Focus Dr. Ye's research spans three interconnected domains: Optical Imaging Development : Creating novel microscopy platforms including superresolution fluorescence, nonlinear optical, and light sheet microscopy systems for deep tissue visualization. Structural-Functional Assessment : Developing label-free methods for analyzing cell metabolism, tissue viability, and microstructural properties using intrinsic optical signatures. Medical Device Innovation : Engineering clinical imaging tools such as compact nonlinear arthroscopes and laser speckle contrast devices for dermatological and orthopedic applications. Publication Trends Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate Dr. Ye's focus on integrating deep learning with advanced microscopy for quantitative tissue analysis. Key trends include: (1) Development of AI-enhanced imaging pipelines for automated assessment of cartilage viability and cardiac capillarization; (2) Innovation in super-resolution techniques (e.g., Phasor-FSTM) for live-cell imaging; and (3) Application of multimodal approaches in orthopedics, cardiology, and oncology. His work consistently addresses clinical challenges through label-free, noninvasive methodologies. Laboratory The Nano and Functional Imaging Lab specializes in pushing resolution boundaries across spatial scales – from nanoscopic cellular structures to whole-organ imaging. Current projects include developing deep learning-enabled diagnostic platforms for articular cartilage assessment, creating compact imaging devices for clinical use, and investigating microvascular changes in disease models using advanced optical techniques.

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Hong WangView profile

Professor

North Carolina State UniversityUnited States

Hong Wang is a Professor in the Department of Physics at North Carolina State University (NC State), part of the College of Sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of North Carolina (2003), followed by postdoctoral training at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (2004-2008) and the University of Pittsburgh (2008-2011). Her research focuses on single-molecule imaging techniques to study telomere biology, DNA repair mechanisms, and genome maintenance. Key areas include investigating protein-DNA interactions and their roles in aging and cancer through advanced microscopy methods like atomic force microscopy (AFM) and fluorescence imaging. Education: Ph.D. in Physics, University of North Carolina, 2003 Postdoctoral Training: NIEHS (2004-2008), University of Pittsburgh (2008-2011) Research Interests: Dr. Wang’s work explores how proteins dynamically interact with telomeric DNA and repair damaged genomic regions. Her lab uses cutting-edge techniques to visualize molecular processes at unprecedented resolution, aiming to uncover mechanisms underlying genome instability and aging. Recent projects include studying Smc5/6 complex management of DNA repair intermediates (NSF-funded) and mitochondrial DNA replication via Twinkle helicase. Grants & Awards: NIH K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award NSF Grant (2024-2027) for Smc5/6 research NIGMS R01, NIAID R21, and institutional grants from NC State Lab & Collaborations: The Hong Wang Single-molecule Imaging Laboratory collaborates with institutions like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Her team develops novel platforms like nanofluidic devices to study DNA-protein interactions, advancing translational research in human health and environmental biology.

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Sarah BurkeView profile

Associate Professor

University of British ColumbiaCanada

Sarah Burke is an Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia with joint appointments in the Department of Physics & Astronomy and the Department of Chemistry under the Faculty of Science. Her research focuses on nanoscale electronic and optoelectronic materials, utilizing advanced scanning probe microscopy (SPM) techniques such as atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) in ultrahigh vacuum and low-temperature environments. Education: PhD, Physics (McGill University, 2009) MSc, Physics (McGill University, 2005) BSc(Hons), Physics with minor in Chemistry (Dalhousie University, 2002) Research Interests: Sarah’s work bridges nanoscale materials characterization and electronic/optoelectronic device development. Key themes include: Understanding organic semiconductor interfaces through molecular-scale imaging and spectroscopy Investigating graphene and other 2D materials for strain-induced electronic phenomena Developing novel SPM-optical hybrid techniques for clean energy applications Exploring surface science challenges in nanoscale photovoltaics and molecular electronics Scientific Awards: Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Nanoscience (2010, renewed 2015) Peter Wall Institute for Advanced Studies Early Career Scholar Award (2011) Associate Member of CIFAR Nanoelectronics Program (2010-2012) NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship (2009-2010) Advising & Grants: Burke’s group supports interdisciplinary graduate training, with experience in collaborative research programs. Her grants include Canada Research Chair funding and NSERC fellowships. Labs & Teams: She leads the UBC Laboratory for Atomic Imaging Research (LAIR), pioneering SPM techniques for atomic-scale characterization of nanomaterials.

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Sarah CalveView profile

Associate Professor

University of ColoradoUnited States

Dr. Sarah Calve is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder. Her research focuses on the mechanics of soft biological materials, musculoskeletal development, and regeneration, with a particular emphasis on the extracellular matrix (ECM). She leads the Musculoskeletal Extracellular Matrix Laboratory (MEML), which develops novel techniques to visualize ECM architecture and quantify its mechanical properties in developing tissues. Education: B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering, Cornell University, 2000 M.S. in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, 2005 Ph.D. in Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, 2006 Research Interests: Dr. Calve’s work integrates biomechanics, biochemistry, and imaging to understand how ECM composition and mechanics influence musculoskeletal development. Key areas include: Development of bioorthogonal labeling strategies to track ECM proteins Optical clearing and 3D imaging of ECM architecture in mouse models Role of hyaluronic acid in muscle regeneration and repair Design of ECM-mimetic hydrogels for regenerative therapies Awards: NIH Director’s New Innovator Award (2017) Rising Star Junior Faculty Award (2018) National Academy of Engineering Frontiers of Engineering Symposium Invitee (2018) Advancing Research: Dr. Calve’s lab combines experimental and computational approaches to characterize ECM dynamics during development. Projects include collaborations on hyaluronic acid hydrogel design and NIH-funded studies on ECM remodeling. She holds two patents for muscle and tendon engineering methods. Labs/Teams: The MEML collaborates with institutions like the University of Michigan and Northwestern University to advance regenerative therapies based on ECM insights.

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Vasiliki GkretsiView profile

Associate Professor

European University CyprusCyprus

Vasiliki Gkretsi is an Associate Professor at the School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Department of Life Sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Pathology from the University of Pittsburgh (2006) and a Diploma in Biology from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2001). Her research focuses on cancer metastasis mechanisms, particularly the role of focal adhesion proteins like ILK, RSU-1, and GDF-15 in tumor progression. She has held academic roles including Assistant Professor (2017–2020) and Senior Scientist (2015–2017) at the University of Cyprus and University of Thessaly’s biomedical research institutes. Her work integrates bioengineering approaches with molecular biology to study tumor microenvironment dynamics, cell adhesion signaling, and metastatic processes. Key contributions include identifying RSU-1 as a dual-function regulator in breast and glioma cancers and exploring GDF-15’s role in metastasis. She has led projects funded by the European Society for the Study of the Liver (EASL Sheila Sherlock Fellowship) and the Research Promotion Foundation. Education: Ph.D., Cellular and Molecular Pathology, University of Pittsburgh (2006) Diploma in Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2001) Awards: EASL Sheila Sherlock Fellowship (2012–2014) Stephen L. Phillips Scientific Achievement Award (2005) Roles: Special Issue Editor, International Journal of Molecular Sciences and Life Member of Bioethics Evaluation Committee for Biomedical Research Her research spans over 45 peer-reviewed articles and has been cited over 1,600 times (Google Scholar). She holds a provisional U.S. patent for anti-inflammatory methods targeting the actin cytoskeleton.

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