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Mirela-Andreea PARASCHIVView profile

Researcher

• Optical Spectroscopy
• Pharmaceutical Photodegradation
• Polymer Nanocomposites
• +3 more

Mirela-Andreea PARASCHIV serves as an Assistant Researcher at the Laboratory of Optical Processes in Nanostructured Materials within the National Institute of Materials Physics in Măgurele, Romania. Her research bridges pharmaceutical stability analysis and advanced nanomaterials development through sophisticated optical characterization techniques. Education Licentiate in Biophysics (2015-2018), University of Bucharest, Faculty of Physics Master in Medical Physics (2018-2020), University of Bucharest, Faculty of Physics Doctoral Candidate since 2021, Doctoral School of Physics, University of Bucharest (Optics, Spectroscopy, Plasma and Lasers) Research Expertise Dr. PARASCHIV specializes in comprehensive optical characterization including UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR absorption, Raman scattering, and photoluminescence analysis. Her methodological expertise spans nanocomposite synthesis, centrifugation techniques, and experimental data interpretation. She has developed novel approaches for analyzing pharmaceutical photodegradation pathways and polymer-nanomaterial interactions. Publication Trends Her recent publications demonstrate dual research trajectories: pharmaceutical photostability studies examining nifedipine, ampicillin, pantoprazole, and losartan through multimodal spectroscopy; and advanced nanomaterials research focusing on polymer-TiO 2 , polyurethane-WS 2 , and polystyrene-graphene oxide composites. These works consistently employ correlated spectroscopic techniques to reveal molecular-level degradation mechanisms and structure-property relationships. Scientific Contributions Dr. PARASCHIV co-holds a patent for thermoplastic polyurethane-TiO 2 nanoparticle composite synthesis. Her collaborative research extends across multiple Romanian institutions including the University of Bucharest and INCDFM, with significant contributions to understanding nanomaterial-polymer interfaces and pharmaceutical degradation kinetics. Laboratory Work At the Laboratory of Optical Processes in Nanostructured Materials, she leads experimental investigations using advanced spectroscopic equipment to characterize novel composite materials. Her work integrates wet chemical synthesis with comprehensive optical analysis to develop materials with tailored properties for energy storage, pharmaceutical applications, and functional coatings.

Corinna MaassView profile

Researcher

• Active Matter
• Soft Matter Physics
• Microfluidics
• +5 more

Dr. Corinna Maass is a Research Group Leader leading the Active Soft Matter Group within the Department of Dynamics of Complex Fluids at the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization in Göttingen, Germany. She has held this position since 2014, establishing herself as a leading researcher in active matter systems and self-propelled droplets. Institution: Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization Department: Dynamics of Complex Fluids Research Group: Active Soft Matter Location: Göttingen, Germany Dr. Maass completed her physics diploma at the University of Konstanz (1999-2004), followed by doctoral research on 'Dynamics of levitated granular media' at the same institution, which she completed in 2009. She then conducted postdoctoral research at New York University (2010-2013) in the Chaikin and Seeman group working on 'Self replicating DNA nanostructures,' supported by a German Academic Exchange Service fellowship. Her research focuses on active matter systems far from equilibrium, particularly active liquid crystal emulsions consisting of uniform droplets studied in complex microfluidic geometries. These systems exhibit surprising similarities to biological analogues such as bacteria or plankton, displaying self-propulsion, navigation, and collective effects like swarming. Her work bridges fundamental physics with potential applications in microfluidics and soft robotics. The research employs experimental approaches combined with theoretical modeling to understand the emergent behaviors in these non-equilibrium systems. Analysis of Dr. Maass's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on the dynamics of active droplets and microswimmers, with increasing sophistication in controlling and understanding their behavior. Her work spans fundamental investigations of self-propulsion mechanisms, collective dynamics, and interactions with complex environments. The research shows strong interdisciplinary connections between soft matter physics, fluid dynamics, and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics, with applications emerging in microfluidic technology and biomimetic systems. Dr. Maass has successfully advised students including Strehl, A.-M. who completed a bachelor thesis on 'Self-propelling nematic droplets: role of director field elasticity' (2017) and Bantje, D. who worked on 'Interferometrie an aktiven Emulsionen' (2018). Her research is supported by the infrastructure of the Max Planck Institute, providing access to advanced microfluidics facilities and collaborative opportunities within the broader dynamics of complex fluids department. The Active Soft Matter Group operates within state-of-the-art laboratories at the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, utilizing advanced microfluidic setups, high-speed imaging systems, and precision manipulation techniques to study active droplet systems. The group collaborates extensively with other research teams both within the institute and internationally, particularly with groups specializing in theoretical modeling of active matter systems.

Jamie RichesView profile

Associate Professor

• Electron Microscopy
• Materials Science
• Virus Structure
• +4 more

Jamie Riches is an Associate Professor and Principal Research Infrastructure Specialist in Electron Microscopy at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), working within the Central Analytical Research Facility (CARF) in the Faculty of Science. With extensive experience in transmission electron microscopy, he serves as a Centre Representative and Transmission Electron Microscopist, managing core facility operations while supporting diverse research projects across materials science and biochemistry. Dr. Riches earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Physics from the University of Queensland. Prior to joining QUT's Institute for Future Environments, he worked at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Heidelberg, Germany, where he conducted research on virus structure using cryo-electron tomography and sub-tomogram averaging. His earlier career included positions at the Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis at the University of Queensland, collaborating with researchers in the Institute for Molecular Biosciences and the Nanomaterials Centre. Riches' research expertise centers on electron microscopy applications for solving diverse problems in materials science. His work provides structural, compositional, and crystallographic information on materials with atomic-scale resolution, enabling researchers to understand and optimize their materials. His research spans multiple disciplines including nanomaterials characterization, virus structure analysis, and advanced materials development. His microscopy expertise has been instrumental in elucidating structural features of viruses including HIV, Marburg virus, and Ebola virus, as well as characterizing nanomaterials such as quantum dots, mesoporous films, and nanocomposite membranes. His extensive publication record demonstrates significant contributions to fields including materials characterization, virus structure, and nanotechnology. Recent work focuses on applying electron microscopy to energy conversion materials, environmental applications, and biological systems. He has developed expertise in cryo-electron tomography, sub-tomogram averaging, and advanced sample preparation techniques that enable high-resolution imaging of complex biological and materials systems. Member of Australian Society for Electron Microscopy (since 1996) Extensive collaborations across multiple disciplines Key contributor to global guidelines for imaging scientists' career paths Active participant in advancing microscopy techniques and applications As a core facility manager, Riches provides essential infrastructure and expertise to support QUT's research mission. His technical expertise and collaborative spirit have made significant contributions to numerous research projects across multiple disciplines, establishing him as a vital resource for the university's research community.

Jorge Andres Velasquez CockView profile

Research Professor

• Nanocellulose
• Material Science
• Food Science
• +7 more

Jorge Andres Velasquez Cock serves as a Research Professor at Pontifical Bolivarian University, actively contributing to the New Materials Research Group (GINUMA) and Agroindustrial Research Group (GRAIN). His work spans multiple research projects through 2026, including the development of bioinks from Colombian agro-industrial byproducts, strengthening agricultural value chains for cacao, corn, and shrimp, and creating edible coatings for Pacific Coast fruits. Dr. Velasquez Cock's research focuses on the intersection of nanotechnology and food science, particularly exploring nanocellulose applications in food systems, sustainable packaging, and biomedical applications. His work leverages Colombian agricultural byproducts including turmeric rhizomes, coffee grounds, and fique residues to develop innovative materials that support circular economy principles. The fingerprint analysis of his research shows strong connections to nanocellulose (94%), nanofiber technology (80%), food industry applications (61%), and advanced material characterization techniques including X-ray diffraction and FTIR spectroscopy. His recent publication trends demonstrate a clear trajectory toward sustainable material development with emphasis on food safety, waste valorization, and biomedical applications. The 15 most recent articles reveal consistent focus on Colombian agricultural resources, with particular attention to turmeric starch characterization, cellulose nanofiber applications, and edible packaging solutions. His work bridges fundamental material science with practical industrial applications, contributing significantly to the UN Sustainable Development Goals related to responsible consumption and production. As project director and co-investigator on multiple active research initiatives funded through Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas and other Colombian research entities, Dr. Velasquez Cock leads interdisciplinary teams addressing critical challenges in food security, sustainable materials, and biotechnology. His laboratory work centers on the New Materials Research Group facilities where advanced characterization equipment supports his team's research on nanocellulose, edible films, and byproduct valorization strategies.

David H. HarrisonView profile

Professor

• Structural Biology
• Enzymology
• Diabetes Research
• +3 more

David H. Harrison, PhD, is a Professor and Vice Chair of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFUMS), with additional affiliations to the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies and Chicago Medical School. He directs the Academic Success program and the X-Ray Core Facility within the Rosalind Franklin Structural Biology Laboratory. Dr. Harrison earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Chemistry, followed by an MPhil and PhD in Molecular Biochemistry and Biophysics from Yale University. His research integrates structural biology , enzymology , and molecular recognition to study diabetes-related proteins and bacterial enzymes. Key projects include: Mechanistic studies of human aldose reductase for diabetes therapeutic design. Structural analysis of methylglyoxal synthase and glyoxalase I in bacterial pathways. Solvent mapping techniques for protein functional group identification. His publications (2010–1999) emphasize X-ray crystallography , enzyme mechanisms , and inhibitor design , with recurring themes in diabetes, bacterial metabolism, and allosteric regulation. Trends highlight atomic-level protein function analysis and cross-disciplinary collaborations. Awards & Grants: Juvenile Diabetes Postdoctoral Fellowship at Brandeis University. Funding from NIH, NSF, and private foundations. Academic Service: He mentors graduate/professional students, oversees the Structural Biology Lab, and participates in university committees and community outreach.

• Soft Matter Physics
• Colloidal Systems
• Polymeric Systems
• +5 more

Gianmarco Munaò is a Full-time fixed-term researcher (type B) at the Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Physical Sciences and Earth Sciences (MIFT) at the University of Messina, specializing in Theoretical Physics of Matter. He serves as Lecturer for the course "Analysis and models of biomedical signals" in the Master's Degree in Physics program. His educational background includes: PhD in Physics from the University of Messina (2009), with thesis on "Improvements of RISM theory in molecular liquids investigations" Graduation with honors in Physics from the University of Messina (2005), with thesis on "Theoretical and simulative study of structural properties of mixtures of molecular liquids" Munaò's research focuses on theoretical and simulation studies of condensed matter physics, particularly soft matter systems including colloidal, polymeric, and biological systems. He employs numerical simulations based on Molecular Dynamics and Monte Carlo methods, along with theoretical tools based on integral equations, to investigate structural and thermodynamic properties of complex systems. His work has significant applications in nanotechnology, materials science, and biophysics. His recent publications demonstrate expertise across multiple domains including colloidal physics, polymer nanocomposites, molecular dynamics simulations, and statistical mechanics. The research shows a consistent focus on understanding self-assembly processes, phase behavior, and structural properties of complex fluid systems. Scientific qualifications: National scientific qualification for associate professor in sector 02/B2 (Theoretical Physics of Matter) (2018-2027) National scientific qualification for associate professor in sector 03/A2 (Models and Methodologies for Chemical Sciences) (2018-2027) Munaò has participated in numerous research projects, including ERC projects and PRIN MIUR grants. He has collaborated extensively with research groups at Sapienza University of Rome, University of Salerno, and other international institutions. As a referee, he has reviewed for prestigious journals including Soft Matter, Physical Review E, and Journal of Chemical Physics. He is active in the scientific community, regularly presenting at conferences such as the International Soft Matter Conference and Fismat.

Nenad StojilovicView profile

Professor

• Nanomaterials
• Metal-Oxide Nanofibers
• Materials Characterization
• +3 more

Nenad Stojilovic is a Professor at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, where he has been employed since 2009. Prior to this position, he served as a Visiting Assistant Professor at John Carroll University in Cleveland from 2007 to 2009 and as a Postdoctoral Research Scientist at Columbia University in New York from 2005 to 2007. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Theoretical Physics from the University of Belgrade, Serbia, and a Ph.D. from the University of Akron, where his dissertation research investigated the interaction between zirconium surfaces and simple gases under ultra-high vacuum conditions. Professor Stojilovic's research program spans two distinct domains: Materials Science: He specializes in electrospun metal-oxide nanofibers, with emphasis on composite systems including titania-alumina, titania-zinc oxide, and titania-ceria. His group utilizes advanced characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area analysis, UV-visible spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy to analyze structural and functional properties. Physics Education Research: He investigates the cognitive impact of frequent informal testing (testing effect) on physics learning and develops pedagogical frameworks for integrating research-like activities into undergraduate laboratories to enhance data visualization and scientific reasoning skills. No scientific awards or major grants are documented in the provided text, though his dual expertise demonstrates significant contributions to both nanomaterials innovation and physics pedagogy.

Vilko SmrečkiView profile

Researcher

• NMR Spectroscopy
• Biochemistry
• Molecular Spectroscopy
• +4 more

Vilko Smrečki is a Senior Researcher and Assistant Director at the NMR Centre of Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb, Croatia. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Zagreb (1998) and has maintained continuous academic engagement through teaching and research collaborations with the University of Zagreb and University of Split. His research spans NMR spectroscopy applications in biochemistry, material science, and quantum chemical modeling. Key interests include structural analysis of bioactive molecules, DNA/RNA secondary structures, zeolite nanomaterials, and machine learning applications in NMR data interpretation. His work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary collaboration across chemistry, physics, and computational science. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent focus on advancing NMR methodologies for complex systems, with increasing integration of computational approaches since 2015. His research bridges fundamental NMR physics with practical applications in petroleum analysis, glycobiology, and nanomaterial characterization. Ruđer Bošković Institute Award for best scientific papers (2020) Smrečki has mentored numerous graduate students across chemistry programs at the University of Zagreb and supervised multiple doctoral theses. His current leadership of the Horizon Europe R-NMR project demonstrates ongoing grant acquisition success. The NMR Centre under his direction maintains active collaborations with international research groups and provides essential infrastructure for structural analysis across multiple scientific disciplines.

Rebecca Katharina PittkowskiView profile

Assistant Professor

• Electrocatalysis
• Nanomaterials
• X-ray Spectroscopy
• +3 more

Rebecca Katharina Pittkowski serves as a Tenure Track Assistant Professor in Experimental Electrochemistry within the Department of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen, where she leads research at the Center of High Entropy Alloy Catalysis (CHEAC). Her work focuses on nanomaterials for electrochemical energy conversion reactions, utilizing advanced X-ray characterization techniques at large-scale facilities. Her primary research interests include: Development of electrocatalysts for energy applications Structural characterization using X-ray absorption and scattering techniques Operando studies of catalysts during electrochemical reactions High entropy alloy catalysis for sustainable energy solutions Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2024-2025) reveals a strong emphasis on operando X-ray methodologies to probe catalyst structural dynamics during reactions, particularly for oxygen evolution and fuel cell applications. Key trends include systematic investigation of NiFe layered double hydroxides, iridium-based catalysts, and high-entropy alloys, with significant attention to degradation mechanisms and stability enhancement strategies. Teaching responsibilities include course leadership for the BSc elective Chemistry in the Green Energy Transition and instruction in the MSc course Structural Tools in Nanoscience , alongside contributions to foundational inorganic chemistry education.

Lucas J. KoernerView profile

Associate Professor

• Image sensors
• Camera systems
• Optical time-of-flight
• +9 more

Lucas J. Koerner is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering at the University of St. Thomas School of Engineering. He holds a PhD and MS in Physics from Cornell University and a BA in Physics and Mathematics from Northwestern University. Education: PhD in Physics, Cornell University MS in Physics, Cornell University BA in Physics and Mathematics (Integrated Science Program), Northwestern University Research Interests: Dr. Koerner specializes in electronics instrumentation for novel detection applications. His expertise spans image sensors , camera systems , optical time-of-flight , sensors , CMOS x-ray detectors , electrical instrumentation and data acquisition , and open source hardware . His work enables breakthroughs in medical diagnostics, scientific instrumentation, and industrial sensing through custom hardware solutions. Publication Trends: Recent publications (2018-2020) focus on embedded sensor networks, 3D-printed EMI shielding, and photodiode readout techniques. Earlier work (2006-2012) pioneered X-ray pixel array detectors for synchrotron and free-electron laser applications, enabling high-resolution protein crystallography and materials science breakthroughs through time-resolved measurements. Professional Experience: Prior to academia, Dr. Koerner developed radiation-hardened electronics for space missions at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab and led camera electrical testing for mobile devices at a Fortune 500 company. His Cornell research created CMOS readout circuits for X-ray detectors used in single-particle diffraction studies. Teaching: He teaches Digital Design, Electricity & Magnetism, and Senior Design Clinic, emphasizing hands-on instrumentation development and open-source hardware principles.

Marco DiegelView profile

Researcher

• Nanomaterials
• Thin films
• Memristors
• +5 more

Dr. Marco Diegel is a Researcher at the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (Leibniz-IPHT) in Jena, Germany, affiliated with the Center of Competence for Micro and Nanotechnologies and the Microstructure Analysis Working Group. His contact information includes email (marco.diegel@leibniz-ipht.de) and office locations HG S43 and HG 151. Dr. Diegel's research focuses on advanced materials for optoelectronic and energy applications with expertise in nanomaterials synthesis , thin film characterization , and device fabrication . Key areas include: Development of porous platinum for electrocatalysis and optical applications Investigation of epsilon-near-zero properties in $$\text{ITO}$$ thin films Study of resistive switching mechanisms in memristive devices using $$\text{HoMnO}_3$$ and $$\text{BiFeO}_3$$ Design of nanozymes for colorimetric detection applications Characterization of plasmonic nanowire lasers using $$\text{ZnO}$$ structures Analysis of Dr. Diegel's recent publications reveals a strong interdisciplinary focus bridging fundamental materials science with practical device implementation. His work demonstrates particular strength in resistive memory devices , photocatalysis , and optical sensing , with collaborations spanning physics, chemistry, and engineering disciplines. The progression of his research shows increasing sophistication in materials engineering for targeted applications. Dr. Diegel is an active contributor to the Microstructure Analysis Working Group at Leibniz-IPHT, with research that has practical implications across renewable energy, environmental monitoring, and biomedical technologies. His work on tunable magnetic nanoparticles and nanozyme-based sensors shows particular promise for real-world applications.

Shane StadlerView profile

Professor

• Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
• Magnetocaloric Materials
• Spintronics
• +4 more

Shane Stadler is a Professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Louisiana State University (LSU), where he leads experimental research in condensed matter physics. He holds a Ph.D. from Tulane University (1998). His work focuses on synthesizing and characterizing magnetic materials for energy applications, including magnetocaloric materials for solid-state cooling and spin-polarized alloys for spintronics. His lab facilities include pulsed laser deposition, magnetic property measurement systems, and x-ray diffraction equipment. Collaborations include projects with Montana State University, Southern Illinois University, and LSU colleagues. Stadler is co-author of the widely-used physics textbook Cutnell & Johnson's Physics and has written sci-fi novels such as the Exoskeleton series. His research is funded by DOE Basic Energy Sciences and NSF grants. His recent work explores phase transitions in Heusler alloys, boron-doped Ni-Mn-In systems, and high-entropy alloy applications. Key achievements include demonstrating large magnetocaloric effects in metastable phases and developing methods to control martensitic transitions through quenching/pressure techniques.

• Materials Chemistry
• Nanomaterials
• Inorganic Chemistry
• +7 more

Dr. Joseph Bear is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences within the School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry at Kingston University's Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education. With expertise in inorganic chemistry and nanomaterials, his research bridges fundamental chemistry with practical applications in environmental sustainability and healthcare. His educational background includes: MChem (Hons) from University of East Anglia (2011) Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from University College London (2014) Postdoctoral research at Swansea University Ramsay Memorial Fellowship at UCL (2015) Dr. Bear's research portfolio encompasses quantum dots, organogels, drug delivery systems, nanoparticle synthesis, superhydrophobic surfaces, and polymer chemistry. His recent publications reveal a strategic focus on sustainable materials development, particularly in environmental remediation technologies like mercury removal using biowaste-derived composites, and biomedical applications including improved tumor-targeted cancer therapies using iron oxide nanoparticles. His work on "inverse vulcanization" sulfur polymers demonstrates innovation in sustainable materials synthesis. His notable scientific achievements include: Ramsay Memorial Fellowship Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC) Member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (MIMMM) Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Dr. Bear teaches across multiple programs including Biochemistry BSc (Hons), Chemistry BSc (Hons), and Pharmaceutical Science degrees. His research group focuses on advanced materials synthesis with applications in water purification, medical imaging, and cancer therapy. Current projects include developing sustainable nanomaterials for environmental applications and optimizing magnetic hyperthermia techniques for targeted drug delivery.

Jochen StahnView profile

Researcher

• Neutron Scattering
• Materials Science
• Condensed Matter Physics
• +5 more

Dr. Jochen Stahn is an Instrument Scientist at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland, leading the AMOR reflectometer facility. He specializes in neutron scattering techniques for studying advanced materials, with a focus on thin films, magnetic systems, and energy storage materials. His research spans topics such as magnetic proximity effects in superconductors/ferromagnet multilayers, lithium ion battery materials, and interface engineering in nanostructured systems. He has pioneered developments in neutron optics including the Selene guide concept for enhanced reflectometry. Key contributions include in-situ neutron reflectometry studies of thin film growth mechanisms, magnetic domain structure analysis, and neutron instrumentation advancements. His work integrates materials characterization with fundamental physics insights, addressing challenges in energy materials and spintronics. Dr. Stahn has collaborated with international teams on ESS instrument development and led projects in neutron beam focusing systems. His research outputs include over 100 peer-reviewed articles, with emphasis on structural and dynamic properties of complex materials at the nanoscale.

• Structural Biology
• Biophysics
• Membrane Proteins
• +3 more

Robert Bosman is a Professor affiliated with the University of Hamburg's Medical Faculty, Department of Structural Biology. His research focuses on elucidating molecular mechanisms of membrane proteins and light-driven processes using advanced structural biology techniques such as X-ray crystallography, XFEL-based methods, and time-resolved spectroscopy. Key areas of interest include protein dynamics, photoactive proteins (e.g., rhodopsins, phytochromes), and enzymatic catalysis in metalloproteins. Affiliation: University of Hamburg Medical Faculty Key Techniques: Serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX), synchotron/XFEL applications, time-resolved studies Highlighted Research: Structural basis of sensory rhodopsin photocycles, dynamics of cytochrome c oxidase, photosynthetic reaction centers, and phytochrome photoactivation