Halvor Holtskog is a Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), affiliated with the Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management within the Faculty of Economics and Management. His research focuses on industrial innovation, sustainable manufacturing, blockchain technology applications, cybersecurity, and organizational performance systems. He has contributed to over 50 publications, including books and peer-reviewed articles, addressing topics like Lean manufacturing, digital transformation, and socio-technical systems in healthcare and industry. His work integrates interdisciplinary approaches, emphasizing the intersection of technology, organizational culture, and sustainability. Notable projects include exploring blockchain’s role in environmental sustainability and healthcare decision-making, as well as advancing learning factory models for manufacturing education. Holtskog has also delivered lectures on cybersecurity and innovation at international conferences, such as EUWin and EDIH4IAE. Teaching responsibilities include courses on organizational change, AI-driven knowledge management, and sustainable strategies. His research trends highlight a strong focus on digitalization, resilience in manufacturing systems, and leveraging technology for societal challenges.
Dr Nic Fair is a Senior Enterprise Fellow and Research Fellow at the University of Southampton, affiliated with the IT-Innovation group within the Digital Health and Biomedical Engineering department of the School of Electronics and Computer Science. He holds a PhD in Digital Education and Web Science, specializing in Personal Learning Networks, VR/AR/XR/MR educational applications, ontology development, and networked learning. His research spans health informatics, manufacturing technology, and agricultural innovation, funded by the European Commission Horizon 2020 and UK National Institute of Health Research. Current projects include the MELD-B initiative studying early-onset multimorbidity, BRIDGES (digital pedagogy), Zero-defect Manufacturing, and the European Connected Factory Platform. He supervises three PhD students in VR/MR and advanced data visualization. Key publications address healthcare data challenges, AI's impact on education, and manufacturing policy. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, with notable contributions to Open Educational Resources, UNESCO initiatives, and the UK Cabinet Office's Open Innovation Team. He serves on the University Senate and is a member of the British Educational Research Association.
Dr. Alim Ul Gias is a Lecturer in Programming at Queen Mary University of London, with a PhD in Computing from Imperial College London. He has over a decade of academic experience across institutions in the UK and Bangladesh, including roles at City, University of London and the University of Dhaka. His research focuses on software engineering, distributed systems, and performance optimization in cloud/edge computing, employing reinforcement learning and predictive analytics. He also investigates AI-assisted education tools to bridge theory-practice gaps in computing education. Education: PhD (Imperial College London), M.Sc. (Software Engineering, University of Dhaka), B.Sc. (Information Technology, University of Dhaka). Completed an internship at Grameenphone during his undergraduate studies. Research Interests: Intelligent performance management, cloud-native applications (microservices), DevOps challenges, and AI-driven educational resources. His work emphasizes open-source tools for net-zero computing and smart manufacturing. Recent publications explore trace sampling (SampleHST-X), cold-start capacity planning (COCOA), and model-driven autoscaling (ATOM). Teaching: Courses include Software Engineering Tools, Algorithms and Data Structures, and Quality Assurance in Software Industry. Labs/Teams: Active contributor to the RADON framework for microservices performance engineering. Collaborates on open-source projects addressing distributed system reliability and scalability.
José Barbosa is a Senior Researcher at the Research Centre in Digitalization and Intelligent Robotics (CeDRI) and an Invited Professor at the Department of Electrical Engineering, Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Portugal. He holds a PhD in Automation and Computer Science from the University of Valenciennes (France) and has extensive experience in European-funded projects like ARUM, GRACE, DA.RE, GO0DMAN, and PERFoRM. His expertise spans Cyber-Physical Systems, Multi-Agent Systems, and manufacturing automation, with over 40 international publications. Research focuses on self-organizing manufacturing architectures, digital twins, and bio-inspired mechanisms. He teaches courses including Microcontroller/Microprocessor Systems, Automation, and Electric Propulsion. Projects emphasize Industry 4.0, zero-defect manufacturing, and intelligent products. His work intersects IoT, data analytics, and human-machine integration in industrial systems.
Patrick Weinberger is a Researcher at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, affiliated with the School of Engineering and the Focal Area ICT - Information & Communications Technology. He leads and collaborates on multiple research initiatives including the VISION project on AI-driven non-destructive testing and HyperMAT for hyperspectral material characterization. His research focuses on advancing X-ray computed tomography analysis through deep learning and augmented reality visualization. Key areas include U-Net architectures for industrial inspection, explainable AI in non-destructive testing, and immersive material analysis systems. His work bridges computer vision with practical industrial applications in aerospace and automotive sectors. Weinberger actively contributes to 4 major research projects including VISION (2025-2028) developing AI systems for non-destructive testing, PEMOWE for energy transition testing networks, HyperMAT for hyperspectral material characterization, and WIFI for future welding industry systems. He operates within the Assistive Technology Lab and Center of Excellence Automotive/Mobility at the Wels campus. Research Output Highlights: 13 total publications (5 articles, 3 conference papers, 2 contributions) Key innovations in U-Net interpretability and AR-based CT visualization Strong focus on industrial AI transfer to manufacturing Technical Collaborations: Primary collaborator with Senck, Kastner, and Fröhler Network spans 6 similar research profiles in deep learning and CT analysis Active in EU Interreg Bavaria-Austria programs
William Greenbank is an Associate Professor at the SDU Centre for Industrial Electronics, University of Bordeaux. His research focuses on dielectric materials for high-performance capacitors and organic photovoltaics, with an emphasis on interfacial stability and degradation mechanisms. PhD in Solar Energy/Organic Electronics, University of Bordeaux (2016) MSc (Hons) in Physical Chemistry, Victoria University of Wellington (2012) His work spans nanocomposite dielectrics , thermal stability of capacitors , and organic solar cell degradation analysis , contributing to sustainable energy solutions. Recent projects include self-healable capacitor materials and layer-by-layer printed nanocomposites. Key research trends from his publications include dielectric material engineering , nanoscale film modification , and power electronics optimization . Collaborations with industry partners aim to reduce DC-link capacitors in grid-connected systems. Fabrikant Mads Clausen Fond grant (2024) for thermal instability research Greenbank co-supervises PhD students and teaches interdisciplinary courses like Experts in Teams , focusing on industrial electronics applications.
Yves Weinand serves as Full Professor of Timber Construction at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), where he directs the transdisciplinary Wood Construction Laboratory (IBOIS) within the School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering. His appointment spans the Institute of Civil and Environmental Engineering (IIC) and teaching units in Architecture (SAR) and Civil Engineering (SGC), reflecting his interdisciplinary focus at the intersection of structural engineering and architectural design. His research expertise spans computational geometry processing, robotic timber construction, and experimental joinery techniques, with particular emphasis on digital fabrication workflows for complex wood structures. Weinand's work integrates augmented reality systems with traditional craftsmanship and develops novel computational methods for timber plate structures and through-tenon connections. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward hybrid digital-physical construction workflows, with increasing focus on AI-assisted fabrication, real-time quality control, and sustainable material utilization. His research bridges fundamental structural mechanics with practical building applications through technology transfer projects. Lignum Prize - Western Region Mention (2018) French Academy of Architecture silver medal (2017) Grand Prix d'architecture de Wallonie for Vidy theater (2019) Wood Distinction 2019 for Vaud Parliament building (2019) Medal for Research and Technique from French Academy of Architecture (2017) Weinand supervises numerous doctoral candidates while teaching ten courses across bachelor to postgraduate levels, including computational architecture and digital timber construction. His laboratory collaborates with industry partners through technology transfer contracts for projects like the Annen Vault, Rossinière Centre, and Brussels Sportstower, implementing EPFL-developed computational methods in real-world construction. The IBOIS laboratory operates as a transdisciplinary research hub connecting architectural design exploration with structural engineering innovation, maintaining active partnerships with timber industry stakeholders and architectural practices across Europe.
Halvor Holtskog is a Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in the Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management under the Faculty of Economics. His research focuses on blockchain technology, sustainable manufacturing, lean management, innovation systems, and organizational interoperability. He has authored/co-authored books such as *Blockchain as a Technology for Environmental Sustainability* (2024) and *Digitalization and Sustainable Manufacturing: Twin Transition in Norway* (2024). His work spans interdisciplinary areas including cybersecurity, healthcare informatics, and socio-technical systems. Holtskog teaches courses like IDS4006 (Organizational Change and Leadership) and SMF3091 (Sustainable Strategies). His recent publications emphasize blockchain’s role in environmental sustainability and supply chain innovation. Research Interests: Application of blockchain in environmental and healthcare contexts Lean and digital transformation in manufacturing Cybersecurity culture and organizational resilience Interoperability in smart service ecosystems Key Articles Trends: Holtskog’s recent work (2020–2024) highlights blockchain’s potential for sustainable innovation, cybersecurity resilience, and lean management adaptations. He frequently collaborates with institutions like NTNU and international researchers on topics such as supply chain transparency, healthcare decision-making frameworks, and organizational learning. Teaching & Advising: Active in master’s supervision (IDS4100) and course leadership in digital organizational structures (IØ6571). His teaching emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and organizational change. No grants or student advisee lists are explicitly detailed in the provided texts. Labs/Teams: Involved in learning factory initiatives (e.g., Roller Skis Assembly Line project) and contributes to interdisciplinary research teams focusing on socio-technical experiments and workplace innovation.
Professor Peter SP Wong is the Associate Dean (Construction Management) at RMIT University's School of Property Construction and Project Management. He holds a Professorial appointment and leads research in immersive technologies, sustainable construction, and organizational change. His work spans over 150 publications and $3M+ in research funding, including projects on VR-based compliance platforms and offsite housing manufacturing. Research Focus: Professor Wong's expertise lies in applying VR/AR/MR to construction defect management, modular construction (MiC), and sustainable practices. He actively addresses construction waste reduction, dispute resolution, and industry 4.0 integration. Awards & Recognition: He has received the Jan Korevaar Most Outstanding Paper Award (2018), multiple Outstanding Reviewer Awards, and the RMIT Vice-Chancellor's Research Impact Award (2021). His editorial roles include Associate Editor of the ICE Proceedings: Management, Procurement and Law and ASCE Journal of Legal Affairs and Dispute Resolution . Grants & Projects: Key initiatives include a $165k project on circular economy practices (2023–2025) and a $345k ARC Linkage Grant on offsite housing supply chains (2014–2019). He also pioneered a VR-based WIL program for global student teams. Professional Roles: Member of ASBEC Task Groups on Sustainable Housing and Net-Zero Buildings, Education Board Member of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), and external examiner for multiple universities' construction programs.
Subhash Risbud is a Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of California, Davis. His research focuses on the synthesis, structure, and properties of advanced materials such as photonic and electronic materials, quantum dots, amorphous solids, glasses, and ceramics. He specializes in materials characterization using techniques like electron microscopy, NMR, Raman spectroscopy, and optical methods. His work spans biomaterials integration, including lipid bilayers on nanoporous substrates and biohybrid sol-gel systems for renewable energy applications. Key areas include nanoconfinement effects on liquids, surface charge phenomena in mesoporous materials, and additive manufacturing of metallic alloys like magnesium. He has pioneered methods for encapsulating membrane proteins within porous matrices to enhance stability and functionality. Notable contributions include studies on nanoconfined water freezing dynamics, surface charge effects in nanomaterial delivery systems, and development of photocatalytic titanium dioxide gels for hydrogen production. His research bridges materials science with biological systems, emphasizing practical applications in energy, environmental science, and biomedicine.
Dr.-Ing. Eros Reato is a Research Associate at the Chair of Electronic Devices, RWTH Aachen University. Based in Aachen, Germany, his work focuses on advanced graphene and 2D material-based electronic devices with applications in flexible electronics and high-frequency systems. Research Areas: Graphene and 2D material device fabrication Flexible electronics for millimeter-wave applications Defect analysis in 2D transistors Admittance spectroscopy techniques Adhesion testing of nanoscale materials Projects & Collaborations: European 2D-Experimental Pilot Line ATIQ Graphene FLAGSHIP GIMMIK MOSTFLEX NeuroSys NobleNEMS ULTIMOS2 2D-NEMS Contact: Room B3.05, Campus Boulevard 53 Phone: +49 241 80-23074 Email: eros.reato@eld.rwth-aachen.de
Professor Stephen Skinner is a Professor at Imperial College London's Department of Materials within the Faculty of Engineering. He holds the CeresPower/RAEng Research Chair in Electrochemical Devices for a Zero Carbon Economy since 2021. His research focuses on advanced materials for energy technologies, particularly solid oxide fuel cells, high-temperature electrolysers, and proton-conducting oxides. Collaborations span European, Canadian, and Japanese institutions, notably through projects like Hermes (proton transport studies) and Epistore (hydrogen production in thin-film cells). Skinner leads the Skinner Research Group, emphasizing in-situ characterization using neutron/synchrotron techniques and structural-electrochemical property correlations. He is affiliated with the Energy Futures Lab and Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering. Notable recognitions include Fellowships from the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Royal Society of Chemistry, and professional engineering bodies. Key grants include EPSRC-JSPS collaborations and EU-funded initiatives. His work addresses interfaces in sodium nickel chloride batteries and exsolution-derived catalysts. Recent research highlights include designing low-temperature solid-state electrochemical cells and robotic fabrication advancements for clean energy systems.
Wolfgang Birk is a Professor of Automatic Control at Luleå University of Technology (LTU), affiliated with the Division of Signals and Systems within the Department of Computer Science, Electrical and Space Engineering. Currently, he is on leave of absence to support his spin-off company Predge in an intense growth phase, while maintaining his academic affiliation with LTU. Professor Birk received his MSc in Electrical Engineering from Universität des Saarlandes in Germany in 1997, followed by PhD studies at Luleå University of Technology where he earned his PhD in Automatic Control in 2002. His academic journey includes professional experience at Volvo Car Corporation (2002-2006) before returning to LTU in 2006. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 2012 and to Full Professor in 2015. From 2013-2016, he served as Director of Third Cycle Studies, and from 2017-2019, he was a member of the LTU board. Professor Birk's research focuses on the boundary between control theory and practical industrial applications. His primary research interests include structural properties of multivariable and complex systems, control structure selection and interaction in multivariable systems, multivariable and decentralized control, estimation and prediction of system behavior (particularly for condition monitoring and maintenance), and modeling and simulation of complex dynamic systems. His work spans several application domains including process control in industries, transport systems (particularly railway), and energy systems (renewables, district heating and cooling, data centers, and buildings). His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward practical applications of control theory in industrial settings, with particular emphasis on Zero Defect Manufacturing, district energy networks, predictive maintenance, and digital twin technologies. His work demonstrates a consistent focus on bridging theoretical control concepts with real-world implementation challenges across multiple industries. Professor Birk has received notable recognition for his work: Henry Ford Technology Award for the development of Volvo Cars Driver Alert (2007) The Donald Julius Groen Prize 2007 for the journal article "A Driver-Distraction-Based Lane Keeping Assistance System" As an academic supervisor, Professor Birk has guided numerous doctoral students to completion, including Miguel Castaño (2012), Ulf Andersson (2013), Roland Hostettler (2014), Dennis Kleyko (2018), Ali Khadim (2018), and Johan Simonsson (2024). He has also supervised postdoctoral fellows including Maryam Razi, Martin Haller, Roland Hostettler, Miguel Castaño, and Khalid Atta. His research has been supported by various funding sources including H2020 Framework Program, ERA-Net SES, VINNOVA, and the Swedish Energy Agency, with projects focusing on areas such as AI-augmented cooling systems, flexible energy system integration, and efficient wood drying. Professor Birk is actively involved in both academic and commercial applications of control theory, having co-founded SafeCont AB during his PhD studies and later starting SafeMobility (now Sentient+) in 2009. His current focus on Predge represents the continued translation of academic research into practical industrial solutions.
Dr. Mostafa Yakout serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Alberta. A Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) licensed in Alberta and Ontario, he also holds an Adjunct Research Professor position at Western University (2022-2025). Previously, he served as a Sessional Instructor at McMaster University and an Assistant Lecturer at Alexandria University. His educational background includes: Postdoctoral Fellowship, McMaster University, Canada, 2019-2022 Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering, McMaster University, Canada, 2015-2019 M.Sc. Production Engineering, Alexandria University, Egypt, 2011-2013 B.Sc. Production Engineering, Alexandria University, Egypt, 2005-2010 Dr. Yakout's research focuses on developing process-driven solutions for additive manufacturing of next-generation materials, including alloys containing rare-earth metals, high-performance metal alloys, and high-temperature materials. His group employs numerical, analytical, and experimental methods to establish critical process-structure-property-performance relationships. This work directly supports clean technology development and industrial transformation toward net-zero emissions in Canadian manufacturing. Analysis of his recent publications (2021-2025) reveals dominant themes in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), particularly Inconel 617 applications for small modular reactors, rare earth element-doped coatings, and magnetic alloy optimization for electric motors. His research consistently integrates multiphysics modeling, in-situ process monitoring, and microstructure-property relationship studies targeting aerospace, nuclear energy, and biomedical engineering applications. No specific scientific awards or fellowships are documented in the provided materials. Dr. Yakout currently accepts undergraduate students for research supervision. His group collaborates extensively with industry, government agencies, and academic institutions across Canada and internationally. As CARDD-Tech Research Lead, he focuses on critical minerals and rare earth elements to advance sustainable manufacturing solutions aligned with national clean technology initiatives. He leads the ANGAM Group, which specializes in additive manufacturing process development for advanced materials. The team's work emphasizes hybrid additive manufacturing techniques and design optimization for industrial applications requiring high-performance material solutions.
Prahalada Rao is an Associate Professor in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). He specializes in manufacturing, sensing technologies, and data science with a focus on additive manufacturing processes. His research emphasizes sensor-based monitoring, thermal physics, and quality assurance in advanced manufacturing. Education: Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, Oklahoma State University (2013) M.S., Industrial Engineering, Oklahoma State University (2006) B.Eng., Production Engineering, Victoria Jubilee Technical Institute, Bombay University (2003) His research interests include additive manufacturing (e.g., laser powder bed fusion, directed energy deposition), real-time process monitoring using heterogeneous sensors, and data-driven quality control. He has pioneered methods combining spectral graph theory and machine learning for defect detection in 3D printing. Key contributions span thermal modeling of additive processes, predictive analytics for part quality, and bio-manufacturing applications. His work has attracted over $2M in federal funding from NSF, DOE, and ONR. Awards: 2018 NSF CAREER Award for smart additive manufacturing research 2017 SME Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer Award 2019 UNL College of Engineering Research Award Grants & Funding: NSF CAREER: Smart Additive Manufacturing (2018-2023) DOE: Thermal Physics in Metal Additive Manufacturing (2019-2024) NSF AI Institute Planning: Secure Smart Manufacturing (2020-2023) He advises on advanced manufacturing projects and collaborates with industry on ceramic/metal 3D printing and bioprinting applications. His lab focuses on bridging sensor data analytics with manufacturing physics to achieve zero-defect production systems.
