David Salesin is an Affiliate Professor in the Department of Computer Science & Engineering at the University of Washington and a Principal Scientist/Director at Google Research since 2019. He has held academic roles at Cornell University (Visiting Assistant Professor, 1991-92) and guest professorships at Zhejiang University. His career spans academia and industry, including leadership at Adobe's Creative Technologies Lab (2005-17) and Microsoft Research (1999-2005). PhD, Stanford University (1991) Sc.B., Brown University (1983) His research focuses on computer graphics, particularly non-photorealistic rendering, digital typography, color science, and adaptive document layout. He pioneered techniques in image-based rendering, pen-and-ink illustration, and facial animation, with applications in multimedia and user interface design. Article Trends : His work bridges procedural content generation, 3D visualization, and artistic computing, emphasizing user-driven tools for creative industries. Key subfields include texture advection, multiresolution modeling, and real-time camera control for virtual cinematography. Scientific Awards : ACM Fellow (2002) ACM SIGGRAPH Achievement Award (2000) Carnegie Foundation Professor of the Year (1998) NSF Presidential Faculty Fellow (1995-98) Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship (1995-97) Numerous industry grants and lab donations He has advised over 30 PhD and Master's students, including leaders at Microsoft, Pixar, and Google. His labs at UW and Adobe focused on graphics, imaging, and creativity tools.
Hanbyul Joo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Seoul National University (SNU). Prior to joining SNU, he was a Research Scientist at Facebook AI Research (FAIR) in Menlo Park. He completed his Ph.D. in the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University, working with Yaser Sheikh, and received his M.S. in Electrical Engineering and B.S. in Computer Science from KAIST, Korea. Dr. Joo's educational journey began at KAIST, where he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees. He then pursued his Ph.D. at Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute, completing his dissertation titled "Sensing, Measuring, and Modeling Social Signals in Nonverbal Communication." His doctoral work focused on developing the Panoptic Studio, a unique sensing system with over 500 synchronized cameras for capturing social interactions. Dr. Joo's research primarily focuses on endowing machines and robots with the ability to perceive and understand human behaviors in 3D . His goal is to build "social Artificial Intelligence" that can interact with humans using social signals (body languages). He pursues this direction using data-driven methods where data is collected by measuring the wide spectrum of social signals transmitted during interpersonal social interaction. His research spans computer vision, machine learning, computer graphics, and robotics , with particular emphasis on 3D human pose estimation, human-object interaction, and social signal processing. His recent publications demonstrate a clear trend toward leveraging diffusion models for 3D reconstruction and generation tasks, with a focus on human-centric applications. His work bridges the gap between 2D image understanding and 3D scene reconstruction, often utilizing pre-trained models to overcome data limitations. The research consistently addresses fundamental challenges in understanding human behavior, interaction with objects, and social dynamics in 3D space. Dr. Joo is a recipient of several prestigious awards including the Samsung Scholarship and the CVPR Best Student Paper Award in 2018 . His paper "Total Capture: A 3D Deformation Model for Tracking Faces, Hands, and Bodies" received this honor at CVPR 2018. His research has been widely recognized in top computer vision and AI conferences, with multiple oral presentations at venues like CVPR, ICCV, and ECCV. Dr. Joo actively mentors a large group of students, with approximately 15 current students working toward MS/PhD degrees under his supervision. His lab, the SNU VCLab, focuses on cutting-edge research in computer vision and graphics. He has secured significant research funding through his work, though specific grant details aren't provided on his website. Dr. Joo frequently serves as an area chair for major conferences including CVPR, ICCV, and NeurIPS, demonstrating his standing in the academic community. Dr. Joo leads the SNU VCLab, which has developed several notable datasets and tools including SNU ParaHome, FrankMocap, and the CMU Panoptic Studio Dataset. His lab maintains strong industry connections, with students interning at leading companies like Meta. The lab's research focuses on building the infrastructure and algorithms needed for social AI, with an emphasis on practical applications that can be deployed in real-world settings.
Kshitij Sabnis is a Lecturer in Aerospace Engineering at the School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London. He serves as Admissions Lead and Outreach & Recruitment Lead for Aerospace Engineering, and Deputy Director of Industrial Engagement (Graduate Attributes). He is affiliated with the Centre for Intelligent Transport and conducts experimental research in high-speed aerodynamics. Education: PhD in Experimental Aerodynamics, University of Cambridge Master’s in Physics Dr Sabnis's research focuses on experimental aerodynamics across various speed regimes, particularly shock/boundary-layer interactions, vortex dynamics, and supersonic flows. His work involves wind tunnel experiments on simplified models to understand complex fluid mechanics in applications ranging from racecar wings to supersonic aircraft intakes. He employs advanced diagnostics and develops novel experimental setups to enhance physical insight into flow phenomena. His recent publications (2019–2025) reflect a strong emphasis on high-speed flow behavior, including shock-induced separation, vortex interactions, and nacelle aerodynamics. Key themes include flow control, wind tunnel design, and validation of turbulence models. His work bridges fundamental fluid dynamics with practical aerospace engineering challenges. Scientific Awards: FHEA (Fellow of the Higher Education Academy) Dr Sabnis actively supervises PhD students and leads externally funded research projects. He has secured grants from EPSRC and the Royal Society, supporting work on schlieren imaging enhancement and small-scale wind turbines for rural energy. He teaches advanced aerodynamics modules and contributes to curriculum and industrial engagement. He leads a research group focused on experimental high-speed aerodynamics and is involved in developing new diagnostic techniques and test rigs. His team investigates vortex interactions and aerodynamic performance under extreme flow conditions.
Stefan Hallström is an Associate Professor in Lightweight Structures at KTH Royal Institute of Technology's Aeronautical and Vehicle Engineering School, affiliated with the MATERIAL AND STRUCTURAL MECHANICS department. He specializes in composite materials, structural mechanics, and lightweight design, focusing on aerospace and automotive applications. His research explores advanced composites, sandwich structures, and material behavior under various loading conditions. Hallström teaches courses including Lightweight Design (SD2432), Lightweight Structures and FEM (SD2411), and supervises degree projects in Lightweight Structures and Solid Mechanics. He has published extensively on topics like 3D-woven composites, damage tolerance, and mechanical reinforcement strategies, with over 90 peer-reviewed articles. His work emphasizes material characterization, finite element modeling, and practical applications in structural engineering. Key research trends include optimizing composite joint performance using metal inserts, analyzing moisture effects on composite laminates, and developing frameworks for modeling 3D textile architectures. His contributions address challenges in aerospace materials, energy absorption in beams, and improving simulation accuracy for molded composites. Hallström collaborates on projects involving novel instrumented test rigs for polymer composites and advanced manufacturing techniques for structural reliability. His expertise bridges theoretical mechanics with practical engineering solutions, influencing both academic research and industrial applications.
Satoshi Funabashi is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Intermedia Art and Science at Waseda University's School of Fundamental Science and Engineering, Japan. He is affiliated with the Graduate Program for Embodiment Informatics under Waseda University's Program for Leading Graduate Schools and contributes to multiple graduate schools including the Graduate School of Creative Science and Engineering. Education: Doctor of Engineering (Waseda University, 2017-2021) Research Focus: Robotics, tactile sensing, deep learning, and embodiment informatics Academic Appointments: Assistant Professor (non-tenure-track) His research centers on symbiotic robotics and tactile-driven manipulation, with recent publications exploring graph convolutional networks, vision-touch fusion, and morphology-specific deep learning for robotic hands. He has secured multiple competitive research grants including JSPS KAKENHI and JST ACT-I programs. Scientific Awards: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B) (KAKENHI), JSPS (2024-2027) Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists, JSPS (2022-2024) JST ACT-I Research Fellow (2020-2022, 2018-2020) JSPS Research Fellowship DC1 (2017-2020) He collaborates with the Intelligent Dynamics and Representation Lab (Prof. Tetsuya Ogata) and the Intelligent Machine Lab (Prof. Shigeki Sugano) at Waseda University. He has interned at MIT's CSAIL (2018-2019) and conducted research at UC Davis (2015). His work has been cited over 500 times with an h-index of 14 according to Google Scholar.
Dr David Collins serves as the Mike Ashby Associate Professor in Materials Science at the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, and is a core member of the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) focused on advanced aerospace materials. His research spans superalloys , titanium alloys , and high-entropy alloys , with expertise in phase transformations , high-temperature deformation , and microstructural evolution . He pioneers advanced characterization techniques including in-situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction , electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) , and three-dimensional X-ray diffraction (3DXRD) to investigate grain-scale stress interactions and failure mechanisms under extreme conditions. Analysis of his 2023-2025 publications reveals dominant trends in additive manufacturing validation , oxidation/corrosion resistance of superalloys , and grain-resolved mechanical behavior using coupled experimental-computational approaches. His work frequently addresses Rolls-Royce-relevant challenges in jet engine materials, particularly nickel-based superalloy performance under cyclic thermal-mechanical loading. No specific scientific awards for Dr Collins are mentioned in available departmental communications, though the Rolls-Royce UTC recently celebrated prizes for other researchers. Details regarding student supervision and grant funding are not publicly specified, but his position within the EPSRC- and Rolls-Royce-funded UTC indicates active involvement in large-scale collaborative research projects. As part of the Rolls-Royce UTC infrastructure, Dr Collins utilizes specialized facilities including electro-thermal mechanical testing rigs, cyclic oxidation test systems, and synchrotron beamline partnerships for real-time microstructural analysis during deformation and phase transformations.
Barbara Mones is a Teaching Professor in the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering at the University of Washington. She serves as Director of the Reality Studio, part of the Reality Lab, and leads the Facial Expression Research Group (FERG) and the Octopus Research Group (ORG). Education: Undergraduate degree from University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Post graduate certification in Animation from Sheridan College, Oakville, Canada MFA from Rhode Island School of Design Professor Mones specializes in Human-Centered Computing and Interaction with the Physical World, with expertise in Augmented, Virtual & Mixed Reality; Computer Graphics & Animation; and Computing Education Research. Her research focuses on the intersection of animation, storytelling, and immersive technologies, exploring how these can be effectively integrated into educational contexts and creative production pipelines. She has developed specialized curriculum for facial expression in animated characters and immersive storytelling environments. Professor Mones has directed and produced more than twenty animated shorts throughout her career at the University of Washington. Her recent works demonstrate expertise in character animation, facial expression, and digital storytelling, often incorporating innovative techniques in virtual and augmented reality. These films showcase her commitment to advancing both the artistic and technical aspects of computer animation. Scientific Awards: SIGGRAPH 2021 Distinguished Teaching Award NASA Group Achievement Award Professor Mones has been instrumental in developing animation curriculum that has influenced programs worldwide. She serves on the ACM SIGGRAPH Executive Committee and the Education Committee, where she continues to shape computer graphics education globally. Her teaching approach emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning through the complete animation production pipeline. She leads the Reality Studio, which focuses on research and development in immersive storytelling technologies, and oversees the Facial Expression Research Group which investigates the technical and artistic aspects of creating expressive digital characters for animation and virtual environments.
Mario Costa Sousa is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Calgary. He holds a BSc from Catholic University of Petrópolis (1989), an MSc from Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (1994), and a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Alberta (1999). His primary research focuses on computer graphics, scientific visualization, and sketch-based modeling with applications to geoscience and reservoir engineering. He leads the illustrares research group, which develops novel visual computing paradigms for interdisciplinary challenges in science, engineering, and design. Research interests include non-photorealistic rendering, sketch-based interfaces, visualization/visual analytics, and human-data interaction. His work integrates geoscientific data with interactive modeling tools to address reservoir uncertainty and enhance decision-making in energy and environmental domains. Recent projects involve rapid prototyping of subsurface CO2 sequestration models and machine learning for drill core analysis. He teaches courses such as CPSC 591/691 Rendering (Fall 2024), CPSC 319 Data Structures (Winter 2025), and DATA 501 Data Science Capstone (Winter 2025). His research has contributed to energy innovation initiatives at the University of Calgary, focusing on geothermal energy and unconventional reservoirs. Key collaborations include work on Gaussian process-based uncertainty quantification, functional data analysis for production forecasting, and immersive VR tools for surgical training (e.g., NeuroSimVR and JackVR oil rig simulators). His publications span reservoir modeling, geological visualization, and interactive systems for spatial data exploration.
Dr. Katalin KOPECSKÓ is Associate Professor in the Department of Engineering Geology and Geotechnics , Faculty of Civil Engineering, Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) . She lectures on construction-materials chemistry, durability and advanced concrete technologies, and maintains an active research portfolio spanning radioactive-waste solidification, geopolymer binders, supplementary cementitious materials and fibre-reinforced cementitious composites. Education & Academic Career Long-standing faculty member at BME Faculty of Civil Engineering (exact degrees not specified in text). Regular instructor for master-level courses: Alkali Activated Materials in Civil Engineering , Chemistry of Construction Materials , Durability of Construction Materials , Structure–Property Relations of Concrete . Holds weekly consultation hours on Thursdays 12–14 in building K, basement level, room 10/5. Research Focus Her research integrates materials science , geotechnical engineering and nuclear-waste management . Recent investigations include: Development of alkali-activated recipes for borate-rich liquid radioactive waste using limestone-portland blends. Application of semi-adiabatic calorimetry to identify optimal cement types for radioactive waste cementation. Enhancement of 3D-printing performance of concrete via metakaolin and silica fume. Long-term geotechnical and hydraulic impacts of municipal solid-waste leachate on soils. Durability of natural-fibre and nanocellulose-reinforced geopolymer mortars. Corrosion behaviour of vitrified high-level waste glass under simulated repository conditions. Across 2022-2025 she has published more than 40 peer-reviewed articles, reflecting a clear shift toward sustainable construction materials , nuclear environmental safety and advanced testing methodologies . Laboratory & Collaborative Environment Dr. KOPECSKÓ operates within BME’s well-equipped Engineering Geology and Geotechnics laboratories, where calorimetry facilities, geopolymer synthesis rigs and microstructural analysis tools support her projects. Close collaboration exists with the Vásárhelyi Pál Doctoral School and the national nuclear-waste management programme at Paks NPP, evidenced by joint publications on cemented-waste testing laboratories. Grants & Awards While specific grant numbers are not listed, her sustained output in high-impact journals and participation in national projects (e.g., NVKP_16-1-2016-0019 “Increasing the Chemical Resistance of Concrete”) indicate continuous external funding. Contact Office: Building K, basement, room 10/5, Budapest University of Technology and Economics. E-mail: kopecsko.katalin@emk.bme.hu Phone: +36 1 463 2238
Sheldon Andrews is an Associate Professor of Software Engineering and IT at École de technologie supérieure (ETS) in Montreal, Canada, with an adjunct appointment in Computer Science at McGill University. He is a member of the Multimedia Research Laboratory and has established himself as a leading researcher in physics-based computer animation and simulation. Andrews earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science from McGill University (2015), MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Ottawa (2007), and B.Eng. in Computer Engineering from Memorial University (2004). His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of computer engineering and graphics. His research focuses on real-time physics simulation, articulated mechanism simulation, 3D character animation, motion capture, computational contact mechanics, and virtual environment modeling. Andrews' work bridges the gap between theoretical physics and practical applications in computer graphics, with particular emphasis on creating physically plausible animations that can run in real-time. His research has significant implications for video games, virtual reality, and robotics applications. Analysis of his recent publications (2022-2025) reveals a strong trend toward increasingly sophisticated physics-based character animation techniques, with growing integration of machine learning approaches. His work spans multiple subfields including collision detection, deformable object simulation, vehicle physics, and reinforcement learning for character control, demonstrating both breadth and depth in his research program. VRIPHYS 2012 best paper award for 'Policies for goal directed multi-finger manipulation' Andrews has advised numerous graduate students through their PhD and Master's degrees, with many going on to positions at major companies like DNEG, CM Labs Simulations, and AMD. His professional service is extensive, having served as Program Chair for SCA 2025 and MIG 2024, Conference Chair for I3D 2019, and on program committees for major conferences including SIGGRAPH, SCA, and MIG for multiple years. He has also been active in the Montreal SIGGRAPH Chapter as Secretary from 2018-2021. As a core member of the Multimedia Research Laboratory, Andrews collaborates with researchers across multiple disciplines to advance the state of the art in physics-based simulation. His lab maintains strong industry connections, including a visiting researcher position at Roblox Research, ensuring that theoretical advances translate to practical applications in gaming and virtual environments.
Ken Nakagaki is an Assistant Professor in the Computer Science Department at the University of Chicago and founder of the Actuated Experience Lab (AxLab). He specializes in designing novel actuated tangible user interfaces (A-TUIs) that merge physical materials with computational and robotic systems to create interactive, shape-changing experiences. His work emphasizes seamless integration of dynamic digital information into physical tools and materials. Education: Ph.D. in Media Arts and Sciences from MIT Media Lab (advisor: Hiroshi Ishii) Research Focus: Actuated Tangible User Interfaces (A-TUIs) Shape-changing and reconfigurable technologies Embodied interaction and haptic feedback systems His research bridges robotics, design, and human-computer interaction, driven by curiosity-based prototyping. Awards & Recognition: MIT Technology Review's Innovators Under 35 (Japan & Asia Pacific) Japan Media Arts Festival awards James Dyson Award finalist Fast Company Innovation by Design Awards Labs & Collaborations: AxLab explores actuated interfaces and shape-changing systems to reimagine human-computer interaction in physical spaces.
Professor Alfredo Castello is a Professor in Systems Virology at the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research within the Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation at the University of Glasgow's College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences. With an active research program and numerous recent publications, he leads the Castello Lab which focuses on understanding RNA-binding proteins in virus infection. Castello's research interests center around the critical role of cellular RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) in viral infections. His work reveals how viruses exploit host RBPs for replication while cells utilize RBPs as part of their antiviral defense. His lab employs innovative approaches to discover cellular proteins that interact with viral RNA during infection, combining cell and molecular biology, RNA biology, virology, and 'omic' technologies to understand host-virus interactions at a systems level. Analysis of Castello's recent publications shows a strong focus on RNA-protein interactions in viral infections across multiple viral systems including alphaviruses, HIV-1, SARS-CoV-2, and other RNA viruses. His work spans from fundamental RNA biology to translational applications, with particular emphasis on identifying host factors that could serve as targets for broad-spectrum antivirals. ERC consolidator Grant: Towards the discovery of cellular RNA-binding proteins with master regulatory roles in virus infection (2021-2026) MRC Career Development Award: Proteome-Wide Identification of RNA-Binding Proteins Playing Critical Roles in Virus Infection (2021-2022) Marie Curie postdoctoral fellowship: Structural basis of TRIM25 and RIPLET mediated antiviral response (2023) Castello actively supervises multiple PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in the Castello Lab, including Rozeena Arif, Namah Raut, Innes Jarmson, and others. His research group receives substantial funding through multiple grants including RBP-ReguNet (2023-2027) and Understanding the Roles of Cellular RNA-Binding Proteins in HIV-1 Infection (2023). The lab maintains active collaborations both within the University of Glasgow and with external institutions worldwide. The Castello Lab operates as a multidisciplinary research unit combining expertise in molecular virology, cellular biology, RNA biology, and computational approaches. The group has developed innovative methods for identifying RNA-binding proteins in cells, representing significant breakthroughs in understanding protein-RNA interactions during viral infection.
Jon Macey is a Senior Lecturer in Computer Animation at Bournemouth University . His work focuses on technical and artistic aspects of animation, particularly character modeling and deformation techniques. Research interests include: Facial deformation transfer Character skinning 3D modeling Real-time animation algorithms His publications highlight collaborations with international researchers in computational symmetry and animation production workflows. Notable works include: 2020: Fully automatic facial deformation transfer 2007: Production friendly character skinning Contact: jmacey@bournemouth.ac.uk (Weymouth House W235, Talbot Campus, Poole, BH12 5BB).
Xue Hang is a Lecturer in the Animation Department at Tongji University's School of Art and Media, where he has been teaching since 2002. He holds a Master of Science degree in Optics from Fudan University (1993) and has expanded his expertise through international exchanges at Hungary's Academy of Art and Design (1998-1999) and Germany's Bauhaus University (2010). His multidisciplinary career spans physics, visual design, and new media arts. Research interests include: Film and television animation Creative photography Art history Visual aesthetics in digital media Key research projects involve: Teaching reform for high-definition film/TV development Multimedia documentation of historical narratives (e.g., 'Jinggangshan' music-dance epic) Cultural value preservation through modern creative industries Scientific awards highlight: 2021 Special Prize in Chinese Poetry Competition Multiple teaching excellence awards (2008-2014) 1996 Li Guohao Young Faculty Award 2009 Shanghai Teaching Achievement Award (Team member) His 15 most recent publications demonstrate expertise in multimedia production, cultural adaptation, and digital art education, with projects spanning both theoretical and practical domains of new media arts. Notable collaborations include international academic exchanges with Germany and Hungary.
Johannes Schneider is a researcher at the University of Bonn, affiliated with the Institute of Geodesy and Geoinformation's Department of Photogrammetry. His role includes scientific research and academic contributions in the field of computer vision and robotics. He holds a Master's degree in Geodesy and Geoinformation from the University of Bonn (2011) and has been a PhD student since 2012, supervised by Wolfgang Förstner, focusing on visual SLAM and multi-camera systems. His research interests span bundle adjustment, visual odometry, multi-camera systems, and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) applications. He actively contributes to the 'Mapping on Demand' project (funded by DFG) and has developed software tools like BACS (Bundle Adjustment for Camera Systems). Teaching responsibilities include lectures on '3D Coordinate Systems' and project supervision for master students. Notable achievements include the Karl Kraus Young Scientist Award (2013). His work emphasizes real-time navigation, obstacle detection, and precise 3D reconstruction using UAVs, integrating sensors like RTK-GPS, IMUs, and fisheye cameras. Recent publications highlight advancements in dense stereo matching, SLAM algorithms, and system calibration.
