Carson Slabaugh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics and holds a courtesy appointment in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University. His research focuses on advanced propulsion systems, particularly combustion dynamics in rotating detonation engines (RDEs), rocket combustors, and ramjet configurations. He leads studies on high-pressure flames, laser diagnostics, and fuel injection mechanisms. Key research areas include detonation wave propagation, pressure gain combustion, and the application of advanced optical diagnostics (e.g., CARS, PLIF) to study transient phenomena in extreme environments. His work addresses challenges in next-generation propulsion systems, including hydrogen-blend fuels, methane-oxygen rocket ignition, and solid-fuel ramjet performance. Recent studies emphasize geometric optimization of RDEs, fuel injection dynamics under detonation conditions, and the impact of flow parameters on combustion stability. Collaborations involve experimental validation with high-speed imaging and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to bridge theoretical predictions with real-world performance. Slabaugh’s laboratory develops novel diagnostic tools for megahertz-rate imaging of mixing and combustion processes, advancing understanding of transient flame structures and instability mechanisms. His contributions aim to improve efficiency and operability of propulsion systems for aerospace and terrestrial applications.
Timothy K. Minton is a Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a member of the Aerospace Mechanics Research Center (AMREC). He holds a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley (1986) and a BS from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (1980). His research focuses on gas-phase and gas-surface reaction dynamics, particularly in hypersonic flow environments and space material degradation. He has held editorial roles at The Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets and The Journal of Physical Chemistry , and has been recognized with prestigious awards including Fellowships from the American Physical Society (2015) and American Association for the Advancement of Science (2012). Dr. Minton’s work emphasizes understanding atomic oxygen interactions with satellite materials, shock layer chemistry, and material durability in low-Earth-orbit environments. His innovations include the development of the Table-Top Shock Tunnel (TTST) for rapid material testing and durable coatings for space applications. He has also contributed to advancing models for carbon oxidation and nitridation processes. His awards highlight leadership in aerospace and chemistry, including the NASA Monetary Award (1995) for semiconductor etching innovations and the Charles & Nora Wiley Award (2002) for meritorious research. He maintains a courtesy appointment in the Department of Chemistry at CU Boulder and actively collaborates with industry (e.g., Skeyeon, Inc.) and international institutions.
Tina Shoa is an Associate Professor in the School of Sustainable Energy Engineering at Simon Fraser University. She holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of British Columbia (2010), an M.Sc. from the University of Manitoba (2004), and a B.Sc. from Iran University of Science and Technology (2000). Her research focuses on battery performance modeling, electrochemical methods for fault detection, sustainable battery manufacturing, and AI-based diagnostics. Education: Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2010 M.Sc., Electrical Engineering, University of Manitoba, 2004 B.Sc., Electrical Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, 2000 Research Interests: Battery performance modeling, analysis, and optimization Electrochemical and ultrasound-based battery fault detection Sustainable battery manufacturing processes AI-driven battery diagnostics Teaching and Courses: Advanced Battery and Fuel Cell Technologies Power Plant Systems Smart Grids Practicum SEE 354 D100 Energy Storage (Summer 2025) Patents: Battery State-of-health Determination upon charging (US Patent 11079437B2, 2022) Battery State-of-health Determination using multi-factor normalization (US Patent 10,302,709, 2019) Apparatus and Method for testing electrochemical systems (US Provisional Patent 62/994687, 2020) Key Contributions: Her work integrates electrochemical principles and AI to advance battery diagnostics and sustainable energy storage solutions. She has authored over 15 publications in top-tier journals and conferences, addressing battery aging, state estimation, and novel manufacturing techniques.
Naomi J. Halas is a University Professor at Rice University, holding appointments in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, and Physics & Astronomy. She is the Stanley C. Moore Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering and serves as Director of both the Smalley-Curl Institute and the Laboratory for Nanophotonics. As a University Professor, she holds Rice's highest faculty rank, a distinction awarded to only 10 individuals (and only the second woman) in Rice's 111-year history. Halas is a pioneering researcher in the field of plasmonics, having created the concept of the "tunable plasmon" and invented a family of nanoparticles with resonances spanning the visible and infrared regions of the spectrum. Her research spans fundamental studies of coupled plasmonic systems as well as applications in biomedicine, optoelectronics, machine learning-enabled chemical sensing of environmental toxins, and plasmon-based photocatalysis. She is the author of more than 400 refereed publications, has over 30 issued patents, has presented more than 600 invited talks, and has been cited more than 130,000 times. Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on practical applications of plasmonics, particularly in water purification, environmental toxin detection, and cancer treatment. Her work combines nanotechnology with machine learning approaches to create innovative solutions for pressing global challenges in healthcare, environmental sustainability, and energy. The interdisciplinary nature of her research is reflected in publications spanning journals from Nature Water and PNAS to ACS Catalysis. Benjamin Franklin Medal in Chemistry (2025) - For the creation and development of nanoshells for biomedical and chemical applications Mildred Dresselhaus Prize in Nanoscience and Nanomaterials (2024) American Physical Society Frank Isakson Prize for Optical Effects in Solids Willis E. Lamb Award Wood Prize of Optica National Security Science and Engineering Faculty Fellow (Vannevar Bush Fellow) of the U.S. Department of Defense Halas has co-founded two companies based on her research: Nanospectra Biosciences, developing photothermal therapies for prostate cancer (nearing FDA approval), and Syzygy Plasmonics, a deep decarbonization platform. She has advised numerous students who have gone on to successful careers in academia and industry. Her research has been supported by significant grants from NSF, DoD, and other funding agencies. She serves as an advisor to the Mathematical and Physical Sciences Directorate of the National Science Foundation. Halas leads the Laboratory for Nanophotonics at Rice University, where her team focuses on designing new optically active nanostructures, developing nanofabrication strategies, characterizing physical properties of these materials, and prototyping applications of technological and societal interest. Her group is dedicated to producing PhD research scientists with expanded skill sets who can develop solutions beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Prof. Dr. Romain Quidant is a Full Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zürich, where he also serves as Head of the Institute for Energy and Process Engineering. His research focuses on nanophotonics, optomechanics, and plasmonics with applications in quantum optics, biomedical engineering, and thermal control systems. He leads a multidisciplinary team exploring light-matter interactions at the nanoscale, particularly in levitated nanoparticles and plasmonic therapies. Key research interests include quantum optomechanical systems, plasmonic nanothermometry, and targeted photothermal therapies. His work bridges fundamental physics with practical applications such as precision measurement, medical imaging, and energy-efficient materials. Recent studies highlight advancements in optical trapping techniques, thermal wavefront shaping, and robotic surgery guidance using fluorescent nanothermometry. Prof. Quidant’s publications showcase innovations in reconfigurable meta-surfaces, optofluidic platforms for high-throughput analysis, and adaptive thermal microscopy for brain imaging. His lab develops integrated systems for medical diagnostics, environmental sensing, and quantum-enabled technologies. These efforts have been applied to cancer treatment optimization and novel materials for energy systems.
Dr. Chris Gray is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine and a practicing cardiologist within the Division of Cardiology at Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine. He is based at the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where he provides clinical care and leads educational initiatives in cardiology and electrophysiology. His primary research interests include: Cardiac electrophysiology and arrhythmia management Atrial and ventricular fibrillation Catheter ablation techniques Inherited heart diseases Medical education and training program development Cardiac implanted electronic devices Dr. Gray's scholarly work focuses on advancing electrophysiology practices, improving training frameworks for cardiology fellows, and evaluating clinical outcomes in arrhythmia interventions. His recent publications highlight innovations in ablation technology, diagnostic pacing maneuvers, and population-level benefits of preventive device therapy. His contributions to medical education have been widely recognized through awards and leadership roles: Director of Education, Department of Medicine (2014–present) Assistant Program Director, Cardiology Residency Training Organizer of the Annual Cardiology Residents Pacemaker Course Recipient of the Cardiology Residents Teaching Award (2012) and Pfizer Award of Excellence (2007) He is actively involved in teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including PIER 4 lectures, ECG rounds, simulation training, and bedside teaching in the EP lab and intensive care units. He also serves as Secretary of the Canadian Heart Rhythm Society Executive. His laboratory and clinical team focus on arrhythmia assessment, electrophysiology procedures, and resident education, contributing to both patient care and academic advancement in cardiac rhythm disorders.
Ricardo Zednik is a Professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, École de Technologie Supérieure (ÉTS) in Montreal. Holding degrees from Rice University (BA, BS) and Stanford University (MS, PhD), he specializes in piezoelectric materials, fracture mechanics, and microelectronic systems. His research focuses on sensors, innovative materials, and health technologies. Fields of Interest: Piezoelectricity, Fracture Mechanics, MEMS, Smart Materials, Crystallography With over 36 peer-reviewed publications and extensive supervision of graduate research (including 15+ co-directed theses and projects since 2016), Zednik contributes to applied research in materials science and biomedical engineering. He collaborates with LaCIME and PULÉTS laboratories on cutting-edge projects involving ultrasonic transducers, flexible sensors, and high-temperature material characterization. Current courses include Materials Technology (MEC200) and advanced research topics in Functional and Smart Materials (SYS877). His students explore applications like terahertz quality control, piezoelectric earcanal sensors, and Kirigami techniques for wearable electronics.
Vincent Rotello is a University Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He holds multiple affiliations including Faculty in the Graduate Program in Molecular & Cellular Biology, the Center for Bioactive Delivery, the Models to Medicine program, the Center for Personalized Health Monitoring, and the Materials Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Graduate Program at the Institute for Applied Life Sciences. Dr. Rotello received his B.S. in Chemistry (Honors) from Illinois Institute of Technology in 1985, followed by an M. Phil and Ph.D. in Chemistry from Yale University in 1987 and 1990, respectively. He completed an NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology from 1990-1993 before joining the faculty at UMass Amherst. Professor Rotello's research focuses on supramolecular chemistry, particularly the study and application of non-covalent interactions including hydrogen bonding and aromatic stacking. His work spans nanotechnology, bionanotechnology, bioorthogonal chemistry, drug delivery, and antimicrobial development. His laboratory explores how these molecular recognition concepts can address essential questions in biology, biomedicine, and material chemistry, with particular emphasis on using synthetic organic chemistry to engineer interfaces between synthetic and biological worlds. The group has published over 650 peer-reviewed papers to date. His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward bioorthogonal catalysis, particularly 'nanozymes' and 'polyzymes' - nanomaterial scaffolds incorporating transition metal catalysts for localized drug and imaging agent generation. His research increasingly addresses biomedical applications including cancer treatment, bacterial infection control, and diagnostic development, with significant focus on antimicrobial applications and biofilm eradication. Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award (2023) Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate (2014, 2015, 2018-2023) Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (UK) NSF CAREER award Cottrell Scholar award Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Sloan Fellowship Professor Rotello has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, with recent PhD graduates including Dr. Aarohi Gupta and Dr. Aritra Nath Chattopadhyay. His research group maintains active collaborations across multiple disciplines and has secured significant funding for their work in nanotechnology and bionanotechnology. The group has published over 650 peer-reviewed papers, demonstrating consistent productivity and impact in their field. The Rotello Lab operates within the Lederle Graduate Research Tower at UMass Amherst, with office in room 379 and laboratory space in room 320. The group consists of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and visiting scholars from around the world, working collaboratively on projects spanning antimicrobials, bioorthogonal chemistry, drug delivery, and sensing technologies. The lab has documented numerous visiting scholars from institutions across Europe, Asia, and North America, indicating strong international collaborations.
David C. Shonka, Jr., MD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Virginia (UVA). He is a fellowship-trained head and neck endocrine and oncologic surgeon specializing in thyroid cancer, parathyroid surgery, and complex head and neck malignancies. Primary Education: University of Virginia School of Medicine Residency: University of Virginia School of Medicine Fellowship: University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine His research focuses on: Thyroid and parathyroid disorders Quality metrics in endocrine surgery Transoral robotic surgery outcomes Cancer tumor biomarkers Medical imaging modalities Recent publications analyze ablation technologies, mutational testing, and imaging innovations for thyroid and parathyroid conditions. Scientific awards include the 2019 Best Bedside Manner Award and inclusion in the Best Doctors in America® List (2017-2020). He actively mentors medical students and residents in clinical research and serves on national endocrine surgery committees. American Head and Neck Society American Thyroid Association American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery American College of Surgeons Dr. Shonka provides interdisciplinary care with endocrinologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. He offers office-based diagnostics like ultrasound and needle biopsies while performing high-complexity surgeries post-radiation or prior surgery.
Azhar Zam is an Associate Professor of Bioengineering at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) and associated faculty at NYU Tandon School of Engineering's Biomedical and Electrical Engineering departments. He holds a B.Sc. from University of Indonesia, M.Sc. from University of Luebeck (Germany), and Ph.D. from Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (Germany). His research focuses on developing smart optical devices for medical imaging/diagnostics, including laser surgery, OCT, photoacoustics, and AI-driven imaging systems. He leads the Laboratory for Advanced Bio-Photonics and Imaging (LAB-π) at NYUAD and has authored 85+ publications/patents. Education: Bachelor of Science, University of Indonesia M.Sc. Biomedical Engineering, University of Luebeck Ph.D. Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg Research Interests: Innovations in biomedical optics, optical-based smart sensors, AI-enhanced diagnostics, and miniaturized medical imaging systems. His work integrates advanced optical technologies with surgical robotics and clinical applications. Professional Contributions: Associate Editor for Frontiers in Photonics Biophotonics section; Reviews Editor for Frontiers in Ophthalmology Retina section. Previously held positions at University of Basel (Assistant Professor), University of Waterloo, and other institutions globally. Labs & Teams: Directs NYUAD's LAB-π lab focusing on bio-photonics innovations. Collaborates across NYU's global network and international partners.
Sergio Barbero is an Associate Researcher at the Visual Optics laboratory of the Instituto de Óptica (CSIC), Spain, under the supervision of Prof. Susana Marcos. He holds a BSc in Physics from the University of Zaragoza (1999) and a PhD in Visual Sciences from the University of Valladolid (2004), which earned him the Doctoral Thesis Extraordinary Award (2005). His research focuses on optical aberrations, intraocular lens design, wavefront measurement techniques, and gradient-index modeling of ocular structures. Barbero has collaborated with international groups at Indiana University (USA), University of Houston (USA), and Australian institutions. His work includes pioneering studies on crystalline lens tomography, corneal ablation algorithms, and novel wavefront sensing methods. He has authored 16 peer-reviewed publications and contributed to a US patent on wavefront reconstruction techniques. His research spans three core areas: (1) intraocular lens design using analytical tools, (2) gradient-index modeling of the human eye, and (3) in vivo measurement of crystalline lens aberrations. He has secured grants from the Spanish government (I3P-CSIC), NIH (USA), and Fulbright fellowships. Barbero has presented 33 scientific talks/posters, including invited lectures, and maintains an h-index of 9. His work bridges fundamental optics with clinical applications in ophthalmology.
Joseph Talghader is the Cymer Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Minnesota, where he has been a faculty member since 1997, progressing from Assistant to Full Professor. He leads the Optical Micro+Nanosystems Group and holds appointments in the College of Engineering. Dr. Talghader's educational background includes a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rice University, followed by an M.S. (1993) and Ph.D. (1995) from UC Berkeley, where he was awarded an NSF Graduate Fellowship. Prior to joining academia, he worked at Texas Instruments and Waferscale Integration in process development and memory design. His research spans optics and micro/nano-mechanical systems with particular focus on infrared detectors, optical coatings, heat transfer mechanisms, and microsensors. His group has developed groundbreaking technologies including the highest sensitivity uncooled thermal detectors and the first tunable multispectral thermal detectors. Recent work has expanded into applications for glacial ice analysis and high-power laser systems. His research integrates theoretical modeling with advanced fabrication techniques, particularly atomic layer deposition. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent focus on infrared technologies, optical coatings, and thermal phenomena. His work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections between electrical engineering, materials science, and optical physics, with increasing emphasis on practical applications in environmental sensing and high-power laser systems. Among his notable recognitions are three 3M Faculty Awards and being a Finalist for the Minnesota Cup for entrepreneurs. He has served on various program committees including the Army Research Office Electronics Division strategic planning panel and has chaired multiple IEEE conferences. Dr. Talghader actively mentors students and postdocs, with numerous publications listing junior researchers as lead authors. His group has secured significant research funding, though specific grant details aren't provided in the source material. He currently serves as an Editor for the NPG journal Light: Science and Applications, demonstrating his standing in the optics research community. The Optical Micro+Nanosystems Group maintains strong industry and interdisciplinary collaborations, with research spanning from fundamental materials properties to practical device implementation. Current projects focus on improving infrared detection technologies, developing advanced optical coatings for high-power applications, and exploring novel sensing mechanisms for extreme environments.
Jason Lee is an Associate Professor-in-Residence and Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Connecticut. He joined UConn in 2014 after completing a postdoc at MIT's Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies. His education includes a B.S. from UC Berkeley (2005), and M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin (2007 and 2010). His research focuses on computational heat transfer in manufacturing processes and characterization of polymer nanocomposites for aerospace and sports applications. His work emphasizes ablative materials, thermal protection systems, and advanced manufacturing techniques. Lee has explored novel nanocomposite formulations using clays, carbon nanofibers, and nano-alumina additives. He has published extensively on material properties of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer nanocomposites, including studies on flame retardancy, mechanical performance under high temperatures, and thermal degradation kinetics. His research also addresses applications in solid rocket motor insulation and high-strength materials for aerospace systems. Lee has served as Director of Undergraduate Studies for Mechanical Engineering (2014–2019) and emphasizes diverse teaching methods, including hybrid and online formats. His work bridges fundamental material science with practical engineering challenges in manufacturing and aerospace.
Prof. Vlado A. Lubarda holds dual roles at the University of California, San Diego: Full Professor of Teaching in the Department of Chemical and Nano Engineering and Adjunct Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. He is a Faculty Fellow of Revelle College and a Research Affiliate at the Center for Memory and Recording Research. Lubarda's academic journey includes degrees from the University of Montenegro (Dipl. Ing., 1975) and Stanford University (M.S. and Ph.D., 1977–1979). His research spans elasticity, plasticity, biomechanics, and nanomechanics, with over 130 journal publications and five authored books. Notable awards include the Barbara and Paul Saltman Distinguished Teaching Award and multiple Tau Beta Pi Outstanding Teacher Awards. He has advised numerous graduate and undergraduate students, contributing to advancements in materials science and mechanics. Affiliations: Full Professor of Teaching, Department of Chemical and Nano Engineering Adjunct Professor, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Fellow of Revelle College Research Affiliate, CMRR Education: Bachelor of Engineering, University of Montenegro (1975) M.S. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University (1977–1979) Research Interests: Elasticity, plasticity, viscoelasticity, dislocation mechanics, damage mechanics, and biomechanics. Key Contributions: Author of Strength of Materials , Elastoplasticity Theory , and other seminal texts. Editorial board member of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics and Mathematics and Mechanics of Solids . His research articles explore topics like dislocation dynamics, material fracture mechanics, and biomedical applications. Lubarda’s awards reflect his dedication to teaching and research excellence. He collaborates with institutions globally and actively contributes to academic governance through roles such as Chair of the NanoEngineering Undergraduate Affairs Committee.
Patricia Loftus is an Associate Professor in the Rhinology & Skull Base Surgery division at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) , specializing in nasal and sinus disorders. She obtained her medical degree from Jefferson Medical College and completed residency/fellowship training at Montefiore Medical Center and Emory University Hospital. Medical School: Jefferson Medical College of the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital Internship & Residency: Albert Einstein College of Medicine-Montefiore Medical Center Fellowship: Emory University Hospital - Rhinology & Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery Dr. Loftus focuses on Eustachian tube dysfunction in allergic contexts, fungal sinusitis , and hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) . Her clinical expertise spans nasal and sinus surgery , endoscopic skull base surgery , and management of cerebrospinal fluid leaks . Recent research highlights include studies on in-office diagnostic techniques for eosinophilic rhinosinusitis, transcutaneous antifungal delivery for orbital fungal sinusitis, and long-term outcomes of posterior nasal nerve ablation for rhinitis. She has contributed to international consensus guidelines on allergic rhinitis. Professional memberships include the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery , American Rhinologic Society , and North American Skull Base Society .
