Prof. Dr. Sebastian Schlücker is a full professor in the Department of Physical Chemistry at the University of Duisburg-Essen , where he leads the Molecular Biophotonics and Nanodiagnostics research group within the Faculty of Chemistry. He is actively engaged in research, teaching, and academic leadership, with a strong focus on advanced spectroscopic techniques for biomedical and analytical applications. His research interests lie at the intersection of nanophotonics, plasmonics, and bioanalytical chemistry . Key areas include surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) , single-particle spectroscopy , laser diagnostics , and the design of functionalized metal colloids for biosensing and tumor diagnostics. He emphasizes a theory-guided approach combining simulation and experiment to tailor nanoparticle properties. His recent publications (2023–2025) reflect a strong trend toward quantitative, label-free molecular diagnostics , point-of-care testing , and in situ monitoring of catalytic and biological processes . The work spans fundamental plasmonics to clinical applications, particularly in cancer detection and immunoassays using SERS nanotags. International Raman Innovation Prize He mentors students and researchers, supervises theses, and collaborates widely across disciplines. His group develops advanced instrumentation, including portable SERS readers , fs-laser laboratories , and automated nanoparticle synthesis systems (e.g., BONAPARTE robot). He teaches master’s courses such as NanoBioPhotonics and Optical Spectroscopy , and is involved in STEM outreach.
Suresh Venkatesh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at North Carolina State University. He previously served as a postdoctoral research associate at Princeton University (2018–2022) and earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Utah in 2017. His academic journey also includes a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering from NC State in 2010. Education: Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, University of Utah, 2017 Master's in Electrical Engineering, North Carolina State University, 2010 Research Interests: His work focuses on metamaterials and surfaces at GHz-THz frequencies, millimeter-wave phased arrays, and innovative applications in 5G/6G communication systems. Key areas include antenna design, physical layer security, advanced electromagnetic simulations, and reconfigurable systems using CMOS integration. He explores origami-based platforms for adaptive RF imaging and employs spatio-temporal modulation techniques to enhance wireless security and efficiency. Publications Trends: Recent work emphasizes mmWave and THz communication, with a focus on reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, secure low-latency links, and CMOS-based designs for direct detection receivers and cytometers. His research bridges theoretical concepts with experimental validation, particularly in wavefront manipulation and sparse imaging techniques. Awards and Honors: Mistletoe Research Fellowship (2021) Advising and Grants: Venkatesh contributes to research teams like the NC State 6GNC initiative, which spans 6G technologies. He actively organizes conferences such as the World Microwave Congress 2024 as TPC Co-Chair and participates in IEEE technical committees. His grants and collaborations drive advancements in metamaterials, secure wireless systems, and CMOS-integrated solutions. Labs and Teams: He leads efforts in the NC State ECE Department, focusing on labs involving reconfigurable antennas, computational imaging, and integrated systems. His work intersects with the 6GNC team to develop future communication technologies and secure mmWave/THz systems.
Dr. Helena Verrill is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Mathematics, University of Warwick, focusing on teaching and outreach. Her research interests span Number Theory, Algebraic Geometry, Combinatorial Game Theory, and the Mathematics of Origami, with applications in generative art. She actively mentors students through third-year essays, research projects, and outreach initiatives like the Royal Institute Masterclasses. Her research explores modular forms, computational algebra, and arithmetic geometry, with notable contributions to ℓ-adic representations and noncongruence cuspforms. She bridges pure mathematics with artistic expression through origami tessellations and fractal patterns. Notable works include studies on Fano plane automorphisms and Harter-Heighway dragon curves. Her publications span journals like the *Proceedings of the American Mathematical Society* and *Journal of Number Theory*, alongside creative outputs in *Generative Art* and *Bridges Conferences*. She maintains a personal homepage with resources for mathematical art and education.
Ana Cannas da Silva is a Lecturer in the Department of Mathematics at ETH Zurich (Switzerland). She specializes in Symplectic Geometry , Geometric Topology , and Geometric Analysis . Her academic work includes research on symplectic toric manifolds, folded symplectic structures, and geometric quantization, with notable publications in journals like Pure and Applied Mathematics Quarterly and Mathematical Research Letters . Research Interests Symplectic Geometry Geometric Topology Geometric Analysis Hamiltonian Group Actions Toric Manifolds Recent Academic Activities Co-organized Symplectic Geometry Seminar (2021-2023) Supervised student theses on topics like contact toric manifolds, Hamiltonian actions, and symplectic linear algebra Authored research on Dedekind sums via Atiyah-Bott-Lefschetz theory (2023) and symplectic origami (2011) Teaching Lecturer for Mathematics I (2024), covering differential calculus and linear algebra Lecturer for Mathematics II (2024), focusing on multivariable calculus and partial differential equations Co-taught seminars on symplectic/contact geometry with Bahar Acu Academic Contributions Advised 20+ MSc/BSc theses at ETH Zurich since 2012 Co-organized conferences like D-Days (2013) and LP-60 (2023) Authored outreach book: Step by Step Symmetry (2016)
Ana Figueroa serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Education at The University of Tampa, teaching Foundations of American Education and Human Exceptionalities courses. Her academic journey bridges extensive K-12 experience with current scholarly work focused on teacher development. Her educational background includes: 2007: B.S. in Elementary Education, University of Central Florida 2014: Master of Education, University of South Florida 2022: Ed.D., University of the Cumberlands Dr. Figueroa's research centers on teacher mindset dynamics, specifically the relationship between evaluative performance perceptions and learning effort. Her dissertation revealed a critical dichotomy: K-12 teachers maintain fixed mindsets regarding performance evaluation but demonstrate growth mindsets in learning contexts. This insight drives her development of targeted professional learning frameworks that enhance self-efficacy through differentiated strategies and structured self-reflection. Her honors include: Marzano High Reliability Teacher Certification (2018) High Impact Teacher (2015) Polk County Charter School Teacher of the Year (2015) Polk County Teacher of the Year (2012) CEC Outstanding Achievement nomination (2005) Through UT's Teacher Education Advisory Council, she connects academic training with classroom practice. Her community engagement spans dePaul School of Dyslexia partnerships, ESOL/ESE student tutoring, after-school origami programs, and middle school basketball coaching - all informing her research on practical teacher development. While not leading a formal research lab, Dr. Figueroa actively disseminates findings through conference presentations (ICPEL 2023, University of the Cumberlands 2022) and co-authored publications. Her current work focuses on translating mindset research into preservice training and teacher retention initiatives.
Erik Demaine is a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT, affiliated with the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), the Theory of Computation group, and the Algorithms Group. His research spans algorithms, computational geometry, folding, robotics, complexity theory, and interdisciplinary connections between mathematics and art. He received the MacArthur Fellowship ("genius grant") for his work on folding and computation. Demaine's work includes co-authoring books such as Geometric Folding Algorithms and Games, Puzzles, and Computation . His art collaborations with his father Martin Demaine, including curved-crease sculptures, are in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Renwick Gallery. He is also involved in software projects like Coauthor and Cocreate, supporting collaborative research and education. His research interests include folding and unfolding of geometric structures, computational complexity of games, protein folding, and algorithm design. He has contributed to areas like data structures, robotics, and network computing, with a focus on bridging theoretical computer science and tangible applications. Demaine holds patents and has been recognized with numerous awards, including the NSERC Doctoral Prize and the Gödel Prize. His work often involves supercollaboration, emphasizing open problem-solving and interdisciplinary approaches.
Prof. Amir A. Zadpoor holds dual roles as Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Professor at TU Delft (Department of Biomechanical Engineering) and Professor of Orthopedics at Leiden University Medical Center. He leads the Additive Manufacturing Lab and specializes in biomaterials, tissue biomechanics, and orthopedic implants. His research focuses on 3D/4D printing, meta-biomaterials, and biodegradable metals for clinical applications. Key research interests include: designing function-tailored implants, antimicrobial biofunctionalized materials, and mechanically adaptive meta-implants. He has pioneered projects like 'Metallic clay' and 'Mechanobiology in-silico,' with applications in orthopedics and regenerative medicine. Notable awards include ERC grants, Vidi/Veni awards, and the Jean Leray Award. His lab develops deployable implants, self-folding origami lattices, and smart meta-implants. Ancillary roles include editorial positions at Springer Nature and directorships at Sylvanity/Zagres. Teaching includes courses on biomaterials, regenerative medicine, and computational biomechanics. Research outputs span over 150 peer-reviewed articles. Current priorities include sustainable biomaterials, AI-driven design optimization, and translating additive manufacturing innovations into clinical practice.
Professor JC Ji is a distinguished academic at the School of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), where he was promoted to Professor on January 3, 2025, after serving as an Associate Professor since January 1, 2016. He serves as the Theme Research Director at the Centre for Audio, Acoustics and Vibration (CAAV) at UTS and is an active member of the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology. Professor Ji holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Australia and a Graduate Certificate from UTS, along with CPEng NER certification from Engineers Australia since 2018. Professor Ji's research spans multiple interdisciplinary areas with significant practical applications. His primary research interests include Dynamics, Vibration and Vibration Control (focusing on wind turbine dynamics, rotor-bearing systems, and vibration isolation); Machine Condition Monitoring and Asset Management (specializing in fault diagnostics, prognostics, and digital twin-based modeling); Renewable Energy and Sustainability (particularly in vibration-based energy harvesting and battery circular economy); Mechanical and Vehicle Systems; Robotic and Multi-Agent Systems; and Ecological Systems. His work demonstrates a strong integration of theoretical foundations with practical engineering solutions for real-world problems. Analysis of Professor Ji's recent publications reveals a clear research trajectory focused on advanced vibration control systems, condition monitoring techniques, and digital twin applications. His work increasingly integrates machine learning with traditional mechanical engineering approaches, particularly in bearing and gear health management. A significant portion of his recent research focuses on quasi-zero stiffness vibration isolators using innovative structural designs including origami-inspired mechanisms. His publications show strong international impact with numerous high-citation articles in top mechanical engineering journals. Stanford University's World's Top 2% Scientists List for both career-long impact and single-calendar year impact in 2023 and 2024 CPEng NER Chartered Engineers certification from Engineers Australia (2018-present) Professor Ji actively supervises research students and has secured substantial funding for his work, including multiple ARC Discovery and Linkage Projects. He serves as an Associate Editor for Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing (Q1 journal), Journal of Vibration and Control (Q2 journal), and International Journal of Bifurcation and Chaos (Q2 journal). He is also an active assessor for ARC grant applications since 2007 and for international funding bodies including Hong Kong RGC, Belgium FNRS, and New Zealand MBIE. His industry collaborations include projects with Zip Heaters, Alstom Transport, and Coal Services Health and Safety Trust. As Theme Research Director at the Centre for Audio, Acoustics and Vibration (CAAV) at UTS, Professor Ji leads a research team focused on advancing vibration control technologies and their applications. His laboratory work includes developing innovative vibration isolators, condition monitoring systems for industrial machinery, and energy harvesting technologies. The research group maintains strong connections with industry partners to ensure practical implementation of their theoretical advancements.
Peiyi Wang is an Assistant Professor at Peking University's School of Electronics Engineering and Computer Science, Institute for Artificial Intelligence. With strong research output spanning both natural language processing and robotics, Wang maintains significant collaborations with Southern University of Science and Technology and National University of Singapore, particularly in soft robotics research with Professor Cecilia Laschi. Additionally, Wang is actively involved with DeepSeek-AI, contributing to several major language model initiatives including DeepSeek-R1 and DeepSeek-V2. Peking University, School of EECS, Institute for Artificial Intelligence (Primary) Southern University of Science and Technology (Collaborative) National University of Singapore (Collaborative) DeepSeek-AI Research Organization Dr. Wang's research spans two primary domains with significant intersection points. In natural language processing, Wang focuses on large language model reasoning capabilities, mathematical verification, uncertainty estimation, and preference alignment. The robotics work centers on soft robotics, particularly origami-inspired designs, strain-based modeling, and control systems for continuum manipulators. These domains converge in Wang's work on vision-language models, embodied AI, and multimodal reasoning systems. Recent work demonstrates particular innovation in mathematical reasoning verification (Math-Shepherd), soft robotic control systems, and red teaming frameworks for language model safety. Wang's publication record shows remarkable productivity, with over 40 publications between 2021-2025 across top-tier venues including ACL, EMNLP, CVPR, and IEEE Transactions on Robotics. The work demonstrates consistent progression from foundational NLP tasks to increasingly sophisticated multimodal and reasoning systems. The most recent publications (2024-2025) show particular emphasis on mathematical reasoning verification, soft robotics control, and language model safety evaluation. While specific awards aren't documented in the provided materials, Wang's work has clearly gained significant recognition through acceptance at top-tier conferences and collaborations with leading researchers in both NLP and robotics fields. Wang's research demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections, bridging theoretical NLP work with practical robotics applications. The work with DeepSeek-AI suggests active industry collaboration while maintaining strong academic research output. Current research directions appear focused on improving language model reasoning reliability while developing novel soft robotic systems that can interact safely and effectively with complex environments.
Dr. Xiong Yi is an Assistant Professor at the School of System Design and Intelligent Manufacturing (SDIM) at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) in Shenzhen, China. He leads the Computational Design and Fabrication (CoDeFab) research group, focusing on the integration of computational design methods with advanced manufacturing technologies, particularly in the field of additive manufacturing. Dr. Xiong has established himself as a leading researcher in computational design for additive manufacturing, with a strong international research background spanning Europe and Asia. Dr. Xiong's educational journey includes: Doctor of Science (DSc) in Engineering Design and Production from Aalto University, Finland (2012-2016) Master of Science (MSc) in Machine Automation from Tampere University of Technology, Finland (2010-2012) Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Mechanical Engineering from Hubei University of Technology, China (2006-2010) Dr. Xiong's research primarily focuses on computational design and fabrication methodologies, with particular emphasis on design for additive manufacturing (DfAM), intelligent manufacturing systems, and smart materials. His work bridges the gap between theoretical design principles and practical manufacturing constraints, developing novel approaches for the production of complex engineered products. He has pioneered research in continuous fiber-reinforced composite additive manufacturing, developing innovative process planning and optimization techniques that enable the production of high-performance structural components. His research in electrothermally controlled origami and 4D printing of smart materials represents cutting-edge work at the intersection of materials science, mechanical engineering, and computational design. Dr. Xiong's recent publications reveal a strong focus on continuous fiber-reinforced composites, with significant contributions to 4D printing, metamaterials, and intelligent process planning. His work integrates computational design with manufacturing constraints, creating novel approaches for topology optimization, toolpath planning, and structural design that consider both performance requirements and manufacturability limitations. The research demonstrates increasing sophistication in materials science applications, particularly in programmable materials and multi-functional structures. Dr. Xiong has received multiple prestigious awards for his research contributions, including: Best Presentation Award at the 24th Chinese Conference on Mechanisms and Machine Science (IFToMM CCMMS2024) Best Presentation Award at the International Conference on Frontiers of Additive Manufacturing Research (RAAM 2024) Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Design for 3D Printing (ICD3DP 2023) PhD Scholarship from Aalto University (2016) Research Travel Grant from the International Association for Vehicle System Dynamics (IAVSD) (2013) National Scholarship from the Ministry of Education (2008) As a dedicated educator and mentor, Dr. Xiong serves as a PhD supervisor at SUSTech and has successfully guided students who have gone on to pursue advanced studies and careers at prestigious institutions including Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Beihang University, DJI Innovations, and Singapore's A*STAR research institute. His research is supported by multiple competitive grants, including key projects from the National Key R&D Program of China, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and provincial and municipal funding agencies. Dr. Xiong also serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Engineering Design and as a guest editor for Composites Communications, contributing to the advancement of his field through scholarly service. Dr. Xiong leads the CoDeFab research group, which maintains a strong collaborative culture focused on 'design leading manufacturing, manufacturing driving design, and digital-intelligent integration.' The group has developed several advanced manufacturing platforms, including multi-axis continuous fiber-reinforced composite additive manufacturing systems, smart composite additive manufacturing platforms, and multifunctional soft matter open manufacturing platforms. With a focus on practical applications and innovation, the CoDeFab group actively collaborates with industry partners and has established a joint laboratory to bridge academic research with industrial implementation.
Dr. Carlos Aguiar serves as Assistant Professor in the Industrial Design Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's School of Art and Design, with affiliate status in Informatics at the School of Information Sciences. He directs the Design, Technology, and Society Lab, where he investigates human-artifact interactions through critical design frameworks and cyber-physical systems development. His academic foundation includes a Ph.D. in Design & Human Behavior from Cornell University (2021) with minors in Science and Technology Studies and Information Science, an M.S. in Design Computing from the University of Washington (2017), and a Bachelor's in Architecture & Urbanism from Brazil's Universidade Estácio de Sá (2012). Aguiar's research integrates Science and Technology Studies, Design Philosophy, and Critical Theory to develop technologies that foster social change while examining material culture's societal implications. His dual-focus methodology simultaneously creates tangible artifacts that enhance human-agent-material relations and analyzes how emerging technologies shape societal structures through empirical investigation and critical reflection. This approach prioritizes inclusivity in future-making processes and examines emergent behaviors in technological appropriation. His publication trajectory (2016-2024) reveals consistent advancement in human-computer interaction, particularly in assistive technologies for rehabilitation and autism support, social interaction design in public spaces, and architectural robotics for community building. Key thematic developments include the evolution from single-user wearable devices (Erglove, GripAid) to community-scale cyber-physical systems (communIT, transFORM), with recent work expanding into eco-consciousness and restorative environments through socially interactive robotics. No scientific awards were documented in the provided source materials As lab director, Aguiar cultivates interdisciplinary collaboration between design, informatics, and engineering disciplines. His grant activities focus on developing cyber-physical artifacts that transform underused public spaces into community engagement hubs while addressing societal challenges through human-centered technological innovation. The Design, Technology, and Society Lab functions as an experimental platform where theoretical frameworks from STS and critical design directly inform the creation of responsive environments, objects, and spaces that actively shape social interactions and cultural practices.
Ronit Freeman, PhD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , where she is also affiliated with the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center . Research Focus : Cellular response to extracellular matrix (ECM) cues across multiple length/time scales Methodologies : Synthetic biology, supramolecular chemistry, DNA/RNA aptamer technology Dr. Freeman's work develops reconfigurable ECM platforms to study and engineer cellular fate decisions through: Controllable biochemical and biomechanical signaling Advanced fibrous architecture design Dynamic topography and mechanics modulation Applications in cancer therapy, wound healing, and fibrosis reversal Key collaborations include: Shawn Hingtgen's lab - Therapeutic cell engineering RNA Discovery Center (led by Chad Pecot) Scientific Achievements: Recipient of Eshelman Institute for Innovation Award (2020) Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation Collaborative Innovation Award (2019) Scialog Fellow (2019) Multiple early-career fellowships (EMBO, Clore, Converging Technologies) Her interdisciplinary team combines expertise from chemistry, cell biology, synthetic biology, medicine, engineering, and physics to address cutting-edge bio-nanotechnology challenges.
Timo Laaksonen is a Professor of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki , Finland. His research spans biomaterials, photo-activated systems, and controlled drug release mechanisms, with a focus on nanocellulose applications and photon upconversion technologies. Doctor of Science (Technology), Helsinki University of Technology (2007) Master of Science (Technology), Helsinki University of Technology (2002) Docent, University of Helsinki (2010) Research interests include: Utilizing nanofibrillar cellulose for sustained drug delivery Developing light-responsive hydrogels via triplet energy transfer Advancing photon upconversion for low-power drug release Modeling drug release kinetics from nanomaterials His recent publications highlight trends in DNA origami nanocarriers , liposomal photorelease , and 3D-printable hydrogels , blending nanophotonics and biomaterials engineering . Awards include the Young Researcher's Award 2012 and Gust. Komppa Prize 2008 for his doctoral thesis. He supervises doctoral research and leads projects like Bioblocks (Foundation for Pharmaceutical Sciences) and TARDIS (Academy of Finland).
Sarah C. Koch is a Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the University of Michigan. She received her B.S. from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2001), M.S. from Cornell University (2005), and dual Ph.D.s from Université de Provence (2007) and Cornell University (2008). Her research spans complex dynamics, Teichmüller theory, algebraic geometry, and topology, focusing on dynamical moduli spaces. Education: B.S., Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2001) M.S., Cornell University (2005) Ph.D., Université de Provence (2007) Ph.D., Cornell University (2008) Her work investigates complex dynamical systems in one and several variables, with a strong emphasis on analytic and algebraic approaches to moduli spaces. She has contributed significantly to understanding Thurston maps, rational map dynamics, and algebraic structures in moduli spaces. Her recent publications address boundary stable Thurston maps, Gleason polynomial factorization, and eigenvalues of the Thurston operator. She has received prestigious awards, including the Class of 1923 Memorial Teaching Award, Harold R. Johnson Diversity Service Award, and Haimo Award from the MAA. Scientific Awards: Class of 1923 Memorial Teaching Award Harold R. Johnson Diversity Service Award Haimo Award from the MAA As the Director of the Math Corps program at the University of Michigan, she fosters educational initiatives for middle and high school students from Ypsilanti and Detroit. She actively organizes seminars and outreach programs, including Bagel Sundays and Michigan Math Circle.
Dr. Sepideh Ghodrat is an Assistant Professor of Shape Morphing Design at TU Delft's Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering. She bridges materials science and design, focusing on stimuli-responsive materials for dynamic, interactive products. Her research emphasizes 4D printing, smart materials, and sustainable applications. Research Projects include 4D Printing Magnetically Activated Shape Morphing Objects and SereniSleeve (wearables for anxiety modulation). Courses taught: Materials and Manufacturing (2023-2024). Research Interests : Shape Morphing Design (SMD) Stimuli-Responsive Materials (e.g., shape memory alloys, polymers) 4D Printing and Magnetic Soft Materials Applications in healthcare, automotive, and sustainability Key Contributions : Developed modular self-folding hinges (Mimosa Kit). Explored haptic wearables for visually impaired users. Advocates for adaptive, environment-responsive products. Labs/Teams : Involved in multiple interdisciplinary research teams at TU Delft, focusing on smart materials and sustainable design engineering.
