Dr. Shaoyu Zhao is a Research Fellow (Level A) at RMIT University's School of Engineering. His research focuses on advanced composite structures, mechanical metamaterials, graphene nanocomposites, and molecular dynamics simulations. He holds an ARC DECRA Fellowship and has over 40 journal publications with 2000+ citations (h-index 26). Awards include the ICES2024 Best Paper Award and 2025 DECRA. He supervises Masters/PhD students in areas like metaconcrete and functionally graded structures. Editorial roles include Early Career Board Member for Engineering Structures (Q1), International Journal of Structural Integrity (Q1), and others. Teaching includes the course MIET1076 - Mechanical Vibrations. His work bridges nanoscale simulations (e.g., graphene interfaces) with macro-scale engineering applications (e.g., 3D-printed composites and metamaterial energy absorption). Research spans multi-physics phenomena in perovskite materials and machine learning-driven material analysis. Key Projects: Metaconcrete composites, origami metamaterials, graphene-reinforced nanocomposites Lab Focus: Multiscale modeling for aerospace composites and smart materials
Bin Liu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of California Merced. His research focuses on fluid dynamics, microfluidics, and active matter systems, with emphasis on bacterial motility, geometric control of fluid flows, and origami-based mechanics. He explores applications in biomedical engineering and material science through innovative microfluidic device designs and theoretical frameworks. His work integrates experimental and computational approaches to study phenomena such as symmetry-protected flows, bacterial behavior in structured environments, and topological properties of origami metamaterials. Liu’s contributions bridge physics, engineering, and biology, addressing challenges in lab-on-a-chip technologies and active matter systems. Key research topics include stress-free microfluidic manipulation, size-dependent transport in micropillar arrays, and the dynamics of bacterial aggregates. His studies often reveal how geometric and symmetry principles can be leveraged to control fluid flows and microbial behavior at microscopic scales.
Professor Friedrich Simmel (*1970) holds the Chair of Physics of Synthetic Biosystems at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) within the TUM School of Natural Sciences, Department of Bioscience. His research laboratory is located at Am Coulombwall 4a in Garching near Munich, where he leads a vibrant research group focused on the physics of synthetic biological systems. Professor Simmel's research interests center on bionanotechnology, particularly artificial molecular machines and nanostructures made from DNA molecules, as well as the design of artificial biochemical control circuits. His work bridges physics, chemistry, and biology to create novel synthetic biosystems with programmable functions. Key research areas include DNA origami, DNA nanotechnology, synthetic gene circuits, and biomimetic systems. His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward increasingly complex DNA-based nanodevices with applications in biosensing, nanomedicine, and synthetic biology. The research shows progression from fundamental DNA nanostructure design to functional systems with practical applications in diagnostics and biocomputation. His group has pioneered approaches for creating DNA-based nanorobots, synthetic membrane channels, and programmable biochemical oscillators. ERC Advanced Grant (2015) Human frontier science program (HFSP) young investigator award (2006) Emmy Noether Young Researcher of the German Research Foundation (2002) acatech - the German Academy of Science and Engineering (2013) Professor Simmel actively mentors numerous students and junior researchers, as evidenced by the many co-instructors listed on his practical courses. His research has been supported by prestigious grants including the ERC Advanced Grant. His laboratory maintains strong collaborations across disciplines, working with researchers in microfluidics, synthetic biology, and biomedical engineering. The group operates within TUM's advanced infrastructure for biophysics and nanotechnology, including facilities for electron microscopy, NMR spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography.
Torsten John is an Assistant Professor of Physical Chemistry at the School of Science, Constructor University Bremen gGmbH, Germany. His research bridges biophysical chemistry and computational chemistry to engineer biomolecular systems for biomedical applications. PhD in Chemistry (2020) from Leipzig University (summa cum laude) Postdoctoral experience at Max Planck Institute, MIT, and Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering Research focuses on biomolecular self-assembly and membrane interactions , with implications for antimicrobial strategies , nanomedicine , and neurodegenerative diseases . Articles show interdisciplinary work combining experimental and theoretical approaches . Publications include high-impact journals like Advanced Functional Materials and Nucleic Acids Research . His group develops bionanomaterials using peptide nanofibrils and DNA origami, with applications in viral particle isolation and exciton transport . Collaborations span institutions in Germany, USA, and Australia. Teaching includes Physical Chemistry (CO-440) and Physical Chemistry Lab (CO-446-B) .
Associate Professor Joe Gattas is affiliated with the University of Queensland's School of Civil Engineering , where he leads the Folded Structures research group. His work bridges origami-inspired engineering , computational building design , and advanced manufacturing , with a focus on lightweight/modular structures and timber engineering . Education: BEng (2009) and PhD (2013) from the University of Queensland and University of Oxford, respectively. Research interests emphasize digital fabrication , hybrid materials , and structural innovation . His recent publications highlight trends in timber-CFRP composites , self-shaping structures , and value chain optimization for sustainable timber use. Scientific awards include the prestigious John Monash Scholarship . He actively supervises PhD and Master’s students in projects related to timber composites , structural optimization , and low-cost housing . Joe contributes to ARC Research Hub initiatives , co-leading Manufacturing Innovation and Value Chain Innovation nodes, and develops open-source tools like TimberTracker to visualize timber supply-demand dynamics.
WANG Zhisong is an Associate Professor at the National University of Singapore, leading the Molecular Motors Lab. His research focuses on experimental development of artificial molecular motors, particularly translational motors that differ from rotational systems awarded the 2016 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, with applications in biomedical nanotechnologies and precision engineering. Research Interests: The lab specializes in DNA-based molecular motors powered by light or chemical fuels, combining biophysical/biochemical techniques with stochastic thermodynamics. Applications include nanorobotics, DNA origami platforms, nano-assembly lines, and autonomous motion systems. Publications: Recent work explores light-selective control of DNA motors (2024), advanced nanorobotics via DNA origami (2023), and theoretical limits in directional fidelity (2013). Themes span sustainable motion, color-responsive systems, and integration of molecular motors with structural DNA nanotechnology. Contact: Office S16-07-07, Tel +65 6516 2606, Email phywangz@nus.edu.sg.
Joshua Edel is a Professor of Biosensing & Analytical Sciences at Imperial College London's Department of Chemistry within the Faculty of Natural Sciences. He specializes in developing trace analyte analytical platforms, including bioanalytical sensors for clinical applications. His work focuses on single-molecule detection, nanopore sensors, and microfluidic systems. Edel has published over 180 research articles and secured prestigious grants like the ERC Starting Grant (2011) and ERC Consolidator Award (2017). His research spans nanobiotechnology, plasmonic sensors, and biosensor innovation. Education: PhD in developing single-molecule detection within microfluidic systems from Imperial College London (2003). Postdoctoral research at Cornell University (School of Applied and Engineering Physics) and a fellowship at Harvard University's Rowland Institute (single-molecule biophysics). Research Interests: Edel’s lab pioneers techniques such as high-throughput droplet microfluidics, optical/electrical single-molecule sensors, and plasmonic nanopore sensors. His work addresses challenges in diagnostics, nanoelectronics, and structural chemistry. Key areas include developing selective biosensors for clinical samples and advancing nanoscale probing technologies. Grants & Awards: ERC Starting Grant (2011): Rare event bioanalysis ERC Consolidator Award (2017): Selective single-molecule biosensors Funding from EPSRC, Wellcome Trust, and industrial partners Advising & Labs: Edel leads projects in Imperial’s Department of Chemistry and collaborates across disciplines. His lab develops cutting-edge tools like nanoscale tweezers for single-cell analysis and nanofluidic platforms for biomarker detection. He actively consults in biosensing technology.
Daniel Robertz is a University Professor of Algebra and Number Theory at RWTH Aachen University, Germany, with his office located at Pontdriesch 14/16, Room 102 in Aachen. He actively participates in several academic seminars including the Joint Algebra Seminar at RWTH Aachen University, the Kolchin Seminar in Differential Algebra (online/New York), and the Diff.-Equations and Singularities Seminar (online). Professor Robertz's research spans multiple mathematical disciplines with primary focus on Differential Algebra , Difference Algebra , Computer Algebra , Discrete Geometry , Simplicial Surfaces , Group Theory , Invariant Theory , and Algebraic Systems Theory . He has developed several influential Maple packages including Janet , Involutive , JanetOre , LDA , and OreModules that have advanced computational methods in algebraic analysis of differential systems. His scholarly output demonstrates a consistent focus on algorithmic approaches to differential equations with increasing interdisciplinary applications, particularly in structural engineering through discrete geometry and origami-inspired designs for carbon-reinforced concrete structures. This research trajectory shows how abstract mathematical concepts can solve practical engineering problems, especially in sustainable construction materials development. Editorial Board of Mathematics in Computer Science Special Issue in Honor of Vladimir Gerdt (2022) Applications of Computer Algebra (ACA 2017, Jerusalem) (2019) Professor Robertz has organized numerous international workshops on computational differential and difference algebra and maintains active research collaborations across mathematics, engineering, and materials science disciplines. His work on algebraic methods for structural design involves partnerships with researchers in civil engineering, architectural design, and materials science. He leads research activities in the Chair of Algebra and Number Theory at RWTH Aachen, where his team develops computational methods for algebraic analysis of differential systems. His group maintains strong international connections with research communities in computer algebra, differential algebra, and mathematical engineering applications.
Isabel Maria Dias Cabral is a Contracted Researcher at the Centre for Textile Science and Technology (2C2T) at Universidade do Minho, Portugal. She holds a Doctorate in Textile Engineering (2018) and has academic background in Industrial Design (2004) and multiple Masters in Textile and Design fields (2009, 2011). Her research focuses on smart materials applied to textile design, particularly color change materials, shape memory textiles, and sustainable practices. Doctorate in Textile Engineering (2018) Master in Space, Product and Communication Design (2009) Licenciatura in Industrial Design (2004) Her work explores intersections between Humanities (Arts, Architectural Design) and Engineering (Materials, Textiles). Key research areas include smart textiles , interactive materials , and ecological coloration , with a focus on thermochromic , photochromic , and hydrochromic textile systems. Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate expertise in natural dyes (eucalyptus, weld, madder), colorimetry in design education , and functionalization of materials for specific applications. She co-supervises PhD and MSc students in projects related to sustainable fashion , smart printed textiles , and ecological coloration . Scientific recognition includes: CEECIND award (2022) Post-Doc grant (2018) FCT PhD grant (2012) Active in project coordination (Bioeconomia Têxtil e Vestuário_BE@T), educational outreach through workshops, and international collaboration with institutions in Sweden, Spain, and Belgium. Her work bridges art , science , and technology in textile innovation.
Prof. dr. Martin van Hecke is a group leader at the FOM Institute AMOLF in Amsterdam and a professor of physics at Leiden University. He obtained his PhD in theoretical physics from Leiden University in 1996 and has since led interdisciplinary research at the intersection of experiments, simulations, and theory in soft matter and mechanical metamaterials. Professor of Physics, Leiden University Part-time Group Leader, AMOLF PI of the 'Designer Matter' and 'Modern Mechanics' initiatives His research focuses on harnessing disorder and frustration in materials to design systems where complex behavior emerges, particularly in mechanical metamaterials capable of storing and processing information. Key areas include pattern formation, origami-inspired design, jamming, and the inverse problem in material science. Notable scientific awards include the Vici grant (2011) and the ERC-Advanced grant (2021). His group at AMOLF actively trains PhD students such as Bernat Dura Faulí, Colin Meulblok, and Margot Teunisse, while pioneering collaborations in programmable materials and soft robotics. Selected publications highlight his work on emergent memory , geometric control , non-Abelian mechanics , and information processing in materials . His research infrastructure leverages the AMOLF NanoLab and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) facilities.
Kris Dorsey is an Associate Professor at Northeastern University, holding dual appointments in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (College of Engineering) and the Department of Physical Therapy, Movement, and Rehabilitation Sciences (Bouvé College of Health Sciences). She also serves as an MLK Visiting Associate Professor at MIT’s Media Lab. Her research focuses on soft robotics, wearable medical devices, and multifunctional materials. Dr. Dorsey earned her Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and a B.S. from Olin College. Education: Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 2013 B.S., Electrical and Computer Engineering, Olin College Her research interests include designing reconfigurable soft sensors for medical and robotic applications, with a focus on integrating flexible electronics and active materials. Notable projects include the PARSES (Programmable and Reconfigurable Soft Engineered Systems) group, which explores soft robotics and wearable technologies for healthcare and industrial use. Key Awards: NSF CAREER Award (2019) Japan-America Frontiers of Engineering Participant (2023) Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering Emerging Leader (2022) Emerging Leader Abie Award (2022) Dr. Dorsey’s work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, bridging engineering, healthcare, and materials science. She mentors students in Northeastern’s undergraduate research programs and leads initiatives funded by NSF and industry partnerships.
G. Ulrich Nienhaus is a Professor at the Institute of Applied Physics , Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) , and leads a research group focused on Biophysics and Nanoscopy . His work integrates physics, biology, chemistry, and computational methods to develop advanced light microscopy techniques with high spatial and temporal resolution. Key research areas include fluorescent protein engineering , single-molecule spectroscopy , super-resolution microscopy , and nanoparticle-biomolecule interactions . His group investigates molecular processes in living cells , protein folding , ligand dynamics , and quantitative imaging for biomedical and material science applications. Scientific Contributions span decades, with recent work highlighting innovative STED microscopy methods, DNA origami-based distance rulers , and fluorescent nanocluster applications . Publications emphasize biomolecular dynamics , nanoparticle corona formation , and live-cell imaging tools .
Xingjie Ni is an Associate Professor in the Electrical Engineering department at the Materials Research Institute (MRI) . With a focus on metasurface physics , photonics , and plasmonics , their research spans advanced optical technologies and computational imaging. Research Trends : Recent work explores metasurface design for achromatic lenses and light manipulation machine learning-enhanced polarimetric imaging with encoding metasurfaces ultrathin optical devices enabling geometric image transformations reconfigurable liquid crystal systems for dynamic photonic applications electrically tunable nonlinear optics for ensemble learning nanoscale fabrication techniques for scalable metalenses Grants & Projects : Active grants include NSF funding for Photonic Integrated Guided-Wave-Driven Metasurfaces NASA collaboration on Metalens Origami Deployable Lidar National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering support for Metasurface-Based Endoscope
Markus Deserno is a Professor of Physics at Carnegie Mellon University's Mellon College of Science, Department of Physics, where he serves as Director of Graduate Affairs. His research focuses on theoretical and computational biological physics, investigating mesoscopic phenomena in lipid membranes, proteins, and other biological systems through the lens of fundamental physical principles. Educational background: Ph.D. from Max-Planck-Institute for Polymer Research (2000) Habilitation in Computational Physics from Mainz University, Germany (2006) Deserno's work centers on how thermal fluctuations, cooperativity, self-assembly, and elasticity govern biological systems at scales between atomic resolution and whole cells. He employs continuum elastic theories, differential geometry, and coarse-grained simulations to develop simplified models that capture essential physics without atomic detail. His research group actively explores membrane mechanics, phase behavior, and curvature elasticity, with particular emphasis on asymmetric lipid bilayers and their biological implications. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a dominant focus on membrane asymmetry (appearing in 8/15 papers), Gaussian curvature mechanics (6/15), and computational methodology development (12/15). His work increasingly integrates DNA nanotechnology with membrane systems and addresses thermodynamic consequences of lipid composition. Honors include: Thomas E. Thompson Award from Biophysical Society (2021) Otto Hahn-Medal from Max Planck Society (2001) As Section Editor for The Biophysical Journal and active member of four professional societies (American Physical Society, Biophysical Society, American Chemical Society, German Physical Society), Deserno maintains significant scholarly engagement. His research group, featuring members Nick, Mert, Martina, Muhammed, Nishchay, and Amirali, receives funding from federal agencies supporting computational biophysics research. The Deserno group operates within Carnegie Mellon's high-performance computing environment, developing specialized simulation tools for mesoscale membrane phenomena while maintaining strong collaborations with experimental biophysics laboratories worldwide.
Dr. Lauren Stewart serves as Associate Professor and Director of the Structural Engineering and Materials Laboratory (SEML) at Georgia Tech's School of Civil and Environmental Engineering. She holds the Williams Family Professorship and serves as Associate Chair for Graduate Programs. Her leadership encompasses a 18,000-square-foot facility housing blast, shock, and impact research capabilities with specialized equipment including servo-controlled hydraulic actuators and overhead cranes. Education: B.S. in Structural Engineering, University of California, San Diego (2004) Ph.D. in Structural Engineering, University of California, San Diego (2010) Dr. Stewart's research pioneers experimental methods for structural response to extreme hazards, with national recognition as one of the top blast researchers in the US. Her work spans blast engineering (steel columns, CLT panels, UHPC systems), mechanical shock (ROOSTER apparatus development), seismic resilience , and infrastructure durability (ASR mitigation, concrete preservation). Current projects address ballistic timber applications, UHPC retrofits, and blast-resistant construction with military relevance. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates computational mechanics with large-scale physical testing. Her research portfolio demonstrates consistent focus on protective structures and infrastructure resilience, with recent publications emphasizing timber-based ballistic systems, ASR damage detection, and UHPC applications. The work bridges military needs (CLT for temporary construction) and civilian infrastructure challenges (bridge deck longevity). Scientific Awards: National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellow 2017 Rising Star in Structural Engineering CEE Excellence in Research Program Development Award (2017) NSF/NDSEG Fellowship mentor for students Dr. Stewart actively mentors military-affiliated scholars, with advisees including LTC Kate Sanborn (first woman to lead USACE Hawaii District) and LTC Marc Sanborn. Her research program has secured over $773k in recent grants including Wood Innovations Grants ($200k+) for CLT military applications and GDOT contracts for concrete durability. She directs the CEE London program taking students to structural landmarks in London, Edinburgh, and Paris. As SEML Director, she oversees Georgia Tech's blast testing capabilities including the Blast, Shock, and Impact Laboratory. Her team collaborates with USACE, ERDC, West Point, and ARL on force protection research, with recent projects focused on rapid-deployment timber structures and high-g shock measurement systems.
