Lisa Wallner Samstag is a Professor of Psychology at Long Island University's Brooklyn Campus, affiliated with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and Department of Psychology. She is Director of Psychotherapy Research and Clinical Supervisor at LIU's Psychological Services Center, and Senior Consultant at Mount Sinai Beth Israel's Psychotherapy Research Program. B.A. in Psychology from Queen’s University M.A., M.Phil., and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from City University of New York Her research focuses on therapeutic alliance development, alliance ruptures, process-outcome dynamics, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and developmental themes like parenting and infertility. She has extensively published on ruptures in psychotherapy and their resolution. Dr. Samstag's publications span from 2004 to 2022, emphasizing therapeutic alliance dynamics, rupture repair strategies, and clinical outcomes across diverse psychotherapy approaches. Her work bridges theoretical concepts with practical applications in alliance-focused training. Fellow of the American Psychological Association (APA) She supervises trainees in alliance-focused therapy, co-edited a book on rupture repair, and contributes to psychotherapy literature through book chapters and editorship roles in APA journals.
Dr. Benjamin Pontiller is a researcher at GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Germany, within the Marine Biogeochemistry Research Division and Biological Oceanography Research Unit . His work focuses on microbial carbon cycling in marine environments, particularly the role of bacterioplankton in transforming dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Current projects: INDICOM, ICEBERG, HOMER, BIOCAT Recent expeditions: RV SONNE (Indian Ocean 2024), RV POLARSTERN (Arctic 2024), RV METEOR (Atlantic 2022) His research integrates omics technologies with chemical and rate measurements to understand microbial functional potential in: Coastal upwelling systems Deep Arctic Ocean (HAUSGARTEN) Baltic Sea phage dynamics Trace metal impacts on microbial communities Education: PhD in Ecology (Marine Microbial Ecology) - Linnaeus University 2021 MSc in Ecology (Marine Biology) - University of Vienna 2015 BSc in Biology - University of Vienna 2013
Martha C. Tompson is Associate Professor and Clinical Program Director in the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences at Boston University. She earned her PhD from UCLA and directs the Family Development and Treatment Lab. Her research examines family processes in mental health, with focus on depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia interventions. Key research areas include: Family-focused treatments for childhood depression Impact of maternal depression on child development Family psychoeducation for bipolar disorder Dr. Tompson has developed novel family-based interventions for preadolescent depression and studied transgenerational transmission of depression vulnerability. Her work emphasizes culturally responsive treatments and includes randomized trials demonstrating treatment efficacy. She mentors clinical psychology students and teaches evidence-based intervention strategies.
Igor Kortchemski is a CNRS researcher at the Department of Mathematics and Applications (DMA) at École Normale Supérieure, Paris, and a lecturer in the Department of Applied Mathematics at École Polytechnique. His primary research focuses on the continuous limits of random discrete models, particularly examining how discrete combinatorial structures converge to continuous objects under appropriate scaling. His educational background includes a PhD in Mathematics (2012) under Jean-François Le Gall at École Normale Supérieure and a Habilitation à diriger des recherches (HDR) in Mathematics (2016). Kortchemski's research spans several interconnected areas: Random trees and Galton-Watson processes with heavy-tailed distributions Random planar maps and their geometric properties Growth-fragmentation processes and their connections to Lévy processes Scaling limits of combinatorial structures and their continuous counterparts His publication record shows a consistent focus on the geometric properties of random discrete structures, with recent work (2023-2025) exploring uniform attachment processes with freezing, critical tree phenomena, and the mesoscopic geometry of sparse random maps. His research often involves sophisticated probabilistic analysis combined with combinatorial insights. Scientific recognition includes: prix de thèse solennel Perrissin-Pirasset / Schneider de la chancellerie des Universités de Paris (2012) Kortchemski actively contributes to academic service: Examiner for the minor math exam at École Polytechnique (FUF) since 2023 Member of the mathematics jury for ENS International Selection (2023) Member of the jury for the external mathematics competitive examination (Agrégation) since 2021 Member of the jury for the Arts and Economic and Social Sciences Bank (B/L) mathematics exams (2015-2018) He mentors the next generation of researchers as co-director of Antoine Aurillard's and Vanessa Dan's theses (both since 2023), and previously directed Etienne Bellin's (2020-2023) and Paul Thevenin's (2017-2020) theses.
Dag Hanstorp is a Professor at the Department of Physics, University of Gothenburg. His office is located at Fysikgränd 3, Göteborg (Room F8032), and he can be contacted via email or telephone. His research focuses on experimental atomic/molecular physics and laser applications, including: Quantum phenomena in levitated droplets Ultraprecise spectroscopy of radioactive molecules (e.g., radium monofluoride) Laser-induced dynamics in fuels and aerosols Electron affinity measurements of alkali metals Vacuum laser particle acceleration techniques Spin Hall nano-oscillator characterization Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate interdisciplinary work combining atomic physics, fluid dynamics, quantum optics, and nanotechnology. Common themes include advanced laser spectroscopy, quantum system control, and novel imaging techniques applied to fundamental physical processes.
Sam Emaminejad is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). His research focuses on developing advanced wearable bioelectronic systems for continuous, noninvasive health monitoring and personalized therapeutics. Key Research Areas: Biomarker detection via flexible sensors Microfluidic and ferrobotic systems Stress and drug level monitoring Biodegradable and breathable wearable materials Recent Trends: Analysis of sweat and interstitial fluids using microneedles, aerogel skins, and programmable microfluidics. Machine learning integration for physiological evaluation is prominent. Awards & Collaborations: While specific awards aren't listed, he collaborates with major UCLA Health and Engineering faculty, including Ali Khademhosseini and Dino Di Carlo, on projects funded by NIH T32 grants and institutional fellowship programs. Grants & Labs: Leads projects in NIH-funded wearable sensor research, including the development of autonomous systems for cystic fibrosis and glucose monitoring. His lab explores ferrobotic swarms and hydrogel-based interfaces for clinical and consumer applications.
Andrew J. Schuler is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of New Mexico, where he has been since 2007. His research focuses on microbial processes in wastewater treatment and bioremediation, with particular emphasis on modeling distributed bacterial states, biofilm dynamics, and integrating molecular methods with environmental engineering. He teaches courses in water/wastewater treatment (CE 335) and biological wastewater treatment (CE 536). Ph.D., Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California at Berkeley (1998) M.S., Civil and Environmental Engineering, UC Berkeley (1993) B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder (1987) Dr. Schuler's research addresses critical challenges in biological wastewater treatment , including: Microbial storage products and density effects on solids separation Agent-based modeling of bacterial state distributions Integrated fixed-film activated sludge (IFAS) systems Photolytic and microbial degradation of Superfund chemicals His recent publications explore biofilm surface chemistry , algae-based wastewater treatment , and computational modeling of microbial communities . Notable funded projects include NSF CAREER grants, NIEHS Superfund subprojects, and North Carolina Biotechnology Center collaborations. National Science Foundation CAREER Award (2004) Paul L. Busch Award (2008) AEESP/CH2M HILL Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award (1999) Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Postdoctoral Fellowship (1999) Dr. Schuler leads the Schuler Laboratory , which investigates microbial dynamics in wastewater treatment systems, develops the DisSimulator agent-based modeling tool, and provides practical solutions for activated sludge settling problems through density analysis. Current funding supports advanced research in biofilm optimization and sustainable water reuse technologies.
David S. Cafiso is a Professor in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics at the University of Virginia. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of membrane transport and cell signaling, utilizing advanced techniques such as EPR spectroscopy, high-resolution NMR, and solid-state NMR. He has made significant contributions to understanding membrane protein structure and function, particularly in relation to synaptic vesicle exocytosis and bacterial nutrient transport. Education: AB, PhD in Biophysics from the University of California, Berkeley; Postdoctoral training at UC Berkeley and Stanford University His research interests span Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural Biology, Neuroscience, and Microbiology. Recent work highlights conformational dynamics in membrane proteins, lipid-protein interactions, and the role of electrostatics in signaling. Publications emphasize PIP2 regulation, C2 domain function, and TonB-dependent transport systems, with applications in both bacterial physiology and neurosecretion. Professor Cafiso's laboratory investigates two primary areas: (1) Membrane protein attachment mechanisms critical for cell signaling, and (2) Solute transport across lipid bilayers in gram-negative bacteria. His studies often integrate biochemical, structural, and biophysical approaches to probe dynamic processes in membrane biology.
Matthew Holden is an Associate Professor in the School of Computer Science at Carleton University. He holds a PhD (2018) and MSc (2014) from Queen's University and a BScH (2012) from Western University. His research focuses on Surgical Data Science, applying machine learning to surgical time-series data from operating rooms and simulations to improve patient outcomes and surgical training. Key areas include real-time decision support, performance assessment, and surgical efficiency through domain-knowledge integration. Research interests emphasize machine learning for surgical workflows, skill assessment via sensor data (e.g., motion tracking, EEG), and computer-assisted interventions. Notable work includes automated proficiency evaluation in cataract surgery, ultrasound-guided procedures, and neurosurgical training. His contributions span medical robotics, surgical education, and clinical decision support systems. Publications highlight advancements in surgical workflow anticipation, tool detection, and skill metrics across domains like ophthalmology, emergency medicine, and neurology. Holden advocates for interdisciplinary approaches combining computational methods with clinical expertise to enhance healthcare delivery.
Dr. Jay Yoon is an Associate Professor at Department of Human Centered Design , College of Human Ecology , Cornell University . He leads the Meta Design & Technology Lab which focuses on creating products that enhance both momentary and long-term user experiences through human-centered design , human-computer interaction , and positive psychology principles. Education : BA & BE in Industrial Design & Computer Science, Handong University (South Korea) MSc in Design for Interaction, Delft University of Technology (Netherlands) PhD in Emotion-driven Design, Delft University of Technology His research demonstrates how emotional granularity and positive emodiversity in technology interactions can significantly improve user well-being. He has developed multiple design tools like the EmotionPrism and Positive Emotional Granularity Cards. Industry collaborations include smart home services , airport crew centers , museum tours , and brand loyalty programs . Notable publications span International Journal of Design , She Ji: The Journal of Design, Economics, and Innovation , and International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction . Scientific Awards : Sloan Recent Alumni Achievement Award His design projects have been exhibited at international conferences including Design & Emotion and Dutch Design Week . Current research explores technology-mediated well-being through hedonic and eudaimonic experience design.
Dr. Reine van der Wal is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences , Utrecht University, specializing in Social, Health and Organisational Psychology . Her work focuses on the intersection of social relationships, forgiveness, and organizational dynamics. Research Themes: Forgiveness, interpersonal relationships, workplace psychosocial risks, and interdisciplinary teaching. Collaborations: Graduate School of Life Sciences, UWV (Dutch Employee Insurance Agency), Netherlands Labour Authority. Her research explores relationship imbalances in organizations and families, including restoring social safety after trust breakdowns, forgiveness in post-divorce co-parenting, and workplace aggression. She integrates findings into policy development on social safety at Utrecht University. Key Publications (2024-2017) address forgiveness in late childhood, romantic relationships, work-family guilt during the pandemic, and dyadic coping in chronic illness. These works span psychology, organizational ethics, and developmental studies, emphasizing emotional regulation and social cohesion. Scientific Awards: SPSP Service Award (In-Mind Magazine, 2016) Advising: Supervises PhD research on social safety in academia (Julia Houben) and institutional trust (Michiel Kuik). Involved in workplace psychosocial risk research with Netherlands Labour Authority.
Sina Sareh is a robotics researcher at the Royal College of Art (RCA), where he leads the RCA Robotics Laboratory within the School of Design. He has established himself as an expert in soft robotics and multimodal sensing, developing innovative solutions for human safety and access problems in industrial operations. Dr. Sareh's educational background includes: PhD in Robotics from the University of Bristol, where he worked on monolithic design of flexible actuators for operation in confined liquid environments MSc in Control Systems from the University of Sheffield BSc in Electrical Engineering from Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran Dr. Sareh's research focuses on soft robotics, multi-modal mobility, manipulation and attachment, and multimodal sensing. His work bridges the gap between robotics engineering and practical applications, particularly in medical and industrial settings. He has developed novel approaches to robotic attachment inspired by octopus biology, created haptic interfaces that mimic the feeling of touching human internal organs, and designed soft robotic technologies to help articulate pain symptoms. His research consistently demonstrates innovation in creating adaptable robotic systems that can operate effectively in complex, unstructured environments where traditional rigid robots face limitations. His publication record demonstrates a strong trajectory in robotics research, with emphasis on soft robotics, medical applications, and novel sensing techniques. The research shows progression from fundamental soft actuator design to practical applications in surgery, industrial operations, and human-robot interaction, with a consistent focus on solving real-world problems through biologically inspired approaches. Dr. Sareh has successfully secured multiple research grants, including EPSRC funding for 'Getting a Grip' and 'Multi-vendor Interoperability in Robotics,' as well as InnoHK funding for 'Intelligent Medicine Warehousing.' He has also served as an impact assessor for the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 in Engineering and is a member of the editorial board at IET Cyber-physical Systems and Robotics Journal. Currently, Dr. Sareh advises research students including Filippo Sanzeni, and maintains active collaborations with industry and academic partners through the RCA Robotics Laboratory, which serves as a hub for interdisciplinary robotics research at the intersection of design, engineering, and human-centered applications. His work on projects like 'Topographies of Pain' and 'Reminisys' demonstrates a commitment to applying robotics technology to improve healthcare outcomes and quality of life.
David Sbarra serves as Professor and EOS Foundation Endowed Chair in Health Psychology at the University of Arizona's Department of Psychology, where he directs the Laboratory for Social Connectedness & Health (LSCH). His research examines the biopsychosocial mechanisms linking social relationships to health outcomes, with particular focus on how divorce, marital separation, and loneliness function as risk pathways for poor health. Dr. Sbarra's academic credentials include: B.S. in Psychology from Cornell University (1996) Clinical Internship at University of Wisconsin Department of Psychiatry Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from University of Virginia (2004) His research program centers on social relationships and health, stress physiology, and genetically-informed methodologies including twin studies, polygenic risk scores, and Mendelian Randomization. The Laboratory for Social Connectedness & Health investigates how high-quality relationships promote health resilience while relationship disruptions create vulnerability, emphasizing causal inference through advanced quantitative methods and open science practices. Recent publications reveal a pronounced shift toward establishing causal relationships in the social connection-health field, with heavy utilization of genetically-informed designs and multi-method approaches. His 2024-2025 work demonstrates particular innovation in applying Mendelian Randomization to loneliness-depression pathways, examining cardiovascular impacts of marital separation, and developing novel measures for couple therapy processes. Dr. Sbarra holds the prestigious EOS Foundation Endowed Chair in Health Psychology, recognizing his significant contributions to understanding social determinants of health. His co-authored work in the American Psychologist has helped establish social connection as a critical public health priority. While specific advising details aren't documented in available sources, his laboratory direction and course instruction (including PSY 383 Health Psychology and clinical practica) indicate active mentorship of graduate students. His research program likely operates through multiple federally funded grants supporting genetically-informed longitudinal studies. The Laboratory for Social Connectedness & Health employs diverse methodologies including daily diary assessments, physiological monitoring, fMRI, and genetically-informed designs to examine how social connection operates as a fundamental health determinant across the lifespan. Current projects focus on causal mechanisms linking relationship quality to biological aging, intervention development for attachment security, and public health applications of social connection research.
Yoon Jung Choi serves as Assistant Professor in Industrial Design within the School of Design at Virginia Tech, where she bridges sustainable design, behavioral science, and technology to advance circular economy principles through interdisciplinary research and industry collaboration. Her academic credentials include: Ph.D. in Innovation Design Engineering from the Royal College of Art, UK M.A. in Graphic Communication Design from Kingston University, UK B.A. in Product Design from Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London, UK Choi's research centers on accelerating sustainability in industrial design through behavioral interventions and technological innovation. She investigates how design influences consumer behavior to reduce waste, extend product lifecycles, and enable circular material flows, with particular emphasis on children's products, packaging systems, and community-driven co-design approaches. Her work integrates participatory methods with AI applications to develop practical solutions for real-world sustainability challenges. Analysis of her publication portfolio reveals consistent focus on circular economy implementation, with recurring themes in product hibernation, care practices for material longevity, and systemic approaches to waste reduction. Her research demonstrates growing integration of AI-driven methodologies and community engagement strategies across diverse contexts including food waste transformation and toy reuse systems. Her scientific recognition includes: New Faculty Teaching Award, School of Design, Virginia Tech (2023) College Scholarship, Royal College of Art, UK (2015) Toshiba Hard Disc Drive Revolution Design Competition Highly Commended Award (2005) ICI Dulux Student Design Award Runner-up Prize (2001) Choi has secured significant research funding including VT Engage Development funds for community collaboration with SustainFloyd, Center for Human-Computer Interaction matching funds, and multiple ICAT SEAD grants supporting projects like ToySphere (focusing on toy reuse systems) and Sustainable Art Painting initiatives. Her ten years of industry experience at major design consultancies including Samsung Design Europe informs her practical approach to academic research. She leads the ToySphere project employing co-design methods to transform food waste into natural pigments and develop community-based reuse systems, demonstrating her commitment to translating research into tangible environmental solutions through interdisciplinary team collaboration.
Prof. Torsten Ochsenreiter is a Group Leader at the Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, and part of the Multidisciplinary Center for Infectious Diseases (MCID). His research focuses on molecular parasitology, particularly on trypanosomes and malaria parasites, utilizing advanced microscopy techniques to study fundamental biological processes. His primary research interests include mitochondrial biogenesis, kinetoplast genome maintenance, RNA editing mechanisms, and cytoskeletal dynamics in Trypanosoma brucei . He investigates how mitochondrial DNA is segregated during cell division and how post-translational modifications regulate parasite transmission. His work bridges cell biology, structural biology, and infectious disease research to understand pathogenic mechanisms in neglected tropical diseases. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on the tripartite attachment complex (TAC), mitochondrial genome inheritance, and expansion microscopy applications. His research demonstrates how structural adaptations in parasite organelles enable survival and transmission, with significant implications for developing novel therapeutic strategies against African sleeping sickness and malaria. No scientific awards were mentioned in the provided text. Prof. Ochsenreiter advises students and leads an active research team at the University of Bern. The Ochsenreiter lab provides opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in cutting-edge parasitology research, though specific grant funding details were not provided in the text. The Ochsenreiter lab operates within the Institute of Cell Biology and specializes in molecular parasitology techniques including expansion microscopy, cryo-electron tomography, and genetic manipulation of trypanosomes. The team investigates mitochondrial biology and cytoskeletal organization to uncover vulnerabilities in parasite life cycles.
