Roles and Affiliations: Associate Professor at Leiden University, affiliated with the Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC). Active in research groups including MCBIM and CASC. Involved in catalysis and energy sustainability research. Research Interests: Focus on electrochemistry, homogeneous catalysis, redox catalysis, and small molecule activation. Specializes in biomimetic copper complexes for energy conversion reactions, such as nitrite reduction and oxygen reduction. Explores ligand effects on catalytic activity and mechanisms of energy-related reactions. Teaching: Courses include 'Statistische thermodynamica en Spectroscopie', 'Bioinorganic Catalysis', and 'Anthropocene: The Era of Man'. Supervises multiple PhD candidates in catalytic and electrochemical research. Grants and Collaborations: Received Dutch Research Council grants for energy infrastructure projects. Collaborates with industry and academic partners on sustainable chemistry and catalysis. Labs and Teams: Leads the Hetterscheid Group within the LIC, focusing on molecular catalyst design and energy conversion systems.
Francisco Cespedes Mulero is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona with extensive research activity spanning over three decades. His work bridges analytical chemistry, nanomaterials, and sustainable biorefinery processes. His research focuses on advanced biosensor development using amperometric techniques, biocomposites, and carbon nanotubes, alongside pioneering work in biorefinery systems for Mediterranean forest biomass. Key contributions include electronic tongue technology, graphite-epoxy biosensors, and value-added compound extraction from pine bio-oil. Research trends show a strategic shift toward sustainable chemistry applications after 2010, with recent publications emphasizing circular economy approaches in forest management and nanoscale phononics for materials characterization. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for clean energy and responsible consumption. Principal investigator in 13 major research projects since 1996 Recipient of European Regional Development Fund (FEDER) and Spanish Ministry of Science grants Supervised 18 research works including doctoral theses His laboratory collaborations span aerospace, environmental monitoring, and biomedical applications through projects like CoMoS (lab-on-chip systems) and LEBIMAR (electronic tongues). Current work focuses on pine bio-oil valorization and nanoscale phonon detection systems.
Alexander Melkozernov is an Assistant Teaching Professor at Arizona State University (ASU), affiliated with the School of Applied Sciences and Arts. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms of natural photosynthesis and bioenergy, with a background in interdisciplinary studies at the intersection of Biology, Biochemistry, and Biophysics. Education: Ph.D. in Biophysics from the Russian Academy of Sciences Institute of Biophysics (1990). Research Interests Molecular mechanisms of photosynthetic energy conversion Bioenergy applications Structural and functional analysis of photosynthetic complexes Teaching Melkozernov has over 10 years of experience teaching Chemistry and Biology disciplines, including courses like Molecular and Cellular Biology, Principles of Biochemistry, and General Chemistry. Recent courses include ABS 311, BCH 361, CHM 237/238, and CHM 113/116. Grants & Research Activity NSF-MPS grant (2004–2011): Studied supercomplexes of Photosystem I in green algae and cyanobacteria. USDA grants (2001–2007): Investigated energy coupling and excitation dynamics in photosynthetic systems. Labs & Teams Previously served as Scientific Program Manager for the Center for Bio-Inspired Solar Fuel Production at ASU's Department of Chemistry (2010–2014).
Dr. Tridib Saha is an Associate Professor and Director of the Education & Training Academy at Monash University Malaysia, where he leads university-wide initiatives in teaching excellence and professional development. He is affiliated with the School of Engineering and the Department of Electronics Engineering, contributing significantly to both educational leadership and research in sensor technologies. Associate Professor, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia Director, Education & Training Academy, Vice President Education Portfolio Research Focus: Acoustic Wave Sensors, Bio-Sensing, Environmental Monitoring, and Engineering Education Dr. Saha’s research centers on the design and application of acoustic wave resonator-based sensors for environmental and biomedical uses, including VOC detection in wastewater and early diagnosis of dengue. His work spans materials engineering, nanostructured sensing films, and interface electronics. He also champions the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL), promoting pedagogical innovation through programs like Higher Education @MUM. His recent publications reveal a strong trend in developing advanced resonant sensors using novel electrode designs, 2D nanomaterials, and polydopamine-based molecular imprinting. These works integrate disciplines such as materials science, environmental engineering, and biomedical diagnostics, often targeting real-world applications in sustainability and public health. Dr. Saha has been honored with prestigious awards for his contributions to education: PVC Award for Excellence in Education: Teaching Excellence (2023) Vice Chancellor's Education Excellence Award For Teaching Excellence - Early Career (2024) He has successfully led multiple externally funded research projects, including those supported by the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) and industry partners. Dr. Saha supervises research teams working on sensor development and photoelectrochemical systems, and he is currently accepting PhD students. His leadership extends to curriculum design, staff capacity building, and advancing Monash Malaysia’s reputation in higher education excellence. Dr. Saha leads the Education & Training Academy, a key unit fostering professional development for academic staff. His research team collaborates across disciplines on projects involving nanomaterials, wearable sensors, and solar fuel generation, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals in clean water, sustainable cities, and affordable clean energy.
Prof. Dr. Dietrich Einzel is a professor at the TUM School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich (TUM). His expertise lies in Low Temperature Research and environmental science, focusing on greenhouse gas monitoring, urban emissions quantification, and advanced spectrometry technologies. He leads projects involving portable FTIR spectrometers for global GHG observations and develops automated measurement systems like Pyra software. Research interests include methane emissions from urban areas and industrial sites, X-ray diagnostics at facilities like European XFEL, and sustainable materials from keratin waste. He has pioneered networks such as MUCCnet for continuous urban carbon column measurements, enhancing climate data accuracy and satellite validation. Key contributions include quantifying methane leaks from coal mines in Poland, tracking emission patterns during events like Oktoberfest, and advancing low-cost air quality sensor networks. His work bridges environmental chemistry, engineering, and computational modeling to address climate and urban pollution challenges.
Clifford R. Merz is a Senior Scientific Research Faculty member at the University of South Florida's College of Marine Science (CMS), where he has served for over 23 years. He holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Science from USF and is the Program and HF Radar Operations Director for the Coastal Ocean Monitoring and Prediction System (COMPS). His research focuses on ocean engineering, renewable energy technologies, and marine-based sustainable systems. Merz is also the founder and president of Dialytics, Inc., a startup commercializing water-food-energy nexus technologies, including chitosan-based membranes and algae production for biofuels and bioplastics. Merz has held leadership roles such as Commissioner for the City of Safety Harbor, former President of the USF Chapter of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI), and current Chairman of the Marine Technology Society’s Marine Renewable Energy Committee. He has received the Florida League of Cities Home Rule Hero Award (2014) and is a NAI Senior Member (2020). Education: Ph.D. (2008, USF), M.S. (1995, Florida Atlantic University), M.S. (1986, University of Connecticut), B.S. (1984, Florida Atlantic University). Research interests include salinity gradient power, marine bio-waste reuse, and ocean observation systems. His work integrates academia with private-sector entrepreneurship, emphasizing technology commercialization. He has led projects funded by NOAA/IOOS and the National Science Foundation (NSF I-CORPS). Grants and projects include COMPS program leadership, SECOORA research, and NSF I-CORPS mentorship. Merz’s contributions span marine technology, policy, and sustainable innovation, bridging scientific and societal needs.
Bhuvanesh Unhelkar is a Professor of Information Technology at the School of Information Systems and Management, part of the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida's Sarasota-Manatee campus. He specializes in Big Data strategies, AI applications, and Agile methodologies. Currently teaching IT and Project Management courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, he also oversees IT program design and online education initiatives. Education: Ph.D. and M.S. in Information Technology (University of Technology Sydney, 1997/1992) Masters Diploma in Business Administration (IMDR, Pune, 1986) Bachelor of Engineering (Electronic Engineering, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, 1982) Research Interests: Dr. Unhelkar’s work focuses on leveraging technology for business agility, including: Big Data analytics and AI-driven decision-making Cybersecurity in healthcare and IoT Agile project management frameworks Blockchain applications in finance and supply chains Cloud computing optimization IT education and curriculum development Awards & Recognition: Computerworld Object Developers Award (1995) Consensus IT Professional ‘Service to Industry’ Award (2006) Consensus IT Writer’s Award (2010) Service & Leadership: Active in academic governance through roles like: Member, Academic Programs Committee (APC) [2018–2019] Member, Faculty Professional Development Committee (FPDC) [2000–present] Search Committee Lead for Assistant Professor positions Publications: Authored/co-authored over 27 books and 109 research outputs, including seminal works like Artificial Intelligence for Business Optimization and Adoption and Adaption in Digital Business .
Ludvig Edman is a Professor at the Department of Physics, Umeå University, leading the Organic Photonics and Electronics Group (OPEG) . He specializes in developing advanced photonic and electronic devices, particularly light-emitting electrochemical cells (LECs) , focusing on sustainability and energy efficiency. His work integrates materials synthesis, device fabrication, and fundamental physics to create eco-friendly technologies. Edman's research emphasizes organic semiconductors , electrochemical systems , and flexible electronics . He has pioneered methods like spray-coating for device fabrication and developed metal-free LECs, recognized globally for their environmental benefits. His group collaborates with academia and industry, including co-founding LunaLEC for commercial applications. Notable achievements include an ERC Advanced Grant (€2.5M) , EU Horizon 2020 funding, and recognition on the prestigious IVA 100 List . His work bridges fundamental science and applied technology, addressing global challenges in sustainable energy and materials science.
Andrea Alu is a Distinguished Professor of Electrical Engineering and Einstein Professor at the City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate Center. He serves as Founding Director of the Photonics Initiative at the Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC). His primary affiliation is with the Department of Electrical Engineering, with additional ties to the Physics department. Alu’s research focuses on metamaterials, metasurfaces, and photonics, particularly in areas like topological acoustics, nonlinear optics, and bioelectronic devices. His work has produced groundbreaking innovations in wave manipulation, including applications in biomedical engineering and quantum systems. Alu’s academic career includes leadership roles in the field of photonics, with contributions to roadmapping initiatives for 2D materials and metamaterials. He has pioneered concepts such as time-modulated metasurfaces and nonlocal optical effects. His research is supported by grants focusing on metamaterial theory, quantum metamaterials, and bio-inspired systems. Notable achievements include the 2023 Optical Materials Express Emerging Researcher Best Paper Prize (2024). Collaborative efforts extend to labs and teams at the ASRC, emphasizing interdisciplinary projects in photonic computing, acoustic cloaking, and reconfigurable meta-devices. His work bridges fundamental physics with applied engineering, addressing challenges in energy-efficient systems and medical technology.
Dr. Jack Panter is a Lecturer in Fluid Dynamics at the University of East Anglia (UEA), affiliated with the School of Engineering, Mathematics and Physics. He is a member of the Fluids & Structures research group and co-manages the Thermofluids Research Laboratory with Dr. Stefano Landini. His research integrates computational and experimental approaches to study multiphase fluid systems, with applications in sustainability, thermal management, and energy storage. Education: PhD in Physics, Durham University (awarded 2020) MSci in Physics and Chemistry, Durham University (2015, First Class) Dr. Panter's research centers on fundamental interfacial and wetting phenomena, with a strong emphasis on computational modeling. He develops and applies phase-field models, the Binary Image Transition State Search (BITSS) algorithm, and the Lattice Boltzmann method to study fluid equilibria, transitions, and dynamics. His work extends into soft matter, including elastic buckling, bio-elasticity, and colloidal organization. Applications include optimizing super-liquid-repellent surfaces with Procter & Gamble and simulating capillary rise for carbon capture technologies with ExxonMobil. His recent publications focus on thermal management of lithium-ion batteries using phase-change materials, hybrid immersion cooling strategies for electric vehicles, and computational simulations of wetting and capillary phenomena. These works reflect a strong trend toward sustainable engineering solutions, energy efficiency, and advanced computational fluid dynamics. Scientific Awards: No awards explicitly mentioned. Dr. Panter is actively involved in research funding and advising. He leads a Royal Society-funded project on capillary coupling and collaborates on a knowledge exchange project on low-cost thermal energy storage. He advises on computational methods and contributes to interdisciplinary research in thermal systems and fluid dynamics. His lab, the Thermofluids Research Laboratory, is equipped with advanced experimental facilities for thermal characterization, battery testing, 3D printing, and capillary force measurement, enabling both fundamental and applied research. Research Group: Thermofluids Research Laboratory – focused on phase-change phenomena, thermal management of electronics and batteries, and thermal energy storage. The lab supports projects in solid-liquid phase change materials, hybrid composites, microstructure design, and capillary phenomena.
Richard O'Leary is a Lecturer in the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, Faculty of Engineering. His work bridges teaching and research in ultrasonic engineering, measurement systems, and transducer development, with strong applications in biomedical and industrial domains. Research Interests: Ultrasonic transduction using novel polymer materials Design and fabrication of piezoelectric and capacitive transducers 3D printing of tissue-mimicking phantoms and microvascular structures Finite element modeling and wave propagation analysis Applications in non-destructive testing, ultrasound imaging, and sonochemistry The recent publications indicate a strong trend toward additive manufacturing of functional materials and phantoms for advanced ultrasound applications, particularly in high-resolution imaging and therapeutic research. His work increasingly integrates microfabrication, biomimetic design, and acoustic characterization. Professional Roles and Projects: Principal Investigator, EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Ultrasonic Engineering (FUSE) Co-investigator, Transformative Anatomically accurate Microvascular flow Phantoms for Ultrasound therapy research (TAMP-US) Co-investigator, Bio-Inspired Adaptive Ultrasonic NDE feasibility study Principal Investigator, Industrial Case Account project (2015–2022) External Examiner for PhD programs at Technical University of Madrid and other institutions He contributes to teaching in measurement principles, analog/digital circuits, and project supervision for final-year engineering students. He is also active in professional service, including organizing workshops and contributing to IEEE conferences. Labs and Research Groups: His research is based in the Centre for Ultrasonic Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, a leading interdisciplinary group focused on ultrasonic sensor development, imaging, and industrial applications.
Durai Arun Pannir Selvam is a Research Associate in the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, Faculty of Engineering. He is based in the Neuromorphic Sensor Signal Processing Lab within the Centre for Signal and Image Processing, under the supervision of Dr. Gaetano. He also volunteers as a Student Mental Health First Aider (SMHFA) in the department. Education: Doctor of Engineering (PhD), The University of Edinburgh (Nov 2018 – Feb 2023). Research focused on enhancing image processing techniques for organ contour delineation in adaptive radiotherapy. Masters in Medical Electronics, with specialization in signal processing, image processing, and biomedical instrumentation. His research interests lie at the intersection of biomedical engineering and artificial intelligence, particularly in medical image processing , neuromorphic computing , and signal processing . He applies advanced computational methods to improve medical diagnostics and treatment planning, especially in radiotherapy. His work integrates AI models with hardware-efficient implementations using FPGAs and embedded systems. His recent publication explores quantisation-aware training in spiking neural networks, highlighting his focus on efficient, low-power AI models for real-world applications. The work investigates bi-modal accuracy distributions, contributing to the robustness and reliability of neuromorphic systems. He is actively engaged in academic service, having organized the StrathWide 2024 Researcher Conference and delivered an invited talk at a PGR Social and Networking Session, demonstrating his commitment to research community building. Professional Activities: Organiser, StrathWide 2024: The University of Strathclyde Researcher Conference (April 2024) Speaker, PGR Social and Networking Session (September 2024) He has prior experience as a Project Engineer, Senior Research Engineer, and Junior Research Engineer at CSIR National Aerospace Laboratories and CPEES & NHHID, Anna University, contributing to various signal and image processing projects. His lab work centers on the development and application of neuromorphic sensors and their signal processing pipelines.
Laura Rovira Alsina is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Girona specializing in Microbial Electrochemistry at the Laboratori d'Enginyeria Química i Ambiental (LEQUIA) . Her work focuses on scaling bioelectrochemical systems for CO2 reduction to acetate using industrial off-gases and renewable energy. She completed her PhD in Water Science and Technology with cum laude honors in 2022. Specialized in bioelectrochemical systems Worked on industrial waste valorization Expert in renewable energy integration Her research combines chemical engineering with environmental technology to develop sustainable solutions for carbon capture and conversion. She has published 8 peer-reviewed articles (6 as first author) in Q1 journals with impact factors 6-12, including a cover feature in Bioresource Technology . Her h-index of 5 and 165 citations reflect significant impact in the field. Awards: Green Talents Award (BMBF, 2021) Best Figure Award, Bioresource Technology (2022) Doctoral Thesis Cum Laude Recognition (2022)
Paulina Velázquez Solís is a multimedia artist and curator from Mexico and Costa Rica currently serving as a Visiting Critic in the Department of Art at Cornell University's College of Architecture, Art, and Planning. Her practice spans installation, sound, sculpture, drawing, animation/video, and media performance, with a particular focus on the body and the biological/natural world in interaction with cultural and social notions of normalcy as a multinational individual. Her research interests center on the intersection of digital media, sound art, installation, interdisciplinary art practices, performance, sculpture, and technology integration. Velázquez Solís explores the boundaries between traditional craft techniques like textile work and electronics, challenging gendered perceptions of these fields by merging 'feminine' textile crafts with 'masculine' electronic spaces. Her work often incorporates circuit bending, Arduino programming, and MAX/MSP to create interactive installations that respond to audience presence and environmental factors. Her artistic output shows a consistent exploration of organic forms, sound ecology, and the integration of traditional craft with contemporary technology. The most recent works reveal an increasing sophistication in the integration of textile-based electronics, creating installations that transform spaces through responsive sound and visual elements. Her projects often address themes of environmental consciousness, cultural identity, and the decolonization of technological spaces. Artist in Community grant, Community Arts Partnership, New York State Council for the Arts, USA (2021) Winning artists, Bienarte 8, representing Costa Rica in the Central American Biennale 2012 in Panama (2011) Fulbright Scholarship for graduate studies in the United States (2008-2010) Velázquez Solís has developed significant collaborative relationships, particularly with composer/sound artist Travis Johns, who is also her life partner. Their collaborative work explores the intersection of sound, visual art, and interactive technology. She has also been instrumental in developing community workshops on creative electronics in Costa Rica and the United States, despite facing gender-based resistance in some technical communities. Her current work in Ithaca, New York continues her exploration of bio-inspired electronic sound and organic forms in technological contexts.
Dr. Ievgeniia Kovalska is a Lecturer in Advanced 2D Energy Materials within the Department of Engineering at the University of Exeter, and a member of the Nano Engineering Science and Technology (NEST) Group and the UK Metamaterials Network. With over a decade of expertise in 2D and carbon materials, her work spans synthesis, characterisation, and applications in energy, (bio)sensing, (opto)electronics, wearables, and sustainable devices. Education: PhD in Chemistry, Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine MSc in Chemistry and Biology, National Pedagogical Dragomanov University, Kyiv BSc in Biology, National Pedagogical Dragomanov University, Kyiv Her research focuses on innovative materials for energy storage (Li-/non-Li batteries) and renewable energy (triboelectric nanogenerators), leveraging graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides, pnictogens, and tetrels. She employs interdisciplinary methods in material synthesis, device fabrication, and testing to advance sustainable technologies. Her work combines fundamental science with practical applications in sensing and energy harvesting. The 15 most recent articles reflect a strong trend in functional 2D materials, with emphasis on energy storage, optoelectronics, sensing, and sustainability. Keywords span materials science, nanotechnology, and engineering, while subfields include graphene applications, TMDCs, flexible devices, and hydrophobic coatings. Her publications demonstrate a consistent focus on scalable synthesis, device integration, and real-world impact. Scientific Awards and Recognition: Over 50 high-ranking publications with 900+ citations and an h-index of 16 Three granted patents, including a novel method for 2D material synthesis Sole inventor of a hydrophobic coating for stone-wall protection Recognition from global research community and media Dr. Kovalska is actively involved in research supervision (PhD and Masters), consultancy, peer review, and external examining. She has received funding for her postdoctoral and current research roles and is committed to advancing diversity in STEM through initiatives like 'Women in Smart Nanomaterials Technology', 'It's Her', and 'Soapbox Science Exeter'. She serves on the Wellbeing, Inclusion, and Culture Committee, promoting equity and inclusion in science. She leads projects on sustainable energy devices and participates in collaborative networks such as the UK Metamaterials Network. Her lab work involves the NEST Group, where she develops hybrid material systems for next-generation technologies. Future work aims to expand the application of 2D materials in climate-responsive and wearable systems.
