Sarah Billington is the UPS Foundation Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Stanford University and a Senior Fellow at the Woods Institute for the Environment. Her research program focuses on sustainable building design, human wellbeing, and ethical supply chain practices. Education: PhD, University of Texas at Austin, Structural Engineering (1997) MSE, University of Texas at Austin, Structural Engineering (1994) BSE, Princeton University, Civil Engineering & Operations Research (1990) Her lab employs interdisciplinary methods to study how built environments impact human physical, psychological, and social wellbeing. Current projects include developing tools to quantify nature exposure in buildings, exploring affordable housing's role in wellbeing, and using AI to assess forced labor risks in material supply chains. While no longer active in this area, her group previously pioneered research on sustainable construction materials like bio-based composites and ductile cement-based composites. Her recent publications address topics such as nature integration in architecture, workplace design optimization, and health impacts of building materials. The Billington Lab at Stanford fosters collaborative team science, welcoming partnerships to advance occupant-centric engineering solutions.
Alper Gürarslan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Textile Engineering at Istanbul Technical University. His research focuses on sustainable and functional textiles, biomaterials, nanomaterials, and biomedical applications. He leads several projects on electronic textiles, wound dressings, and eco-friendly materials. Key collaborations involve combining natural fibers with advanced materials. University: Istanbul Technical University Department: Department of Textile Engineering Research interests include nanowire-coated alginate films, poplar fiber composites, and smart textiles for wearable electronics. He has published extensively on topics like thermal insulation properties of nonwovens and antibacterial material integration. Notable projects include 'Regenerated Cotton for Electronic Textiles' (EU-funded) and 'Productive Catalytic Living Materials' (TÜBİTAK). He has received awards for contributions to flexible electronics and sustainable textile materials. Awards: Flexible and Wearable Electronics (2018), Smart Textiles from Sustainable Materials (2021) Current projects span biobased membranes, high-efficiency filtration systems, and medical textile applications. His work emphasizes sustainability and interdisciplinary innovation.
Dr. Sophie Koch is a Lecturer at ETH Zürich's Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering. Her research focuses on bio-based composites, circular wood use, and enhancing wood properties. She leads the research streams 'Enhanced wood properties' and 'Resource-efficient wood utilization.' Education: PhD Candidate (2020-2023): ETH Zurich, Wood Materials Science Group MSc in Biobased Materials (2018-2020): Maastricht University BSc in Wood Technology (2013-2017): UAS Rottenburg Key Research Themes: Her work emphasizes sustainable material innovation through bio-based composites, wood recycling, and functionalization of wood for advanced applications like soft actuators and energy-harvesting systems. Recent publications highlight advancements in transparent wood films, triboelectric nanogenerators, and durable delignified composites. Professional Experience: Postdoctoral Researcher & Lecturer (2024-2024) Master’s Thesis at Swiss Wood Solutions AG (2019-2020) Research Assistant at UAS Rottenburg (2017-2018) Journalist at Holz-Zentralblatt (2014-2017) Labs & Teams: Active in the Professur Holzbasierte Materialien research group at ETH Zürich's HIF E 20.1 laboratory.
Nonappa Nonappa is an Associate Professor (tenure track) in Nanochemistry at Tampere University's Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences since 2020. With a multidisciplinary background spanning organic chemistry, supramolecular systems, nanoparticle self-assembly, and advanced electron microscopy, he leads research at the intersection of materials science and biomedical applications. PhD in Organic Chemistry (IISc Bangalore, 2008) Docent in Soft Matter Microscopy (Aalto University, 2017) Executive MBA (Quantic School, 2020) Research focuses on bio-based optical materials using nanocellulose for sustainable photonics, breast cancer models via lab-on-a-chip systems, and precision nanomaterials through tailored self-assembly mechanisms. His team develops 3D extracellular matrices for cancer tissue culture and plasmonic nanodevices for photonic applications. Recent publications highlight gold/silver nanocluster assemblies (43+ citations in 2021-2025), electron tomography for structural analysis, and metastasis modeling systems. Key awards include Italy's Abilitazione Scientifica Nazionale (2018) and Aalto University's Docent title (2017).
Peter Van Puyvelde is a Full Professor at KU Leuven's Faculty of Engineering Sciences, where he leads research at the Soft Matter, Rheology and Technology (SMaRT) unit within the Department of Chemical Engineering. He is an active member of the Applied Rheology and Plastics Processing Division and the Leuven.AM Institute for Additive Manufacturing. His academic responsibilities include membership in the Faculty Council of Engineering Sciences and departmental committees. His core research focuses on: Polymer processing and complex fluid dynamics In-situ characterization of flow-microstructure relationships Flow-induced crystallization phenomena Development of sustainable polymer materials Additive manufacturing technologies Professor Van Puyvelde's recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate strong emphasis on sustainable polymer systems including lignin-based materials, humins valorization, bioplastics, and green additives. His work frequently employs advanced characterization techniques like fast-scanning calorimetry and synchrotron X-ray scattering to study crystallization kinetics and microstructure development in complex polymer systems. He currently supervises PhD students working on nanofiltration membranes and reinforced polymer parts. His extensive research portfolio includes leadership roles in multiple ongoing projects: Polylactic acid bioplastics development (Co-promoter) Lignin-based flame retardants (Co-promoter) Humins valorization for functional polymers (Co-promoter) Ionic liquids for enhanced oil recovery (Promoter) Competition between crystallization and crosslinking (Promoter) Additive manufacturing of polymer composites (Co-promoter)
Dr. Carla Vilela is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Aveiro and Principal Researcher at CICECO. She coordinates the Sustainable Materials research line and leads projects on cellulose-based materials and circular economy. Her research focuses on sustainable materials from cellulose and renewable resources for applications in water remediation, food packaging, and textiles. Education includes a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Aveiro and postdoctoral work at CICECO and ISIS Neutron and Muon Source (UK). Research interests include: Development of cellulose-based functional materials Nanocomposites for biomedical applications Sustainable packaging solutions Biopolymer modification and characterization Publications demonstrate strong focus on cellulose nanocomposites, bioprinting bioinks, and active packaging. Recent articles frequently involve nanocellulose modifications, drug delivery systems, and sustainable material design. Awards include being named among World's Top 2% Scientists annually since 2020. Funding includes national projects (Cell4Janus) and EU collaborations (PRIMA Im-Pack). Leads the BioPol4Fun research group and supervises 6 PhD students. Current projects explore cellulose-based microrobots, resin valorization, and marine biopolymers.
Orlando Rojas is a Professor at the University of British Columbia (UBC), holding joint appointments in the Departments of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Chemistry, and Wood Science. He leads the Biobased Colloids and Materials (BiCMat) research group and directs the Bioproducts Institute . His research focuses on sustainable development through renewable materials, including nanopolysaccharides, bacterial nanocellulose, lignins, and multiphase systems. Rojas has advised over 50 PhD students and 40+ MS students, with a h-index of 90 (Google Scholar). Key Roles/Positions : Canada Excellence Research Chair in Renewable Materials Adjunct Professor at NC State University (USA) and Dalian Polytechnic University (China) Director of FinnCERES Flagship (Finland) Research Interests : Development of bio-based materials for energy, healthcare, and environmental applications. Key areas include nanocellulose functionalization, lignin valorization, and bioinspired materials. His work integrates colloidal science, multiphase systems, and sustainable manufacturing. Grants & Awards : ERC Advanced Grant and Horizon H2020 funding 2013 ACS Fellow, 2015 Tappi Nanotechnology Award First Latin-American recipient of the Anselme Payen Award (ACS) Labs & Collaborations : Active partnerships with Aalto University (Finland) and institutions globally. Leads the BiCMat group spanning UBC and FinnCERES, focusing on bio-based materials and sustainable technologies.
Douglas A. Loy is a full Professor at the University of Arizona with joint appointments in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering and the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and additional affiliations with the BIO5 Institute and the School of Mining and Mineral Resources. A fifth-generation Arizonan, he earned his BS in Chemistry from the University of Arizona (1983), MS in Chemistry from Northern Arizona University (1986), and PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of California, Irvine (1991). Before returning to academia he spent 14 years at Sandia National Laboratories and then led the Polymer and Nanomaterials Synthesis Team at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Research Interests Sol-gel & polysilsesquioxane chemistry: fundamental studies and unconventional routes to hybrid organic-inorganic materials. Tetrazine polymer chemistry: synthesis, click modification, and application in antioxidant foams and UV-stable sunscreens. 3-D printing of glasses & ceramics: additive manufacturing of micro-optics, multi-refractive-index glass objects, and transparent devices using silica and silsesquioxane resins. Energy & biomaterials: new materials for energy storage, polymer-ceramic bone scaffolds, and smart packaging films. Across more than 70 recent publications (2012-2025), the dominant themes are advanced additive manufacturing of specialty glasses and ceramics, design of photochemically stable sunscreen systems, and development of multifunctional polymer-ceramic composites for biomedical and energy applications. The work integrates molecular-level organic synthesis with macro-scale materials processing, enabling applications ranging from holographic micro-optics to lunar in-situ resource utilization. Scientific Awards & Recognition While specific honors are not listed in the provided text, Loy is described as a “distinguished member of technical staff” at Sandia National Laboratories, indicating prior recognition for his research achievements. Funding & Collaborative Teams At the University of Arizona his group pursues federally and industrially funded projects spanning NSF, DOE, and NASA programs, particularly in advanced manufacturing and energy materials. He collaborates closely with the BIO5 Institute for biomedical applications and with the School of Mining and Mineral Resources for resource-based materials research. No explicit student lists are included in the text. Laboratory & Facilities Loy’s laboratories are located in Mines and Metallurgy 338B at the University of Arizona, equipped for sol-gel synthesis, polymer processing, and state-of-the-art 3-D printing instrumentation including multi-photon lithography systems for micro-optics fabrication.
Rhett C. Smith is a Professor of Chemistry at Clemson University, leading a research group dedicated to sustainable materials innovation since 2006. His work focuses on transforming industrial waste streams into high-performance composites through green chemistry approaches. His academic background includes: B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Toledo Ph.D. in Chemistry from Case Western Reserve University NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship at MIT Professor Smith's research pioneers waste valorization using elemental sulfur and biomass derivatives. Key areas include: Upcycling mixed plastic and food waste into structural materials Developing sulfur-based polymers for sustainable construction Creating circular economy solutions for agricultural byproducts His group's work bridges fundamental chemistry with commercial applications in South Carolina's industrial sector. Recent publications reveal a strong trend toward atom-economical processes using waste sulfur and biomass. The research emphasizes scalable technologies for plastic recycling and sustainable cement alternatives, with increasing focus on food waste upcycling and flame-retardant composites. Major recognitions include: National Merit Scholar and NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship Two-time InnoVision Award Finalist (2024 Sustainability category) Fats and Proteins Research Foundation Innovate Award Fred Bisplingoff Research Innovation Award Professor Smith has mentored over a dozen Ph.D. students to successful careers in national labs and industry. His group secured seven major grants in Spring 2024 from NSF, USDA, and industry partners to advance sustainable materials for structural applications. Current projects focus on upcycling post-consumer waste streams and developing carbon-negative building materials. The Smith Research Group operates as a collaborative hub within Clemson's chemistry department, recently expanding to include four faculty co-leaders (Tennyson, Ashlyn Smith, and Sauceda). The team maintains strong industry partnerships while promoting academic accessibility through open educational resources.
Hans Steenackers is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, KU Leuven, where he leads the MICA Lab within the Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems. His research focuses on innovative antimicrobial strategies targeting microbial communities, including socio-active, anti-resistance, and observation-guided approaches. Key research areas include biofilm dynamics antimicrobial resistance evolution in situ microbial monitoring Salmonella Typhimurium pathogenesis anti-virulence therapies His recent publications highlight advancements in biofilm inhibition, triggered antimicrobial release systems, and evolutionary robustness of probiotics. The majority of his work involves interdisciplinary collaborations, particularly in projects like TARDIS, ULTiMatE-MS, and MICROTUNe, with a focus on translating fundamental research into clinical applications. As an educator, he teaches advanced courses in microbial physiology, biofilm research, and applied biotechnology. The MICA Lab actively partners with academic and industrial stakeholders in initiatives such as the Flemish Scientific Research Network on Biofilms and the Bioclean H2020 project.
Dr. Yuemei Lin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). Her work is centered within the Environmental Biotechnology research section, where she leads the Yuemei Lin Group. She is actively involved in research and teaching related to sustainable resource recovery and biobased materials. Her research focuses on the extraction and characterization of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) from microbial aggregates such as flocculent sludge, granular sludge, and biofilms. She investigates the role of EPS in aggregate formation and reactor performance, and explores the recovery of EPS from waste sludge for conversion into valuable biobased materials. This work aligns with the transition toward a circular economy. Dr. Lin teaches the course Biobased Materials in a Circular Economy and contributes to the Minor Sustainable Chemistry and Biotechnology in collaboration with Leiden University. Her recent publications (2024–2025) reflect a strong focus on EPS composition, extraction methods, thermal stability, hydrogel properties, and industrial applications, particularly in wastewater treatment contexts. Research Themes: EPS, biopolymers, wastewater valorization, circular economy, microbial aggregates. Applications: Kaumera development, sustainable materials, resource recovery. Scientific Awards: Zilveren Zandloper Innovation Award (2019) Aquatech Innovation Award for Kaumera (2019) Water Innovation Award 2013 (TU Delft and partners) Dr. Lin has secured funding through programs such as NWO’s Open Technology Program and Take-off, demonstrating strong grant acquisition. She collaborates extensively with leading researchers including Prof. Mark C.M. van Loosdrecht. While no formal advisees are listed, her role in teaching and group leadership indicates active student supervision. Her work is closely tied to applied research initiatives and industrial implementation, particularly through the development of the Kaumera biopolymer from wastewater sludge.
Jouko Peltonen is a Professor in Chemistry at Åbo Akademi University's Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering. He leads the Laboratory of Molecular Science and Technology, focusing on sustainable material development and biomedical applications. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals through green chemistry innovations. Ph.D. in Chemistry (Åbo Akademi, 1994) Licentiate in Chemistry (Åbo Akademi, 1992) Master's in Chemistry (University of Helsinki, 1988) Peltonen's research spans materials science , polymer chemistry , and sustainable technology , with emphasis on nanocellulose composites , antibacterial materials , and bio-based packaging . Recent projects explore biofilm modeling and lignin valorization. His publications (216 total) demonstrate interdisciplinary impact across biomedical engineering , environmental science , and chemical manufacturing . Key collaborations include NordForsk-funded initiatives and EU projects like PACKER 2020. Research grants include: Printed Intelligence Infrastructure (Academy of Finland, 2024-2028) Nordic POP (NordForsk, 2018-2025) ABC-Health (Jane och Aatos Erkkos Foundation, 2021-2024)
Tomasz Majka serves as a Lecturer at the Department of Polymer Chemistry and Technology within the Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology at Tadeusz Kościuszko Cracow University of Technology. His academic career spans over a decade with continuous research and teaching activities focused on polymer engineering and materials science. His educational background includes a Licentiate in Applied Chemistry (2008) and Pedagogical Preparation (2008) from State Higher Vocational School in Tarnów, followed by MSc in Plastics Technology (2010) and Dr. Eng. in Technical Sciences (2015) from Tadeusz Kościuszko Cracow University of Technology. Majka's research primarily centers on polymer processing technologies , with special emphasis on thermal analysis and flammability of polymer materials , nanocomposite development , and terminal ballistics . His work bridges fundamental polymer science with practical industrial applications, particularly in developing sustainable flame retardant systems using biobased materials like lignosulfonamides. Recent publications reveal a strong focus on circular economy approaches through polymer recycling and biodegradable material development. His scientific contributions demonstrate consistent output in high-impact journals, with a notable shift toward sustainable polymer solutions since 2020, particularly in biodegradable composites and recycling technologies. The 15 most recent publications show expertise spanning flame retardancy mechanisms, nanocomposite engineering, and sustainable polymer processing. III place at International Session of WIiTCh Krakow University of Technology Science Clubs (2010) Award in 'Sustainable Development - Scientific Debut 2010' competition (2010) Award in 'Poster about famous scientist - Norio Taniguchi' competition (2011) II Prize in B-Innovative 'Be Entrepreneurial' business plan competition (2013) Majka actively supervises the Ballistic and Flammability Research Section within WIiTCH PK Chemistry Research Club and maintains strong industry connections through numerous industrial research projects. His professional engagements include international research stays at University of Bolton (UK) and Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, focusing on fire testing and polymer materials innovation. He serves as a scientific advisor for several industrial projects related to polymer processing and material safety. His laboratory work spans multiple specialized facilities including thermal analysis equipment, scanning electron microscopy, and polymer processing machinery. Current research directions include developing halogen-free flame retardants from lignin derivatives, optimizing biodegradable polymer composites, and advancing recycling technologies for post-consumer plastics.
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in LausanneSwitzerland
Yves Leterrier is a Senior Scientist and lecturer at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), where he has been a faculty member since 1993. He works in the Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites (LPAC) within the Institute of Materials at the School of Engineering. His academic career spans over three decades with significant contributions to sustainable materials science and polymer composite technologies. Senior Scientist, Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites (LPAC) Teaching roles in SMX and EDMX programs PhD program committee member for Materials Science and Engineering Author of over 300 technical articles including 145 peer-reviewed journal papers Leterrier's research focuses on sustainable materials and processes, particularly in polymer composites, multilayer and hybrid materials, photopolymerization and sol-gel processes, mechanics of thin films on polymers, and roll-to-roll process methods. His work bridges fundamental materials science with practical applications in flexible electronics, renewable energy, and sustainable packaging. He has pioneered techniques for creating bioinspired surfaces, diffusion-barrier coatings, and cost-effective manufacturing processes for advanced materials. His recent publications reveal a strong emphasis on water permeation monitoring in bioelectronic implants, fluorine-free superhydrophobic surfaces, and biobased composites using nanocellulose. His research shows a clear trajectory toward sustainable materials solutions with applications in medical devices, flexible electronics, and environmentally friendly packaging. The consistent theme across his work is the development of reliable, high-performance materials through innovative processing techniques and composite design. Leterrier actively contributes to the academic community through editorial roles, including serving on the editorial board of Applied Surface Science since 2012 and as Associate Editor for Frontiers in Materials since 2014. He coordinates EPFL's Minor on 'Engineering for Sustainability' and has been President of the EPFL Materials Science Library commission since 2000. His leadership extends to industry collaboration through multiple funded research projects. His current research portfolio includes significant projects such as BioPack (biobased packaging materials), FLEXCAN (flexible encapsulation of active implants), 3DP4PEACE (sustainable 3D printing), and DuPrintProtect (advanced manufacturing). Previously, he led projects including XinoCaps, UltraCeal, SUNLITE, and REFLEX, demonstrating consistent funding success across diverse materials science applications. He also serves on the board of the French Adhesion Society and has organized international symposia on materials and micro-technologies. Leterrier leads the Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites, where his team develops cutting-edge materials processing techniques. His work on photo-hyphenated methods, UV nanoimprint lithography, and electro-fragmentation analysis represents the laboratory's focus on innovative characterization and manufacturing approaches for advanced materials.
Graham Ormondroyd is a Professor at the School of Environmental and Natural Sciences , Bangor University , specializing in the Biocompounds department. His research focuses on innovative wood modification techniques, sustainable biomaterials, and environmental impact assessments. Current projects include scaling waste-based composites for infrastructure and developing Welsh wool applications. Collaborations span academia-industry partnerships like Bangor University and Zentia Ltd KTP. Research Trends: His 2025 publications emphasize multi-scale resin diffusion analysis and UK wood recycling frameworks, while 2024 work explores laser incising and phenolic resin-NMR interactions. Recent studies also address VOC emissions from formaldehyde-free composites. Professional Activities: He chairs academic panels (e.g., International Panel Products Symposium) and reviews publications. Projects focus on net-zero construction and climate resilience.
