Patrick Rinke serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Applied Physics at Aalto University, Finland. His research bridges theoretical physics, materials science, and computational methodologies with a strong focus on machine learning applications. His computational work spans electronic structure theory, materials design, and atmospheric chemistry. Rinke's research integrates Bayesian optimization, active learning, and high-throughput computational screening to accelerate materials discovery, particularly in hybrid perovskites, catalysts, and biomaterials. Recent work demonstrates machine learning's transformative potential in predicting molecular properties, optimizing materials functionality, and solving complex physical chemistry problems. His scientific contributions have been recognized with multiple awards: Thesis Prize from the Institute of Physics (2003) DFG Research Scholarship (2007-2009) Outstanding Postdoctoral Achievement Award (2009) Outstanding Referee of Physical Review Letters (2014) August-Wilhelm Scheer Visiting Professorship (2017)
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).
Jessica Rosenholm is a Professor at the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Pharmacy at Åbo Akademi University. Her research focuses on drug delivery systems, nanomedicine, and biomaterials engineering. She holds a D.Sc.(Tech.) and has authored over 200 publications. Key research areas include mesoporous silica nanoparticles, 3D bioprinting, and antimicrobial resistance solutions. Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in advancing health technologies. Notable achievements include the Akzo Nobel Nordic Research Prize 2009 and the Knight, First Class, of the Order of the White Rose of Finland (2022). She leads projects like the MADNESS Centre of Excellence, exploring materials-driven solutions against antimicrobial resistance. Education: Doctor of Science (Technology) Research Interests: Nanoformulations, biomedical imaging, microfluidics, and tissue engineering. Recent articles highlight innovations in programmable nanocomposites for hearing loss treatment, microfluidic assembly of nanostructures, and 3D printing of drug delivery systems. Awards: ÅAU Chancellor’s Prize (2013), Forskarpriset ur Harry Elvings legat (2009) Grants: Projects funded by EU, Finnish Research Council, and Sigrid Jusélius Foundation. Labs/Teams: BioNanoMaterials group explores cutting-edge technologies like nanomedical agents and microfluidics. Current projects include the NAP4DIVE initiative for blood-brain barrier drug delivery.
Michael Gasik is a Professor at the Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University. With over 30 years of experience in technology transfer, he has led initiatives across the EU, Japan, and the Middle East, including BC-Net (EC DG Enterprise). He serves as an expert for European bodies like EC/REA, COST, and ERC since 1993. His research spans biomaterials ceramic materials metals processing sustainable manufacturing additive manufacturing green energy systems and focuses on interdisciplinary applications in biomedical and environmental engineering. Recent research trends include advanced biomaterials for medical implants (e.g., PEO-coated magnesium alloys) multi-material 3D printing for industrial components green hydrogen production via HyS cycle optimization sustainable polymer composites photocatalytic nanomaterials blockchain-enabled recycling for electric vehicles Scientific accolades include 2023 EORS Ambassador for Finland 2015 National State Prize of Ukraine 2013 M.M. Dobrohotov Award 1997 JSPS Scholarship 1995 Best Doctorate Thesis Award 2007 Certificate of Appreciation for Functional Graded Materials He has secured funding through 10 EU projects, 2 IEA projects, and over 15 national projects, contributing to >300 publications and patents. His expertise extends to technology transfer leadership and peer review for journals and funding agencies in multiple countries.
Marjo Yliperttula is a Professor at the Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki. She serves as a supervisor in the Doctoral Programmes in Biomedicine, Drug Research, and Materials Research and Nanosciences, with expertise in biomaterials and pharmaceutical technology. Her research focuses on nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) hydrogels for wound healing and drug delivery, extracellular vesicle (EV) engineering for therapeutic applications, and freeze-drying technologies for biomaterial preservation. Key contributions include NFC-based wound dressings that enhance platelet-rich plasma release (2024), Raman spectroscopy methods for monitoring freeze-drying-induced mutarotation (2024), and tandem chromatography techniques for high-purity EV isolation (2023). Her work bridges pharmaceutical sciences with regenerative medicine, emphasizing translational applications in chronic wound treatment and targeted drug delivery. Recent publications (2022-2025) reveal three dominant trends: (1) Optimization of NFC hydrogels for controlled drug release and tissue regeneration, (2) Advanced characterization of EV phenotypes under hypoxic conditions for improved therapeutic efficacy, and (3) Development of analytical methods (Raman spectroscopy, chromatography) to address manufacturing challenges in biopharmaceuticals. These themes reflect her group's commitment to solving critical problems in biomaterial stability, EV-based delivery, and precision wound care. Professor Yliperttula has supervised 10 doctoral theses, including recent work on NFC for skin substitutes (Elle Koivunotko), freeze-drying of hydrogels (Arto Merivaara), and mesenchymal stromal cells for wound healing (Jasmi Snirvi). She currently leads the Academy of Finland-funded GeneCellNa project (2024-2026) on gene/cell/nanotherapy for chronic diseases and a Finnish Red Cross project (2023-2024) on NFC for blood products, with cumulative project funding spanning 18 initiatives since 2005. She heads the Biopharmaceuticals Group within the Drug Research Program, fostering collaborations across pharmaceutical biosciences, materials science, and clinical medicine to advance next-generation therapeutic platforms.
Jouni Hirvonen is a Professor in the Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology at the University of Helsinki's Faculty of Pharmacy. He serves as Supervisor for doctoral programmes in both the Doctoral Programme in Drug Research and the Doctoral Programme in Materials Research and Nanosciences. With an extensive publication record spanning over three decades, Hirvonen has contributed 384 research outputs and participated in 3 major research projects. His research interests focus on pharmaceutical technology, particularly in drug delivery systems, nanoparticles, and drug dissolution and absorption. His work bridges pharmaceutical chemistry with cutting-edge nanotechnology applications, developing innovative delivery systems for therapeutic agents. His research spans from fundamental pharmaceutical sciences to translational applications in regenerative medicine, immunotherapy, and cardiovascular pharmacology. The analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on advanced drug delivery platforms, particularly utilizing nanoparticles, lipid-based systems, and biomaterials for targeted delivery. His work increasingly integrates microfluidic technology for precise nanoparticle preparation, with applications spanning cancer immunotherapy, cardiovascular repair, tendon regeneration, and inflammatory disease treatment. The trend shows a growing emphasis on combination therapies, RNA delivery, and cell-mediated drug delivery approaches. Hirvonen has received several prestigious awards throughout his career: CRS/Eurand Grand Prize Award on Innovations in Oral Drug Delivery Technologies (2007) Suomen Valkoisen Ruusun Ritarikunnan I luokan ritarimerkki (2013) The Young Scientist in the University of Kuopio (1993) University of Helsinki Quality Teaching Unit, Faculty of Pharmacy (2005) Visiting Professor award (2015) With 25 instances of supervising doctoral theses and numerous academic activities including conference organization, committee memberships, and editorial work, Hirvonen has made significant contributions to academic mentorship and institutional development. His research has been supported by projects including Generation Green, 3i REGENERATION, and IVIVRe. His work appears to involve collaboration with multiple research teams focusing on drug delivery applications across various therapeutic areas.
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)
Sami Hietala serves as a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry, University of Helsinki. He holds a Docent title in the same department and acts as a supervisor for doctoral programmes in Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, as well as Materials Research and Nanosciences. University: University of Helsinki Department: Department of Chemistry Academic Rank: Senior Lecturer His research focuses on polymers, microgels, and responsive materials. Key projects include Functional Microgels, Multiresponsive Polymers, and Hydro- and Organogels. He collaborates internationally on polymer science and nanotechnologies, with extensive outputs in pharmaceutical and food hydrocolloids. Recent publications highlight innovations in lignin nanoparticle interfacial behavior (2025), amniotic stem cell hydrogels (2025), and oleogel systems (2025). Earlier works (2024) emphasize lignin adsorption dynamics and polysaccharide characterization. Scientific Awards: Teaching Award (2007) Karl Clason Rheology Award (2022) Hietala has organized Nordic Polymer Days (2024) and served on doctoral thesis committees. His ORCID (0000-0003-1448-1813) and contact details are publicly listed.
Professor Hongbo Zhang is a leading academic at Åbo Akademi University , affiliated with the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering and the InFLAMES (Innovation Ecosystem based on the Immune System) flagship program. With over 227 publications and 21 active/completed projects since 2006, his research spans Functional Materials , Drug Delivery , and Clinical Translation . Research Interests: His work focuses on Engineering nanostructures for blood-brain barrier penetration Microfluidics-enabled biomedical devices Antimicrobial resistance solutions Cellulose-based sustainable materials Mitochondrial delivery systems Theranostic hydrogels Scientific Awards: Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (2024) MDPI Pharmaceutics Young Investigator (2020) Chinese Orthopedic Association 1st Prize (2019) Best Oral Drug Formulation (Control Release Society, 2014) 10 Leading Chinese Talents in Europe (2023) Collaborative Network: Actively hosts international researchers and contributes to EU/Nordic-funded projects like NAP4DIVE and Printed Intelligence Infrastructure . His recent publications demonstrate expertise in nanomedicine, biocomposites, and lignin valorization.
Mikko Ritala is a Professor at the University of Helsinki's Department of Chemistry. His research focuses on atomic layer deposition (ALD), thin film materials, and catalytic processes. He leads the HelsinkiALD research infrastructure and has been a project manager for initiatives like the Intel-Ritala 2023-2026 corporate-funded project. Ritala has received the Alfred Kordelin Foundation Award (2010) for his contributions to materials science. His work spans interdisciplinary areas including energy materials, biomedical coatings, and environmental applications of advanced materials. Key research interests include developing novel ALD processes for functional thin films, optimizing photocurrent responses in energy systems, and exploring catalytic etching techniques. He actively collaborates internationally and organizes conferences such as the Materials for Advanced Metallization Conference (MAM2025) and the International Conference on Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD 2024). Ritala's research group has published extensively (>625 outputs) on topics like ALD-grown oxides, carbides, and fluorides, as well as applications in photovoltaics and environmental engineering. The HelsinkiALD laboratory under his leadership serves as a hub for ALD innovation and industrial partnerships.
Jouni Paltakari is a Professor in Bioproducts and Biosystems at Aalto University. His research focuses on paper converting and packaging technology, with particular interest in value-added fiber-based substrates, nanocellulose applications, and intelligent packaging solutions. He leads research activities in material characterization, composite modeling, and sustainable manufacturing processes. Institution: Aalto University Department: Bioproducts and Biosystems Research Areas: Paper converting, Packaging technology, Nanocellulose, Sustainable composites Email: jouni.paltakari@aalto.fi
Liqiu Hu is a Doctoral Researcher at the Laboratory of Natural Materials Technology , affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Åbo Akademi University. Their research focuses on bio-based materials , polymerization techniques , and nanocellulose applications , contributing to Sustainable Development Goals like responsible consumption and climate action. Key research areas: Lignin, Nanocellulose, Polymerization, Bio-based films, Green chemistry, Biocomposites Recent work trends: In-situ polymerization, Pickering emulsions, Drug delivery systems, Agricultural waste upcycling, Aqueous dispersion processing Collaborations include researchers from Åbo Akademi University and TAPPI Press. Publications span from 2017 to 2025, highlighting innovations in biopolymer interfaces and sustainable packaging . The laboratory's fingerprint indicates strong alignment with lignin (100%), nanocellulose (75%), and polymerization (66%) research.
Arri Priimägi is a Professor at Tampere University's Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, leading the Smart Photonic Materials research group. He focuses on functional soft materials, particularly light-activated systems for applications in soft robotics, photonics, and biomaterials science. His interdisciplinary work bridges physics, chemistry, and engineering, emphasizing collaboration to advance materials for future technologies. Education: PhD in Applied Physics from Helsinki University of Technology (2009), MSc in Physics from Tampere University of Technology (2004). His career includes postdoctoral research in Japan (Tokyo Institute of Technology) and Italy (Politecnico di Milano). Research Interests: Design of stimuli-responsive materials, light-driven actuators, and bioinspired systems. Key projects include ERC Starting Grant-funded work on tunable photonic structures and an ERC Proof-of-Concept Grant for optical humidity sensing. He leads the Chemistry & Advanced Materials research cluster and contributes to the PREIN Flagship in photonics. Awards : Academy of Finland Award for Scientific Courage (2018) ERC Starting Grant (2016) Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award (2009) Grants & Projects : ERC Proof of Concept: Optical Sensing of Humidity (2018–2020) ERC Starting Grant: Tunable Photonic Structures (2016–2021) Academy of Finland Fellowship: Halogen-Bonded Materials (2014–2019) Labs/Teams: Active in the Smart Photonic Materials group and collaborates internationally on soft robotics and photonic materials.
Lauri Rautkari is an Associate Professor in the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems at Aalto University, Finland. His research focuses on water interactions in biomaterials, particularly wood, with an emphasis on developing advanced analytical methods for water vapor sorption, creating novel low-sorption materials, and investigating hygroscopicity and fungal decay resistance in modified wood systems. Research Highlights: Gas-phase ozone treatment for improved wettability, thermal and chemical wood modification, hyperspectral imaging for moisture prediction, bioinspired coatings for fungal protection, and interlaboratory studies on sorption data quality. Recent Publications: Key contributions to understanding lignin's role in moisture interactions, acetylation reversibility, and the impact of fungal degradation on heat-treated wood. The trend in his publications reflects a strong focus on hygroscopicity, chemical modification techniques (acetylation, melamine-formaldehyde impregnation), advanced imaging methods (hyperspectral, neutron scattering), and the development of sustainable wood-based materials for construction and acoustic applications. Collaborative interlaboratory efforts dominate his work, ensuring standardized methodologies for moisture analysis.
Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology LUTFinland
Falah Alobaid is a Full Professor (Tenured) at LUT School of Energy Systems, LUT University, specializing in energy systems engineering. He holds a Ph.D. from the Technical University of Darmstadt (2013), recognized with the university's Energy Special Prize (2014), and completed habilitation in Energy Systems (2018) with the title of Privatdozent (2019). His research focuses on power plant technologies, including combustion, gasification, and CO₂ capture, with expertise in modeling, simulation, and pilot-scale experimentation. Education: Ph.D. (Energy Systems), Technical University of Darmstadt, Germany (2013) Habilitation (Energy Systems), Technical University of Darmstadt, Germany (2018) Research interests emphasize sustainable energy solutions: Fluidized bed combustion and gasification CO₂ capture and storage technologies Renewable energy integration Process simulation and dynamic modeling of power systems Thermal energy storage systems His work bridges experimental and computational approaches, with contributions to EU projects such as SCARLET and OptiMaDyn. Publications reflect advancements in fluidized bed systems, CFD-DEM modeling, and operational flexibility of thermal power plants. Recent trends include integrating artificial intelligence for process optimization and exploring novel materials for carbon capture. Awards include the Energy Special Prize (2014) and recognition for his habilitation work. He leads the Institute of Energy Systems and Technology research group, focusing on bioenergy, waste-to-energy systems, and low-carbon technologies. Grants and collaborations span EU-funded initiatives and national projects. Advising focuses on graduate students in energy systems, though no specific names are listed. Laboratory work includes managing the Institute of Energy Systems and Technology, where experimental setups for fluidized beds and solar thermal systems are developed. Future research targets net-negative CO₂ emissions via chemical looping gasification and enhanced renewable energy storage.
