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)
Dr. Samir H. Mushrif is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Alberta . Prior to this role, he served as faculty at the School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore . He holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from McGill University and completed postdoctoral research at the University of Delaware, USA . Education : PhD (Chemical Engineering, McGill University), Postdoc (University of Delaware) His research focuses on computational catalysis , molecular modeling , and reaction engineering for biomass conversion and CO2 reduction . He develops novel catalysts, solvents, and reactor systems using integrated quantum mechanical and classical molecular simulations , synergized with experimental data to enable sustainable energy and chemical production . Recent publications highlight trends in condensed phase chemistry for biomass reactions, machine learning applications in solvent configuration prediction, and mechanistic studies of lignin-carbohydrate complex deconstruction. His work bridges methane activation on metal oxides, hydrodeoxygenation of bio-oil compounds, and polymerization pathways in lignin structures. Scientific Awards include: NSERC Doctoral and Post-doctoral Fellowships Discovery International Award 2017 (Australian Research Council) NANYANG EDUCATION AWARD 2016 (Singapore) SCBE Teaching Excellence Awards (Silver 2015, Gold 2016) Bharat Gaurav (Pride of India) Award 2014 Dr. Mushrif's NSERC Discovery Grant (2018), CFI John R. Evans Leaders Fund Grant (2022), and AcRF Tier-2 Grant (Singapore, 2015) have advanced his work. Current PhD and Master's students include José Carlos Velasco Calderón , Arul Mozhi Devan Padmanathan , and Sagar Bathla , among others. The CARES Lab (Catalysis Research for Sustainability) under his leadership combines ab initio molecular dynamics , machine learning potentials , and Density Functional Theory to design materials for renewable energy . Collaborations span institutions in France , Canada , India , and the UK .
Jonathan Conway is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Princeton University and an associated faculty member of the High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI). He leads the Conway Lab, which focuses on engineering plant-microbe interactions for applications in bioagriculture, bioenergy, and biochemical industries. Education: B.S. Chemical Engineering, University of Notre Dame (2011) M.S. Chemical Engineering, North Carolina State University (2013) Ph.D. Chemical Engineering, North Carolina State University (2017) Postdoctoral Fellow, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill & Howard Hughes Medical Institute (2017-2021) Research Interests: The Conway Lab develops genetic engineering approaches for non-model bacteria at plant-microbe interfaces. Key research areas include: chemical signaling between plants and microbes, microbiome impacts on plant immunity, environmental stress responses in agricultural systems, and enzymatic degradation of lignocellulosic biomass using thermophilic bacteria. The lab employs bacterial genetics, systems biology, and biomolecular engineering to create technologies for sustainable bioindustries. Publication Trends: Recent work demonstrates strong emphasis on molecular mechanisms of plant-microbe communication (2020-2024), enzyme characterization in biomass degradation (2024-2025), and development of synthetic microbial communities for climate resilience (2024). Earlier research focused on extremophile enzymology and metabolic engineering (2012-2019). Student Advising: Currently mentors 4 graduate students and 8 undergraduates. Alumni include 9 former advisees who graduated between 2022-2024. The lab actively recruits students through Princeton's Chemical Engineering graduate program and undergraduate research initiatives. Laboratory: The Conway Lab develops microfluidic systems for root microbiome studies and genetic tools for engineering plant-associated bacteria. Current projects include designing thermophilic microbial consortia for consolidated bioprocessing and characterizing bacterial immune evasion strategies.
Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Lothar Elling is a University Professor and director at the Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Germany. His research focuses on biomaterials, glycoengineering, and enzymatic synthesis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. Institution: RWTH Aachen University Research Unit: Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering Academic Rank: Full Professor Prof. Elling's research interests include: Glycoengineering of biomaterials Enzymatic synthesis of glycans Glycosyltransferase immobilization Glycan-protein interactions Biocatalytic cascade reactions Biomedical applications of glycomaterials His recent publications demonstrate strong expertise in: - Automated enzymatic glycan synthesis - Multi-enzyme cascade systems for nucleotide sugar production - Glycosyltransferase engineering - Galectin-targeted glycomaterials - Microgel-based biosensors
Subash Jonnalagadda, Ph.D., is a Professor and Department Head of Chemistry & Biochemistry at Rowan University's College of Science & Mathematics, also affiliated with the Biological & Biomedical Sciences program. He holds a B.S. from Pondicherry University, M.S. from University of Hyderabad, and Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Purdue University, with postdoctoral training at University of Pennsylvania and University of Minnesota. Recipient of Rowan University's Wall of Fame Teaching Award (2013, 2016) Eli Lilly International Graduate Scholar (2000-2005) Research focuses on: Medicinal Chemistry: Developing boron-based small molecules (e.g., benzoboroxoles) and betulinic acid derivatives as anti-cancer agents Biomass Valorization: Converting cellulose into chemicals like hydroxymethylfurfural for bio-based polymers Publications emphasize anti-cancer drug design, nanocarrier systems, and enzyme inhibition strategies. Advised over 50 graduate/undergraduate students, many progressing to academic and pharmaceutical careers. Collaborates with Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine on Alzheimer's drug candidates.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Selin Kara is a Professor at the Institute of Technical Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Leibniz University Hannover. She leads research in biocatalysis and bioprocessing, with a focus on sustainable and innovative enzyme-based technologies. Her leadership roles include Spokesperson of the Curriculum and Teaching Committee for Life Science and Chairperson of the Admissions Board for MSc Life Science. Full Name: Selin Kara Institution: Leibniz University Hannover Faculty: Faculty of Natural Sciences Department: Institute of Technical Chemistry Academic Rank: Professor Email: selin.kara@iftc.uni-hannover.de Her research interests center on biocatalysis and bioprocessing , particularly in redox biocatalysis , enzyme immobilization , non-conventional media such as deep eutectic solvents, biocatalytic cascades , and flow biocatalysis . She explores enzyme kinetics and process engineering to enhance efficiency and sustainability in chemical synthesis. Her group develops novel reactor systems and materials, including hydrogels and 3D-printed microfluidics, for advanced biocatalytic applications. She emphasizes green chemistry principles, aiming to replace traditional chemical processes with eco-friendly enzymatic alternatives. The most recent publications (2024–2025) demonstrate a strong trend in deep eutectic solvents , fusion enzymes , immobilization techniques , and sustainable synthesis of bio-based chemicals . Her work integrates experimental and computational methods to understand enzyme behavior and optimize reaction systems. Key themes include process intensification, solvent engineering, and industrial scalability, with applications in pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and sustainable materials. She holds leadership positions in academic governance, including: Spokesperson, Curriculum and Teaching Committee, Life Science (BSc/MSc) Chairperson, Admissions Board for MSc Life Science Executive Board Member, Institute of Technical Chemistry Deputy Representative for Professors in Faculty Council and Examination Boards Her research is highly collaborative, involving interdisciplinary teams and international partners, and is consistently published in high-impact journals such as Green Chemistry , ACS Catalysis , and ChemSusChem . While specific scientific awards and student advisees are not listed in the provided text, her extensive publication record and leadership roles reflect significant academic contributions.
Fabian Pfrengle is a full Professor of Organic Chemistry at the Institute of Organic Chemistry , Department of Natural Sciences and Sustainable Resources , University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU). He previously led research groups at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces (2013-2020) and worked at The Scripps Research Institute (2010-2013). Research Focus: His work bridges carbohydrate chemistry and plant biology , specializing in plant cell wall glycans and glycosyltransferases . He develops synthetic glycan arrays for enzyme characterization and investigates immune response triggering mechanisms in plants through oligosaccharide fragments . His projects include automated polysaccharide synthesis and liposome-based immune tolerance applications. Publication Trends: His 15 most recent articles emphasize chemical synthesis of sugar nucleotides , plant glycan arrays , and enzyme specificity analysis , reflecting his focus on carbohydrate engineering and plant immunity . Key subfields include UDP-sugar derivatization , Xylan structure-function relationships , and Glycosyltransferase profiling . Grants & Projects: Currently leads 5 major projects including Automated Algal Polysaccharide Synthesis (EU-funded, 2023-2028) and Synthetic Glycan Ligands for Plant Immune Receptors (FWF-funded, 2022-2026). His research also explores thrombocyte biology and Rhamnogalacturonan-II fragments with support from FWF and City of Vienna . Community Service: Serves on editorial boards ( Monatshefte für Chemie , 2021-present) and as reviewer for 12 journals including JACS Au , Nature Communications , and Angewandte Chemie . Member of professional societies: Gesellschaft Österreichischer Chemiker (2020), Deutscher Hochschulverband (2019), and Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (2008).
Anne Berit C. Samuelsen serves as Associate Professor at the Department of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, where she also holds the position of Head of Education. Her academic foundation includes a Cand.pharm. degree and Dr.scient. doctorate, establishing her expertise in pharmaceutical sciences. Her research centers on polysaccharides from natural sources—particularly higher plants, cereals, and fungi (Basidiomycota)—with specialized focus on β-glucans. Key interests include carbohydrate chemistry, pharmacognosy, and the development of biopolymer-based pharmaceutical applications. Her work bridges fundamental structural characterization with practical drug delivery solutions, notably through liposome coating technologies and immunomodulatory compound development. Recent publications reveal a strong trajectory in fungal polysaccharide research, particularly with Pleurotus eryngii and Albatrellus ovinus species. Her team employs advanced techniques like diffusion-ordered NMR spectroscopy to analyze polysaccharide structures while investigating biological activities related to immune receptor binding (Dectin-1, Toll-like receptors) and therapeutic applications. This work demonstrates consistent output in high-impact journals including Carbohydrate Polymers and ACS Applied Bio Materials . She actively contributes to academic instruction through courses such as FARM1150 (Pharmaceutically Oriented Biochemistry), FARM3100 (Pharmacognosy), and FARM5200 (Use of Biopolymers in Pharmaceuticals). Her leadership extends to the Bioactive Natural Substances and Health Effects (BioNatH) research group and the Glyconor Consortium, where she investigates natural product applications for health improvement.
Bert F. Sels is a Full Professor at KU Leuven (Catholic University Leuven) in the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Molecular and Microbiological Sciences, where he founded and heads the Center for Sustainable Catalysis and Engineering (CSCE). He is also a Visiting Professor at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Guangzhou and co-founder of the spin-off company Zeopore. Previously, he directed the Centre for Surface Chemistry and Catalysis (COK) from 2016-2019 and served as Head of the Division Bio-refinery and Sustainable Chemistry (2015). He obtained his Ph.D. in 2000 from KU Leuven under Professor Pierre Jacobs, specializing in heterogeneous oxidation catalysis. His research focuses on heterogeneous catalysis for sustainable industrial processes, with expertise spanning: Biorefinery and biofactory systems for chemical production Design of hierarchically structured zeolites and carbon materials Spectroscopic characterization of catalytic active sites Methane activation and small molecule kinetics Renewable chemistry and biomass valorization His group has published 350+ papers (h-index 88) and holds 30 patents. Publications demonstrate strong focus on catalytic biomass conversion, zeolite engineering, and sustainable fuel production, with recent work emphasizing lignin valorization, carbohydrate upgrading, and low-carbon chemical synthesis. Key trends include hierarchical catalyst design and integrated biorefinery processes. Awards and Honors: Green Chemistry Award (2015) INEOS Research Award (2019) European Academy of Sciences and Arts Membership (2018) DSM Chemistry Award (2001) TOTAL Research Award (2013) UMICORE Research Award (2012) First Clean Tech Challenge (2009) He leads the CSCE research group and co-founded the European Research Institute of Catalysis (ERIC). As former co-chair of the International Zeolite Association's Catalysis Commission and associate editor of ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, he maintains extensive collaborative networks.
Dr. Michael Philben is an Associate Professor of Chemistry and Geological and Environmental Science at Hope College, where he joined in 2019 after postdoctoral positions at Memorial University (Canada) and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. His research focuses on climate-carbon cycle feedbacks in vulnerable ecosystems, particularly peatlands and Arctic tundra. His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Marine Science from the University of South Carolina (2014) and a B.A. in Earth and Planetary Science from Northwestern University (2010). At Hope College, he teaches Environmental Science courses and contributes to the Day1: Watershed program. Philben's research centers on carbon and nitrogen cycling in ecosystems containing vast organic carbon stocks. He leads an NSF CAREER-funded project investigating Michigan peat bogs as natural laboratories for climate change impacts, using a north-south transect from Portage to Newberry as a 'space-for-time' experiment. His work examines methane emissions, nitrogen availability, and net carbon balance under warming conditions, with particular attention to Sphagnum-dominated peatlands at the southern edge of their climate range. His 15 most recent publications (2020-2024) reveal a strong focus on peatland biogeochemistry, with increasing emphasis on methane dynamics, nitrogen cycling, and the role of specific biochemical compounds like sphagnan. The research combines field measurements across climate gradients with laboratory experiments, often involving Hope College students in all project phases. NSF CAREER Award for peatland climate research Philben actively mentors undergraduate researchers through the Philben Research Group, which investigates how warming impacts carbon cycling in peatlands. His projects involve interdisciplinary work spanning analytical chemistry, geology, and ecology. The group maintains a network of seven Michigan peat bog field sites and collaborates on international research, including Arctic studies in Alaska and Canada. His laboratory focuses on using analytical chemistry tools to predict climate-carbon cycle feedbacks, with particular attention to southern Michigan peatlands as sentinels for larger northern peatland complexes. The research group employs techniques including greenhouse gas flux measurements, radiometric dating of peat cores, and analysis of organic matter composition.
Koenraad Muylaert is a Full Professor at the Faculty of Science, KU Leuven, and head of the Biology department at KU Leuven Kulak. His research focuses on microalgae ecology and phytoplankton physiology , with applications in eutrophication studies , wastewater treatment , and biofuel production . Based in Kortrijk, Belgium, he works with international teams in Ecuador, Qatar, and Belgium. Current projects on mountain lake eutrophication and urban aquatic systems Specializes in nano-material flocculation and omega-3 fatty acid production from microalgae Research Trends from his recent articles show emphasis on: Microalgae harvesting innovations (cellulose nanocrystals, PDMAEMA polymers) Comparative processing techniques (DAF vs sedimentation, drying methods) Biotechnological applications in flavor chemistry and microbiome interactions Laboratory operates at KU Leuven's Kortrijk campus, with strong collaborations in environmental engineering and food science . His work bridges fundamental ecological research with industrial biotechnology for sustainable solutions.
Dr. Martin Fascione is a Reader in Chemistry at the University of York. He leads research at the interface of chemistry and biology, focusing on chemical glycobiology and glycomedicine. His work employs synthetic chemistry, enzymology, and bioconjugation to study carbohydrate roles in disease and develop therapeutic tools. Research interests include the chemical glycobiology of nonulosonic/sialic acids, synthetic and enzymatic carbohydrate chemistry, and protein bioconjugation. His group investigates bacterial pathogen recognition, tumor metastasis, and immunological responses mediated by glycans. Recent publications demonstrate a focus on bacterial glycans, enzyme mechanisms, glycoconjugate therapeutics, and diagnostic tools. Trends include structural enzymology, chemoenzymatic synthesis, glycan-based sensors, and bioorthogonal chemistry applications. Awards: ERC Consolidator Grant (2022) Marie Curie International Outgoing Fellowship (2012-2014) Dr. Fascione directs an interdisciplinary lab collaborating with structural biologists and clinicians. His ERC grant supports research on pseudaminic acid sugars in infectious diseases.
Roland Ludwig is an Associate Professor at the Institute of Food Technology, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). He is also the current Senate Chairman at BOKU, demonstrating strong institutional leadership. His research is centered on enzyme technology, biocatalysis, biosensors, and electrochemistry, with a particular focus on oxidoreductases such as cellobiose dehydrogenase (CDH) and lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs), which are crucial in biomass degradation and bioenergy applications. His research interests span food biotechnology, enzyme technology, biocatalysis, biosensors, process engineering, electrochemistry, and nanobiotechnology. He investigates the molecular mechanisms of electron transfer in redox enzymes, their application in biosensors and biofuel cells, and their role in the depolymerization of lignocellulosic biomass. His work integrates biochemical, electrochemical, and structural approaches to understand and engineer enzyme function. The recent publication trends highlight a strong focus on LPMOs and CDHs, with studies on their kinetics, substrate specificity, domain dynamics, electron transfer mechanisms, and engineering for improved stability and activity. These works frequently appear in high-impact journals such as ACS Catalysis and Bioelectrochemistry, reflecting the significance and innovation of his research in biocatalysis and bioelectrochemistry. International DropSens Award for Applied Electroanalytical Chemistry Medal of Honour, Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb RIZ Genius Award for Innovative Sensor Technology Austrian APART Fellowship INiTS Award 2007 (Life Science) Förderpreis der Österreichischen Gesellschaft für Biotechnologie Roland Ludwig actively supervises students and leads multiple externally funded research projects from FWF and EU, including grants focused on electron transfer in oxidoreductases and the kinetic analysis of oxidative biomass-degrading enzymes. He collaborates with international research groups and is a frequent speaker at major scientific conferences. His research contributes to sustainable bioprocesses, green chemistry, and the development of novel bio-based technologies. He is involved in research teams and collaborative projects such as the FWF-funded Doktoratskolleg "Biomolecular Technology of Proteins" and participates in interdisciplinary initiatives bridging food technology, biotechnology, and materials science. His lab focuses on enzyme characterization, protein engineering, and the development of bioelectrochemical devices.
Pamela Pollet is a faculty member at the Georgia Institute of Technology, specializing in the Department of Chemistry. Her academic work focuses on green chemistry, sustainable processes, chemical education, and flow chemistry. BSc : University of Rouen, France (1994) PhD : Chemistry, University of Rouen, France (2011) Post-doctoral Fellow : University of Bradford, UK (1998); Georgia Institute of Technology, USA (1999) H.D.R : Chemistry, University of Rouen, France (2011) Pollet’s research spans chemical safety, sustainable chemistry, catalysis, and smart solvents. She emphasizes green chemistry & sustainability, integrating undergraduate research into her projects. Her work also explores continuous flow technology for scalable chemical processes and education-focused innovations, including sustainability practices and equity in chemical sciences. Her recent publications highlight trends in chemical education (e.g., active learning in organic chemistry), green chemistry (e.g., CO2-responsive materials), and flow chemistry (e.g., continuous flow polymerization and catalytic reactions). These works reflect interdisciplinary collaboration, industry partnerships, and sustainable methodologies. Scientific Awards: GaTech Safety Ambassador Award, 2017 Vasser-Wooley Excellence in Teaching Award, 2017 Geoffrey G. Eichholz Faculty Teaching Award, 2020 University System of Georgia Chancellor Learning Scholar, 2021 Student Recognition of Excellence in Teaching CIOS Honor Roll, 2022–2024 Class of 1934 Outstanding Innovative Use of Education Technology Award, 2024 Pollet actively contributes to chemical education and laboratory safety , with grants and partnerships focused on academic-industry collaborations (e.g., the Partners in Lab Safety initiative) and educational technology integration.
Dr. Susanne Striegler is a Professor of Organic Chemistry in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Arkansas, College of Arts & Sciences. Her research focuses on designing glycosidase inhibitors, developing microgel/nanogel catalysts, and exploring antimicrobial agents through interdisciplinary approaches combining synthesis, catalysis, biochemistry, material science, and computational methods. Education: Habilitation, Dr. rer. nat., Diplom, Vordiplom (Ulm, Germany) Her recent work demonstrates how surfactant properties, secondary coordination spheres, and matrix effects enhance microgel/nanogel catalytic performance for carbohydrate transformations. She has pioneered microgels as antimicrobial agents, with notable publications in ACS Catalysis and ACS Applied Bio Materials . Scientific accolades include the NSF CAREER Award (2008), Arkansas Biosciences Institute New Investigator of the Year (2016), and multiple Fulbright College Master Researcher/Teacher Awards (2018, 2024). Her lab has secured grants such as Chancellor's Commercialization Grants (2013, 2019, 2020) and NSF funding (2019). Susanne mentors students like Lidia, Babloo, and Carlie, who have received honors including SURF Grants (Lauren, Kristin), Fellowships (Sara), and STEM Immersion Day recognition. Her research team actively explores enzyme mechanisms and material design, with ongoing projects supported by recent funding.
