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. Hongli (Julie) Zhu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at Northeastern University's College of Engineering. Her research focuses on sustainable energy storage, multifunctional materials, and advanced manufacturing, with emphasis on developing environmentally friendly biomass-derived materials, all solid-state batteries, and flow batteries. She leads the ZHU Lab at Northeastern University, which is dedicated to creating safer, cheaper, and higher performance energy storage solutions while exploring multifunctional materials derived from nature. Dr. Zhu received her PhD from South China University of Technology and Western Michigan University (2004-2009). She conducted postdoctoral research at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden (2009-2011), focusing on biodegradable and renewable biomaterials from natural wood, followed by additional postdoctoral work at the University of Maryland (2012-2015), where she researched nanocellulose and energy storage. Dr. Zhu's research spans multiple disciplines at the intersection of materials science, energy storage, and sustainable manufacturing. Her work addresses critical challenges in energy storage technology, including developing all solid-state batteries, flow batteries, and high energy density battery systems. She has pioneered research in sustainable biomass-derived materials, particularly investigating cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin for applications in bendable, implantable, and biocompatible electronics. Her lab also focuses on advanced manufacturing techniques, including high-speed roll-to-roll processing for emerging advanced materials and devices. Analysis of Dr. Zhu's publication record reveals a strong focus on next-generation battery technologies, particularly solid-state systems. Her research demonstrates significant contributions to understanding and improving lithium dendrite suppression, electrode architecture optimization, and interface stabilization in solid-state batteries. She has also made substantial advances in sustainable materials derived from natural resources, developing applications for cellulose nanostructured fibers, paper, and aerogel/hydrogel systems. MRS Communications Early Career Distinguished Presenters and JMR Distinguished Invited Speakers (2024) Selected in Stanford University List of Top 2% Scientists Worldwide (2021-2024) College of Engineering Faculty Fellow (2023) Soren Buus Outstanding Research Award (2022) Women in Materials Science, Advanced Materials (2021 and 2022) Women Scientists at the Forefront of Energy Research, ACS Energy Letters (2020) Innovator of the Year 2013, Maryland Jakob Wallenberg Scholarship, Sweden Dr. Zhu has secured significant research funding from various sources, including the National Science Foundation and Department of Energy. Her current projects include "Uncovering the mechano-electro-chemo mechanism of fresh Li in sulfide based all solid-state batteries through operando studies" (NSF), "Enabling Advanced Electrode Architecture through Printing Technique" (DOE), and "Engineering the Metal Sulfide Interface in All Solid State Batteries through Operando Study" (NSF). She collaborates with industry partners including Rogers Corporation and has developed patented technologies related to sustainable materials and energy storage. Dr. Zhu serves as Codirector of Advanced & Intelligent Manufacturing, Editor of Progress in Materials Science, and on the Editorial Advisory Board of Chemical Society Reviews. The ZHU Lab at Northeastern University is a highly interdisciplinary research group that bridges scales from the nanoscopic to macroscopic and system level. The lab's work has led to numerous patents, including "Natural fiber composites as a low-cost plastic alternative" and "Fire-retardant Nanocellulose Aerogel, and Methods of Preparation and Uses Thereof." The group focuses on making energy storage safer, cheaper, and higher performing while exploring multifunctional materials derived from nature, with particular emphasis on applying high-speed roll-to-roll manufacturing to emerging advanced materials and devices.
Tarmo Tamm is a Researcher at the Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, University of Tartu. His work focuses on conducting polymers, soft actuators, and biomaterials , with emphasis on applications in biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, and electrochemistry. He holds a primary affiliation with the University of Tartu and has authored/co-authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles since 2002. His research spans material characterization, actuator design, and polymer electrolyte systems. Key projects include development of biocompatible hydrogels (e.g., sea cucumber-derived materials), soft exoskeletons inspired by spider leg mechanics, and sustainable paper recycling processes . Tamm’s publications highlight interdisciplinary collaboration with institutions globally, addressing topics like ion mobility in PEDOT films, microbial interactions with silicone foams, and encapsulation techniques for biomedical actuators. His work often bridges fundamental material science with practical applications, such as energy storage systems and medical devices. Current research trends emphasize electrochemomechanical systems and bioinspired materials , with growing focus on sustainable materials engineering.
Mark MacLachlan is a distinguished Professor and currently serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of British Columbia (UBC). He leads a vibrant research group in the Department of Chemistry focused on supramolecular materials, with expertise spanning organic, inorganic, and polymer chemistry. His work bridges fundamental molecular design with practical applications in energy, electronics, and sustainable materials. Dr. MacLachlan's research interests center on supramolecular chemistry and materials science, with emphasis on nanomaterials, porous structures, and cellulose-based systems. His group develops novel organic and inorganic molecules and materials with applications in electronics, photonics, catalysis, and environmental technologies. Key research areas include mesoporous materials for optics and catalysis, supramolecular chemistry with macrocycles, structurally interesting molecules, and self-assembled systems including gels. His work often addresses environmental challenges and alternative energy applications such as solar energy conversion and hydrogen fuel cells. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on cellulose nanocrystals and their applications in photonic materials, energy storage, and responsive systems. His work integrates supramolecular chemistry with platinum-based systems for molecular machines and recognition. The research demonstrates interdisciplinary approaches combining chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology to create functional materials with precisely controlled properties. Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (UK) (2016) Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Supramolecular Materials (2015-2029) Elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (FRSC) (2014) Rutherford Memorial Medal (Royal Society of Canada) (2013) Killam Award for Excellence in Graduate Student Mentorship (UBC) (2013) NSERC Steacie Memorial Fellowship (2012-14) Dr. MacLachlan has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, fostering a collaborative research environment that spans multiple disciplines. His group employs a wide range of characterization techniques including electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography. The MacLachlan research group maintains active collaborations with institutions worldwide, including the WPI Nano Life Science Institute at Kanazawa University where he serves as a Visiting Professor. The MacLachlan group operates state-of-the-art facilities for synthesizing and characterizing novel materials, with particular expertise in chiral nematic structures, mesoporous materials, and supramolecular assemblies. Their work on cellulose nanocrystals has led to innovative applications in photonic materials, energy storage devices, and responsive systems.
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.
Peyman Karami is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Laboratory of Biomechanical Orthopedics (LBO) within École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)'s College of Engineering . Research focuses on adhesive hydrogels for cartilage repair and orthopedic applications Investigates biomimetic stimuli (hydrostatic pressure, temperature) in chondrocyte homeostasis Develops ligin-based multifunctional hydrogels for sustainable biomedical applications Expertise in mechanobiology and thermomechanical regulation of tissue-engineered constructs Scientific Contributions: Leads 15+ publications on hydrogel technologies for cartilage regeneration, thermomechanical stimulation effects, and lignin functionalization, including breakthrough work in NIR-light photocuring , malacic trachea repair , and biomimetic temperature gradients . Current Research Trends: Prioritizes injectable adhesive hydrogels , noninvasive tissue repair , and multi-functional biomaterials that couple mechanical and biochemical cues for enhanced regeneration.
Niklas Hedin is a Professor and Head of the Department of Chemistry at Stockholm University . His research group specializes in developing advanced materials for environmental and energy applications, with a particular focus on CO₂ capture technologies , green material synthesis , and biochar-based solutions for pollution mitigation and sustainable resource utilization. Professor at Department of Chemistry Head of Department Stockholm University affiliation The research spans from fundamental molecular spectroscopy studies to industrial-scale applications . Key projects include the use of activated limestone for Baltic Sea eutrophication control, colloidal porous liquids for energy-efficient carbon capture, and engineered biochars for dual environmental remediation and agricultural applications. Recent publications highlight 2025 breakthroughs in aminated cellulose aerogels , graphene oxide composites for direct air capture , and ultrasound-assisted hydrogen peroxide synthesis . These works demonstrate Hedin's commitment to multiscale material engineering combining experimental validation with computational modeling. The group includes several PhD students and postdoctoral researchers working on specialized aspects of material synthesis and environmental application. His team actively collaborates with industrial partners and government agencies to translate laboratory findings into real-world solutions for sustainable chemistry and climate change mitigation .
Prof. Dr. Thomas Koop is a Professor of Physical Chemistry at Bielefeld University, where he leads the Atmospheric and Physical Chemistry research group within the Faculty of Chemistry. He has served as Dean of the Faculty of Chemistry from 2022-2024 and currently serves as Vice Dean (2024-2025). His research focuses on phase transition phenomena, particularly ice nucleation and growth, supercooled liquids, and the formation of amorphous glassy materials. His work has significant implications for understanding atmospheric aerosols, cloud formation mechanisms, and cryobiological processes. The group employs experimental techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry and optical cryo-microscopy, developing specialized equipment for studying phase transitions at micro and nanoscales. Prof. Koop's publication record shows a consistent focus on atmospheric chemistry with increasing exploration of biological ice nucleators, planetary atmospheres (including Venus), and the physical properties of atmospheric aerosols. His most cited work includes 'Water activity as the determinant for homogeneous ice nucleation in aqueous solutions' (Nature, 2000), which established fundamental principles in the field. 2024-2025: Vice Dean of Faculty of Chemistry 2022-2024: Dean of Faculty of Chemistry 2001-2022: Co-founder and Executive Editor of Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics Since 2004: Coordinator of Graduate School of Chemistry and Biochemistry Prof. Koop has mentored numerous students and postdoctoral researchers, contributing significantly to the development of the next generation of atmospheric scientists. His research has been supported by various funding agencies and has led to collaborations with institutions worldwide, from MIT and UC Berkeley to research centers in Switzerland and Israel.
Jonathan Cullen is Professor of Sustainable Engineering at the University of Cambridge and President of Fitzwilliam College, specializing in resource efficiency and decarbonization through top-down analysis of industrial material and energy systems. His work bridges academic research with industry applications across energy-intensive sectors. Education: Bachelor's in Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Canterbury, New Zealand MPhil in Engineering for Sustainable Development, University of Cambridge PhD in Engineering Fundamentals of Energy Efficiency, University of Cambridge His research develops metrics for quantifying energy and material consequences of production systems, focusing on circular economy implementation, minimum energy requirements, and zero-carbon transition pathways. Key applications target cement, steel, plastics, and petrochemicals where he pioneers methods like exergetic analysis and material flow accounting to expose carbon lock-ins and circularity opportunities. Recent publications reveal three dominant trends: (1) Frameworks for theoretical minimum energy requirements across industrial processes, (2) Geopolitical analysis of critical mineral flows and ownership structures, and (3) Circular economy metrics for plastics and construction materials. These consistently employ system-scale modeling validated through industry partnerships. Research Funding: Lead: C-THRU ($4M, VKRF) - carbon clarity in petrochemical supply chains Co-I: UK FIRES (£5.2M, EPSRC) - industrial decarbonization program Co-I: CirPlas (£1.25M, UKRI) - plastic waste elimination 7+ projects (EPSRC, Innovate UK, Horizon 2020) Academic Leadership: Teaching: Energy Systems and Policy (MPhil in Energy Technologies) Undergraduate supervision in Materials/Mathematics Graduate Tutor at Fitzwilliam College IPCC AR6 Lead Author (Industry Chapter) He directs the Resource Efficiency Collective, which develops open-source tools like Mat-dp for material demand projections and Starter Data Kits for energy planning. Current work focuses on scaling circular business models for construction retrofitting and quantifying geopolitical risks in critical mineral supply chains.
Jooyeoun Jung is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Food Science & Technology at Oregon State University. She holds affiliations with the university's Food Science and Techno Headquarters and has been part of the OSU Main Campus since 2016. Her career includes roles as a Senior Researcher and Assistant Professor of Practice at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2018-2021) before returning to Oregon State in 2022. Educated at Oregon State University with a Ph.D. in Food Science & Technology, her research focuses on sustainable food processing, value-added food product development, and innovative food packaging solutions. Key areas include edible coatings using nanocellulose, antimicrobial packaging technologies, and utilization of agricultural byproducts for eco-friendly materials. Her work emphasizes enhancing food shelf-life through advanced coating technologies, improving packaging functionality, and addressing challenges in food preservation such as mold control, lipid oxidation, and microbial inhibition. She has pioneered studies on hazelnut processing, blueberry anthocyanin stabilization, and fruit pomace valorization. Jung teaches courses like Introduction to Sustainable Food Processing (FST327) and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects involving food safety, material science, and agricultural engineering. Her research has led to innovations in molded pulp packaging, radiofrequency pasteurization, and functional food film development. Professional affiliations include the Institute of Food Technologists, reflecting her commitment to advancing food science through industry collaboration and academic rigor.
Jiayin Yuan is a Professor of Materials Chemistry at Stockholm University, Department of Chemistry. He leads the Jiayin Yuan Research Group, focusing on functional polymers and carbons for environmental and energy applications. His work emphasizes sustainable materials, including porous polymers, carbon membranes, and energy storage systems. He holds an ERC Consolidator Grant (2022) and previously an ERC Starting Grant (2014), and directs the Stockholm Material Hub. His research spans CO2 capture, catalysis, and nanomaterials for renewable energy. He has held academic positions at Clarkson University (USA) and the Max Planck Institute (Germany), with a PhD from Germany (2009). Education: Bachelor's in Chemistry, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (2002) Master's in Chemistry, Germany (2004) PhD in Chemistry, Germany (2009) Research Interests: Synthesis of functional polymers, carbon materials, and their applications in environmental sustainability and energy. Current projects include CO2 capture via porous liquids, biomass-derived fertilizers, and bijel membranes for energy storage. Grants & Awards: ERC Consolidator Grant (2022) ERC Starting Grant (2014) Wallenberg Academy Fellow (2018) Advising & Labs: Supervises multiple PhD students and postdocs. His group collaborates on advanced materials for energy and environmental challenges. The Stockholm Material Hub (stockholmmaterial.com) fosters interdisciplinary research in materials science.
Dr. Richard Venditti is the Elis-Signe Olsson Professor of Pulp and Paper Science and Technology at North Carolina State University's Department of Forest Biomaterials, College of Natural Resources. He specializes in sustainable bioproducts, recycling technologies, and environmental life cycle analysis (LCA). His research focuses on transforming renewable plant-based resources into eco-friendly materials, addressing challenges like microfiber pollution and decarbonization in the paper industry. Education: PhD in Chemical Engineering, Princeton University (1994) B.S. in Pulp and Paper Technology and Chemical Engineering, NC State University (1988) Research Interests: Biodegradation of materials, fiber processing innovations, LCA of bioproducts, and upcycling waste into high-value products. Dr. Venditti leads high-impact projects, including a USDA-funded initiative to educate diverse students in bioproduct industries and a multi-organization study on microplastic fate in the environment. He has authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications and holds patents in sustainable technologies. Grants & Funding: Key projects include a $2.75M USDA program, a $2.99M NSF grant for eco-manufacturing of soft electronics, and a $1.64M DOE project on AI-driven municipal waste analysis. Awards & Recognition: TAPPI Fellow (2012), Fulbright Specialist (2009), and ACAAGS Advocacy Award (2010) for promoting diversity in graduate education. He directs the Pulp and Paper Workshop (co-sponsored by TAPPI) and teaches courses like Environmental LCA and Unit Operations. His lab explores innovations in dewatering, biomass valorization, and textile waste upcycling.
Miguel Ângelo Cerqueira is a Research Fellow at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) in Braga, Portugal. He holds a PhD in Biological Engineering from the University of Minho (2010) and served as an Assistant Professor there from 2011 to 2016. His research focuses on biopolymers, edible films, nanotechnology, and sustainable food packaging. Cerqueira has led numerous projects funded by agencies like FCT and Horizon 2020, addressing topics such as antimicrobial coatings, functional food delivery systems, and circular economy materials. Education: PhD in Biological Engineering, University of Minho (2006–2010) Bachelor's Degree in Biological Engineering, University of Minho (2000–2005) Research interests span biodegradable packaging materials, nanostructured systems for food applications, and valorization of agro-industrial byproducts. His work combines material science with food technology to develop eco-friendly solutions, such as edible coatings, oleogels, and active packaging. Recent trends in his publications focus on antimicrobial nanocomposites, recyclable food packaging, and functional foods enriched with bioactives like resveratrol and β-carotene. Awards: Best PhD Thesis Award (2011), University of Minho Young Scientist Award (2014), IUFoST World Congress Advising and Grants: Currently supervising 3 MSc and 2 PhD students. Has co-supervised 10 students and led over 30 funded projects. His work includes collaborations with industry partners like 2BNanoFood and Improveat, focusing on innovations like bioplastic packaging and functionalized food systems. Labs/Teams: Active in multidisciplinary teams such as the European Network for Gastrointestinal Health Research (ENGIHR) and COST Actions on food packaging and nanofiber composites. His lab develops nanosensors for food quality assessment and smart packaging materials with self-degradability.
Dr. Sumsun Naher is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Engineering at City, University of London , where she has worked since 2013. Previously, she served as Lecturer and Research Development Officer at Dublin City University (2006–2013) and as Scientific Officer at Bangladesh Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (1998–2000). Her academic career includes a Post Graduate Diploma in Academic Practice from City, University of London. PhD , School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, Dublin City University MSc , Materials & Metallurgical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology BSc , Materials & Metallurgical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology Her research focuses on semi-solid processing , laser processing , simulation & modelling of materials technologies , and materials characterisation . Recent work explores cellulose nanofiber-based water filters for antibiotic removal and phase change materials in geothermal energy systems. Key article trends reveal expertise in: Laser Surface Modification of metals and composites Advanced Casting Methodologies and semi-solid metal forming Nanoparticle Reinforcement in metal matrix composites Thermal Modelling for energy systems Sustainable Material Solutions in water treatment and energy Computational Materials Science via finite element analysis Naher has received the DCU Invent Commercialisation Award (2011) and holds fellowships from IMechE , Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining , and Advance Higher Education Authority . She actively reviews for funding bodies and examines PhD theses internationally. As an organiser of the ESAFORM Conference and co-organiser of its Additive Manufacturing symposium since 2017, she contributes to academic leadership. Her professional roles include Board of Directors for the European Association of Materials Forming and participation in EU COST Action projects (Thixoforming, Thixosteel, Nanostructured Materials).
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.
