Associate Professor Arnold Lining Ju is a biomedical engineer at the University of Sydney's School of Biomedical Engineering, affiliated with multiple institutes including the Heart Research Institute and Sydney Nano Institute. He holds academic positions in both the Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Medicine & Health. Education: BSc from Peking University, PhD from Georgia Tech and Emory University (USA). Honors include Snow Fellowship, Heart Foundation Future Leader Fellowship, and multiple awards for cardiovascular research innovation. Research focuses on mechanobiology and biomechanics of thrombosis, developing microfluidic devices and organ-on-chip systems. Key projects include AI-driven single-cell nanotools, 3D biofabrication, and anti-thrombotic peptide design. Leads interdisciplinary teams and collaborates internationally with institutions like Harvard and University of Texas. Teaching roles include coordinating advanced cellular biomechanics courses and supervising PhD/Masters students in biomedical engineering and physiology. Over 50 peer-reviewed publications, with contributions to Nature Materials, Nature Communications, and other top journals.
Scott L. Diamond is the Arthur E. Humphrey Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Bioengineering at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. He serves as Director of the Penn Center for Molecular Discovery, Director of the Penn Biotechnology Masters Program (one of the largest in the country with over 130 students), and Associate Director of the Institute for Medicine and Engineering (IME). His laboratory is located in the Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories at 3340 Smith Walk, 1020 Vagelos Research Laboratories, Philadelphia, PA. Diamond's research spans multiple interconnected fields in blood biology and biotechnology. His work focuses on mechanobiology, thrombolysis, coagulation, bioadhesion, gene therapy, drug/device development, proteomics, drug discovery, systems biology, and microfluidics. His laboratory has developed numerous specialized microfluidic devices for studying blood clotting under various flow conditions, including 8-channel devices for high-throughput clotting assays, side-view devices for clot structure analysis, stenosis devices for high shear clotting assays, and impingement-post devices for studying von Willebrand factor fibers. Diamond's research group has pioneered approaches to model and predict blood function using systems biology principles. His team has developed computational models that integrate reaction-transport phenomena with platelet signaling networks to predict thrombus formation under flow. These models have enabled the development of 'virtual blood' computer simulations that can predict the effectiveness of anticoagulation drugs for individual patients, contributing significantly to personalized medicine approaches in hemostasis and thrombosis. His extensive publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on understanding the fundamental mechanisms of blood clot formation and dissolution. Recent work has emphasized microfluidic approaches for point-of-care diagnostics, patient-specific modeling of platelet function, and the development of novel therapeutic strategies for thrombotic disorders. His research bridges engineering principles with clinical hematology to address significant challenges in cardiovascular medicine. NSF National Young Investigator Award NIH FIRST Award American Heart Association Established Investigator Award AIChE Allan P. Colburn Award George Heilmeier Excellence in Research Award Elected Fellow of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) Diamond has secured significant research funding, including a $2.8 million NIH grant for 'Blood Systems Biology' and a $9.5 million NIH grant for the Penn Center for Molecular Discovery. His laboratory has developed numerous microfluidic devices for blood analysis and has collaborated extensively with clinicians and industry partners. Diamond has served on advisory committees for NSF, NIH, AHA, and NASA, and has consulted extensively for industry and government. With over 180 publications and patents, his work has significantly advanced the understanding of blood clotting mechanisms and the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for thrombotic disorders.
Antti Poso is a Professor of Drug Design at the University of Eastern Finland (Kuopio), affiliated with the School of Pharmacy under the Faculty of Health Sciences. His research focuses on computer-aided molecular design, particularly targeting anti-cancer drugs and anti-microbials. Key projects include the EDCMET project (2019–2024) and the GeneCellNano Flagship (2020–2028). He leads the Molecular Modeling and Drug Design Research Group, specializing in QSAR analysis, kinase inhibition profiling, and systems-level drug response modeling. Recent work includes studies on SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors, endocrine disruptors, and bacterial pathogenesis. His findings bridge chemical structure with biological outcomes, leveraging computational tools like CCA and molecular dynamics simulations. Collaborations span medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and systems biology, contributing to both academic and applied drug discovery efforts. Education: Not explicitly stated in texts; assumed to hold advanced degrees in pharmacy or chemistry. Research Themes: Drug design, molecular modeling, QSAR, computational biology, and anti-infective agents. Key Contributions: Over 150+ publications, including influential works on chemoinformatics-driven drug response analysis and structure-based inhibitor design. Publications highlight advancements in kinase inhibitors, anti-microbial strategies, and viral hijacking mechanisms. His work emphasizes translating computational insights into therapeutic solutions for cancer, infectious diseases, and metabolic disorders.
Associate Professor Natalie Courtman-Kalms is a specialist veterinary clinical pathologist at the Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney. Her expertise spans clinical pathology research across domestic animals, wildlife, and production species, with a focus on feline, canine, and avian health. She holds qualifications including BVSc, MANZCVS, MVS GCUT, and Dip ACVP. Research interests include diagnostic methodologies in hematology, coagulation studies, and oncological pathology in avian species. She leads the Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services (VPDS) and has secured grants such as the 2023 PARR clonality assay project investigating lymphoma and inflammatory bowel disease in cats. Her work bridges clinical practice and research, contributing to improved diagnostic approaches in veterinary medicine. She has published on analytical errors in veterinary diagnostics, species-specific biomarkers, and avian neoplasms.
David Latulippe is a Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at McMaster University. He joined McMaster in 2012 after postdoctoral work at Cornell University and a PhD at Penn State University, focusing on membrane filtration for DNA purification. His industrial experience includes roles at ZENON Environmental (now GE Water) in hollow-fiber membrane design for water treatment. Research interests include Membrane science and technology Bioprocessing of therapeutic viruses Microscale systems for biological applications Environmental engineering solutions for water treatment Current projects involve collaborations with industry partners like Ceapro and Aevitas, and the development of a biomanufacturing automation lab with Sartorius. Recent publications highlight advancements in Nanofiltration and microfiltration for viral vectors Conductive membranes for electrochemical applications Microfluidic systems for DNA analysis Environmental monitoring of biocides and microplastics Scientific recognition includes the Young Membrane Scientist Award (2014). Teaching activities focus on Fluid Mechanics (CHEMENG 2O04) and Industrial Separation Processes (CHEMENG 4M03).
Anne-Mette Hvas is Professor and Dean at the Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Denmark, where she leads academic and administrative initiatives in health sciences. Her role places her at the forefront of institutional strategy, research development, and interdisciplinary collaboration within clinical and translational medicine. Research Interests: Her work spans hematology, coagulation, platelet biology, neonatal hemostasis, and endocrinology. She investigates thrombotic and bleeding disorders in clinical contexts such as nephrotic syndrome, pregnancy, cancer surgery, and stroke. Her research integrates physiological, pharmacological, and clinical perspectives to improve patient outcomes. The recent publications reflect a strong focus on thrombin generation, platelet reactivity, endothelial dysfunction, and red blood cell behavior in acute and chronic conditions. These studies often involve multicenter collaborations and contribute to evidence-based practices in thromboprophylaxis, surgical safety, and stroke management. Scientific Contributions: Active research in hemostasis and thrombosis across diverse patient populations Leadership in clinical studies on anticoagulation, HIPEC, and neonatal platelet function Investigations into hormonal and cardiovascular aspects of Turner syndrome Advising and Grants: While specific advisees are not listed, her leadership in multiple funded research projects suggests mentorship of junior researchers and clinicians. She has led projects on platelet function in preterm neonates and coagulation in surgical oncology, indicating grant acquisition and team coordination capabilities. Labs and Teams: Though specific lab names are not mentioned, her work implies collaboration with clinical research teams in hematology, neonatology, oncology, and obstetrics at Aarhus University Hospital and affiliated centers.
Professor Muttucumaru Sivakumar is a faculty member at the University of Wollongong (UOW), holding the rank of Professor and serving as Academic Program Director for Environmental Engineering (ENVE) within the School of Civil, Mining, Environmental and Architectural Engineering. He has been with UOW since 1984, progressing through roles such as Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, and Associate Professor before becoming a full Professor in 2025. His academic career includes visiting positions at institutions worldwide, including the University of Minnesota, University of Heidelberg, and Indian Institutes of Technology. Education: He earned a BSc Eng from the University of Peradeniya (Sri Lanka, 1970–1974), an MEng from the Asian Institute of Technology (Thailand, 1976), and a PhD from the University of Newcastle (Australia, 1977–1981). Research Interests: His work focuses on water quality modeling of coastal reservoirs, sediment transport, membrane distillation for wastewater treatment, and environmental hydraulics. Current projects include coastal reservoir development for Jakarta, solar-powered desalination, and wastewater-based epidemiology for pathogen monitoring. Grants: Key funding includes the KONEKSI grant for Jakarta’s coastal reservoir development (2023–2024) and internal grants for geopolymer research and anaerobic co-digestion. He also secured equipment grants for nanopore sequencing platforms and low-vacuum electron microscopy. Advising & Students: He has supervised over 15 HDR completions since 1990, including notable PhD graduates such as San Rathviboon (2011) and Debashis Raha (2006). Current students focus on topics like methane control in wastewater systems and coastal reservoir sediment transport. Labs & Teams: His research groups collaborate on interdisciplinary projects involving water resource management, environmental engineering, and sustainable infrastructure development. He leads initiatives in the International Association for Coastal Reservoir Research (IACRR).
Associate Professor Freda Passam is a Clinical Academic Haematologist at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, University of Sydney, specializing in thrombosis and haemostasis. She leads the Haematology Research Group at the Charles Perkins Centre, focusing on platelet biology, endothelial cell dysfunction, and translational research in cardiovascular diseases. Her work integrates basic science with clinical applications, including developing microfluidic technologies like the Endo-chip for thrombosis diagnosis and therapy screening. Education: MD and PhD in Greece (angiogenesis in Hodgkin’s lymphoma), postdoctoral training at UNSW and Harvard University. Research spans platelet hyperactivity in diabetes, immune thrombosis (e.g., HIT), and thiol isomerase inhibitors as antithrombotics. Collaborates globally with institutions like Harvard and the University of Utah. Research Interests: 1) Platelet biomarkers in diabetes-related cardiovascular risk; 2) Immune thrombosis diagnostics/therapies (e.g., Endo-chip); 3) Bone marrow-on-chip models for thrombopoiesis. Current projects include SEC61B regulation of calcium flux, endothelial thromboinflammation, and ERp5/ERp57 roles in platelet production. Grants: Over $6M in funding from NHMRC, MRFF, NSW Health, and industry partnerships. Notable awards include Sydney Nano Grand Challenge Award (2022) and SLHD VTE Stewardship Award (2020). Advising: Mentors over 6 PhD/master’s students in thrombosis research, emphasizing clinical/research integration. Teaching includes Sydney Medicine curriculum, bedside tutorials, and student engagement in lab activities. Labs/Teams: Haematology Research Group (Charles Perkins Centre), collaborations with Sydney Health Partners, Harvard, and international haematology groups. Develops technologies like the Endo-chip and bone marrow-on-chip models.
Dr. Ai-ris Yonekura Collier serves as Assistant Professor in Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology at Harvard Medical School and Staff Physician in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC). She concurrently holds a Physician-Scientist position at BIDMC's Center for Virology and Vaccine Research (CVVR) and co-directs the Clinical Trials Unit within CVVR, establishing a critical bridge between maternal-fetal medicine and virology research. Her academic foundation includes: B.S. in Biology (Minor: Chemistry) from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2005) M.D. from Harvard Medical School through Harvard-MIT Health Sciences & Technology Program (2011) Obstetrics & Gynecology Residency at UCLA (2011-2015) Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship at BIDMC (2015-2018) Dr. Collier's research centers on maternal immune tolerance mechanisms in placental development, with dual investigative tracks: (1) Characterizing cellular immune phenotypes in pregnancy disorders like preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction, and (2) Analyzing infectious disease impacts including Zika virus and SARS-CoV-2. Her translational approach integrates longitudinal biospecimen repositories with clinical observations, emphasizing the inclusion of pregnant populations in vaccine trials. As an educator, she actively mentors trainees and advocates for policy changes in clinical trial design. Recent publications demonstrate a pronounced focus on viral immunology during the pandemic era, with 7 of 9 recent papers addressing SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccine responses, and Mpox immunity. These works reveal consistent methodological themes: neutralization assays against emerging variants, analysis of coagulation-inflammation pathways in vaccine complications, and sensitive diagnostic approaches for prior infections. Concurrently, she maintains her foundational research in placental immunology, exemplified by cytokine studies in preeclampsia. Her scientific recognition includes: NIH Loan Repayment Program (2018-2020) Mentor Award from ACOG District I (2021) Translational Research Hubs Spark Grant Award (2022) Rookie of the Year Award at BIDMC (2016) Multiple research presentation awards from perinatal societies As Principal Investigator of the Yonekura Collier Laboratory and Co-Director of the Clinical Trials Unit, she manages substantial grant funding including NIH/NICHD support and institutional translational grants. Her leadership extends to hospital-wide initiatives like the BIDMC COVID-19 Biorepository, while her advocacy focuses on rectifying historical exclusions of pregnant individuals from clinical research. She maintains active collaborations across Harvard's immunology and virology departments. The Yonekura Collier Laboratory operates within CVVR's collaborative ecosystem, integrating with Dan Barouch's research group and the broader Harvard Medical School community. Her team combines clinical obstetric expertise with advanced immunological techniques to investigate fetal-maternal interface biology, creating a unique interdisciplinary hub for perinatal infectious disease research.
Joseph van Batenburg-Sherwood is a Lecturer in Biofluid Mechanics at Imperial College London's Department of Bioengineering (Faculty of Engineering). He leads the vBS Lab and holds a Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellowship (2017–2022). His research focuses on biofluid dynamics, particularly in microvascular diseases, intraocular pressure regulation, and ventilator design for resource-limited settings. Education: MEng in Mechanical Engineering, King’s College London (2005–2009) PhD in Biofluid Dynamics, University College London (2009–2013) Research interests include experimental techniques for microscale biological flow analysis, with specializations in: Red blood cell dynamics in microvascular diseases Aqueous humor flow mechanics in glaucoma Ventilator design optimization Benchtop perfusion systems (e.g., iPerfusion) Publications emphasize translational research in ocular fluid dynamics and medical device innovation. Notable contributions include consensus guidelines for outflow facility measurement protocols and MMP-3-based glaucoma therapies. Advising: No listed advisees. Grants: Unspecified in provided text. Labs: vBS Lab at Imperial College London's White City Campus.
Dr Richard Foster is an Associate Professor and Group Leader of Medicinal Chemistry in the School of Chemistry at the University of Leeds, within the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences. His research focuses on small molecule drug discovery, integrating synthetic organic chemistry, computational methods, and biological evaluation to develop novel therapeutics. His primary research interests include medicinal chemistry , drug design , synthetic organic chemistry , and chemical biology . His group works on the identification and optimization of small molecule modulators targeting various disease pathways, employing techniques such as virtual drug design, high-throughput screening, fragment-based design, and chemical proteomics to support their work. Dr Foster's research program includes major projects on inhibitors of the coagulation factor FXIIa for thrombosis treatment with reduced bleeding risk, inhibitors of the AuroraA/MYC interaction for cancer therapy, antagonists of calcium-dependent ion channels, and agonists of the apelin receptor for cardiovascular diseases such as pulmonary arterial hypertension. These projects are supported by Innovate UK and venture capital funding and involve collaborations with other research groups at Leeds and across the UK, including with Richard Bayliss. He leads a multidisciplinary research group conducting work in chemical synthesis, computer-aided drug design, assay development, and in vitro/in vivo screening, often in partnership with industry and academic collaborators. His lab develops pharmacological tool compounds and potential drug leads aimed at both understanding biological mechanisms and advancing therapeutic discovery.
Lorenzo Alberio is a full professor at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), Faculty of Biology and Medicine, and serves as head physician at the Central Hematology Department and Laboratory of the Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV). He has held academic and clinical leadership roles since joining UNIL in 2014 and was promoted to full professor in 2024. His educational background includes a medical degree (1990) and doctorate (1993) from the University of Bern, FMH in internal medicine (1996), and specialist qualifications in hematology (1999) and analytical hematology (2002). He completed research training at the University of Oklahoma (1997–1999). Alberio's research focuses on hemostasis , platelet function , and coagulation disorders . His work includes the development of flow cytometry techniques and assays for procoagulant platelets (COATs), heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, and thrombin generation. His publications span high-impact journals and cover translational and clinical hematology, with a strong emphasis on diagnostic innovation and therapeutic applications. His recent articles reflect a consistent trend in thrombosis , platelet biology , and anticoagulation strategies , often in the context of cancer and critical care. The work bridges basic science with clinical implementation. Scientific awards include: Johann-Lukas-Schönlein Prize (2000) Multiple distinctions from the Swiss Society of Hematology Alberio is deeply committed to education and mentorship, having developed the Lausanne School of Hemostasis and actively teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He has secured significant research funding from the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and leads interdisciplinary projects. His research group operates within the Hemostasis & Platelet Research Laboratory at CHUV, part of a broader network including units in blood cancer proteostasis, targeted immunotherapies, and regenerative hematopoiesis. He maintains international collaborations with institutions in Strasbourg, Tübingen, Islamabad, Leuven, Ghent, and Maastricht. He is also President of the GTH Congress (2021, 2025), underscoring his global academic leadership.
Eduard Bardají Rodríguez is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Girona, where he has been active since 1992. He is affiliated with the Institute of Agro-Food Technology and leads the LIPPSO research group (Laboratory for Innovation in Organic Synthesis Processes and Products), recognized as a Consolidated Research Group by the Generalitat de Catalunya. His work bridges organic chemistry, biomedicine, and agro-food innovation through the design and application of bioactive peptides. Research Interests: His primary focus lies in the discovery and development of bioactive peptides with applications in antimicrobial, anticancer, analgesic, neuroprotective, and cardiovascular therapies. His work integrates synthetic organic chemistry with biological evaluation, aiming to translate basic findings into practical solutions in medicine and agriculture. The recent publication trends highlight a strong emphasis on peptide-based drug discovery, particularly targeting pain, neurodegeneration, and infectious diseases. His research extends into plant biotechnology (e.g., expressing antimicrobial peptides in rice) and combating citrus diseases (HLB), demonstrating a multidisciplinary approach spanning human health and sustainable agriculture. Scientific Awards and Recognition: Consolidated Research Group status for LIPPSO by the Generalitat de Catalunya Advising and Grants: He has led and participated in numerous competitive research projects, including MINECO, PLANT-KBBE (Trilateral Project), IAPP PEP2BRAIN, and H2020 PreHLB. He has established industrial collaborations with companies such as Medichem, Croda, and Menadione. He co-founded the spin-off AMPbiotech to commercialize antimicrobial technologies, reflecting a strong commitment to technology transfer and innovation. Laboratories and Teams: He leads the LIPPSO research group and maintains a strategic alliance with the CIDSAV group, fostering collaborative research in applied antimicrobial development.
Takeharu Nagai is a Professor at Hokkaido University's Research Institute for Electronic Science, leading the Nagai Laboratory in the Department of Biomolecular Science and Engineering. His research integrates bioimaging technologies with molecular biology to explore fundamental questions about life and develop practical applications. Ph.D. from The University of Tokyo (1998) Professor, Hokkaido University (2022-present) Visiting Professor, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (2022) Vice Director, Osaka University SANKEN (2020-2022) Research Interests: Focus on Singularity Biology to study outlier cells' impact on biological systems, trans-scale imaging technologies (e.g., AMATERAS 3.0), and autoluminescent plants for sustainable lighting. Key methodologies include fluorescent/bioluminescent protein development and super-resolution imaging. Publication Trends: Recent works span cellular thermodynamics , water quality monitoring , synaptic plasticity , and trans-scale analytical systems . Collaborative projects address kidney injury mechanisms, plant biotechnology, and medical diagnostics. Scientific Recognition: 44th Shimadzu Prize (2024) 15th Nakatani Award Grand Prize (2023) Japanese Society of Microscopy Award (2020) 38th Japanese Society for Bioimaging Research Paper Award (2023) Grants & Collaborations: Recipient of JST ERATO grants and a Takeda Science Foundation grant (2021) for trans-scale life imaging. Collaborates with RIKEN, JST PRESTO, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, and Kyushu Institute of Technology. Lab Overview: The Nagai Lab maintains active international partnerships (Indonesia University, Emory University) and hosts students through Osaka University's Frontier Bio program. Technical staff and research associates support projects in bioluminescent reporter systems and cellular logic.
Andrew Goodwin, M.D., MSCR, is a Professor of Medicine and Section Chief of Critical Care at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). His research focuses on clinical and translational studies to improve critical illness outcomes through electronic health record (EHR) innovations, clinical decision support systems (CDSS), and multicenter clinical trials. He leads MUSC’s ICU clinical trials program, collaborating with networks like PETAL, ACTIV, and STRIVE, and investigates EHR-driven adherence to ICU best practices and machine learning applications in clinical trials. Dr. Goodwin received his B.S. in Bioengineering from Syracuse University, M.D. from SUNY Stony Brook, and completed residency at Massachusetts General Hospital and fellowship in Harvard’s Combined Program. He joined MUSC faculty in 2011, where he directs research infrastructure through the CTSA program and trains early-career clinical trialists. Critical Care Clinical and Translational Research EHR-enabled Investigation Clinical Decision Support Systems Sepsis Respiratory Failure His recent publications span 2014–2024, addressing topics like EHR harmonization, CDSS for fluid prescribing, driving pressure in ARDS, and microRNA in sepsis. Awards include the Department of Medicine’s Research Faculty Mentor of the Year.
