Michael J. Shelley is the Lilian and George Lyttle Professor of Applied Mathematics and holds joint appointments in Mathematics, Neural Science, and Mechanical Engineering at New York University's Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences. He also serves as Co-Director of the Applied Mathematics Laboratory and Director of the Center for Computational Biology at the Flatiron Institute. Education: PhD (Applied Mathematics) from the University of Arizona (1985), MS (Applied Mathematics) from the University of Arizona (1984), BA (Mathematics) from the University of Colorado (1981). Research: Focuses on complex phenomena in active matter, biophysics, and complex fluids. Key areas include fluid-structure interactions (e.g., swimming/flying mechanics), cytoskeletal dynamics, and collective behavior in biological systems. Collaborates closely with experimentalists through the Applied Math Lab and Flatiron Institute. Labs & Affiliations: Co-Director, Applied Mathematics Laboratory; Director, Center for Computational Biology (Simons Foundation); affiliated with NYU’s Courant Institute and Department of Mathematics. Notable Work: Models for microtubule-motor assemblies, active suspensions, and fluid-structure interactions. Pioneered computational frameworks for Stokes suspensions and fiber dynamics in viscous fluids.
Maiken H. Mikkelsen is the James N. and Elizabeth H. Barton Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Duke University, with a joint appointment in the Department of Physics . Her research focuses on quantum nanophotonics , plasmonics , and light-matter interactions in nanoscale materials, aiming to advance optoelectronics, quantum science, and biomedical diagnostics. Education B.S. in Physics, University of Copenhagen (2004) Ph.D. in Physics, University of California, Santa Barbara (2009) Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of California, Berkeley Her work explores nanophotonic engineering for quantum optics , spintronics , and ultrafast optoelectronics , with recent studies on nonlinear metasurfaces and plasmonic enhancement of immunoassays for point-of-care diagnostics. Publications highlight 2D semiconductor emission control , ultrafast single-photon sources , and metasurface-based photodetectors . Scientific Awards Maria Goeppert Mayer Award (2017) NSF CAREER Award (2015) Moore Inventor Fellow (2021) ONR/Air Force/Army Young Investigator Awards (2015-2017) Cottrell Scholar (2016) Stansell Family Distinguished Research Award (2021) She advises graduate students in Duke’s Electrical & Computer Engineering and Physics programs and leads the Mikkelsen Lab , which emphasizes ultrafast spectroscopy and quantum material development . The lab has graduated PhD students like Eunso Shin and Hengming Li (2025).
Ronald G. Larson serves as the George Granger Brown Professor of Chemical Engineering and A. H. White Distinguished University Professor at the University of Michigan's College of Engineering, with additional appointments in Mechanical Engineering and Macromolecular Science & Engineering. His research leadership spans multiple departments within the Chemical Engineering Division, where he directs the Larson Lab focused on fundamental and applied soft matter physics. His research program investigates complex fluids through computational and theoretical frameworks, emphasizing polymer physics, rheology, and molecular simulations. Key thrusts include polymer melt processing, biomembrane dynamics, colloidal systems, and polyelectrolyte coacervation. The group employs advanced techniques like Brownian dynamics, coarse-grained modeling, and multiscale simulation to address challenges ranging from industrial polymer processing to biomedical applications. Recent publications (2023-2025) reveal strong momentum in rheological modeling of complex fluids, with particular emphasis on self-healing materials, wax deposition in pipelines, and crystallization mechanisms. The work bridges fundamental molecular insights with industrial applications, demonstrating consistent high-impact output across polymer science, soft matter physics, and chemical engineering domains. The Larson Lab operates as a collaborative hub within the Chemical Engineering Department, leveraging computational resources to advance understanding of fluid mechanics and material properties. Current projects integrate machine learning with traditional modeling approaches, reflecting the group's commitment to methodological innovation while maintaining strong connections to experimental validation and real-world engineering problems.
François Peeters is a Full Professor of Physics at the University of Antwerp, Belgium, holding the position since 2000 (with Dutch title 'gewoon hoogleraar' since 2003). He previously served as Research Director (FWO-VI) at the University of Antwerp (1996-1999), Research Leader (NFWO) (1992-1996), and Senior Research Assistant (NFWO) (1988-1992), establishing a distinguished academic career spanning over three decades. His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Antwerp (1982), followed by a Habilitation (Hoger aggregaat) from the same institution (1987), and a postdoctoral fellowship at Bell Laboratories in Murray Hill, New Jersey (1982-1983). His academic journey also featured research periods at prestigious institutions including the High Magnetic Field Laboratory in Grenoble, University of California Berkeley, Oxford University, and several Brazilian and Australian universities. Peeters' research focuses on theoretical condensed matter physics , specializing in the electronic, optical, and magnetic properties of nanostructured systems. His work encompasses semiconductors , superconductors , graphene , and hybrid quantum systems , with particular emphasis on strong correlations in both classical (colloids, dusty plasma) and quantum (quantum dots) environments. His theoretical frameworks bridge fundamental quantum mechanics with practical nanotechnology applications, driving innovations in spintronics and quantum device design. Analysis of his publication record reveals a clear evolution from foundational work on polaron physics and quantum Hall systems in the 1980s-1990s toward contemporary research on graphene, topological materials, and programmable quantum nanodevices. His most cited works demonstrate consistent leadership in mesoscopic physics, with recent publications showing increased focus on spin-dependent transport phenomena and two-dimensional material systems. His scientific recognition includes: Fellowship in the American Physical Society (2005) APS Outstanding Referee award (2008) Doctor Honoris Causa from University of Szeged, Hungary (2009) Peeters has supervised 26 completed PhD theses and currently leads the Condensed Matter Theory research group comprising 3 ZAP researchers, 16 PhD students, and 8 postdocs. His grant portfolio includes coordination of an EU Marie Curie Training site on 'Electrons on helium', participation in multiple EU projects, COST actions, and ESF networks, demonstrating sustained success in securing competitive international funding. The Condensed Matter Theory group maintains extensive international collaborations, evidenced by Peeters' research visits to over 10 institutions worldwide and regular hosting of 3-4 international visitors at postdoc or professorial levels. The group's output of over 770 refereed publications with 12,000+ citations reflects its position at the forefront of theoretical condensed matter physics research.
Martin Nilsson Jacobi serves as President and CEO of Chalmers University of Technology, holding the position of the institution's fourteenth President since September 2023. He simultaneously maintains his academic standing as Professor of Complex Systems at the university, demonstrating his dual commitment to academic leadership and scholarly work. Professor Nilsson Jacobi's research portfolio spans theoretical physics, complex systems theory, and ecological applications. His work bridges multiple disciplines, creating innovative approaches to understanding natural systems through mathematical and computational frameworks. His research trajectory shows an evolution from theoretical physics to complex ecological systems, with particular emphasis on spatial patterns, ecosystem stability, and marine conservation strategies. His scholarly output demonstrates consistent productivity across multiple domains. The most recent publications (2020-2022) focus on complex ecological communities, spatial coherence in heterogeneous landscapes, and species-area relationships, while earlier work (2010-2015) explored self-assembly systems, hierarchical dynamics, and theoretical approaches to complex systems. This progression reflects his ability to apply fundamental theoretical concepts to increasingly complex real-world ecological challenges. Lifetime member of the Swedish Royal Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA) Professor Nilsson Jacobi has held significant leadership roles beyond his current presidency, including serving as chairman of the Faculty Senate and Head of Department at Chalmers. His international research experience includes collaborations with Los Alamos National Laboratory and the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics (NORDITA), highlighting his global scientific engagement. He has successfully secured research funding through multiple projects supported by the Swedish Research Council and the European Commission, demonstrating his ability to lead substantial research initiatives.
Naveen Tiwari is a Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur. His research focuses on transport phenomena, instabilities in micro-scale free surface flows, flow through porous media, and numerical modeling and simulation. He maintains active research collaborations and has published extensively in leading fluid dynamics journals. His research interests encompass Transport Phenomena , Instabilities in micro-scale free surface flows , Flow through porous media , and Numerical modeling and simulation . His work primarily investigates thin liquid film dynamics, interfacial phenomena, and stability analysis of coating flows over heterogeneous surfaces. His research has significant applications in coating technologies, microfluidics, and thermal management systems. His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on Thin film stability analysis over heated surfaces Effects of substrate topography on liquid film behavior Nonlinear dynamics of volatile liquid films Dip-coating processes on patterned surfaces His work bridges fundamental fluid dynamics with practical engineering applications. His notable scientific achievements include: Young Scientist Research Award from the Department of Atomic Energy (2014) Membership in the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (2007-2008) Invitation to present at the International Union of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics symposium in Bangalore (2014) Prof. Tiwari received his PhD from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (2003-2008) with a thesis on 'Dynamics and Stability of Non-Inertial Coating Flows over Heterogeneous Surfaces' under Prof. Jeffrey M. Davis. Prior to his current position, he worked as a Senior Research Engineer at Saint-Gobain, MA (USA) from 2008-2012, where he worked on Diesel Particulate Filter regeneration modeling, methane ignition modeling, sapphire crystal growth, and solid-oxide fuel cells.
Professor Bjoern Braunschweig is a W2 Professor for Physical Chemistry at the Institute of Physical Chemistry within the Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Muenster. His research group focuses on fluid interfaces, hierarchical materials, and responsive systems, utilizing advanced nonlinear optical spectroscopy techniques such as sum-frequency generation (SFG) and second-harmonic scattering (SHS) to investigate molecular structures at interfaces. He leads the ERC-funded SUPERFOAM project, which aims to establish molecular-level understanding of foam formation and stability. His research interests span across interface science, soft matter physics, electrocatalysis, and responsive materials. Braunschweig's work particularly emphasizes molecular self-assembly at fluid interfaces, electrode/electrolyte interfaces in ionic liquids, and the development of light- and temperature-responsive materials. His group investigates how molecular building blocks like surfactants, polymers, and proteins determine macroscopic properties of soft materials such as foams and emulsions. The research group has published extensively on photoswitchable arylazopyrazole surfactants, thermoresponsive polymer systems, CO 2 electrocatalysis in ionic liquids, and ion-specific effects at interfaces. Their recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on molecular-level understanding of interface phenomena with applications in energy conversion, smart materials, and environmental processes. ERC Starting Grant (2014) BASF fellowship (2014) Max Buchner research fellowship (2012) DAAD Travel Grant (2012) Feodor Lynen fellowship (2009) Dissertation award (2009) Professor Braunschweig supervises multiple PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, including Billura Shakhayeva, Tim Blinzer, Tan Phat Pham, and Zugang Cong. His former students include notable researchers such as Natalia García Rey, Marco Schnurbus, and Eric Weißenborn. The group maintains strong collaborations with researchers across Europe, particularly with Michael Ryan Hansen, Andreas Heuer, and Monika Schönhoff at the University of Muenster, as well as international partners in Poland and the United States. Their research combines experimental approaches with theoretical modeling to develop fundamental understanding of interface phenomena with practical applications in materials science and energy technologies.
John F. Brady is the Chevron Professor of Chemical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology. He earned his B.S. from the University of Pennsylvania (1975), M.S. (1977) and Ph.D. (1981) from Stanford University, and has held academic roles at Caltech since 1985, including Executive Officer for Chemical Engineering (1993-99; 2013-19). His research focuses on fluid mechanics, transport processes, and complex/multiphase fluids. Elected to the National Academy of Sciences (20XX) Elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (20XX) Brady's publications reveal expertise in active matter dynamics, microrheology, and non-equilibrium systems. His work spans fundamental fluid mechanics to applied biomedical device design, with a strong emphasis on computational modeling and experimental validation in colloidal and soft matter physics.
Ronald Hedden is a Professor of Practice in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where he focuses on innovations in undergraduate education and polymer science. Previously, he served as an Associate Professor at Texas Tech University (2009–2017). His current research emphasizes Virtual Reality (VR) integration into chemical engineering education, including the development of a Virtual Chemical Plant (VCP) simulation to provide safe, cost-effective access to process equipment. His research interests span chemical engineering, polymer science, soft materials, and nanomaterials. Notable projects include applying VR for teaching process safety and dynamics, as well as exploring nanocomposite materials and membrane technologies. He also investigates polymer rheology and structure-property relationships using advanced characterization techniques like NMR and SANS. Hedden teaches both core chemical engineering courses and interdisciplinary engineering subjects. His work bridges academic research and practical applications, with contributions to biofuel refining, asphalt modification, and nanoparticle incorporation in polymers. While no specific awards are listed, his extensive publication record highlights impactful contributions to materials science and educational technology. His advisory work involves student projects on VR simulations and materials engineering. He collaborates on initiatives like the VCP platform, aimed at advancing safety training and process control education. Hedden’s career reflects a commitment to both cutting-edge research and transformative pedagogy in engineering education.
Prof. Dr. Marc Schneider holds a professorship in Biopharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology at Saarland University's College of Pharmacy . His research focuses on colloidal drug delivery systems, particularly nanostructured and non-spherical particle engineering for overcoming biological barriers in pulmonary and transdermal applications. He leads an internationally recognized lab in Saarbrücken, collaborating with Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) and trinational institutions. Research Highlights: Development of inhalable nano/microparticle systems Surface modification of gelatin nanoparticles Characterization of mucus-penetrating particles 3D printing for microneedle fabrication Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) for nanoparticle analysis Selected Scientific Awards: European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics Best Paper Award (2018) for mucus-penetrating nanoparticles Recognized in 'Ausgezeichnete Orte im Land der Ideen' competition (2018) for 'Nano-Mais' drug delivery system Collaborative Networks: Co-editor for Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews special issue on biological barriers Key participant in trinational Master's program in Biomedicine with Strasbourg, Mainz, and Luxembourg Active in Controlled Release Society (CRS) conferences and local chapters
Dag Hanstorp is a Professor at the Department of Physics, University of Gothenburg. His office is located at Fysikgränd 3, Göteborg (Room F8032), and he can be contacted via email or telephone. His research focuses on experimental atomic/molecular physics and laser applications, including: Quantum phenomena in levitated droplets Ultraprecise spectroscopy of radioactive molecules (e.g., radium monofluoride) Laser-induced dynamics in fuels and aerosols Electron affinity measurements of alkali metals Vacuum laser particle acceleration techniques Spin Hall nano-oscillator characterization Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate interdisciplinary work combining atomic physics, fluid dynamics, quantum optics, and nanotechnology. Common themes include advanced laser spectroscopy, quantum system control, and novel imaging techniques applied to fundamental physical processes.
Karin Jacobs is a Professor in the Department of Physics at Saarland University, where she leads the research group for soft matter physics within the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Technology. Her work bridges experimental physics and applied materials science, focusing on interfacial phenomena, thin films, and functional materials. Research Interests: Her group investigates the stability of coatings, properties of simple and complex fluids, and the adhesion of biomolecules on surfaces. Using advanced experimental techniques such as atomic force microscopy (AFM), ellipsometry, surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and ultra-high vacuum (UHV) methods like photoelectron spectroscopy, her team probes nanoscale and microscale interactions at solid-liquid and solid-gas interfaces. The research spans fundamental and applied domains, including the synthesis and characterization of graphene and boronitrene, production of water-in-water vesicles using hydrophobins, and bacterial adhesion studies. These investigations are often linked to industrial applications in the paint, semiconductor, and biomedical sectors. Publication Trends: Over the past 15 years, her publications reflect a consistent focus on surface physics and soft matter. Key themes include graphene synthesis via liquid precursor deposition (including unconventional sources like fingerprints), interfacial rheology, biopolymer adsorption, and quantitative imaging analysis. The interdisciplinary nature of her work is evident in the combination of physics, chemistry, and biological interfaces. Scientific Awards: No specific awards are mentioned in the provided text. Advising and Grants: As head of an active research group, Prof. Jacobs supervises graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, though specific names are not listed. Her collaborations with theoretical groups and external institutions (e.g., University of Augsburg) suggest participation in joint grants and funded projects, particularly in nanomaterials and surface science. The applied orientation of her research indicates engagement with industry partners in coatings and semiconductor technologies. Labs and Teams: The Jacobs Group operates a well-equipped experimental laboratory at Campus E2 9, Saarland University, specializing in surface analysis and soft matter characterization. The team includes researchers working on biofilms, microfluidics, and functional materials, supported by technical and administrative staff.
Dr. Bin Zhu is a Research Fellow in the School of Mechanical Engineering Sciences at the University of Surrey, affiliated with the Centre for Engineering Materials. He obtained his PhD from the same institution, focusing on multiscale residual stress evaluation and mechanical property characterization using microscopy and large-scale facilities. His research develops techniques for harsh environments to enhance material longevity by managing manufacturing-induced residual stress, with applications in nuclear fusion components. Education PhD, University of Surrey (Research focus: Multiscale residual stress evaluation and mechanical property characterization) Research Focus Dr. Zhu's research centers on three interconnected areas: 1) Multiscale residual stress evaluation using advanced techniques like plasma-focused ion beam and neutron diffraction; 2) In situ mechanical testing under extreme conditions; and 3) Computational modeling for predicting stress distributions and material behavior. His work primarily addresses nuclear fusion reactor challenges, particularly laser-welded Eurofer97 steel components, where residual stress critically impacts structural integrity. Publication Trends Dr. Zhu's recent publications (2021-2025) demonstrate three key themes: 1) Advanced residual stress analysis in nuclear materials using machine learning, neutron imaging, and synchrotron techniques; 2) High-temperature mechanical performance of welded joints for fusion reactors; and 3) Biomimetic material characterization, including bioinspired composites and biological light-diffraction mechanisms. His methodologies consistently integrate multiscale experimental approaches with computational modeling.
Dr. Wanlu Li is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Montclair State University's College of Science and Mathematics. She holds a PhD from The Graduate Center-City University of New York and conducted postdoctoral research at Columbia University. Her work focuses on developing heteroatom-doped porous carbon materials for applications in sustainable energy and environmental remediation. Education: Bachelor of Science, Binzhou University Doctor of Philosophy, The Graduate Center-City University of New York Research Interests: Design of porous carbon materials for electrochemical CO₂ reduction Biowaste-derived supercapacitor applications Photocatalytic degradation of environmental pollutants Nickel-based catalysts for biomass conversion Her studies emphasize functional group engineering and porosity optimization to enhance material performance in energy storage and environmental remediation. Publications: Dr. Li has published over 20 peer-reviewed articles, with recent work exploring S,N-codoped carbon materials, biowaste-derived composites, and photocatalyst stability under environmental conditions. These studies highlight advancements in sustainable material design and energy conversion technologies. Affiliations: Member of the American Carbon Society, American Chemical Society, and Electrochemical Society. Lab & Teams: Leads the Wanlu Li Group focused on Material Chemistry for Environmental Remediation and Renewable Energy. Her lab investigates advanced carbon-based materials through collaboration with industry and academic partners.
Prof. CHEN Shuming is a Tenured Professor and Doctoral Supervisor at the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering , Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) . He has held academic positions since joining SUSTech in 2013 and was promoted to Professor in 2024. Education: PhD in Electronic and Computer Engineering (HKUST, 2012), Master in Optical Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University, 2008), Bachelor in Optoelectronics (South China University of Technology, 2005) Research Focus: Prof. Chen specializes in quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) , with expertise in device engineering , device physics , and display/lighting applications . His work includes: Novel device structures (tandem, top-emitting, flexible) Charge transport and exciton dynamics Low-cost fabrication techniques (inkjet printing, laminating) Publication Trends: His recent papers address QLED stability , high-efficiency architectures , and AC-compatible devices , reflecting advancements in quantum dot technology and consumer electronics integration . Scientific Awards: Guangdong Natural Science Award (2024) Shenzhen Youth Science and Technology Award (2017) China Invention Association Innovation Award (2024) International Society for Information Display Outstanding Paper Award (2018) Advising and Grants: Prof. Chen has supervised 6 doctoral students, 5 master's students, and multiple undergraduates. He has led over 10 major projects, including National Natural Science Foundation grants and National Key R&D Program initiatives.
