Hugo de Lasa is a Full Professor at the Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Western Ontario. He holds a Bachelor in Chemical Engineering (1968) from Universidad Nacional del Sur, Argentina, and a Doctoral degree (1971) from Université de Nancy, France. Research Focus: Catalysis, Photocatalysis, Chemical Reactor Engineering, Fluidization, Biomass Gasification Awards: Research Excellence Prize (1998), Fellow of the Chemical Institute of Canada (2000), Medal of Research and Development (2000), Doctor Honoris Causa (2004, 2018) His work spans chemical reactor design , photocatalytic hydrogen production , and fluidized bed technologies . Recent publications highlight machine learning applications in chemical equilibrium modeling and CO2 capture using microalgae. He founded the Chemical Reactor Engineering Centre (CREC) and Recat Technologies Inc. , a university spin-off commercializing reactor innovations. Awards include the Vanguard Award (2019) and Commemorative Issue in Catalysts Journal (2020). His research has generated 389 peer-reviewed publications , 14 patents , and over 10,000 citations .
Steven Rogak is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Applied Science. He holds a P.Eng. license and degrees including a B.A.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from UBC, and M.Sc. and Ph.D. from Caltech. P.Eng., University of British Columbia B.A.Sc., University of British Columbia M.Sc., Ph.D., California Institute of Technology His research focuses on aerosol science, particularly solid nanoparticles from combustion processes, their climate and health impacts, and mitigation strategies. Key areas include: Soot morphology and transport properties Engine emission reduction via fuel injectors Indoor air filtration systems Membrane-based energy exchangers Atmospheric particulate analysis The 15 most recent articles span experimental and theoretical studies on soot characterization, membrane technologies, and aerosol dynamics, with applications in climate modeling, healthcare ventilation, and sustainable materials. Collaborations include Westport Innovations and interdisciplinary teams. Rogak leads the Aerosol Laboratory at UBC, where he applies fluid mechanics and heat transfer fundamentals to address environmental and health challenges. He emphasizes experimental rigor and welcomes graduate students with expertise in these areas.
Luis A. Ricardez-Sandoval is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Waterloo and holds a Tier II Canada Research Chair in Multiscale Modelling and Process Systems. His research group develops advanced computational tools for optimizing chemical processes across multiple scales. Doctorate: Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo (2008) MASc: Chemical Engineering, Instituto Tecnologico de Celaya (2000) BASc: Chemical Engineering, Instituto Tecnologico de Orizaba (1997) The research group focuses on multiscale modelling and process systems engineering , particularly for CO2 capture , energy systems , and heterogeneous catalysis . Their work combines advanced mathematics, machine learning , and uncertainty analysis to optimize chemical processes before physical implementation. Recent publications emphasize dynamic system optimization under uncertainty, multiscale simulation , and CO2 conversion technologies . Key methodologies include probabilistic uncertainty quantification and economic predictive control . Scientific Awards : 1997: First Place, XII National Creativity Contest 1998: Best Student Award, Instituto Tecnologico de Orizaba 1999: Third Place, XIV National Creativity Contest 2000: J.M. Smith Award for Best MASc Student He has collaborated with international institutions like CONACyT-Mexico, China Scholarship Council, and Universidad de Los Andes. His teaching includes graduate courses in process control, optimization, and computer-aided design.
Arturo Macchi is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Engineering. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia, and MASc and B.Eng. degrees from the École Polytechnique de Montréal. His research focuses on multiphase reactor engineering, particularly fluidized bed systems, gas hydrates, microreactors, and CO₂ capture technologies. Collaborations include institutions like CanmetEnergy-Ottawa, NRC-ICPCE, and industry partners such as Syncrude Canada Ltd. and Lonza Inc. Key research areas include high-pressure multiphase reactors, CO₂ capture via dual fluidized beds, and microreactor design for pharmaceutical applications. His work integrates computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling with experimental validation to address challenges in energy efficiency, process intensification, and sustainable energy storage. Recent projects explore calcium looping processes for thermochemical storage and oxy-fuel combustion technologies. Publications highlight advancements in fluidization dynamics, bubble column hydrodynamics, and scale-up methodologies for industrial hydroprocessors. His contributions span both fundamental and applied research, bridging academic insights with industrial applications in petrochemical, environmental, and pharmaceutical sectors.
Xiaotao Bi is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the Faculty of Applied Science, University of British Columbia. He is a Fellow of The Canadian Academy of Engineering, recognized for his significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering, particularly in biomass energy systems and environmental technologies. Dr. Bi's research focuses on developing environmental systems analysis and life cycle assessment tools to model and evaluate biomass energy systems. His work encompasses Canadian wood pellets, animal wastes, agricultural residues, and integrated impacts assessment of various biomass conversion processes including combustion, gasification, torrefaction, and pelletization. Current research interests include electrostatic charging of dielectric particles in gas-solids fluidized beds, dual fluidized bed for biomass steam gasification, and novel i-CFB reactors for catalytic NOx reduction. His extensive publication record demonstrates expertise across multiple domains of sustainable energy and environmental engineering. Recent work shows a strong emphasis on biomass conversion technologies, particularly microwave-assisted processes, fluidized bed systems, and waste valorization. There's a clear trend toward developing more efficient and environmentally friendly processes for converting various biomass feedstocks into energy and valuable products, with particular attention to addressing technical challenges like tar formation in gasification and electrostatic issues in particle handling. Dr. Bi has been recognized with the prestigious honor of being named a Fellow of The Canadian Academy of Engineering, which acknowledges his significant contributions to engineering research and practice in Canada. As a research leader, Dr. Bi has supervised numerous graduate students and secured funding for his research team to investigate innovative approaches to biomass conversion and environmental engineering challenges. His work bridges fundamental research with practical applications for sustainable energy systems. Dr. Bi leads a research team focused on developing advanced technologies for biomass conversion and environmental protection. His laboratory facilities likely include specialized equipment for fluidized bed operations, biomass processing, and analytical tools for characterizing biofuels and byproducts.
Naoko Ellis is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of British Columbia, Faculty of Applied Science. Her work bridges advanced multiphase reaction engineering with pressing sustainability challenges, focusing on fluidized-bed technologies for CO₂ capture, biomass valorisation, and clean energy production. Research Interests Multiphase reaction engineering & fluidized beds CO₂ capture via calcium looping and chemical looping combustion Biomass gasification, pyrolysis, and tar mitigation Bio-oil upgrading and biochar engineering for environmental applications Engineering education innovation for sustainability literacy Recent publications (2020-2024) reveal an integrated approach combining rigorous reactor modeling, novel catalyst development, and educational scholarship. Energy and environmental engineering dominate the portfolio, with emerging use of machine-learning tools for process optimisation and extensive exploration of biochar and bauxite-residue valorisation. Scientific Recognition Guest editor for memorial special issues honouring Prof. John R. Grace (Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, Powder Technology, 2023-2024) Invited prefatory contributions on chemical engineering education (Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, 2024) Advising & Grant Landscape No specific student names or funding details were provided in the supplied text; however, the breadth of collaborative publications and education-focused papers indicates active supervision of graduate researchers and leadership in curriculum-development grants. Labs & Teams Operates within the multiphase reaction engineering laboratory environment at UBC Chemical and Biological Engineering, leveraging pilot-scale fluidized-bed facilities and advanced analytical instrumentation for thermochemical conversion studies.
Dr. Charles Dubois is a Full Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Polytechnique Montréal, specializing in reactive polymer processing, nanothermites, and composite materials. He is a member of the Research Center for High-Performance Polymer and Composite Systems (CREPEC) and has supervised 35 graduate students (19 PhD, 16 Master’s) since 2005. B.Eng., M.Sc.A. (Sherbrooke), Ph.D. (Laval) Affiliation: CREPEC His research interests span polymer nanocomposites, thermosetting resins, chemorheology, and energetic materials. Recent work focuses on graphene-based EMI shielding composites, aluminum-based nanothermites for propulsion, and polymer-coated metal powders for controlled combustion. Dr. Dubois has contributed to 167 publications, with recent trends in nanothermite combustion kinetics, polymer composites for electromagnetic shielding, and sustainable energetic materials. He has provided expert commentary to media outlets like La Presse and Radio-Canada on explosive material safety and propellant design.
William E. (Liam) Kieser is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Science. His research focuses on accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS), ion source development, and isobar separation techniques. He leads the André E. Lalonde Accelerator Mass Spectrometry Laboratory. His work combines instrumentation innovation with applications in geology, environmental science, and biology. Kieser collaborates internationally to advance AMS technology for studying Earth processes and complex systems. Education: Not explicitly listed in text Affiliations: Department of Physics, André E. Lalonde AMS Lab Research interests include experimental condensed matter physics, mass spectrometry instrumentation, radiocarbon dating, and analysis of platinum/actinide elements. Key techniques involve ion beam cooling, gas-phase reactions, and low-concentration isotope detection (down to 1-in-10¹⁶ levels). Publications emphasize AMS method development for chlorine isotopes, platinum group elements, and iodine-129. Recent work (2005-2009) highlights advancements in gas ion sources, reaction cells, and low-level elemental analysis for insulating materials. His research bridges physics innovation with real-world environmental and geological applications. Grants/Awards: None explicitly mentioned Lab Focus: André E. Lalonde AMS Lab
Dr. M Reza Kholghy is an Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in Particle Technology and Combustion Engineering at Carleton University's Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. He directs the Energy and Particle Technology Laboratory (EPTL) where he focuses on sustainable industrial solutions. His academic credentials include a BASc in Aerospace Engineering from Sharif University of Technology, and MASc/PhD degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toronto, followed by postdoctoral work at ETH Zurich. Research interests center on: Industrial decarbonization through metal fuel combustion (aluminum/iron) and carbon management Hydrogen production via methane pyrolysis and metal-water reactions Advanced material synthesis including flame spray pyrolysis for catalytic films and alumina production Nanoparticle engineering with focus on soot formation dynamics and optical properties His publications predominantly explore nanoparticle synthesis mechanisms, soot formation modeling, and sustainable fuel technologies, with recent emphasis on hydrogen cogeneration and metal combustion. Experimental and computational approaches are equally represented across combustion diagnostics, reactor design, and molecular dynamics simulations. Major scientific recognitions include: Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship He leads the Energy and Particle Technology Laboratory with industry partnerships focused on sustainable technology development. The lab specializes in flame spray pyrolysis reactors, nanoparticle characterization (surface area, porosity, composition), and high-pressure reaction systems. Dr. Kholghy actively mentors students through capstone projects and research positions, though specific PhD/Master's advisees aren't named in available sources.
Alex Rashkovan is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering Physics at McMaster University. His academic work focuses on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), nuclear reactor thermal hydraulics, and heat transfer, with a strong emphasis on modeling fluid behavior in reactor containment systems and experimental validation of CFD simulations. His research spans turbulent jet dynamics, stratified layer erosion, mixed convection, and vortex analysis, as evidenced by publications in journals such as Nuclear Engineering and Design , Physics of Fluids , and Progress in Nuclear Energy . Key trends in his scholarly activity include the optimization of gas-coolant channels, scaling considerations for reactor experiments, and the thermal and fluid dynamic analysis of complex geometries like wavy walls and rotating containers. His work often bridges numerical simulations with empirical validation to enhance reactor safety and efficiency.
Assistant Professor Jackson Crane at Queen's University (Smith Engineering, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) specializes in renewable energy conversion technologies, electrocatalysis, and low-carbon combustion. His research spans detonation fundamentals for high-efficiency engines and CO2-reduction electrocatalysis for alternative fuel synthesis. Education: SB (MIT), MSc & PhD (Stanford), Postdoc (Queen's University) His research combines electrochemical CO2 conversion with detonation dynamics , focusing on multiphysics modeling and experimental validation. Current projects include: High-pressure CO2 reduction systems Detonation propagation in curved channels Pulse electrolysis for stable CO2 reduction Scientific awards include: Bernard Lewis Fellowship (2024) NSF Graduate Research Fellow (Stanford) Stanford Graduate Fellow
Jennifer Galloway is a Researcher at the Geological Survey of Canada and a Professor at Brandon University's Department of Geology. She specializes in palynology and paleoecology , focusing on climate change impacts across various time scales, particularly in Arctic Canada and northern ecosystems . Her work spans Jurassic-Cretaceous stratigraphy , Holocene lake sediments , and contaminant geochemistry in mining-impacted environments. Education: PhD in Earth Sciences from Carleton University (2002-2006), BSc in Biology from Queen's University (1997-2002) Her research integrates palynological biostratigraphy , geochemical analysis , and environmental monitoring to address questions about terrestrial vegetation changes , volcanic impacts , and metal contamination dynamics . Recent publications highlight studies on peat accumulation rates , Arctic wildfire history , and arsenic mobility under climate change. She has served as Editor-in-Chief for the Bulletin of Canadian Energy Geoscience (2020-2024) and editorial advisory boards for journals like the Journal of Cretaceous Research. Key scientific awards include the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada Visiting Fellow in Canadian Government Laboratory (2009) . She has collaborated with international institutions such as Aarhus University (Denmark) and Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland . Her fieldwork includes significant projects in Ellesmere Island , Vancouver Island , and Northwest Territories , utilizing techniques like Itrax XRF core-scanning and uranium-lead zircon dating . She has also contributed to environmental monitoring frameworks for mining impacts and climate change resilience studies in subarctic lakes.
Natalia Semagina is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Alberta, where she has been employed since 2008 after previously serving as a research associate at EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne) and as a senior lecturer/researcher at Tver State Technical University. She holds an undergraduate degree in biotechnology and a Ph.D. in chemical kinetics and catalysis from Tver State Technical University. Her academic journey includes significant research experience in catalytic reaction engineering prior to joining the University of Alberta. Dr. Semagina's research centers on experimental heterogeneous catalysis with three core objectives: understanding reaction mechanisms to design efficient catalysts, minimizing reliance on scarce/expensive materials while maintaining process efficiency, and applying knowledge to energy/environmental chemical engineering processes. Her work spans both fundamental and applied research with strong industry relevance. Current projects focus on turquoise hydrogen production via catalytic natural gas pyrolysis, bio-oil co-processing with bitumen, and process intensification using inductive heating. Past expertise includes catalytic combustion for emissions mitigation, methane reforming, acidic water electrolysis, bitumen upgrading, hydrodesulfurization, and waste-to-value conversion across energy and environmental sectors. No scientific awards were documented in the provided materials. She actively supervises undergraduate research through special projects courses (CME 458/459 variants) requiring departmental consent and minimum 3.0 GPA, while teaching core curriculum including Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics (CH E 343). Grant details and graduate student advising specifics were not explicitly mentioned. Her research group operates from the Donadeo Innovation Centre for Engineering, developing catalytic materials and processes with emphasis on sustainable energy solutions and environmental applications through experimental methodologies.
Cecile Devaud is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering at the University of Waterloo's Faculty of Engineering. She leads the Turbulent Combustion Modeling Lab and is affiliated with Waterloo Engineering’s Fire Research Group and the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Energy. Her research focuses on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for turbulent reacting flows, with applications in fire safety, automotive engineering, and sustainable energy systems. She holds a PhD in Turbulent Combustion from the University of Cambridge and has pioneered advancements in CFD modeling techniques like Conditional Source-term Estimation (CSE). Education: 1999: Doctorate in Turbulent Combustion, University of Cambridge, UK 1995: Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering (Propulsion Systems), INSA Rouen, France 1995: Master's in Thermal Power-Gas Turbine Technology, University of Cranfield, UK Research Interests: Development of CFD models for turbulent combustion, fire safety engineering, soot formation, auto-ignition, and emissions reduction. Her work spans aerospace, automotive, and nuclear industries, with recent focus on two-phase flows and compartment fires. Lab & Partnerships: The Turbulent Combustion Modeling Lab collaborates with industry and global partners to advance combustion technologies. Current projects include oxyfuel combustion, MILD combustion, and fire risk analysis in residential and industrial settings. The lab actively seeks graduate students and sponsors. Recognition: Holds a US patent for 'Air hybrid engine with a plurality of air tanks' (with collaborators).
Colin Copeland is an Associate Professor (P.Eng.) at Simon Fraser University's School of Sustainable Energy Engineering. His research focuses on radial turbomachinery optimization, metal additive manufacturing, and sustainable energy systems. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Imperial College London (2010), an M.A.Sc. from the University of Waterloo (2005), and a B.Eng. from Ryerson University (2003). His work emphasizes shock-wave rotors, heat recovery systems, and inverted Brayton cycles for exhaust energy recovery. Teaching areas include Heat Transfer, Thermodynamics, and Fluid Dynamics. He has contributed to 50+ peer-reviewed publications and holds multiple patents related to energy conversion systems. His research group (T-FORCE) explores advanced turbine designs, additive manufacturing applications, and hydrogen production via wave reformers. Recent work includes optimizing micro-wave rotor turbines and investigating hydrogen-methane blend fuels for commercial building systems.
