Dr. Andreas Wagner is a leading researcher at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), serving as Head of the Nuclear Physics Division and Head of the Radiation Source ELBE. His work focuses on applied nuclear physics, including nuclear astrophysics, detector development, and radiation technology. He leads the R3B collaboration at GSI/FAIR and chairs the Helmholtz portfolio initiative for Detector Technologies and Systems. His research spans nuclear data applications, materials science using positron annihilation spectroscopy, and medical physics applications in proton therapy verification. Dr. Wagner collaborates internationally, with projects at HZDR, GSI, and TU Dresden. He has contributed to advanced experimental facilities like the ELBE Linac and the Radiation Source ELBE. Teaching activities include courses on nuclear astrophysics, particle accelerators, and detector technologies at TU Dresden. His work bridges fundamental physics with applied technologies, emphasizing interdisciplinary research in energy, materials, and medical physics.
Prof. Cristiana Di Valentin is a Full Professor of General and Inorganic Chemistry at the Department of Materials Science , University of Milano Bicocca, and serves as Group Leader at NanoQlab and the Centro di Nanomedicina . Her research focuses on nanomedicine, photocatalysis, and computational chemistry, with notable contributions to graphene-based materials and surface reactivity. She leads major grants, including an ERC Consolidator Grant (2016-2021) and Cariplo Foundation projects. Education: She holds a B.S. and M.S. in Chemistry from the University of Pavia (1997, 110/110 cum laude), a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Pavia & TU Munich (2000), and an IUSS Graduate Diploma (2000). Research Interests: Her work integrates theoretical and computational methods to study nanomaterials for energy, catalysis, and biomedical applications. Key themes include functionalized TiO₂ surfaces, graphene interfaces, and nanoparticle-biomolecule interactions. Recent studies explore photocatalytic oxidation pathways, ligand-mediated targeting, and stealth nanodiamond design. Publications: Over 147 peer-reviewed articles (Scopus H-index 46), with recent work emphasizing graphene-Pc heterostructures for gas sensing, Pd-cyclometalated catalysts, and molecular dynamics simulations of drug-nanoparticle interactions. Awards: Nasini Medal (Italian Chemical Society, 2011) , ERC Consolidator Grant, and prizes for student research mentorship (IUSS, 1998-2000). Grants & Labs: PI of the Smart bioinorganic hybrids for nanomedicine (ERC) and Beyond graphene (Futuro in Ricerca). Active in collaborations for computational modeling (CINECA grants) and experimental validation of nanodevices.
Federico Rosei is Professor and Director of the Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications (Centre EMT) at Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS) in Varennes, Canada. He holds the UNESCO Chair in Materials and Technologies for Energy Conversion, Saving and Storage and has been a Canada Research Chair (senior) since 2016. Previously, he served as Director of Centre EMT from 2011 to 2019 and held junior and senior Canada Research Chairs since 2003. His educational background includes a Laurea degree (1996) and PhD (2001) from University of Rome I, followed by postdoctoral work as a Marie Curie Fellow at the University of Aarhus, Denmark (2000-2002). He also held visiting positions including Gledden Fellow and Professor at Large at the University of Western Australia (2008-2012). Professor Rosei's research spans multiple cutting-edge areas in materials science and nanotechnology, with particular focus on quantum phenomena at the nanoscale. His work bridges fundamental surface science with practical applications in renewable energy technologies. He has made significant contributions to understanding and developing multiferroic materials, quantum dots for energy applications, and novel nanofabrication techniques. His research integrates experimental surface science with theoretical modeling to create advanced materials for optoelectronic and photonic devices. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on energy conversion technologies, particularly solar energy applications. His work consistently bridges fundamental nanoscale phenomena with practical device applications, showing evolution from basic surface science toward increasingly complex functional materials systems. The publications demonstrate expertise across multiple disciplines including materials chemistry, condensed matter physics, and electrical engineering, with a growing emphasis on sustainable energy solutions in recent years. Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada Fellow of the European Academy of Science Fellow of the American Physical Society Fellow of the Optical Society of America NSERC EWR Steacie Memorial Fellowship Rutherford Memorial Medal, Royal Society of Canada Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Award from Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Khwarizmi International Award from Government of Iran Outstanding Engineer Award from IEEE Canada Professor Rosei has supervised numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, though specific names aren't listed in the provided text. His research has been supported by significant grants including multiple Canada Research Chairs (junior and senior), the UNESCO Chair, and various international collaborations. He has co-organized 96 symposia/workshops/conferences across 21 countries, demonstrating extensive international engagement. His editorial roles include Associate Editor of Journal of Materials Chemistry C and advisory board membership for six international journals. As Director of the Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications at INRS, Professor Rosei leads a multidisciplinary research team focused on developing next-generation materials for energy applications. His laboratory combines advanced characterization techniques with nanofabrication capabilities to investigate quantum phenomena in novel materials systems. The research environment fosters collaboration between chemists, physicists, and engineers working on cutting-edge problems in sustainable energy technologies.
Dr. Adrian Claudiu POPA is a Scientific Researcher III at the National Institute of Materials Physics in Romania, specializing in biomaterials research at the Laboratory of Complex Heterostructures and Multifunctional Materials. His work focuses on developing advanced biomaterials for bone tissue engineering and medical implant applications. His research interests span multiple areas of biomaterials science, with particular emphasis on bioactive ceramics and glasses, piezoelectric materials for bone grafts, and antibacterial coatings. Dr. POPA has pioneered work in cation-substituted hydroxyapatite, therapeutic ion incorporation in bioglasses, and advanced thin film deposition techniques for medical applications. Analysis of his publication record reveals a strong focus on developing next-generation bone graft substitutes that combine piezoelectric properties with osteoconductive capabilities. His research demonstrates expertise in magnetron sputtering, robocasting, and other advanced fabrication techniques for creating complex biomaterial structures with precise control over composition and properties. Dr. POPA's collaborative work spans multiple international research groups, particularly with CICECO researchers in Portugal, demonstrating the global recognition of his contributions to biomaterials science. His publications consistently address critical challenges in implant technology, including antibacterial functionality, mechanical compatibility, and enhanced biological integration.
Marek Kojdecki is a Professor at the Military University of Technology, specializing in materials engineering with a focus on crystalline microstructure analysis, liquid crystals, and advanced material characterization. His work bridges applied physics and materials science, particularly in semiconductor materials, nanomaterials, and ceramic composites. He has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles, supervised 1 promoted thesis, and led 6 research projects. His research employs cutting-edge techniques such as X-ray diffraction, mobility spectrum analysis, and composite method measurements. Key achievements include studies on mullite microstructure in ceramics, quantum transport in topological heterojunctions, and optical properties of liquid crystals. Research Interests: Liquid crystal dynamics, nanocrystalline materials, semiconductor epilayers, X-ray diffraction modeling, and material characterization. Technical Expertise: Advanced microscopy, thin film fabrication, and computational material modeling. His work has contributed to advancements in electronic materials, optoelectronic devices, and ceramic processing technologies. Notable methods developed include the complementary interference wedge method for liquid crystal analysis and regularization techniques for inverse problems in material characterization.
Dr. Rafael Gregorio Mendes is a Researcher in the Soft Condensed Matter group within the Physics department at Utrecht University's Faculty of Science. He joined Utrecht University in 2021 after completing postdoctoral positions at the Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (2015-2016), Soochow University in China (2016-2018), and working with Dr. T. Gemming in Germany (2018-2020). He received his PhD from Dresden Technical University in 2015. His research focuses on advanced electron microscopy techniques to investigate nanomaterials, with particular expertise in Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and in-situ characterization methods. His work spans several key areas including the study of 2D materials like graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides, electron beam-driven material transformations, nanoparticle synthesis and characterization, and the interaction of nanomaterials with biological systems. His research has significant implications for energy conversion, catalysis, and biomedical applications. Analysis of his extensive publication record (over 70 papers) reveals a strong trend toward in-situ electron microscopy studies of dynamic processes in nanomaterials. His work demonstrates expertise in observing real-time transformations in 2D materials under electron beam irradiation, investigating the formation mechanisms of novel nanostructures, and characterizing the behavior of nanomaterials in various environments. His research bridges fundamental materials science with practical applications in energy storage, catalysis, and nanomedicine. Dr. Mendes has collaborated with numerous research groups internationally, as evidenced by his extensive publication record with co-authors from institutions across Europe and Asia. His work has appeared in high-impact journals including Nature Materials, Advanced Materials, ACS Nano, and Small, with several publications receiving significant citations, indicating substantial impact in the nanomaterials research community. He works within the Soft Condensed Matter group led by Prof. Alfons van Blaaderen at Utrecht University, which specializes in the study of complex fluids, colloids, and soft matter systems using advanced imaging and characterization techniques. This research environment provides state-of-the-art facilities for nanomaterials characterization and synthesis, supporting his work on in-situ electron microscopy investigations.
James N. Eckstein is a Professor of Physics at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, affiliated with the Frederick Seitz Materials Research Laboratory. He holds a PhD from Stanford University (1978) and a bachelor's degree from St. Olaf College (1973). His research focuses on condensed matter physics, particularly superconductivity, magnetic materials, and advanced thin film growth techniques like molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Eckstein is renowned for pioneering atomic layer-by-layer MBE to study cuprate superconductors and oxide magnetic materials. His work has revealed critical insights into interface physics, proximity effects, and quantum criticality in materials like manganites and topological insulators. Key contributions include studies on colossal magnetoresistance in manganites, quantum coherence in superconducting qubits, and the suppression of superconductivity in topological insulators. Eckstein has authored over 50 publications in journals like Physical Review Letters and Advanced Materials , and holds six U.S. patents. His honors include the James C. McGroddy Prize (2021), Bernd T. Matthias Prize (2012), and APS Fellow status (2005). He teaches advanced electromagnetism courses (PHYS 435/436) and has been recognized for teaching excellence. His lab, the Eckstein Group, collaborates with institutions globally, advancing materials for quantum computing and energy applications.
Dr. Sashi Satpathy is a Curators’ Professor in the Department of Condensed Matter Theory at the University of Missouri, Columbia. His research focuses on theoretical and computational studies of electronic structure and magnetism in solids, with a particular emphasis on correlated oxides, spin ice materials, and two-dimensional (2D) systems like transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and graphene. He employs advanced computational techniques such as density-functional theory (DFT), exact diagonalization, and quantum Monte Carlo methods to investigate phenomena like topological phases, spin-orbit coupling effects, and orbital Hall effects. Education: PhD in Physics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Research Interests: Prof. Satpathy’s work bridges computational theory and materials science, exploring how electron interactions and spin-orbit coupling drive emergent phenomena in solids. Key areas include: Magnetism and electronic structure in correlated oxides Topological phases and skyrmion crystals in 2D materials Spintronics and orbital Hall effects in centrosymmetric TMDs Strain engineering of electronic properties in monolayer systems His recent studies highlight the role of symmetry-breaking in orbital dynamics and the tunability of electronic states via external fields or structural strain. Publications Trends: His articles (2020–2024) emphasize theoretical predictions of novel electronic behaviors in 2D materials, such as giant orbital Hall effects in TMDs and strain-driven transitions in cuprates. This work contributes to advancing quantum materials for spintronic and topological device applications. Awards & Grants: While no specific awards are listed, his sustained research output reflects recognition in the condensed matter community. Funding sources and grants are not explicitly detailed in the provided text. Labs & Teams: He leads the Computational Condensed Matter Theory Group , which develops theoretical frameworks and computational models to predict and explain phenomena in complex materials systems.
Dr. Andrivo Rusydi is an Associate Professor at the National University of Singapore. His office is located at S13-02-01, and he can be contacted at +65 6516 4897 / 8931. His research focuses on the interplay of spin, charge, orbital, and lattice degrees of freedom at interfaces and surfaces of complex systems, including magnetic materials, high-temperature superconductors, and molecular electronics. He specializes in developing and applying advanced in-situ synchrotron-based characterization techniques such as resonant soft X-ray magnetic scattering, spectral generalized magneto-optical spectroscopic ellipsometry (from mid-infrared to vacuum-ultraviolet), and angular resolved photoemission spectroscopy. His work also involves atomically controlled film growth using molecular beam epitaxy at the Singapore Synchrotron Light Source. Analysis of his selected publications reveals a focus on oxide interfaces (LaAlO3/SrTiO3), spintronic materials, superconductivity dynamics, and electronic structure modifications in correlated systems. Key methodologies include synchrotron radiation studies, optical conductivity analysis, and time-resolved spectroscopy.
Svetlana Neretina is a Professor in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering and a Concurrent Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Notre Dame, where she has been on faculty since 2022. She previously served as an Associate Professor at Notre Dame (2016–2022) and Assistant Professor at Temple University (2009–2016). Her research focuses on the synthesis and fabrication of noble metal nanostructures for applications in catalysis, sensing, and energy. Key interests include plasmonics, nanofabrication techniques such as nanoimprint lithography and dynamic templating, photocatalysis for green chemical synthesis, hydrogen generation, and the development of in situ monitoring tools for scalable manufacturing. Her work bridges materials science, chemistry, and mechanical engineering. Her recent publications demonstrate a strong trend in advanced nanomaterial design, including core-satellite assemblies, epitaxially aligned arrays, and functional oxide nanoshells. These works span high-impact journals like ACS Nano , Nanoscale , and Journal of Physical Chemistry C , emphasizing precision fabrication and real-world applicability in energy and sensing. NSF CAREER Award (2011) ACS Pride Merck Graduate Student Award (mentored student, 2025) Multiple Outstanding Graduate Student Teacher Awards (mentored students, 2020–2023) NDIIF Best Publication Image Award (mentored student, 2023) Regional and State Science Fair Awards for high school interns (2020, 2023) Dr. Neretina actively mentors a large group of PhD students and undergraduate researchers, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in academia and industry. Her lab, the Nanomaterial Fabrication Research Laboratory, has secured ongoing funding to support graduate researchers and develop new instrumentation. She emphasizes scalable, manufacturable approaches to nanomaterial synthesis, aligning research with industrial needs. The lab frequently collaborates with external groups, such as Professor Eric Borguet at Temple University, on plasmonic sensing applications. The Nanomaterial Fabrication Research Laboratory develops and applies innovative techniques like dynamic templating and hybrid nanoimprint templating to fabricate periodic arrays of complex nanostructures. The lab is equipped with custom-built instrumentation and supports interdisciplinary research at the intersection of materials, chemistry, and engineering.
Mathias Michael Klaui is a Professor at the Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz and an Adjunct Professor at the Center for Quantum Spintronics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). He has held leadership roles including Director of the Graduate School of Excellence: Materials Science in Mainz (MAINZ) since 2012 and Founding Director of the Gutenberg Council for Young Researchers (2014-2017). Education Diploma in Physics (with distinction/Springorum Medal), RWTH Aachen (2001) PhD in Physics, University of Cambridge (2003) Habilitation, Universität Konstanz (2008) His research focuses on spin structures in confined geometries, spin transfer torque , and magnetoresistance effects , extending to multiferroic materials and graphene . He investigates electronic properties of complex thin films like Heusler compounds and superconductors , funded by EU, Swiss, German, and industrial grants. Recent publications highlight trends in skyrmion dynamics , spin-orbit torque manipulation , and antiferromagnetic spin transport , often involving van der Waals materials and orbital angular momentum . His work bridges fundamental physics and applied spintronic devices like MRAM and magnon polaritons . Scientific Awards Fellow of the IEEE (2022) Fellow of the American Physical Society (2020) Member of the European Academy of Sciences (2020) Fellow of the Institute of Physics (2014) Nicholas Kurti Prize (2011) Physics Prize of the Göttingen Academy of Sciences (2003) He has secured significant grants including an ERC Starting Grant (2008) and DAAD Fellowship (2003). His group includes researchers like Fabian Kammerbauer and José Omar Ledesma-Martin, with active recruitment for PhD candidates and internships .
Erik Wahlström is a Professor and Head of Department in the Department of Physics at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) . His research focuses on nanoscale charge transport, magnetism in low-dimensional systems, and magnetic nanoparticle dynamics . He holds a Doctor of Technology (Teknologie doktor) in surface science from Chalmers University of Technology (2000), followed by postdoctoral research at Aarhus University and Chalmers. Active at NTNU since 2005, he leads studies on magnetodynamics, spin wave propagation, and instrumentation development. His research interests span antiferromagnetism, ferromagnetic resonance spectroscopy (FMR), scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), and thin film characterization . Key contributions include investigations of magnonic crystals, spin torque oscillators, and the interplay between mechanical and magnetic properties in self-assembled superstructures. He develops custom ultrahigh-vacuum (UHV) STM systems and broadband FMR setups. Recent publications highlight advancements in spin wave dynamics in Co2FeAl thin films, magnonic crystal properties, and mechanically reconfigurable magnetic nanocube arrays. His work bridges fundamental physics with applications in nanoelectronics and quantum materials. Erik’s instrumentation expertise includes STM design and microwave magnetometry techniques. Collaborations span international groups, reflecting his role in advancing experimental condensed matter physics. No scientific awards are explicitly listed, though his prolific publication record and leadership roles underscore his impact.
Prof. Mathieu Luisier is a Full Professor of Computational Nanoelectronics at ETH Zurich's Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering. He earned his PhD in 2007 from ETH Zurich, followed by postdoctoral research there and a role as Research Assistant Professor at Purdue University (2008–2011). His research focuses on nanoscale device modeling, including nanowire transistors, memristors, and 2D semiconductors, with a strong emphasis on quantum transport and high-performance computing. ERC Starting Grant (2013) SNSF Advanced Grant (2022) ACM Gordon Bell Prize (2019) His work integrates advanced simulation techniques like GW approximations and parallel algorithms to address challenges in nanoelectronics. He teaches courses on digital circuits and integrated systems, and leads research groups exploring next-generation devices for applications in quantum computing and neuromorphic systems.
Eugenio Coronado is a Professor and Director of the Institut de Ciència Molecular (ICMol) at the Universitat de València. He serves as the scientific coordinator of Spain's national complementary R+D plan for Advanced Materials, mobilizing €53 million in funding. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration across materials innovation, sustainability, and energy technologies. Research focuses include 2D materials (e.g., graphene, CrSBr), spintronics, molecular magnets, and functional nanomaterials. Key projects involve designing tunable magnetic systems, exploring spin transitions in coordination polymers, and developing efficient electrocatalysts for water oxidation. Coronado leads a national network of over 200 research institutions and coordinates master’s programs in advanced materials. His articles highlight breakthroughs in van der Waals heterostructures, quantum spin effects, and nonlinear magnetoconductivity. Coronado advocates for synergies between academia and industry, aiming to advance Spain’s scientific impact through annual conferences like AMaTs and training initiatives.
Carlos Antonio Fernandes Vaz is a Scientist at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland, affiliated with the Center for Photon Science and Laboratory for Condensed Matter. He serves as the responsible scientist for the Surface/Interface: Microscopy beamline at the Swiss Light Source, operating and developing soft x-ray photoemission electron microscopy and absorption spectroscopy techniques for condensed matter research. His academic background includes: Bachelor's degree from Lisbon University Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Cambridge Postdoctoral research at Yale University Dr. Vaz's research focuses on magnetism, spintronics, and multiferroics with expertise in epitaxial growth and nanoscale characterization of transition metal ferromagnets and complex oxide heterostructures. He employs advanced X-ray and electron spectroscopy to investigate thin films and patterned elements for applications in nanomagnetism and catalysis, contributing to fundamental understanding of multifunctional materials at the nanometer scale. Within the Photon Science Division, he develops critical infrastructure including x-ray/electron detectors, advanced optics, and novel synchrotron measurement techniques. His work bridges fundamental condensed matter physics with practical applications in materials science.
