Prof. Svetoslav Kosev is a faculty member at the Faculty of Fine Arts of the University of Veliko Tarnovo St. Cyril and St. Methodius. His research bridges computer technology with visual arts , focusing on 3D modeling , digital media , and interactive art . He actively explores the ethical implications of AI in art and integrates augmented reality into classical graphic works. Fields of Interest : Computer technology in fine arts, 3D graphics, interactive multimedia, digital humanities Projects : Founder of the annual Vision Forum for 3D graphics, leader in digitization initiatives, and developer of digital art platforms Research Focus : Kosev investigates how digital tools like AR and 3D printing transform traditional art practices. His work spans artistic innovation and educational technology , particularly in training future artists through interdisciplinary methods . Google Scholar entries reflect his engagement with AI ethics , algorithmic art , and technological aesthetics . Publications highlight collaborations between Bulgarian and Polish institutions , with applications in VR technologies , calligraphy , and interactive visual works . He has contributed to academic discourse through edited volumes and conference proceedings.
Svetlana Fotkova Georgieva is an Associate Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy at the Medical University of Varna. She holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and has been actively involved in academic and administrative roles since 2008. Bachelor of Biotechnology - Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov University, Burgas (2003) Master of Biotechnology - Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov University, Burgas (2006) Master of Organic Chemistry - Bishop Konstantin Preslavski University of Shumen Master of Pharmacy - Medical University of Varna (2022) Specialty in 'Analysis of Medicinal Products' - Medical University of Sofia (2019) Her research focuses on pharmaceutical chemistry , with significant contributions to estrogenic activity prediction , toxic effects of organic compounds , and environmental risk assessment . She has pioneered work in bioremediation technologies using immobilized enzymes and developed databases for pharmaceutical reactivity analysis. The listed publications highlight her expertise in bioremediation (2008–2010), endocrine disruptor analysis (2012–2013), and pharmaceutical environmental impact (2018). Key trends include enzyme-based pollution mitigation, computational modeling of drug reactivity, and risk evaluation for novel pharmaceutical compounds. She has authored multiple textbooks and study aids for pharmacy students, including Pharmaceutical Analysis – Practical Exercises (2019–2020). Her institutional affiliations include the Bulgarian Scientific Society of Pharmacy (BSSP) and the Bulgarian Pharmaceutical Union (BPhU).
Achim Menges is a contemporary architect and Professor of Digital Design at The European Graduate School (EGS) and the founding director of the Institute for Computational Design at the University of Stuttgart. He also holds a visiting professorship at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. His research integrates biomimetic engineering, parametric design, evolutionary computation, and computer-aided manufacturing through interdisciplinary collaboration with engineers, computer scientists, and biologists. Education: Began at Technical University of Darmstadt (Germany), graduated with honors from the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London (2002). Taught at AA School (2002-2012), Rice University (visiting professor), and Offenbach University of Art and Design (2005-2008). Currently at University of Stuttgart since 2012. Research focuses on biomimetic principles applied to architecture, such as humidity-responsive wood structures (e.g., FAZ Pavilion, 2010). Key themes include material computation, adaptive systems, and the synergy between biological processes and digital fabrication. His work emphasizes translating natural phenomena into functional architectural solutions without mechanical control systems. Scientific contributions include the FEIDAD Awards (2002, 2003), RIBA Tutor Prize (2004), Bentley Educator of the Year (2005), and ACADIA Award (2007). Over 10 major publications since 2004, including Material Computation: Higher Integration in Morphogenetic Design (2012). Labs/Teams: Leads the Institute for Computational Design (ICD), affiliated with Germany's Biomimetics Competence Network and Computer Science in Architecture Network. Active in international research evaluations and conference committees.
Melina Vanyova Neykova is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics within the Faculty of Forest Industry at the University of Forestry. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Electronics (2009) and a Master's in Industrial Management (2011) from the Technical University of Sofia. She joined the University of Forestry in 2011 as a part-time assistant professor, later becoming a full-time assistant in 2016. In 2018, she was promoted to Chief Assistant Professor and reassigned to her current department in 2021. Her research spans interdisciplinary domains including: Enterprise-level information systems and security frameworks E-business strategy formulation and technological innovation CAD/CAM optimization for industrial applications Technology-enhanced educational methodologies She teaches diverse courses across bachelor's and master's programs including Fundamentals of CAD Design, Business Intelligence Systems, Database Management, and Information Technologies for specialties like Wood Technology, Agronomy, and Business Management.
Валентина Стоянова Кукенска е доцент и заведател на катедрата за Компютърни Системи и Технологии в Технически Университет - Габрово. Осъществява професионална дейност от 1984 г. с акцент в областта на автоматизираното проектиране, FPGA технологии и компютърни системи. Образованието й включва докторска степен (1999 г.) по тема „Разработка на модулна учебно-изследователска диалогова система за автоматизирано схемотехническо проектиране в електрониката“. Води курсове по автоматизация на инженерния труд, операционни системи и компютърни архитектури. Участлива е в международни и университетски проекти, включително в рамките на програмите TEMPUS и ERASMUS за модернизация на учебните програми и развитие на ICT инфраструктура. Има значителен вклад в разработка на учебни пособия и публикации в области на компютърните системи, FPGA и CAD системи. Нейните исследователски интереси се фокусират върху FPGA архитектури, автоматизирано проектиране на електронна апаратура, и интеграция на CAD технологии в образователните процеси. Участие в над 20 научни проекти и няколко публикации демонстрират нейния принос в областта на компютърната инженерия и образованието.
Иван Симеонов Симеонов is an Associate Professor at Technical University Gabrovo specializing in Computer Systems and Networks. He holds a PhD in Computer Science (2006) and has extensive experience in ultrasonic sensor technology, embedded systems, and automated manufacturing. His career spans roles from researcher to academic leadership in technical fields. Key research focuses include non-contact ultrasonic material analysis, sensor design, and computer-aided engineering solutions. Education: Graduated from VMÉI (Gabrovo) in Electronic Technology, earned PhD in 2006 with thesis on computerized measurement systems. Fluent in English, German, and Russian with strong technical communication skills. Research interests emphasize interdisciplinary applications of computer systems in engineering contexts. His work bridges hardware design (e.g., programmable logic circuits) with software solutions (image processing algorithms). Notable projects include intelligent ultrasonic sensors for industrial automation and non-destructive material testing systems. Publications span 11 peer-reviewed articles and 68 conference presentations, focusing on ultrasonic technologies and embedded systems. Active member of ACM, Bulgarian Union of Automation and Informatics, and academic computer systems communities. Led over 15 research projects funded by national and EU programs, including EU's Erasmus initiatives for education innovation in computing.
John Hamilton Frazer (b. 1945) is a Professor of Digital Design at The European Graduate School / EGS. He is internationally recognized as the 'father of architectural computation,' pioneering generative design, evolutionary computing, and CAD systems. His career spans roles as Head of the School of Design at Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Queensland University of Technology, where he emphasized sustainable design and interactive systems. Education: Stowe School (Preparatory) Architectural Association (Architecture) University of Cambridge (Architecture) Research focuses on evolutionary architectural processes , including the Evolutionary Digital Design Process (EDDP) and autotectonics. His work integrates computational tools with ecological principles, proposing architecture as a form of 'artificial life' with metabolic balance. Notable contributions include the Seven Year Morphogenesis Project (1989–1996) and patents for CAD software interfaces like the 3D cursor. Awards: Multiple innovation awards for Autographics software, including the British Design Award and Toshiba Year of Invention Finalist recognition. His 1995 book An Evolutionary Architecture redefined architectural design processes. Labs/Teams: Founded the Technical Research Division at Cambridge (now Martin Center), Ulster Center for Computer-Aided Design, and Autographics Software (NI) Ltd. His work bridges academia and industry, influencing global CAD education and design practices.
Petko Yakimov is an Assistant Professor at the Design Department of New Bulgarian University. With a PhD in Digital Scenography and Character in Cinema, his academic roles include teaching undergraduate courses in Human-Machine Systems and Image Analysis. He combines technical expertise with artistic sensibilities across multiple disciplines. PhD: Digital Scenography & Character in Cinema, New Bulgarian University (2016) MSc: Film & Television Direction, New Bulgarian University (2013) MFA: Scenography, National Academy of Arts (2001) BFA: Scenography, National Academy of Arts (1996) His research focuses on digital scenography , 3D animation , and virtual reality , with recent work exploring generative art techniques in Houdini and VR applications for museum visualization. Publications span topics from deepfake technology in artistic creation to 3D compositing workflows. Professional experience includes: Technical Specialist, NBU TV Studio (2019-2022) Lecturer in Multimedia & Virtual Reality at Academy for Musical, Dance and Visual Arts "Prof. Asen Sarafiev" (2018-2022) Leadership roles in computer graphics at Bulgarian National Television (2005-2011) CGI contributions to films like "Deep Shock" and "Dragon Fighter"
Maria Vitalievna Talakh serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University. Holding a Candidate of Biological Sciences degree, she bridges the gap between biological sciences and computer science with her unique interdisciplinary expertise. Education: Bohdan Khmelnytskyi National University of Cherkasy (2018): Systems Analysis, Qualification: Systems Analyst (Diploma with honors) Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University (2004): Ecology and Environmental Protection, Qualification: Master of Ecology (Diploma with honors) Candidate of Biological Sciences (2009): Specialty 03.00.16 – ecology, dissertation on 'The role of the forest beech as an edificator species in the forest ecosystem' Research Interests: Dr. Talakh's research spans machine learning algorithms (particularly ensemble models), big data analytics, computer vision, and their applications in life sciences and ecological modeling. Her work demonstrates how computational methods can solve complex problems in environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and software engineering. She has developed intelligent monitoring systems for climate, air temperature, plant health, and software test automation, showing the versatility of her methodological approaches. Publication Trends: Her recent scholarly output reveals a strong focus on practical applications of machine learning across diverse domains. The majority of her publications from 2020-2024 explore convolutional neural networks, ensemble methods, and big data processing techniques applied to environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and software quality assurance. She frequently collaborates with researchers across disciplines, particularly with colleagues at her institution on projects involving satellite data analysis and ecological monitoring systems. Professional Activities: Member of the Bukovina Information Technology Cluster named after Joseph Schumpeter (Chernivtsi IT Cluster, Cluster Bit Association) since 2019 Scientific consultant for Limited Liability Company 'KM TRADE: Security Systems' (2019) Teaching: Dr. Talakh teaches courses related to data mining, intelligent data analysis, ensemble architectures, geoinformation systems, and big data technologies. She has authored numerous textbooks and teaching materials in these areas, demonstrating her commitment to both research and education in computational methods.
Yuriy Ushenko is Professor and Head of the Department of Computer Science at Chernivtsi National University named after Yuriy Fedkovych. An Academician of the Academy of Engineering Sciences of Ukraine (2021), he holds a Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences degree with specialization in optics and laser physics. His interdisciplinary work bridges computer science, biomedical engineering, and optical diagnostics. His educational background includes: Master of Telecommunications from Chernivtsi National University (2003, Diploma with honors) Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences (2015) in specialty 01.04.05 – Optics, Laser Physics Professor title in Computer Science (2017) Professor Ushenko's research focuses on information systems design , data mining , pattern recognition , and digital image processing with specialization in laser polarimetry and interferometry . His work pioneers Mueller-matrix tomography and polarization-correlation microscopy for biomedical applications, developing computational methods to analyze biological tissues and fluids for diagnostic purposes. Key innovations include 3D digital polarization-holographic histology for myocardial damage assessment and intelligent systems for disease identification from medical images. His publication trends reveal a strong emphasis on applying machine learning to biomedical imaging and geospatial analysis, with recent work spanning transformer-based lyrics generation, polarization-singular tissue processing, and migration forecasting systems. The research demonstrates consistent translation of theoretical optics into practical diagnostic tools. Scientific recognition includes: Academician of the Academy of Engineering Sciences of Ukraine (2021) As Director of the Bukovinian Innovation Technologies Cluster (since 2019), he leads regional IT initiatives while serving as Associate Editor for the SCOPUS Q3 journal International Journal of Image, Graphics and Signal Processing . His mentorship has guided students to international awards including ICYS silver medals and EUCYS special prizes. Current projects involve developing automated intelligent systems for LLC 'KM Trade' and advancing Mueller-matrix diagnostic techniques through international collaborations with Springer and SPIE conferences. His laboratory work centers on creating computational frameworks for polarization-correlation microscopy, with active teams developing laser autofluorescence polarimetry techniques and digital image processing pipelines for biomedical diagnostics. The research group maintains strong ties with international partners in optical engineering and medical diagnostics.
Odayska Khrystyna Saveliivna is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Computer Systems and Networks, Chernivtsi National University named after Yu. Fedkovych. She holds a Candidate of Technical Sciences degree with a thesis on "Methods and means of improving the visual quality of images in computerized optoelectronic systems" (2020). Her academic work focuses on digital image processing and artificial intelligence systems. Education: Chernivtsi National University (2013) - Computer Systems and Networks. Her research spans digital image processing techniques, particularly Gaussian noise estimation and removal, with applications in medical imaging and optoelectronic systems. She has contributed to international journals and conferences, including studies on neural networks for X-ray image analysis and bilateral filtration methods for medical imaging. Recent publications include "Software and hardware for determining Gaussian noise level in images" (2022) and "Adaptive oriented filtration of digital images in the spatial domain" (2019). Her work combines theoretical advancements with practical tools like hardware-software complexes for noise estimation and removal.
Kalin Georgiev Nikolov is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, University of Sofia, specializing in computational methods, neural networks, and generalized nets. His work bridges mathematics and computer science through innovative modeling techniques. Fields of Interest: Computer Science, Neural Networks, Generalized Nets, Fuzzy Logic, Computational Mathematics Key Collaborations: Trifon Trifonov, Georgi Mengov, S. Hadjitodorov Recent Research: 2005 publications on neutrosophic sets, adaptive resonance networks, and geometric computing applications
Assoc. Prof. Ivan Trenchev, DSc holds dual roles as an Associate Professor at the University of Library Studies and Information Technologies (ULSIT) (since 2019) in the Department of Information Systems , and at the South-West University "Neofit Rilski" (SWU) (since 2000) in the Department of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Automation . He earned his PhD in 2006 from SWU on mathematical models of the genetic code and a Doctor of Science (DSc) in 2020 on computer graphics for research visualization. Education & Qualifications: Graduated in Mathematics from SWU (1992–1997). Defended two major theses: "Mathematical models for the study of the optimality of the modern genetic code" (PhD, 2006) and "Computer graphics - a tool for visualization of research in the university information environment" (DSc, 2020). Professional Contributions: Co-founder and long-term head of SWU’s Master’s program in Bioinformatics.曾 served as Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the SWU journal (2011–2014) and Deputy Head of the Center for Contemporary Bioinformatics Research (2013–2018). Active in national/international projects, including leading the "Bioinformatics Research: Protein Folding, Jumping and Prediction of Biological Activity" project funded by the Ministry of Education. Teaching & Mentorship: Teaches courses like Mathematical Foundations of Cybersecurity, Computer Game Development, and Java Programming at both institutions. Coached SWU’s student programming team (2008–2018) and chaired the XXVII Republican Student Programming Olympiad (2015). Research Focus: Bioinformatics, computer graphics for scientific visualization, cybersecurity, and educational technology innovations. Recent work emphasizes mixed reality applications in autism therapy, molecular visualization for drug discovery, and cybersecurity modeling. Affiliations: Member of the Union of Mathematicians in Bulgaria, Union of Scientists, and Bioinformatics World. Involved in Bulgarian and international academic organizations.
Elena Ivanova Zaharieva-Stoyanova is an Associate Professor at the Technical University of Gabrovo, Bulgaria, specializing in Computer Systems and Technologies. She holds a Doctorate in Automated Design Systems in Knitwear Production (1999) and was appointed Associate Professor in 2005. Her academic career spans over 25 years at the Technical University of Gabrovo, progressing from Assistant to her current position. Dr. Zaharieva-Stoyanova's research focuses on the intersection of computer science and traditional textile arts, particularly developing CAD/CAM systems for knitting and crochet industries. Her work bridges software engineering with cultural heritage preservation, creating digital representations of traditional costumes and developing specialized XML-based languages for craft pattern description. She teaches Object-Oriented Programming and Introduction to Programming at the bachelor's level, and Platform-Independent Programming at the master's level. Her publication record shows a clear progression from foundational CAD system development to sophisticated digital representation of traditional crafts. The most recent articles demonstrate her specialization in XML-based languages for knitting and crochet symbols, color stitch representation, and validation modules for traditional costume digitization. This research trajectory reflects a deep commitment to preserving cultural heritage through technological innovation. Dr. Zaharieva-Stoyanova has participated in numerous scientific projects funded by the Scientific Research Fund from 2001-2017, covering image processing in CAD systems, digital data transmission, and most recently, cloud-based medication monitoring systems. She is a member of both the Union of Scientists in Bulgaria and the Union of Automation and Informatics. Fluent in English and Russian with excellent reading and very good writing and speaking skills in both languages, she has conducted specializations in the Czech Republic and Croatia under the CEEPUS project. Her international collaborations are evident in her publications presented at conferences across Europe including Bulgaria, Serbia, Macedonia, Greece, Spain, Austria, Romania, and Ireland.
Prof. Ivanka Georgieva is a faculty member at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics of the University of Veliko Tarnovo (Bulgaria). Her work focuses on mathematics education , particularly in primary school contexts, and integrates GeoGebra software for geometric problem-solving. University: University of Veliko Tarnovo School: Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics Academic Rank: Professor Her research interests include: Mathematics Education (primary & secondary) GeoGebra and Digital Learning Tools Didactics of Algebra and Geometry STEM Education Problem-Solving Methodologies Cognitive Development in Mathematics Recent publications emphasize: Interactive geometry teaching Mathematical modeling in primary education Integration of mathematical software in curricula Exponential equations in secondary education 3D geometric visualization Key projects led include: "Иновативни модели за математическо образование" (2025) "Приложение на системи за компютърна математика" (2020-2025) "Изследване на математически структури и дидактически технологии" (2020)
