Professor George Britovsek (FRSC) is a leading figure in catalysis and sustainable carbon management at Imperial College London . As Director of the MRes in Catalysis & Engineering and Head of Teaching in Inorganic Chemistry, he bridges academic leadership with cutting-edge research. His work focuses on transition metal complexes for converting ethylene , alkanes , biomass , and CO₂ into valuable chemicals and fuels through industrial collaborations. Education : M.Sc. (Technical University of Aachen, 1990), Ph.D. (Aachen, 1993) under Prof. W. Keim Postdoctoral Training : University of Tasmania (1994-1996), Imperial College London (1996-2000) His research interests span: Selective oxidation of alkanes using bio-inspired iron complexes Alkene conversions to functional polymers via novel catalysts CO₂ valorization into polymers and cyclic carbonates Biomass-derived feedstocks for chemical synthesis Recent catalysis trends highlight his work on: Designing Fe-N/C catalysts for epoxidation Developing PN3P pincer ligands for H₂ activation Creating degradable polyethylene via iron-catalyzed chain growth Modeling alternating α-olefin distributions in chromium systems Awards : Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC) Students & Collaborators actively engage in: Photocatalytic polymer degradation Electrocatalytic CO₂ conversion Functionalized polymeric materials 3D-printed catalytic scaffolds His Britovsek Research Group operates at the Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City Campus, advancing both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis through experimental and computational approaches.
Nedim Pervan is a Full Professor at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. His academic position focuses on mechanical engineering with emphasis on product design, structural analysis, and biomechanical applications. He maintains an active research profile with numerous publications and collaborations across various engineering disciplines, with office hours every workday from 09:00 to 10:00 in room 314. Professor Pervan's research interests span multiple domains of mechanical engineering. He has made significant contributions to additive manufacturing, particularly in polymer gear production and analysis. His work explores mechanical properties, failure mechanisms, and service life of polymer gears manufactured through additive processes. Additionally, he has conducted extensive research on external fixation devices used in orthopedic treatments, analyzing their biomechanical characteristics and structural stability under various loading conditions. His expertise extends to finite element analysis, structural optimization, and the application of 3D scanning technologies within Industry 4.0 contexts. His research demonstrates a strong connection between theoretical engineering principles and practical applications across automotive, medical devices, and manufacturing industries. His recent publication record reveals a strong trend toward interdisciplinary research bridging mechanical engineering with biomedical applications and advanced manufacturing technologies. A significant portion of his work focuses on polymer gears and additive manufacturing, examining material properties and performance characteristics. Another substantial research stream involves biomechanical engineering, particularly the analysis of external fixation devices. His publications demonstrate a methodological approach combining experimental testing with finite element analysis. More recently, his research has expanded into 3D scanning applications in manufacturing and the electrification of transportation systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Professor Pervan has been involved in numerous research projects that have advanced the capabilities of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. These include the "Integrated Intelligent CAD System for Interactive Design, Analysis and Prototyping of Compression and Torsion Springs" (2022), "Opremanje Laboratorije za razvoj i dizajn proizvoda" (2020), and "Modernizacija Laboratorije za ispitivanje mašinskih konstrukcija" (2019-2020). These projects have focused on developing advanced laboratory facilities, intelligent CAD systems, and equipment for mechanical design and analysis, with several specifically targeting 3D scanning technology implementation. His collaborative work extends across multiple research teams within the Department of Mechanical Constructions at the University of Sarajevo. He frequently collaborates with researchers including Adis Muminović, Elmedin Mešić, and Muamer Delić on projects related to additive manufacturing, biomechanical engineering, and structural analysis. His research group appears actively involved in both theoretical and applied engineering research with practical industrial and medical applications, contributing significantly to Bosnia and Herzegovina's engineering research landscape.
Prof. Dr. Armido Studer is a Full Professor of Organic Chemistry at the Institute of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Münster (WWU Münster), Germany. He has been serving as a Full Professor (W3) since November 2009, following his appointment as a Full Professor (C4) in 2004. Studer also serves as the Spokesman of the International Research Training Group IRTG 2678 'Functional π-Systems: Activation, Interaction and Application (pi-Sys)' since 2021 and previously led the Collaborative Research Center SFB 858 'Synergetic Effects in Chemistry - From Additivity towards Cooperativity' from 2010 to 2021. Studer received his education at ETH Zürich, where he completed his diploma thesis and doctoral studies under Prof. Dr. D. Seebach. He conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Pittsburgh with Prof. Dr. D. P. Curran before returning to ETH Zürich for his habilitation. His academic career includes positions as Associate Professor at Philipps-Universität Marburg (2000-2004) and subsequent professorships at WWU Münster. Professor Studer's research focuses on radical chemistry, particularly in the development of new synthetic methods using radical intermediates. His work spans free radical chemistry, electron catalysis, and the application of nitroxides in organic synthesis. Recent research directions include 'Radical Chemistry with the Hydrogen Atom Through Water Activation (H-dot)' and 'The Electron as a Catalyst: e-cat', both funded by ERC Advanced Grants. His group has made significant contributions to C-H functionalization, skeletal editing of heterocycles, and cooperative catalysis involving photoredox and N-heterocyclic carbene systems. The research has applications in pharmaceutical chemistry, materials science, and sustainable chemical synthesis. Studer's publication record shows a strong focus on heterocyclic chemistry, radical reactions, and catalytic methodologies. His recent work demonstrates expertise in meta-selective functionalization of heteroarenes, skeletal editing techniques, and the development of novel radical cascade reactions. The group has published extensively in high-impact journals including Nature, Science, JACS, and Angewandte Chemie. Adolf-von-Baeyer-Denkmünze (2025) Arthur C. Cope Late Career Scholars Award of the American Chemical Society (2024) ERC Advanced Grants (2024, 2016) Multiple Highly Cited Researcher designations (2017-2022) Elected member of multiple academies (European Academy of Sciences, Academia Europaea, German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina) Pedler Award of the Royal Society of Chemistry (2019) Professor Studer has mentored over 100 PhD students and postdoctoral researchers who have gone on to successful careers in academia and industry worldwide. His research is supported by significant grants including multiple ERC Advanced Grants and funding from the German Research Council (DFG) for collaborative research centers. The Studer Group maintains numerous international collaborations, particularly with institutions in Japan, China, and the United States, reflecting his global impact in organic chemistry. The Studer Group operates state-of-the-art laboratories at the University of Münster, equipped for advanced organic synthesis, photochemistry, and materials characterization. The group is known for its collaborative culture and has been featured in numerous group photos documenting its evolution since the early 2000s, first at Philipps-Universität Marburg and then at WWU Münster.
Ovijit Chaudhuri is an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University, with a courtesy appointment in Bioengineering. He leads research at the interface of mechanics and biology, focusing on how cellular and extracellular mechanical properties influence biological processes like cancer progression and tissue formation. His work employs advanced tools such as atomic force microscopy and 3D cell culture systems. Education: Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley/San Francisco (Bioengineering, 2009) B.S., University of California, Berkeley (Engineering Physics, 2003) Postdoctoral Fellow, Harvard University (Biomaterials, 2013) Research Interests: His lab explores molecular mechanisms behind cellular mechanics, extracellular matrix dynamics, and how mechanical cues regulate cell behavior. Key areas include cancer metastasis, mechanotransduction, and engineered biomaterials for 3D cell culture. Publications Trends: Recent work emphasizes viscoelastic hydrogels, matrix mechanics in cancer progression, and mechanistic insights into cell migration. Over 50 publications since 2015 highlight interdisciplinary approaches in biomaterials and mechanobiology. Awards: Not explicitly listed in provided materials. Advising & Labs: No specific advisee names listed, but his lab focuses on collaborative projects in mechano-biology. Active in developing biomaterial systems for drug discovery and tissue engineering applications. Labs/Teams: Leads the Chaudhuri Lab at Stanford, which integrates engineering principles with biological systems to address complex disease mechanisms and therapeutic strategies.
Jennica Zaro, PhD, serves as Associate Professor of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Southern California (USC) School of Pharmacy and Assistant Dean for Assessment in the Office of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Studies. Previously, she held academic leadership roles at West Coast University School of Pharmacy and directed the Translational Research and Histology laboratories at USC Mann. Education: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California BS, Stockton University Her pioneering research focuses on engineering recombinant fusion proteins for targeted drug delivery, particularly developing liver-specific insulin therapies for diabetes and pH-sensitive nanoconstructs for tumor targeting. This interdisciplinary work bridges protein engineering, nanomedicine, and translational pharmacology to create site-specific therapeutic systems with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a cohesive research trajectory centered on protein-drug conjugates, with significant contributions in pH-responsive delivery systems (2017-2018) and liver-targeted insulin analogs (2016-2018). Her work consistently appears in high-impact journals like Journal of Controlled Release and Biomaterials , demonstrating expertise in translating molecular designs into therapeutic applications. Scientific Awards: Most Innovative Award (2017, West Coast University) Advisor of the Year Award (2017, West Coast University, School of Pharmacy) Dr. Zaro has secured substantial research funding as Principal Investigator for NIH National Cancer Institute projects (2013-2016) and USC Ming Hsieh Institute grants (2014-2015), plus consultancy roles with Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (2016-2018). She actively shapes national research policy through service on NIH and UK Medical Research Council review panels and the American Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education Board of Grants. Her laboratory expertise includes the Translational Research and Histology core facilities at USC Mann, and she maintains active roles in professional organizations including the Controlled Release Society, American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists, and American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy.
Matthias Barz is a Professor of Biotherapeutic Delivery at the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR) , Faculty of Science , Leiden University . He leads the Barz Lab , focusing on polymer science and biomedical applications of functional nanoparticles. Professor of Biotherapeutic Delivery (Leiden University) Head of the Division of BioTherapeutics Researcher in reactive polymer systems and nanocarrier design His research bridges polymer chemistry with biomedical applications, emphasizing polypept(o)ide-based nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery in cancer, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases. Key areas include: Stimuli-responsive polymer architectures Secondary structure-driven self-assembly Core-crosslinked micelles for controlled cargo release Redox-sensitive disulfide bonds for intracellular delivery Protein-repellent nanoparticle shells Riboflavin-functionalized nanocarriers for tumor targeting The lab's publications highlight advancements in polysarcosine-containing copolymers , orthogonal functional group utilization , and modular nanoparticle platforms with precise control over morphology and function. Current projects explore the clinical translation of these systems for immunotherapy and diagnostics. Scientific recognition includes: Dozentenpreis des Fonds der Chemischen Industrie (2018) PMSE Young Investigator Award (2018) Nachwuchswissenschaftlerstipendium der GDCh (2017) His team trains graduate students in polymer synthesis, nanoparticle characterization, and biomedical application testing. Collaborations span institutions like the University of Tokyo and Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz , with ongoing projects under the SFB 1066 initiative for malignant melanoma immunotherapy.
Eric Collet is a University Professor and Head of Department at the Institute of Physics of Rennes (IPR), a joint research unit of CNRS and Université de Rennes. His work centers on ultrafast photoinduced phase transitions, spin-crossover materials, and the control of functional materials using light and THz excitation. He leads a dynamic research team and is deeply involved in international collaborations, particularly through the IM-LED International Laboratory with Japan. University: University of Rennes School: Institute of Physics of Rennes Department: Department of Materials and Light Academic Rank: Professor Email: eric.collet@univ-rennes.fr Professor Collet's research explores the ultrafast dynamics of molecular and condensed matter systems, especially those exhibiting multistability and photoresponsiveness. His work combines femtosecond optical and X-ray techniques to probe structural and electronic changes at atomic scales. Key areas include spin-crossover phenomena, photomagnetism, ferroelasticity, and nonlinear phononics. He investigates how light can trigger cooperative responses in materials, leading to persistent phase transitions with applications in photonics and memory devices. The recent publications of Eric Collet reveal a strong focus on ultrafast structural dynamics, photoinduced charge and spin transitions, and the coupling of electronic states with lattice distortions. His team frequently employs advanced X-ray methods at large-scale facilities like ESRF and LCLS. The research spans from fundamental quantum dynamics to applied materials science, with recurring themes in symmetry breaking, cooperative switching, and room-temperature photoresponse in molecular systems. Scientific awards and recognitions include: CNRS Silver Medal (2020) Louis Ancel Prize, French Physical Society Hot Paper selection in PCCP (2019) Very Important Paper recognition in Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. (2019) News & Views feature in Nature Chemistry (2020) Eric Collet actively mentors PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, and has supervised numerous publications in top journals. He has led major scientific initiatives such as the UCM2018 symposium and JMC2021 conference. His research is supported by grants from ANR, CNRS, and the Institut Universitaire de France. He collaborates extensively with institutions in France, Japan, and beyond. His research is conducted primarily within the Department of Materials and Light at the Institute of Physics of Rennes. He co-directs the IM-LED International Laboratory with Prof. Shin-ichi Ohkoshi (University of Tokyo) and collaborates with groups in Bordeaux, Lebanon, and Japan. His lab specializes in time-resolved X-ray diffraction, ultrafast spectroscopy, and nonlinear optical control of materials.
Kay Severin is a full professor at the Laboratory of Supramolecular Chemistry (LCS) within École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) , Switzerland. His research focuses on the design and reactivity of metal-ligand assemblies, including coordination cages, metalloligands, and supramolecular receptors. He has pioneered the use of metalloligands for constructing heterometallic architectures and developed systems for anion extraction and stimuli-responsive hydrogels. Key funder: Swiss National Science Foundation (FNS) Collaborative work with Rosario Scopelliti and Farzaneh Fadaei Tirani Research Interests: Severin's work spans supramolecular chemistry, organometallic synthesis, and functional materials. Recent projects include: Dynamic palladium-based hydrogels with anion-responsive crosslinks Gold(I)-driven nano-onion structures via π-stacking Triazene-derived ligands for Sandmeyer-type reactions Metalloligand assembly of Fe/Pd/Au heterotrimetallic cages Publication Trends: Over 300 publications since 1994, with recent emphasis on: Coordination-driven self-assembly (2024: 6 articles) Triazene and diazoolefin reactivity (2025: 4 articles) Metal-ligand interactions in nanogels and vesicles (2024-2025: 3 articles) Environmental applications in anion extraction (2025: 1 article)
Simone D. Castellarin is a Professor in the Department of Applied Biology at the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Land and Food Systems, and holds the Canada Research Chair Tier 2 in Viticulture. His research focuses on the molecular and physiological mechanisms governing berry ripening and composition in grapes, blueberries, and raspberries, with emphasis on genomic regulation under environmental stressors like heatwaves and drought. PhD in Plant Biology from the University of Udine (2007) Postdoctoral training at Hochschule Geisenheim University and University of California Davis Research areas include terpene biosynthesis, jasmonate signaling, cuticular wax dynamics, and agronomic strategies for climate change mitigation. Key projects involve remote sensing for vineyard zoning , hormone application effects , and genetic studies of berry quality traits . His work spans collaborations with industry bodies like the BC Wine and Grape Council and academic partners including the Cantu Lab at UC Davis. Recent publications highlight genomic analyses of terpene synthases, water deficit impacts on metabolites, and postharvest quality assessments. Awards include the 2009 Rudolf Hermanns Prize for viticultural research. He supervises numerous PhD and Master's students, and leads the Castellarin Lab at UBC's Wine Research Centre.
Dr. Claudia Fernandez Martin is a Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) in Chemical Engineering at the University of Aberdeen, School of Engineering. She is actively involved in research and teaching, with a focus on carbon capture technologies and sustainable materials. She serves as Coordinator of Level 5 and Coordinator of the Environmental & Biodiversity Theme in the School of Engineering, and as Champion of the Circular Economy Theme at the Centre for Energy Transition. Dr. Fernandez Martin's educational background includes: PhD in "Microporous adsorbents from organic polymers. Application in precombustion CO 2 capture processes" (2011) from the University of Oviedo, Spain (Summa Cum Laude) MSc in Research in Technology, Diversification, Quality and Energy Saving (2009) from the University of Oviedo, Spain MEng in Environmental Sciences, 1st Class (2000-2005) from the University of Granada, Spain Her research interests focus on materials and gas separation processes for carbon capture, including the synthesis of advanced materials for CO 2 capture, characterization of adsorbents, enhancement of CO 2 recovery through novel regeneration technologies, and recycling of polymeric waste. She has developed expertise in microwave-assisted technologies for carbon capture intensification and plastic waste conversion into valuable materials. Dr. Fernandez Martin's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on sustainable solutions for carbon capture and waste valorization. Her work spans from developing novel adsorbents from waste materials to exploring microwave-assisted processes for more energy-efficient carbon capture. She has made significant contributions to understanding transfer hydrogenation of CO 2 and the conversion of plastic waste into functional materials for environmental applications. Her scientific achievements have been recognized through several awards: Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (Advance HE) - 2020 Santander Mobility Award - 2017 ETP-PECRE Award - 2017 Santander Mobility Award - 2016 PhD Scholarship 'JAE-PreDoc' funded by the Spanish Research Council (CSIC) - 2007-2011 As an educator, Dr. Fernandez Martin teaches courses including Environmental Engineering (EA4027), Air & Water Pollution Control (EX501U), and supervises individual and group design projects at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. She is also the General Secretary of AMPERE (Association for Microwave Power in Europe for Research and Education), highlighting her leadership in microwave research applications. She actively supervises PhD students and welcomes new PhD candidates interested in her research areas, particularly in engineering with a focus on carbon capture, sustainable materials, and waste valorization technologies.
H. Jerry Qi is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology. He specializes in finite deformation multiphysics modeling of soft active materials, with a focus on shape memory polymers, 4D printing, and material recycling. His research integrates experimental and computational approaches to advance additive manufacturing technologies. Education: Sc.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2003 Ph.D., Tsinghua University, China, 1999 B.S., Tsinghua University, China, 1994 Research Interests: Dr. Qi's work spans 4D printing of active materials, mechanics in 3D printing, and sustainable polymer processing. His group develops hybrid printing methods and recyclable thermosetting polymers, collaborating with institutions like SUTD and AFRL. Key areas include smart material design, photomechanical experiments, and finite element modeling. Scientific Awards: ASME Fellow (2015) Woodruff Faculty Fellow (2015) J. T. Oden Faculty Fellowship (2012) NSF Career Award (2007) Advising & Grants: Dr. Qi actively seeks undergraduate, PhD, and postdoc researchers. His projects are funded by NSF, AFOSR, and industry partnerships. He leads a research group focused on advancing active materials and sustainable manufacturing. Labs & Teams: His lab integrates computational modeling, experimental mechanics, and additive manufacturing to create innovative materials and structures for applications in aerospace, biomedical, and environmental engineering.
Ferhan Çeçen is a Professor at the Institute of Environmental Sciences, Boğaziçi University (Istanbul, Turkey). He has held academic positions since 1990, including Professor since 1999, and has conducted research in environmental engineering and biotechnology. His expertise includes water/wastewater treatment, environmental biotechnology, and adsorption processes. Education: Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (1990) M.S. in Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (1993) B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Boğaziçi University (1984) Research Interests: Prof. Çeçen focuses on advanced water treatment technologies, including nanosilver effects on biological systems, biodegradation of pharmaceuticals, and adsorption using activated carbon. His work emphasizes practical solutions for hazardous pollutant mitigation in biological treatment systems. Key areas include: Environmental biotechnology applications Biodegradation kinetics and modeling Activated carbon integration in wastewater systems Toxicology of nanomaterials in water treatment Recent Projects (2015–2023): He leads projects funded by Boğaziçi University BAP and TÜBİTAK, including studies on micropollutant removal via granular activated carbon, nanosilver effects on biological systems, and biodegradation of pharmaceuticals. These projects address emerging contaminants and sustainable treatment methods. Grants and Advising: His grants include BAP-funded research on micropollutant adsorption and TÜBİTAK support for microbial product inhibition studies. He has advised numerous graduate students on environmental engineering topics, though specific student names are not listed in the provided texts. Labs and Teams: His research group collaborates on experimental and computational studies, focusing on lab/pilot-scale testing of water treatment innovations. Key facilities include Boğaziçi University's environmental engineering labs and partnerships with institutions like Munich Technical University.
Rahul Mangal serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur). His academic profile demonstrates expertise in polymer physics, colloids, complex fluids, nanocomposites, active matter, and liquid crystals. Dr. Mangal completed his PhD at Cornell University in 2016, followed by a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Wisconsin Madison (2016-2017). He earned his B Tech-M Tech dual degree from IIT Kanpur in 2010. Prior to his academic career, he gained industry experience as a Manager at Reliance Industries Limited in Jamnagar, Gujarat from July 2010 to July 2012. His research program focuses on the experimental investigation of colloid-polymer interactions in nanocomposite systems. Specifically, his group studies how colloids (1-1000 nm) interact with polymeric hosts to influence fundamental properties including phase behavior, rheology, and colloidal diffusion. His work explores the novel properties that emerge when colloids are added to polymer melts, block copolymers, and liquid crystals, with applications in energy devices, photonics, and bio-medicines. Dr. Mangal's research has produced significant publications in high-impact journals including Nature Communications, Langmuir, and Macromolecules, demonstrating his contributions to understanding polymer-nanoparticle systems and their applications in energy storage technologies. Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant, Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University (2016) McMullen Fellowship, Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University (2012) His work bridges fundamental polymer physics with practical applications, particularly in developing advanced materials for energy storage solutions. Dr. Mangal maintains an active research program that continues to explore the complex behavior of polymer-nanoparticle systems to engineer materials with precisely controlled properties for targeted applications.
Mohsen Habibi is an Assistant Professor at the University of California, Davis, leading the Advanced Manufacturing Lab (AML). His research focuses on Additive Manufacturing (AM), particularly pioneering Direct Sound Printing (DSP), an ultrasound-based technique for 3D printing via sonochemistry and thermochemistry. His work has been recognized with the David Dornfeld Manufacturing Vision Award (2024), NSF Blue Sky Competition win, and inclusion in Quebec Science magazine's top 10 discoveries of 2022. Before academia, Dr. Habibi worked as a senior manufacturing engineer at General Motors and mechanical designer at MDA (a space technology firm). He held roles as a research associate at Concordia University and a postdoctoral fellow at the University of British Columbia, collaborating with industries like Pratt & Whitney and MAL Inc. His research bridges acoustic physics, materials science, and biomedical engineering, emphasizing non-invasive applications such as in-situ tissue printing and remote polymerization. Research Highlights: His lab explores holographic DSP for complex patterns, minimally invasive medical applications, and sustainable 3D printing systems for underserved regions. Key areas include metamaterials, acoustic holography, and energy-efficient manufacturing. Awards & Recognition: David Dornfeld Manufacturing Vision Award (2024) NSF Blue Sky Competition Winner Quebec Science Magazine's Top 10 Discoveries (2022) Altmetric 99th percentile for DSP publication impact Lab Activities: The AML develops technologies like Remote Distance Printing (RDP) for inaccessible locations and Holographic DSP (HDSP) for multi-pattern fabrication. Projects include acoustic-matter interaction studies and CAD/CAM process optimization.
Jennifer L. West is the Dean of the University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science and holds the Saunders Family Professorship in Engineering. She is a dual professor in Biomedical Engineering and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Dean West has a 30-year record as a researcher, educator, inventor, and entrepreneur, focusing on biomaterials, nanotechnology, and tissue engineering to address unmet medical needs, particularly in cancer therapy. Her education includes a B.S. from MIT (1992) and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin (1996). Before UVA, she was at Duke University as the Fitzpatrick Family Distinguished Professor of Engineering and Associate Dean for Ph.D. Education. Research Interests: Biomaterials and biosynthesis Nanotechnology and tissue engineering Cancer therapy through engineered materials Scientific Awards: Member of the National Academy of Medicine (2023) Member of the National Academy of Engineering (2016) Over 20 patents, including foundational work for Nanospectra Biosciences’ clinical trials in cancer therapy Grants & Initiatives: Leading UVA Engineering’s focus on research, experiential learning, and entrepreneurship Recipient of a $900,000 grant for character-building education initiatives Labs & Teams: Developed hydrogel platforms for tissue integration, vascularization, and drug delivery Pioneered gold nanoshell-based photothermal cancer therapy
