Dr. Rajesh Bera is a Research Fellow at ICFO's Functional Optoelectronic Nanomaterials group specializing in quantum-confined nanostructures. His research examines ultrafast carrier dynamics, excitonic properties, and optoelectronic applications of nanomaterials including quantum dots, nanoplatelets, and hybrid nanostructures. Current investigations focus on intraband transitions in doped nanocrystals, orientation-dependent excitonic behavior in 2D materials, and charge transfer mechanisms in heterostructure devices. Work bridges fundamental photophysics with applications in photodetection, sensing, and energy conversion. Recent publications demonstrate expertise in time-resolved spectroscopy of quantum materials, nanomaterial synthesis via colloidal chemistry, and rational design of optoelectronic devices. Continually develops novel characterization methods to probe ultrafast processes at nanoscale interfaces.
Richard D. Noble is a Research Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Colorado Boulder. His research focuses on advanced membrane technologies for gas and liquid separations, with particular expertise in ionic liquids, liquid crystals, and the application of external fields for selective separations. He maintains an active laboratory in Cristol Chemistry (room 357) and collaborates extensively with Professor Doug Gin on many research projects. Noble received his BE and ME from Stevens Institute of Technology in 1968 and 1969 respectively, followed by a Ph.D. from the University of California, Davis in 1976. His educational background in engineering has provided a strong foundation for his research in chemical engineering and materials science. Professor Noble's research program centers on three interconnected areas. His primary focus is on ionic liquids for gas separations , where he evaluates various ionic liquids and complexation chemistry to tailor material properties to specific feed mixtures. He explores composite polymer/IL structures and incorporation of complexation chemistry and zeolites, and has developed specialized apparatus to measure gas solubility and diffusivity in ionic liquids. This work is conducted in collaboration with Professor Doug Gin. His second research thrust involves the use of external fields for selective separations . Noble studies how electric or light energy can enhance separation processes by changing binding affinity of complexing agents. His notable achievement is an electrochemical pump with no moving parts that produces pressures exceeding 20 atm, with applications in lab-on-a-chip and micro-scale devices. He also develops charged polymer structures for membrane separators with wide temperature and chemical stability. His third major area focuses on liquid crystals organized to form nanostructured polymer network films. These cross-linked stable films are evaluated for nanofiltration applications, particularly in water filtration including treatment of water from fracking operations. This work often intersects with his ionic liquids research, creating composite structures with potential applications in electrochemical pumps. Noble's publication record from 2017-2019 shows consistent focus on membrane technologies for separation processes, with increasing sophistication in membrane design incorporating ionic liquids, liquid crystals, and novel materials like pillar[5]arenes. His work demonstrates a clear trend toward addressing practical industrial challenges, particularly in natural gas purification (CO 2 /CH 4 separation) and environmental applications (treatment of fracking wastewater). His collaborations have produced high-impact work published in top journals including Nature Materials , Journal of Membrane Science , and Angewandte Chemie . Professor Noble has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his contributions: AIChE Institute Service to Society Award (2005) Alfred T. and Betty E. Look Professor of Chemical Engineering (2005-present) Multiple Outstanding Graduate Teaching Awards from the Chemical Engineering Department (2006-2008) ACS Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Division Fellow (2007) CU Boulder Inventor of the Year (2008) Barrer Lecture at Penn State University (2008) Fellow at the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute (2009-2012) Robert L. Stearns Award from CU Alumni Association (2010) Chair d'Excellence Pierre de Fermat at Paul Sabatier University, Toulouse (2010) AIChE Institute Excellence in Industrial Gas Technology Award (2010) And numerous others through 2015 While specific grant details aren't provided, Noble's extensive publication record with multiple co-authors suggests active research mentoring and well-funded projects. His work on sophisticated apparatus and high-quality publications indicates substantial research support. His collaborations, especially with Doug Gin, suggest a strong research group environment focused on membrane science and separation technologies. Professor Noble's research operates at the intersection of chemistry, chemical engineering, and materials science. His laboratory includes facilities for membrane fabrication, gas separation testing, and characterization of novel materials. The development of specialized apparatus for measuring gas properties in ionic liquids suggests dedicated equipment for fundamental property measurements. His work on electrochemical pumps indicates capabilities in microfluidics and device fabrication, with the collaborative nature of his research suggesting a team approach to tackling complex separation challenges.
Yan Liu is a full professor in the Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science at the University of Southern California (USC), serving as Director of the USC Machine Learning Center within the Viterbi School of Engineering. He holds courtesy appointments in the Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical Engineering and the Quantitative and Computational Biology Department. Before joining USC in 2010, he was a research staff member at IBM's T.J. Watson Research Center. He earned his M.S. and Ph.D. from Carnegie Mellon University. His research focuses on machine learning for time series, physics-informed AI, and interpretable models, with applications in healthcare, sustainability, and social media. Notable projects include developing AI for surgical training, analyzing misinformation on social platforms, and predicting cancer treatment outcomes. He has held leadership roles in top conferences like ICLR and ACM KDD, and serves as Associate Editor-in-Chief of TPAMI and Board Member of ICLR. Education: Ph.D., Carnegie Mellon University Affiliations: USC Machine Learning Center, Viterbi School of Engineering Service: General Chair (ICLR 2023, ACM KDD 2020), Program Chair roles across multiple conferences His lab, the Melady Group, emphasizes foundational ML advancements and interdisciplinary applications. Recent work includes physics-aware neural networks and time-series foundation models.
Dr. Gregory Perry is a Lecturer in Organic Chemistry at the University of Southampton (UK), leading an independent research group focused on discovering novel reactivity for molecular synthesis and transformation. His career includes postdoctoral research at Nagoya University and Kyoto University, and previous fixed-term lecturer roles at the University of Manchester. Research Interests: Organic synthesis with a focus on catalysis Carbon and nitrogen isotope labelling techniques Metal-halogen exchange reactions CO2 utilization in synthetic chemistry Transition-metal-free cross-coupling methods Notable Contributions: His recent work explores sulfonium salts for aromatic coupling, sustainable biaryl synthesis, and stomatal-regulating molecule development. Articles span topics like organolithium reagents, bimetallic catalysis, and molecular semiconductor synthesis. Academic Background: MChem in Chemistry (2012), University of Liverpool PhD in Organic Chemistry (2016), University of Manchester Current Collaborations: Affiliated with the ChemLife Network, Institute for Life Sciences, and groups led by Professors Hideki Yorimitsu and David J. Procter.
Carl-Gösta Ojala serves as Senior Lecturer at Uppsala University's Department of Archaeology, Ancient History and Cultural Preservation, where his research bridges archaeological practice with critical examinations of colonial history and indigenous heritage. His academic profile demonstrates deep engagement with Sámi communities across historical periods, from Bronze Age material culture studies to contemporary issues of cultural preservation and indigenous rights. Dr. Ojala's research program centers on decolonizing archaeological methodologies through rigorous analysis of how colonial frameworks have shaped archaeological knowledge production in Northern Europe. His work particularly examines the historical collection of Sámi material culture and human remains, the impact of colonial infrastructure projects like hydroelectric dams on indigenous heritage sites, and the political dimensions of archaeological interpretation in Sápmi. He investigates how archaeological narratives have been constructed within colonial contexts and how contemporary practice can better incorporate indigenous perspectives. An analysis of his recent publications reveals evolving scholarly attention from historical colonial practices to their contemporary implications for indigenous self-determination and cultural heritage management. His 2023-2025 works demonstrate increasing focus on Sámi mobilities, dammed heritage, and the politics of archaeological representation, reflecting a trajectory toward more applied, community-engaged scholarship that addresses ongoing colonial legacies in cultural heritage institutions. Dr. Ojala has established himself as a critical voice in Nordic archaeological discourse through numerous book chapters, journal articles, and edited volumes including 'Archaeologies of "Us" and "Them": Debating History, Heritage and Indigeneity' (2017). His scholarship consistently challenges conventional archaeological paradigms while offering constructive frameworks for more ethical, collaborative research practices with indigenous communities in Northern Europe.
Norwegian University of Science And TechnologyNorway
Roy Johnsen is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), specializing in corrosion and surface technology. With a Dr.ing. degree from NTH (1984), he has extensive industry experience from Statoil Research Centre (1985-1991) and CorrOcean (1991-2004), where he expanded the company globally. His current research focuses on hydrogen embrittlement, corrosion protection, and integrity management in offshore systems, with collaborations across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Heather M.-L. Miller serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM), currently on academic leave for the 2025-2026 term. Dr. Miller's educational background includes a PhD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (1999) alongside MA, MSc, and BA degrees, though specific institutions for the latter are not detailed in the provided materials. PhD, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1999 MA (institution and year not specified) MSc (institution and year not specified) BA (institution and year not specified) Her research specializes in South Asian archaeology, with emphasis on prehistoric and historic complex societies. Key areas include ancient technology, material culture analysis, social organization, regional interconnections, and agricultural systems. Current projects focus on medieval Islamic trade routes in northwestern Pakistan, particularly through the Caravanserai Networks Project which examines economic and social aspects of historical travel routes. Analysis of Dr. Miller's recent publications reveals a strong focus on the Indus Civilization and South Asian archaeology, with increasing attention to medieval periods. Her work integrates archaeological evidence with historical texts to explore trade networks, technological practices, and socio-economic organization, demonstrating an interdisciplinary approach that bridges anthropology, history, and material science. Scientific Awards: No specific awards or honors are mentioned in the provided information. Dr. Miller mentors graduate students, including Rachele Andrea Bianchi. Her research is supported by competitive grants from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) and the Connaught Foundation at the University of Toronto, enabling fieldwork in Pakistan and database development for historical trade routes. She is an active member of the Trent University Archaeology Research Centre (TUARC) and the Centre for South Asian Studies at the University of Toronto. Her field research involves collaboration with the Directorate for Archaeology and Museums of the Northwest Frontier Province (NWFP) in Pakistan and international scholars, fostering cross-border academic partnerships.
Associate Professor Judy Hart is a materials scientist at the School of Materials Science & Engineering, UNSW Sydney , specializing in the development of semiconducting materials for renewable energy applications. Her work integrates computational (DFT) and experimental approaches to understand composition-property relationships in systems like solid solutions , heterostructures , and doped materials for photocatalysis and solar cells . She leads projects funded by ARC Discovery and Linkage grants , including work on photo-electro-catalysis systems and stabilizing ceramic materials . Education: PhD in Materials Engineering (Monash University, 2007), BEng (Materials) (Monash, 2002) Professional Experience: Senior Lecturer (UNSW, 2017–), Lecturer (UNSW, 2013–2017), University of Bristol (2007–2012) Research Interests Her research focuses on designing materials for renewable energy , particularly photoelectrochemical water splitting and organic oxidation reactions . Key areas include Density Functional Theory (DFT) , defect engineering , band gap tuning , and nanostructured materials . She investigates ferroelectric polarization effects , metal oxide heterostructures , and stability of battery components , with applications in hydrogen production , CO2 conversion , and advanced battery materials . Scientific Awards Ramsay Memorial Fellowship (University of Bristol, 2007–2009) Teaching Contributions She is co-author of the 1st Australian & New Zealand edition of "Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction" , and teaches courses on computational materials science , corrosion-resistant surfaces , mechanical behavior of metals , and materials design .
HUANG Fei is a Professor of Chinese History and Society in the Department of Chinese Studies at the Faculty of Humanities, University of Tübingen, Germany. She has held this position since 2020, following a Junior Professorship at the same institution from 2014 to 2020. Her academic journey began with a BA in History from Sun Yat-sen University (Guangzhou, 2005) and culminated in a PhD in Chinese Studies from Leiden University (2012). University: University of Tübingen School: Faculty of Humanities Department: Department of Chinese Studies Academic Rank: Professor Email: fei.huang@uni-tuebingen.de Her research spans an interdisciplinary terrain, combining landscape studies, environmental history, history of the body, cultural geography, historical anthropology, art history, and material culture studies . Her work primarily investigates China’s historical development from the 16th to the 20th century, with a regional focus on Southwest China, especially Yunnan, and thematic attention to frontier dynamics, urban environments, and the interplay between natural resources and cultural memory. Professor Huang’s recent publications reveal a consistent and evolving scholarly trajectory centered on the transformation of natural and urban landscapes. Her research on hot springs —such as Huaqing Hot Springs—explores their roles in public health, urban planning, and ideological representation in modern China. Her earlier work on Dongchuan examines how imperial and local actors reshaped frontier landscapes through cultural representation, religious practice, and economic interests. Articles on sulfur manufacturing, bathing culture, and Tusi succession highlight her ability to connect local practices with broader global and environmental networks. Scientific Awards and Recognition: No specific awards or fellowships are mentioned in the provided texts. Advising and Grants: She supervises PhD and Master’s theses in Chinese history and culture, though specific student names are not listed. No explicit mention of grants or funded research projects is made in the texts, but her extensive publication record in top-tier journals suggests active research engagement. Labs and Research Teams: She is affiliated with the Department of Chinese Studies at the University of Tübingen and participates in interdisciplinary research within the Faculty of Humanities. Her work often involves collaboration with scholars in anthropology, geography, and environmental history, as evidenced by her co-taught courses and international academic engagement.
Prof. Dr. Benedikt Hensel is a full Professor for Old Testament at the University of Oldenburg , where he serves as Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences since 2025. He co-directs the Institute for Protestant Theology and Religious Education and leads the Digital Biblical Archaeology Oldenburg initiative. Research Focus : Interdisciplinary study of Israelite and ancient Jewish history, digital cultural heritage technologies in Levantine archaeology, and theological interpretation of Hebrew Bible texts. Projects : Hazor Digital (since 2024), Resettlement of Ruins and Memories (Gerda Henkel-funded), and Transjordan and Southern Levant Archaeology (since 2019). His recent publications analyze: Iron Age cultural memory formation in the Southern Levant Edomite-Israelite relations through archaeological and textual evidence Digital reconstruction of biblical sites like Hazor Yahwistic diversity in Persian period Judah and Samaria Theological implications of migration narratives in the Hebrew Bible Scientific Awards : 2018 Armin Schmitt Prize for Biblical Text Research Student Supervision : Currently advising PhD candidates on topics ranging from Idumean trade networks to post-exilic identity formation in biblical texts.
Jonas Monié-Nordin is an Associate Professor at Stockholm University's Department of Archaeology and Classical Studies , specializing in Sámi archaeology , global historical archaeology , and critical cultural heritage studies . His research spans from the High Middle Ages to contemporary societal issues, with particular focus on resource colonialism in Sápmi and Scandinavia's role in early modern globalization. Academic Credentials: PhD in Archaeology (2005, Stockholm University), Docent in Historical Archaeology Ongoing Project: Shared Spaces – Separated Past? (Swedish Science Board funded) investigating Sámi history in Central Scandinavia His interdisciplinary methodology combines material culture analysis, landscape archaeology, and historical source criticism. Recent fieldwork includes excavations of Sámi settlements in Dalarna, Hälsingland, and Uppland. He co-edited Scandinavian Colonialism and the Rise of Modernity (Springer 2013) and authored The Scandinavian Early Modern World (Routledge 2020). Beyond academia, he serves on the Truth Commission for the Sámi People (KU2021.02) and contributes to public debates through media outlets like Dagens Nyheter and Svenska Dagbladet . His work demonstrates how archaeology bridges historical injustice and contemporary reconciliation processes.
Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of BonnGermany
Prof. Ludwig D. Morenz is a Professor of Egyptology at the University of Bonn and Director of the Egyptian Museum Bonn. He holds positions as a Principal Investigator in archaeological research and leads excavations in Egypt. His academic journey includes a Habilitation from the University of Tübingen (2001), a PhD from Leipzig (1994), and extensive postdoctoral fellowships across Europe. His research focuses on Pharaonic socio-economic systems, particularly dependency relationships between state expeditions and Canaanite populations. He examines ancient Egyptian economy, religion, and cultural interactions through material and textual evidence. Key areas include the origins of alphabetic writing, solar deity symbolism, and Roman-Egyptian cultural hybridity. Morenz has secured over €1 million in third-party funding from institutions like the German Research Foundation (DFG) and Gerda Henkel Foundation. He supervises numerous doctoral and master's students, reviewing over 30 theses and international PhDs. His editorial roles include founding journals like Studia Sinaitica and Bonner Ägyptologische Beiträge . Major excavations under his leadership include the Elite Necropolis of Qubbet el Hawa and the Serabit el-Chadim Hathor temple project. He participates in consortia such as the DFG Research Training Group 'Archeology of Pre-Modern Economies' and the International Congress of Egyptologists. Awards: Heisenberg Fellowship (DFG), Feodor Lynen Fellowship (Humboldt Foundation), Herzog-Ernst Scholarship Exhibitions: Curated annual special exhibitions at the Egyptian Museum Bonn, including a landmark show on alphabetic writing origins at Cairo's National Museum Publications: 13 monographs, 4 edited volumes, and over 100 articles
Daniel T. Potts is a Professor of Ancient Near Eastern Archaeology and History at New York University's Institute for the Study of the Ancient World (ISAW). He holds a PhD from Harvard University (1980) in Anthropology, specializing in Near Eastern archaeology, and previously held academic roles at institutions including the Freie Universität Berlin, University of Copenhagen, and the University of Sydney, where he served as the Edwin Cuthbert Hall Chair of Middle Eastern Archaeology until 2012. His research focuses on the archaeology and history of Iran, Mesopotamia, and the Persian Gulf. He has conducted fieldwork in Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, emphasizing excavations at sites like Tepe Yahya and Tell Abraq. His work explores nomadic societies, ancient trade networks, and material culture's role in understanding historical dynamics. Potts is the founding editor-in-chief of *Arabian Archaeology & Epigraphy* and serves as a Corresponding Member of the German Archaeological Institute and ISMEO. His publications include seminal works on Elamite archaeology, UAE prehistory, and the broader Ancient Near East, reflecting his expertise in integrating archaeological evidence with historical records. His advising and grants narrative highlights decades of academic mentorship and leadership in archaeological projects. While specific grant details are not provided, his extensive fieldwork and editorial roles suggest sustained institutional and international support. He has been involved in prominent field teams, including those at Tell Abraq and Tepe Yahya, contributing to the understanding of ancient regional interactions and cultural evolution.
Professor William O'Brien is Professor of Archaeology at University College Cork, specializing in Irish and European prehistory with expertise in Bronze Age copper mining, hillforts, and settlement landscapes. His fieldwork includes 30+ excavation projects across southwest Ireland, redefining understanding of prehistoric metallurgy and social structures. Research examines Chalcolithic/Bronze Age metal-using societies (2500-600 BC), particularly early copper mines like Ross Island and Mount Gabriel. Publications include seminal works on prehistoric mining in Europe and Irish hillfort societies. Recent projects analyze warfare in Late Bronze Age Ireland and coastal promontory forts. Honors: Elected Member, Royal Irish Academy Fellow of Society of Antiquaries of London Higher Doctorate (DLitt) Education: PhD Archaeology, University College Cork MA Archaeology, University College Cork
Helle Vandkilde is a Professor at Aarhus University's Department of Archaeology and Heritage Studies since 2009, with a Docent title at Lund University since 1999. Her work spans Bronze Age Europe, globalization studies, and metallurgy. Current roles: International board member at Kiel's 'Roots' program (2019–2025), Executive Board member of Independent Research Fund Denmark (2019–), Scientific Advisory Board of the National Museum of Denmark (2018–) Research focuses on Bronze Age metallurgy, transcultural warriorhood, prehistoric globalization, and violence. She integrates material culture analysis with theoretical frameworks. Scientific awards include: Doctor Philosophiae Honoris Causa (Lund University, 2019) The Prehistoric Society’s Europa Prize (2017) Ridder af Dannebrog (2014) She participates in peer review panels and committee work globally, emphasizing Bronze Age interconnectivity and cultural mobility.
