Jinhong Meng is a Senior Research Fellow at the Department of Genetics & Genomic Medicine, University College London (UCL), focusing on neuromuscular disorders and gene therapy. He earned his PhD and Bachelor’s degrees from the Fourth Military Medical University. Education: Doctor of Philosophy, Fourth Military Medical University (2000) Bachelor, Fourth Military Medical University (1995) Research Interests: Jinhong Meng’s work centers on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), and gene therapy techniques including CRISPR, lentiviral vectors, and antisense oligonucleotides. His studies explore immune responses to dystrophin, vascular defects in SMA, and dystrophin correction via viral and non-viral delivery systems. Publication Trends: Over the past eight years, Jinhong Meng has published extensively on DMD and SMA, with a focus on gene editing, dystrophin restoration, and cellular therapies. His collaborative work spans lentiviral vectors, foamy virus transduction, and necroptosis mechanisms in muscle degeneration. Labs & Collaborations: He works within UCL’s Genetics & Genomic Medicine Department, collaborating on projects involving dystrophic muscle engraftment, circadian signaling, and RNA editing for genetic mutations.
Stephen M. Shore is a Clinical Associate Professor at Adelphi University's Ruth S. Ammon College of Education and Health Sciences, specializing in autism and Asperger Syndrome with expertise in educational practices, social inclusion, and successful transition to adulthood for individuals on the autism spectrum. Dr. Shore earned his Ed.D. in Education from Boston University (2008), M.A. in Music Education from Boston University (1992), and dual B.A. degrees in Music Education and Accounting and Information Systems from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst (1986). He holds professional teaching licenses in Music and Business Management for Massachusetts public schools (grades 5-12). His research focuses on multiple critical areas including successful transition to adulthood, employment opportunities, comparative approaches for treating children with autism, socially-based inclusion methods, self-advocacy development, teaching musical instruments to individuals on the spectrum, and international perspectives on autism diagnosis and treatment. His work uniquely bridges academic research with practical applications, informed by his personal experience as someone on the autism spectrum. Dr. Shore's publications demonstrate a consistent emphasis on practical applications of autism research across diverse contexts, with recurring themes in educational strategies, inclusion methodologies, and strength-based approaches that leverage individual capabilities rather than focusing on deficits. Member, Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (2008-present) Vice President, Autism Society of America - Massachusetts Chapter (2007-present) Board Member, Autism Society of America - National (2001-2004, 2005-present) Former Board President, Asperger's Association of New England (2001-2006) As an educator, Dr. Shore teaches specialized courses including 'Diagnosis Of And Intervention In Autism,' 'Educating Students With Autism Classified At Level 1,' and 'Classroom Management,' emphasizing evidence-based practices that accommodate neurodiversity while promoting academic and social success.
Peter Newman, Ph.D., serves as Dean of the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Vermont since July 1, 2024, and holds the Suzie and Allen Martin Professor title. With a career spanning decades, he has conducted extensive research on visitor management in protected areas, soundscape management, and transportation planning, partnering with the National Park Service's Natural Sounds and Night Sky Division since 2012. Education Ph.D. in Natural Resources, University of Vermont M.S. in Forest Resource Management, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry B.A. in Political Science, University of Rochester His research focuses on social carrying capacity decision-making in protected area management, with fieldwork across major U.S. parks including Denali, Grand Canyon, and Great Smokies. He has developed frameworks for acoustic management and Leave No Trace efficacy, contributing to sustainable outdoor recreation practices. Scientific Awards: Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit National Award (2012) George Wright Society National Award for Achievement in Social Sciences (2013) Throughout his career, Newman has led high-quality teaching at Penn State's Graduate Degree Program in Acoustics and mentored numerous students through research projects on wildlife approach norms, pandemic recreation shifts, and waste management strategies in national parks. He previously served as a Park Ranger in Yosemite and Backcountry Patrol member in Idaho.
Professor Craig Priest is a faculty member at the University of South Australia within UniSA STEM , focusing on microfluidics , optofluidics , and interfacial science applications. He serves as a Research Degree Supervisor and has contributed to advancements in sensor technology, biomedical engineering, and materials science. Key Research Themes : Development of micropillar array-integrated sensors for rapid vapor detection 3D-printed microstructures to mitigate matrix effects in electrochemical sensing Wettability engineering for passive fluid control in lab-on-a-chip devices PDMS-PS bonding protocols enabling robust cell culture platforms like Heart-Dyno Collaborations & Grants : Collaborated with Queensland University of Technology and QIMR Berghofer on biomedical devices Involved in ARC grants: ARC IH150100028 and ARC DP1094337 Industry partnerships with BHP Billiton and ULVAC Inc. Academic Contributions : Published in IEEE Sensors , APL Materials , and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces Active in microfluidic device design for biomedical and environmental applications Developed evaporation-driven fluid transport systems for portable biosensing platforms
Jennifer P. Mathews is a Professor of Anthropology in the Sociology and Anthropology Department at Trinity University, where she teaches courses in archaeology and biological anthropology. Her academic career is deeply rooted in Maya studies, with particular expertise in ancient and historical Maya archaeology, as well as issues of sustainability and tourism. She has received significant recognition for her teaching excellence, including the prestigious Dr. and Mrs. Z.T. Scott Faculty Fellowship (2019-20), the state-wide Piper Professor award (2020), and the Murchison Term Professorship (2023-2026). Dr. Mathews earned her Ph.D. and M.A. in anthropology, with a specialization in Maya archaeology, from the University of California at Riverside, and her undergraduate degree in anthropology from San Diego State University (1991). Since 1993, she has conducted extensive fieldwork and archival research in Mexico, establishing herself as a leading expert in Maya archaeology. Her research has evolved from focusing on ancient Maya studies—particularly roads, architecture, and site layouts—to examining the post-Colonial period of the Yucatan Peninsula (1850–1950), with particular attention to commodity extraction including sugarcane, chicle (the base for chewing gum), rum production, and avocados. Her scholarly output includes numerous journal articles, book chapters, and several edited books such as Quintana Roo Archaeology , Lifeways in the Northern Maya Lowlands , The Value of Things: Prehistoric to Contemporary Commodities in the Maya Region , and Construction of Maya Space: Causeways, Walls, and Open Areas from Ancient to Modern Times . She has also co-authored significant works like Chicle: The Chewing Gum of the Americas: From the Ancient Maya to William Wrigley and Bittersweet History: Sugarcane, Rum, Labor and Life on the Yucatán Peninsula . Currently, she is working on a book about the deep history of the avocado, tracing its journey from Mesoamerican origins to California in the nineteenth century. Her recent publications reveal a strong focus on historical archaeology of the Yucatan Peninsula, particularly examining how 19th century practices relate to contemporary issues. She explores topics ranging from chicle gum's role in popular culture to the preservation challenges facing archaeological sites amid modern development pressures. Her work consistently bridges ancient and modern contexts, demonstrating how historical practices inform current sustainability challenges. Dr. and Mrs. Z.T. Scott Faculty Fellowship (2019-20) Piper Professor award (2020) - a state-wide teaching award for superior teaching at the college level Murchison Term Professorship (2023-2026) Dr. Mathews actively engages with the community through collaborations with local institutions like the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA), where she teaches docents about ancient Mesoamerican cultures. Her students contribute research papers to museum collections and help develop e-Museum descriptions. She incorporates service learning into her courses, organizing projects that support causes like the San Antonio Food Bank, the San Antonio Zoo's primate conservation efforts, and Maya women artisans in Mesoamerica. Additionally, she has curated two significant exhibits: 'The Modern Maya: The Photographs of Macduff Everton' and 'Crafting Maya Identity.' Her academic affiliations span multiple interdisciplinary programs including Environmental Studies, Global Latinx Studies, Museum Studies, and the MAS: Mexico, the Americas, and Spain program.
Zhiwei Ye is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology & Immunology at the College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina. His research focuses on redox biology, cancer mechanisms, and drug metabolism with a particular emphasis on mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and therapeutic resistance. He holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Science from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Belgium, 2009) and prior degrees from Zhejiang University (China). PhD in Pharmaceutical Science, 2009 – Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium Master in Pharmaceutical Science, 2005 – Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium Master in Medicine, 2003 – Zhejiang University, China B.S. in Pharmacy, 2000 – Zhejiang University, China Dr. Ye’s research explores how redox regulation impacts cancer progression, drug resistance, and metabolic disorders. His work integrates enzymology (e.g., GSTP, PDI), mitochondrial dynamics, and zebrafish models to study mechanisms like S-glutathionylation, VDAC targeting, and drug-transporter interactions. Recent studies highlight novel therapeutic strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma, melanoma, and myeloma through modulation of redox pathways. Publications emphasize translational research bridging basic biology and clinical applications, including drug development (e.g., Telintra) and understanding treatment resistance in malignancies. His work also addresses metabolic disease mechanisms, such as hepatic steatosis and drug-induced renal toxicity. No scientific awards explicitly mentioned in provided texts. Active in grant-funded research areas like cancer biology and redox signaling. Collaborates on projects involving drug-transporter profiling in hepatocytes and cellular stress responses.
Katherine White is a Professor of Marketing and Behavioural Science at the Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia, and holds the Watkinson Professorship in Sustainability. She also serves as Senior Associate Dean for Strategy and Responsible Business. Her research explores how social contexts, identities, and emotions influence ethical, prosocial, and sustainable consumer choices. She holds degrees from Simon Fraser University (BA), University of Waterloo (MA), and UBC (PhD). Her research focuses on sustainability marketing, prosocial consumption, and corporate social responsibility. Notable projects include collaborations with Lululemon, Starbucks, and the SPCA to design behavior change initiatives. She has authored over 60 articles, including 'The Elusive Green Consumer' in Harvard Business Review, and been honored as one of the world's top 5 marketing researchers by the American Marketing Association. Key awards include the Canada Clean 50 Award (2024) for sustainability thought leadership and induction into the Royal Society of Canada's College of Arts and Sciences. She serves as Associate Editor for Journal of Marketing Research and Journal of Consumer Psychology, and contributes to editorial boards for top-tier journals. Her work emphasizes bridging academic research with real-world impact through industry partnerships. Current research trends highlight behavioral nudges for sustainability, identity-based consumption patterns, and the psychological drivers behind charitable giving.
Dr. Sheng-Jian Ji is a Tenured Associate Professor at the School of Life Sciences, Department of Neuroscience at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) in Shenzhen, China. He also serves as the Academic Vice President of Shude Academy and was previously the first Deputy Director of Research and Graduate Affairs in the Department of Biology at SUSTech (2016-2018). As a leading neuroscientist specializing in RNA modification and neural development, Dr. Ji has established an internationally recognized research program. Dr. Ji's educational background includes: 2003-2007: Postdoctoral Fellow, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Neurobiology 1998-2003: PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University School of Life Sciences 1994-1998: Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry, Yantai University Department of Biochemistry Dr. Ji's research primarily focuses on developmental neurobiology, with particular emphasis on post-transcriptional regulation mechanisms including RNA modification and local translation of mRNA in axons. His laboratory is recognized as one of the leading international groups studying how mRNA modification (particularly m6A and m5C) regulates neural development and function. Through innovative approaches combining molecular biology, cell biology, and microfluidic technologies, his team has revealed important insights into axon growth, dendrite maintenance, cortical neurogenesis, and retinal development. His publication record shows a clear trajectory from fundamental mechanisms of RNA modification to applications in understanding neurological disorders and aging. Recent work has expanded into aging-related neural decline, cognitive functions, and potential therapeutic targets for neurological conditions. Dr. Ji has received numerous prestigious awards: 2020, 2016: SUSTech Excellent College Mentor 2020: SUSTech Biology Department Outstanding Service Award 2019: Guangdong Province Talent Youyue Card A 2017: Guangdong Provincial Professor of Neurobiology 2013: Jiangsu Distinguished Professor (Nanjing University) 2011: National Natural Science Award Second Prize (third contributor) As an educator, Dr. Ji teaches undergraduate Neurobiology and graduate Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology courses. He actively mentors students, with recent master's graduates including Yuan Jiaxin and Zhang Pingrui. His laboratory recruits postdoctoral fellows (with salaries of 335,000+ RMB annually), research assistants, and graduate students, providing comprehensive training in molecular techniques, neuronal cell culture, microfluidics, and omics approaches. Dr. Ji leads a vibrant research team that collaborates both within SUSTech and internationally. His work continues to advance understanding of RNA modification in neural development, function, and aging, with recent progress highlighted in June 2025.
Professor Ana Ivanovic is a Personal Chair (equivalent to Full Professor) in the School of Engineering at the University of Aberdeen, specializing in Geotechnical Engineering with a focus on offshore applications. She holds a MEng in Civil Engineering with major in Geotechnics and Foundations from Belgrade and a PhD in Geotechnical Engineering from the University of Aberdeen (2001). She is a Chartered Civil Engineer (CEng) and Member of the Institution of Civil Engineers (MICE) since 2008. MEng Honours degree, 1st class, in Civil Engineering with major in Geotechnics and Foundations, School of Civil Engineering, Belgrade, Yugoslavia (1997) Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Aberdeen (2001) Professor Ivanovic's research spans two major streams: the dynamic behavior of ground anchorage systems and the impact of trawling gears on the seabed ecosystem. Her work combines numerical modeling with physical experimentation to address critical challenges in offshore renewable energy, subsea pipelines, and marine environmental protection. She has developed sophisticated models for rock-steel interfaces, pipeline buckling, and seabed disturbance from fishing activities, with applications in offshore wind, oil and gas, and sustainable fisheries. Her recent publications reveal a strong focus on offshore renewable energy foundations, particularly rock anchor systems for wind turbines, and the environmental impact of marine activities. Her research consistently bridges theoretical geotechnics with practical engineering applications, often incorporating large deformation numerical analysis and physical testing under realistic seabed conditions. NERC Industrial CASE studentship (2016-2018) examining biogeochemical effects of benthic trawling Innovate UK KTP project (2016-2018) developing 'DeepBuoy' pumpable buoyancy technology EU FP7 BENTHIS grant (2012-2016) studying benthic ecosystem fisheries impact Fisheries Innovation Scotland grant (2015) modeling physical impact of demersal fishing gears EPSRC grant (2008-2011) investigating anchorage head design for multi-strand anchorages Professor Ivanovic supervises numerous PhD and MSc students and serves as External Examiner for Strathclyde and Napier Universities. She regularly reviews manuscripts for leading journals including International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, and Ocean Engineering. Her work with the Scottish Universities Geotechnical Network (SUGN) and the Society for Underwater Technology's Offshore Site Investigation and Geotechnics Committee demonstrates her commitment to advancing geotechnical knowledge in marine environments.
Mikael Rinne serves as Associate Professor in Rock Mechanics within the Department of Civil Engineering at Aalto University, Finland. Holding a Doctor of Science in Technology (D.Sc. Tech.), he brings extensive industry experience from Finnish and Swedish consulting firms (1988-2008) where he specialized in rock engineering and project management for tunneling and geological disposal of radioactive waste. His research focuses on rock and fracture mechanics with direct applications to rock engineering, mining, and tunneling. Current investigations center on digital characterization methods including photogrammetry, videogrammetry, and virtual reality systems for both practical engineering solutions and educational advancement. His work addresses critical challenges in fracture hydro-mechanics, rock mass characterization, and sustainable mining practices. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong emphasis on digital transformation in rock mechanics. Key trends include non-contact surveying techniques for rock mass characterization, scale effects in fracture properties, and virtual learning environments for engineering education. His research bridges theoretical modeling with field applications in tunneling, mining, and radioactive waste disposal, demonstrating consistent innovation in measurement technologies and computational methods. No scientific awards were mentioned in the source materials. While specific advising details and grant information were not provided, his leadership of the Mineral-based materials and mechanics research group indicates active supervision of graduate students and management of research projects. His industry background suggests strong connections with tunneling and mining sectors for applied research collaboration. He directs the Mineral-based materials and mechanics research group at Aalto University, which develops advanced methodologies for rock characterization and engineering applications. Current initiatives integrate digital tools like smartphone LiDAR, 360-degree cameras, and virtual reality systems to enhance both field practices and educational outcomes in rock engineering.
Associate Professor Brendan McMorran is a faculty member at The John Curtin School of Medical Research (JCSMR), Australian National University (ANU). He leads the McMorran Group focusing on platelet biology and host responses to malaria. His academic roles include Associate Director, HDR (Higher Degree Research) and Group Leader in the Division of Immunology and Infectious Diseases. Education: BSc (Hons) and PhD from University of Otago (New Zealand), followed by postdoctoral research at University of Queensland and Menzies Research Institute. Previously held positions at Macquarie University before joining ANU in 2014. Research interests center on understanding malaria survival mechanisms, particularly platelet-mediated parasite killing, and developing host-directed therapies. Key projects include genetic causes of renal disease in Indigenous Australians and roles of platelets in regulating red blood cell turnover. Notable contributions include identifying platelets' role in killing malaria parasites, discovering defense peptides from Platelet Factor 4, and investigating host genetics in malaria resistance. Supported by NHMRC and ARC funding.
Dr. Adam Wanekaya serves as a Professor and Department Head in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Missouri State University. His research focuses on the fabrication, modification, characterization, and application of nanoscale materials, with specific applications in chemical sensing, biomedical sensing, and environmental remediation of heavy metals and toxins. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from the State University of New York, Binghamton, and M.S. and B.S. degrees in Chemistry from the University of Nairobi. Educational Background: Ph.D. in Chemistry, State University of New York, Binghamton M.S. in Chemistry, University of Nairobi B.S. in Chemistry, University of Nairobi His research interests emphasize integrating nanoscale materials into functional devices for real-world applications. He leads efforts in advancing sustainable solutions for environmental and biomedical challenges through nanotechnology. Contact: wanekaya@missouristate.edu , Roy Blunt Hall 425.
Dr. Joanne Connell is Associate Professor in Sustainability and Tourism at the University of Exeter Business School, where she serves as Director of Postgraduate Research and Programme Manager for the Master's degree in International Tourism Management. With a career spanning over a decade since joining in 2011, she operates at the intersection of sustainability, inclusivity, and health in tourism contexts. Key roles: Director of Postgraduate Research, Programme Manager for MA International Tourism Management Collaboration networks: Alzheimer’s Society, Historic Royal Palaces, National Trust Research themes: Age-friendly tourism, Cognitive impairment accommodations, Sustainable tourism Major publications: Co-editor of Tourism: A Modern Synthesis (5th ed) and The Routledge Handbook of Events Research Focus Her interdisciplinary research bridges tourism, health, and business engagement. Notable projects include the £1.9m UKRI-funded ENLIVEN project (2022-2024) examining nature-based therapies for elderly with cognitive impairments, and development of dementia-inclusive guides for tourism businesses and heritage sites. She has contributed extensively to understanding: Sustainable tourism frameworks Ageing visitor economy challenges Accessibility in heritage and natural sites Business strategies for older demographics Leisure geography in modern societies Interdisciplinary event studies Publication Legacy As co-editor of the seminal Routledge Handbook of Events (2nd ed, 2024) and author/editor of 10+ books, her work spans: Event studies methodology Tourism-health intersections Leisure sociology Urban event planning Knowledge transfer in tourism Policy development for inclusive tourism
Professor Pauleen Bennett is a leading scholar in Anthrozoology at La Trobe University's Bendigo campus, serving in the Department of Psychology, Counseling and Therapy within the College of Science, Health and Engineering since 2018. Her research program centers on human-companion animal relationships, particularly focusing on the psychological dimensions of human-dog bonds, veterinary wellbeing, and child-pet interactions. Her research interests span Anthrozoology , Human-Animal Relationships , and Companion Animal Psychology , with particular emphasis on dog behavior, veterinary burnout, and the therapeutic applications of human-animal bonds. Bennett leads the Anthrozoology Research Group (www.anthrozoologyresearchgroup.com) and has made significant contributions to understanding how animals impact human mental health across diverse contexts from farms to universities. Analysis of her recent publications reveals three dominant research trajectories: (1) human-animal relationship measurement tools development, (2) veterinary workplace wellbeing challenges, and (3) practical applications of human-animal bonds in agricultural, educational, and healthcare settings. Her work consistently bridges theoretical psychology with practical animal welfare applications. Bennett previously served as Associate Editor for Anthrozoos and on the board of the International Society for Anthrozoology. She co-supervises higher degree students across multiple Australian universities and maintains active community engagement through the Anthrozoology Research Group. Her funded research includes the Wildlife Victoria Inc Mental Health and Wellbeing Review (2021-2024), which developed recommended good practice guidelines for wildlife volunteer support programs. Bennett also serves as a consultant on human-animal interaction projects, translating academic research into practical community applications. Bennett maintains a productive research laboratory focused on human-animal interactions, with current projects examining puppy socialization practices, veterinary technician burnout, and the psychological benefits of animal-assisted interventions in university settings. Her Bendigo-based laboratory operates in close collaboration with Australian farms, veterinary clinics, and community organizations.
Dr. Salih Veziroglu is a post-doctoral researcher and subgroup leader at the Chair for Multicomponent Materials at Kiel University, under Prof. Franz Faupel. His research focuses on functional metal-oxide micro-/nanostructures, including thin films and particles, for applications in energy, self-cleaning surfaces, and sensing technologies. Notably, he has pioneered photocatalytic methods to create conductive metal patterns on titanium dioxide substrates, mimicking axon growth and enabling advanced biomedical and electronic systems. Veziroglu earned his doctoral degree in Materials Science from Kiel University in 2020, supported by Federal State Funding. His work integrates nanomaterial synthesis, surface functionalization, and interdisciplinary applications. Key areas include 3D porous cerium oxide networks for catalysis, superhydrophobic coatings, and biomedical materials like algae-incorporated polylactide acid patches for tissue engineering. His research highlights include strain-invariant all-organic conductors developed with Prof. Adelung's team, and novel methods for gold deposition on titanium dioxide using light-driven processes. These innovations address challenges in energy storage, environmental remediation, and medical device coatings. Veziroglu’s subgroup actively explores gas-phase synthesis techniques, plasma treatments for biofilm decontamination, and material design for high-performance applications. Publications span topics like additive manufacturing of titanium alloys, photocatalytic nanoparticle synthesis, and biomedical coatings. His work emphasizes practical solutions for sustainability and healthcare, driven by advanced material chemistry.
