Christos Liaskos is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Ioannina (UoI), Greece. He is also a researcher at the Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH). His expertise spans computer networks, wireless communication systems, and nanotechnology, with a focus on reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), metasurfaces, and their applications in 6G, IoT, and autonomous systems. He holds a PhD in Computer Networking from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) and has published extensively in IEEE venues. Education: Diploma in Electrical and Computer Engineering (AUTH, 2004) MSc in Medical Informatics (AUTH Medical School, 2008) PhD in Computer Networking (AUTH Informatics Department, 2014) Research Interests: Programmable wireless environments using software-defined metasurfaces RIS-assisted architectures for 5G/6G networks IoT and UAV communication systems Energy-efficient trajectory design for drones Beam steering and wavefront control in mmWave systems His recent work explores applications like RIS-based autonomous driving, optical wireless positioning, and fault-tolerant routing in metasurface networks. He contributes to open-source simulation frameworks (e.g., Cooperis) and collaborates on EU projects like VISORSURF, advancing the Internet-of-Materials concept.
Chris Barker is a Senior Lecturer at RMIT University's School of Design, specializing in animation, computer graphics, and interactive media. As part of the Centre for Animation and Interactive Media (AIM), he focuses on augmented architecture, virtual heritage, and creative entrepreneurship. His work bridges art, technology, and industry, with notable roles as Creative Director and Production Designer for urbanskinning, creating immersive environments for stage and events. Industry Experience: Member of Melbourne ACM SIGGRAPH Professional Chapter Member of CG Society Research Interests: Barker explores animation studies, human-computer interaction, heritage preservation, and new media art. His projects include installations like Urban Skinning (2007) and collaborations with institutions like ACMI and QUT. Exhibitions & Awards: Final Notice (1999): Winner of the Planet X Award for Best Use of Digital Media Featured in international exhibitions, including ACMI’s Eyes, Lies and Illusions (2006–2007) Teaching & Projects: Barker supervises projects like New Tricks: Illusionary Experiences with 3D Animation (2025) and Crafting Vietnamese Digital Heritage (2024). His work emphasizes interdisciplinary innovation and community engagement through digital media.
Marcus Specht is a Professor affiliated with Delft University of Technology and Leiden University, Netherlands. His research focuses on Educational Technology, Learning Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence in Education. He has contributed to projects involving agent-based social skills training, hybrid intelligence for cognitive process analysis, and computational thinking assessment in higher education. His work spans mobile learning, collaborative learning analytics, and gamification in MOOCs. He collaborates extensively with researchers like Marco Kalz, Roland Klemke, and Hendrik Drachsler. Notable contributions include the Presentation Trainer for public speaking feedback and the DojoIBL platform for inquiry-based learning. His research emphasizes multimodal learning systems, including AR/VR applications and sensor-based training tools. He explores the integration of AI into educational platforms, as seen in projects like JELAI and the ARTES architecture for social skills training.
Anthony Wiskich is a Visiting Professor at the Australian National University's (ANU) Centre for Applied Macroeconomic Analysis, part of the Crawford School of Public Policy. He holds a PhD from ANU (2021) and has professional experience as a postdoctoral fellow at CSIRO, economist at the IMF, and IT consultant. His research focuses on climate policy design, decarbonisation pathways for synthetic biology and deep-sea shipping, optimal carbon pricing under climate tipping risks, and electricity market transitions. He also examines financing constraints for clean technologies and policy effectiveness evaluation. Research interests include: Decarbonisation opportunities in synthetic biology and shipping sectors Optimal carbon pricing mechanisms under climate uncertainty Clean-energy policy mix optimization Substitutability analysis between renewable and fossil fuel energy sources Financing barriers for green innovation Comparative effectiveness of climate policy instruments His recent work emphasizes: Quantifying methane vs. carbon dioxide climate impacts Evaluating ammonia fertilizer production innovations Analyzing wind/solar substitution dynamics Comparing carbon taxes vs. subsidy approaches Game-theoretic climate policy coordination Labs/Teams: Active contributor to ANU's Centre for Applied Macroeconomic Analysis research programs. Previously affiliated with CSIRO's postdoctoral program and IMF policy teams.
Prof. Dr. Ingmar Ickerott is a faculty member at Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences, affiliated with the School of Management, Kultur und Technik (MKT, Campus Lingen) under the University management department. His academic career spans over two decades, focusing on logistics management, digitalization in supply chains, and smart technology applications like Smart Glasses and Augmented Reality . Academic Background : Diplom-Kaufmann in Business Administration (2001), Ph.D. in Economics (2006). Professional Roles : Senior Project Manager at arvato (2008–2010), Professor since 2010, Dean of MKT since 2019, Vice President for Digitalization since 2019. His research emphasizes logistics innovation , Lean Management , and digital solutions in rural healthcare . Key projects include Land.Digital (2019–2022) and LEAN 4.0 (Erasmus+, 2019–2021). Publications since 2004 cover agent-based simulation , Smart Device economics , and AR in logistics . He actively lectures on topics like Logistics 4.0 and Digital Onboarding . Projects & Grants : Land.Digital : €165,000+ (Erasmus+), 2019–2021. Dorfgemeinschaft 2.0 : €1.46M (BMBF), 2015–2021. Glasshouse : €208,557 (BMBF), 2015–2019.
Professor HADJINICOLAS GEORGE holds a faculty position at the University of Cyprus, Department of Business Administration and Public Administration under the School of Economics and Management. His research focuses on production-marketing interface, international manufacturing systems, and product positioning methods. He earned a Ph.D. in Business Administration (Operations Management) from the University of Southern California in 1993, preceded by MS degrees in Statistics (1990) and Computer Engineering (1989), and a BS in Electrical Engineering (Cum Laude, 1988). His research interests emphasize optimizing production systems through interdisciplinary approaches, integrating marketing and operational decisions. Key themes include cost reduction in serial production systems, resource allocation for service quality, and strategic product positioning using advanced analytics like self-organizing maps. His publication trends reflect sustained contributions to operations management and decision sciences, with notable work on journal evaluation metrics and production-marketing interface challenges. Over two decades, his research has addressed both theoretical frameworks (e.g., asymptotic distribution analysis) and practical applications (e.g., hotel service optimization). He has advised numerous studies on manufacturing systems and marketing strategies, though specific student names are not listed here. His work bridges engineering and business disciplines, addressing global operational challenges through quantitative methodologies.
Mr. Yi Wang is a researcher at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, specializing in Multi-scale Modeling of Powder Forging and related fields. His work bridges mechanical engineering, energy systems, and artificial intelligence. University: Imperial College London Department: Department of Mechanical Engineering Research Interests include electric vehicle-grid integration, microgrid resilience, reinforcement learning applications in energy systems, and multi-energy network optimization. His publications emphasize AI-driven strategies for low-carbon transitions and grid stability. Email: yi.wang12@imperial.ac.uk
René Röpke is an Assistant Professor at TU Wien since August 2024. Previously, he conducted his PhD and postdoctoral research within the Learning Technologies Research Group at RWTH Aachen University, focusing on personalized game-based learning for cybersecurity education. His academic journey includes a Bachelor's and Master's from Technical University of Darmstadt and a study semester at Simon Fraser University in Canada. His research interests span Learning Technologies, AI-driven Education, Game-based Learning, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Notable projects include the AIStudyBuddy initiative for AI-powered study planning and the development of serious games for phishing education. He has contributed to tools like WebWriter for interactive content creation and BuddyAnalytics for educational data visualization. Röpke’s recent publications emphasize leveraging AI and process mining for personalized learning solutions, study path optimization, and collaborative learning analytics. His work bridges theoretical educational frameworks with practical digital tool development, aiming to enhance individualized and equitable access to education. He has actively participated in conferences like LAK (Learning Analytics & Knowledge) and DELFI, advocating for open science practices and transparency in educational technology. His contributions highlight a strong focus on human-centered design principles in educational technologies.
John R. Hott is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Virginia. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia (2018) and degrees from the College of William and Mary (B.S. 2005, M.S. 2007). His research focuses on improving CS education through AI integration, analyzing student collaboration dynamics, and social network evolution. He also explores data visualization and interdisciplinary applications in the humanities and education. Education: Ph.D. Computer Science, University of Virginia, 2018 M.S. Computer Science, College of William and Mary, 2007 B.S. Computer Science and Mathematics, College of William and Mary, 2005 Research Interests: CS Education innovations Collaboration policies and academic integrity Social network analysis in evolving systems AI-driven classroom tools Data visualization techniques CS integration in humanities His recent work emphasizes equitable course design, leveraging community software, and pandemic-era educational adaptations. Notable contributions include the ASCI initiative and analysis of Piazza engagement patterns. Awards: ACM@UVA Teacher of the Year (2024) ACM@UVA Rising Star Faculty (2023) Raven Fellowship (2015) John teaches courses like CS4730 (Game Design), CS4640 (Web Programming), and foundational algorithms and data structures. His work bridges pedagogical theory with practical classroom implementation, emphasizing scalable solutions for large enrollments.
Brett Stevens is a Principal Lecturer and Research and Innovation Lead at the School of Film, Media and Creative Technologies, Faculty of Creative & Cultural Industries, University of Portsmouth. He also serves as Director of Postgraduate Taught Programmes and coordinates postgraduate research (PhD/MPhil) in Digital and Creative Technologies. He is actively involved in research, innovation, and leadership in XR and digital heritage. Research Interests: His work centers on Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Computer Games, User Interface and Experience Design, and immersive technologies for heritage institutions. He explores how physical and digital interactions enhance engagement in museums and libraries. Recent Research Trends: His latest publications focus on locomotion classification in VR, saliency detection using GANs, digital preservation of archaeological data, and the role of avatar fidelity in human-computer interaction. These reflect a strong interdisciplinary approach combining computer science, design, and cultural applications. Scientific Awards: IEEE Outstanding Leadership Award (2023) Advising and Grants: He has successfully supervised 20 PhD students in areas including VR, AR, Game Design, and Computer Vision. He leads multiple research projects such as Supporting Elephant and Rhino Conservation and Ecology , CT Research Sprint Projects , and Photorealistic Asset Creation , often in collaboration with institutions like the University of Nottingham and University of York. He is actively involved in funding-driven innovation in XR and heritage. Labs and Teams: He is affiliated with the Centre of Excellence for Heritage Innovation and the Centre for Creative and Immersive XR at the University of Portsmouth, contributing to strategic innovation in immersive content creation and digital preservation.
Steve Szigeti is an Associate Professor in the Teaching Stream and Program Director for Communication, Culture, Information & Technology (CCT) at the Institute for Communication, Culture, Information & Technology (ICCIT), University of Toronto Mississauga. He holds a Ph.D. and Master of Information from the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Information, an MA in English from Concordia University, and a BA in English Literature and History from the University of Toronto. His research focuses on game design, design thinking, pedagogy, human-computer interaction, data visualization, and academic integrity . He integrates innovative teaching practices with digital design, particularly through educational games and inclusive pedagogical frameworks. The recent publications reflect a strong interdisciplinary trend combining education, ethics, and technology . His work explores academic integrity through student attitudes, develops inclusive design pedagogy, and applies HCI principles to media analytics and labor education via gamification. Scientific Awards: UTM Teaching Excellence Award for Junior Faculty 2021-22 As a teaching-stream professor and program director, Steve Szigeti is deeply involved in curriculum development and instructional innovation. He teaches courses such as Business Research Methods, Principles in Game Design, Project Management, and UX and Board Game Design. While no formal students are listed, his mentoring role is evident through capstone projects and internship supervision. He leads initiatives in digital pedagogy and academic integrity, contributing to educational reform and inclusive design practices. He is associated with the Open Design Collaboratory and contributes to research on digital equity and ethical technology use in education.
Michael Neff is a Professor at the University of California, Davis, affiliated with the Department of Computer Science and Department of Cinema and Digital Media. He directs the Motion Lab, an interdisciplinary research group exploring the intersection of computation and human movement. Education: PhD in Computer Science from the University of Toronto (2005), Certified Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst (CLMA, 2009) Research Interests: Focus on character animation tools, gesture and nonverbal communication modeling, physics-based animation, and applying performing arts concepts to virtual character movement. His work bridges art and science through collaborations with robotics, psychology, and dance departments. Recent Research Trends: Over the past five years, his publications demonstrate a focus on speech-driven gesture synthesis, physics-based character control in VR environments, and multimodal analysis of movement perception. Key themes include tension modeling, motion style transfer, and avatar trust dynamics. Awards & Recognition: NSF CAREER Award (2009-14) Isadora Duncan Award for Visual Design (2009) Best Paper Awards at Intelligent Virtual Agents (2007), Motion in Games (2015, 2016) Alain Fournier Memorial Award (2005) IBM PhD Fellowship for advisee Simbarashe Nyatsanga Advising & Collaborations: Has mentored 18 graduate students (PhD/Masters) and numerous undergraduates. Collaborates across disciplines with computer scientists, dancers, and psychologists. Currently chairs the Department of Cinema and Digital Media. Laboratory Facilities: Established a motion capture lab in 2007 featuring a 12-camera optical system in a 750 sq ft studio, supporting interdisciplinary research in movement analysis.
Christine Rizkallah is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Computing and Information Systems at the University of Melbourne, Australia. She joined the university in December 2021 after serving as a Lecturer at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) from April 2018 to December 2021. Her research focuses on interactive theorem proving, formal verification, programming languages, and systems, with an emphasis on building practical tools for high-assurance software development. She leads a research group working on the Cogent and Dargent languages, aiming to reduce the burden of formal verification in systems programming. Education: PhD in Computer Science, Universität des Saarlandes and Max-Planck-Institut für Informatik, Germany (2015), thesis: Verification of Program Computations , supervised by Prof. Dr. Kurt Mehlhorn. MSc in Computer Science, Universität des Saarlandes, Germany (2009), thesis: Proof Representations for Higher Order Logic , supervised by Prof. Dr. Gert Smolka and Dr. Chad E. Brown. BSc in Computer Science, German University in Cairo, Egypt (2007), thesis: X2-Planner: A Hierarchical Task Network Planner for Real Time Gaming Applications , supervised by Prof. Dr. Slim Abdennadher and Dr. Thorsten Maier. Her research interests lie at the intersection of programming languages and formal methods. She develops domain-specific languages with strong type systems and verified compilers to enable trustworthy software systems. Her work spans algorithms, logic, security, and social choice theory, reflecting a strong interdisciplinary approach. She has published extensively in top venues such as POPL, ICFP, ASPLOS, JAR, and PACMPL, with a focus on certifying compilation, refinement verification, and mechanized reasoning. Her recent publications reveal a consistent focus on formal verification of systems software, particularly through the Cogent language and its ecosystem. Key themes include verified data layout refinement (Dargent), property-based testing, termination analysis, cost modeling, and integration with foreign functions. Her work combines theoretical rigor with practical implementation, often involving mechanized proofs in Isabelle/HOL and Coq. Scientific Awards and Recognition: Distinguished Artefact Award at SLE'22 (awarded to Zilin Chen for work under her supervision). First Prize, SPLASH'22 Student Research Competition (undergraduate), won by Raphael Douglas Giles. Second Prize, ACM-wide Student Research Competition (undergraduate, 2023), won by Raphael Douglas Giles. She has supervised numerous PhD, Masters, and Honours students, many of whom have continued in academia or industry research roles. She has received research funding through institutional support and collaborative grants, though specific grants are not detailed in the provided text. She is actively involved in the programming languages community, serving on program committees for POPL, ICFP, CPP, PLDI, and others, and holding leadership roles such as Program Chair for FUNARCH'25 and Diversity and Inclusion Co-Chair for PLDI'25. She teaches core courses including Declarative Programming and Models of Computation at the University of Melbourne. She leads a vibrant research team and collaborates widely across institutions including UNSW, University of Pennsylvania, and international partners. Her lab focuses on building verified systems using functional programming and formal methods, with strong ties to the DeepSpec project and the Isabelle/HOL community.
Angela D. R. Smith is an Assistant Professor at The University of Texas at Austin, specializing in human-computer interaction (HCI), computer supported cooperative work, and information sciences. Her research focuses on designing equitable sociotechnical interventions for homeless young adults in shelter networks, employing community-based participatory research and participatory design methods. She draws on critical race theory, intersectionality, and asset-based approaches to address systemic inequities in technology. Before her academic role, Angela worked as an IT Consultant, Cybersecurity Analyst, and UX Researcher at Airbnb and startups. Her interdisciplinary background bridges technical expertise with social justice advocacy. She holds a Ph.D. in Technology & Social Behavior from Northwestern University. Her work emphasizes ethical AI frameworks, culturally informed design, and social justice in computing education. Key themes include algorithmic equity, marginalized community engagement, and reimagining technology’s role in fostering social change.
Mahsa Ghasemi is an Assistant Professor at the Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University, located in West Lafayette. She holds a B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from Sharif University of Technology (2014), an M.S.E. in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin (2017), and a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin (2021). Her research focuses on task-oriented knowledge acquisition, online learning and control, human-robot interaction, trustworthy AI, and socially beneficial autonomy. She is affiliated with the Materials and Electrical Engineering Building at Purdue. Education: B.Sc., Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology (2014) M.S.E., Mechanical Engineering, UT Austin (2017) Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering, UT Austin (2021) Her research interests span interdisciplinary areas including reinforcement learning, causal inference, control systems, and human-autonomy collaboration. Recent work emphasizes resilient cyber-physical systems, privacy-preserving multi-agent learning, and causal discovery in decision-making frameworks. Her articles address challenges in sensor selection, no-regret learning in bandits, and formal methods for autonomous systems. Publications highlight contributions to submodular optimization in hypothesis testing, robust sensor scheduling in intrusion detection, and adaptive experimental design for causal discovery. Her work bridges theoretical foundations with practical applications in robotics, cybersecurity, and AI ethics. No scientific awards or grants are explicitly listed in the provided data. She advises no listed students but collaborates on projects involving diverse planning and decision-making in constrained environments.
