Gene Tsudik is a Distinguished Professor of Computer Science at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), with a career spanning over two decades. He obtained his Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Southern California (USC) in 1991, focusing on access control in the Internet. His research spans multiple areas including computer and network security, applied cryptography, and digital privacy, with a recent emphasis on database privacy, genomic privacy, and usable security. His notable contributions include the Inter-Domain Policy Routing (IDPR) protocol, KryptoKnight for network security, and Tree-Based Group Key Agreement protocols. He has over 210 publications and 8 patents. From 2002 to 2007, he served as Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies at UCI's School of Information and Computer Sciences and currently directs the UCI Secure Computing and Networking Center (SCONCE). Research Keywords : Cybersecurity, Cryptography, Privacy, Network Security, Digital Signatures, Genomic Data Protection. Scientific Awards : IEEE Fellow (2012), ACM Fellow (2014), AAAS Fellow (2016), Fulbright Senior Scholar (2007), and IFIP Fellow (2020). Professor Tsudik has supervised 18 PhD students and held visiting positions at universities across Europe and Asia. His recent publications focus on secure hardware attestation, biometric authentication, and social media data privacy.
Paolo Gamba is Full Professor in Telecommunications and Remote Sensing at the University of Pavia, Italy, where he previously led the Telecommunications and Remote Sensing Laboratory until 2021. He currently serves as Delegate of the Rector for international relations with USA and the Americas. Gamba is Principal Investigator for projects funded by the Italian Space Agency (ASI), Italian Ministry for External Affairs, and European Space Agency (ESA), and coordinates the School of Science and Technology for the Consortium of Italian Universities for Argentina (CUIA). His research focuses on urban remote sensing , image processing , data fusion , and Earth observation applications for physical exposure and risk management. He has pioneered work in remote sensing data analysis and telecommunications, with particular emphasis on developing methods for urban environment monitoring. Gamba holds significant leadership positions in scientific organizations: Current Editor-in-Chief of IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Magazine Former President of IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Society (2019-2020) Technical Chair for multiple IGARSS conferences Founding organizer of GRSS/ISPRS Joint Workshops on Remote Sensing over Urban Areas Awards & Honors: IEEE Fellow (2013) IAPR Fellow (2020) AAIA Fellow (2022) Outstanding Service Award from IEEE GRSS (2021) Multiple excellence in reviewing awards He maintains active involvement in space mission planning through membership in advisory groups for COSMO/SkyMed Constellation (ASI) and Sentinel-2 Next Generation mission (ESA). Gamba has published extensively with over 150 peer-reviewed journal articles and 300+ conference presentations.
Claudia Plant is a Professor in the Faculty of Computer Science , leading the Research Group Data Mining and Machine Learning . Her research focuses on clustering algorithms, data mining, and machine learning applications in areas like biomedical data, wind energy, and causality inference. She has contributed to projects such as Knowledge-infused Deep Learning for Natural Language Processing (2020–2028) and Hybrid Computational Sciences (2021–2021). Plant has authored over 160 publications, with recent work emphasizing deep learning, anomaly detection, and GPU-optimized algorithms. She actively engages in academic activities, including talks on clustering methods and interdisciplinary projects like Governing Algorithms: The Politics of Data and Decision-Making . Her research interests span clustering algorithms , graph neural networks , causality discovery , and ethical digital transformation . Notable projects include causal analysis of wind farm dynamics and AI-enhanced education tools. Plant’s work bridges computational methods with societal challenges, such as empowering marginalized communities through ethical technology adoption.
Alan Bovik is the Cockrell Family Regents Endowed Chair Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin's Cockrell School of Engineering. He also holds positions at The Institute for Neurosciences and serves as Director of the Laboratory for Image and Video Engineering (LIVE). With a career spanning over three decades at UT Austin, he has progressed from Assistant Professor (1984-1988) to Associate Professor (1988-1994) to his current position as Full Professor (1994-present). Dr. Bovik received his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering in 1984 from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Professor Bovik's research focuses on image and video quality assessment, visual perception, and digital media processing. He is renowned for developing groundbreaking algorithms including the Structural Similarity (SSIM) index, Visual Information Fidelity (VIF), and various blind quality assessment models like BRISQUE and NIQE. His work bridges engineering and neuroscience, creating perception-based models that optimize visual media delivery while reducing bandwidth consumption. These innovations have had profound industry impact, with his algorithms processing a significant proportion of global internet video traffic. His recent publications demonstrate continued leadership in perceptual quality assessment, with increasing focus on AI-generated content, high dynamic range (HDR) video, and novel applications in medical imaging. The research shows a clear trajectory toward more sophisticated, neural network-based quality metrics that better align with human visual perception across diverse content types. Professor Bovik has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his contributions to the field: John Fritz Medal (2024) IEEE Edison Medal (2022) IAMB BaM Award (2022) Elected to the United States National Academy of Engineering (2022) Technology and Engineering Emmy Award (2021) IEEE Fourier Award for Signal Processing (2019) Progress Medal from The Royal Photographic Society (2019) Named Honorary Fellow of The Royal Photographic Society (2019) Primetime Emmy Award (2015) Edwin H. Land Medal from The Optical Society (2017) As Director of the Laboratory for Image and Video Engineering (LIVE), Professor Bovik has secured substantial research funding from organizations including the National Science Foundation and the National Institute for Standards and Technologies. His lab has produced numerous influential datasets including the LIVE Image and Video Quality Databases. He has mentored many successful students who have gone on to make significant contributions in academia and industry, though specific student names are not provided in the source materials. The Laboratory for Image and Video Engineering (LIVE) under Professor Bovik's direction has become a world-renowned center for research in perceptual image and video quality. The lab maintains close collaborations with major technology companies including Netflix, Amazon, and YouTube, ensuring that research has direct practical applications. LIVE has developed numerous influential tools and databases that are widely used in both academic research and industrial applications worldwide.
University of Applied Sciences Wiener NeustadtAustria
Cornelia Schneider is a Professor and Head of the Institute of Computer Science at the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt. She leads research in digital health and care technologies, focusing on applications like Augmented Reality, sensor data analysis, and social robotics for vulnerable populations. Her work emphasizes user-centered design and has been supported by projects funded by FFG and the Active Assisted Living Programme. Her research spans telemedicine infrastructure, elderly care robotics, and health monitoring systems. Notable projects include 24/7-Digital (2023-2026), Care about Care (2021-2023), and AgeWell (2019-2022). She has pioneered solutions like CARU cares and DigiCare training programs. Dr. Schneider has been recognized with the AAL Award (2014) and the tecnet | accent Innovation Award (2021). She coordinates interdisciplinary teams and actively participates in conferences like Health Informatics Meets Digital Health. Her lab collaborations include FOTEC and Salzburg Research, where she previously led the e-Health Competence Center until 2019.
Hubert Zangl is a Professor at the University of Klagenfurt and Head of the Institute for Intelligent System Technologies . He serves as Chairman of the Information Technology Curricular Commission and participates in the Faculty Conference of the Faculty of Technical Sciences. Key research areas include: Sensor technology Electrical measurement technology Robotics Signal processing Electronics Recent research trends focus on: High-fidelity FMCW radar simulation frameworks Energy-efficient sensor systems Printed electronics for structural health monitoring Uncertainty propagation in measurement science Modular robotics with secure transducer identification Capacitive tactile sensing for robotic grasping Contact: Hubert.Zangl@aau.at
Georges Gielen is Full Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) at KU Leuven, Belgium, and part-time Research Director at imec. He has held multiple leadership roles including Chair of ESAT Department (2012-2013, 2020-2024) and Vice-Rector for Science, Engineering & Technology (2013-2017). His academic career spans over 30 years at KU Leuven, progressing from Assistant to Full Professor. His research focuses on analog and mixed-signal integrated circuit design automation , with expertise in CAD tools, design optimization, sensor interfaces, and neuromorphic systems. His work bridges hardware design with machine learning, particularly in hardware-efficient AI implementations and biomedical applications. He has pioneered techniques for automated analog circuit sizing, topology synthesis, and reliability-aware design in nanometer CMOS. Gielen has received numerous accolades including the IEEE CAS Mac Van Valkenburg Award (2015), IEEE CAS Charles Desoer Award (2020), and EDAA Achievement Award (2021). He holds an ERC Advanced Grant AnalogCreate and is an IEEE Fellow since 2002. As a prolific scholar, he has chaired major conferences including DATE (2006), ICCAD (2007), and ESSCIRC (2017). He has graduated over 55 PhD students through the MICAS research group at KU Leuven, currently supervising 13 doctoral candidates. His research team collaborates extensively with imec and industry partners on cutting-edge projects in carbon-aware AI accelerators, uncertainty-aware design, and neuromorphic sensor interfaces.
Peter Homolka is an Associate Professor at the Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna. His work focuses on medical imaging optimization, radiation dosimetry, and the application of additive manufacturing in developing advanced phantoms for radiology and ultrasound. He has contributed extensively to CT imaging, mammography, and pediatric radiology. University: Medical University of Vienna Department: Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering Homolka's research spans X-ray attenuation analysis, image quality assessment, and the development of tissue-mimicking materials for phantoms. He has explored dual-energy mammography, ultra-low-dose CT applications, and techniques for enhancing diagnostic accuracy while minimizing radiation exposure. His recent publications highlight trends in 3D printing for anthropomorphic phantoms, dose optimization in CT and mammography, and comparative studies in emergency radiology. These works emphasize radiation safety, material science, and clinical imaging protocols. Homolka's projects include collaborations with international bodies like the IAEA, focusing on pediatric imaging standards and multi-center studies. His contributions to phantom design and dosimetry metrics have advanced quality assurance in radiology.
Albert Treytl is a Senior Researcher at the Danube University Krems , serving as Head of the Center for Distributed Systems and Sensor Networks and Deputy Head of the Department for Integrated Sensor Systems. He holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the Vienna University of Technology (2001) and has over two decades of experience in communication technologies and security. Current roles: Head of Center, Deputy Head of Department Research focus: Security for embedded systems, IoT, digital twins, AI in energy optimization Involvement: IEEE, CEN TC 247 WG4, IEEE1588 standardization His work addresses distributed data management, smart grid security, and model predictive control strategies for energy efficiency in buildings and traffic systems. He leads multiple national and international projects funded by FFG and EU programs. Recent research projects include KI4HVACS (AI-driven HVAC optimization), Factories4Renewables (industrial renewable energy integration), and Dataskop (sensor-based data economy). He has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and serves as co-lecturer at the Vienna University of Technology.
Mohamed-Slim Alouini is a Professor of Electrical Engineering and Associate Dean of the Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering (CEMSE) Division at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia. He also serves as the Associate Vice President for Research and holds the UNESCO Chair in Education to Connect the Unconnected. With over 500 journal publications and more than 46,000 citations, he is a world-renowned expert in wireless communications who was elected IEEE Fellow in 2009 at the age of 39. Education: PhD in Electrical Engineering, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), 1998 MS in Electrical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), 1995 Diplôme d'Etudes Approfondies (DEA) in Electronics, Université Pierre & Marie Curie (Sorbonne University), 1993 Diplôme d'Ingénieur, École Nationale Supérieure des Télécommunications (Télécom Paris Tech), 1993 Habilitation, Université Pierre & Marie Curie (Sorbonne University), 2003 Dr. Alouini is a world-renowned expert in wireless communication and networking with research interests spanning diversity combining techniques, MIMO systems, multi-hop/cooperative communications, optical wireless systems, cognitive radio, UAV communications, and advanced modulation schemes. His current focus addresses the technical challenges of uneven information and communication technology distribution, particularly targeting rural, low-income, disaster-prone, and hard-to-reach areas through integrated ground-airborne-space networks. His work bridges theoretical foundations with practical implementations to solve real-world connectivity problems. His recent publications (2020-2024) demonstrate a clear research trajectory toward integrated communication networks combining terrestrial, aerial, and space components. There's growing emphasis on UAV communications, satellite systems, optical wireless technologies, and rural connectivity solutions, with increasing integration of machine learning techniques for network optimization. His work shows consistent focus on addressing the digital divide, with several publications specifically targeting 6G challenges for connecting underserved populations and recycling existing infrastructure for enhanced rural connectivity. Scientific Awards: Member of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts (2019) Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences (2018) IEEE Fellow (2009) Abdul Hameed Shoman Award for Arab Researchers (2016) OIC Science & Technology Achievement Award (2017) Multiple recognitions as Highly Cited Researcher NSF CAREER Award (1999) Dr. Alouini has mentored numerous successful students and post-doctoral fellows who have secured positions at top institutions worldwide including Harvard, Caltech, Imperial College, and faculty positions at Korea University, Hanyang University, and universities across the Middle East. His December 2018 PhD graduate Qurrat-Ul-Ain Nadeem received the prestigious Marconi Society Paul Baran Young Scholars award, while post-doctoral fellows have won IEEE ComSoc Young Professionals Best Innovation Award and attended the Lindau Nobel Meeting. His Communication Theory Lab at KAUST drives significant research in wireless communications with funding supporting extensive publication output and innovative projects. Dr. Alouini leads the Communication Theory Lab at KAUST and holds the UNESCO Chair in Education to Connect the Unconnected, focusing specifically on technical solutions for connecting underserved communities. His lab works on integrated ground-airborne-space networks to bridge the digital divide, with particular emphasis on rural, low-income, and hard-to-reach areas. The team develops practical solutions using UAVs, satellite communications, and recycled infrastructure to provide cost-effective connectivity where traditional approaches fail.
Georgios B. Giannakis is a Full Professor, Endowed Chair, and Presidential Chair in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Minnesota since 1999. He directs the Digital Technology Center and has held academic roles at the University of Virginia (1987-1999) and USC (1982-1986). His research spans Data Science, Wireless Communications, Network Science, and Statistical Signal Processing , with applications to IoT and power systems. Diploma in Electrical Engineering, NTUA (1981) MSc in Electrical Engineering, USC (1983) MSc in Mathematics, USC (1986) PhD in Electrical Engineering, USC (1986) His publications (470+ journals, 770+ conferences, 34 patents) focus on fading channel modeling, UWB localization, blind signal estimation, and cross-layer wireless design . Articles emphasize multicarrier systems, time-varying channels, and ultra-wideband communication , with citations exceeding 76,000 (H-index 145). Scientific Awards : EURASIP 'Athanasios Papoulis' Society Award (2020) IEEE Fourier Technical Field Award (2015) Gugliermo Marconi Prize Paper Award (2003) 9 Best Journal Paper Awards (IEEE/SPS & ComSoc) IEEE SPS Technical Achievement Award (2001) He has mentored over 50 PhD students and 25 postdocs, served IEEE as Distinguished Lecturer, and contributed to Greek university accreditation panels. His work bridges theoretical signal processing and practical communication systems .
Prof. Dr. Gernot R. Müller-Putz is Head of the Institute of Neural Engineering and the Graz Brain-Computer Interface Lab at Graz University of Technology. He serves as Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science & Biomedical Engineering and holds editorial roles at Frontiers in Human Neuroscience IEEE Transactions in Biomedical Engineering Brain-Computer Interface Journal . With over 212 peer-reviewed publications and an h-index of 80, his research focuses on Brain-Computer Interfaces , Neuroprosthetics , and EEG-based Motor Control . His work investigates: Neural signal decoding for spinal cord injury rehabilitation Hybrid BCI systems with error processing Artificial sensory feedback mechanisms Machine learning applications in neural engineering VR-based neurofeedback environments Non-invasive multimodal biosignal recording Research trends show strong emphasis on EEG signal processing , BCI clinical applications , and neurotechnology integration . Scientific Awards : ERC Consolidator Grant (2015) Ludwig-Guttman Award (2017) CYBATHLON Best Paper (2019) State of Styria Research Award (2019) Förderstipendium (2013-2014) He advises 21 PhD students and has managed major projects like MoreGrasp (EU Horizon 2020) , Feel Your Reach (ERC) , and INTRECOM (EU EIC Pathfinder) . The Institute hosts the BCI Racing Team Mirage91 and offers international thesis opportunities.
Alex X. Liu is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science & Engineering at Michigan State University (2016-2022), currently serving as Chief Information Security Officer and President of Midea Software Engineering Institute. His academic career includes roles as Associate Professor (2012-2016) and Assistant Professor (2006-2012) at the same institution. He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Computer Science from The University of Texas at Austin, and a B.S. in Computer Science from Jilin University, China. Education Ph.D. in Computer Science (UT Austin, 2006) M.S. in Computer Science (UT Austin, 2002) B.S. in Computer Science (Jilin University, 1996) Liu's research focuses on Dependable computing , Networking algorithms , Cloud computing , Mobile computing , Privacy computing , and Computer/network security . His work spans secure systems, network protocols, and resource optimization in distributed environments. Recent publications address quantum neural networks , microservices autoscaling , RFID tag recognition , network traffic classification , and hybrid physical-layer authentication , demonstrating expertise at the intersection of AI and network security. Key trends include deep learning applications for cloud systems and robust security protocols. Scientific Awards IET Fellow (2021) IEEE Fellow (2019) ACM Distinguished Scientist (2019) Withrow Distinguished Scholar Awards (Senior 2019, Junior 2011) NSF CAREER Award (2009) IEEE & IFIP William C. Carter Award (2004)
Ahmet Tekalp is a Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Koc University's College of Engineering since 2001. He holds dual citizenship in Turkey and the USA, with prior academic roles at the University of Rochester (1986-2005) and research positions at Eastman Kodak (1984-1987) and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (1981-1984). He chairs the Electronics and Informatics Group at TUBITAK since 2004 as a part-time position. B.S. (1980) in Electrical Engineering & Mathematics, Bogaziçi University M.S. (1982) and Ph.D. (1984) in Electrical, Computer, and Systems Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute His research focuses on digital image and video processing, including video compression, motion-compensated filtering for high-resolution applications, video segmentation, object tracking, content-based video analysis, multi-camera surveillance processing, and digital content protection. He has led numerous European and U.S. grants, including FP7 STREP projects and NSF awards, emphasizing applications in sensor networks, visual databases, and medical imaging. His scholarly work spans diverse areas such as superresolution reconstruction, head gesture animation, 3DTV streaming, and reversible data hiding. He has played pivotal roles in editorial boards, including serving as Editor-in-Chief of Signal Processing: Image Communication, and has contributed to major standards bodies like ISO MPEG and ANSI NCITS. Member, Turkish Academy of Sciences (TUBA) Fellow, IEEE Fulbright Senior Scholarship (1999) TUBITAK Science Award (2004) IEEE Signal Processing Society Distinguished Lecturer (1998) He has led multiple international research collaborations and projects, including European FP6/FP7 networks and NATO programs, with substantial grant funding from NSF, NYSTAR, and industry partners like Eastman Kodak, Xerox, and Siemens.
Ahmet M. Tekalp is a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Koc University , Istanbul, Turkey, since 2001. Previously, he held a full-time professorship at the University of Rochester (1986-2005) and part-time roles such as Chair of the Electronics and Informatics Group at TUBITAK, Turkey. His work bridges academic and industrial research, with affiliations to institutions like Eastman Kodak Company and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Education: BS (1980), Electrical Engineering & Mathematics (High Honors), Bogaziçi University MS (1982) & PhD (1984), Electrical, Computer, and Systems Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) Research Interests: Digital image and video processing Video compression and streaming Motion-compensated video filtering for high-resolution Video segmentation and object tracking Content-based video analysis and summarization Multi-camera surveillance video processing Digital content protection Scientific Awards: Member, Turkish Academy of Sciences (TUBA) Fellow, IEEE Fulbright Senior Scholarship (1999) TUBITAK Science Award (2004), Turkey's highest science award Grants and Contracts: FP6 Network of Excellence, SIMILAR (2003-2007), Euro 6 Million FP6 Network of Excellence, 3DTV (2004-2008), Euro 6 Million FP7 STREP projects (DIOMEDES, SARACEN) with Euro 3 Million budgets NSF grants spanning wireless sensor networks, visual databases, and MRI motion artifact suppression Industry partnerships with Eastman Kodak, Xerox, Siemens Corporate Research Professional Activities: Editor-in-Chief, Signal Processing: Image Communication (Elsevier) Member, ERC-Advanced Panel on Informatics Editorial roles in IEEE journals and other publications Active in ISO/IEC and ANSI standards committees
