David A. Foster is a Professor in the Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Florida, affiliated with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research integrates thermochronology, structural geology, and petrology to investigate tectonic and magmatic processes, with a recent focus on enhanced weathering of basaltic rocks for carbon sequestration. He leads the Thermochronology Lab, providing analytical services for mineral separation, Ar/Ar dating, and thermal modeling. Research interests span: Tectonics & Geodynamics : Orogenic collapse, terrane accretion, and supercontinent cycles. Thermochronology : Application of temperature-sensitive isotopic systems to crustal evolution. Surface Processes : Links between tectonic uplift, erosion, and carbon capture via rock weathering. His publications emphasize regional tectonics (e.g., Andes, Appalachians, Cordillera), utilizing geochronology, isotope geochemistry, and structural analysis. Recent work explores collisional orogens, basin provenance, and magmatic arcs, with recurring themes of extensional collapse and paleogeographic reconstructions. Educational contributions include co-authoring the comprehensive textbook Geology of National Parks , now in its 8th edition, which synthesizes geological features of U.S. national parks in the context of plate tectonics and landscape formation.
Robert M. Weikle, II is a Professor in the Charles L. Brown Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Virginia, with a courtesy appointment in the Department of Physics. He earned his B.S. from Rice University (1986), M.S. (1987), and Ph.D. (1992) in Electrical Engineering from Caltech, followed by postdoctoral work at Chalmers University of Technology (1992). His research focuses on millimeter-wave and terahertz electronics , applied electromagnetics, integrated antennas, low-noise sensors, and heterogeneous integration of compound semiconductors. His work bridges electronics and photonics for spectrum access, with applications in astronomy, spectroscopy, and metrology. He has published extensively on micromachined silicon substrates, superconducting materials, and emerging technologies. Scientific Awards: IEEE Microwave Prize (1993) David A. Harrison III Award (1999) University of Virginia All-University Outstanding Teaching Award (2000) Edlich-Henderson Innovator of the Year (2016) Fulbright Scholar (2001) As Chief Technology Officer and co-founder of Dominion Microprobes, Inc., he commercializes micromachined wafer probes for high-frequency metrology. His lab, located in E220 Thornton Hall and the Jesse W. Beams Physics Building, has produced 15+ recent publications on submillimeter-wave devices, THz probes, and calibration techniques.
Martin Saunders is an Associate Professor and leader of the Physical Science Electron Microscopy Platform at the University of Western Australia's Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation & Analysis (CMCA). He holds leadership roles in national microscopy consortia, including Microscopy Australia and the National Imaging Facility. His academic career spans over 20 years, with roles as Deputy Director and Acting Director of CMCA, and President of the Australian Microscopy and Microanalysis Society (AMMS). Saunders earned a PhD in Physics from the University of Bath (UK) and postdoctoral experience at institutions including the University of Bristol and the US Naval Postgraduate School. His research focuses on advanced electron microscopy techniques, including TEM, STEM, EELS, and tomography, applied across physical, biological, and geo sciences. Education: PhD in Physics (University of Bath, 1994), BSc in Applied Physics (University of Bath, 1990). Research interests include structural and chemical analysis of nanomaterials, biominerals, and geological samples. He collaborates globally, contributing to high-impact journals like Nature and Advanced Materials . Saunders has secured over $25M in grants from ARC, NHMRC, and NCRIS, funding cutting-edge microscopy infrastructure. Awards: Inaugural AMMS Fellow (2025), Life Membership (AMMS), Fellow of the UK Institute of Physics (2012). Teaching: Coordinates materials characterization courses for biomedical engineering and nanotechnology programs. Provides training in electron microscopy for researchers and postgraduates. Labs/Infrastructure: Manages state-of-the-art facilities including FEI Titan G2 80-200 TEM/STEM and DualBeam FIB-SEM systems at CMCA.
Alan Rooney is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences at Yale University, affiliated with the Yale School of Arts and Sciences. He leads the Rooney Geochronology and Geochemistry Group, which is part of the Yale Metal Geochemistry Center. His research integrates radiogenic isotope geochemistry (e.g., Re-Os, Sr, Nd) with field-based methods like sedimentology and stratigraphy to investigate tectonic, climatic, and biologic transitions in Earth history. Current projects include refining Neoproterozoic chronology, studying Mid-Pleistocene ice sheet dynamics, and advancing EARTHTIME’s Re-Os geochronometer standards. His research interests are centered on three main areas: 1) Proterozoic tectonics and eukaryotic diversification, 2) ice sheet dynamics over the last 5 million years using multiple geochemical proxies, and 3) radiogenic isotopes as tracers of crustal-mantle processes. He collaborates with researchers at Dartmouth College, Oxford University, and other institutions to address these topics. The Rooney Lab emphasizes experimental approaches, such as simulating seafloor weathering of mafic rocks, to better understand isotopic fluxes into the sedimentary record. His articles highlight a focus on geochronology and isotopic analysis to unravel climate-tectonic interactions, with recent work emphasizing the Great Oxidation Event, Ediacaran biogeochemical shifts, and Mid-Pleistocene glacial variability. These studies often combine field observations with laboratory experiments to deconvolve complex Earth system processes. Dr. Rooney has no listed scientific awards. He advises three graduate students: Gryphen Goss, Sam Shipman, and Carey Ciaburri. The lab’s NSF-funded involvement in EARTHTIME underscores its commitment to advancing geochronological standards. The Rooney Geochronology Lab operates within ultra-clean facilities equipped with advanced mass spectrometers (e.g., Thermo Fisher Neptune-Plus MC-ICP-MS, Triton-Plus TIMS), adjacent to the Microprobe Facility’s electron microprobe resources, enabling precise geochemical and petrological analyses.
Eleanor Jennings is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Natural Sciences, Birkbeck, University of London. Her research focuses on Earth's origin and evolution, employing geochemical methods to study planetary differentiation processes. She investigates trace element partitioning between liquid metals and silicates under high pressure, ferropicrite magma origins, and igneous fractionation processes using mineral inclusions. Jennings teaches courses such as Planetary Interiors, Planetary Materials, and Volcanism in the Solar System. Her work integrates experimental petrology, thermodynamic modeling, and analytical techniques to explore core-mantle interactions, mantle melting dynamics, and extraterrestrial materials (e.g., lunar samples). She supervises three doctoral researchers at Birkbeck, focusing on topics like mantle heterogeneity and planetary geochemistry. Jennings' publications span experimental studies on metal-silicate partitioning, mantle melting models, and lunar petrogenesis. Her research outputs emphasize quantitative geochemical analyses and their implications for understanding Earth's formation and internal processes.
Timothy Grover is Professor of Geology and Chair of the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Northern Colorado, part of the College of Natural and Health Sciences. He has held leadership and academic positions in geosciences for over a decade, previously serving as Chair of Natural Sciences at Castleton University. Ph.D. in Geology – University of Oregon M.S. in Geology – University of Oregon B.S. in Geology (Honors) – St. Lawrence University Dr. Grover's research centers on metamorphic petrology, tectonics, and petrochronology , with a focus on the geologic evolution of high-grade metamorphic terranes. His work in the eastern Adirondacks integrates field observations with advanced laboratory techniques including electron microprobe analysis and geochronology of zircon and monazite. He investigates Mesoproterozoic crustal evolution through detailed petrofabric and metamorphic mineral chemistry studies. The breadth of his scholarly output reflects a strong commitment to both fundamental research and applied geological mapping. His publications span from detailed bedrock mapping in Maine to tectonometamorphic studies in Precambrian terranes of Canada. Collectively, his work contributes to understanding crustal deformation, metamorphic processes, and the timing of geologic events in ancient orogenic systems. While no specific scientific awards are listed in the provided text, his sustained research productivity and leadership roles indicate recognition within the geological community. Dr. Grover oversees departmental operations and research initiatives, mentoring students through field and laboratory-based projects. Although individual advisees are not named, his active research program suggests involvement in graduate and undergraduate research supervision. He has secured research opportunities involving integrated field and lab methodologies. His work is closely tied to geological survey efforts and academic field research programs, particularly in the northeastern United States and northwestern Canada. These projects often involve collaborative teams focused on regional tectonic synthesis and high-precision geochronology.
Professor Victoria C. Smith is a leading volcanologist at the School of Archaeology, University of Oxford. Her research focuses on tephrochronology, using volcanic ash layers to date and correlate sedimentary and archaeological records. She manages Oxford's electron microprobe facilities and cryptotephra laboratory, supporting global research on explosive volcanism. Research Interests : Volcanology, tephrostratigraphy, magmatic processes, and paleoenvironmental reconstruction. Geographic Focus : Italy, Mexico, Japan, Azores, Canary Islands, Ethiopian Rift, Antarctica. Her recent publications highlight collaborations in geochronology, magma evolution modeling, and tephra applications in synchronizing climate-human records. She supervises MSc and doctoral students in Archaeological Science, focusing on volcanic ash as chronological tools.
Professor Evgueni Jak is a distinguished Professor in Pyrometallurgy at the School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland (UQ) . He co-founded and directs the Pyrometallurgy Innovation Centre (PYROSEARCH) , leading major research programs in copper and lead thermochemistry with industry partners like Aurubis, BHP, and Rio Tinto. Holding a Master’s in Metallurgy from St Petersburg Polytechnique University (1984) and a PhD in Pyrometallurgy from UQ (1995), he has authored over 400 scientific papers and secured substantial funding, including ARC Linkage (2002-06) and Trailblazer (2023-2026) grants. Education: Master of Engineering (Metallurgy), St Petersburg Polytechnique University, Russia (1984) PhD in Pyrometallurgy, The University of Queensland (1995) His research focuses on pyrometallurgy and high-temperature processing , including experimental phase equilibria, thermodynamic modeling of slag systems (e.g., Al2O3-CaO-FeO-Fe2O3-SiO2-PbO-ZnO), and viscosity modeling. Key contributions involve developing methodologies for measuring phase equilibria, optimizing industrial processes, and studying slag-refractory interactions. His 15 most recent articles highlight trends in thermodynamic modeling, element distribution in slag-metal systems, and sustainable metallurgy. Professor Jak has received numerous scientific awards , including the 2002 UQ Foundation Excellence Award , multiple Best Paper Awards from journals like Metallurgical Transactions and Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly, and the TMS Extraction and Processing Science Award (2018, 2020) . His work spans fundamental research and industrial applications , with a focus on computational thermodynamics and process optimization. He leads major collaborations with global companies and has contributed to the FactSage thermodynamic database.
Andrew M. McDonald is a Professor of Mineralogy and Petrology at Laurentian University's Harquail School of Earth Sciences. He holds adjunct professorships at the University of Ottawa (1999–2004) and University of Western Ontario (1994–1995). His research focuses on applying mineralogy to understand alkaline rock evolution, rare metal exploration (Ta/Nb), and atomic structure-property relationships in minerals. He has supervised over 15 graduate students and co-authored >150 peer-reviewed publications since 2010. Education: B.Sc. (Toronto), M.Sc. & Ph.D. (Carleton University). Courses taught include Mineralogy I, Optical Mineralogy, and Advanced Mineralogy. Research themes include mineral exploration, ore deposit systems (VMS/Au), and material science applications of mineral structures. Notable achievements: 2016 James Edwin Hawley Medal (Mineralogical Association of Canada), Fellow of International Centre for Diffraction Data (2002), and leadership roles in professional societies. Current projects involve crystal chemistry of titanosilicates, kamafugite volcanology (Brazil), and tourmaline studies in rare-element pegmatites. His 15 most recent articles span mineral classification debates, PGE mineralogy, and porphyry Cu indicator minerals. Research groups include collaborations with institutions in Canada, Brazil, Tanzania, and Finland. Active in mineral discovery (e.g., Coldwellite, Pd3Ag2S) and methodological advancements in X-ray diffraction analysis.
Frank Tepley is a Professor and Program Director in the Geology Program at Oregon State University’s College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences. He specializes in igneous petrology, isotope geochemistry, and electron probe microscopy. His research focuses on magma dynamics, crustal contamination processes, and volcanic system evolution. Tepley holds a B.S. in Geology from California State University, Northridge (1991) and a Ph.D. in Geochemistry from UCLA (1999). His work includes studies on mid-ocean ridge basalts, arc volcanism in Peru and New Zealand, and the application of microprobe analysis to trace magma histories. He directs the Electron Microprobe Laboratory and has led fieldwork on submarine volcanoes like Brothers Volcano in the Kermadec Arc. Key areas of exploration include magma mixing timescales, volcanic eruption chronology, and the role of hydrothermal systems in metal transport. Education: B.S. Geology, California State University, Northridge (1991) Ph.D. Geochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles (1999) Research interests emphasize volcanic processes, including magma storage, crustal assimilation, and the use of mineral isotopes to reconstruct magmatic histories. Recent studies explore the evolution of Misti Volcano (Peru), Kermadec Arc submarine systems, and mid-ocean ridge geochemistry. His analytical contributions include refining techniques for trace element and Sr-isotope analysis in plagioclase feldspars. Publications highlight advancements in understanding magma dynamics through crystal-scale geochemistry and experimental petrology. Current projects focus on volcanic hazard assessment via tephra analysis and magmatic timescale modeling. Tepley’s lab supports collaborative research in electron microprobe analysis for mineral characterization.
Robert Martin is Professor of Nanoscience in the Department of Physics at the University of Strathclyde, Faculty of Science. He has held key leadership roles including Head of Department (2010–2014) and Vice-Dean (Research) for the Faculty of Science (2014–2020). His research is deeply integrated with SUPA (Scottish Universities Physics Alliance) and the Measurement, Digital and Enabling Technologies theme. He maintains an active research profile with numerous ongoing projects and collaborations. His research focuses on semiconductor physics, particularly group III nitride semiconductors (GaN, AlGaN), gallium oxide and its alloys, and photovoltaic materials. He applies advanced techniques such as optical spectroscopy, electron-beam spectroscopy, cathodoluminescence, and photoluminescence to study material properties at the nanoscale. His work also involves the characterization of semiconductor devices and thin films, with applications in optoelectronics and quantum technologies. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in materials characterization, strain engineering, and optoelectronic behavior of wide bandgap semiconductors. Topics include GaN-based structures, Ga₂O₃ polymorphs, perovskite heterogeneity, and novel epitaxial growth methods like molecular beam epitaxy of boron arsenide. These works reflect a consistent focus on next-generation semiconductor materials for energy-efficient and radiation-resilient devices. Robert Martin has co-authored over 325 refereed publications and holds three patents. His research is supported by multiple grants, including EPSRC-funded projects and industry collaborations such as with Kubos Semiconductors Ltd. He actively supervises research students and contributes to major research initiatives like the UK Nitrides Consortium and the Quantum Technology School. He is involved in several research labs and equipment facilities, including the CAMECA SX100 electron microprobe and ESEM Quanta 250, where cathodoluminescence and electron-beam imaging are performed. His team contributes to datasets on electroluminescence and cathodoluminescence mapping, supporting open science and reproducible research. Professional Activities: Organiser, 3rd Workshop on Semiconductor Cathodoluminescence and Electron Beam Induced Current (2025) Speaker, Quantum Technology School 2024 Organiser, UK Nitrides Consortium 2024 Speaker, SPIE Photonics West 2023 Member of editorial boards and peer review panels
Dr. Maksym Shevchenko is a Senior Research Fellow at the School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering (2019) and M.Sc. in Chemistry (2012) from Kyiv National Taras Shevchenko University. His research focuses on high-temperature phase equilibria and thermodynamic modeling for metallurgical processes. University of Queensland (Senior Research Fellow, 2019–present) Frantsevich Institute (Leading Engineer, 2012–2015) His work investigates element distribution between slag/matte/metal phases, refractory-slag interactions, and thermodynamic optimization of multicomponent systems. Key applications include copper, lead, and zinc processing with sustainability considerations for slag recycling and waste valorization. Recent articles examine phase equilibria in CuO0.5-CaO-AlO1.5 systems, Pb-Zn-Fe-As partitioning, and electrical conductivity of iron silicate slags. His methodologies combine experimental studies with thermodynamic modeling for industrial process improvements.
Arya Udry is an Associate Professor and Graduate Coordinator in the Department of Geoscience at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Her research focuses on planetary igneous petrology, particularly Martian magmatic processes and meteorite analysis. She leads the eXtraterrestrial Petrology Lab (XPL), collaborating on NASA's Mars 2020 Perseverance rover mission to analyze Martian igneous and sedimentary rocks. Dr. Udry holds a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee (2014), and M.S. and B.S. degrees from the University of Lausanne, Switzerland (2010 and 2008). Her work integrates field observations, laboratory analyses (e.g., electron microprobe, LA-ICP-MS), and thermodynamic modeling to study Martian crustal evolution, enstatite-rich meteorites, and planetary magmatism. Her research highlights include constraining Martian mantle sources, investigating felsic rock formation in Jezero Crater, and advancing understanding of Mercury-analog meteorites. Udry has published extensively on Martian meteorites, rover data interpretation, and Mars sample return strategies. She mentors students in planetary science, including recipients of NASA FINESST and NVSGC fellowships. Teaching responsibilities include courses such as GEOL 101 (Introductory Geology), GEOL 427 (Igneous/Metamorphic Petrology), and GEOL 470 (Planetary Geology). Her lab's current projects emphasize rover-derived data analysis for Mars' geologic history and preparation for future sample return missions.
Eva Pålsgård is an Associate Professor in Engineering Physics with a focus on Microsystems Engineering at Uppsala University. She currently serves as a Research Advisor at the University Administration, specifically within the Office for Technology and Natural Sciences, Unit for Research Support. Her work focuses on Horizon Europe initiatives including EIC & EIT RawMaterials, Energy, Biotechnology KIC, with expertise spanning biomaterials, energy systems, and sustainable development. Dr. Pålsgård earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Ion dynamics in insulin-producing cells. Her academic journey includes: Marie Curie Fellow (1998) Postdoctoral fellow and researcher at the University of Oxford (1994-1999) Eva's research spans multiple interdisciplinary fields with a strong focus on materials science and biomedical applications . Her work in biomaterials has led to significant contributions in bone implant technology, particularly with nano-porous alumina coatings that improve osseointegration. She has also conducted important research in energy systems , nuclear engineering , and sustainable development , with specific expertise in electrochemical energy storage and nuclear fission/fusion technologies. Her methodology often involves advanced nuclear microscopy and X-ray microanalysis techniques to study elemental distributions in biological systems. Analysis of Dr. Pålsgård's publication record reveals a clear evolution in her research focus. Early in her career, she concentrated on cellular biology, particularly studying ion dynamics in insulin-producing cells using nuclear microscopy techniques. Over time, her research shifted toward biomaterials and bone implant technology, with numerous publications on nano-porous alumina coatings for medical applications. More recently, her work has expanded into energy systems and sustainable development, reflecting her current role advising on Horizon Europe initiatives in these areas. This progression demonstrates her ability to apply fundamental materials science principles across diverse application domains. Among her notable recognitions: Marie Curie Fellow (1998) As a Research Advisor for Horizon Europe programs, Dr. Pålsgård provides strategic guidance on research funding applications, particularly in the areas of EIC & EIT RawMaterials, Energy, and Biotechnology KIC. Her extensive background in both academic research and industry (including previous positions at VINNOVA, Pharmacia Diagnostics, Q-Med, and Karolinska Institutet) gives her unique insights into translating research into practical applications. She has been involved in numerous collaborative projects bridging academia and industry in the fields of biomaterials, energy systems, and sustainable technologies. Dr. Pålsgård's research has been conducted through collaborations with multiple institutions including the University of Oxford, Karolinska Institutet, and Chalmers University of Technology. Her work on bone implant interfaces involved interdisciplinary teams combining expertise in materials science, orthopedics, and cellular biology. Currently, through her advisory role, she connects researchers across Europe working on sustainable energy solutions, raw materials innovation, and biotechnology applications.
Michael J. Jercinovic is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth, Geographic, and Climate Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he also serves as Director of the Electron Microprobe Laboratory (EMSEMF). His research focuses on advancing microanalytical techniques for geological materials, particularly through the development of high-precision electron microprobe methods. His primary research interests include: Development of electron microprobe methods for trace element analysis and geochronology Design and application of the SX-Ultrachron, a custom-built instrument optimized for sub-micron scale analysis of minerals like zircon, monazite, xenotime, thorite, and uraninite Investigating tectonic histories through microscale geochronology in regions such as Norway, Canada, the Lake Superior region, the southwestern U.S., Western Australia, the Adirondacks, the Appalachians, and Idaho Microanalysis of optical fibers and trace elements in geological materials using Electron Probe Microanalysis (EPMA) His work represents a major advancement in materials microanalysis, enabling unprecedented precision and spatial resolution for understanding the timing and rates of complex tectonic processes. The SX-Ultrachron, developed in collaboration with Cameca, Inc. and Michael L. Williams, is the only instrument of its kind capable of sub-micron trace element and geochronological analysis. He has been involved in collaborative studies on some of the oldest materials on Earth, including monazite and xenotime inclusions within zircons from Western Australia, contributing to fundamental insights into early Earth history. While no specific scientific awards are listed in the provided text, his leadership in developing cutting-edge instrumentation underscores his significant contributions to the field of geochemical microanalysis. Michael J. Jercinovic advises students through his role as a faculty member and research director, though specific advisees are not named. His laboratory, EMSEMF, functions as a key research hub for microanalytical geoscience. He has secured collaborative support for instrument development, particularly in partnership with Cameca, Inc., indicating successful grant and project leadership. The EMSEMF laboratory, under his direction, supports advanced research in mineral chemistry and geochronology, serving both academic and applied research needs in Earth sciences.
