Frank Ernst is a Leonard Case Jr. Professor of Engineering in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Case Western Reserve University. He holds a PhD in Physical Metallurgy from the University of Göttingen (1987) and a Habilitation in Materials Science from the University of Stuttgart (1997). His research focuses on microstructure characterization, surface engineering of alloys, and defects in crystalline materials, with applications in biomedical devices and corrosion-resistant materials. Teaching: Materials science, solid-state physics, and microcharacterization methodologies. Research: Explores semiconductor heterostructures, metal-ceramic interfaces, and advanced TEM techniques (e.g., high-resolution, analytical, and energy-filtering TEM). Key research includes low-temperature carburization of stainless steels for enhanced mechanical and electrochemical properties, and novel surface engineering approaches for structural alloys. Ernst has authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications and received the John S. Diekhoff Award for Distinguished Graduate Teaching (2017). Notable awards: John S. Diekhoff Award (2017). Grants and advising: Leads projects on corrosion-resistant alloys, surface hardening, and interfacial phenomena. Collaborates widely with industry and academic partners. Labs/Teams: Directs research groups in materials characterization and surface engineering, with emphasis on biomedical and energy-related applications.
Silvia Richter is a Researcher and Group Leader in Electron Probe Microanalysis (EPMA) at the Central Facility for Electron Microscopy, RWTH Aachen University. Her work focuses on materials characterization, tribology, and microstructure analysis, with applications in metallurgy and mechanical engineering. She leads a team conducting advanced EPMA studies and collaborates on projects involving wear-resistant materials, high-entropy alloys, and failure analysis in steels. Research Interests : Quantitative EPMA of low-Z elements, development of advanced microanalysis techniques, and investigation of material behavior under extreme conditions. Her EPMA expertise spans diverse fields including corrosion, lubrication systems, and alloy design. Key Contributions : Recent work includes studies on wear protection mechanisms in lubricated bearings, crystallization modeling of slags, and high-resolution EPMA methods using spherical harmonics. Her articles address both fundamental material science and applied engineering challenges. Labs & Affiliations : Central Facility for Electron Microscopy (RWTH Aachen) provides state-of-the-art equipment for electron microscopy and microanalysis, enabling her team's interdisciplinary research across academia and industry.
Harold Stowell is a Professor in the Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Alabama. He holds a BS from Florida State University (1978), MS from the University of South Carolina (1981), and PhD from Princeton University (1987). His research focuses on tectonic processes, magmatic arc evolution, metamorphic rock dynamics, and geochronology using advanced tools like mass spectrometry and electron probe microanalysis. He currently accepts MS/PhD advisees. Education: BS in Geology, Florida State University, 1978 MS in Geology, University of South Carolina, 1981 PhD in Geology, Princeton University, 1987 Key research areas include partial melting in orogenic belts, garnet growth mechanisms, and pressure-temperature-time path analysis. His lab utilizes state-of-the-art equipment such as the VG Sector 54 mass spectrometer and JEOL 8600 electron probe. While no specific awards are listed, his work contributes significantly to structural geology and high-temperature geochemical studies.
Paraskevas Kontis is an Associate Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) within the Department of Materials Science and Engineering and the Physical Metallurgy group. His research focuses on atomic-scale structure-property relationships in high-performance alloys under extreme environments, including superalloys for aero-engines and hydrogen-resistant materials. He leads projects like HyWay (EU-funded) to develop multiscale hydrogen interaction analysis frameworks and serves as NTNU Representative for the European IAM-I initiative. His work integrates Atom Probe Tomography (APT) , electron microscopy, and computational modeling to advance alloy design. Recent publications emphasize superalloy microstructure evolution , laser processing of semiconductors , and hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms . He also contributes to educational programs at NTNU, including courses in experimental material chemistry and advanced materials science. Outstanding Academic Fellow , NTNU (2024-2027) European IAM-I initiative representative and EASN NCP since 2024
Richard Hailstone is an Associate Professor at the Chester F. Carlson Center for Imaging Science within the College of Science at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). His work focuses on electron microscopy and materials characterization, with expertise in Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy. Education: BS from Northern Illinois University, MS from Indiana University Research interests include improving scanning electron microscope resolution through point spread function determination and image restoration, alkali-activated materials for sustainable cement, and self-healing thermoplastic blends. He collaborates with industry and academic partners such as Eric Lifshin (SUNY Polytechnic), Nathan Cahill (RIT), and Brian Landi (RIT), with recent publications on quantum dots, carbon dots, and SEM wave optics. He manages the NanoImaging Laboratory at RIT, which houses advanced equipment like Tescan Mira3 and Zeiss Supra 40 VP SEMs, JEOL TEMs, and software tools like Nanojehm's Aura system for PSF analysis. Students under his mentorship, including Surya Kamal and Kevin Mogere Nyaburi, contribute to projects on nanomaterials and imaging algorithms.
apl. Prof. Dr. habil. Bernhard Schulz is an Associate Professor for Petrology at the Chair of Mineral Deposits and Petrology, Institute of Mineralogy, Faculty of Geosciences, Geotechnology and Mining at Freiberg University of Mining and Technology (TU Bergakademie Freiberg) in Germany. He has held this position since 2005, following previous academic roles at the Universities of Würzburg, Erlangen-Nuremberg, and earlier appointments as a lecturer and research fellow. His scholarly work spans metamorphic petrology, geochronology, and mineral deposit studies with particular expertise in electron microprobe monazite dating and SEM-based automated mineralogy techniques. Professor Schulz's research focuses on metamorphic rocks and petrochronology, employing methods including geothermobarometry, EPMA-Th-U-Pb-monazite dating, microstructure analysis, and geochemistry to reconstruct geodynamic processes and mineral deposit formation. His work covers regions including the Eastern Alps, Saxony, Armorican Massif, and South America. He also investigates ores and processed ores using SEM-based automated mineralogy methods (MLA) for characterizing metal ores, technical mineral processing, and recycling processes. His analytical expertise includes SEM automated mineralogy with MLA and EPMA electron probe microanalysis for silicates and Th-U-Pb-CHIME dating of monazite. Analysis of his recent publications reveals strong trends in metamorphic petrology, geochronology (particularly monazite dating), ore deposit geology, and SEM-based mineralogy applications. His work spans diverse geological settings from the Variscan orogeny in Europe to Precambrian terranes in Africa and South America. The research demonstrates consistent methodological innovation, particularly in electron microprobe techniques for dating and characterizing metamorphic events and ore formation processes across different geological timescales. Hermann-Credner-Preis 1990 der Deutschen Geologischen Gesellschaft (1990) Korrespondent der Geologischen Bundesanstalt in Wien (2001) Ernennung zum Professor apl. an der Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (2003) Professor Schulz has served on multiple review committees including the Scientific Priority Program (SPP) 1144 'From Mantle to Ocean: Energy, Material and Life Cycles at Spreading Axes' and SPP 1158 'Antarctica Research' (both Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft). He has received research fellowships from the German Research Foundation (DFG) and maintains active international collaborations, particularly with institutions in France, Switzerland, Austria, and the United States. His current research involves extensive fieldwork in metamorphic terranes across Europe, Africa, and South America, with a strong emphasis on methodological development in geochronology and mineral characterization. Professor Schulz works within the Institute of Mineralogy at Freiberg University, where he leads research on metamorphic petrology and mineral deposits. His team utilizes state-of-the-art analytical facilities including a Quanta 600 FEG SEM for automated mineralogy and a JEOL electron microprobe for EPMA analysis. He collaborates closely with Dr. Joachim Krause at the Helmholtz Institute Freiberg for Resource Technology, sharing access to advanced JEOL-JXA-8530-FEG instrumentation. His research group maintains strong connections with international laboratories including Géosciences Rennes and Université Paris Jussieu in France.
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Lutz Nasdala is a Professor at the Institute of Mineralogy and Crystallography within the Faculty of Earth Sciences, Geography and Astronomy at the University of Vienna. He serves as Deputy Head of the Institute and has been active in teaching courses such as 'System Erde', 'Mineralogy', and 'Crystal Optics' since 2025. His research focuses on spectroscopic techniques in mineralogy, particularly Raman spectroscopy , luminescence , and radiation damage in minerals . Professor Nasdala has organized and led numerous international workshops and training courses on gemstone analysis, including programs in Italy, Thailand, and Russia. He has been an invited speaker at conferences like the GeoRAMAN Conference and International Gemmological Conference , emphasizing applications of spectroscopy to earth sciences. Research Highlights Specialized in zircon and monazite radiation damage Innovations in luminescence for gemstone heat treatment detection Expertise in microspectroscopy and electron microprobe analysis Contributions to historical gemology via studies on the Holy Roman Empire Crown Selected Publications 2025: Luminescence and a new approach for detecting heat treatment of geuda sapphire 2024: Evidence for oceans pre-4300 Ma in Hadean zircon 2023: Photoluminescence of historical crown gemstones
Peter Horváth is an Adjunct Professor in Earth Sciences at Furman University, with a focus on metamorphic petrology, mineral chemistry, and phase equilibrium modeling. His work spans field studies, lab analyses, and computational modeling of mineral stability, particularly in regions like Hungary, Croatia, South Africa, and the U.S. Education: PhD in Petrology-Geochemistry (2002) and MSc in Geology (1997) from Eötvös University, Budapest, Hungary. Professional Roles: Postdoctoral fellowship at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (2008-2010), lecturer at Rhodes University, and Electron Probe Microanalysis Scientist at the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. Currently manages electron probe labs at Furman University. His research centers on reconstructing pressure-temperature histories of metamorphic rocks using quantitative phase diagrams and thermobarometry. Key interests include Earth Systems sciences, geothermobarometry, and mineral chemistry, with applications in diverse geological settings. Recent publications highlight work on the Wyoming Craton, South African igneous complexes, and Croatian metamorphic belts, reflecting his expertise in integrating field data with lab analyses. Awards include the Szádeczky-Kardoss Award (1999, 2001) and an NRF Postdoctoral fellowship (2008-2010). Scientific Contributions: Peer-review editorial work for Geological Journal (2014-2018) and membership in the Hungarian Geological Society, Geological Society of South Africa, and Microscopy Society of America.
Dr. Yug Joshi is a Researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials , specifically within the Department of Microstructure Physics and Alloy Design . His research focuses on the microstructure and interfaces of battery materials, particularly investigating cathode and anode degradation mechanisms, solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation, and lithium-ion transport dynamics. He employs advanced techniques such as operando optical microscopy, time-resolved microgravimetry, and atom probe tomography to study materials like lithium cobalt oxide, tin, silicon, and lithium titanate. His work emphasizes the development of high-capacity battery electrodes and understanding phase transitions, electrochemical cycling behavior, and material stability. Joshi collaborates on interdisciplinary projects, including modular atom probe concepts integrating APT-FIB/SEM systems for nanoscale analysis. His research contributes to improving energy storage technologies through fundamental insights into material microstructure and electrochemical processes. Awards and grants are not explicitly listed in the provided information. His affiliations include the Max Planck Institute, and he can be contacted at y.joshi@mpg.de .
Anette von der Handt is a Researcher and Electron Microprobe Specialist at the University of British Columbia's Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, within the Faculty of Science. She previously held roles including Research Associate Professor and Lab Manager at the University of Minnesota and Assistant Professor (Akademische Rätin) at the University of Freiburg. Her expertise spans geochemistry, petrology, and advanced microscopy techniques. Education: PhD (Dr. rer. nat) in Geochemistry, Max-Planck Institute for Chemistry, Mainz (2008) Master's (Diplom-Geologin), Max-Planck Institute for Chemistry, Mainz (2003) Research Interests: Quantitative microanalysis of light elements (B, C, N, O, F) Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) at low accelerating voltages Trace element analysis for thermobarometry Development of reference materials and novel analytical methods Applications in mantle processes and metamorphic petrology Key Contributions: Her work focuses on improving analytical precision in EPMA and SXES, with notable contributions to understanding melt-rock interactions in oceanic ridges and metamorphic processes. She developed the Probelab ReImager software for electron microscopy workflows and co-authored influential studies in Nature and Geology . Labs/Teams: Leads the Electron Microprobe Lab at UBC and collaborates globally on projects involving oceanic crust, mantle dynamics, and mineralogical analysis.
Quinton Phelps is an Associate Professor in the Department of Natural Resource Management at South Dakota State University (SDSU) and serves as Assistant Unit Leader for the U.S. Geological Survey’s South Dakota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. An internationally recognized expert in applied fisheries management, his work integrates field experience with advanced science to address recreational harvest optimization, invasive species control, and aquaculture stocking programs. He collaborates extensively with state, federal, tribal, and international partners to ensure research outcomes directly benefit aquatic ecosystems and angling sustainability. Education: Ph.D. from Southern Illinois University M.S. from South Dakota State University B.S. from South Dakota State University A.S. from Coffeyville Community College Phelps' research focuses on fisheries management, invasive species ecology (particularly Asian carps), fish population dynamics, and river ecosystem conservation. His methodologies include mark-recapture techniques, otolith/fin-ray analysis, Bayesian modeling, and ecosystem assessments. Key study systems include the Mississippi River basin, where he investigates invasive carp impacts, sturgeon migration, and reservoir fisheries. His recent publications (2019–2025) demonstrate a strong emphasis on invasive carp ecology, fish marking technologies (e.g., strontium/alizarin applications), and population dynamics modeling. Research frequently addresses conservation challenges in large river basins, leveraging collaborations across North America and China. Phelps leads field and lab operations at the USGS South Dakota Cooperative Unit, facilitating interdisciplinary research on fish and wildlife conservation. The unit’s McFadden Biostress Laboratory supports advanced analytical work, including electron probe microanalysis for mark validation.
Dr. Keita Nomoto is an ARC DECRA Research Fellow at the University of Sydney's School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, working within the Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis (ACMM). His research focuses on advanced microscopy techniques to characterize microstructures of materials at atomic scales, including silicon nanocrystals, bulk metallic glasses, and copper-based alloys. He holds a PhD from UNSW (2017), a master's from Kyushu University (Japan), and a bachelor's from University of Miyazaki (Japan). Prior to academia, he worked at SHARP Corporation (2002-2007). Research interests include structure-property relationships in materials, with emphasis on sustainable applications. Current projects explore high-performance copper alloys via additive manufacturing and mechanical behaviors of bulk metallic glasses. Nomoto has received awards such as the 2022 DECRA and 2014 Commonwealth Scholarship. His work spans 100+ peer-reviewed articles in journals like Advanced Materials , Acta Materialia , and Nature Communications . Key grants include a 2023 Linkage Project on copper alloys and a 2021 DECRA project on additive manufacturing. He advises students like Kirk Chen on novel materials development. Labs/affiliations include the Sydney Nano Institute and ACMM. Research highlights include discovering medium-range order effects on bulk metallic glass hardness and developing Mg alloys with unprecedented strength-to-weight ratios.
Dr. Levi Tegg is a Researcher at the University of Sydney, affiliated with the Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis and the Net Zero Institute. His academic background includes a BSc (Hons) and PhD from the University of Newcastle. He specializes in advanced microscopy techniques to study material microstructures, particularly ferroelectric materials and nanoporous metals. His research focuses on linking microstructural properties to real-world applications such as energy storage and photovoltaics. Current projects include domain structure analysis in ferroelectrics, cryogenic atom probe tomography workflows, and hydrogen-embrittlement in alloys. Education: BSc (Hons) in Materials Science and Physics from the University of Newcastle (2020 PhD). Research interests span materials characterization via electron microscopy, powder diffraction, and plasmonics. He collaborates with institutions like Sydney Nano and the Australian Microscopy and Microanalysis Society (AMMS). Key projects include studying relaxor ferroelectrics' domain structures, nanoporous metals for energy applications, and optimizing atom probe tomography techniques. He advises PhD student Nathan Brichta on relaxor ferroelectric crystal characterization. Affiliations: Member of Sydney Nano Institute, Net Zero Initiative, AMMS, and Australian Nanotechnology Network. His work bridges fundamental material science with applied technologies, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration.
Jeanne Paquette is an Associate Professor at McGill University, specializing in crystallography and geochemistry. Her research investigates crystal growth mechanisms, impurity incorporation, and morphological development in carbonate minerals. Research Focus: Uses atomic force microscopy, electron probe microanalysis, and cathodoluminescence to study growth zoning and defect structures in calcite, barite, and diopside crystals under controlled laboratory conditions and natural environments. Teaching: Leads undergraduate courses in mineralogy and invertebrate paleontology, emphasizing hands-on laboratory analysis and field methods. Developed curriculum integrating crystallography theory with practical identification techniques.
HODROJ Abbas is a Researcher-Lecturer at CESI (Lingolsheim, Strasbourg), affiliated with the Engineering and Numerical Tools research team. He holds a PhD (2007) and Master's degree (2003) in Energy Physics with a Materials Science specialization from Grenoble INP. His research focuses on advanced materials and processes, including nanotechnology, additive manufacturing, surface treatments, nanomaterials, composites, and metallic materials. He also explores future industry trends and materials innovation. Teaching activities include physics, engineering, and materials sciences using both traditional and active learning methods, alongside supervising preparatory and engineering cycle students. Abbas has published widely in materials science, with notable contributions to diamond coatings, conductive nitrides, and thin film characterization. He serves as a reviewer for Surface and Coatings Technology and has supervised trainees across multiple academic levels. His work bridges research and education, emphasizing practical applications in materials engineering.
