Prof. Keikhosro Karimi is a Professor in the Department of Bio-engineering Sciences at Vrije Universiteit Brussel. His research focuses on sustainable biorefinery systems, waste valorization, and biofuel production. Key areas include biomass pretreatment, bioenergy optimization, and circular economy strategies for industrial and agricultural residues. Research Projects STEP-Chem (2025–2029): Technological strategies for a sustainable chemical industry. IPSU 2024: Smart biorefinery concepts for municipal biowaste valorization in Europe. Research Interests Prof. Karimi’s work integrates advanced pretreatment technologies, machine learning optimization, and life cycle assessment to address sustainability challenges in bioenergy systems. He explores innovative approaches for converting lignocellulosic biomass, marine macroalgae, and food industry byproducts into biofuels, biochemicals, and high-value materials. Recent Contributions Recent studies highlight breakthroughs in ultrasound-assisted biomass processing , fish waste biorefining , and blockchain-enabled food waste management . His work emphasizes scalability, economic viability, and environmental impact mitigation in bioprocess design. Grants & Collaborations Active collaborations include EU-funded initiatives and industry partnerships focused on bio-based economies. Ongoing projects aim to harmonize technological, socio-economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainable chemical production.
Howard Fairbrother is a Professor and Interim Chair in the Department of Chemistry at Johns Hopkins University, with a joint appointment in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. He leads an active research group at the intersection of environmental chemistry, surface science, and materials chemistry, focusing on nanostructures, nanomaterials, and sustainable technologies. Education: B.A. in Chemistry, Oxford University, 1989 Ph.D. in Chemistry, Northwestern University, 1994 Postdoctoral Research, University of California, Berkeley, 1994–1997 His research spans environmental implications of nanomaterials, electron/ion-induced deposition processes, and sustainable applications such as nutrient delivery systems and microplastic analysis. He employs advanced techniques including XPS, AFM, TEM, SEM, and mass spectrometry. His work is highly collaborative, involving the NSF-funded Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology (CSN), EPA, NIST, and multiple academic institutions. Recent publications (2021–2025) reveal a strong focus on environmental nanotechnology, including micro/nanoplastics, carbon dots, biodegradable nanocomposites, and gas separation membranes. The research integrates materials synthesis, surface characterization, and environmental fate studies, with applications in sustainable agriculture, environmental monitoring, and semiconductor technology. Scientific Awards: Fellow of the American Chemical Society (2011) National Science Foundation CAREER Award (2000) Outstanding Graduate Thesis Award, Northwestern University (1994) Professor Fairbrother advises several graduate students and maintains the JHU Surface Analysis Facility. He has served as Senior Editor for the Journal of Physical Chemistry and held leadership roles in the American Chemical Society’s Colloids and Surface Chemistry Division. His group actively engages in interdisciplinary research, mentoring, and innovation in both environmental and materials sciences. His lab collaborates with researchers across JHU, including the Department of Geography and Environmental Engineering, and external partners such as Mirexus Biotechnologies, the University of Florida, and the University of Maryland. The Fairbrother group emphasizes sustainability, precision materials design, and real-world environmental impact.
J. D. Tovar is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, where he has been a faculty member since 2005. His research group focuses on the design, synthesis, and characterization of organic materials with extended π-electron conjugation for applications in flexible electronics and biomedical devices. His research interests include: Organic and materials chemistry of π-conjugated systems Boron-based aromatics, particularly borepins and their fused derivatives Methano[10]annulene-based electronic materials Photochromic polymers and molecular switches Self-assembling bioelectronic materials using peptide-π conjugates Energy transport in organic electronic materials The recent publications from Prof. Tovar's group emphasize the development of air- and moisture-stable organoboron materials, fine-tuning of aromaticity in fused borepin systems, and the design of functional peptide-based nanomaterials. These works span synthetic organic chemistry, physical characterization, and materials engineering, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to organic electronics and bio-nanomaterials. The research demonstrates a strong trend toward molecular design for controlling electronic, optical, and self-assembly properties in functional materials. Prof. Tovar has successfully advised numerous Ph.D. and M.A. students, many of whom have gone on to postdoctoral positions at institutions like Harvard, NIH, and NIST, or careers in industry at companies such as Solid Biosciences, Church & Dwight, and Kite Pharma. His group has received consistent funding to support graduate students, postdocs, and research activities in the laboratory. He has mentored a diverse cohort including REU students from various universities, indicating active participation in undergraduate research training. The Tovar Research Group operates a well-equipped laboratory focused on organic synthesis, optical and electrochemical characterization, and materials testing. The lab fosters a collaborative environment where students gain expertise in aromatic and polymer chemistry, peptide synthesis, and advanced analytical techniques. Current projects involve cycloparaphenylenes, peptide-π hydrogels, and bioelectronic heterostructures, suggesting ongoing innovation in both fundamental and applied directions.
Michael A. Barry, Ph.D., is a Professor of Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he holds primary and joint appointments as a Consultant in the Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Infectious Diseases), Department of Immunology, and Department of Molecular Medicine. He leads the Virology, Vector and Vaccine Engineering Laboratory, focusing on developing advanced gene therapies, viral vectors, and vaccines for challenging diseases. Institution: Mayo Clinic School: College of Medicine and Science Department: Department of Internal Medicine Academic Rank: Professor Email: barry.michael@mayo.edu Education: Ph.D., Pharmacology and Toxicology, Dartmouth College Postgraduate Trainee, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center B.S., Chemistry, Nebraska Wesleyan University Dr. Barry’s research centers on virology, gene therapy, and vaccine engineering. His lab develops in vivo molecular and viral therapies using adenovirus, adeno-associated virus (AAV), and lipid nanoparticles. Key areas include gene therapy for metabolic diseases like propionic acidemia and Alport syndrome, gene-based vaccines for HIV, influenza, Zika, and SARS-CoV-2, and oncolytic immunotherapy viruses for cancer. His team engineered a single-cycle adenovirus COVID-19 vaccine tested in Phase 1 trials (NCT04839042) and is advancing CRAd657-CD40L for melanoma clinical trials in 2025. They also work on basic virology of Ebola and pandemic influenza, leveraging findings for therapeutic development. His recent publications highlight innovations in adenoviral vector generation (FastAd toolkit), mucosal vaccine delivery, structural insights into adenovirus-blood interactions, and AAV-mediated therapies for musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal conditions. These works reflect a strong trend in translational virology and targeted therapeutics. Scientific Awards: None explicitly mentioned in the provided text. Advising and Grants: Dr. Barry has secured substantial grant funding, including from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs, for projects such as single-cycle SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, oncolytic therapies for kidney cancer, Ebola virus pathogenesis, mucosal HIV vaccines, and Zika virus vaccines. He mentors trainees and supports postdoctoral fellowships, though specific student names are not listed. His lab fosters collaboration across Mayo Clinic centers, including the Center for Individualized Medicine, Center for Regenerative Biotherapeutics, and Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center. Labs and Teams: He directs the Virology, Vector and Vaccine Engineering Laboratory, which focuses on cell-targeted delivery, vector purification, mucosal vaccination, polymer shielding of vectors, and optical imaging for tracking. The lab employs high-throughput screening, genetic engineering, and animal imaging to optimize vector specificity and reduce off-target effects.
James R. Engstrom is a Professor at the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Cornell University and a member of the Graduate Field of Chemistry and Chemical Biology since 2002. His career spans academic research and industrial innovation, notably serving as Vice President at Symyx Technologies (1998–2001). Education B.S., Chemical Engineering, University of Minnesota (1981) Ph.D., Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology (1986) Research Interests Engstrom specializes in gas-surface dynamics , atomic layer deposition , and in-situ monitoring of thin films , with applications in nanoscale electronics , organic thin film electronics , and advanced materials processing . His work integrates chemical engineering principles with cutting-edge techniques like X-ray synchrotron radiation and low-energy ion scattering. Scientific Awards NSF Presidential Young Investigator Award (1991) Lilly Endowment Teaching Fellowship (1995) College of Engineering Teaching Awards (1995, 2003) Fellow of the American Vacuum Society (2005) Teaching Contributions He teaches core courses like Process Dynamics and Control and elective courses such as Microchemical and Microfluidic Systems , with enduring impact through materials on chemical reaction kinetics and research ethics .
Kevin G. Yager serves as the Interim Director for the Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN) at Brookhaven National Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy scientific user facility supporting over 700 researchers annually from universities, industry, and national laboratories worldwide. He also leads the AI-Accelerated Nanoscience group where he pioneers the integration of artificial intelligence with materials science research. Institution: Brookhaven National Laboratory Center: Center for Functional Nanomaterials Group: AI-Accelerated Nanoscience Position: Interim Director & Group Leader Dr. Yager earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from McGill University in 2006 following a B.Sc. in Chemistry with a minor in Computer Science. After postdoctoral research at NIST, he joined Brookhaven National Laboratory in 2010, becoming Group Leader of the Electronic Nanomaterials Group in 2016. His academic journey uniquely combines chemistry, physics, and computer science, providing the foundation for his interdisciplinary research approach. Dr. Yager's research focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence and materials science. He is currently developing AI agents for scientific discovery, conceptualized as a "science exocortex"—an AI expansion to a researcher's cognition and volition. His longstanding interests include non-equilibrium self-assembly of block copolymers, where he has demonstrated techniques to induce these materials to form nanostructures beyond equilibrium configurations. He has made significant contributions to x-ray scattering techniques, particularly in leveraging machine learning for autonomous scientific experiments and data analysis. His publication record shows a clear progression toward increasingly sophisticated AI applications in materials science. The most recent articles demonstrate how AI is being integrated throughout the scientific process, from autonomous experimentation systems to domain-specific knowledge management tools. His work spans computer science, materials science, and physics, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to accelerating scientific discovery. Major Research Themes: AI/ML for Scientific Discovery Autonomous Experimentation Systems Non-equilibrium Self-Assembly Processes Block Copolymer Nanomaterials Engineering Advanced X-ray Scattering Techniques Science Workflow Automation Dr. Yager manages the CFN x-ray scattering user program and collaborates extensively with the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) on synchrotron beamline research. His leadership of a major DOE user facility positions him at the forefront of national efforts to integrate artificial intelligence with traditional scientific methodologies, potentially transforming how scientific discovery is conducted across multiple disciplines.
Eva Blasco is an Associated Group Leader at the Functional Polymeric Materials Research Unit under the Institute of Nanotechnology at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), with affiliations to the University of Heidelberg. Her work bridges 3D printing , polymer chemistry , and nanophotonics , focusing on light-driven material design. Her research centers on photochemically activated 3D printing inks , light-stabilized dynamic materials , and multi-photon lithography . She explores how two-color light absorption , alkoxyamine chemistry , and visible light post-processing enable adaptable microstructures. Key trends include 4D printing , biodegradable inks , and temperature/light-responsive systems . Blasco's publications highlight collaborations with institutions like KIT, University of Heidelberg, and international teams. Her work spans photonic metamaterials , bio-inspired 3D scaffolds , and subtractive laser lithography , often involving interdisciplinary applications of light in material science.
Marcel Mayor is a Full Professor of Chemistry at the University of Basel and Research Unit Chair at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology's Institute of Nanotechnology. He leads the Synthetic Chemistry research unit, focusing on designing functional molecules for nanotechnology applications. His interdisciplinary work bridges synthetic chemistry, molecular electronics, and nanomaterials science. Mayor studied at the University of Bern (Diploma 1991, PhD 1995) and conducted postdoctoral research with Jean-Marie Lehn at Université Louis Pasteur. He became Maître de Conférence at Collège de France (1997-1998) before joining Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe (now KIT) in 1998. His research explores: Molecular electronics and single-molecule devices Carbon-based nanostructures and functional molecules Supramolecular systems for nanotechnology applications Advanced materials for optoelectronics and sensing Recent publications demonstrate innovations in molecular heat engines, single-molecule junctions, bio-conjugation chemistry, and stimuli-responsive materials. Research consistently integrates synthesis, nanofabrication, and physical characterization. Awards: Erwin Schrödinger Award (2004) for Molecules for future Nanoelectronics He directs laboratories at both the University of Basel and KIT, leading interdisciplinary teams in synthetic chemistry, molecular device fabrication, and nanoscale characterization. Current work focuses on quantum interference in molecular wires and chiral nanomaterials.
Dr. Rolf Erni is a leading expert in electron microscopy and materials science. Since 2009, he has served as Head of the Electron Microscopy Center at Empa (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology) and became a Titular Professor at the Department of Materials, ETH Zurich, in 2022. His research spans atomic-scale characterization techniques, including aberration-corrected TEM, low-voltage electron microscopy, in-situ imaging, and valence electron energy-loss spectroscopy. PhD in Materials Science from ETH Zurich (1999-2003) Postdoctoral work at UC Davis and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Former faculty at the University of Antwerp's EMAT Institute Rolf's research bridges fundamental physics of electron scattering with applied studies in nanostructured materials , functional oxides , and energy storage systems . His recent work focuses on operando liquid-phase TEM for battery interfaces, catalysis under reaction conditions, and AI-driven nanoparticle analysis. He has taught advanced microscopy courses at ETH Zurich since 2013, including High Resolution TEM and Diffraction Physics . Rolf actively contributes to scientific governance through memberships in the Scientific Committee of the Fondation pour la recherche en biologie et médecine , COST Action committees, and review panels for international facilities like ePSIC and KNMF. His methodological innovations include correlative microscopy techniques and multislice simulation models that enhance atomic-scale analysis precision.
Wenwen Fang is a Visiting Professor in the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems at Aalto University, affiliated with the Biopolymer Chemistry and Engineering research group within the School of Chemical Engineering. Her work is centered on sustainable biomaterials and green processing technologies. Her research interests span nanocellulose , ionic liquids , cellulose films , fiber spinning , and biorefining , with applications in environmental sensing and biomedical materials. She actively contributes to advancing circular economy principles in materials science. The recent publications demonstrate a strong trend in developing functional, sustainable materials—particularly through solvent-based cellulose processing, novel biorefinery concepts, and smart nanocellulosic sensors. The work integrates green chemistry with advanced material engineering for industrial scalability. Although no formal awards are listed, her research has been highlighted in media coverage by Aalto University, focusing on sustainable textile fiber applications and spinning process optimization. She collaborates extensively with researchers such as Herbert Sixta, Mariko Hummel, and Ingrid Schlapp-Hackl. Her work involves advising on doctoral theses and contributing to large-scale research outputs, though specific students are not named. She is involved in lab-based experimental research, particularly in fiber and film fabrication, and is part of a network focused on sustainable material innovation.
Dr. Dietmar Schlosser is a Group Leader in Environmental Mycology at the Department of Applied Microbial Ecology within the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research - UFZ since 2005. His research program focuses on fungal biodegradation of environmental pollutants, particularly synthetic polymers, micro-pollutants, and recalcitrant organic compounds. Education : Diploma in Biology (1990), Friedrich Schiller University Jena PhD in Technical Microbiology (1993), Friedrich Schiller University Jena His research integrates ecological principles with applied biotechnology , emphasizing fungal biochemistry, physiology, and enzymology. Key projects include: TapNature (2021-2027): Exploiting natural fungal systems for bioeconomy FINEST Microplastics (2022-2027): Sustainable materials management PUreValue (2024-2027): Polyurethane biodegradation for upcycling CLEANER (2023-2026): Water cycle resilience in cities Article trends reveal expertise in mycoremediation , lignocellulose valorization , and fungal attack on synthetic polymers , with recent work spanning environmental engineering, microbiology, and biochemical monitoring techniques. He maintains active collaborations with institutions across Europe and contributes to sustainable technology development through his leadership in Environmental Mycology .
Dr. Frank Alifui-Segbaya is a Senior Lecturer at Griffith University's School of Dentistry and Oral Health, with expertise spanning dental technology, biomaterials, and additive manufacturing (3D printing). He has held academic roles since 2012 and serves as a consultant to Fiji National University. His work focuses on digital design integration, biomaterials analysis, and advancing affordable, safe dental care. Education: PhD in Materials Science (Griffith University, 2018) MPhil in Biomaterials Science (Cardiff Metropolitan University, 2011) Advanced Certificate in Dental Technology (Academia-Dental, Germany, 2006) Research Interests: Additive manufacturing, biomaterials characterization, dental device innovation, zebrafish embryo models for toxicity screening, and CAD/CAM integration in clinical workflows. His work addresses safety, precision, material durability, and environmental ethics in dental technology. Scientific Awards: Recipient of the 2024 Griffith Teaching Awards and Dean's Commendation for educational leadership. His research outputs emphasize technological impact on patient outcomes and global dental care standards.
H. Peter Lu is the Ohio Eminent Scholar and Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Bowling Green State University's College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on Single-molecule spectroscopy Protein conformational dynamics Interfacial electron transfer processes DNA damage recognition mechanisms Lu's work bridges chemical physics and molecular biology through Development of AFM-enhanced optical imaging techniques Investigations into mechanical force effects on biomolecules Studies of ion channel conformational changes Elucidation of non-Markovian enzymatic reaction dynamics His recent publications reveal trends in Mechanically-induced protein aggregation Force-sensitive receptor dynamics Metal ion effects on protein misfolding Biophysics of DNA repair proteins Advanced single-molecule manipulation tools Scientific recognition includes 2019-2020 BGSU Teaching Award 2014 American Physical Society Fellowship 2009 Olscamp Research Award Multiple PNNL Outstanding Performance Awards 2008 Nobel Symposium Invitations Lu's research group trains students in Single-molecule experimental techniques Protein interaction dynamics Advanced biophysical instrumentation Mechanobiology of cellular processes while maintaining collaborations across disciplines including materials science and computational biology.
Dr. Adèle Carradò is a Full Professor in Solid State Physics at the University of Strasbourg (UNISTRA), affiliated with the Institute of Physics and Chemistry of Materials (IPCMS). Her research focuses on bioactive coatings, surface characterization of metallic and multi-layer systems, and mechanical properties of hybrid materials. PhD in Mechanics and Material Science (University of Reims, 2001) HDR (University of Strasbourg, 2004) Research Assistant (University of Ancona, 1997-1998) Post-doc (CEA Saclay, 2002) Her work includes over 70 original articles, two patents, and 50+ invited lectures. She specializes in: Residual stress analysis via neutron and synchrotron radiation Functional thin films for biomedical applications Mechanical behavior of metal/polymer/metal systems 3-layered sandwich structures for lightweight design Zn-Mg alloys for orthopedic implants Surface grafting techniques for biomaterials Recent publications highlight advancements in: Biodegradable Zn-Mg alloys with PMMA coatings ATUM-SEM for bone microstructure analysis Forming mechanics of steel-glass fiber-reinforced composites Residual stress optimization in extruded and drawn materials She actively participates in international conferences and serves on executive committees for biomedical materials symposia.
Ricardo Izquierdo is a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS), where he holds a prominent position as Director of the LACIME (Communications and Microelectronic Integration Laboratory). He earned his B.Ing., M.Sc.A., and Ph.D. in Physics Engineering from Polytechnique Montréal. His research spans multiple interdisciplinary fields, with a focus on printed electronics, nanomaterials, and sustainable energy systems. Department: Department of Electrical Engineering Research Laboratories: LACIME (Director), ÉDÉ Sustainable Energy Laboratory Office: A-2475 Email: ricardo.izquierdo@etsmtl.ca Professor Izquierdo's research interests center on micro- and nanosystems (MEMS/NEMS), nanotechnology, printed electronics, biosensors, organic solar cells, and embedded systems for sports equipment. His work bridges fundamental materials science with practical applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and sustainable energy. He has developed innovative approaches to printed flexible sensors, photonic curing techniques for solar cells, and graphene-based materials for gas sensing applications. An analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a strong focus on printed flexible electronics for sensing applications, advanced photonic curing techniques for perovskite solar cells, and novel materials for energy applications. His work demonstrates a consistent trend toward developing practical, manufacturable solutions that address real-world challenges in healthcare monitoring, environmental sensing, and renewable energy conversion. Professor Izquierdo has received significant recognition through his extensive publication record, with numerous articles in high-impact journals including ACS Omega, Nanomaterials, and IEEE Sensors Journal. His research has practical applications in smart packaging, wearable health monitoring, and sustainable energy systems. He actively supervises a large cohort of graduate students across multiple project types including doctoral theses, master's theses, applied projects, and industry interventions. His students work on cutting-edge topics such as printed temperature and pH sensors, perovskite solar cells, microfluidic biosensors, and graphene-based gas sensors. His research has attracted funding for projects related to printed electronics, sustainable energy systems, and biomedical applications. As Director of LACIME, Professor Izquierdo leads a research group focused on six key areas: functional materials, micro- and nanofabrication processes, integrated circuit design, hybrid components fabrication, photonic and electronic microsystems, and signal processing and communication. The laboratory serves as a hub for innovation in printed electronics and microsystem technologies.
