Donald L. Koch is a full Professor in the School of Chemical Engineering at Cornell University, specializing in fluid dynamics, rheology, and transport processes in complex systems. His research spans particulate flows, colloidal science, and sustainable energy applications. B.S. and B.A., Case Western Reserve University (1981) Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1985) Postdoctoral Study, DAMTP, Cambridge University (1986) Research Interests: Rheology of particle suspensions and porous media Fluid dynamics in micro- and nano-structured materials Statistical mechanics of colloids and aerosols Sustainable energy systems (CO2 sequestration, geothermal energy) Computational modeling of multiphase flows Scientific Awards: Fellow, American Physical Society 1998 Presidential Young Investigator 1988 Frenkiel Award (APS Division of Fluid Dynamics) NATO Postdoctoral Fellowship (1986) NSF Graduate Fellowship (1981) Publications: Over 100 scientific works focusing on particulate and multiphase flows, with recent contributions to non-Newtonian fluid mechanics and bacterial suspension dynamics.
Professor Anna Korre is a leading academic in Environmental Engineering at Imperial College London's Faculty of Engineering. She serves as Associate Provost (Sustainability) and held the role of Co-Director of Energy Futures Lab (2018-2024). Her primary affiliation is with the Department of Earth Science & Engineering, where she leads the Minerals, Energy and Environmental Engineering Research Group. Her research focuses on risk modeling, environmental impact assessments, and engineering solutions for sustainable resource production and decarbonization. Key areas include carbon capture and storage (CCS), geothermal energy, and life cycle analysis of industrial systems. Affiliations: Energy Futures Lab, Institute for Molecular Science & Engineering, Minerals, Energy and Environmental Engineering Group Committee Roles: Chair of Earth Science & Engineering Sustainability Committee, member of University Sustainability Strategy Committee Her work integrates computational modeling, artificial intelligence, and multi-disciplinary collaboration to address global energy challenges. Over 150+ peer-reviewed publications and high-impact projects funded by UKRI, EU, and industry partners demonstrate her leadership in advancing sustainable technologies. She has appeared in media including BBC's The Life Scientific podcast discussing carbon capture innovations. Research highlights include optimizing CO2 storage networks, assessing geothermal reservoir risks, and evaluating lithium production sustainability. She champions industry-academia partnerships to translate research into real-world decarbonization solutions.
Dr. Sumsun Naher is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Engineering at City, University of London , where she has worked since 2013. Previously, she served as Lecturer and Research Development Officer at Dublin City University (2006–2013) and as Scientific Officer at Bangladesh Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (1998–2000). Her academic career includes a Post Graduate Diploma in Academic Practice from City, University of London. PhD , School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, Dublin City University MSc , Materials & Metallurgical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology BSc , Materials & Metallurgical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology Her research focuses on semi-solid processing , laser processing , simulation & modelling of materials technologies , and materials characterisation . Recent work explores cellulose nanofiber-based water filters for antibiotic removal and phase change materials in geothermal energy systems. Key article trends reveal expertise in: Laser Surface Modification of metals and composites Advanced Casting Methodologies and semi-solid metal forming Nanoparticle Reinforcement in metal matrix composites Thermal Modelling for energy systems Sustainable Material Solutions in water treatment and energy Computational Materials Science via finite element analysis Naher has received the DCU Invent Commercialisation Award (2011) and holds fellowships from IMechE , Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining , and Advance Higher Education Authority . She actively reviews for funding bodies and examines PhD theses internationally. As an organiser of the ESAFORM Conference and co-organiser of its Additive Manufacturing symposium since 2017, she contributes to academic leadership. Her professional roles include Board of Directors for the European Association of Materials Forming and participation in EU COST Action projects (Thixoforming, Thixosteel, Nanostructured Materials).
Dr. Thomas Goebel is an Assistant Professor at the Center for Earthquake Research and Information (CERI), University of Memphis. He holds a PhD from the University of Southern California (2013). His research focuses on induced seismicity, fault structure, and earthquake source processes, integrating rock mechanics, seismology, and hydrogeology. Key projects include studies on fault roughness effects, aftershock clustering, and induced seismicity mitigation. He leads the Earthquake Physics Group (EPG), comprising 1 PostDoc and 5 graduate students, and collaborates internationally on volcano monitoring and geothermal energy projects. Dr. Goebel has received the 2023 Tigers Ascending to Excellence Award. Education: PhD in Earth Sciences, University of Southern California, 2013. Research interests emphasize interdisciplinary approaches to understanding stress storage/release in the crust, earthquake size prediction, and fault responses to fluid perturbations. His work bridges laboratory experiments, numerical modeling, and statistical analyses to address fundamental seismological questions. Recent publications highlight contributions to induced seismicity spatial footprints, laboratory-based aftershock dynamics, and volcano-seismic network development. He actively mentors students, with recent accolades including NSF internships and travel awards. Labs/Teams: Earthquake Physics Group (EPG) at CERI, collaborating with institutions in France, El Salvador, and the U.S. on projects like volcanic seismic networks and fault hydrology studies.
Mikael Rinne is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Aalto University's School of Engineering. His research focuses on rock fracture mechanics and its applications in various engineering contexts including nuclear waste repositories, geothermal energy systems, and underground construction. His expertise spans time-dependent rock failure mechanisms, fracture propagation models, and rock mechanics applications in energy storage and disposal systems. His work has direct applications in projects with Posiva Oy (nuclear waste repository), St1 Deepheat (geothermal energy), and mining operations with companies like First Quantum Minerals. Rinne's research integrates advanced numerical modeling with field applications, particularly in Finnish crystalline bedrock conditions. He has contributed significantly to understanding fracture initiation and propagation in rock masses under various stress conditions, with particular emphasis on long-term stability considerations for deep underground structures. His scholarly work demonstrates strong connections between theoretical fracture mechanics and practical engineering applications, with a focus on ensuring safety and reliability in rock engineering projects. His research has evolved from fundamental fracture mechanics studies to application-focused investigations addressing contemporary challenges in energy and waste management. Rinne has supervised doctoral research in rock mechanics and collaborates with researchers specializing in photogrammetry, virtual reality applications, and energy storage systems, creating a multidisciplinary approach to complex rock engineering problems.
W. Travis Horton is an Associate Professor of Civil Engineering at Purdue University, with a courtesy appointment in Mechanical Engineering. He holds a Ph.D. from Purdue University and has over 20 years of academic and industry experience in thermal systems research. His affiliations include the Lyles School of Civil Engineering and the Ray W. Herrick Laboratories at Purdue, focusing on advanced thermal energy conversion systems and sustainable building technologies. Dr. Horton’s research emphasizes integration of HVAC systems with renewable energy, optimization of ground-source heat pumps, and innovative compressor/expander technologies. He leads projects on building energy modeling, combined heat and power systems, and waste heat recovery. His work bridges experimental facilities with computational models for system analysis and optimization. His teaching includes courses on building mechanical systems design and energy audits. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (Michigan) and holds universal refrigerant certification. Active in professional organizations like ASHRAE, his research has produced over 50 peer-reviewed articles since 2001, addressing thermal efficiency, energy systems integration, and sustainable building design.
Marco Barla is a Full Professor of Geotechnical Engineering at the Department of Structural, Building and Geotechnical Engineering (DISEG) at the Polytechnic of Turin, where he also leads a research group focused on energy geostructures, tunneling, slope stability, and numerical modeling. He serves as Editor-in-Chief of the ASCE International Journal of Geomechanics and holds leadership roles in international organizations such as the International Society for Energy Geostructures (President, 2025–2029) and ELGIP (Past President). He is actively involved in multiple EU and national research projects, including GEOREFIT, REGENERATE, and FOLIAGE. Research Interests: Thermoactive geostructures for shallow geothermal energy Tunnel design and construction under challenging conditions Real-time detection of debris flows and snow avalanches using fiber optics Numerical modeling of geotechnical systems Energy retrofitting of existing underground infrastructure His recent publications (2024–2025) demonstrate a strong focus on sustainable urban development through geothermal energy integration, particularly in tunnels and buildings. Key themes include energy geostructures, thermal storage, landslide monitoring, and climate resilience, reflecting his commitment to SDGs 7, 9, 11, and 13. He frequently publishes in top venues such as Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology , Geothermics , and Landslides . Scientific Awards: Telford Premium, Institution of Civil Engineers (2016) IACMAG Excellent Contributions Award (2011) Best Paper, 11th ISRM Congress (2007) Iacmag Award (2005) Top 5 Project Nominee, European Geothermal Innovation Award (2018) Advising and Grants: He supervises multiple PhD students in civil and environmental engineering and has led over 70 research projects, securing more than 2 M€ in funding from national and international sources. His projects span fundamental research (e.g., PRIN, H2020) and applied consulting (e.g., tunnel safety, landslide risk, structural monitoring). He is the scientific responsible for numerous contracts with public and private entities, including Autostrade per l’Italia and regional governments. Labs and Teams: He leads the Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering research group at Politecnico di Torino ( www.rockmech.polito.it ), which conducts laboratory testing, field monitoring, and numerical simulations. The team is active in international collaborations and coordinates the COST Action FOLIAGE, dedicated to scaling up energy geostructure deployment.
Professor Abir Al-Tabbaa is a Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Cambridge, specializing in intelligent, sustainable, and low-carbon infrastructure materials. She leads major research initiatives including the EPSRC Programme Grant 'Resilient Materials for Life (RM4L)', the 'Digital Roads of the Future' initiative, and two EPSRC Centres for Doctoral Training (FIBE CDT and FIBE2 CDT). Her work spans ground improvement, land remediation, self-healing concrete, carbon capture, and biomimetic infrastructure systems. Chartered Engineer (CEng) Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers (FICE) Visiting Professor at Nanjing Tech University Guest Professor at Southeast University Her research focuses on: Development of smart low-carbon materials for geo-environmental engineering, road transport, and construction Biomimetic infrastructure materials with self-healing, self-sensing, and self-diagnosing properties Integration of digital twins, robotics, and data science for resilient road networks Thermal capacity optimization for thermoactive geo-structures (SaFEGround project) Major grants and projects include: TSB SMiRT Project (£1.24M) EPSRC M4L Project (£1.67M) EPSRC RM4L Programme Grant (£4.9M) EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (FIBE CDT: £5M, FIBE2 CDT: £6.7M) Digital Roads of the Future (£15M) SaFEGround Project (EPSRC collaboration) Scientific awards: Reed and Mallik Medal (2003) She supervises numerous PhD and MRes students and collaborates with institutions like Imperial College London, Cardiff University, and Bath University. Her research team includes senior researchers such as Dr. Damian Palin and Dr. Sripriya Rengaraju.
Efstathios (Stathis) Michaelides is the W.A. "Tex" Moncrief, Jr. Founding Chair of Engineering at Texas Christian University (TCU). He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Engineering Science from Brown University (1980, 1979) and a B.A. in Engineering Science and Economics from Oxford University (1977). His research focuses on advanced energy systems, multiphase flow, and renewable energy transitions. Ph.D. , Engineering Science, Brown University, 1980 M.S. , Engineering Science, Brown University, 1979 B.A. , Engineering Science and Economics, Oxford University, England, 1977 Michaelides' work spans energy conversion , geothermal systems , nanofluidics , and particle-fluid dynamics . His recent publications analyze energy storage requirements for renewable transitions, drag force correlations in complex flows, and thermodynamic implications of carbon sequestration. His research trends include decarbonization strategies , nanoparticle-enhanced phase transitions , and smart microfluidic systems . He has also contributed to foundational texts like Particles, Bubbles and Drops (2006) and the Multiphase Flow Handbook (2017).
Hamidreza Karami is an Associate Professor in the School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering at the University of Oklahoma. His research focuses on multiphase flow, production engineering, artificial lift, and flow assurance, with applications in unconventional wells, geothermal systems, and hydrogen transportation. BSc, Petroleum Engineering, Sharif University of Technology (2009) MSc, Petroleum Engineering, The University of Tulsa (2011) PhD, Petroleum Engineering, The University of Tulsa (2015) Karami's work combines experimental and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with machine learning to address challenges in gas lift, downhole separators, well cleanout, and leak detection. Recent publications emphasize data-driven modeling of multiphase flow systems and optimization of artificial lift methods. His lab at the University of Oklahoma investigates advanced technologies for flow assurance, including paraffin and asphaltene deposition, foam lifting, and surfactant applications. Collaborative projects involve Tulsa University Fluid Flow Projects (TUFFP) and industry stakeholders.
Benoît Valley is a Full Professor at the University of Neuchâtel's Faculty of Science and Director of the Centre for Hydrogeology and Geothermics (CHYN). He specializes in geomechanics, geothermics, and hydrogeology, focusing on stress and fracture characterization in rock masses. His work addresses geothermal energy, CO2 storage, and nuclear waste sequestration. Education: PhD from ETH Zurich (2007), followed by research roles at MIRARCO Canada and ETH Zurich. Appointed to University of Neuchâtel in 2014 as Assistant Professor, promoted to Full Professor in 2020. Research interests include stress field dynamics, hydraulic stimulation, and fracture network analysis. Awards include the Bernard Kübler and Jean Landry Prize (2002). Teaching includes courses on geosciences, hydrogeology, and geothermal energy at undergraduate and graduate levels. Key initiatives: Leadership in CHYN, involvement in Swiss geoscience platforms, and contributions to projects like SPINE (EU-funded) and TIBEX (SFOE-funded). Labs: Established the Geothermics and Geomechanics Laboratory at CHYN, focusing on deep geothermal systems and reservoir engineering.
Prof. Serge A. Shapiro is a Full Professor of Geophysics at Freie Universität Berlin since 1999 and Director of the PHASE consortium since 2004. He holds a Diploma in Applied Geophysics from Lomonosov Moscow State University (1982), a PhD from the Moscow Research Institute of Geosystems (1987), and a Habilitation from Karlsruhe University (1995). His research focuses on seismogenic processes, induced seismicity, rock physics, and subduction zone dynamics, with applications to geothermal energy, CO2 storage, and hydraulic fracturing. Education: Diploma in Applied Geophysics, Lomonosov Moscow State University (1982) PhD in Geophysics, Moscow Research Institute of Geosystems (1987) Habilitation, Karlsruhe University (1995) Research Interests: Induced seismicity from fluid operations CO2 storage and hydraulic fracturing risks Seismic hazard assessment Rock physics under stress Key Contributions: Developed the Seismogenic Index Model for induced earthquakes Pioneered DAS-based seismic monitoring techniques Advanced understanding of fault stability and pressure diffusion effects Awards: Virgil Kauffman Gold Medal (2013) for work in microseismic monitoring and rock physics Grants & Projects: PHASE consortium leader (2004–present) Utah FORGE EGS project advisor Labs/Teams: Seismology Group, Freie Universität Berlin PHASE university consortium
Dr. Arman Khoshghalb is a Senior Lecturer in Geotechnical Engineering at the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, UNSW Sydney, where he has been a faculty member since 2012. His academic credentials include a PhD in Geotechnical Engineering from UNSW (2012), an MSc from Sharif University of Technology (2005), and a BSc in Civil Engineering from the same institution (2003). His research focuses on numerical modeling of multi-phase porous media , with emphasis on unsaturated soils, large deformation analysis, and dynamic soil behavior. Key areas include meshfree computational methods, soil-structure interaction, bio-cementation, and thermo-hydro-mechanical processes in geotechnical systems. His work bridges theoretical advancements with practical applications in slope stability, foundation engineering, and sustainable ground improvement. Dr. Khoshghalb's publications predominantly explore geomechanical modeling, experimental soil mechanics, and computational techniques. Recent trends highlight innovations in bio-cemented soils, thermal properties of unsaturated soils, and adaptive numerical methods for complex geotechnical simulations. Awards & Honors: IACMAG Excellent Paper Award (2017) UNSW Research Excellence Award (2012) Advising & Grants: He has supervised 7+ PhD students on topics ranging from weak rock mechanics to computational geomechanics. Funded projects include: ARC Discovery Project (2019–2021): "Non-isothermal dynamic strain localisation in unsaturated porous media" ($298,257) ARC Linkage Infrastructure Grant (2015): "Earthquake shaking table for soil-structure interactions" ($320,000) ARC Linkage Project (2014–2017): "Constitutive modelling of weak rocks" ($314,280) He leads research within UNSW's geotechnical engineering group, collaborating on large-scale experimental testing and computational frameworks for infrastructure resilience.
William Harbert is a Professor in the Department of Geology and Environmental Science at the University of Pittsburgh, where he leads research in geophysics and subsurface characterization. His work bridges fundamental geophysical principles with practical applications in energy and environmental systems. Education: MS in Exploration Geophysics from Stanford University PhD in Geophysics from Stanford University Research focuses on seismic analysis across multiple scales, from micro-CT to surface seismic. His group specializes in advanced processing of microseismic, reflection seismic, and VSP data to image subsurface structures and understand pore-scale dynamics. Current work integrates deep learning for geophysical object detection and classification, with emphasis on organic shale systems and CO 2 storage monitoring. Key areas include rock physics, microseismicity analysis, and environmental geophysics for water quality assessment. Publication trends show strong emphasis on energy-related geophysics, particularly hydraulic fracturing monitoring, CO 2 sequestration verification, and unconventional reservoir characterization. Recent work increasingly incorporates machine learning techniques and addresses environmental monitoring challenges in subsurface operations. Scientific recognition: DOE ORISE Research Associate Resident Institute Fellow of the NETL-Institute for Advanced Energy Solution Professional engagements include membership on the Altarock Review Board for DOE-funded geothermal projects and prior service on the Scientific Advisory Board for the In Salah CO 2 Injection Project. His research involves extensive collaboration with national laboratories and industry partners on subsurface monitoring technologies. His laboratory group develops advanced geophysical processing techniques for subsurface imaging across multiple scales, with current projects focusing on microseismic monitoring of shale reservoirs and CO 2 storage sites.
Hiroshi Onoda is a Professor at the Faculty of Science and Engineering and Graduate School of Environment and Energy Engineering , Waseda University. His work focuses on environmentally friendly design , LCA , resource recycling , renewable energy systems , and smart communities . He holds a Doctor of Engineering from Waseda University and has held various leadership roles, including Dean of the Graduate School of Environment and Energy since 2022. Education : PhD in Mechanical Engineering (Waseda University, 2006) Professional Leadership : Environment Energy Advisor (Saitama Prefecture, 2010–2015), Director of Waseda Environmental Institute Co., Ltd. (2011–2017) Research Themes : Onoda’s research spans smart waste management , EV integration , CO2 reduction , and renewable energy deployment . He emphasizes AI and IoT applications in waste systems, decentralized energy solutions for developing nations, and decarbonization strategies for urban and industrial contexts. Publication Trends : His recent work addresses AI-driven recycling optimization , community-level GHG inventories , and DAC-based fertilizer systems , reflecting his commitment to circular economy and low-carbon mobility . Key sub-fields include robotic waste sorting , decentralized energy planning , and plastic recycling economics . Scientific Awards : Environment Minister’s Commendation (2024) Best Paper Award, ICET4SD (2021) JSME Environment Division Award (2014) JSME Research Encouragement Award (2018) Grants and Projects : Onoda has led nationwide evaluations of low-carbon industrial zones , hydrogen utilization , and plastic recycling policies . He contributes to Japan’s decarbonization roadmap through roles in NEDO and Ministry of the Environment committees. Labs and Initiatives : He founded the Waseda Environmental Research Institute, Inc. (2003) and drives innovation through the BRIDGE LIFE Platform for smart communities in Japan.
