Pavleta Knutsson is an Associate Professor at the Department of Environmental and Inorganic Chemistry, Chalmers University of Technology. Her research focuses on developing active bed materials and oxygen carriers to optimize combustion and gasification processes in industrial systems. She explores the use of synthesized materials, natural minerals, and industrial byproducts to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Her work emphasizes ash-bed interactions, catalytic material activation, and waste valorization, particularly in fluidized bed reactors. Key applications include biomass utilization, chemical-looping combustion, and recycling of materials from lithium-ion batteries and end-of-life tires. She has contributed to projects like the GoBiGas demonstration plant and collaborates on material characterization and reactor design for sustainable energy systems. Recent studies highlight advancements in oxygen carrier performance, corrosion resistance in superheater materials, and activation pathways for recovered carbon black. Her publications span over two decades, addressing challenges in fluidized bed dynamics, sulfur capture, and ash management in industrial boilers. Dr. Knutsson’s research bridges fundamental material science with applied energy technologies, aiming to advance renewable energy systems and circular economy principles through innovative material utilization.
Dr. Lingli Zhou is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam , affiliated with the Faculty of Science . She holds an ancillary position as a Medewerker at University College Dublin since 2023. Her research bridges fundamental geoscience with sustainable resource management, focusing on critical raw materials (CRMs), base metal deposits (Cu, Co, Pb, Zn), and rare earth elements (REE). Her work emphasizes unconventional resource types like mine waste and deep-sea minerals, leveraging mineralogical and geochemical tools to assess their economic viability. Education : PhD in Geochemistry, Mineralogy, and Sedimentology from Aarhus University (2015) PhD in Geochemistry, Petrology, and Ore Geology from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (2014) Research Interests include: Economic Geology and mineral deposit formation Hydrothermal and metasomatic processes in REE deposits Revalorization of mine waste and circular economy strategies Enrichment mechanisms of critical metals (Ge, Ga, In) in Zn-Pb deposits Grants & Funding : National Key Research and Development Program of China (2021YFC2900300) National Natural Science Foundation of China (42073043, U23A2027) CAS "Light of West China" and Hundred Talents Programs Editorial Role : Associate Editor of Journal of Geochemical Exploration (2025-2027).
Jonathan Toma is a Brian J. Skinner Postdoctoral Fellow at Yale University, specializing in Re-Os geochronology and the application of novel isotopic techniques to address questions in tectonics and ore genesis. His research focuses on understanding the timing and mechanisms of graphite formation, supercontinent assembly, and metallogenic processes in ancient continental settings. His work integrates field-based studies with advanced analytical methods, particularly in Re-Os dating of graphite and pyrite systems. Key research themes include: Carbon cycling during Proterozoic supercontinent assembly Graphite as a geochronological and geochemical tool Linkages between tectonic events and ore deposit formation Recent studies have examined graphite-bearing systems in Greenland, China, and Finland, with particular attention to their roles in supercontinent evolution and metallogenesis. Toma's research also explores subduction zone processes and the application of Re-Os isotopes to mantle wedge dynamics. Publications from 2018–2025 consistently demonstrate methodological innovation in geochronology while addressing fundamental questions in Earth's history. His work contributes significantly to understanding Precambrian continental evolution and critical mineral systems.
Mengnan Wang is a Research Fellow in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Stanford University. Their work focuses on high-pressure chemistry and materials science under extreme conditions, with a particular emphasis on synthesizing novel compounds and exploring their structural, optical, and thermodynamic properties. Mengnan investigates topics such as methane-hydrogen systems, xenon-argon complexes, and hydrogen interactions with metals (e.g., copper, lithium, cobalt) under elevated pressures and temperatures. Research interests include planetary sciences, geochemistry, and energy materials. Mengnan’s studies often address geological and planetary processes, such as abiogenic methane formation and superionicity in hydrogen chloride. Their work bridges fundamental chemistry with applied material discovery, aiming to uncover mechanisms governing compound stability and reactivity under high-pressure environments. No academic awards or grants are explicitly mentioned in the provided texts. Mengnan has no listed advisees or students, indicating a focus on independent research activities. While the text does not specify lab affiliations or teams, their role within the Earth and Planetary Sciences department suggests involvement in high-pressure experimentation and computational modeling facilities at Stanford.
Valerie Pobjoy is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at ArtCenter College of Design's Department of Illustration, based in Los Angeles, CA. She teaches courses such as Head & Hands, Composition & Drawing, and Composition & Painting. Pobjoy holds a BFA in Illustration with Honors from ArtCenter (2014). Her research and creative practice focuses on figurative art, employing oil painting, graphite, and mixed media. Notable exhibitions include solo shows at Flower Pepper Gallery (Wanderlust, 2017) and group shows at venues like Giant Robot Gallery and La Luz de Jesus. Key works include Belladonna , Coyote , and series exploring portraiture and nature themes. No scientific awards or grants are explicitly mentioned in the provided texts. Her artistic portfolio spans exhibitions since 2014, emphasizing technical mastery in life drawing and expressive composition.
Tom Lindfors is an Associate Professor at Åbo Akademi University's Faculty of Science and Engineering, affiliated with the Laboratory of Molecular Science and Engineering Solutions for Health Technologies for a Sustainable Future. His research focuses on solid-state ion-selective electrodes, graphene-based composites, barrier properties of carbon materials, and electrically conducting polymers. He has held roles such as Docent (Adjunct Professor) and contributes to interdisciplinary projects involving biomaterials and sustainable technologies. Research Interests: Lindfors explores advanced materials for sensors and energy applications. His work includes developing biocompatible anodes using graphene and cellulose nanocrystals, optimizing low-cost graphene paper electrodes, and studying conducting polymer composites for tissue engineering. His studies often bridge electrochemistry, nanotechnology, and materials science to address challenges in sustainable and biomedical fields. Scientific Contributions: With over 92 publications, Lindfors has advanced methodologies in graphene exfoliation, ion-selective electrode design, and material characterization. His 2024 work on stimuli-responsive composites highlights innovations in biomaterials. He has received the 2001 Innovation Prize from the Finnish Chemical Industry for pioneering conducting polymer applications in sensors. Academic Engagement: Lindfors actively supervises master’s students and collaborates internationally. Notable activities include hosting academic visitors like Adam Ślesiński and presenting at conferences on low-cost ion-selective electrodes. His research network spans multiple countries, reflecting a global impact in materials science.
Dr. Zhenyu Wang is a Researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials in Düsseldorf, Germany, specializing in computational materials design with a focus on electrochemistry and corrosion science. His research emphasizes ab-initio modeling of electrochemical solid/liquid interfaces, energy storage systems, and novel materials for photovoltaics and thermoelectrics. Education: B.Sc. in Physics, Xi'an Jiaotong University (2009-2013) Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University (2013-2020) Visiting Ph.D. in Chemistry, University College London, UK (2016-2018) Research Interests: His work spans several key areas including: Ab-initio modeling of electrochemical interfaces Energy storage mechanisms in metal-air and metal-ion batteries Two-dimensional hybrid perovskites for photovoltaic applications High-performance thermoelectric materials and transparent conducting oxides Defect chemistry analysis in energy conversion materials Professional Background: Since 2021: Postdoctoral Researcher at Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung and Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials Publications: His recent work focuses on advancing computational methods for modeling electrochemical systems, exploring novel materials for energy storage and conversion applications, and understanding interface phenomena through first-principles calculations and molecular dynamics simulations. Awards & Grants: No specific awards or grants mentioned in the provided information. Labs & Collaborations: Affiliated with the Department of Computational Materials Design, contributing to interdisciplinary research at the Max Planck Institute.
Roberto Biagi is an Associate Professor at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, affiliated with the Department of Physical, Computer and Mathematical Sciences (ex-Physics branch). His research focuses on advanced materials science, including graphene-based systems, nanotechnology, catalysis, and energy materials such as those used in fuel cells and bipolar plates. He leads studies on electronic properties of graphene, catalyst stability, and composite materials for electrochemical applications. Teaching responsibilities include 'Physics Laboratory III' for undergraduate physics students and 'Advanced Spectroscopic and Imaging Methods' for master’s students specializing in experimental nanophysics and quantum technologies or biophysics and applied physics. His work integrates experimental techniques like X-ray absorption spectroscopy and electron energy-loss spectroscopy with theoretical modeling to explore material behavior at the nanoscale. Research themes span chiral materials for catalytic efficiency, hydrogenated graphene modifications, and graphite-epoxy composites for fuel cell components. His contributions address challenges in energy storage, material durability, and surface interactions. Biagi collaborates extensively, evidenced by diverse co-authorships in peer-reviewed journals.
Yu Liu is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD), where he leads the experimental Liu Lab. He joined the UMD faculty in Spring 2024 and established a state-of-the-art quantum measurement lab in the new chemistry building. His research focuses on advancing quantum science techniques to study chemistry at ultracold temperatures, leveraging laser cooling, optical trapping, and coherent control to create molecules in well-defined quantum states. These ultracold molecules enable high-resolution spectroscopic and reaction studies, with applications in quantum computation, material science, and fundamental chemical dynamics. Research Interests: The Liu lab explores ultracold reaction dynamics, particularly using lithium isotopes (e.g., 6Li and 7Li) to study reaction pathways, entanglement effects, and cluster assembly. They also develop hybrid ion-neutral traps to expand the range of chemically diverse species accessible at ultralow temperatures. These efforts aim to bridge gaps between theoretical predictions and experimental observations in quantum-controlled chemistry. Lab Activities: The lab actively recruits PhD students and postdocs with backgrounds in atomic/molecular optics (AMO) physics, physical chemistry, or related fields. Students are encouraged to apply to UMD’s Chemical Physics, Chemistry, or Physics graduate programs. The lab emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge experimental techniques, including laser systems, cryogenics, and quantum control methodologies. Awards and Grants: No scientific awards were explicitly mentioned in the provided text. Lab Infrastructure: The lab is equipped with advanced facilities for quantum measurement, including laser systems, vacuum chambers, and state-of-the-art detection instruments. Ongoing projects include studying isotope exchange reactions in ultracold lithium systems and developing hybrid traps for precision chemistry experiments.
Evan Kitson is an Adjunct Instructor and part-time faculty member in the Fine Art Department at the Pennsylvania College of Art & Design (PCA&D), where he also serves as Model Coordinator. A 2010 PCA&D alumnus with a BFA in Illustration, he holds an MFA from the New York Academy of Art and has taught at prestigious institutions including the Art Students League of New York, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Studio Incamminati. He splits his time between Lancaster, PA, and New York, NY, maintaining an active studio practice centered on the human form, anatomical studies, and the symbolic representation of life and death. BFA, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design MFA, New York Academy of Art Studio apprenticeship with Odd Nerdrum Kitson’s research and teaching focus on figurative representation, life modeling as performative practice, and the integration of anatomical precision in artistic training. He emphasizes observational drawing from live models over photographic references, advocating for the dynamic, collaborative energy that enhances students’ representational skills and creative adaptability. His pedagogy is deeply aligned with diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, ensuring that life models reflect a broad spectrum of body types, skin tones, and identities to better prepare students for contemporary artistic practice. While no formal publications or scientific articles are listed, Kitson’s artistic output functions as scholarly inquiry through exhibitions and studio-based research. His work explores themes of mortality, identity, and transformation, often using silverpoint, graphite, and oil media. These recurring motifs across exhibitions suggest a sustained investigation into the intersection of art, anatomy, and existential reflection. He has received recognition through numerous solo and group exhibitions at venues such as the Demuth Museum, Abend Gallery, Booth Gallery, and the North Museum. Notable exhibitions include A Matter of Light and Death , Emergence: Exploring the Art of Transformation , and faculty shows at the New York Academy of Art. He is currently an Artist in Residence at the North Museum in Lancaster, PA. Kitson advises students informally through studio instruction and mentoring, both in-person and online via The Open Sketchbook. He has contributed to curriculum development at PCA&D, particularly in refining life model training and interview processes to support inclusive and effective learning environments. He also co-curated exhibitions, demonstrating leadership in academic and artistic programming. He is actively involved in the life model program at PCA&D, overseeing recruitment, training, and scheduling of approximately 20 active models. This role supports foundational and advanced coursework across disciplines, reinforcing PCA&D’s commitment to experiential learning and representational diversity. Kitson also teaches courses such as Expressive Figure Illustration and participates in professional development through lectures at institutions like Parsons School of Design and Millersville University.
Ekaterina Kholkina is a researcher in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Åbo Akademi University specializing in sustainable catalytic processes. Her work focuses on developing novel catalysts for green chemical transformations using waste-derived materials and energy-efficient methods. Her primary research interests include heterogeneous catalysis with emphasis on graphitic carbon nitride materials (g-CN), slag-based catalysts, and iridium-catalyzed systems. Key investigation areas encompass desulfurization, carboxymethylation of cinnamyl compounds using dimethyl carbonate, Prins cyclization of terpenes, and ultrasound-assisted catalyst synthesis. She explores sustainable pathways for fine chemical production through waste valorization and process intensification techniques. Analysis of her publication trends reveals consistent focus on alternative catalyst supports derived from industrial byproducts (slag) and advanced materials (g-CN). Her recent work demonstrates increasing sophistication in reaction selectivity control, particularly in hydrogenation and cyclization reactions, while maintaining environmental sustainability through solvent-free or green solvent systems. Dr. Kholkina maintains extensive collaboration within Åbo Akademi's catalysis research group under Professor Dmitry Murzin. Her work aligns with the university's "Technologies for a Sustainable Future" initiative, targeting industrially applicable catalytic processes with reduced environmental impact. Current research directions indicate progression toward scalable catalyst systems for biomass conversion and renewable feedstock utilization.
Giuseppe Rosace is a Full Professor of General and Inorganic Chemistry at the Department of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Bergamo. He serves as the Rector's Delegate for Technology Transfer, Spin-offs, and Relations with the U4I Foundation since 2022, and coordinates the "Textile Chemistry, Composites, and Interface Science" Laboratory at the Engineering Campus. As a founding member of "ArgoChem Srl," a university-authorized spin-off, and Secretary General of the International Federation of Associations of Textile Chemists and Colorists (IFATCC) since 2013, Professor Rosace maintains strong industry and international connections. Professor Rosace's research focuses on colloidal chemistry and the synthesis and characterization of organic-inorganic hybrid materials for polymer surface functionalization. His work develops coatings with barrier or stimuli-responsive properties that enhance material performance or enable wearable chemical sensors. His expertise spans sol-gel technology, textile chemistry, smart materials, and nanocomposites, with applications in medical textiles, sustainable manufacturing, and advanced sensing systems. His laboratory actively explores the integration of 2D materials like tungsten diselenide into textile substrates for environmental monitoring. Analysis of Professor Rosace's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on functional textile coatings, particularly using sol-gel chemistry and nanomaterials. His work bridges fundamental chemistry with practical applications in smart textiles, wearable sensors, and sustainable manufacturing. Notable research directions include eco-friendly water-repellent finishes, antibacterial treatments, flame retardancy, and the integration of advanced materials like carbon nanotubes and 2D materials into textile structures for sensing applications. University of Bergamo Research Award (2011) University of Bergamo Research Award (2015) Professor Rosace serves on the PhD Committee in Engineering and Applied Sciences, teaching "Environmentally friendly treatments for surface functionalization." He has co-authored approximately 120 peer-reviewed articles, four book chapters, and holds four patents. His h-index is 30 (Scopus, December 2023). His research has attracted significant funding for developing innovative textile functionalization methods and sustainable manufacturing processes. The "Textile Chemistry, Composites, and Interface Science" Laboratory, which Professor Rosace coordinates, focuses on developing advanced functional coatings for textiles using sol-gel technology, nanomaterials, and hybrid organic-inorganic systems. The lab maintains collaborations with both academic institutions through INSTM and CSGI consortia and industry partners through the ArgoChem Srl spin-off, facilitating technology transfer from fundamental research to commercial applications.
Guillaume Adjutor Provost is a Professor of Sculpture in the Department of Visual Arts within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the Université de Moncton in New Brunswick. An interdisciplinary artist, researcher, and educator, Provost experiments with exhibition forms, collections, text, and curation. His artistic practice centers around reactivating forms and narratives often relegated to the periphery of dominant discourses, with particular focus on class consciousness, counterculture, and vernacular imagery. Provost's research interests explore the logic of visibility and concealment in exhibitions, questioning how cultural objects are simultaneously selected, ordered, prioritized, and revealed. His work investigates the relationship between material and imaginary archives, and how popular forms circulate or resist within art institutions. His projects frequently take the form of exhibitions where collaboration with other creators and thinkers plays a key role, creating immersive spaces that challenge viewers to reconsider historical narratives and contemporary social structures. Provost's recent artistic output demonstrates a consistent engagement with themes of economic systems, social class, and historical representation. His work spans multiple media including sculpture, installation, drawing, video, and publication, with exhibitions presented internationally across Canada, France, Spain, Austria, Lithuania, Germany, and Switzerland. His 2024 exhibition 'Soif d'illusion / Illusion of the Self' at the Keillor House Museum explored domestic space as a site for the projection of fabricated identities, while his 2022 'Table of Contents' series examined class consciousness through anthropomorphic rat imagery. Recipient of grants from Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec Recipient of grants from Canada Council for the Arts Recipient of Claudine and Stephen Bronfman Grant Finalist for Pierre Ayot Prize (2016, 2019) Finalist for Sobey Award (2021) Provost is represented by Galerie Hugues Charbonneau in Montreal and has presented more than twenty solo exhibitions and an equal number of group exhibitions internationally. His teaching practice at the Université de Moncton informs and is informed by his active artistic research, creating a dynamic relationship between his pedagogical and creative work.
