Dr. Alev Cumbul is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Histology & Embryology at Yeditepe University Faculty of Medicine, where she has been since 2011. Her research focuses on tissue engineering, wound healing mechanisms, and molecular pathways in degenerative diseases. PhD in Histology & Embryology (Eskişehir Osmangazi University, 2003-2008) BSc in Veterinary Medicine (Ankara University, 1995-2001) Her scientific work spans histopathology , apoptosis , neuroprotection , and biomaterials development . Recent publications examine pomegranate seed oil's protective effects against colitis-related organ damage and nanoparticle-based wound healing formulations. She supervises graduate students in projects exploring polycystic ovary syndrome and neurodegenerative models . As a principal investigator in multiple funded projects (e.g., TÜBİTAK grants), she has developed novel scaffolds for bone regeneration and evaluated antioxidant therapies. Her 15 most recent articles reveal consistent focus on VEGF signaling , oxidative stress , and stem cell applications across cardiovascular , neurological , and gastrointestinal models. 2024: Poster Mansiyon Award (Yeditepe University) 2022: Best Poster Award (Yeditepe University)
Zoran Stanimirović is a full professor in the Department of Biology at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade. He has maintained an active research and teaching career focusing on molecular biology, veterinary genetics, and honey bee health. His academic contributions span multiple disciplines within veterinary sciences. Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Belgrade Specializes in molecular diagnostics and animal genetics Professor Stanimirović's research interests primarily center around honey bee biology, veterinary genetics, and molecular diagnostics. His work explores the genetic diversity of various animal species, molecular markers for species identification, and health challenges affecting honey bees including Nosema infections and Varroa destructor infestations. He has made significant contributions to understanding the molecular ecology of bees, genetic characterization of endangered animal breeds, and the application of molecular techniques in veterinary diagnostics. His publication record reveals a strong focus on honey bee health, with numerous studies examining pathogens like Nosema ceranae, Varroa destructor, and viral infections. He has also published extensively on genetic diversity assessment of various animal species including donkeys, dogs, and cattle. His research often combines molecular techniques with practical veterinary applications, particularly in the areas of genetic diagnostics, conservation genetics, and animal health assessment. Professor Stanimirović has supervised numerous research projects and mentored multiple graduate students who appear as co-authors on his publications. His collaborative work spans multiple institutions and countries, demonstrating his integration into the international veterinary research community.
Prof. dr Radislava Teodorović is a full-time faculty member at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, serving as a Professor in the Department of Zoohygiene. Her research focuses on animal hygiene, environmental protection, preventive veterinary medicine, bioclimatology, and biometeorology. Recent publications highlight her work in sustainable feed alternatives (e.g., earthworm meal for broilers), disinfection protocols in food production facilities, and genotoxic effects of chemicals on animal and human cells. She has contributed to understanding mosquito control strategies and improving animal welfare standards. Her studies span topics including meat quality assessment biosecurity in slaughterhouses cytogenetic impacts of pharmaceuticals insect-based feed formulations disinfectant efficacy against pathogens canine welfare and relinquishment trends
Kamuran Kara Koç is an Assistant Professor at Istanbul University's Faculty of Science, Department of Physics, since 2018. He specializes in Condensed Matter Physics , with a focus on ZnO thin films and GaAsBi alloys . His research explores Optical and structural properties Thermal and chemical treatments Doping effects in semiconductors Optoelectronic device fabrication . His academic background includes a Doctorate (2009–2013) and Postgraduate (2005–2008) in Physics from Çukurova University, where he studied solid-state physics . He has supervised two postgraduate theses and contributed to over 15 funded projects under Higher Education Institutions' BAP programs. Research trends in his recent work include Thermal annealing effects on semiconductor films Aluminum/nitrogen codoping in ZnO Biexcitonic interactions in GaAsBi Advanced characterization techniques (XRD, XPS, Raman) . Scientific recognition includes BAP Award (June 2015) BAP Award (May 2014) . He has collaborated on projects involving Nano and Optoelectronics Research Laboratory and frequently presents at international conferences like the International Conference on Condensed Matter and Materials Science (Adana, 2017) and International Workshop on Bismuth-Containing Semiconductors (Magdeburg, 2017).
Peter S. LaViolette is the Robert C. Olson, MD, Professor of Radiology at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where he serves as Director of the Quantitative Imaging Laboratory and is part of the Section of Imaging Research within the Division of Imaging Sciences. His work bridges clinical radiology with advanced imaging research, focusing on developing techniques that directly impact patient care and treatment outcomes. Dr. LaViolette's educational background includes: Postdoctoral Fellowship, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI (2011-2012) PhD in Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI (2011) MA/MS in Physics, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA (2005) BS in Physics, St. Norbert College, De Pere, WI (2003) Dr. LaViolette's research focuses on creating and validating imaging techniques that improve patient outcomes and treatment efficacy, with emphasis on neurological diseases such as brain cancer and epilepsy. His laboratory develops neuro-imaging techniques to determine whether brain tumors respond to therapy or are progressing, using diffusion and perfusion MRI to characterize tumor cellularity and vascularity. His team studies histological features responsible for imaging characteristics measured in vivo, providing validation for imaging biomarkers. His epilepsy research focuses on developing image processing techniques for surgical planning and brain function mapping. Analysis of Dr. LaViolette's publications reveals a strong focus on radio-pathomic mapping that correlates medical imaging with histopathological findings. His work spans brain tumor imaging (particularly glioma and glioblastoma), prostate cancer imaging, and advanced MRI techniques. A significant portion involves validating imaging biomarkers against histology, often using autopsy tissue. His research demonstrates how quantitative imaging can identify tumor invasion beyond traditional MRI-defined margins, predict treatment response, and estimate cellular growth kinetics that correlate with survival. Dr. LaViolette actively collaborates with clinicians and researchers across multiple institutions, as evidenced by his numerous multi-site studies. His leadership in the Quantitative Imaging Laboratory fosters interdisciplinary research bridging radiology, oncology, neurology, and computational science. His extensive publication record suggests significant research funding supporting his work in advanced imaging techniques. Under Dr. LaViolette's direction, the Quantitative Imaging Laboratory develops and validates imaging techniques that directly impact clinical decision-making. The lab's work on radio-pathomic maps represents a significant advancement in correlating non-invasive imaging with histopathological findings, potentially transforming how clinicians assess tumor characteristics and treatment response without requiring repeated invasive biopsies.
Dr. Cheryl Quenneville is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at McMaster University and an Associate Member of the School of Biomedical Engineering. She specializes in biomechanics and biomedical engineering with a focus on injury tolerance criteria, orthopaedic device design, and computational modeling. Education: B.A.Sc. (Queen's University, 2003), M.Sc. (Western University, 2005), Ph.D. (Western University, 2009) Current Role: Associate Chair, Undergraduate, Mechanical Engineering Her research program integrates experimental testing and finite element modeling to advance understanding of bone fracture mechanics, develop injury risk functions, and validate synthetic surrogates for biomechanical research. Recent work has addressed hockey neck guard safety, forearm injury limits, and hip fracture risk prediction using DXA imaging. Key trends in her publications include injury biomechanics, computational modeling, and medical imaging applications. She has received the Petro-Canada-McMaster Young Innovator Award and collaborates with industry partners like Niko Apparel Systems. Her lab emphasizes trainee development and translation of findings to clinical and industrial partners. Scientific Awards: Petro-Canada-McMaster Young Innovator Award Dr. Quenneville teaches Current Topics in Orthopaedic Biomechanics (MECHENG 717/BIOMED 717) and actively accepts graduate students. The McMaster Injury Biomechanics Lab, which she leads, develops comprehensive injury limits for understudied events and translates findings through partnerships in healthcare and safety industries.
Dr. Michelle McDonald is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Medical Sciences within the Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney. Her research program focuses on skeletal biology with particular emphasis on bone metastasis, osteoclast biology, and multiple myeloma bone disease. Dr. McDonald's research interests span bone biology, osteoporosis, multiple myeloma, and bone metastasis. Her work has significantly advanced our understanding of osteoclast biology, particularly regarding osteoclast recycling through osteomorphs and the rebound phenomenon following denosumab discontinuation. She has pioneered research on bone imaging techniques, developing minimally invasive approaches to visualize cellular dynamics in intact long bone and single-cell resolution imaging of tumor cells in bone. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on translational bone research with significant contributions to understanding the mechanisms of bone metastasis, particularly in breast cancer and multiple myeloma. Her work on osteomorphs has opened new avenues for therapeutic intervention in bone diseases. Her 2024 publications demonstrate continued innovation in bone imaging technologies and computational approaches to understanding bone diseases. Dr. McDonald has secured significant research funding including NIH grants for bone-targeted therapies to improve bone health and prevent relapse in multiple myeloma, as well as targeted funding from Tour de Cure Ltd for research on the skeleton as a reservoir for metastatic tumor cells in breast cancer. Her research program involves extensive collaboration with leading bone researchers internationally and utilizes advanced imaging technologies to investigate cellular dynamics in bone. She is actively contributing to the development of new therapeutic approaches for bone diseases and metastatic cancers that affect bone.
Jon Power is a Lecturer at the University of Chester within the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Society . He transitioned to skeletal biology in 1996 after completing his PhD in helminth parasitology at the University of Portsmouth (collaborating with the National Institute for Medical Research, Mill Hill, London). His academic journey includes technical and postdoctoral positions at the University of Cambridge's Bone Research Group and Orthopaedic Research Unit before becoming a full-time lecturer in 2012. Education: BSc Biological Sciences, University of Salford PhD Nematode Parasitology, University of Portsmouth PG Cert Higher Education, University of Chester His research focuses on skeletal diseases , particularly osteoporosis and osteocyte biology . Key areas of investigation include cortical bone microstructure in hip fractures, bone remodeling dynamics, and cartilage repair mechanisms. His work employs advanced techniques like Fourier transform infrared imaging and ovine models for joint repair studies. Teaching responsibilities span histology , microscopy , histopathology , and parasitology . Collaborative research with institutions like the University of Cambridge and clinical partners has produced significant publications in journals including Bone , Journal of Bone and Mineral Research , and Osteoporosis International .
Michael D. D'Emic is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Adelphi University, within the College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on dinosaur evolution, bone histology, tooth development, and paleoecology. He teaches courses in histology, vertebrate evolution, human anatomy, and paleobiology, and mentors both undergraduate and graduate researchers. PhD, University of Michigan (2011) MS, University of Michigan (2010) BA with Distinction, Boston University (2006) Dr. D'Emic's research lies at the intersection of paleontology, anatomy, and evolutionary biology. He investigates how dinosaurs evolved extreme body sizes, how their bones and teeth grew, and how these traits relate to ecological and environmental changes. His work integrates histological techniques with phylogenetic and stratigraphic data to reconstruct growth patterns and life histories of extinct vertebrates. His recent publications span high-impact journals such as Science , Current Biology , and Science Advances , focusing on sauropod gigantism, theropod miniaturization, dental evolution, and Cretaceous ecosystems. These works reflect a strong trend toward quantitative, tissue-level analysis of dinosaur biology and its evolutionary implications. Dr. D'Emic has secured multiple research grants from the National Conservation Lands Scientific Support Program, the Eppley Foundation, the Toomey Foundation, the American Philosophical Society, and Adelphi University. These fund fieldwork, fossil excavation, and studies on climate impacts on growth and the evolution of mammalian megaherbivores. Survey of fossil resources in the Pryor Mountain Wilderness Study Area (BLM) Growth and evolution of long-necked dinosaurs (Adelphi FDR) Evolution of the first mammalian megaherbivore (Eppley Foundation) Climate impact on evolution of growth (Toomey Foundation) Excavation of a rare dinosaur bonebed (American Philosophical Society) He is a Senior Editor for the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology and has contributed to science outreach through a TED-Ed lesson on mass extinctions. He also organized the Northeast Regional Vertebrate Evolution Symposium at Adelphi University in 2016, fostering academic collaboration in the field.
Piedad Nieves is a Professor at the Universidad Miguel Hernández (UMH), affiliated with the Institute of Bioengineering and the Department of Materials Science, Optics and Electronic Technology. She coordinates courses in Biotechnology and Fashion Management and Technology at both bachelor's and master's levels, focusing on biomaterials, material technology, and biotechnological applications. Her research centers on the development and characterization of ceramic scaffolds for bone tissue engineering, with a particular emphasis on bioactive materials, ion doping, and surface modifications to enhance regenerative outcomes. As Director of the Research Group in Materials Science and a member of the University Senate (Sector 1), she oversees the Characterization of Solid Materials laboratory. Her work includes preclinical testing of dental implants, biomechanical analysis of implant macrogeometries, and in vitro/in vivo studies of stem cell responses to ceramic substrates. She maintains an active teaching schedule across multiple academic years, with laboratory and lecture responsibilities in courses such as Biotechnological Material and Research Activities and Funding. Contact details include her office at Edificio Torrevaillo, Avda. Universidad s/n, 03202 Elche, Spain, and phone numbers +34 96 665 8485 (direct) or +34 96 522 2000 (institute line). Her research outputs span 3D porous scaffolds, titanium surface treatments, and novel implant designs with mechanical and biological evaluations.
Raffaele Vinci is an Associate Professor of Odontostomatological Diseases at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, where he serves as Director of the School of Specialization in Oral Surgery. He is also Head of the Advanced Oral Surgery Department at the Department of Dentistry of the IRCCS San Raffaele in Milan, working under the direction of Professor EF Gherlone. His educational background includes: Graduated in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Milan (1980) Specialization in Oro-maxillofacial Surgery at Center for Correction of Dento-maxillo-facial Deformities, University of Texas (1983) Diploma of Specialization in Maxillofacial Surgery with full marks from University of Milan (1985) Dr. Vinci has extensive expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery, with particular focus on dental implantology, bone grafting techniques, and rehabilitation of atrophic jaws. His research explores innovative approaches to sinus augmentation, tilted implant placement, and digital workflows in oral surgery. He has contributed significantly to establishing evidence-based protocols for complex oral rehabilitation cases. His publication record demonstrates a strong focus on clinical outcomes of dental implant procedures, with emphasis on long-term follow-up studies and comparative analyses of different surgical techniques. Recent work investigates digital versus traditional workflows, marginal bone loss around short implants, and multidisciplinary consensus approaches for challenging maxillary rehabilitation cases. Professional achievements include: National scientific qualification as associate professor (2014) Appointment as Associate Professor of Odontostomatological Diseases (2016) President-elect of SidCo, the Italian Society of Dental Surgery (2019) Dr. Vinci has been actively involved in teaching since 1993, initially as a Contract Professor at the University of Ferrara, and subsequently at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University where he teaches Major and Pre-implant Oral Surgery and Special Odontostomatological Surgery. He has directed the School of Specialization in Oral Surgery since 2018. He leads the Advanced Oral Surgery Department at IRCCS San Raffaele, which serves as a clinical and research hub for complex oral rehabilitation cases, focusing on evidence-based approaches to implant dentistry and maxillofacial surgical procedures.
Chelsea Hopkins serves as a Postdoc and Guest Researcher in the Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in translational and clinical pharmacology. She is actively involved in The Graduate Programme for In Vivo Pharmacology and Experimental Animals, conducting research on rare skeletal disorders and pain mechanisms. Her primary research focuses on fibrous dysplasia and McCune-Albright syndrome, with emphasis on disease pathogenesis, nociceptive pain pathways, and preclinical model development. She employs in vivo pharmacology techniques to investigate skeletal pain mechanisms and evaluate novel therapeutic interventions for rare bone diseases, bridging basic science and clinical applications. Analysis of her 2022-2025 publications reveals a concentrated trajectory in fibrous dysplasia research, evolving from systematic model reviews to mechanistic pain studies and therapeutic development. Her work demonstrates increasing translational sophistication, moving from disease characterization to targeted pain management strategies using peripherally restricted compounds. Dr. Hopkins maintains extensive international collaborations across North America and Europe, evidenced by co-authorship with leading researchers like Collins M.T. and Boyce A. Her participation in graduate training programs highlights her role in mentoring next-generation pharmacologists through The Graduate Programme for In Vivo Pharmacology and Experimental Animals.
Deva Chan is an Assistant Professor in Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University, with a courtesy appointment in Mechanical Engineering. She is affiliated with the Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering and focuses on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of biomechanics, medical imaging, and tissue engineering. Her work emphasizes cartilage mechanics, osteoarthritis progression, and the application of advanced imaging techniques for understanding musculoskeletal disorders. Research interests span the biomechanical and biochemical mechanisms underlying joint degeneration, including hyaluronic acid metabolism, cellular repair responses, and fibrosis. Methodologically, her lab employs finite element modeling, micro-CT imaging, and live-cell biomechanical systems to study tissue behavior under physiological and pathological conditions. Recent studies highlight her contributions to understanding how mechanical loading influences synovial biology, the role of hyaluronic acid in cartilage health, and the development of novel imaging modalities for non-invasive tissue characterization. Key projects include modeling knee osteoarthritis progression and developing pneumatically controlled cell-stretching devices for mechanobiology studies.
Babak N. Safa is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medical Engineering at the University of South Florida. He directs the Safa Research Lab focused on ocular and soft tissue biomechanics. His research integrates engineering, medicine, and biology to address glaucoma and musculoskeletal disorders using computational modeling, benchtop testing, and clinical research. Education: Postdoctoral Fellow: Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Tech/Emory University (2024) Ph.D.: Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware (2019) B.Sc.: Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology (2014) Research Areas: Ocular biomechanics, glaucoma pathogenesis, tissue mechanobiology, and therapeutic innovation for vision preservation. His NIH-funded work investigates iris biomechanics in angle-closure glaucoma and optic nerve head remodeling. Funding: NIH Pathway to Independence Grant K99/R00 (2023-2028) BrightFocus Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship (2021-2023)
Dr. Alejandro Almarza is a Professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, with over 15 years of expertise in tissue engineering and regenerative therapies for musculoskeletal tissues. His NIH-funded research program ($12M+) focuses on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) regeneration, pain mechanisms, and translational applications of extracellular matrix scaffolds. Education: BS Chemical Engineering, Florida State University (2001) PhD Bioengineering, Rice University (2005) Research Focus: Dr. Almarza's lab develops innovative approaches for TMJ regeneration using large animal models (porcine, ovine, caprine) and investigates biophysical aspects of joint degeneration. Key areas include: 3D visualization of joint innervation CRISPR-based epigenome modulation Extracellular matrix scaffold design Mechanotransduction in cartilage Human pain phenotyping Recent Publications demonstrate strong emphasis on translational pathways for TMJ therapies, with 67% of last 15 articles focusing on large animal validation studies and scaffold biocompatibility testing. Biomechanical characterization appears in 40% of recent works. Research Infrastructure: Leads the TMJ Regeneration Laboratory with capabilities for biomechanical testing, histomorphometry, and in vivo modeling. Collaborates with McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine.
