Dr. Jessica Sunshine is a Professor in the Department of Geology at the University of Maryland. Her research focuses on planetary materials and processes, particularly using spectroscopy and morphological analysis to study comets, asteroids, meteorites, and lunar geology. She is a principal investigator on NASA missions such as the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) and the Lucy Mission, contributing to breakthroughs in planetary defense and asteroid composition analysis. Dr. Sunshine holds a Ph.D. from Brown University (1994). Her work integrates field-based and remote sensing techniques, including thermal infrared spectroscopy, to explore topics like the origins of spinel-rich deposits on the Moon, the composition of Trojan asteroids, and the dynamics of impact ejecta. She leads the Lunar Vulkan Imaging and Spectroscopy Explorer (Lunar-VISE) mission to study non-mare volcanic regions on the Moon. Her recent studies include analyzing the DART mission's impact on Dimorphos, revealing insights into asteroid deflection mechanics and surface material responses. She has also contributed to understanding the geological history of Ceres and the compositional diversity of Jupiter Trojans through the Lucy mission's data.
Lauri Rautkari is an Associate Professor in the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems at Aalto University, Finland. His research focuses on water interactions in biomaterials, particularly wood, with an emphasis on developing advanced analytical methods for water vapor sorption, creating novel low-sorption materials, and investigating hygroscopicity and fungal decay resistance in modified wood systems. Research Highlights: Gas-phase ozone treatment for improved wettability, thermal and chemical wood modification, hyperspectral imaging for moisture prediction, bioinspired coatings for fungal protection, and interlaboratory studies on sorption data quality. Recent Publications: Key contributions to understanding lignin's role in moisture interactions, acetylation reversibility, and the impact of fungal degradation on heat-treated wood. The trend in his publications reflects a strong focus on hygroscopicity, chemical modification techniques (acetylation, melamine-formaldehyde impregnation), advanced imaging methods (hyperspectral, neutron scattering), and the development of sustainable wood-based materials for construction and acoustic applications. Collaborative interlaboratory efforts dominate his work, ensuring standardized methodologies for moisture analysis.
Gordon J. Stacey is the David C. Duncan Professor in the Physical Sciences and CCAT Project Director at Cornell University's Department of Astronomy. He received his PhD in Astronomy from Cornell in 1985 and joined the faculty in 1991 after postdoctoral work at UC Berkeley. His research focuses on star and galaxy formation across cosmic time, utilizing far-infrared/submillimeter spectroscopy. He leads the CCAT Project, developing the FYST telescope in Chile, and is Principal Investigator for the POEMM mission targeting protoplanetary disks. Notable contributions include instrumental advancements like ZEUS-2 and EoR-Spec, as well as seminal studies on [CII], [NII], and [OIII] lines in high-redshift galaxies. Education: PhD in Astronomy from Cornell University (1985). Research emphasizes interstellar medium interactions, cosmic evolution, and instrumentation. Key projects include EoR-Spec for FYST (first light 2027) and the VIPA-based POEMM mission (2029 balloon flight). Awards include the David C. Duncan Professorship. His work bridges observational cosmology, galaxy evolution, and technological innovation in astronomy. Scientific awards include the endowed David C. Duncan Professorship. Current roles involve directing the CCAT Project and advancing instrumentation for submillimeter astronomy. Future projects focus on protoplanetary disk studies via POEMM and FYST observations of the Epoch of Reionization.
Katherine Lanigan is Professor of Chemistry in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at University of Detroit Mercy's College of Engineering & Science, teaching General Chemistry, Quantitative Analysis, and Instrumental Analysis since joining the faculty in 2001. Her educational background includes: Ph.D. in Chemistry, University of Iowa (1996) B.S. in Chemistry, University of Dayton (1990) Dr. Lanigan's research integrates analytical chemistry with environmental science through two primary avenues: trace metal analysis in ecological systems using FAAS, XRF, and UV/vis spectroscopy, and investigations of photocatalytic reactions involving nanoparticles for contaminant degradation. Her secondary focus examines adsorbed species at liquid/solid interfaces of metal oxide films using ATR-FTIR, with recent expansion into cloud point extraction methods for metal preconcentration in water samples. These efforts address critical environmental monitoring and remediation challenges. Analysis of her 2015-2024 publications reveals dual expertise in environmental analytical chemistry and pedagogical innovation, with environmental work emphasizing practical metal detection techniques and education research developing theme-based water quality activities across instructional levels. Her scientific recognition includes: National Institute of Health ReBUILDetroit Pilot Project Course Development Award (2017, co-PI) UDMPU Faculty Research Awards (2016, 2015) Dr. Lanigan has mentored 38 students since 2002, with alumni pursuing dentistry (University of Detroit Mercy, Case Western, Michigan, Pennsylvania), medicine, and chemistry careers. Her secured funding supports both research instrumentation and educational development initiatives. The active Lanigan Research Group currently comprises Jisoo Kim, Heewoong Kim, and Tina Lee, with Kelly Cho, Alina Varghese, and Abdel El Sayed joining for Fall 2025 projects on photocatalytic nickel oxidation and drinking water metal analysis.
Kate Kemsley is a Professor in the School of Chemistry, Pharmacy and Pharmacology at the University of East Anglia (UEA), where she leads the Centre of Expertise in Food Authenticity, part of the UK's Food Authenticity Network. She also holds an external role as Scientific Director at Mestrelab Research S.L., a scientific software division of Bruker Corporation. Education: Doctor of Philosophy Master of Physics, University of Oxford Her research focuses on the application of computational statistics, machine learning, and deep learning to diverse datasets including NMR, LC-MS, infrared, and Raman spectroscopy, with a strong emphasis on food authenticity and natural product integrity. She applies AI and cheminformatics to detect adulteration in edible oils, spices, coffee, fruits, and meat. A significant portion of her recent work involves high-resolution and benchtop NMR data analysis using convolutional and message-passing neural networks. The most recent articles highlight a strong trend in applying deep learning models—particularly message passing neural networks (MPNNs)—to predict NMR chemical shifts and verify molecular structures. These works bridge cheminformatics and artificial intelligence, demonstrating applications in small molecule analysis, metabolomics, and food authenticity. The research spans analytical chemistry, machine learning, and industrial applications in food, pharma, and instrumentation. Scientific Awards and Recognition: h-index of 37 (Scopus) Leader of UEA's Centre of Expertise in Food Authenticity Member of DEFRA Expert Committee, Authenticity Methodology Working Group (2024–2027) She is actively involved in advising and research grants, currently leading or participating in multiple funded projects such as AI-driven small molecule structure elucidation, metabolomics studies on arthritis, and integration of compact NMR with mass spectrometry. Her collaborations span forensic, food, pharmaceutical, and instrumentation sectors, including partnerships with Mestrelab Research and Versus Arthritis. She is accepting PhD students and regularly contributes to training and dissemination through webinars and workshops. Kate Kemsley is affiliated with key research groups including the UEA Centre of Expertise in Food Authenticity and collaborates with the Community for Analytical Measurement Science and the UK Food Authenticity Network. Her work integrates academic research with industrial software development through her role at Mestrelab, advancing automation and high-throughput analysis in chemical and food sciences.
Ole Bang is a Professor and Groupleader of the Fiber Sensors & Supercontinuum group at the Department of Electrical and Photonics Engineering, Technical University of Denmark (DTU). His work spans fundamental and applied research in nonlinear optics, fiber sensors, and biophotonics, with strong industrial collaboration and alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals. Research Interests: Supercontinuum broadband light sources Fiber-optical biosensors Microstructured polymer optical fibers (mPOFs) Nonlinear optics and nonlinear dynamics Numerical modelling of nonlinear pulse propagation Mid-infrared and terahertz photonics His recent publications (2025) demonstrate a strong focus on advanced optical sensing technologies, including mid-infrared surface plasmon resonance sensors, real-time DNA binding detection, and high-resolution liquid level sensors using fiber Bragg gratings. These works highlight trends toward biomedical, environmental, and industrial applications of photonic technologies. Scientific Awards: No awards mentioned in the provided text. Advising and Grants: Currently supervising multiple PhD students in active projects such as Femtosecond Fiber Lasers and Low-Noise Supercontinuum Sources , Mid-infrared supercontinuum generation and rogue waves , and UV Supercontinuum Sources and Meta-Surfaces . Projects funded through DTU PhD programs, indicating institutional grant support. Labs and Teams: Ole Bang leads the Fiber Sensors & Supercontinuum research group at DTU, focusing on the development and application of advanced fiber-based photonic technologies. The group is highly active in both experimental and theoretical research, with strong ties to industrial partners like Koheras A/S and Crystal Fibre A/S.
Tyler L Cocker is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Michigan State University , pioneering ultrafast terahertz nanoscopy. His research focuses on developing lightwave-driven THz-STM to capture femtosecond-scale electron dynamics at atomic resolution, with recent work revealing molecular orbital dynamics and black phosphorus heterostructures. Education: Ph.D., University of Alberta (2012) B.Sc., University of Victoria (2006) His group explores ultrafast processes in quantum materials using complementary techniques like s-SNOM and THz spectroscopy, addressing fundamental questions about nanoscale charge transport and elementary excitations. Recent publications include Nature Photonics and Nature Nanotechnology papers on atomic-scale THz spectroscopy and interlayer transport in 2D materials. Awards include the 2024 DOE Early Career Award, 2021 ARO Young Investigator Award, and 2020 IRMMW-THz Young Scientist Award. Scientific Awards: DOE Early Career Award (2024) MSU Teaching Award (2023) ARO Young Investigator Award (2021) IRMMW-THz Young Scientist Award (2020) Jerry Cowen Endowed Chair (2019) The group has secured multiple grants from ONR, AFOSR, and DURIP, supporting development of third-generation THz-STM systems. Former students like S. Eve Ammerman (first PhD graduate, 2022) and Vedran Jelic (now at NRC Ottawa) have received prestigious fellowships and awards.
Matthew Fraser is a Professor and Associate Director at Arizona State University's School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment. He is affiliated with the Urban Climate Research Center and serves as a Senior Global Futures Scientist. Education : Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering Science from Caltech (1998), M.S. in Environmental Engineering Science from Caltech (1993), B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University (1991) His research focuses on urban air quality , alternative energy systems , and atmospheric monitoring . Recent work examines wildfire smoke impact, microplastics in desert soils, and ozone behavior in urban regions. Publications span Environmental Science and Technology , Atmospheric Environment , and Science of the Total Environment . Notable scientific awards include Arizona State University's 'Top 5%' Faculty Teaching Award (2018, 2021). Research grants include projects funded by the National Institutes of Health , US Department of Energy , and Semiconductor Research Corporation . Service Roles : Member of University Consortium for Atmospheric Research (2010–Present), Committee Member for ASU Sustainability Minor (2009–Present), and Chair of Science Advisory Board for Mid-Infrared Technologies for Health and the Environment Engineering Research Center (2007–Present)
Ares Rosakis is the Theodore von Kármán Professor of Aeronautics and Mechanical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). He has served as Chair of the Division of Engineering and Applied Science (2009–2015) and Director of the Graduate Aeronautical Laboratories (GALCIT) (2004–2009). Rosakis holds visiting professorships at Nanyang Technological University (2018–2023) and Northwestern University (2018). Education : B.A. and M.A. in Engineering Science (Oxford, 1978); Sc.M. and Ph.D. in Engineering (Solid Mechanics, Brown University, 1980–1982) Academic Career : Caltech faculty since 1982 (Assistant, 1982; Associate, 1988; Full Professor, 1993) As a world-leading expert in dynamic failure mechanics of solid materials, Rosakis has pioneered research in dynamic ductile failure of metals, intersonic/supershear ruptures in composites and earthquakes, and Coherent Gradient Sensing (CGS) interferometry . His work spans experimental mechanics, solid mechanics, geophysics, and thin film stress measurement. His 15 most recent articles (2010–2014) focus on dynamic shear ruptures , fault mechanics , brittle failure , high-strain-rate deformation , and laboratory earthquake simulations , reflecting his cross-disciplinary expertise in materials science, geophysics, and mechanics. Scientific Awards & Recognitions Foreign Member of the Royal Society (2024) Two Honorary Doctorates (2023) U.S. National Academy of Engineering (2011) NASA Group Achievement Award (2009) Timoshenko Medal (2018) Multiple SEM and ASME awards (1989–2013) Research Leadership includes directing GALCIT and developing advanced optical and infrared diagnostic methods for real-time crack propagation and temperature measurement. His work bridges fundamental mechanics with applied material failure analysis , influencing aerospace, seismology, and nanotechnology.
Don Figer is a Professor in the College of Science at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and serves as the Director of the Center for Detectors (CfD) and Founder of the Rochester Imaging Detector Laboratory, the Center for Detectors, and the Future Photon Initiative (FPI). He previously co-founded and directed the Independent Detector Testing Laboratory at the Space Telescope Science Institute for the James Webb Space Telescope, where his team characterized infrared detectors. His educational background includes: BA from Northwestern University MS from the University of Chicago Ph.D. from the University of California Dr. Figer's research spans astronomical instrumentation (infrared detectors, photonics, and quantum optics) and astrophysics (massive stars, young star clusters, and the Galactic center). He is renowned for identifying the Pistol star as one of the most massive known stars and for making the first direct measurement of an upper limit to stellar masses. His work has led to over 300 publications with 8,500+ citations and an h-index of 48. His research articles from the early 2010s consistently focus on massive star formation in Milky Way star-forming regions and the Galactic center, utilizing multiwavelength observations and advanced detector technologies. These studies advanced understanding of massive star clusters, interstellar medium dynamics, and nuclear star-forming rings through infrared spectroscopy and hydrodynamics simulations. Dr. Figer has secured substantial research funding: Center for Detectors: 32 externally funded projects annually (~$6 million) Future Photon Initiative: 43 ongoing grants ($7.7 million) and 24 new grants ($5.7 million) in 2024 He founded the Center for Detectors, operating nine laboratories with seven professors and over two dozen students, and the Future Photon Initiative uniting eleven RIT research groups to develop photonic devices for astrophysics, quantum computing, and biophotonics applications.
Kevin K. Lehmann is the William R. Kenan, Jr., Professor of Chemistry at the University of Virginia, within the Department of Chemistry in the College of Arts & Sciences. He is a leading researcher in molecular spectroscopy, with a focus on ultrasensitive detection methods such as cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) and double-resonance techniques. His educational background includes a B.S. from Cook College, Rutgers University (1977), a Ph.D. from Harvard University (1983), and a Junior Fellowship at the Harvard Society of Fellows. Lehmann's research is centered on advancing trace gas sensing using optical methods, particularly CRDS with high-reflectivity cavities and telecom-grade lasers. His group has pioneered Doppler-free two-photon CRDS and sub-Doppler double-resonance spectroscopy using frequency combs, enabling high-precision measurement of molecular transitions in gases like methane and nitrous oxide. These methods have applications in atmospheric science, planetary exploration (e.g., Mars missions), and combustion diagnostics. He also investigates meta-science questions around the reproducibility of spectroscopic data. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in high-resolution, quantum-limited spectroscopic techniques applied to small polyatomic molecules. There is a clear focus on enhancing selectivity and sensitivity through nonlinear optical effects, cavity enhancement, and advanced detection schemes. Applications span environmental monitoring, astrochemistry, and fundamental molecular physics. Fellow of the Optical Society, 2011 W.R. Kenan Professor of Chemistry, 2009 Earle K. Plyler Award in Molecular Spectroscopy, 2003 Thomas A. Edison Patent Award, 2002 Fellow of the American Physical Society, 1995 Lehmann has advised numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, and his lab has been supported by grants from agencies involved in space exploration, environmental science, and fundamental physics. His work has led to commercial instrumentation through Tiger Optics, Inc. He maintains strong international collaborations, particularly with researchers in Sweden on methane spectroscopy. While specific grant details are not listed, the scope and impact of his research suggest sustained funding from NSF, NASA, and DOE. His laboratory focuses on optical cavity-based sensors and high-resolution spectroscopy setups, integrating frequency combs, narrow-linewidth lasers, and cryogenic pre-concentration systems for trace analysis. The team combines experimental innovation with theoretical modeling to interpret complex spectra and improve measurement fidelity.
Dr. Dave Rowe is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Southampton, affiliated with the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC). His research focuses on mid-infrared spectroscopy, silicon photonics, and their applications in biomedical engineering and sensing technologies. He has contributed to advancements in therapeutic drug monitoring, point-of-care diagnostics, and machine learning-driven biomarker analysis. Currently supervising PhD students Daniel Owens (PhD Infec Inflamm&Immunity PT) and Nikita Anastasia Sapphire Lack (PhD ORC), his work bridges fundamental photonics research with real-world clinical and industrial applications. Collaborations include projects on mid-infrared photonic devices, terahertz spectroscopy, and integrated circuit design. Contact: D.Rowe@soton.ac.uk.
Dr. Ernesto Elias Vidal Rosas is a Lecturer at the School of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton. Previously, he was a Postdoctoral Researcher at UCL Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering Department. He specializes in neuroimaging and optical technologies with extensive expertise in near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), diffuse optical tomography (DOT), and wearable brain imaging systems. He is currently accepting PhD students. Research Focus: Dr. Vidal-Rosas leads research in neuroimaging methodologies and brain-computer interfaces. His work emphasizes wearable technologies for clinical and home-based monitoring, with applications spanning from neonatal care to motor rehabilitation. Key research domains include: Development of high-density diffuse optical tomography (HD-DOT) systems Integration of EEG and fNIRS for brain-computer interfaces Real-time processing algorithms for neurofeedback applications Non-invasive monitoring of therapeutic responses in oncology He is currently involved in the Horizon Europe PUREMIND project focused on preventing mental illness through multimodal biomarker analysis. Academic Activities: Actively advises PhD candidates in Computer Science and teaches undergraduate courses including Healthcare Technology Design (ELEC2231) and Digital Control System Design (ELEC3206). His pedagogical research includes developing virtual tools for engineering education. Affiliations: Member of the Digital Health and Biomedical Engineering research group and the Institute for Life Sciences at Southampton.
Surendranath Suman is an Assistant Dean of Research and Professor in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at the University of Kentucky's College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. He also holds secondary appointments with the Center for Muscle Biology and the Division of Nutritional Sciences. With over 15 years of academic service at the university, he has progressed from Assistant Professor (2006-2012) to Associate Professor (2012-2017) and currently serves as Professor (2017-present). Dr. Suman earned his B.V.Sc. & A.H. from Kerala Agricultural University (1999), M.V.Sc. from Indian Veterinary Research Institute (2001), and Ph.D. from University of Connecticut (2006). He is also a Diplomate of the American College of Animal Sciences (2010). His research focuses on meat science with particular expertise in proteomics of meat quality, myoglobin chemistry and meat color stability, and novel strategies to improve meat quality. Dr. Suman has made significant contributions to understanding the biochemical mechanisms behind fresh meat color, particularly in beef and pork. His work integrates traditional meat science methodologies with high-throughput proteomic and metabolomic approaches to unravel complex biochemical pathways. Analysis of Dr. Suman's recent publications reveals a strong focus on meat color stability mechanisms, particularly through proteomic approaches. His research spans multiple species including beef cattle, pork, bison, and poultry, with particular attention to mitochondrial functionality, myoglobin chemistry, and post-translational modifications that influence meat quality attributes. Recent work has expanded into metabolomics applications in meat science. Scientific Awards and Recognition Distinguished Research Award, American Meat Science Association (2022) University Research Professor, University of Kentucky (2021) International Lectureship Award, American Meat Science Association (2019) Distinguished Alumni Award, University of Connecticut (2019) Meats Research Award, American Society of Animal Science (2018) Thomas Poe Cooper Distinguished Research Award, University of Kentucky (2017) Bobby Pass Excellence in Grantsmanship Award, University of Kentucky (2016) Special Visiting Researcher Fellowship, Government of Brazil (2014-2017) Early Career Achievement Award, American Society of Animal Science (2013) Dr. Suman has served as an invited speaker internationally across six continents and is an active editorial board member for numerous prestigious journals including Meat and Muscle Biology (Associate Editor), Journal of Animal Science, and Meat Science. His extensive editorial service reflects his standing as a leading authority in meat science research. He has successfully secured multiple research grants, as evidenced by the Bobby Pass Excellence in Grantsmanship Award he received in 2016. As Assistant Dean of Research, Dr. Suman plays a leadership role in advancing research initiatives within the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. His collaborative research involves multiple laboratories both domestically and internationally, particularly with institutions in Brazil, given his Special Visiting Researcher Fellowship from the Brazilian government. His work bridges fundamental biochemistry with practical applications in meat production and quality assessment.
Catherine Neish is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at The University of Western Ontario. She serves as the Associate Director of Research for Western Space and is a Co-Investigator on NASA's Dragonfly mission to Titan. Her research focuses on planetary radar observations, impact cratering processes, and the geological evolution of planetary surfaces, particularly on the Moon, Titan, and other Solar System bodies. Ph.D. in Planetary Sciences, University of Arizona (2008) B.Sc. in Combined Honours Physics and Astronomy, University of British Columbia (2004) Her recent publications highlight studies on lunar impact crater thermophysics, Titan's impact melt dynamics, and radar-based analyses of planetary surfaces. She has contributed to missions including Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (Mini-RF), Cassini RADAR, and Dragonfly. Scientific Awards: College of New Scholars, Royal Society of Canada (2021) Early Researcher Award, Ontario (2017) Minor Planet 16972 Neish (2017) AGU Ron Greeley Award (2014) NASA Postdoctoral Fellowship (2012) NASA Group Achievement Award (2010) NSERC Postgraduate Scholarship (2005-2008) Julie Payette-NSERC Research Scholarship (2004-2005) Dr. Neish supervises a dynamic lab with current and former students investigating planetary geology, impact cratering, and remote sensing. Her work bridges field studies (e.g., Earth analogs), laboratory experiments, and spacecraft data analysis.
