Professor Hak-Kim Chan of the Sydney Pharmacy School at the University of Sydney is a world-renowned expert in respiratory drug delivery, particularly pulmonary aerosols and inhalation therapies. With over 480 publications and 17,580+ Google Scholar citations, he has pioneered advancements in powder formulation , in silico modeling , and clinical applications of inhalation technologies. His work includes the development of FDA-approved diagnostics like Aridol™ (inhaled mannitol for asthma) and Bronchitol™ (for cystic fibrosis), and groundbreaking research on inhaled bacteriophage therapy to combat antibiotic-resistant respiratory infections. Education: BPharm (University Medal, 1983), PhD (1988), DSc (2009) from University of Sydney Professional Experience: Postdoc at University of Minnesota (1988–89), Scientist at Genentech Inc. (1992–95) Leadership: Executive Editor of Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews , Fellow of AAPS and RACI His research spans in vitro production methods, computational modeling of inhaler design, and in vivo imaging of aerosol deposition. Current projects focus on nanomedicine , phage therapy , and combating superbugs via inhalation routes. He has secured significant recognition for his work, including NHMRC case studies highlighting public health impacts. Professor Chan has supervised numerous researchers, including PhD student Grace YAU studying pulmonary probiotic delivery . His team's 10 patents (7 as first inventor) reflect practical innovations in dry powder inhalers , antimicrobial formulations , and drug stabilization technologies.
Thomas Winkler is an Associate Professor at the Division of Micro and Nanosystems, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden, and collaborates with TU Braunschweig, Germany. His research focuses on solving life science challenges using microsystems tools, particularly in neuropsychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. He develops organ-on-chip models, engineered microfluidic platforms, and biosensors for point-of-care diagnostics. Winkler leads an interdisciplinary ERC-funded team addressing metabolic coupling in neurovascular units and oxidative stress biomarkers. Key achievements include the ERC Starting Grant (2023) and work on electrochemical sensors for clozapine monitoring. He teaches courses such as Microsystem Technology (EK2350) and supervises PhD and postdoctoral researchers. Current projects include machine learning-guided robotic organoid maturation and electrochemical technology development for the CHIPzophrenia initiative. His lab actively seeks talent through open positions in Stockholm and Braunschweig. Scientific awards include the ERC Starting Grant and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Fellowship. Research spans sensor development, microfabrication, and biomaterials, with a focus on translating lab technologies to clinical applications. Collaborations bridge engineering and life sciences, emphasizing personalized mental healthcare solutions.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityUnited States
Matthew W. Buczynski is an Assistant Professor at the School of Neuroscience , part of the College of Science at Virginia Tech . Holding a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of California San Diego (2008) and postdoctoral training at The Scripps Research Institute (2009-2016), he joined Virginia Tech in August 2016 after completing his postdoctoral fellowship. Education: B.S. in Chemistry, University of Michigan , 2001 Ph.D. in Biochemistry, University of California San Diego , 2008 Postdoctoral Training, The Scripps Research Institute , 2009-2016 Dr. Buczynski’s research program focuses on identifying novel druggable targets for addiction and neurological disorders through mass spectrometry and behavioral pharmacology . His work integrates chemical biology , molecular pharmacology , and in vivo microdialysis to study molecular changes in the brain during chronic drug exposure. Key areas include nicotine dependence , ethanol withdrawal , and cross-talk between pain and addiction mechanisms. His recent publications highlight endocannabinoid system modulation , TRPV1/TRPA1 receptor activation in pain, and diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL) mechanisms in nicotine withdrawal. He employs both self-administration and forced exposure models to validate therapeutic targets. Prospective students can contact him directly through his lab’s website .
Jindal Shah is a Professor and holds the Anadarko Petroleum Chair in Chemical Engineering at Oklahoma State University, where he also serves as the Graduate Program Director. He is affiliated with the Department of Chemical Engineering within the College of Engineering at Oklahoma State University. Dr. Shah received his educational training from prestigious institutions worldwide. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame in 2005, followed by an M.S. in Environmental Engineering from the University of Cincinnati in 1999, and completed his undergraduate education with a B.Tech. in Chemical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay in 1996. Dr. Shah's research focuses on the application of molecular simulation methodologies to understand molecular-level interactions that give rise to macroscopic phenomena. His primary research interests include Monte Carlo and Molecular Dynamics Simulations, Phase Equilibria, Ionic liquids, and Dye-sensitized solar cells. A significant portion of his work centers on designing novel biodegradable ionic liquids with properties suitable for chemical processes, with applications in next-generation batteries and carbon capture. He also investigates molecular-level interactions responsible for device efficiency in dye-sensitized solar cells to rationally design novel dye molecules. Additionally, Dr. Shah employs data science and machine learning techniques to correlate properties of ionic liquids and generate new molecules with desired properties. An analysis of Dr. Shah's recent publications reveals a strong focus on ionic liquids and their applications in energy storage and carbon capture technologies. His work consistently bridges fundamental molecular-level understanding with practical applications, particularly in developing electrolytes for batteries and CO2 capture systems. A notable trend is the integration of machine learning techniques with traditional molecular simulation methods to accelerate materials discovery and optimization. His research demonstrates a progression from fundamental molecular simulations toward applied technologies with significant environmental impact, particularly in climate action (SDG 13) and affordable clean energy (SDG 7). Dr. Shah has secured substantial research funding from multiple prestigious sources including the National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Energy, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and industry partners. His funded projects include 'Collaborative Research: Cyber Training-Implementation, Medium, Establishing Sustainable Ecosystem for Computational Molecular Science Training & Education' (NSF), 'Ionic Liquids for Direct Air Capture of CO2 using Electric-Field-Mediated Moisture Gradient Process' (DOE), and 'CAREER: Computation-Enabled Rational Design of Cytochrome P450 for Ionic Liquid Biodegradation' (NSF). These grants support his research in computational molecular science, CO2 capture technologies, and the development of biodegradable ionic liquids. As an educator, Dr. Shah has been actively involved in teaching graduate courses including Principles of Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics, Doctoral Thesis supervision, and specialized courses such as Machine Learning for Chemical Processes and Introduction to Chemical Process Analytics. His teaching philosophy integrates cutting-edge research with educational practice, preparing students for the computational challenges of modern chemical engineering. He has also mentored numerous doctoral students through their dissertation research, contributing to the development of the next generation of chemical engineers and computational scientists.
Professor Sir Peter Barnes is a leading figure in respiratory science at Imperial College London's National Heart and Lung Institute (NHLI) . As Professor of Thoracic Medicine , his work focuses on Asthma, COPD, and cellular senescence in lung disease , with over four decades of contributions to understanding inflammatory pathways and therapeutic innovations. Research Interests Mechanisms of chronic airway inflammation in Asthma and COPD Cellular senescence in lung aging and disease progression MicroRNA transfer via extracellular vesicles in COPD pathogenesis Targeted drug delivery for respiratory conditions Global health implications of lung disease Recent Publications highlight trends in: MicroRNA regulation of senescence and inflammation Extracellular vesicle dynamics in lung disease Biologics and corticosteroid efficacy in respiratory conditions Environmental factors influencing COPD and asthma Scientific Recognition Knighthood (2023) for services to respiratory science Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) and Academy of Medical Sciences (FMedSci) Collaborative Leadership at NHLI has mentored numerous postdocs and researchers. His work intersects with global initiatives like GOLD (Global Initiative for COPD) , influencing clinical guidelines and public health policy.
Andrés J. García is the Executive Director of the Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering & Bioscience and a Regents’ Professor in the George Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology. His research focuses on engineered biomaterials for regenerative medicine, including tissue repair, inflammation modulation, and cell adhesion mechanisms. He co-founded three startups (CellectCell, CorAmi Therapeutics, iTolerance) and holds multiple patents in biomaterials and drug delivery systems. Education: Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania, 1996 M.S.E., University of Pennsylvania, 1992 B.S., Cornell University, 1991 Research Interests: García’s work integrates engineering, materials science, and cell biology to develop biomaterials that direct cellular responses. Key areas include: Biomaterial platforms for bone repair and vascularization Immunomodulatory hydrogels for islet transplantation Antibacterial hydrogels for implant infection control Organoid generation using synthetic hydrogels Mechanisms of cell adhesion and mechanotransduction Publications: Over 30+ peer-reviewed articles in Nature Communications , Science Advances , Biomaterials , and others, highlighting innovations in hydrogel design, stem cell therapies, and biomaterial-driven tissue repair. Awards: Member of both the National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Medicine (2021), Clemson Award for Basic Research (2012), and Fellowships with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and AAAS. Labs/Teams: Leads the García Laboratory, collaborating across disciplines to translate biomaterials research into clinical applications. Active in startup partnerships and federal grants (e.g., NSF, NIH).
Professor Denis Doorly is a Professor of Fluid Mechanics in the Department of Aeronautics at Imperial College London's Faculty of Engineering. His research focuses on biomedical fluid mechanics, particularly respiratory and cardiovascular systems, with expertise in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and aerosol transport. He has published extensively on nasal airflow modeling, cardiovascular MRI simulations, and aerosol dynamics in medical contexts. Key contributions include CFD cohort studies on nasal decongestion effects, benchmarking models for SARS-CoV-2 transmission, and ventilator strategies during the pandemic. Research interests span biological fluid mechanics, biomedical flows, and medical device design. His work integrates computational modeling with clinical applications, addressing issues like tracheal compression, myocardial perfusion, and aerosol extraction during surgeries. Collaborations include studies on isolated heart models and particle deposition in respiratory systems. Affiliations include the Biological Fluid Mechanics and Biomedical Flows groups at Imperial. His publications (139+ articles) highlight interdisciplinary applications of fluid mechanics to healthcare challenges.
Johan Ulrik Lind is an Associate Professor and Groupleader at the Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark. His research focuses on cutting-edge biomedical engineering solutions including tissue engineering, bioprinting, and microphysiological systems. He actively contributes to additive manufacturing and functional materials development. Current Affiliation: Department of Health Technology, DTU Research Areas: 3D bioprinting, hydrogel technologies, microsystems engineering Expertise: UN Sustainable Development Goals for health and well-being Lind's work spans additive manufacturing for tissue engineering, functionalized biomaterials , and dynamic microphysiological systems . His recent publications highlight innovations in hydrogel formulation, bioink development, and particulate drug delivery systems. Notably, he holds a patent for transparent bioink formulation. He supervises multiple PhD projects including: micro-perfused bioartificial ovaries, embedded bioprinting of perfusable vasculatures, and 3D printed microsystems for tissue actuation. His research portfolio demonstrates strong interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, biology, and pharmaceutical sciences.
Mehmet S. Ozcan, MD is an Associate Professor of Anesthesiology at Yale School of Medicine and Section Chief of Neuroanesthesia. He specializes in neurosurgical and critical care anesthesia, focusing on cerebrovascular diseases, intracranial tumors, and intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring. His roles include Co-Chief of the Division of Adult Multispecialty Anesthesia. Dr. Ozcan completed medical training at Istanbul University Cerrahpasa School of Medicine (1996), followed by residency and fellowships in anesthesiology and critical care at the University of Florida (2003–2005). He previously practiced at the University of Illinois Chicago and University of Oklahoma before joining Yale. Research interests include ethical considerations in neurocritical care, cerebrovascular management, and neuroanesthesia techniques. He has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, with recent work focusing on medical device transparency, entropy analysis in anesthesia, and lipid emulsion therapies. Professional activities include serving on the Society for Neuroscience in Anesthesiology and Critical Care (SNACC) Scientific Affairs Committee and editorial roles for journals like Anesthesia and Analgesia and Journal of Neurosurgical Anesthesia .
Vincent Rotello is a University Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He holds multiple affiliations including Faculty in the Graduate Program in Molecular & Cellular Biology, the Center for Bioactive Delivery, the Models to Medicine program, the Center for Personalized Health Monitoring, and the Materials Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Graduate Program at the Institute for Applied Life Sciences. Dr. Rotello received his B.S. in Chemistry (Honors) from Illinois Institute of Technology in 1985, followed by an M. Phil and Ph.D. in Chemistry from Yale University in 1987 and 1990, respectively. He completed an NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology from 1990-1993 before joining the faculty at UMass Amherst. Professor Rotello's research focuses on supramolecular chemistry, particularly the study and application of non-covalent interactions including hydrogen bonding and aromatic stacking. His work spans nanotechnology, bionanotechnology, bioorthogonal chemistry, drug delivery, and antimicrobial development. His laboratory explores how these molecular recognition concepts can address essential questions in biology, biomedicine, and material chemistry, with particular emphasis on using synthetic organic chemistry to engineer interfaces between synthetic and biological worlds. The group has published over 650 peer-reviewed papers to date. His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward bioorthogonal catalysis, particularly 'nanozymes' and 'polyzymes' - nanomaterial scaffolds incorporating transition metal catalysts for localized drug and imaging agent generation. His research increasingly addresses biomedical applications including cancer treatment, bacterial infection control, and diagnostic development, with significant focus on antimicrobial applications and biofilm eradication. Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award (2023) Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate (2014, 2015, 2018-2023) Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (UK) NSF CAREER award Cottrell Scholar award Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Sloan Fellowship Professor Rotello has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, with recent PhD graduates including Dr. Aarohi Gupta and Dr. Aritra Nath Chattopadhyay. His research group maintains active collaborations across multiple disciplines and has secured significant funding for their work in nanotechnology and bionanotechnology. The group has published over 650 peer-reviewed papers, demonstrating consistent productivity and impact in their field. The Rotello Lab operates within the Lederle Graduate Research Tower at UMass Amherst, with office in room 379 and laboratory space in room 320. The group consists of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and visiting scholars from around the world, working collaboratively on projects spanning antimicrobials, bioorthogonal chemistry, drug delivery, and sensing technologies. The lab has documented numerous visiting scholars from institutions across Europe, Asia, and North America, indicating strong international collaborations.
Dr. Qian Zhong is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery at the University of Texas at Austin's College of Pharmacy. His research focuses on engineering biomaterials for precision diagnostics and therapeutics, particularly in cancer and chronic pulmonary disorders. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science from Wayne State University and completed postdoctoral training in Radiology at Stanford University. Education: Ph.D. in Materials Science, Wayne State University (Advisor: Prof. Sandro da Rocha) Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Radiology, Stanford University (Mentor: Prof. Raag Airan) Research Interests: Dr. Zhong develops modular biomaterials for disease biomarker profiling, noninvasive diagnostics, and targeted drug delivery. His lab focuses on: Inhalable biosensors for early cancer detection Ultrasound-responsive drug delivery systems Microenvironment-based therapeutic platforms Noninvasive delivery via pulmonary/nasal routes Publications highlight advancements in fusogenic lipid nanocarriers, point-of-care diagnostics, and CRISPR-amplified biomarkers. His work bridges diagnostics and therapy to enable personalized precision medicine. Labs/Teams: Zhong's lab at UT Austin integrates bioengineering, materials science, and clinical translation to advance noninvasive approaches for early disease detection and targeted therapy.
Jason Shahin is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Medicine , Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , McGill University . He serves as an Investigator at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC) , specifically within the Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program . His academic and clinical work bridges critical care medicine and respiratory medicine at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) . Research Focus: Dr. Shahin specializes in risk prediction in intensive care units (ICU) , with particular emphasis on prediction tools for complex populations , including the chronic critically ill and potential organ donors . His work integrates clinical data science with translational approaches to improve ICU outcomes. Article Trends: His publications span critical care medicine , sepsis , mechanical ventilation , and organ donation . Recent studies focus on machine learning applications , probiotics in infection prevention , and blood conservation strategies in ICU settings. Key Collaborations: He contributes to large-scale trials like the LOVIT , PROSPECT , and FORECAST studies, collaborating with networks such as the Canadian Critical Care Trials Group and REVA Network .
Pilar Domingo Calap is an Associate Professor at the Universitat de València, affiliated with the Faculty of Biological Sciences and the Department of Genetics. Her research focuses on bacteriophage biology, viral evolution, and combating antibiotic resistance through phage therapy. She has contributed to understanding phage-host interactions, bacterial resistance mechanisms, and innovative applications of phage-based technologies in environmental and biomedical contexts. Recent publications highlight her work on phage depolymerases, capsule-specific targeting strategies, and synergies between phage therapy and nanotechnology. Her research group (EnBiVir) explores bacteriophages' applications in global health, while collaborations with EVOSALUD emphasize experimental evolution and epidemiology. She has developed tools like CleanBar for single-cell omics and DepoScope for enzyme annotation, demonstrating expertise in computational approaches to virology. Her studies span clinical applications (e.g., cystic fibrosis lung rejection, prosthetic joint infections) and environmental interventions (e.g., Salmonella control in broiler farms, Xylella fastidiosa mitigation).
Associate Professor Amit Pujari is a biomedical engineer and neuroscientist at the University of Hertfordshire, leading the Neu(RAL)² Laboratory. He holds an honorary position at the University of Aberdeen and is a Royal Academy of Engineering Industrial Fellow. His work focuses on developing non-invasive neuromodulatory devices for stroke and spinal injury rehabilitation. Education: PhD in Biomedical Engineering, University of Aberdeen (2016) MSc in Biomedical Engineering, University of Strathclyde (2007) BE in Instrumentation & Control Engineering, Pune University (2003) Research Interests: Optimizing neuromodulatory stimuli (vibrotactile/electrical) for rehabilitation, neurophysiological basis of vibration therapy, and assistive technologies. His lab is equipped with advanced tools like high-density EMG systems, TMSi devices, and custom vibration stimulators. Awards: Academy of Medical Sciences’ Top 25 Emerging Leaders (2023) British Science Association Award Lecture (2022) Winston Churchill Memorial Trust Fellowship (2017) Grants/Projects: VECTOR: Randomized controlled trial for Crohn’s disease rehabilitation (2024–2027) SPASMS: Wearable sensor technology for spasticity management (2023–2025) User-led design of neurotechnologies for stroke survivors (2023–2025) Labs: Neu(RAL)² Laboratory focuses on neural systems rehabilitation, housing state-of-the-art equipment for EMG/EEG, TMS, and custom devices.
Prof. Benedetta Bottari is an Associate Professor at the Department of Food and Drug Science, University of Parma. She specializes in food microbiology, focusing on lactic acid bacteria, fermented foods, and microbial dynamics in dairy products like Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Her research employs molecular techniques like PCR analysis and fluorescence microscopy to study microbial viability and biodiversity. Educational Background: PhD in Food Science and Technology (2006–2009), University of Parma MSc in Food Science and Technology (2004), University of Parma BSc in Agricultural Studies, Diploma from G. Marconi High School (1994–1999) Research Interests: Prof. Bottari’s work centers on microbial ecology in food systems, probiotic development, food safety, and the application of advanced molecular methods to study cheese microbiota. She has contributed to projects on prebiotic effects, UV treatment for microbial abatement, and the role of microbial communities in food quality. Grants & Projects: Co-led projects on Parmigiano Reggiano microbiota and probiotic strain selection Scientific coordination of EU-funded dairy science education initiatives Collaborations with industries like Tetra Pak and CIPACK for food safety solutions Teaching: She teaches courses in Food Microbiology, Probiotics, and Functional Foods across undergraduate and graduate programs in Food Engineering, Gastronomy, and Nutrition. Labs & Teams: Her research group focuses on food microbiology, collaborating with institutions like SIMTREA and the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium to advance food technology and safety.
