Associate Professor Mohammad Saadatfar is affiliated with the School of Civil Engineering at The University of Sydney. His research focuses on meso-scale materials, combining experiments with simulations to address challenges in environmental science, biomedical engineering, and advanced materials design. Key areas include the study of cellular solids, granular materials, and meta-materials. His work integrates physics, engineering, and biology, with applications to CO₂ geo-sequestration, bone implants, and mechanical meta-materials. He uses X-ray tomography, FE simulations, and topological analysis to explore material behavior. Recent publications span topics like additive manufactured foams, CO₂ flow dynamics in sandstone, and biomimetic wood structures. His contributions highlight interdisciplinary approaches to material science and engineering challenges. No scientific awards or student advisement details are explicitly mentioned in the provided text.
Teresa Bonacci is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences at the University of Calabria (UNICAL), where she conducts research and teaches in zoology with a focus on entomology. She is also the Scientific Director of the Zoology Museum within the university's museum system (SIMU). Her academic affiliations include membership in the PhD School of Life Science and Technology and leadership roles in degree program coordination. Laurea in Natural Sciences, University of Calabria PhD in Animal Biology, University of Calabria Socrates/Erasmus Scholarship, University of Kiel, Germany Research Grant (Assegno di ricerca), SSD BIO/05, University of Calabria National Scientific Qualification for Full Professor (I fascia) Her research spans applied and medico-veterinary entomology, forensic entomology, and conservation biology. She investigates saproxylic beetles (e.g., Cucujus spp.), pollinators (bees, flies, beetles), and insect behavior, especially in forensic contexts such as post-mortem interval estimation and myiasis. Her work integrates taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and chemical signaling, often in collaboration with chemists, legal experts, and conservation agencies. She has published extensively in high-impact journals, with over 80 scientific publications and strong citation metrics. The most recent articles reflect a multidisciplinary trend, combining taxonomy, forensic science, biodiversity monitoring, and veterinary entomology. Topics include the discovery of new insect species in Italy, the role of beetles in decomposition, insect damage in cultural heritage, and myiasis in domestic and wild animals. These works highlight her expertise in both fundamental zoological research and practical applications in forensics and conservation. Scientific Contributions: Over 80 scientific publications Scopus h-index: 15; Google Scholar h-index: 20 Key researcher in saproxylic beetle conservation Pioneer in forensic entomology studies in Southern Italy Active collaborator with legal and medical institutions She supervises numerous PhD and master's students and has directed over 90 theses. Her teaching responsibilities include courses in Zoology, Entomology, Forensic Entomology, and Medical-Veterinary Entomology. She is deeply involved in student mentorship, thesis supervision, and academic service, including examination boards and curriculum development. She also leads biodiversity monitoring projects in Calabrian national parks and has contributed to the development of machine learning tools for insect identification. Her research team collaborates with national and international institutions, including the CNR, University of Milan, and forensic pathology units. She leads projects on bioindicators, insect-plant interactions, and the impact of climate change on mountain species. The Zoology Museum under her direction supports both research and public outreach.
Professor Tariq Butt of Swansea University's Faculty of Science and Engineering leads the Biocontrol and Natural Products (BANP) group , focusing on entomopathogenic fungi and natural product-based biopesticides for managing pests impacting food security , human health , and agriculture . He co-directs the Natural Products BioHub and Health Technology Solutions Research Institute . His cross-disciplinary research includes collaborations with Dr Joel Loveridge (Chemistry) for chemical ecology, Professor Chedly Tizoui (Engineering) for plant-based molluscicides, and Professor Dan Eastwood (Biosciences) for fungal biocontrol. Externally, he works with experts in Greece, Brazil, Turkey, Saudi Arabia , and companies like Certis Belchim and Lallemand . Recent publications highlight his work on fungal volatile organic compounds for pest control, mosquito repellents , and microbial consortia to reduce chemical dependencies. He has supervised over 35 PhD/MSc students and contributed to 174+ peer-reviewed articles and 14 book chapters .
Dr. Sajid Alavi is a Professor in the Department of Grain Science and Industry at Kansas State University. He joined the faculty in 2002 after earning his Ph.D. in Food Science/Food Engineering from Cornell University (2002), M.S. in Agricultural and Biological Engineering from Penn State (1997), and B.S. in Agricultural Engineering from IIT (1995). His research focuses on extrusion processing in food, pet food, and feed applications, with expertise in rheology, food microstructure imaging, and process sustainability. He leads global projects in Africa, Brazil, India, and beyond, emphasizing sustainable food technologies and AI-driven processing innovations. Dr. Alavi is a recipient of the 2010 Young Research Scientist Award from the Cereals & Grains Association. He teaches GRSC 620 (Intro to Extrusion Processing) and GRSC 820 (Advanced Extrusion Processing), and has trained over 1,000 industry leaders through his renowned 'Extrusion Processing: Technology and Commercialization' short course. His work bridges food science and engineering, addressing challenges in plant-based meat analogs, nutrient bioavailability, and food aid product development. Key facilities associated with his work include the BIVAP Feed Quality Assurance Lab and Hal Ross Flour Mill. His research spans sensory analysis of meat alternatives, fiber utilization in pet food, and sustainability assessments of novel crops like intermediate wheatgrass. Recent studies explore insect protein in pet food, AI-driven extrusion optimization, and iron bioavailability in fortified foods. Dr. Alavi’s contributions span academic, industrial, and global food security domains, reflecting a commitment to innovative, scalable food solutions.
Philippe Christe is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolution at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), Faculty of Biology and Medicine. His research centers on host-parasite interactions, with a focus on bats, birds, and their ectoparasites, integrating behavioral, physiological, and genetic approaches. He leads the Christe Group, which investigates evolutionary and ecological dynamics in host-parasite systems, particularly avian malaria and bat-mite relationships. He is actively involved in conservation initiatives, including the Jorat Peri-Urban Nature Park, and collaborates with KORA on human-wildlife interactions. Bachelor's degree in biology, UNIL (1989) PhD in Zoology and Animal Ecology, UNIL (1994) Philippe Christe’s research interests lie at the intersection of parasitology, evolutionary ecology, and conservation biology. He investigates how host defenses evolve in response to parasitic pressures, examining trade-offs between immunity and life history traits such as reproduction and survival. His work often integrates field studies with experimental and molecular techniques. Key model systems include Parus major (great tit) and Culex pipiens in avian malaria, and bat species with their ectoparasitic mites. He also explores broader ecological interactions, including predator-prey dynamics and wildlife conservation in human-modified landscapes. His recent publications reflect a strong emphasis on disease ecology, wildlife conservation, and molecular methods. Articles span topics such as avian malaria transmission, lynx population dynamics, snow leopard behavior, and habitat fragmentation effects on insects. These works employ advanced techniques like DNA metabarcoding, spatial modeling, and long-term monitoring, demonstrating a trend toward interdisciplinary, data-driven ecological research with direct conservation applications. Dubois Foundation Prize for an educational CD-Rom on bats (2004) Communication Award from the Faculty of Biology and Medicine of UNIL (2017) Philippe Christe has supervised numerous PhD and Master’s students, contributing significantly to training the next generation of ecologists and evolutionary biologists. His group collaborates widely with institutions such as the Museum of Zoology in Lausanne and KORA, and participates in large-scale conservation projects involving snow leopards, lynx, and bats. He has been involved in research grants related to host-parasite coevolution, wildlife monitoring, and conservation strategies. His leadership in establishing the Jorat Peri-Urban Nature Park and involvement in the UNIL Interdisciplinary Center for Mountain Research highlight his commitment to applied science and environmental stewardship. He leads the Christe Group, which conducts research on host-parasite coevolution, with a focus on bats and their ectoparasites, and birds affected by avian malaria. The group combines fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and molecular analyses, and includes post-docs, PhD students, and technical staff. Collaborations extend to researchers in Bern, Paris, and Spain, fostering an international and interdisciplinary research environment.
Anya L. Brown is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Evolution and Ecology at the University of California, Davis, based at the Bodega Marine Lab. Her research focuses on the community ecology of marine systems, particularly coral reefs, investigating how host-associated microbes and trait variation influence species resilience to stress, ecological interactions, and adaptive plasticity. Education: B.S. (Brown University, 2009), M.S. in Biology (California State University, Northridge, 2012), Ph.D. in Ecology (University of Georgia, 2018). Postdoctoral Experience: Ewel Postdoctoral Fellow in Tropical Ecology (University of Florida, 2018-2020); Postdoctoral Scholar in Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, 2020-2022). Her recent publications highlight microbial dynamics in coral reefs, antibiotic effects on reef microbiomes, and trait-mediated interactions. She emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining molecular tools with observational and experimental studies. The Brown Lab actively engages students in cross-system marine research, prioritizing inclusivity in scientific communities. Key trends in her work include understanding microbial responses to environmental stressors, coral disease mechanisms, and the role of extended phenotypes in reef ecology. These studies span tropical and temperate marine ecosystems, with implications for conservation and restoration. Scientific Awards: Hellman Fellowship 2024-25 Ewel Postdoctoral Fellowship in Tropical Ecology Dr. Brown's lab fosters research across coral reefs and local coastal systems, integrating ecological and microbial perspectives. She advocates for inclusive teaching and research practices while advancing microbial ecology frameworks in marine conservation.
Dr Thomas White is a Senior Lecturer and ARC Discovery Early Career Fellow at the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney. He leads the Sensory and Evolutionary Ecology (SEE) Lab, focusing on understanding how organisms gather and exchange information to solve ecological challenges. His research spans adaptive evolution, communication systems, and the ecological consequences of sensory interactions, with particular emphasis on insects and invertebrates. Current research themes include predator-prey deception (e.g., spider lures), pollinator behavior, and the ethics of invertebrate welfare. He coordinates courses such as LIFE4000 and BIOL2033, integrating field experiments, modeling, and meta-analysis. Notable awards include the ARC DECRA Fellowship and grants from the Hermon Slade Foundation. His lab actively collaborates on interdisciplinary projects, including software tools for color analysis (e.g., pavo package in R). Students advised include Georgie Brennan, Kristin Hubakk, and Rui Shi, exploring topics like pollination systems and spider communication. Key Projects: Nocturnal pollination resilience, invertebrate sociality, and defensive displays Grants: ARC DECRA (2020), Australia & Pacific Science Foundation (2024) Labs/Teams: Sensory and Evolutionary Ecology (SEE) Lab at University of Sydney
Ross Meentemeyer is a Professor and Director of the Center for Geospatial Analytics at North Carolina State University, affiliated with the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources in the College of Natural Resources. He holds a Ph.D. in Geography from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (2000) and a B.S. in Geography from the University of Georgia (1993). His research focuses on geospatial analytics, ecological forecasting, biological invasions, and forest health, with a strong emphasis on integrating geospatial data and modeling to address environmental challenges. Dr. Meentemeyer's work includes developing decision-support tools for pest management, climate adaptation, and land-use planning. Notable projects involve forecasting invasive species spread via international trade, creating open-source geospatial platforms, and modeling floodplain development risks. He collaborates extensively with federal agencies like USDA, DOI, and NPS to translate research into practical solutions. His grants include multi-million dollar NSF and USDA-funded initiatives addressing plant disease pandemics, agricultural pest threats, and geospatial infrastructure development. Key outcomes include the PAdb system for pandemic prediction and the FUTURES model for urbanization forecasting. He also leads efforts to enhance stakeholder engagement through participatory modeling tools like Tangible Landscape. Research contributions span 20+ years, with over 100 peer-reviewed articles on topics like viewscape modeling, river water dynamics, and wildfire-epidemic interactions. His work bridges ecological and social sciences, emphasizing actionable solutions for sustainable land management and climate resilience.
Mark S. Hoddle is a Professor of Entomology and Biological Control Specialist at the University of California, Riverside (UCR), where he has headed research in his laboratory since 1997. He serves as the Director of the Center for Invasive Species Research and is a Principal Investigator focusing on biological control of invasive pests. His work bridges academic research with practical applications for California agriculture. Education: D.Sc. Zoology (2018), University of Auckland, New Zealand Ph.D. Entomology (1996), University of Massachusetts, Amherst M.S. Zoology (1991), University of Auckland, New Zealand B.S. Zoology (1988), University of Auckland, New Zealand Dr. Hoddle specializes in biological control, the intentional use of host-specific natural enemies to suppress pest populations. His research focuses on identifying pest problems amenable to biological control, locating and releasing natural enemies, and evaluating their impact on pest population growth. He works extensively with invasive species affecting California agriculture, particularly pests of citrus, avocado, palm trees, and other crops. His approach combines field evaluations with laboratory studies of pest and natural enemy biology and behavior. Analysis of Dr. Hoddle's recent publications reveals a strong focus on invasive species threatening California agriculture, particularly the Asian citrus psyllid, red palm weevil, and brown marmorated stink bug. His research integrates field and laboratory approaches, with emphasis on phenology modeling, natural enemy evaluation, and innovative control methods. Much of his work addresses the economic and ecological impacts of invasive pests on specialty crops. Scientific Awards: Entomological Society of America, Pacific Branch Entomology Team Leader Award (2023) UC-ANR Distinguished Service Award for Outstanding Research (2022) Fellow, Entomological Society of America (2018) California Department of Pesticide Regulations IPM Achievement Award for Asian Citrus Psyllid Biocontrol (2018) IOBC Distinguished Scientist of the Year (2015) Multiple awards from the Entomological Society of America (2007, 2012, 2013, 2014) Dr. Hoddle has mentored numerous students and researchers throughout his career, including postdoctoral scholars and specialists who contribute to his laboratory's work on invasive species. His research has been supported by various granting agencies, private institutions, and commodity boards, enabling extensive international projects focused on identifying and implementing biological control solutions for invasive pests. He has facilitated the Harry Scott Smith Scholarship Fund to support graduate students in biological control. Dr. Hoddle directs the Center for Invasive Species Research at UCR and leads a productive laboratory team that includes postdoctoral scholars, specialists, and students. The lab conducts research on multiple invasive species threatening California agriculture and natural ecosystems, with particular emphasis on citrus, avocado, and palm tree pests. Current projects include proactive biological control of the spotted lanternfly and research on invasive palm weevils, avocado pests, and other emerging threats.
Ana Maria Velez is an Associate Professor at the Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her research focuses on insect responses to chemical stressors, particularly RNA interference (RNAi) and Bt toxins for pest management. With a 80% research and 20% teaching appointment, she leads the Insect Toxicology Lab and teaches courses like 'Toxins in the Environment' and 'Insecticide Toxicology.' Education: Ph.D. in Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2013 M.S. in Entomology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, 2009 B.S. in Biology, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia, 2006 Her research spans molecular, organismal, and population levels to evaluate transgenic crops and RNAi technologies. Key areas include resistance mechanisms, non-target effects, and risk assessment frameworks. She has extensive publications on western corn rootworm and fall armyworm, emphasizing sustainable pest control. Her work also addresses sublethal impacts on non-target species like monarch butterflies and honeybees. Recent articles highlight RNAi delivery optimization, Bt resistance dynamics, and ecological impacts of insecticides. Her lab collaborates on patents for RNAi-based pest suppression methods targeting chromatin remodeling and developmental genes. Scientific Awards Distinguished Multicultural Alumni (2019) DuPont Young Professor Award (2016) International Congress of Entomology Travel Awards (2016) Widaman Trust Distinguished Graduate Assistant (2011) Milton E. Mohr Teaching Fellowship (2012) The Vélez Arango Lab investigates durability and safety of insect control technologies, with emphasis on RNAi and Bt crops. Their work informs integrated pest management (IPM) systems and regulatory frameworks.
Prof. Dr. Susanne Foitzik is a Professor of Evolutionary Biology at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz since 2010, where she leads the Evolution & Behavioral Ecology of Ants research group at the Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution (IOME). Previously, she was Professor in Behavioral Ecology at LMU Munich (2004-2010) and Assistant Professor in Zoology at the University of Regensburg (2000-2004). She earned her PhD in Biology from Julius Maximilian University, Würzburg in 1998. Her research integrates approaches from behavioral ecology through genomics to epigenetics, focusing on ants as model organisms to study complex social behaviors. Host-parasite coevolution and social parasitism in ants Molecular mechanisms underlying division of labor Reversal of the fecundity-longevity trade-off in social insects Gene regulation in phenotypic plasticity Evolution of chemical communication systems Analysis of her recent publications (2022-2025) reveals a strong focus on molecular mechanisms of social behavior, with particular emphasis on host-parasite interactions, epigenetic regulation of behavior, and genomic adaptations in social insects. Her work increasingly combines transcriptomic, proteomic, and functional genomic approaches to understand the molecular basis of social evolution. Among her notable scientific achievements: Speaker of Research Training Group 2626 GenEvo: Gene Regulation in Evolution (2019-present) Speaker of EES Master Program funded by VW foundation (2007-2010) DAAD Fellow at State University of New York (1992-93) Prof. Foitzik has supervised numerous PhD students and postdocs, including Maide Macit, Tom Sistermans, and Marcel Caminer. Her research is supported by multiple DFG-funded projects investigating host-parasite coevolution, the role of gene regulation in division of labor, and parasite interference in host gene expression. She serves as Handling Editor for Biology Letters and previously served on the editorial board of Insectes Sociaux. Her research group operates within the Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution (IOME) at Mainz, with laboratory facilities at the Biozentrum I. The group collaborates extensively with researchers across Germany and internationally, including partnerships with institutions in Frankfurt, Freiburg, Bristol, and Tel Aviv.
Zsofia Szendrei is a Professor in the Department of Entomology at Michigan State University (MSU), affiliated with the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources. Her work spans teaching (10%), research (40%), and extension (50%), focusing on vegetable production entomology. She leads the Szendrei Lab, which explores chemical ecology, biological control, and sustainable pest management. Her research emphasizes reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides through integrated approaches like habitat manipulation and molecular detection of trophic interactions. She collaborates closely with growers and extension educators to implement practical solutions for vegetable pest challenges. Education: M.Sc. in Horticulture (Hungary, 2001), Ph.D. in Entomology (MSU, 2005). Professional roles include Co-Editor-in-Chief of American Entomologist (2021–present) and leadership in MSU's Extension programs. She prioritizes student mentorship, fostering creativity and hands-on research in a collaborative lab environment. Key research themes include agroecology, pest-behavioral interactions, and pollinator conservation. Her extension efforts target reducing insecticide use while maintaining crop profitability. Recent work investigates heatwave impacts on crop-pest dynamics and pollinator protection. She has authored/co-authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles, with a focus on topics like cover crops, pathogen management, and invasive species. Her lab’s findings inform both academic discourse and real-world agricultural practices.
Dr. Jason Gibbs is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Manitoba, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences. He also serves as the Curator of the J. B. Wallis / R. E. Roughley Museum of Entomology (WRME), a significant center for the study of bee biodiversity. His work is central to advancing knowledge in wild bee systematics, phylogenetics, and conservation. PhD in Biology, York University, Canada MSc in Botany, University of Toronto, Canada BSc in Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Canada His research focuses on the diversity, taxonomy, and conservation of wild bees , particularly halictid and panurgine bees. He employs integrative taxonomic approaches , combining morphological, molecular, and ecological data to resolve species boundaries and evolutionary relationships. His work extends to pollinator ecology , examining how habitat management, agricultural practices, and landscape changes affect bee communities and pollination services. He is deeply involved in bee conservation , including the rediscovery of rare species and the development of habitat strategies to support pollinators in human-modified landscapes. The trends in his recent publications reveal a strong emphasis on systematics and alpha-taxonomy , with numerous revisions of bee genera and checklists of regional faunas. He frequently uses DNA barcoding and phylogenomics to address taxonomic challenges. Additionally, his work explores pollination dynamics in agricultural systems , particularly in blueberry and other crops, assessing the roles of wild versus managed bees. There is a consistent theme of habitat enhancement and conservation across his research, with studies on floral strips, prairie restoration, and the impacts of land-use change. Dr. Gibbs is actively involved in mentoring and training the next generation of entomologists. His lab includes several graduate students and highly qualified personnel who contribute to his diverse research projects, as indicated by the asterisked names in his publications. He leads the Gibbs Wild Bee Lab, which is dedicated to understanding bee diversity and evolution. The lab combines field research with molecular and morphological analyses, and maintains close ties with the WRME museum, which serves as a vital resource for specimen-based research and education.
Professor Dieter Hochuli leads the Integrative Ecology research group in the School of Life and Environmental Sciences at the University of Sydney. His research focuses on biodiversity conservation in urban environments, with particular emphasis on arthropod ecology, habitat management, and the ecological dynamics of human-dominated landscapes. His work bridges community ecology and landscape-scale conservation strategies. Research interests center on urban biodiversity conservation, insect-plant interactions, ecosystem function in modified environments, and the ecological impacts of invasive species. Current projects examine how urban planning decisions affect biodiversity, the role of green infrastructure in supporting ecosystem services, and human-wildlife interactions in urban fringes. Analysis of recent publications reveals consistent themes: urban pollinator ecology, wildlife disease ecology at the urban interface, experimental approaches to urban green space management, and biodiversity responses to urbanization. His work integrates ecological theory with practical conservation applications. Professor Hochuli leads field-based ecology projects across Sydney's urban environments and collaborates with local councils on biodiversity mapping initiatives. He currently supervises graduate students researching urban arthropod communities, wildlife conservation, and ecosystem restoration.
Katrine Eldegard is a Professor at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management (MINA), Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management (INA). She leads BatLab Norway and contributes extensively to national and international conservation science policy. Institution: Norwegian University of Life Sciences School: Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management Department: Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management Position: Professor Her research centers on understanding how human activities and land use affect natural ecosystems and species across taxa and spatial scales. She specializes in the behavioral, population, and community-level responses of mammals, birds, and insects to anthropogenic pressures such as energy infrastructure, transport networks, and forestry. A major focus is on bat ecology and conservation, pollination dynamics, and biodiversity monitoring in boreal and agricultural landscapes. Her recent publications reveal strong trends in climate change impacts on bat morphology and distribution, pollinator-plant interactions under environmental change, and the ecological consequences of infrastructure development. These works integrate field ecology with advanced modeling and policy-relevant assessments. She has played leading roles in key scientific committees: Chair, Mammal Committee, Norwegian Red List for Species (2021) Chair, Mammal Committee, Norwegian Alien Species List (2023) Member, Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM), CITES Expert Panel Norway’s representative, UNEP/Eurobats Advisory Committee Eldegard has supervised numerous research projects and collaborated with government agencies and private partners on applied ecology. She teaches courses including NATF200 Vern og forvaltning av norsk natur and the upcoming NATF300 Conservation Science. Her work is supported by extensive fieldwork, interdisciplinary collaboration, and integration of ecological theory with practical conservation. She leads BatLab Norway, a research group dedicated to advancing knowledge on bat ecology, behavior, and conservation through innovative methods including telemetry, acoustic monitoring, and landscape analysis.
