Régis Pomès is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Toronto, where he leads an active research program since 1999. His work focuses on computational biophysics, studying the structure-dynamics-function relationships of biomolecules. Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Physical Chemistry (2001-2011) Teaches courses: BCH 2107H: Introduction to Biomolecular Simulations BCH 2105H: Cystic Fibrosis: The Cause, The Treatment BCH 2024H: Introduction to Biomolecular Simulations JBB2026H: Protein Structure, Folding and Design BCH473Y: Advanced Research Project in Biochemistry BCH422H: Membrane Proteins: Structure and Function Research Interests: The Pomès Lab specializes in computational methods development and their application to biomolecular systems, particularly: Membrane proteins and ion channels Protein-lipid interactions Protein folding and aggregation Statistical mechanics of biomolecular systems Molecular dynamics simulations across multiple scales Structural biology of disordered proteins Awards: Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Physical Chemistry (2001-2011)
Dr. Frank Hennrich is a Project Leader at the Institute of Nanotechnology (INT), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany, within the Research Unit for Physical Chemistry of Nanoscale Systems. His research focuses on the synthesis, separation, and functionalization of carbon nanotubes and related nanomaterials. His primary research interests include nanomaterials, particularly carbon nanotubes and fullerenes, with an emphasis on their physical chemistry, spectroscopic characterization, and optoelectronic properties. His work spans synthesis, separation techniques, defect engineering, and applications in photonics and electronics. Recent publications highlight investigations into electroluminescence from quantum-defect-engineered nanotubes, ion mobility of metalated complexes and superatoms, and advanced separation methods for nanotubes. The trend in his recent publications shows a strong focus on the fundamental physical and chemical properties of low-dimensional carbon materials. His work integrates advanced spectroscopic and separation techniques such as trapped ion mobility spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, and dielectrophoresis to understand and manipulate nanotube chirality, electronic type, and defect states. There is a clear trajectory toward optoelectronic applications, particularly in quantum light sources and integrated photonic devices operating in the telecom band. Dr. Hennrich has not been mentioned to have received any specific scientific awards in the provided text. He has collaborated extensively with leading researchers such as R. Krupke, M. M. Kappes, P. Weis, and others across numerous publications, indicating a strong network in the nanomaterials research community. While no specific grants are listed, his sustained publication record in high-impact journals suggests ongoing research funding. He has contributed significantly to the development of methods for sorting and functionalizing carbon nanotubes, which are foundational for their technological applications. His research is conducted within the Institute of Nanotechnology at KIT, a prominent institution for nanomaterials research, where he leads a group focused on the physical chemistry of nanoscale systems, particularly carbon-based nanostructures.
Masatoshi Takano is a Professor at the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, specializing in theoretical studies of nuclear physics, particle physics, and astrophysics. His work focuses on nuclear equations of state (EOS) for neutron stars and core-collapse supernovae, incorporating realistic nuclear forces like the Argonne v18 and Urbana IX potentials. He has developed variational methods with explicit energy functionals to model hyperonic nuclear matter, spin-orbit forces, and finite-temperature effects. Education : PhD in Science, Waseda University Professional Memberships : American Physical Society, Japan Physical Society Research spans neutron star structure, supernova simulations, and nuclear matter phase transitions. His recent presentations address neutrino emission rates, braking radiation in nuclear matter, and cluster variational methods. Key collaborations include H. Togashi, K. Nakazato, and K. Sumiyoshi. Scientific contributions involve refining variational energy expressions for asymmetric nuclear matter, incorporating three-body forces, and studying pion condensation effects on neutron star cooling. He has applied his EOS models to multidimensional supernova simulations and cosmic ray detector design.
Michael Grabe is a Professor in the Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI) at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF). He holds a joint appointment in the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry. His work focuses on computational methods to study biological phenomena, particularly ion transport across membranes and the molecular mechanisms of ion channels/transporters. He has pioneered theoretical approaches to understand membrane protein function and organelle acidity regulation. Education: PhD in Physics, University of California, Berkeley (2002) ScB in Mathematics-Physics, Brown University (1996) Research Interests: Dr. Grabe’s lab investigates ion channel function, membrane remodeling by TMEM16 proteins, lysosomal pH regulation, and computational modeling of membrane-associated processes. Key themes include: Mechanics of ion transport and lipid flipping Protein-induced membrane deformations Simulations of organelle microphysiology Development of computational tools for membrane protein analysis Recent Research Trends: Recent work emphasizes dynamic protein design using AI (e.g., Science 2025), structural studies of K2P channels, and functional insights into TMEM16 scramblases. His team also explores SARS-CoV-2 protein interactions and mitochondrial uncoupling mechanisms. Awards: NSF CAREER Award (2009-2014) Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship (2009-2011) Shining Star Community Service Award (2012) Grants & Advising: Principal Investigator of NIH grants studying TMEM16 proteins (R01GM137109) and lysosomal physiology (R21GM100224). His lab trains graduate students and postdocs in computational biophysics and membrane biology. Labs/Teams: Leads the Grabe Lab at UCSF, which collaborates with experimental groups to bridge theory and experiment in membrane systems. Active in developing open-source tools like APBSmem for electrostatic calculations.
Dr. Hermann Cuntz is an Independent Group Leader at the Ernst Strüngmann Institute (ESI) for Neuroscience in cooperation with the Max Planck Society. He is also a Research Fellow at the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (FIAS) since 2014 and affiliated with the Goethe University Frankfurt via the Institute of Clinical Neuroanatomy . His email address is hermann.neuro@gmail.com , and he is based in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Research Focus: Dr. Cuntz investigates principles of neuronal wiring, aiming to decode the "connection code" of the brain. His work bridges morphology and function using computational tools, mathematical laws, and morphological modeling. Key areas include dendritic constancy , structural plasticity , connectomics , and neuroinformatics , with applications in understanding neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Education: PhD from the University of California at Berkeley and Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology (2000-2004). Diploma in biology from Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen (1994-2000). Recent Publications highlight research trends in dendritic structure, pattern separation, synaptic spine distribution, and cortical folding. His lab develops the TREES Toolbox , a MATLAB-based framework for neuronal morphology analysis. Scientific Awards: Bernstein Award (2013-2019) DFG Eigene Stelle (2014-2016) Feodor Lynen Fellowship (Alexander von Humboldt, 2006-2008) Minerva Fellowship (2004-2005) Wellcome Image Award (2011) 1st Prize Poster Competition, UCL Neuroscience Symposium (2010) Advising and Grants: Dr. Cuntz mentors numerous PhD and Master’s students, including Marcel Beining , Mariuss Schneider , and Marvin Weigand . His lab receives funding from the DFG , Bernstein Award , and collaborations with institutions like the 3R-Center Giessen and Interdisciplinary Centre for 3Rs (ICAR3R) . Labs and Collaborations: The Cuntz Lab specializes in computational neuroanatomy, with alumni working globally in academia and industry. Key collaborators include Prof. Peter Jedlicka (Justus Liebig University), Prof. Gaia Tavosanis (DZNE Bonn), and Prof. Alexander Borst (MPI Neurobiology).
Fabrizio Marinelli is an Associate Professor of Biophysics and Data Science at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), effective July 2025, and holds an adjunct senior investigator position at the Versiti Blood Research Institute. He previously served as a staff scientist at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI/NIH) and conducted postdoctoral research at the Max Planck Institute of Biophysics and NIH. Educational background includes a PhD in Statistical and Biological Physics from the International School for Advanced Studies (Trieste, Italy), an MS in Chemistry from La Sapienza University (Rome), and postdoctoral training in molecular biophysics. His research focuses on computational modeling of molecular mechanisms in membrane transport, signaling, and morphological changes, integrating advanced simulation techniques with experimental data (e.g., EPR/DEER, HDX-MS, cryo-EM). Key methodologies include enhanced sampling methods, free-energy calculations, and machine learning. Research highlights include elucidating mechanisms of Na+/Ca2+ exchangers, ion selectivity in lysosomal K+ channels, and structural interpretation of DEER and HDX data. He leads the Biophysics Graduate Program’s recruitment efforts and actively collaborates with experimental labs to bridge theory and experiment. Lab members include postdocs William Brown and Sandra Byju, and graduate student Tyler Trask. Publications emphasize computational tools (e.g., PLUMED, Colvars library) and reproducibility in molecular simulations. His work aims to advance therapies for infectious diseases, drug resistance, and cancer through mechanistic insights into proteins and membranes.
Cam Ha Tran is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physiology and Cell Biology at the University of Nevada, Reno, affiliated with the Institute of Neuroscience. Her research focuses on neurovascular unit interactions, particularly how blood flow regulation impacts brain function under health and disease conditions such as stroke and dementia. She employs advanced techniques like two-photon imaging, optogenetics, and electrophysiology to study astrocyte-endothelial communication and vascular reactivity. Education: PhD in Cardiovascular and Respiratory Sciences from the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary (Canada); Master of Biomedical Technology and Bachelor of Science from the University of Alberta (Canada). Research emphasizes understanding how astrocytes and endothelial cells coordinate to maintain cerebral blood flow, with implications for neurological disorders. Her recent work explores TRPA1 channels in neurovascular coupling, astrocyte dysfunction in Alzheimer’s, and seizure-induced vascular changes. Techniques include in vivo imaging and chemogenetic approaches to dissect cellular mechanisms. Key contributions include uncovering astrocyte roles in functional hyperemia and identifying therapeutic targets for cerebrovascular diseases. Her lab’s findings bridge basic science and clinical applications, aiming to improve diagnostics and treatments for stroke and neurodegenerative conditions.
Prof. Dr. Karin Schumacher is a Professor of Plant Developmental Biology at Heidelberg University and currently serves as Vice-Rector for Quality Development and Sustainability. Her research focuses on plant cell biology, particularly vacuole dynamics, ion homeostasis, and membrane trafficking in Arabidopsis. She leads the Cell Biology Research Group at the Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) and has held leadership roles such as Dean of the Faculty of Biosciences. Her work integrates computational modeling with experimental approaches to study plant growth and stress responses. Dr. Schumacher's academic career includes a Doctorate from the University of Cologne and a Habilitation from the University of Tübingen. She has held professorial positions since 2007 and contributed to advancements in understanding plant membrane systems, including V-ATPase function and calcium signaling. Her research publications emphasize vacuolar ion transport, autophagy mechanisms, and plant stress physiology. Her administrative roles include enhancing early career researcher support and promoting sustainability in university operations. She is an active member of scientific societies like the German Botanical Society and serves on editorial boards such as Plant Cell . Her interdisciplinary work bridges cell biology, molecular genetics, and systems-level plant physiology.
Rainer Böckmann is a Professor of Computational Biology in the Department of Biology at Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Germany, where he leads the Group for Theoretical and Computational Membrane Biophysics. His research integrates molecular dynamics simulations with biophysical analysis to study membrane structure, dynamics, and function. Research Interests: His work focuses on computational biophysics, particularly lipid bilayers, membrane proteins, molecular dynamics, and structural bioinformatics. He investigates how lipid composition, cholesterol, and embedded peptides influence membrane organization, curvature, and permeability, with applications in antimicrobial strategies and mRNA vaccine delivery systems. Recent Research Trends: His recent publications reflect a strong emphasis on lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), particularly their phase behavior, pH-dependent protonation, and structural transitions relevant to mRNA vaccines. He also explores antimicrobial peptides, membrane domain formation, and the role of cholesterol in modulating membrane properties. His group develops and applies advanced simulation techniques, including constant-pH MD and coarse-grained modeling. Member of Editorial Board, Biophysical Journal (2024–present) Elected Member, DFG Review Board for Biophysics (2020–present) Chairman, Molecular Biophysics Section, German Biophysical Society (2011–2012) Leadership and Service: Böckmann is actively involved in academic governance, serving on editorial boards, DFG committees, and as a guest editor for special issues in Frontiers journals. He contributes to graduate education and high-performance computing initiatives at FAU, including the NHR@FAU and Life@FAU Graduate School. He has organized major conferences and workshops in biophysics and membrane modeling. Laboratory and Collaboration: He leads a research group focused on biomembrane physics, collaborating with experimentalists and theorists. His lab develops and applies simulation tools to study membrane systems, bridging computational insights with biological function.
Dr. Kang Liang is a Scientia Associate Professor at the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), specifically within the School of Chemical Engineering. He leads the Nano-Micro-Bio Systems research group and serves as Co-Chair of the Australian Synchrotron Program Advisory Committee for SAXS/WAXS and BioSAXS. His research focuses on the intersection of nanotechnology, biocatalysis, and materials science, with particular expertise in metal-organic frameworks and their applications in biomedical and environmental contexts. Dr. Liang's research interests center around interfacial engineering of nanostructured materials, NanoBionics, biomimetics and biomineralization, and smart nano-micro-bio systems. His work explores how nanomaterials can interface with biological systems to create innovative solutions for healthcare, environmental monitoring, and energy applications. He has made significant contributions to the field of biocatalytic metal-organic frameworks, demonstrating their potential in drug delivery, cytoprotection, and cell manipulation. His publication record shows a strong focus on developing advanced nanomaterials with applications spanning from environmental remediation (water purification, contaminant removal) to biomedical applications (drug delivery, biosensing, cancer treatment). The trends in his recent publications indicate increasing sophistication in the design of nanomotors and nanoswimmers, with growing emphasis on precision targeting, multi-functionality, and integration with biological systems. Victoria Fellowship in Physical Sciences (2017) Fellow of the Australian Royal Chemical Institute (FRACI) Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC, UK) NHMRC Career Development Fellow (2019-2022) ARC Future Fellow (2023-2027) Dr. Liang actively mentors PhD and MPhil students through his research group and encourages highly motivated candidates to join his team. His research is supported by significant funding including his current ARC Future Fellowship (2023-2027). His work bridges chemical engineering, materials science, and biomedical applications, creating a unique interdisciplinary approach to solving complex problems in healthcare and environmental sustainability. His laboratory focuses on developing innovative nanomaterial platforms that interface with biological systems, with particular emphasis on creating responsive and adaptive systems that can perform specific functions when triggered by environmental conditions. The group's work represents a cutting-edge intersection of nanotechnology, bioengineering, and materials science.
PD Dr. Michael Veit is an Associate Professor (Privatdozent) at the Institute of Virology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin , where he heads the independent Research Group Veit – Cell Biology of Viral Infections . He is a faculty member of the Center for Infection Medicine and participates in the Berlin Equine Virus Lab (BEVL). Education & Training Doctorate (Dr. rer. nat.) in Virology/Biochemistry – exact institution not stated in text. Post-doctoral qualification (Privatdozent) awarded by Freie Universität Berlin. Research Focus Veit’s laboratory investigates the molecular and cellular biology of enveloped RNA viruses , with emphasis on virus–host membrane interactions and post-translational lipid modifications (S-acylation/palmitoylation). His group combines reverse genetics, live-cell imaging, mass spectrometry and structural approaches to dissect how viral glycoproteins are modified, trafficked and assembled into infectious particles. Model pathogens include influenza A, B, C and D viruses, coronaviruses (SARS-CoV-2, MERS-like CoVs, PHEV, PDCoV), arteriviruses (PRRSV, EAV), alphaviruses (Getah, CHIKV-like), and other emerging zoonotic agents. Publication Trends From 2020 to 2025 Veit has published >30 high-impact articles that cluster around four major themes: (i) coronavirus surveillance and zoonotic risk assessment , (ii) mechanistic dissection of protein acylation in influenza and arteriviruses , (iii) structure-function analysis of viral entry receptors (ACE2, LDLR), and (iv) development of reverse-genetic tools and reporter viruses for antiviral screening. Grants & Collaborative Networks Ongoing third-party funded projects coordinated by Veit are not explicitly listed in the text, but the continuous publication output and mention of “Current Collaborations” imply active grant support. He collaborates closely with other FU Berlin groups (Osterrieder, Kaufer, Azab) and international partners on coronavirus and influenza consortia. Laboratory & Teams The Research Group Veit comprises post-docs, PhD students and technicians working in BSL-2 and BSL-3 facilities at the Institute of Virology. Core platforms include confocal & FLIM microscopy, quantitative proteomics, and reverse-genetics suites for segmented RNA viruses.
Claudia Crocini is a DZHK junior research group leader at the Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin. Her work bridges cardiac physiology, epigenetics, and sex-specific medicine to address critical gaps in cardiovascular research where female hearts have been historically neglected. Her research program centers on sex-dependent differences in human cardiac cells, investigating how biological sex influences contractility, ionic currents, gene expression, and epigenetic regulation. By leveraging induced pluripotent stem cell technology, tissue engineering, and computational modeling, her lab identifies fundamental mechanisms underlying sex-specific cardiac responses to disease. This approach integrates cardiac mechanobiology with molecular analysis to uncover targets for precision medicine. Analysis of her publication record reveals a consistent trajectory toward understanding sex-dimorphic cardiac function, with recent work emphasizing sarcomere mechanics, RNA splicing, and nuclear mechanosensing. Her methodology combines voltage/calcium imaging, contractility assays, and next-generation sequencing to establish sex-specific biomarkers and therapeutic pathways. Dr. Crocini's scientific contributions have been recognized through competitive awards: First prize: Best Postdoc at the MDC (2022) Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship for 'TiGER: Titin can govern epigenetic remodelling' (2021) American Heart Association Postdoc Fellowship (2020) Biophysical Society Travel Award (2020) HSFP Long-Term Fellowship (2017) As principal investigator of her DZHK-funded research group, she directs projects examining sex-dependent cardiac adaptation mechanisms while securing major grants including the Marie Skłodowska-Curie and American Heart Association fellowships. Her work directly addresses the urgent need for sex-inclusive cardiac research to improve clinical outcomes. The Crocini Lab operates within the Max Rubner Center, utilizing stem cell differentiation platforms, engineered cardiac tissues, and advanced imaging to dissect sex-specific cardiac physiology. Current projects focus on translating cellular findings into clinically relevant insights for sex-tailored cardiovascular therapies.
Sara Liin is a Senior Associate Professor at Linköping University, affiliated with the Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences within the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Her research focuses on ion channel dysfunction in cardiac arrhythmias, particularly exploring polyunsaturated fatty acids and endocannabinoids as therapeutic avenues. She holds a PhD in Neurobiology (2011) and a Master in Medical Biology (2005). Her work emphasizes understanding how genetic mutations in cardiac ion channels lead to arrhythmias and developing targeted treatments. Recent studies highlight the role of estrogen in exacerbating arrhythmia risk and the potential of endocannabinoids like ARA-S to rescue mutant channels. Liin has secured grants totaling SEK 64 million and leads a research group investigating lipid-channel interactions and drug development strategies. Key achievements include the Eric K Fernström award (2021) and collaborative projects with institutions like the University of Miami and SciLifeLab. Her lab, part of the Division of Cell and Neurobiology, explores translational applications of ion channel research to combat heart rhythm disorders.
Professor Samuel Fountain is a leading academic in pharmacology at the University of East Anglia, where he serves as Chair of Pharmacology within the School of Biological Sciences. He holds additional leadership roles as Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the UEA Doctoral College and has previously served as Associate Dean for Postgraduate Research and Director of the Biomedical Research Centre. He is actively supervising multiple PhD students and securing major research funding. BSc (Hons) Pharmacology, University of Leeds (1997–2000) MRC-funded PhD, University of Leeds (2000–2004) Wellcome Trust Research Associate, University of Manchester (2004–2008) BBSRC David Phillips Fellow, University of Leeds (2008–2010) Lecturer to Professor of Pharmacology, University of East Anglia (2010–present) His research focuses on the role of ion channels—particularly P2X receptors—in vascular and adipose tissues, with implications for cardiometabolic diseases. His work integrates pharmacology, physiology, and molecular biology to understand neurovascular and neuroadipose communication, receptor-ligand interactions, and drug discovery. He employs techniques such as pressure myography, patch-clamp electrophysiology, calcium imaging, and molecular modelling. The analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on purinergic signalling, ion channel pharmacology, and autonomic control of blood vessels and fat tissue. His work bridges basic science with translational applications, particularly in hypertension, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Collaborations with AstraZeneca, Merck, and the British Heart Foundation underscore the clinical and pharmaceutical relevance of his research. Notable scientific recognition includes the prestigious BBSRC David Phillips Fellowship. He also contributes to the academic community through editorial roles, including as Editor of Purinergic Signalling , and as a member of the British Pharmacological Society and The Physiological Society. Professor Fountain actively mentors postdoctoral researchers and PhD students, several of whom are funded by BBSRC, BHF, and AstraZeneca iCASE awards. His lab is supported by significant grants from the British Heart Foundation, BBSRC, and industry partners, enabling cutting-edge research in vascular and metabolic pharmacology. He leads multiple active projects on neurovascular transmission, purinergic control, and drug discovery for P2X receptors. His research group operates within the Cells and Tissues research theme at UEA and utilizes advanced experimental platforms including human tissue studies, high-throughput screening, and computational ligand docking. The lab fosters interdisciplinary collaboration between pharmacologists, physiologists, and clinicians, positioning it at the forefront of autonomic and metabolic research.
David Drew is a Professor of Biochemistry at Stockholm University, affiliated with the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics at SciLifeLab. His research focuses on the structure and mechanism of solute transporters, particularly their roles in diseases like cancer and diabetes. Department: Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics Location: Room 6162, SciLifeLab, Solna, Sweden The Drew group employs crystallography and cryo-EM to investigate alternating-access mechanisms in solute transporters, aiming to bridge structural and functional gaps in membrane protein research. Their work has implications for drug development and understanding cellular homeostasis. Recent publications highlight advancements in transporter dynamics, lipid interactions, and disease-specific mechanisms. Trends show a focus on structural biology, membrane protein function, and therapeutic targeting of transport systems. Funding: Göran Gustaffson Foundation, Swedish Research Council, Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, The Cancer Foundation Current group: 6 postdocs, 2 PhD students
