Zijian Liu is a researcher affiliated with New York University (School of Business) , University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (School of Information and Communication Engineering) , and other institutions. He specializes in Machine Learning and Non-Convex Optimization , with a focus on Stochastic Gradient Descent and Variance Reduction techniques. His publications (e.g., ICLR 2025, ICML 2024, COLT 2023) address theoretical advancements in optimization under Heavy-Tailed Noise , Non-Asymptotic Convergence , and Shuffling Gradient Methods . He has collaborated extensively with researchers like Zhengyuan Zhou , Alina Ene , and Huy L. Nguyen . His research trends highlight Stochastic Optimization and Machine Learning Theory , particularly in handling noisy and non-convex problems. He has no documented scientific awards or advisees listed in available records.
Michael Strauss is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, joining in 2025. He holds a B.S. in Biochemistry from Winona State University (2016), a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Northwestern University (2021), and completed postdoctoral research at MIT (2022–2025). His research focuses on synthetic methods development and polymer science , with a goal of achieving unprecedented control over polymer microstructure to engineer emergent material properties. Key areas include catalyst design, environmental remediation of plastic waste, and application-based materials design. His research group (SRG) emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, training students in synthetic, organometallic, physical organic, polymer, and materials chemistry. Strauss has received prestigious awards, including the NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein Postdoctoral Fellowship and NSF Graduate Research Fellowship. Current projects aim to develop novel synthetic tools for polymer synthesis and functionalization, with applications in energy storage, separation science, and optoelectronics. Education: B.S., Winona State University (2016) Ph.D., Northwestern University (2021) Postdoc, MIT (2022–2025) Awards: National Institutes of Health Ruth L. Kirschstein Postdoctoral Fellowship NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Edmund W. Gelewitz Award Labs/Teams: Strauss Research Group (SRG), focusing on 2D polymers and catalytic methodologies. Future work includes expanding applications of self-assembled nanotubes and exploring sustainable polymer design strategies.
Claudio Llosa Isenrich is an Assistant Professor in the Institute of Algebra and Geometry at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), leading a young research group in Complex Geometry and Geometric Group Theory since October 2020. His work bridges algebraic and geometric methods, with a focus on Kähler groups, finiteness properties, and Dehn functions. His research explores the interplay between Geometric Group Theory and Complex Geometry, particularly the study of fundamental groups of compact Kähler manifolds, constructions of Kähler manifolds, large-scale geometry of nilpotent groups, and rigidity properties of mapping class groups. He also investigates Dehn functions, finiteness properties, and subgroups of hyperbolic groups. His recent preprints and publications emphasize Dehn functions of subgroups, profinite rigidity of Kähler groups, and geometric properties of CAT(0) groups. He has received significant funding, including a Lise Meitner Postdoctoral Fellowship and the KIT Faculty Prize for Excellent Teaching, and has organized seminars and workshops like the GCD Seminar and Geometry Days with Heidelberg and Straßburg. His advisees include PhD student Jannis Weis and former PhD student Jeronimo Garcia Mejia, now at the University of Oxford.
Nicholas Zorko, MD, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Minnesota. His work centers on advancing NK cell-based immunotherapies for prostate and other solid tumors, with a focus on B7-H3 and PSMA-targeted tri-specific killer engagers (TriKEs). Research Interests Targeting B7-H3 and PSMA in prostate cancer immunotherapy Enhancing NK cell function in "cold" tumor microenvironments Development of off-the-shelf CAR NK cell therapies Investigating HLA class I expression and immune evasion mechanisms Scientific Contributions The 15 most recent publications (2025-2023) demonstrate expertise in tumor immunology, tri-specific antibody engineering, and pan-cancer therapeutic strategies. Key trends include optimizing radioligand therapy for prostate cancer, characterizing immune cell infiltration in solid tumors, and addressing adverse events in T-cell and NK cell therapies.
Adrien Morin is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, supervised by Fabien Pazuki. He earned his PhD at Université de Bordeaux under Baptiste Morin's guidance. Research Focus: Weil-étale cohomology, a conjectural integral cohomology framework derived from étale motivic cohomology, primarily aimed at establishing connections with special values of zeta functions. Contact: Office 04.2.01, Universitetsparken 5, 2100 Copenhagen Ø; email admo@math.ku.dk , phone +45 35 33 63 54.
Stephan Ramon Garcia is the W.M. Keck Distinguished Service Professor and Professor of Mathematics and Statistics at Pomona College, part of The Claremont Colleges. He has been affiliated with Pomona since 2006 and holds a Ph.D. (2003) and B.A. (1997) in Mathematics from the University of California, Berkeley. His research focuses on operator theory, complex analysis, matrix analysis, number theory, analytic combinatorics, and discrete geometry. Garcia has authored over 120 research articles and five books, many with undergraduate coauthors. He has secured multiple NSF grants and serves on editorial boards of prominent journals. Research Highlights: Garcia’s work bridges pure and applied mathematics. Notable contributions include studies on complex symmetric operators, matrix norms, and factorization in numerical semigroups. His recent books include Operator Theory by Example (Oxford, 2023) and Matrix Mathematics: A Second Course in Linear Algebra (Cambridge, 2023). He has been recognized with the AMS Dolciani Prize (2019) and ILAS Hans Schneider Lectureship (2023). Grants & Leadership: Garcia has led NSF grants totaling over $500,000, including his latest 2025 RUI grant. He served as Department Chair from 2022 to 2025 and currently chairs the AWM Nominating Committee. His mentorship is evident through collaborative projects with students like Elena Kim ’21 and Gabe Udell ’21. Publications & Outreach: Garcia’s recent papers explore Frobenius norms, Artin L-functions, and matrix powers. He frequently lectures at international conferences and initiated programs like the Mentoring Math Minds lecture series. His work emphasizes undergraduate research, with over 50 student coauthored papers.
Steven L. Regen is a University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Lehigh University, located in Sinclair Lab, Room 304B. His research focuses on supramolecular chemistry applied to materials science, biology, and medicine, particularly through the study of lipids, membranes, and Langmuir-Blodgett films. He can be reached at slr0@lehigh.edu or (610) 758-4842. Research Interests: Lipids and Membranes Drug Delivery and Design Supramolecular Chemistry Molecular Assembly Recent Research Trends: His recent publications (2017-2019) highlight work on lipid raft formation, CO2/N2 separation membranes, and layer-by-layer assembly techniques applied to both biological systems and environmental technologies. Contact: Office location: Sinclair Lab, Room 304B.
Arlin Blood is an Associate Professor at the School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, with cross-appointments in the Pharmacology Division, Pediatric Neonatology Division, and Gynecology and Obstetrics. He holds a PhD from Loma Linda University (2003) and a BS (1995), with research centered on perinatal cardiovascular physiology. PhD, Loma Linda University, 2003 BS, 1995 His research focuses on the physiological responses to hypoxia in fetal and newborn models, particularly investigating pulmonary hypertension, cerebral blood flow regulation, and the roles of gasotransmitters such as nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide. Using lamb and rodent models, his work bridges molecular mechanisms with systemic cardiovascular outcomes. Recent publications (2024–2025) highlight sustained research activity in hypoxia-induced vascular dysfunction, microRNA regulation, and novel signaling pathways involving L-type calcium channels and nitrite metabolism. His work frequently appears in high-impact physiology and medical journals, indicating strong translational relevance. No scientific awards explicitly mentioned Dr. Blood has co-authored over 128 research outputs, including articles and reviews, primarily in collaboration with researchers at the Center for Perinatal Biology. While specific grant funding is not detailed, his consistent publication record suggests active research support. He advises or mentors students indirectly through collaborative research, though no formal advisees are listed. His work is strongly associated with the Center for Perinatal Biology at Loma Linda University, a leading institution in fetal and neonatal physiology research, where he contributes to multidisciplinary teams studying developmental cardiovascular adaptation.
Michelle Bonaventura, MOT, OTR/L, is a Consultant Lecturer in the College of Health Sciences at Chatham University (Pittsburgh, PA). She joined the faculty in February 2024 and focuses on academic fieldwork and capstone coordination. Education Master of Occupational Therapy, Chatham University (2017) Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy, Slippery Rock University (2011) Her research interests span pediatric development, functional and neuro-developmental rehabilitation, hand and upper extremity rehabilitation, environmental modification, community accessibility, and assistive technology. Professional affiliations include membership in the Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association (POTA) and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
Christine Daeschner, OTD, OTR/L serves as Doctoral Capstone Coordinator and Visiting Assistant Professor at Chatham University's College of Health Sciences since 2023. With over two decades of clinical experience spanning acute care, subacute care, home health, and home modification, she bridges practical expertise with academic instruction. Doctor of Occupational Therapy (Chatham University) Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (Gannon University) Bachelor of Science (Gannon University) Her academic focus centers on evidence-based practice , aging in place through home modifications, and healthcare advocacy for underserved populations. She specializes in legislative engagement and leadership development for occupational therapy professionals. Her scholarly work reveals consistent exploration of: Home modification strategies for elderly populations Legislative impacts on occupational therapy practice Advocacy frameworks in healthcare delivery Environmental assessment methodologies Policy implications for underserved communities Home health service validation Active in the Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association, she has delivered 13 conference presentations between 2012-2022 addressing legislative updates, home health interventions, and aging-related practice models.
George L. Gorse is the Viola Horton Professor of Art and Professor of Art History at Pomona College, where he has been a faculty member since 1980. He is on leave for the 2025–2026 academic year. His work bridges medieval and Renaissance studies with modern architectural sustainability, focusing on urbanism in Genoa from the 11th to 16th centuries. Education: Ph.D., Brown University Master of Arts, Brown University Bachelor of Arts, The Johns Hopkins University His research explores the architecture and urban development of Genoa, particularly the roles of noble families, palaces, gardens, and civic pageantry. He investigates how urban spaces reflect political power, social hierarchy, and cultural identity, with a special interest in the Strada Nuova and triumphal entries. His interdisciplinary approach connects historical urbanism with contemporary issues in sustainability and modern architecture. The recent publications highlight a consistent focus on Renaissance Genoa, political iconography, and the interplay between architecture and power. His work spans from detailed studies of portraiture and court symbolism to broad analyses of urban typology and civic identity, reflecting a deep engagement with both visual culture and spatial politics. Scientific Awards and Honors: Bogliasco Institute, Genoa, Italy – Visiting Fellow (2001, 2018) National Endowment for the Humanities – Summer Seminars (1998, 1994, 1988) Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton – Visiting Member (1989–90) Villa I Tatti, Harvard – Fellow (1988–89) American Council of Learned Societies – Summer Research Grants (1984, 1981) George Gorse has advised numerous students and contributed to curriculum development through courses such as Gendering the Renaissance , Modern Architecture & Sustainability , and Medieval & Renaissance Cities . While specific grant details are not listed, his repeated NEH and ACLS funding indicates strong external support for his research. He has also co-edited influential volumes on courtly spatial politics, demonstrating leadership in the scholarly community. Though no formal lab or research team is mentioned, his affiliations with Villa I Tatti, the Bogliasco Institute, and the American Academy in Rome suggest collaborative, international scholarly networks focused on Italian art and urban history.
Isabelle Baconguis is an Assistant Professor at the Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, with a focus on structural mechanisms of ion channels and membrane proteins. She earned a B.A. in Biochemistry from the University of Pennsylvania (2005) and a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from OHSU (2013). Key research tools: X-ray crystallography, electrophysiology, cryo-EM Research themes: Sodium channels, acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs), channel assembly/gating, structural biology of membrane proteins Her 2025 Structure paper reveals subunit-dependent regulation in epithelial sodium channels, while earlier work (2014–2020) explores: Cryo-EM methods for time-resolved imaging Epithelial sodium channel architecture AMPA receptor-TARP complexes Toxin modulation of ion channels Scientific Awards: NIH Director's Early Independence Award (2013–2018) Ruth L. Kirschstein NRSA Fellowship (2011–2013) Her publications across 15+ journals span structural biology, neuroscience, and biochemistry, with high-impact work on sodium-binding sites in transporters (2007) and cross-disciplinary tools like Appia for chromatography analysis (2023).
Clayton L. Camic, Ph.D. , is a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education at Northern Illinois University, housed within the College of Education. His research focuses on exercise physiology, nutritional ergogenics, and non-invasive muscle assessment. Ph.D., Exercise Physiology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln M.S., Exercise Physiology, University of Wyoming B.S., Exercise Science, Morehead State University Dr. Camic's primary research interests include nutritional supplements as ergogenic aids , non-invasive assessment of muscle function , and electromyography . His work explores how various supplements, particularly caffeine and pre-workout formulations, influence metabolic rate, strength, endurance, and recovery in athletes and active individuals. He also investigates the accuracy of metabolic prediction models and biomechanical factors in sports performance such as climbing. The 15 most recent publications highlight a consistent focus on exercise metabolism , supplement efficacy , and performance physiology . His studies frequently involve clinical trials and validation research in both athletic and recreationally active populations, published in reputable journals like the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research and Nutrients . While no specific scientific awards are listed in the provided text, his extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals indicates significant scholarly contributions. Dr. Camic teaches advanced courses including Applied Physiology of Exercise (KNPE 452), Neuromuscular Aspects of Physical Performance (KNPE 514), Exercise Bioenergetics (KNPE 652), and Directive Research (KNPE 671). There is no mention of student advising or grant funding in the provided materials. He is actively involved in research and teaching, with no indication of part-time status, retirement, or former staff designation. His lab work appears to be centered on human performance testing and metabolic assessment, though specific lab names or team structures are not detailed.
Courtney Leisner is an Assistant Professor in the School of Plant and Environmental Sciences at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), holding a 75% research and 25% teaching appointment. She previously served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Auburn University from 2018 to 2023. Her academic journey includes postdoctoral research at Michigan State University, where she was awarded the prestigious NIH Ruth L. Kirchstein National Research Service Award. Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in Plant Biology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (2014), an M.Sc. in Botany from Washington State University (2009), and a B.Sc. in Biology and Environmental Science from The College of William and Mary (2007). Dr. Leisner's research centers on understanding how climate change impacts plant production and nutritional quality through genomics-enabled plant physiology. She employs a systems biology approach integrating plant physiology, genomics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics to uncover genetic and biochemical mechanisms underlying crop resilience. Her work spans key crops such as soybean, potato, and blueberry, focusing on abiotic stress responses, transcriptomic regulation, and specialized metabolism. The analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong thematic focus on climate change effects on crops, particularly how abiotic stresses like ozone, salinity, and temperature shifts affect yield and nutritional content. Her work increasingly integrates multi-omics approaches and examines interactions between biotic and abiotic stressors, highlighting a trend toward interdisciplinary and systems-level plant science. NIH Ruth L. Kirchstein National Research Service Award (2015) Dr. Leisner has secured competitive research funding, as evidenced by her NIH fellowship, and leads an active research program that bridges fundamental plant science with agricultural sustainability. While specific grant details are not listed, her publication record and research scope suggest involvement in federally funded projects. She mentors students through her research lab and contributes to teaching within her school, offering courses in plant physiology, genomics, and crop breeding for stress tolerance. Her research program operates at the intersection of plant-environment interactions, utilizing computational and molecular tools to address food security challenges in a changing climate. She is part of collaborative networks in plant science, as seen in her co-authorship with large consortia, promoting inclusive and interdisciplinary research in plant genomics and physiology.
Edwin S. Monuki, MD, PhD, is the Warren L. Bostick Professor and Chair of the Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) School of Medicine. He also serves as Associate Director of the Medical Scientist Training Program (MD/PhD), CLIA Director of UCI Labs, and Director of the Neuropathology Core at the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center. His research focuses on the choroid plexus and its role in brain development and neurodegenerative diseases. The Monuki Lab pioneers stem cell-derived choroid plexus epithelial cell (CPEC) models to study cerebrospinal fluid production, blood-CSF barrier function, and disease mechanisms, particularly in Alzheimer’s disease. The lab has developed a patented protocol for CPEC derivation, advancing regenerative and translational neuroscience. Dr. Monuki’s work bridges developmental biology, neuropathology, and innovative cell modeling. He leads key institutional programs integrating research, clinical diagnostics, and medical education. His leadership in the Medical Scientist Training Program underscores his commitment to training future physician-scientists. Scientific awards and honors are not specified in the available text. Dr. Monuki advises graduate and medical students through the MD/PhD program and related research training initiatives. He oversees major research cores and labs, including the Neuropathology Core and the Monuki Lab, which maintains a Choroid Plexus Repository and develops stem cell models for disease study. His work is supported by institutional and likely federal research funding, though specific grants are not listed. The Monuki Lab is a hub for choroid plexus research, combining basic science with clinical applications, and actively contributes to Alzheimer’s disease research through tissue and model development.
