Dr. Robert O’Connor is an Assistant Professor at the School of Physical Sciences, Dublin City University (DCU) , specializing in interface chemistry and thin film characterization. His work bridges semiconductor physics and energy harvesting technologies , with a focus on materials like high-κ dielectrics and III-V substrates. BSc in Applied Physics (2001), DCU PhD in Semiconductor Physics (2005), DCU His research employs X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic layer deposition (ALD) to study material interfaces in devices such as MOSFETs and photoelectrochemical systems . He leads a 4-year SFI-funded project on solar water splitting for hydrogen fuel and collaborates with Trinity College Dublin (SPOKE project) and IMEC, Belgium on area-selective deposition techniques. His lab utilizes a state-of-the-art integrated ALD-XPS tool . His scientific awards include the Marie Curie Intra-European Fellowship , Irish Research Council EMBARK Fellowship , and SFI TIDA Award . Publications span high-κ dielectrics , self-assembled monolayers , and block copolymer lithography , with recent work on graphene oxide heterostructures and recyclability in additive manufacturing . He supervises 5 postgraduate students and teaches modules like Final Year Project (PS451) and Solid State Physics I (PS204) . Collaborations include institutions such as IMEC and Trinity College Dublin , with tools like the integrated ALD-XPS system at DCU.
Liam Lewis is a Research Professor at Munster Technological University (MTU), leading the Centre for Advanced Photonics and Process Analysis (CAPPa). He holds a PhD in microelectronic engineering from University College Cork (Tyndall Institute, 2007). His work focuses on applying photonics in collaborative research, including spectroscopic techniques, advanced imaging, and material characterization. Liam collaborates extensively with institutions like University College Cork's School of Physics (Laser Spectroscopy Group) and School of Chemistry (Centre for Research into Atmospheric Chemistry), as well as the Environmental Research Institute and the EU-funded AtmoTrace project (WP4). His research expertise spans semiconductor processing, laser and LED technology, and industrially driven projects. The CAPPa centre specializes in photonics-based solutions for academic and industrial challenges. Liam's contributions bridge fundamental and applied research, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration. No specific awards, student advisees, or published articles are listed in the provided text.
Oran Morris is a researcher in the Department of Computer Science & Applied Physics at the National University of Ireland, Galway. His work bridges applied physics and engineering, with a focus on radiation detection, extreme ultraviolet spectroscopy, and plasma sources for lithography. He has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference proceedings, particularly in the area of EUV and gamma-ray instrumentation. Research Interests: Applied Physics, particularly in atomic and nuclear systems Energy Engineering and energy conversion technologies Extreme-Ultraviolet (EUV) Lithography and plasma sources Development and optimization of scintillation detectors Spectroscopy of highly charged ions Position reconstruction in gamma-ray detectors using neural networks The trend in his publications from 2007 to 2017 shows a strong emphasis on experimental physics and engineering solutions for radiation and plasma-based technologies. His work frequently appears in journals related to nuclear instruments and optical engineering, indicating a consistent focus on instrumentation and measurement systems for high-energy environments. Scientific Contributions: Co-authored 17 research outputs including journal articles and conference contributions Published in high-impact venues such as Physical Review A and Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Active collaborator in international research teams involving EUV and gamma-ray detection Maintains an ORCID profile and is listed in Scopus with an h-index of 9 and 224 citations Advising and Grants: While no direct information is available about student supervision or grant funding, his collaborative research projects suggest involvement in team-based scientific initiatives, likely supported by external funding. His role in detector development and spectroscopy indicates potential leadership or key contributor status in technical research groups. Labs and Teams: Oran Morris appears to be part of a research network focused on radiation detection and EUV sources, possibly affiliated with a laboratory specializing in nuclear instrumentation or plasma physics. His collaborations with researchers from institutions involved in optical engineering and atomic spectroscopy point to membership in a multidisciplinary research team.
Prof. Deborah O'Connell is a Full Professor and Director of the National Centre for Plasma Science and Technology (NCPST) at Dublin City University (DCU). She holds a PhD from DCU and has held prestigious positions including Chair at the University of York (UK) and EU Marie Curie Fellowship at Queen’s University Belfast. Her research focuses on plasma-based technologies addressing global challenges in biomedical and environmental sectors, including plasma medicine, antimicrobial applications, and green chemistry solutions. Her work emphasizes atmospheric pressure plasmas, plasma activated liquids, and diagnostic techniques. She has pioneered advancements in plasma-jet design and reactive species control. Key achievements include the Quantemol database development and co-founding the International Conference on Data-Driven Plasma Science. Prof. O'Connell has received international recognition, including the EPS/IoP Crookes Prize (2018) and the IoP Hershkowitz Award (2013). She actively contributes to global plasma science through leadership roles in the International Plasma Chemistry Society and IUVSTA's Plasma Science & Techniques Division. Her interdisciplinary research integrates plasma physics, chemistry, and biology to advance therapies and sustainable technologies. Current work explores plasma applications in agriculture, cancer treatment, and environmental remediation.
Dr. Genecy Calado de Melo is a Lecturer in Operative and Primary Care Dentistry at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) School of Dentistry . As a registered dental surgeon with advanced training in dental medicine and a PhD in oral cancer diagnostics via vibrational spectroscopy, he bridges clinical practice with cutting-edge research. Education : PhD, Technological University Dublin (2019) MSc in Dentistry, Fernando Pessoa University (2018) Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Universidade Tiradentes (2014) Member of the Faculty of Dentistry, RCSI Research Focus: Specializing in Raman microspectroscopy for oral cancer detection , his work develops minimally invasive diagnostic protocols using saliva and brush biopsy samples . Key contributions include multiblock data analysis for improved diagnostic accuracy and standardized Raman acquisition protocols . Scientific Impact: His research has been recognized with the RCSI award at the British Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology . With over 15 peer-reviewed publications, his work explores spectral differentiation of oral lesions , salivary biomarkers , and clinical applicability of biophotonics . Clinical Expertise: Prior clinical experience in primary dental care , oral medicine , and paediatric dentistry informs his translational research approach, emphasizing practical diagnostic solutions that reduce patient trauma while maintaining clinical rigor.
Dr. Sithara Sreenilayam is an Assistant Professor in the School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering at Dublin City University since June 2023 and a Funded Investigator at I-Form, the SFI Research Centre for Advanced Manufacturing. She holds a Ph.D. in Soft Matter Physics from Technological University Dublin and an M.Sc. in Physics from Mahatma Gandhi University, India. Her research spans nanomaterials, printed electronics, additive manufacturing, laser processing, and liquid crystals. She investigates applications in energy storage, biomedical devices, and environmental solutions. Dr. Sreenilayam has published extensively on these topics, with recent work focusing on nanoparticle synthesis, 3D-printed biomedical scaffolds, and functional materials for sensing applications.
Dr. Jean-Paul Mosnier is an Associate Professor and currently Head of the School of Physical Sciences at Dublin City University (DCU). His research focuses on atomic physics, plasma physics, materials science, and nanotechnology, with applications in semiconductor materials, plasma-based decontamination, and thin film technologies. He leads studies on photoionization processes in ions, X-ray absorption spectroscopy of molecular ions, and the structural properties of ZnO-based nanomaterials. His work spans experimental and theoretical approaches, including investigations into cold plasma reactors for food safety, laser deposition techniques for nanomaterial synthesis, and the optical properties of semiconductor films. He contributes to both fundamental physics and applied technologies, such as biofilm inactivation using non-thermal plasma and energy-efficient material fabrication. Dr. Mosnier’s research is characterized by interdisciplinary collaboration, bridging atomic physics, materials engineering, and environmental applications. Key areas of contribution include: Photoionization dynamics of atomic and molecular ions Plasma technology for food decontamination Laser-deposited nanomaterials (ZnO, AZO) X-ray and UV spectroscopy of molecular systems Semiconductor thin film characterization
Dr. Lampros Nikolopoulos is an Associate Professor in the School of Physical Sciences at Dublin City University (DCU). His research focuses on theoretical atomic and optical physics, with an emphasis on strong laser-matter interactions and high-performance computing simulations. He has held prior positions at institutions such as the Max-Planck Institute for Quantum Optics and the Institute of Electronic Structure in Greece. Research Interests: Quantum systems in ultra-short laser fields, atomic structure theory, free electron lasers, and attosecond physics. His work includes developing computational methods (e.g., MCHF, CI-B-splines) and simulating dynamics in extreme environments. He has authored two books and numerous peer-reviewed articles.
Dr. Tony Cafolla is an Emeritus Associate Professor at Dublin City University's School of Physical Sciences. He has held this position since 1992, with prior research roles at the University of Manchester and University of Wales, College of Cardiff. He is affiliated with the HEA-funded National Centre for Sensor Research since 1999. Education: B.Sc. in Experimental Physics, Trinity College Dublin (1975) M.Sc. in Nuclear Instrumentation Physics, Trinity College Dublin (1977) Ph.D. in Solid State Physics, University of Virginia (1985) Research Interests: Electronic and chemical properties of semiconductor surfaces Photoelectron spectroscopy using synchrotron radiation Surface structural studies via I-V Low Energy Electron Diffraction (LEED), Scanning Tunnelling Spectroscopy (STS), and optical probes Development of advanced materials for sensor applications (e.g., graphene, ceria thin films) Recent Research Trends: His work spans nanomaterial characterization (e.g., MoS₂ flakes, ZnO nanostructures), surface functionalization (e.g., bromine-functionalized molecules), and interdisciplinary applications in robotics and biomedical coatings. Publications emphasize experimental techniques like STM/STS and synchrotron-based spectroscopy. Awards: None explicitly listed. Grants/Advising: No specific grants or advisees mentioned, though his involvement with the National Centre for Sensor Research indicates collaborative research activity. Labs/Teams: Active in the National Centre for Sensor Research, focusing on sensor technology and material innovation.
Dr. Leila Negahdar is an Assistant Professor in Sustainable Chemistry at University College Dublin's School of Chemistry since October 2022. She holds a PhD in Chemistry (Magna Cum Laude) from RWTH Aachen University and has extensive postdoctoral experience at Utrecht University, RWTH Aachen University, Cardiff University, and University College London where she was awarded a prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowship. Dr. Negahdar's educational journey began with a Master of Science from the University of Dortmund followed by her doctoral studies at RWTH Aachen University. Her PhD research focused on the mechanistic study of catalytic conversion of cellulosic biomass to valuable fuels and platform chemicals under the supervision of Professor Regina Palkovits. Her research program centers on understanding the mechanism and kinetics of catalytic surface reactions, with particular emphasis on sustainable chemistry and renewable energy applications. Using a combination of operando spectroscopic techniques and kinetic modeling, her group investigates catalytic processes related to climate change mitigation and green chemistry, including electrochemical reduction of CO 2 and electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution. She employs advanced methods such as SSITKA-DRIFTS-MS and studies dynamic catalysis, electron transfer processes at solid-liquid interfaces, and non-thermal plasma-assisted catalytic conversion. Dr. Negahdar's extensive publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to the fields of catalysis, electrochemistry, and sustainable energy. Her recent work shows a strong trend toward developing efficient catalysts for CO 2 conversion, hydrogen production, and renewable chemical synthesis, with increasing focus on practical applications for addressing climate change challenges. Among her notable recognitions are the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie individual fellowship, Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA), and a Universal Design for Learning Digital Badge from Ireland's National Forum for Teaching & Learning. Marie Skłodowska−Curie individual fellowship Associate Fellow of Higher Education Academy (AFHEA) Universal Design for Learning Digital Badge Dr. Negahdar actively supervises PhD, MSc, and BSc students while leading multiple significant research projects funded by organizations including Science Foundation Ireland, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, and the Royal Society of Chemistry. Her current grants focus on programming catalytic surface reactions, CO 2 utilization to ethylene, and making chemical science labs accessible for disabled researchers. She also coordinates the Sustainable Development Chemistry module and teaches introductory chemistry courses. Her research group combines experimental characterization with modeling approaches to study key reaction steps in catalytic transformations, with strong collaborations across European institutions and access to central facilities for lasers and synchrotron radiation.
Elfed Lewis is a Professor in the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering at the University of Limerick's Faculty of Science and Engineering. He serves as Director of the Optical Fibre Sensors Research Centre (OFSRC) and is a member of both the Limerick Digital Cancer Research Centre and the Optical Fibre Sensors Research Centre. With over 28 years of academic leadership since joining University of Limerick in 1996, Professor Lewis has established himself as a world-renowned researcher in optical fiber sensing technologies, with more than 200 journal papers and 150 conference contributions. Professor Lewis earned his BEng (Hons) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Liverpool University in 1981 and completed his PhD from the same institution in 1987. His doctoral research focused on high-speed photography and spectroscopy of electric circuit breaker arcs during the current zero phase. Prior to joining UL, he worked with BICC Telecom Cables and established a research group at Liverpool John Moores University. Professor Lewis's research spans Optoelectronics, Neural Networks, Optical Fibre Sensors, and Advanced Sensors and Instrumentation , with significant applications in medical physics (particularly radiation dosimetry for cancer treatment), environmental monitoring, and industrial sensing. His research fingerprint shows dominant activity in Fiber Optics Engineering (100%), Fiber Optic Sensor Engineering (69%), and Glass Fiber Material Science (50%). His recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate a clear focus on applying optical fiber sensor technology to solve critical challenges in radiotherapy dosimetry, with particular attention to FLASH radiotherapy, small-field radiation measurements, and real-time dose monitoring systems. The research trajectory shows increasingly sophisticated sensor designs capable of multi-parameter measurements with high precision for clinical applications. Institute of Measurement and Control Finkelstein Award for excellence in International Research (2024) University of Limerick President's Research Excellence Impact award (2023) University of Limerick Special Achievement in Research Award (2005) Fulbright Scholar (2008) Distinguished Lecturer for IEEE Sensors Council (2013-2015) Vice President for Technical Operations for the IEEE Sensors Council (2017-2019) Vice President of International Society of Sensing Technology (2025) Fellow of Institute of Physics, IET, and Royal Society of Chemistry Senior member IEEE Professor Lewis actively supervises PhD students and has secured substantial research funding supporting his work. He has organized major international conferences including IEEE Sensors 2011, EWOFS 2016, IEEE World Forum on Internet of Things (2019), and Sensors and Applications Conference 2024. His leadership extends to editorial roles and professional society governance. As Director of OFSRC, Professor Lewis leads a multidisciplinary team focused on advancing fiber optic sensing technologies with strong collaborations with medical institutions for cancer treatment applications and industrial partners. Current projects emphasize development of next-generation sensors for precision medicine, particularly in radiation oncology, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health, industry innovation, and clean water.
Prof. Ray O'Neill is an experimental physicist at Maynooth University's Department of Experimental Physics, affiliated with the Faculty of Science & Engineering and Hamilton Institute. He holds the title of Associate Dean of Science and Engineering, with prior roles including Dean of the Faculty of Science, Dean of Research and Graduate Studies, and Vice President for Innovation (2013-2016). His research spans atomic and molecular physics, quantum entanglement, biomedical imaging, and innovation systems. O'Neill earned his BSc and PhD in Physics from Queen’s University Belfast, joining Maynooth in 1993. He contributed to Ireland’s first national research integrity policy (2011-2013) and led the Maynooth University Curriculum Commission (2014-2016). Education: BSc in Physics, Queen’s University Belfast PhD in Atomic and Molecular Physics, Queen’s University Belfast Research Interests: Combines foundational physics (electron impact excitation, quantum systems) with applied work in near-infrared biomedical imaging and innovation systems. Recent focus on data analytics and machine learning applications. Publications Overview: Over 30 peer-reviewed articles across atomic physics, optics, and biomedical engineering. Key topics include laser plasma dynamics, multiphoton ionization, and brain-computer interface technologies. Administrative Contributions: Chaired national research integrity working group (2011-2013) Member of European Universities Association Research Policy Group Developed university-wide curriculum reforms as Curriculum Commission Chair Labs/Teams: Active in Hamilton Institute collaborations, focusing on interdisciplinary innovation and applied physics research.
Dr. Fatima Cristina Garcia Gunning is Head of Graduate Studies at Tyndall National Institute, University College Cork. Her research focuses on high-speed optical communications, photonics systems, and sensing technologies. She holds a PhD in Optoelectronics from Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (1997–2000), with postdoctoral work at British Telecom and Corning Research Centre. Research interests include 2-micron wavelength communications, optical OFDM, frequency comb generation, and fiber-based sensors. She has published over 200 papers and holds 3 patents. Awards include the 2017 UCC Best Research Supervisor Award and SFI Mentorship Award (2019). Key Grants: SFI IPIC Phase 2, Horizon 2020 TIPS, EPSRC-SFI CDT in Photonic Integration. Leadership roles: Chair of Empowering Women at Tyndall (2016–2020), VP of IEEE Photonics Society Outreach. Advises over 10 PhD/MSc students, including recent graduates in optical fiber sensors and high-speed systems. Current projects involve Tb/s superchannel transmission and software-defined optical networks. Collaborates globally via EU projects (TRIUMP, PHASORS) and industry partnerships.
Ivana Savic is a researcher at University College Cork (UCC), affiliated with the Tyndall National Institute's Theory, Modelling & Design Centre. Her work focuses on theoretical and computational modeling of material properties for technological applications. Education: PhD in Electrical Engineering (2006), University of Leeds; BSc in Electrical Engineering (2003), University of Belgrade. Her research spans thermoelectric materials, quantum transport phenomena, and optoelectronic devices. Recent work emphasizes heat conduction in nanoscale systems and thermoelectric efficiency improvements. She has contributed to understanding phonon transport and electron dynamics in quantum cascade lasers. Scientific awards include the Serbian Government Scholarship (1997), GW Carter Prize (2005), and Overseas Research Scholarship (2003). She served as an SFI/Marie Curie Starting Investigator (2012–2014) and lectured Statistical Thermodynamics at UCC in 2013–2014.
Peter J. M. van der Burgt is an Associate Professor of Experimental Physics at Maynooth University, affiliated with the Faculty of Science & Engineering. He holds a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Utrecht (1986). His research focuses on electron and photon impact fragmentation of molecules/clusters relevant to radiation damage, plasma physics, and atmospheric processes. Key projects include studies on nucleobases (adenine, thymine, cytosine) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using time-of-flight mass spectrometry. His work explores low-energy electron interactions critical to DNA damage modeling and astrophysical chemistry. Education : Ph.D. in Physics, University of Utrecht, The Netherlands (1986) Research Interests : Radiation damage mechanisms in biological materials Electron-induced fragmentation pathways Atmospheric and astrochemical molecule dynamics Development of mass spectrometry techniques Recent Article Trends : Publications (2014–2018) emphasize biomolecular clusters (adenine-water, cytosine) and PAHs like anthracene. Methods include differential pumping systems and reflectron TOF mass spectrometry. Findings contribute to understanding DNA damage pathways and environmental PAH reactivity. Grants/Advising : No explicit grants listed, but collaborations with institutions like NUI Maynooth and international labs (e.g., National Institute of Standards and Technology, Université catholique de Louvain) suggest funding via collaborative projects. Advised students include S. Finnegan, F. Mahon, and M. Dunne on nucleobase fragmentation studies. Labs/Teams : Experimental Physics department at Maynooth University, with equipment specialized in electron/photon collision studies and cluster physics.
