Ralf Hagemann is a Lecturer/Research Associate at Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences, specifically within the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science . His academic work combines Embedded Systems , Software Engineering , and innovative teaching methods like Problem-Based Learning . He actively develops educational hardware and tools for engineering education. Embedded Systems Board design (STMNucleo32-Baseboard) Problem-oriented curriculum development for computer science students Qt-based visualization frameworks for algorithm training His research spans geometric algorithms (2013 dissertation), digital signal processing (1991 thesis), and domain-specific programming languages (1997 PIPL invention). Recent publications focus on multicultural engineering education and cost-effective product development . As a part-time faculty member , he leads technical workshops and contributes to European Project Semester initiatives. His 1991 Diplomarbeit at Fachhochschule Bielefeld laid foundations for his work in hardware-software integration . He regularly demonstrates his MpC-Bildschirmstellwerk software at international model railway exhibitions (2008-2016) and has published in journals like MIBA digital Extra and Eisenbahn Kurier .
Dietmar Seipel is a Professor at the University of Würzburg, affiliated with the Department of Computer Science within the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science. He has held this position since November 1995, establishing a distinguished academic career spanning over 25 years with significant contributions to logic-based computer science. Professor Seipel's research focuses on Logic Programming and Deductive Databases, with substantial expertise in Knowledge Engineering and Artificial Intelligence. His scholarly work bridges theoretical foundations with practical applications, particularly in rule-based systems, knowledge representation, and declarative programming paradigms. He has consistently advanced the field through both theoretical developments and practical implementations, creating tools that enable more effective knowledge management and reasoning systems. His publication trajectory demonstrates a clear evolution from foundational work in disjunctive logic programming to contemporary applications in knowledge representation and semantic technologies. Recent research shows continued innovation in integrating logic programming with modern programming languages and systems, including Python and JavaScript implementations. His work spans theoretical contributions to practical tool development, with applications across diverse domains including space systems, medical informatics, and business process management. Professor Seipel has made extensive contributions to the academic literature, with publications appearing consistently from the 1980s through to the present. His work has influenced both theoretical developments in logic programming and practical applications in knowledge-based systems. He has been actively involved in academic community building through conference organization, particularly for events related to declarative programming and knowledge management.
Gail Murphy is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Vice-President Research & Innovation at the University of British Columbia (UBC). A co-founder of Tasktop Technologies Incorporated, she leads the Software Practices Lab and is affiliated with CAIDA (Centre for Artificial Intelligence Decision-making and Action) and ICICS (UBC Institute for Computing, Information and Cognitive Systems). B.Sc. (Honours), University of Alberta (1987) M.Sc., University of Washington (1994) Ph.D., University of Washington (1996) Her research focuses on software engineering , particularly improving knowledge worker productivity and tools for evolving large-scale systems. She combines lightweight design approaches with industrial evaluations, addressing structural degradation in software systems through: Techniques for understanding/imposing structure in existing systems Design approaches for component reuse and flexible architectures Her recent work includes developer discussion analysis for design recovery (2022), semantic-based task relevance detection (2022), and automated resource-task association (2023). Awards include SIGSOFT Outstanding Research Award (2023), ACM Fellow (2023), and Royal Society of Canada Fellow (2023). She has taught courses like Introduction to Software Engineering (CPSC 310) and Software Construction (CPSC 210).
Carolyn Schubert is the Associate Dean of Academic Engagement at James Madison University Libraries. She coordinates teams such as Digital Scholarship & Distinctive Collections, Ask the Library service, liaison librarians, and the Music Library. Her past roles include Director of Research & Education Services and Health Sciences & Nursing Librarian. Her research focuses on the information behaviors of nursing and health students, teaching evidence-based practice (EBP), and academic libraries administration, including onboarding, change management, and succession planning. She earned a bachelor's degree in Comparative Literature from the University of California, Irvine, and a master's in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University. Schubert's expertise covers information literacy, data literacy, media literacy, science and health information literacy, academic libraries, mis/disinformation, evidence-based practice education, and library administration. Her publications often address EBP training, data literacy, academic libraries, and technology integration in education. She leads initiatives to strengthen library-writing center collaborations, integrate iPads into nursing curricula, and promote open access publishing through institutional repositories. Schubert's work bridges library science with health professions education, emphasizing practical research skills and digital literacy.
Dr. Marijel (Maggie) Melo is an Associate Professor at the University of North Carolina's School of Information and Library Science (SILS), specializing in equitable makerspace design and critical maker culture. She directs the Equity in Making (EITM) Lab and is a 2020 NSF CAREER Award recipient for her work on makerspaces' spatial equity. Her research focuses on creating inclusive STEM-rich learning spaces in academic libraries, particularly addressing gender and diversity inclusion through spatial analysis and pedagogical innovation. Education: B.A., California Lutheran University M.A. in English, California State University of Northridge PhD in English, University of Arizona (AAUW Fellow) Research emphasizes makerspace design's impact on user demographics, with key projects including the University of Arizona's iSpace/CATalyst Studios expansion and the Southwest's first women-only hackathon. She explores themes like 'pedagogical violence,' VR integration challenges, and post-pandemic makerspace adaptations. Awards include the Deborah Barreau Teaching Excellence Award (2020) and the Peter W. Likins Inclusive Excellence Award (2017). She co-authored Re-making the Library Makerspace and has presented at venues like the Google Developer Group Summit and MIRA conference. Teaching focuses on information literacy, diversity in services, and maker pedagogy through courses like INLS 490: Real-time Data Science in Makerspaces.
Ashley Dees is Associate Professor and Associate Head of Research & Instruction Services at the University of Mississippi's J.D. Williams Library. She serves as liaison to the School of Business Administration, the School of Journalism and New Media, and the Department of Economics, while also leading initiatives in government information and student success programming. As Mississippi's Regional Depository Coordinator, she plays a key role in the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP). Her educational background includes an M.L.I.S. from the University of Southern Mississippi and a B.A. from the University of Mississippi. Dees' research centers on academic librarianship, with a focus on information literacy, library instruction, student success, and user experience. She investigates how library spaces are used, how instruction can be improved through feedback, and how libraries can partner with academic support units to enhance retention. Her work emphasizes assessment, collaboration, and evidence-based practice in library services. Her recent publications (2020–2024) reflect a strong trend toward strategic library partnerships in student success, pandemic-era instructional adaptation, and the evaluation of large-scale library instruction programs. She frequently uses case studies, surveys, and collaborative research models. 2024 Mississippi Library Association (MLA) Outstanding Achievement Award 2022 Southeastern Library Association (SELA) Hal Mendelsohn Award 2019 MLA Past Presidents Award 2018 Federal Depository Library of the Year Beta Phi Mu Phi Kappa Phi Dees actively participates in grant-like initiatives through symposia and collaborative research projects, particularly with the National Symposium on Student Retention and ACRL. She has not advised formal graduate students but mentors colleagues and leads instructional teams. She coordinates large-scale library instruction across multiple courses and departments, managing complex instructional logistics and assessment frameworks. She is deeply involved in professional organizations such as MLA, SELA, and ACRL, and contributes to national conversations on library assessment, government information, and student engagement. Her work in the Methods & Analysis Lab and instructional initiatives demonstrates strong team leadership and innovation in academic support services.
Rebeca Peacock is a Clinical Assistant Professor and COE Instructional Designer at the University of West Georgia's Department of Educational Technology and Foundations, College of Education. She holds an Ed.D. in Instructional Design & Technology from Idaho State University (2022), an M.Ed. in Instructional Technology (2012) from Wayne State University, and an M.S. in Library and Information Science (2008) from Syracuse University. Her research focuses on instructional design, online learning, accessibility in education, and academic libraries. Key themes include barriers to online library instruction, accessibility policies, and the evolution of educational technology practices. She has presented internationally and nationally on topics like microlearning and competency-based needs assessments. Peacock has authored or co-authored over 14 publications since 2011, emphasizing instructional design methodologies, accessibility standards, and library service innovations. Her work spans journals like TechTrends, The Journal of Academic Librarianship, and Reference Services Review, with a recent focus on online education challenges and professional development in libraries. Teaching responsibilities include courses such as MEDT-7464 (Design Tech Enhanced Instruction) and MEDT-7472 (Intro to Distance Education), reflecting her commitment to advancing educational technology pedagogy.
Marin Kobilarov is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University’s Whiting School of Engineering. He leads the Laboratory for Autonomous Systems, Control, and Optimization, a subset of the Laboratory for Computational Sensing and Robotics. His research focuses on intelligent robotic vehicles capable of autonomous navigation and task execution in complex environments, with applications in aerial vehicles, medical robotics, and space systems. Dr. Kobilarov holds a BS in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics from Trinity College (2003) and a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Southern California (2008). Before joining Johns Hopkins in 2012, he completed postdoctoral fellowships at the California Institute of Technology and the United Technologies Research Center, specializing in control systems and dynamical systems. His research interests span robotics, autonomous systems, and medical applications, including surgical robotics for ophthalmology and microsurgery. Notable projects include developing perception-aware navigation frameworks, UAV pick-and-place systems, and autonomous retinal surgery tools using imitation learning and real-time imaging. His publications emphasize trajectory optimization, multi-agent coordination, and safety-critical control, with recent work addressing challenges in occluded environment navigation and uncertainty-aware planning for heterogeneous robot teams. Awards include prestigious postdoctoral fellowships from the Keck Institute for Space Studies and United Technologies Research Center. Dr. Kobilarov’s lab collaborates across disciplines to advance robotics in dynamic environments, with ongoing work on surgical automation, autonomous aerial systems, and robust control algorithms. His research bridges theoretical control methods with practical engineering solutions for real-world robotic applications.
Nancy Bulgarelli is an Associate Professor and Health Sciences Librarian at Oakland University's William Beaumont School of Medicine. She serves as the Founding Director (2009-2021) of the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine Medical Library. Her roles include curriculum integration, information literacy instruction, and community outreach initiatives. Education: Master of Science in Library Science (Wayne State University), Bachelor of Arts (Wayne State University). Research Interests: Focuses on medical librarianship innovation, predatory publishing countermeasures, interprofessional education models, and library outreach strategies. Specializes in developing partnerships between academic and public libraries, fostering faculty development programs, and enhancing health sciences education through evidence-based practices. Publications & Presentations: Over 15 peer-reviewed articles and presentations on topics like medical library partnerships, faculty publishing education, and curriculum improvement frameworks. Recent work emphasizes pandemic-era outreach strategies and virtual library models. Grants & Awards: While no specific awards are listed, her leadership in establishing a new medical library and sustained scholarly output reflects institutional recognition. Labs/Teams: Directs the Medical Library's instructional and outreach teams, overseeing programs like the Personal Librarian initiative and community health partnerships. Maintains active involvement in professional organizations like the Medical Library Association.
Dr. Aleshia Hayes is an Assistant Professor at the University of North Texas, specializing in emerging educational technologies. She previously directed the SURGE VR Lab at Purdue University's Fort Wayne campus, focusing on Virtual/Augmented Reality (VR/AR), serious games, and gamified learning tools for educational and military applications. Her work emphasizes DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) principles in technology design and STEM workforce diversification. Education: PhD in Modeling and Simulation/Computer Science (2015), University of Central Florida MS in Modeling and Simulation/Computer Science (2014), University of Central Florida MA in Communication (2008), Purdue University BS in Psychology (2001), Purdue University Research Interests: Dr. Hayes designs and evaluates immersive technologies for learning across K-12, higher education, and workforce training. She focuses on VR/AR applications, gamification, and ethical tech implementation. Recent work explores DEIA considerations in VR research, user experience in high-immersion environments, and metaverse ethics. Grants & Partnerships: Funded by NSF, NIH, Department of Defense, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Projects include VR for teacher training, workforce development, and interdisciplinary game design initiatives. Labs/Teams: Founded SURGE VR Lab (Purdue); currently leading UNT-based research on immersive learning technologies. Collaborates with NATO, commercial, and military partners.
Prof. Dr. Ben Heuwing is a Part-time Professor for Usability and User Experience at the University of Applied Sciences Potsdam and concurrently serves as Unit Manager at ]init[ AG in Berlin, specializing in administration digitization and process automation. His academic work focuses on bridging industry practices with research in human-computer interaction. Education: 2015: Doctorate (Dr. phil.) in Information Science from University of Hildesheim, dissertation: Usability results as a knowledge resource in organisations 2008: Master's degree in International Information Management from University of Hildesheim, thesis: Tagging for personal and collaborative information management 2005: Semester abroad at Dublin City University Research focuses on practical applications of user-centered design across multiple domains. Primary interests include web accessibility frameworks, agile development methodologies for public sector digitization, information architecture optimization, and gesture-based interface design. His work emphasizes empirical validation of usability methodologies in real-world organizational contexts. Publications demonstrate strong cross-disciplinary trends, with recent work converging on public administration digitization (33% of post-2018 publications) and historical text analysis tools (40% of 2016-2017 outputs). Earlier research established foundations in mobile interaction patterns and usability knowledge management systems, showing consistent focus on practical implementation of HCI theories. Professional activities include establishing and managing the Usability Lab at University of Hildesheim (2008-2017) and keynote presentations like Nutzerzentrierte Bürger-Services at BITKOM 2019. Industry contributions feature digitalization labs for governmental transformation at ]init[ AG.
Camilla Moring is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Humanities. She currently serves as Deputy Head of Department for Education and Head of Studies, demonstrating strong leadership in academic administration. Her work bridges communication, digital technologies, and organizational practices. Research Interests: Her research focuses on digital technologies in organizations , practice theory , information practices , and digital literacy . She investigates how digital tools are embedded in professional and organizational contexts, particularly in libraries, healthcare, and education. Her work emphasizes the performative and social dimensions of technology use. Her recent publications reveal a consistent focus on digital transformation in cultural and public institutions, including libraries and museums, as well as digital health applications. Themes such as co-creation, professionalism, and the invisible aspects of digital practices recur across her work, indicating a deep engagement with the sociomaterial aspects of information systems. Scientific Contributions: Extensive research output with 57 publications including journal articles, book chapters, and conference papers Active contributor to Nordic and international journals in library and information science, communication, and digital culture Regular participant and organizer in academic conferences such as iConference She teaches and supervises across all levels in areas including knowledge and information in organizations, research methods, and digital literacy. Her professional network includes affiliations with institutions in Denmark, Sweden, and Ireland. She is actively involved in shaping digital literacy models, such as the UCPH model for digital literacy and skills. Labs and Teams: While no formal lab is mentioned, she collaborates extensively within the Department of Communication and with external institutions such as the University of Borås and University College Dublin. She is part of research networks focused on digital practices, information science, and cultural dissemination.
Gary Shaffer is an Assistant Professor at San José State University's School of Information. He has a distinguished career in library leadership and education, with prior roles including Director of Library Services in Palm Desert, CA, and Director of Library, Arts & Culture in Glendale, CA. He previously served as Program Director and Adjunct Professor at the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business. His academic credentials include a Ph.D. in Managerial Leadership in the Information Professions from Simmons University, and master’s degrees in Library and Information Science, Professional Writing, and Intellectual Property Law. Ph.D., Managerial Leadership in the Information Professions, Simmons University (2016) LL.M., Intellectual Property Law, University of Turin (2016) M.L.I.S., Library & Information Science, Pratt Institute (2006) M.P.W., Master of Professional Writing, University of Southern California (2003) Dr. Shaffer's research focuses on public libraries, organizational sustainability, emotional intelligence in leadership, intellectual freedom, and strategic planning. He explores how libraries can adopt sustainable practices using the triple bottom line approach and how emotional intelligence enhances leadership effectiveness during crises. His work bridges theory and practice in library administration and management. His recent publications show a strong trend in sustainable librarianship, leadership development, and public engagement. Books like The Sustainable Library’s Cookbook and Emotional Intelligence & Critical Thinking for Library Leaders reflect his commitment to advancing library leadership through evidence-based practices and innovation in organizational culture. Member, American Library Association (ALA) Member, Public Library Association (PLA) Member, California Library Association (CLA) Member, Association for Library and Information Science Education (ALISE) Editorial Board Member, Library Management journal Dr. Shaffer has held significant administrative roles in public libraries across California and Oklahoma, bringing real-world experience into his teaching and research. He has contributed to national conversations on library sustainability, onboarding practices, and the future of government document programs. While no specific grants are mentioned, his editorial and leadership roles indicate active participation in the scholarly and professional library community. He teaches INFO 204 – Information Professions Education at SJSU and has previously taught and led academic programs at USC. His service on the editorial board of Library Management further underscores his scholarly engagement.
Remco Dijkman is a Full Professor in Information Systems and chair of the Information Systems group at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) within the Industrial Engineering and Innovation Sciences school. He leads research in Business Process Management with a focus on data-driven optimization of business processes. His work bridges theoretical advancements with practical applications in transportation and high-tech supply chains. Dr. Dijkman received his PhD and Master's degrees in computer science from the University of Twente. His academic journey includes visiting positions at New York University, Hasso Plattner Institute, IBM Zurich Research Lab, Humboldt-University Berlin, and Queensland University of Technology. PhD in Computer Science - University of Twente Master's in Computer Science - University of Twente Professor Dijkman's research focuses on the detection, diagnosis and prediction of optimal execution scenarios, mathematical models for quantitative analysis of business processes, and resource assignment optimization. His work integrates advanced techniques including queueing models, stochastic programming, and deep reinforcement learning to solve complex business process challenges. He has particular expertise in applying these methods to transportation logistics and high-tech supply chain planning, where he investigates how data-driven predictions can improve transport order assignment and supply chain planning. His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward integrating artificial intelligence techniques with traditional operations research methods. The research shows increasing sophistication in handling uncertainty in business processes, with a growing emphasis on real-time decision making and optimization. His work spans theoretical advancements in process modeling and practical applications in logistics and supply chain management, reflecting his commitment to bridging academic research with industry needs. Professor Dijkman serves on the editorial board of Information Systems journal and has published over 100 papers in prestigious venues including Information Systems, Computers in Industry, and Transactions on Software Engineering and Methodology. He currently leads or participates in several major research projects including DynaPlex, CERTIF-AI, SLEM, and FENIX. Additionally, he serves as research director for high-tech supply chain at the European Supply Chain Forum, a networking organization with over 50 multinational companies. His adjunct professorship at Queensland University of Technology demonstrates his international academic engagement. Professor Dijkman's research group focuses on developing advanced methods for business process analysis and optimization, with particular emphasis on handling uncertainty and making real-time decisions in complex business environments. The team works closely with industry partners to ensure practical relevance of their research, particularly in transportation and high-tech manufacturing sectors.
Miriam L. Matteson is Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies in the College of Communication and Information and a full Professor in the School of Information at Kent State University. Her portfolio includes oversight of graduate programs, doctoral studies, research initiatives, and global engagement. Her research examines emotion in the workplace, focusing on emotional labor, soft skills, and information literacy in library settings. Research Interests: Dr. Matteson's work spans emotional intelligence in professional environments, information literacy pedagogy, and management education for librarians. She investigates how interpersonal skills and organizational dynamics impact library services and workforce development. Awards: Distinguished Advising Award, College of Communication and Information (2014) Education: Ph.D. in Information Studies, University of Maryland C.A.S in Library and Information Science, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill M.L.S., Indiana University B.S. in Music and History, Indiana University Professional Service: She serves as editor for Public Services Quarterly and holds editorial/advisory roles with multiple library associations. Dr. Matteson regularly presents at international conferences including ALA, ACRL, and the European Conference on Information Literacy.
