Steven Y. Liang , Regents' Professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology 's Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, focuses on precision manufacturing , additive manufacturing , and materials-driven process optimization . His research program bridges materials science and computational mechanics to develop predictive models for advanced manufacturing systems. Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley (1987) M.S., Michigan State University (1984) B.S., National Cheng-Kung University, Taiwan (1980) Dr. Liang's work emphasizes physics-based modeling of thermal-mechanical interactions in machining and additive manufacturing, particularly for Ti6Al4V and Inconel 718 alloys. Recent publications highlight tool wear prediction , laser-assisted micro-milling , and residual stress modeling using machine learning and analytical mechanics. His research has been recognized with the ASME Milton C. Shaw Manufacturing Research Medal (2016) , SME Gold Medal (2021) , and Outstanding Lifetime Service Award of NAMRI/SME (2021) , among others. Funded by federal agencies and aerospace/automotive industries, his work provides scientific foundations for process planning and optimization.
Luigi Bruno is an Associate Professor of Machine Design at the Department of Mechanical, Energy and Management Engineering (DIMEG), University of Calabria. He has held this position since 2014, following 12 years as an Assistant Professor at the same institution and Visiting Professorships at IIT Gandhinagar (2012), University of Alabama at Birmingham (2013-2017), and Free University of Bozen-Bolzano (2021). 1999 : Master's in Mechanical Engineering, University of Calabria (110/110 cum laude) 2003 : PhD in Mechanical Engineering, University of Pisa His research interests span: Experimental Mechanics : Pioneering speckle interferometry for micro-displacement measurement and residual stress analysis. Materials Science : Elastic characterization of anisotropic materials, biomedical applications of soft substrates, and 3D-printed composites. Biomedical Engineering : Mechanical behavior of biological tissues, ocular biomechanics, and dental implant material testing. Recent research trends focus on: Integrating artificial muscles into rehabilitation devices Advancing full-field optical measurement via microCT/DVC Optimizing 3D printed polymer adhesion for industrial components Exploring neuronal biomechanics on soft surfaces Scientific contributions include: CS2007A00010 patent for dual-focus speckle interferometers Deputy Editor of Optics and Lasers in Engineering (2019-present) Guest Editor for special issues on optical methods in experimental mechanics and nanobiotechnology Academic leadership extends to coordinating Mechanical Engineering committees (2021-present), serving on editorial boards, and organizing international conferences like AIAS National Conference (2018). He has secured multiple MIUR research grants and industry collaborations with Alfagomma, 3DNA, and Ferrovie della Calabria. His laboratory, Mechanics of Materials and Structures , supports both research and teaching activities with advanced optical measurement systems and computational tools for mechanical design.
Dr. Durgamadhab Misra is a Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at New Jersey Institute of Technology. His research advances semiconductor devices and materials for next-generation computing and electronics. Research Focus: Dr. Misra's laboratory specializes in: Dielectric materials for advanced transistors Resistive switching memory devices Gate stack engineering Metal-oxide-semiconductor systems In-memory computing architectures Nanoelectronic device fabrication Research Trends: His publications show consistent focus on metal-oxide-based electronic devices, with recent emphasis on ReRAM technologies for in-memory computing, magneto-electric FETs, and low-power device design. Recent works demonstrate increased application focus on neuromorphic computing hardware. Research Funding: Co-PI: REU Site: Optics and photonics: Technologies, Systems, and Devices (NSF, 2024-2027) Co-PI: REU Site: Optics and photonics (NSF, 2019-2024) PI: KAUST-NSF Research Conference on Electronic Materials (NSF, 2015)
Robert Heinemann is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Manchester, affiliated with the School of MACE. His work focuses on advanced machining, tool condition monitoring, and sustainable manufacturing processes. He holds a PhD from the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (2004) and has extensive research experience in drilling technology, carbon-based coatings, and environmental benign machining. Education: Diplom Ingenieur (Dipl.-Ing. FH) in Mechanical Engineering, University of Paderborn, Germany (1999) MSc in Electronic Engineering and Engineering Management, University of Paderborn/Bolton University (2001) PhD in Mechanical Engineering, University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (2004) Research interests include: Drilling and reaming technology for minimally invasive surgery Development of diamond-like carbon coatings for cutting tools Process and tool optimization for aerospace and biomedical applications Environmental sustainability in manufacturing design His research outputs emphasize adaptive drilling strategies, deep learning applications in process monitoring, and sustainable manufacturing practices aligned with UN SDGs. He leads the Laser Processing Research Centre (LPRC), focusing on laser-based machining innovations. Scientific achievements include a Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship (2010) and contributions to over 40 peer-reviewed articles. He advises 9 postgraduate research students and collaborates on multi-disciplinary projects addressing industrial challenges in composites and precision engineering.
Professor João Quinta da Fonseca is a Professor of Mechanical Metallurgy in the Department of Materials at The University of Manchester. He leads the LightForm project, a multidisciplinary initiative supported by the EPSRC, and is affiliated with the Materials Performance Centre and Dalton Nuclear Institute. His research focuses on microstructural-scale metal deformation mechanics, crystal plasticity modeling, and in-situ characterization using synchrotron/neutron diffraction. He chairs the IOM3 Advanced Metal Forming Committee and collaborates with industries like Rolls-Royce and Airbus. Education: PhD in Mechanical Behavior of High Volume Fraction MMCs from the University of Leeds. Academic Line Manager in the Department of Materials and EDI committee member. Research Interests: Experimental mechanics, texture analysis, phase transformations, and computational modeling. Pioneered HRDIC for sub-micron deformation measurement. Key applications include aerospace and energy sectors. Grants & Projects: Active grants include Rotational Vibration Assisted Increment Sheet Forming (EPSRC-funded) and collaborations on jet engine materials. Over 150 publications and datasets on magnesium alloys, titanium, and superalloys. Labs/Teams: Leads the Mechanical Metallurgy group, part of the Centre for Light Alloy Research and Innovation (CLARI).
Shahrzad Esmaeili is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering at the University of Waterloo. She holds a PhD in Materials Engineering from the University of British Columbia (2002), and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in Materials Science and Engineering from Shiraz University (1988, 1980). Her research focuses on processing-structure-property relationships in light alloys, metallic biomaterials, and additive manufacturing. She has expertise in phase transformations, surface modifications, and multi-length scale characterization. Notably, she received an Early Researcher Award from the Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation. Her work bridges experimental and computational methods to study microstructural phenomena in aluminum and magnesium alloys. Recent publications emphasize non-isothermal annealing, precipitation hardening, and bio-structure fabrication. Education: PhD, Materials Engineering, University of British Columbia (2002) MSc, Materials Science and Engineering, Shiraz University (1988) BSc, Materials Science and Engineering, Shiraz University (1980) Research Interests: Her work integrates experimental and modeling approaches to study nanostructured materials, including metallic biomaterials and light alloys. Key areas include: Precipitation hardening mechanisms in Al-Mg-Si and Mg-Zn alloys Surface functionalization via laser-assisted deposition Additive manufacturing of porous titanium bio-structures Thermal-mechanical processing of aluminum composites Publications: Over 100 peer-reviewed articles span microstructural analysis, alloy behavior under thermal treatments, and biomedical applications. Recent trends focus on non-isothermal processing effects, microalloying strategies, and advanced surface modification techniques. Awards: Early Researcher Award (Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation) Grants & Collaboration: Her research involves interdisciplinary collaborations, though specific grants are not detailed here. She leads studies on novel processing routes for high-performance alloys and biomaterials. Labs/Teams: Active in materials characterization and computational modeling groups at the University of Waterloo, focusing on multi-scale material analysis.
Dr. Triratna Muneshwar is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay), where he has been serving since November 2021. His research focuses on advanced thin film deposition techniques, particularly atomic layer deposition (ALD) and atomic layer etching (ALE), for next-generation semiconductor devices. Ph.D. in Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada (2014) Dual Degree (B.Tech & M.Tech) in Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science, IIT Bombay (2009) His research interests lie at the intersection of materials science and semiconductor technology, with a strong emphasis on modeling and experimental analysis of vacuum thin film processes. He investigates atomic layer deposition of oxides, nitrides, and metals, surface reaction kinetics , dopant distribution in thin films , and parasitic reactions in high-aspect-ratio structures . His work bridges lab-scale innovation to industrial fabrication (Lab-to-Fab). Dr. Muneshwar's publications reveal a consistent focus on improving the precision, efficiency, and scalability of ALD processes. His work spans plasma-enhanced ALD , precursor chemistry , in-situ characterization , and numerical modeling of growth mechanisms. Key themes include precursor utilization optimization, nucleation control, and material characterization for logic and memory applications. Scientific recognitions include: Featured Article, Journal of Applied Physics (2016) Editors Pick, Journal of Applied Physics (2018) U.S. Patent on precursor utilization in pulsed ALD processes Dr. Muneshwar has mentored research at the postdoctoral and associate levels and continues to build a research program involving graduate students and collaborative projects. His prior experience includes a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship and Research Associate role at the University of Alberta. He is actively involved in advancing ALD/ALE technologies with industrial relevance. His research is conducted within the MEMS department at IIT Bombay, leveraging advanced fabrication and characterization facilities. He collaborates with teams working on semiconductor materials, nanofabrication, and process modeling, contributing to India's growing expertise in microelectronics and advanced materials.
Ramses Martinez is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering and Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University . He holds a B.A. in Applied Physics from Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (2004) and a Ph.D. in Physics and Materials Science from the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) in 2009. Prior to joining Purdue, he conducted postdoctoral research in the lab of Prof. George M. Whitesides at Harvard University, focusing on nanofabrication, microfluidics, and soft robotics. Education B.A. in Applied Physics, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (2004) Ph.D. in Physics and Materials Science, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) (2009) His research bridges soft robotics , flexible electronics , and nanofabrication , with a focus on creating self-powered e-textiles , omniphobic paper-based devices , and programmable mechanical metamaterials . His work has led to over 25 publications and 9 patents, emphasizing practical applications in health monitoring and industrial automation . Notable projects include waterproof electronic decals for biofluid monitoring, smart bandages for chronic wound detection, and laser nanoforming methods for scalable metallic structures. His research has been recognized through the Fulbright Fellowship and the Marie Curie IOF Grant .
Prof. Tom Van Gerven is a chemical engineering specialist at KU Leuven's Process Engineering for Sustainable Systems (ProcESS) group. His research focuses on process intensification using alternative energy forms (ultrasound, microwaves, light) for sustainable metallurgy, mineral carbonation, and solvent extraction applications. He leads innovations in low-grade ore processing and carbon capture technologies. Key Research Areas: Process intensification, green metallurgy, CO₂ utilization, and advanced crystallization techniques Recent Work: 2025 publications highlight reactor optimization, mineral carbonation of industrial residues, and acoustic/microwave-assisted separations Technical Expertise: CFD modeling, sonochemical reactors, ionic liquid extraction, and environmental impact analysis
Professor Hailiang Yu is an Honorary Fellow at the University of Wollongong's School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering. His research focuses on engineering materials, manufacturing processes, and mechanical engineering, with over 100 journal/conference publications and 30 science-focused newspaper commentaries. He serves as co-Editor-in-Chief of Modeling and Numerical Simulation of Material Science , and holds editorial roles in Scientific Reports and International Research Journal of Engineering Science, Technology and Innovation . Yu has secured significant funding through grants such as the Australian Research Council's 'Large-volume gradient materials' project (2017–2020) and 'A Physical-based abrasive wear model' (2013–2016). His work emphasizes cryorolling, microstructure optimization, and advanced material fabrication techniques. He currently supervises Master's and PhD students in materials engineering and manufacturing innovation. Key research themes include cryogenically processed alloys, bimetallic clad sheets, and high-entropy composites. His publications in journals like Metallurgical and Materials Transactions A and Journal of Materials Processing Technology reflect expertise in structural optimization, tribology, and corrosion resistance. Yu aims to become an international leader in materials manufacturing and mechanical engineering.
Chris Valentin Nielsen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). His research focuses on metal forming, joining processes, and tribology, with expertise in formability, tool development, and numerical modeling. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to sustainable manufacturing. He supervises PhD students in projects such as sustainable busbars for electric vehicles and adjustable tool design for high-volume production. His research interests include metal forming (e.g., deep drawing, ironing), joining technologies (resistance welding, laser welding), and advanced manufacturing methods like additive manufacturing. He employs finite element modeling and experimental analysis to bridge fundamental and applied research. Collaborations span global institutions, addressing challenges in material behavior, process optimization, and tool durability. Recent publications explore topics such as dieless Nakajima testing for additive materials, punch design improvements, and asperity deformation mechanics. His work emphasizes sustainability, robust production systems, and eco-friendly lubrication solutions. Projects involve interdisciplinary teams, integrating numerical simulations with industrial applications to enhance manufacturing efficiency and material performance.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Werner Homberg is Chair holder and Vice Dean at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Paderborn. He leads Subproject C03 "Forming and Machining Technology" within Collaborative Research Center Transregio 285 and serves as Dean of Research at the Institute for Lightweight Construction with Hybrid Systems (ILH). Research focus areas: Deep drawing process optimization with intrinsic lubrication Modular 3D roller straightening systems for spring steel wires Forming-based manufacturing of lightweight joining elements Tool life improvement in thermomechanical forming Flow forming of metastable austenitic steel with phase transformation monitoring Recent publications demonstrate expertise in advanced forming technologies, hybrid material processing, and sensor-based monitoring systems. His work addresses both theoretical process understanding and practical implementation for sustainable manufacturing solutions. Contact: wh@luf.uni-paderborn.de | Office: Pohlweg 53, 33098 Paderborn | Space: IW1.801
Denis Dowling is a Full Professor at University College Dublin (UCD), leading the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering. He directs the I-Form Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, a 40M Euro initiative focusing on additive manufacturing and digital integration in manufacturing environments. His research spans surface engineering, plasma treatments, and advanced materials processing, with a focus on composites and additive manufacturing innovations. Dr. Dowling holds a PhD from UCD and has supervised 20 PhD and 5 MSc students. He is actively involved in the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) in manufacturing and previously led UCD's participation in the SFI Precision Cluster. His awards include the UCD Innovation Award (2012) and the Institute of Materials Finishing Gold Medal (2013). His work bridges academia and industry, with collaborations in solar energy, medical devices, and manufacturing SME sustainability. Key research themes include functional coatings for biomedical applications, microwave-assisted synthesis of nanostructures, and in-situ process monitoring for additive manufacturing quality control. Teaching includes modules on nanomaterials and manufacturing, reflecting his research-led approach. Professional roles include chairing the Irish branch of the Institute of Metal Finishing.
Tatyana Konkova is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Design, Manufacturing and Engineering Management at the University of Strathclyde, Faculty of Engineering, Glasgow, UK. She is actively engaged in research, teaching, and professional leadership in the field of Materials Science and Engineering, with a focus on metallurgy and advanced manufacturing techniques. Education: Doctor of Science, Mechanisms of cryogenic plastic deformation and features of microstructure formation in technically pure copper, Institute for Metals Superplasticity Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences (awarded 2011) Master of Business Administration (MBA), Strathclyde Business School (awarded 2023) PG Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, University of Strathclyde (awarded 2021) MSc (Hons) in Materials Science and Engineering, Ufa State Aviation Technical University (awarded 2005) BSc in Engineering, Ufa State Aviation Technical University (awarded 2004) Research Interests: Her research spans Severe Plastic Deformation (SPD), cryogenic deformation, additive manufacturing, microstructure evolution, and advanced characterization using EBSD, TEM, and SEM. She focuses on materials such as titanium alloys, copper, and nickel-based superalloys, aiming to bridge fundamental science with industrial applications. Her work emphasizes grain boundary engineering, abnormal grain growth, and deformation-induced boundaries. Publication Trends: Recent publications highlight her growing interdisciplinary work combining additive manufacturing with electric machine design, as well as continued deep microstructural investigations in aerospace and microelectronic materials. Her research integrates data-driven optimization and advanced characterization to improve material performance and manufacturing efficiency. Scientific Awards and Honors: Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (FIMMM) Chartered Engineer (CEng) by the Engineering Council Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE) Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) PG Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education Advising and Grants: She has supervised undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students and serves as Principal Investigator on multiple research projects, including EPSRC-funded CDT in AI-enabled Digital High-Value Manufacturing and AFRC projects on titanium alloy forgeability. She has secured funding from national and international sources, including the Russian Foundation for Fundamental Research. Her leadership in industrial collaboration and knowledge exchange is evident through her roles in Catapult projects and industrial group supervision. Labs and Teams: She has led the Materials Characterisation Theme at AFRC and represented the center in Cross-Catapult forums on additive manufacturing. She is part of the Horizon Europe Working Group with the University of Waterloo and actively collaborates with national and international research teams.
Dr. Ehsan Mohseni is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, Faculty of Engineering. He is a key member of the Centre of Ultrasound Engineering (CUE) research group and supports the Royal Academy of Engineering and Spirit AeroSystems research chair led by Professor Gareth Pierce. His work focuses on advancing robotic and intelligent Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) systems for industrial applications. B.Sc. in Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering, University of Tehran, 2006 M.Sc. in Metal Forming Processes, University of Tehran Ph.D. in Automated Defect Detection using Electromagnetic NDE, École de Technologie Supérieure (ETS), Montreal, Canada Dr. Mohseni’s research is centered on NDE 4.0, integrating advanced sensing, multi-physics modeling, and machine learning. His expertise spans ultrasonic and eddy current testing, multi-sensor data fusion, and probability of detection studies. He focuses on applications in additive manufacturing, welding, composites, and metal processing, aiming to overcome current technological barriers in industrial inspection. The recent publications highlight a strong trend toward intelligent, automated, and robotic NDE systems. Key themes include self-supervised learning for ultrasonic segmentation, human-machine collaboration in data analysis, and advanced signal processing for weld and composite inspection. The integration of AI, flexible sensor arrays, and embedded navigation systems reflects a shift toward smart, adaptive inspection platforms aligned with Industry 4.0. Scientific Awards: The BINDT Annual Conference Award (2019) Dr. Mohseni is actively involved in research funding and knowledge transfer. He serves as Principal Investigator on KTP projects with ETHER NDE LIMITED and NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO UK LIMITED, focusing on in-process inspection for additive manufacturing and field calibration for ultrasonic testing. He contributes to large-scale collaborative projects funded by Innovate UK and industry partners, emphasizing practical deployment of NDE solutions. He also supervises research staff and collaborates with global aerospace firms including Pratt & Whitney Canada, Safran, and Bell Helicopter. He is a core member of the Centre of Ultrasound Engineering (CUE), a dynamic research group developing next-generation ultrasound technologies. The team works on advanced robotic sensing hubs, flexible transducer arrays, and AI-driven data interpretation tools, often in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Engineering research chair and industrial partners.
