Leonardo Orazi is a Full Professor at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia's Department of Engineering Sciences and Methods. He specializes in advanced manufacturing technologies, particularly laser processing, polymer engineering, and biomedical surface functionalization. His teaching roles include courses on Smart Manufacturing, Injection Molding, and Additive Manufacturing in Digital Automation and Mechatronic Engineering programs. Research focuses on laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS), material characterization, and micro/nanostructuring for biomedical and industrial applications. Develops innovative manufacturing processes for antibacterial surfaces, microfluidic devices, and enhanced material properties. Research Interests: Laser texturing, polymer processing, surface engineering, additive manufacturing, and simulation-driven design. Labs/Teams: Active in laser-matter interaction research and collaborative projects on biomaterial functionalization. His work bridges computational modeling (e.g., Moldflow simulations) with experimental validation. Publications: Over 40 peer-reviewed articles since 2010, emphasizing laser-based manufacturing advancements, polymer molding optimization, and biomedical material surface treatments. Recent work includes antibiofouling polymer functionalization via ultrafast lasers and fiber orientation modeling in composites.
Leonard Gabriel MITU is a Lecturer at the Department of Product Design, Mechatronics and Environment , part of the Faculty of Product Design and Environment at the Technical University of Brașov. His research focuses on biomaterials, mechatronic systems, and advanced manufacturing techniques. He is particularly active in developing biocomposite materials for orthopedic prosthetics and exploring applications in MEMS (Microelectromechanical Systems). His work integrates interdisciplinary approaches, combining materials science, mechanical engineering, and biomedical applications. Dr. MITU’s research interests include the characterization of biomaterials like hydroxyapatite and polymers (e.g., PLA), optimization of composite reinforcement using glass and carbon fibers, and the development of lightweight prosthetic solutions. He has contributed to studies on manufacturing processes such as photolithography for MEMS and microfabrication techniques. His recent work emphasizes nano and micro-scale manufacturing methods in mechanical engineering, alongside systemic analysis of material behavior in medical devices. His publications span over 20 years, with a focus on biomaterials, composite testing methods, and biomedical applications. Notable contributions include studies on hybrid biocomposites for orthopedics and vibration analysis in renewable energy systems. He has collaborated on projects funded by institutional grants and maintains an active research profile in biomaterials and mechatronics. His address is located at Building C, Room CI 14, 1 Universității Str, Brașov, Romania.
Dr. David Jack is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Baylor University’s School of Engineering & Computer Science. He leads the Scientific Innovations in Complex Engineering Materials (Sic'em) research group, focusing on advanced composite materials, numerical modeling, and non-destructive evaluation (NDE). His teaching includes core mechanical engineering courses such as Dynamics, Strength of Materials, and Finite Element Methods at both undergraduate and graduate levels. PhD, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Missouri-Columbia (2006) MS, Applied Mathematics, University of Missouri-Columbia (2006) MS, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Missouri-Columbia (2003) BS, Mechanical Engineering, Colorado School of Mines (2001) BS, Engineering Physics, Colorado School of Mines (2001) Dr. Jack’s research centers on constitutive modeling of composites, fiber orientation in polymer systems, non-destructive evaluation using ultrasonic and imaging techniques, and multifunctional materials including carbon nanotube networks. His work spans from micro-scale modeling to full-scale structural performance, with applications in aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors. He specializes in predictive modeling of composite processing and performance, and in developing novel NDE methods such as quantitative ultrasound and phased array inspection. His recent publications highlight advancements in finite element modeling of woven composites, fiber orientation prediction in injection molding, electrical conductivity of nanotube networks, and cure-induced deformation in laminates. These works reflect a strong trend in computational mechanics, multiscale modeling, and experimental validation of advanced materials. FAA 8100-9 Statement of Compliance with Airworthiness Standards (6 completed) 6 issued patents in NDE technology 18 pending patents in NDE and composite inspection Dr. Jack advises multiple PhD and master’s students and leads a large research team within the Sic'em lab. His group has secured significant research outcomes, including technology transfer through Verifi Technologies and the establishment of the ISO 17025-accredited MTAC (Materials Testing and Characterization) facility. The lab operates within the 12,000 sq. ft. BRIC facility, with plans to expand by 7,000 sq. ft., and is equipped with advanced imaging, structural testing, and materials fabrication systems. The Sic'em research group maintains dedicated facilities for materials synthesis, manufacturing, NDE/NDI, and high-resolution imaging. It hosts Baylor’s MTAC facility and supports industry collaboration through shared prototyping and testing infrastructure. The lab employs advanced equipment including micro-CT systems, scanning electron microscopes, robotic ultrasonic inspection, rheometers, and large-scale additive manufacturing systems.
Stan Looijmans is an Assistant Professor in the Processing & Performance of Materials group at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Department of Mechanical Engineering, and is affiliated with the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS). His research focuses on bridging the gap between processing-induced structure formation and (micro)mechanical properties in semi-crystalline polymers. Dr. Looijmans obtained both his BSc and MSc degrees with great appreciation from the TU/e Department of Mechanical Engineering. His master's thesis, entitled "Contact mechanics of isotactic polypropylene," highlighted the importance of absolute control over processing history. He also spent time at Università degli studi di Genova studying semi-crystalline polymers. He became a doctoral candidate at TU/e in 2018 and defended his PhD thesis titled "Adhesion-modified polypropylene composites: a sticky situation" in 2023. Since July 2023, he has continued his work as an Assistant Professor. His research centers on the viscoelastic nature of polymer melts and how rich morphologies form in semi-crystalline systems during extrusion or injection molding. Key methodologies include quantification of structure at the nanoscale using synchrotron x-ray and infrared radiation, development of microscale mechanical testing methods, and numerical simulation of crystallization processes. Additional research interests encompass crystallization in additive manufacturing, structure formation under extreme conditions, micromechanical testing of fiber-reinforced composites, and contact mechanics. His work aims to predict local failure in semi-crystalline structures to improve polymeric product performance. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on structure-property relationships in polymeric materials, particularly polypropylene and polylactic acid systems. His research typically combines advanced characterization techniques like X-ray scattering with mechanical testing to understand how processing conditions affect material structure and performance. A notable trend is his investigation into how compatibilizers, fibers, and flow conditions influence crystallization kinetics and resulting mechanical properties. Dr. Looijmans' research has been supported by collaborations with major facilities including ALBA Synchrotron and the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble. His work forms part of the research program of DPI, Project #815 PROFIT, and has received assistance from various industry partners including Borealis and Total Energies. Within the Processing & Performance of Materials group, Dr. Looijmans contributes to both fundamental research on polymer crystallization mechanisms and applied studies addressing industrial challenges in polymer processing. His work with the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS) provides additional interdisciplinary connections across the university. He teaches courses including Soft Materials Processing, Experimentation for Mechanical Engineering, Introduction to Mechanical Engineering, and Mechanical Characterization of Materials.
Stefan Hengsberger is a Full Professor and Head of the Institute for Applied Plastics Research (iRAP) at the Fribourg School of Engineering and Architecture, part of the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO). His work focuses on the intersection of nanotechnology, tribology, and surface engineering as applied to plastics processing and materials science. His educational background includes: MSc HES-SO in Engineering - Physics of materials and electronic devices BSc HES-SO in Chemistry - Nanotechnology and Industrial Applications (NANO) BSc HES-SO in Mechanical Engineering - Biomechanics and Nanomechanics Hengsberger's research interests span multiple domains within materials science and engineering. His primary focus areas include nanotechnology applications in plastics, tribology (the science of friction, wear, and lubrication), surface treatments for functional materials, and the development of functional surfaces with specific properties. His work often bridges fundamental materials science with practical industrial applications, particularly in injection molding processes and polymer processing. He has made significant contributions to understanding how surface modifications can improve manufacturing efficiency and product quality in plastics production. An analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on innovative solutions for plastics processing challenges. His research spans from fundamental investigations of nanocomposite materials to applied studies on improving injection molding productivity. Key themes include surface engineering for anti-adhesive properties, development of biodegradable polymers to address environmental concerns, and the application of micro-nanotechnology to enhance manufacturing processes. His work often involves interdisciplinary collaborations with industry partners to ensure practical relevance and implementation potential. Hengsberger has been actively involved in multiple research projects, including the EUREKA Super-Moulds project (2017-2021), which focused on optimizing plastic injection processes through surface treatments. He has served as principal investigator for several other significant projects related to surface modification, residual deposit characterization in injection molds, and micro/nano structuring of surfaces. His research has attracted funding from various sources including the Danish Innovation Fund, Innosuisse, and industry partners such as Mecaplast SA and Wago Contact SA. As Head of the Institute for Applied Plastics Research (iRAP), Hengsberger leads a research team working at the forefront of plastics technology. The institute serves as a hub for industry-academic collaboration, focusing on practical applications of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques. His leadership extends to fostering connections between academic research and industrial implementation, ensuring that the institute's work addresses real-world challenges in the plastics sector.
Dr. Bana Shriky is a Research Fellow at the University of Bradford’s School of Engineering, affiliated with the Polymer Innovation and Research Centre (Polymer IRC). Her work focuses on developing biodegradable, multi-stimulus responsive drug delivery systems for psoriasis treatment, combining materials engineering with biomedical sciences. She holds a PhD in interdisciplinary materials engineering and pharmaceutical sciences from the University of Bradford (2019). Education : BPharm (Bachelor of Pharmacy) MSc in Pharmaceutical Technology PhD in Materials Engineering and Biomedical Sciences (University of Bradford, 2019) Research Interests : Bana explores structure-property relationships in polymeric systems, linking cellular interactions to drug release kinetics. Her work integrates advanced materials engineering with pharmaceutical science to design smart hydrogels and nanogels for controlled drug delivery. Current projects include developing sustainable biomedical materials and multi-stimuli responsive carriers. Teaching & Engagement : She teaches polymer and pharmaceutical engineering modules, and is an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (since 2016). As a British Science Association Media Fellow (2019), she reported science for the Daily Mail and promotes public engagement through STEM ambassadorship, Café Scientifique, and Pint of Science initiatives. Awards : Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2016) Media Fellow, British Science Association (2019) Labs & Collaborations : Her research is conducted within the Polymer IRC, focusing on interdisciplinary material development for biomedical applications.
Jérôme Charmet is an Associate Professor at the University of Applied Sciences Arc (HES-SO) and holds adjunct positions at the University of Bern (School of Biomedical and Precision Engineering) and the University of Warwick (Warwick Medical School). His research focuses on biomedical engineering , microfluidics , and advanced manufacturing for medical devices. BSc in Microtechniques, Haute Ecole Arc MSc in Biomedical Engineering, University of Bern Current research projects include: Bacterial Suicide (HES-SO funded): Treating biomaterial-associated infections on 3D-printed implants HYPERCELL (SNSF funded): Developing single-cell T cell therapy efficacy assays ELUSIVE (HES-SO funded): Creating mechanically enhanced biodegradable PCBs Public Mask (HES-SO funded): Biodegradable electrospun mask filters His >50 publications and >1200 citations reflect expertise in biodegradable polymers , organic bioelectronics , and point-of-care diagnostics . Key technologies include microheater fabrication , immunoaffinity liquid biopsies , and contamination-free OFET manufacturing .
David Garcia serves as Head of the Research and Innovation Department at CESI South-East region, affiliated with the Digital Innovation Laboratory for Businesses and Learning to Support Territorial Competitiveness (LINEACT). His work focuses on industrial systems engineering, operational research, and numerical simulation with particular expertise in production systems modeling. Dr. Garcia earned his Doctorate from Ecole Supérieure de Chimie, Physique Electronique de Lyon (ESCPE) with his 2002 thesis on polymer injection process optimization (awarded highest honors). He also holds an Advanced Study Diploma in IMAGE from Joseph-Fourier University - Dijon (1998, with honors) specializing in instrumentation and image computing. His research spans production systems engineering, with evolving focus from fundamental polymer injection molding processes to contemporary applications in digital twin technology and Industry 4.0/5.0. Key interests include dynamic scheduling of flexible manufacturing systems, human-system interactions in production environments, and image processing for industrial applications. His work demonstrates a clear trajectory from material science fundamentals to advanced computational approaches for modern manufacturing challenges. Analysis of his publication history reveals consistent contributions to polymer processing optimization that evolved toward digital manufacturing systems. His recent work focuses on digital twin implementation for micro learning factories, affordance characterization in industrial work environments using deep learning, and scheduling frameworks for Industry 5.0 contexts that balance human creativity with machine precision. Dr. Garcia actively supervises research, currently guiding Sarah Ouarab's doctoral work on characterizing affordances in human cyber-physical production systems through multimodal perception of human-system interactions. He serves as Micro Learning Factory (MLF) platform referent and participates in thesis juries for related engineering disciplines. As the regional coordinator for research and innovation activities at CESI South-East, he leads the LINEACT research team focusing on management and decision-making in production systems, human-system interactions, and educational innovation through project-based learning approaches across preparatory and engineering cycles.
Carles Colominas is a Full Professor at the IQS School of Engineering, Ramon Llull University, leading the Chemical Engineering and Materials Science Department. His research focuses on advanced materials engineering, particularly in thin film coatings and surface modification technologies like HiPIMS and PVD. He specializes in developing coatings for industrial applications, including tool steels, cemented carbides, and biomedical surfaces. His work emphasizes sustainable materials, tribological properties, and material durability. Key projects include the GEMAT: Grup d'Enginyeria de Materials (Materials Engineering Group), exploring nanomaterials for CO₂ capture and conversion, and industrial coating solutions. Colominas has led 14 funded projects, contributing to over 57 peer-reviewed publications with notable citations. His research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, addressing materials innovation for energy and environmental sustainability. His expertise spans Thin Film Deposition , Surface Engineering , and Material Microstructure Analysis . Recent studies focus on TiN/CrN multilayers, HiPIMS industrial applications, and femtosecond laser texturing. He collaborates internationally on projects like MAGIC3RF (green CO₂ conversion systems) and Recubrimientos anti-COVID-19 . Advising and Grant Work: Colominas oversees multidisciplinary projects, including doctoral training in PVD coatings and materials for biomedical use. Grants include funding from AGAUR and Ramon Llull University. His lab, Grup d'Enginyeria de Materials, drives innovation in materials for renewable energy and industrial efficiency.
Prof. Dr. Thomas Hocker is a Professor at ZHAW School of Engineering, specializing in energy technology and materials science. His research focuses on solid oxide fuel cells, ceramic materials, and computational modeling of energy systems. Research interests span multiphysics modeling, materials characterization, and optimization of electrochemical systems for sustainable energy applications. Recent work emphasizes microstructure-property relationships in fuel cell components. Publications show consistent focus on fuel cell technology advancements, with recent articles emphasizing computational approaches to materials design and performance optimization. Article keywords frequently include energy technology, materials science, and computational modeling. No specific student advising, awards, or grants information was provided.
Sundar V Atre is a Professor and Endowed Chair in Manufacturing & Materials at the University of Louisville. He leads efforts to establish an interdisciplinary program on Digital Manufacturing and Design. His research focuses on advanced materials, additive manufacturing, and powder injection molding of metals and ceramics. He earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering from Penn State University in 1995. Dr. Atre’s research group, the Materials Innovation Guild, has produced over 200 publications and 7 licensed patents. His work emphasizes multi-scale manufacturing strategies, including green micromachining of ceramics to enable precise micro-scale features. His NSF-funded research (CMMI-1200647, CMMI-1562439) explores tool wear, material compositions, and process parameters for ceramic micromachining. Key projects include optimizing L-PBF processes for fine metal powders and analyzing green-state SiC/AlN micromachining using tungsten carbide tools. His contributions address challenges in ceramic micro-manufacturing through experimental studies on forces, surface quality, and binder effects.
Essam Abo Serie is a Lecturer in the School of Engineering at the University of Leicester. His work bridges academia and industry, focusing on solving practical engineering challenges through applied research. He holds a PhD from Imperial College London and has worked globally on projects ranging from biomedical devices to energy-efficient systems. Research interests include atomization, heat transfer, additive manufacturing, and multidisciplinary industrial applications. Notable projects involve optimizing cooling systems for 3D-printed tools, designing optical systems for robotic welding, and developing heart assist devices. His recent work emphasizes energy efficiency, environmental protection, and autonomous technologies. Publications span thermal optimization of wheel hub motors, wind turbine design, and conformal cooling channel applications. He actively collaborates with industry partners to translate research into real-world solutions. Teaching emphasizes practical engineering problem-solving, aligning with industry needs. His supervision focuses on fostering innovation in mechanical and manufacturing systems.
Yusuf Usta is a Professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering within Gazi University Faculty of Engineering . He has been with the department since 1989, progressing through roles from research assistant to full professor. Currently, he serves as the Deputy Director of the Additive Manufacturing Technologies Application and Research Center (EKTAM) , focusing on additive manufacturing, powder metallurgy, manufacturing processes, material science, and CAD-CAM. His administrative roles include Vice Head of the department, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, and leadership of Gazi University’s Directorate of Constructional and Technical Works. Research Interests : Additive Manufacturing (Selective Laser Melting, Metal Laser Sintering) Powder Metallurgy and Metal Injection Molding Biomedical Applications (Trabecular Bone Structures, Biodegradable Implants) Laser Processing and Surface Engineering Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) with Powder Metal Electrodes Manufacturing Safety Systems and Process Optimization Scientific Contributions : With over 76 WoS publications, 20 projects, and 2 patents, Yusuf Usta has led research in advanced manufacturing techniques, including thermal analysis of rail systems, micro-scale porous surface fabrication, and mechanical testing of implantable structures. His work spans materials science, mechanical engineering, and industrial safety.
Cenk Misirli is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Trakya University , where he has worked since 1999. He earned his PhD in Mechanical Engineering (2006) with a thesis on gear-like part manufacturing via lateral extrusion and an MSc in Mechanical Engineering (2002) focused on extrusion-type forging processes. Academic Titles: Research Assistant (1999), Assistant Professor (2007), Associate Professor (2018), Professor (2023) His research spans tribology , metal forming , surface coating technologies , and composite materials , with notable work on HVOF-sprayed coatings , friction welding , and micro arc oxidation . Recent publications (2021-2023) examine high-temperature wear behavior in copper alloys, WC-coated brake discs, and electrical conductivity changes in multi-metallic billets. Key scientific contributions include awards like the 3rd R&D Innovation Competition (2019) and multiple TÜBITAK Publication Incentive Awards (2008-2014). He has authored over 30 peer-reviewed papers and contributed to books like Aluminium Alloys: New Trends (Intech, 2012). Projects highlight his expertise in manufacturing process optimization , such as studies on plasma electrolytic oxidation , friction welding , and computer-aided design of industrial systems.
Grégory Stoclet is a Lecturer at the University of Lille, affiliated with Polytech'Lille and the Materials and Transformations Unit (CNRS UMR 8207). He works within the Polymer Systems Engineering Research team, with his office located in Building C6, 1st Floor, Room 105 at the University of Lille's Scientific City campus in Villeneuve d'Ascq, France. Dr. Stoclet's research focuses on fundamental aspects of polymer behavior and characterization: Structural evolution induced by deformation in polymers Plasticity mechanisms in various polymeric systems Advanced X-ray diffraction and scattering techniques for materials analysis Structure-property relationships in biopolymers and synthetic polymers His extensive publication record demonstrates expertise in polymer characterization, particularly using X-ray techniques to investigate structural changes during deformation processes. Recent work shows increasing focus on sustainable materials including biopolymers and biodegradable composites. Dr. Stoclet actively supervises PhD students working on diverse polymer research topics, from polylactide synthesis to starch-based materials and nanocomposites. His collaborative network spans multiple research groups within the University of Lille and international partners. As part of the Materials and Transformations Unit, he has access to state-of-the-art characterization facilities including the Lille Electron Microscopy Platform (PMEL) and specialized polymer testing equipment that support his research on polymer structure and mechanical behavior.
