Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sibel Uzuner is a faculty member at the Department of Food Engineering , Izmir Institute of Technology . Her research focuses on innovative food technologies (high hydrostatic pressure, pulsed electric field, ozone, UV, ultrasound), bioprocessing modeling , algal biotechnology , and food waste valorization . She leads projects such as 'Production of modified MAH-PBS/Chlorella composite films' (TUBİTAK) and 'Enzymatic saccharification of hazelnut shells' (METU Research Fund). Supervised PhD student Buse Dogan on vinasse-based bio-plastic production Supervised Büşra Nur Esen (2023) on pectinolytic enzyme production Key research trends include bioplastic production from industrial effluents , enzymatic processing of agricultural waste , and non-thermal preservation of traditional beverages . Her work has resulted in multiple patents for bioprocessing equipment and bioactive extraction methods. Recent projects focus on machine learning applications in microbial inhibition and scale-up approaches for industrial food technologies.
Øyvind Stokke is an Associate Professor in the Department of Philosophy and First Semester Studies at UiT The Arctic University of Norway. His academic work focuses on the intersection of environmental philosophy, democratic theory, and climate justice, with particular emphasis on Arctic environmental ethics and resource governance. Stokke's research interests include: Environmental philosophy and climate ethics Democratic theory and environmental governance Resource justice and indigenous rights Arctic marine environment ethics Transformation of intangible cultural heritage to societal resilience Post-growth economic principles His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on practical applications of environmental philosophy, particularly in Arctic contexts. Stokke has explored carbon capture and utilization through microalgae cultivation, developed climate ethics specifically for Arctic marine environments, and examined the relationship between environmental democracy and climate protest in marketized societies. His work often bridges theoretical philosophical inquiry with practical environmental challenges, showing particular attention to how philosophical frameworks can inform concrete climate solutions and governance approaches in the Anthropocene. Stokke is an active member of the Pluralism, Democracy, and Justice (PDJ) research group and the Center for Arctic Humanities. He previously participated in the Globalizing Minority Rights project (2016-2021). His current research investigates the transformative potential of intangible cultural heritage in the dunvær tradition of northern Norwegian sea landscapes (Sea-related Values and Identities in the Vega Archipelago project, RCN 2024-2025), exploring how these traditions can contribute to societal resilience based on post-growth principles.
Inés Martínez Pita is a Full Professor at the Department of Physical, Chemical and Natural Systems at Pablo de Olavide University, Spain. She is affiliated with the ORGSIS (Organisms and Systems) research group, focusing on marine biodiversity and conservation biology. Key Research Areas: Reproductive biology of marine invertebrates, lipid biochemistry in bivalves, environmental impact on coastal ecosystems Methodologies: Hormonal analysis in bivalve hemolymph, satellite data for reproductive forecasting, experimental hatchery conditioning Her recent work examines teratological events in seaslug embryogenesis , non-lethal maturation diagnostics in mussels , and environmental drivers of reproductive cycles in commercial shellfish. Notable findings include dietary lipid effects on gonadal development and stress responses in hatchery-reared bivalves. Scientific Contributions span marine ecology, aquaculture optimization, and environmental physiology. She employs interdisciplinary approaches bridging zoology , biochemistry , and ecosystem management .
Marko Vinceković is a Professor at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture , affiliated with the Division for Agroecology and Department of Chemistry . His work bridges colloid chemistry, polymer science, and agricultural innovation through advanced encapsulation technologies. Current research focuses on microencapsulation of bioactive components for plant nutrition/pest control and functional foods. International collaborations include roles at South Kazakhstan University, Polytechnic University of Marche, and Università degli Studi di Salerno. Research interests emphasize green technologies in agriculture, including: Biopolymer-based delivery systems Antimicrobial microcapsules Plant growth stimulation Food-grade colloidal formulations Novel extraction methods using electrical discharge Scientific projects funded by Croatian Science Foundation and EU programs address: Antimicrobial properties of bee venom Photoselective netting effects on crops Biomass ash-based soil amendments Metal ion-loaded microparticles Awards : Second prize in Cultural and Science category (Zagrebačka banka, 2018) ZICER award at Zagreb Start up factory (2018)
Dr. Calvin A. Henard serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of North Texas (UNT), holding a joint appointment at the BioDiscovery Institute. He joined UNT in 2019 after advancing to full-time staff researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in 2016, where he developed microbial biocatalysts for biofuel production. His academic foundation includes a B.S. in Molecular Biology from Tarleton State University and a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Postdoctoral training comprised an NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch (studying Leishmania virulence) followed by NREL research on metabolic engineering of algae, yeast, and bacteria. Dr. Henard's research centers on methanotrophic bacteria engineering for C1 substrate conversion to fuels and chemicals. His lab pioneers genetic tools (CRISPR systems, promoter variants) and investigates carbon flux, transcriptional regulation, and metabolic pathways in methane-utilizing microbes. Current work bridges fundamental microbial physiology with industrial biocatalysis applications. Analysis of his publication record reveals dominant themes in methanotroph genetic engineering, carbon conversion efficiency, and biocatalyst optimization. His work consistently integrates molecular microbiology with synthetic biology approaches to address challenges in methane-based biomanufacturing. Key scientific recognitions include: NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein Postdoctoral Fellowship NSF CAREER Award He currently leads three major funded projects: an NSF CAREER award (2025-2030) on methanotroph carbon metabolism, an NSF grant (2022-2026) developing biocatalyst tools for biogas conversion, and a DOE-funded initiative (2023-2025) creating CRISPR interference libraries for high-throughput biocatalyst optimization. His lab recruits graduate students through UNT's Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program. At UNT's BioDiscovery Institute, Dr. Henard directs a research group focused on establishing methane as a sustainable industrial feedstock through advanced genetic engineering of methanotrophic bacteria, with emphasis on scalable bioprocess development.
Mima C. Jevtovic is a Research Fellow at the Department of General and Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, and is affiliated with the Innovation Center of the Faculty of Chemistry in Belgrade. Her academic qualifications include: BSc in Chemistry, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry (2011-2015) MSc in Chemistry, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry (2015-2016) PhD in Chemistry, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry (2016-2019) Her research focuses on Coordination Chemistry and Bioinorganic Chemistry, with specialized expertise in molecular magnetism and transition metal complex-based catalysts. She leads the active project "Tailoring Molecular Magnets and Catalysts Based on Transition Metal Complexes" (TMMagCat, 2022-2025) funded by Serbia's Science Fund, and previously contributed to NATO-funded research on radiation hormesis for microalgae biofuels production. Her work bridges fundamental inorganic chemistry with sustainable energy applications. No scientific awards are documented in the provided materials. Regarding research funding, Dr. Jevtovic participates in multiple nationally and internationally funded projects including TMMagCat (ID 7750288), a Ministry of Science project (ID 172055), and a NATO Science for Peace initiative (ID G5320). She has no documented advisees or formal student supervision roles. She operates within the Innovation Center ecosystem at Studentski trg 12-16, Belgrade, collaborating across the Department of General and Inorganic Chemistry's research infrastructure.
Gordana Stanojević is a researcher at the Department of Materials Science within the Institute for Multidisciplinary Research at the University of Belgrade . Holding a Master of Technology Engineer degree, she works on alkali-activated materials and their applications in environmental protection, particularly for radioactive waste stabilization and metal biosorption. Education: Doctoral candidate at Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy (since 2015) Skills: FT-IR, ICP-OES, TG/DSC, UV/Vis spectrophotometry Research Focus: Development of sustainable materials from industrial waste, including: Geopolymer-based waste encapsulation Mechanical activation of fly ash Microalgae cell wall composites for water remediation Durability testing of alkali-activated binders Current Projects: 2020–Innovation Fund : SORBALWALL technology for metal biosorption Previously completed NATO-funded projects on hazardous waste cementation Contact: Email: gordana@imsi.rs | gordana@imsi.bg.ac.rs Phone: +381(11)2085047 Address: Volgina 15, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Marina Stanić is a Senior Research Associate at the Department of Living Systems Sciences, Institute for Multidisciplinary Research, University of Belgrade. She holds a PhD in Biological Sciences (2013) and a graduate degree in Molecular Biology and Physiology (2007), both from the University of Belgrade's Faculty of Biology. Her career includes roles as a Research Associate (2010–2019), Researcher Trainee (2010), and Teaching Assistant at the State University in Novi Pazar (2008–2010). Her research spans: Physiology of microalgae and microfungi Microbial interactions with heavy metals/metalloids Redox biology and energy metabolism Industrial applications (biodiesel, nanoparticle synthesis) Her publications focus on stress responses in microorganisms, metal detoxification mechanisms, and radiation biology, with recurring themes in bioenergy and environmental biotechnology. Awards: Scholarship for the 8th EBSA European Biophysics Congress (Ministry of Science, Serbia, 2011) She mentors master's students and leads projects including: PRISMA project: "Microalgae for biosynthesis of metal cluster compounds" (2023–present) NATO project: "Radiation Hormesis for Higher Microalgae Biofuels Yield" (2017–2021) Innovation Fund project: "SORBWALL technology for metal biosorption" (2020–2021) She is a member of the Society of Biophysicists of Serbia and Biochemical Society of Serbia, and reviews for Microbiological Research and Biometals .
Milena Dimitrijević is a Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Multidisciplinary Research , University of Belgrade, specializing in the Department of Living Systems Sciences . With a Doctor of Physicochemical Sciences and a Bachelor of Physics, her work bridges biophysical methods, coordination chemistry, and environmental applications. Education : PhD in Physicochemical Sciences (2020), Master of Physics (2022), Master of Physical Chemistry (2013), Bachelor of Physical Chemistry (2012) Her research focuses on: Biophysical and physicochemical methods for analytical studies Coordination chemistry of metal complexes Effects of ionizing radiation and heavy metals on microalgae Applications in biofuel production and environmental remediation Recent publications highlight her expertise in: Microalgal lipid metabolism under radiation stress Metal complexation mechanisms (Cu, Mn) Advanced spectroscopic techniques (XANES, EXAFS, FTIR, ICP-OES) Computational modeling of biochemical interactions Environmental monitoring and bioremediation Biological metal homeostasis She contributes to international collaborations such as the NATO Science for Peace and Security Program and COST Actions (FeSBioNet, FeS Chemistry to Immunology). Her technical skills include LC-MS, GC-MS, fluorometry, and synchrotron-based analyses.
Snezana Kovačević is a Research Associate at the Institute for Multidisciplinary Research , University of Belgrade, within the Department of Living Systems Sciences. Her career spans academic research in molecular biology and environmental science, with a focus on microalgal responses to stressors. Education: Doctoral student in Chemistry (2018–present), Master of Biology (Biophysics, 2018), BS in Biology (Molecular Biology and Physiology, 2017) Her research integrates physiology, molecular biology, and transition metal chemistry to study microalgae under ionizing radiation and metal ion exposure. She applies techniques like TEM, Western blot, and biochemical assays to explore cellular adaptations. Recent work highlights trends in radiation hormesis and metal detoxification mechanisms in microalgae, with implications for biofuels and environmental bioremediation. Key publications address copper tolerance pathways and metal-binding cell wall dynamics. Scientific Awards: NATO Project Fellowship (G5320) for radiation hormesis studies Kovačević contributes to projects like the photobionuclear initiative , combining interdisciplinary methods to advance sustainable technologies.
Dr. Raman Vaidyanathan is a Senior Lecturer in Chemical Engineering at the School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering at the University of Sheffield. He serves as Course Tutor for MSc Biological & Bioprocess Engineering, MSc Environment & Energy Engineering, and MSc Energy Engineering with Industrial Management programs, and holds the position of School PGT Programme Lead. His research group focuses on developing microalgae-based value chains that offer environmentally sustainable solutions applicable across chemicals, materials, health, energy, and food sectors. Dr. Vaidyanathan earned a Masters degree in Biotechnology and a PhD in bioprocess engineering from the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, supported by a scholarship for Masters studies, an Overseas Research Scholarship award, and funding from Eli Lilly for his doctoral research. Prior to joining Sheffield, he accumulated over five years of pre-doctoral industrial experience in India applying biotechnological solutions to environmental engineering problems. His research centers on Microalgae Biotechnology, Engineering biology, Sustainable bioprocessing, Near-nature technology solutions, and the Water-food-energy-climate nexus. His work spans from molecular-level understanding of metabolic pathways to process engineering and techno-economic assessments aimed at advancing the circular bio-economy. His group works with diverse microalgae species including Chalmydomonas sp., Chlorella sp., Dunaliella salina, Scenedesmus sp., Phaeodactylum tricornutum, Nannochloropsis oceanica, and Porphyridium purpureum. Analysis of Dr. Vaidyanathan's recent publications reveals a strong focus on microalgae biotechnology with recurring themes of lipid accumulation, nutrient uptake dynamics, and sustainable bioprocessing. His work integrates advanced analytical techniques like FTIR and Raman spectroscopy with bioprocess engineering to optimize microalgal cultivation and product extraction. A clear progression is evident from fundamental studies on microalgal physiology to applied research on biorefinery development and commercial applications. Research funded by UKRI (BBSRC, EPSRC, InnovateUK) International collaboration with DBT (India) and CSC (China) EU Horizon 2020 funding support Industry partnerships for commercial applications Dr. Vaidyanathan has published over 70 peer-reviewed publications and co-edited a book on metabolome analyses. His research group has developed methods for characterizing dissolved inorganic carbon, intracellular biochemical compositions, and proteomic/metabolomic data acquisition in microalgae. He serves as Module Lead for Environmental Engineering and Applied Biological Engineering courses, demonstrating significant teaching and supervisory responsibilities. The research group maintains specialized facilities for microalgal cultivation, lipid analysis, and bioprocess engineering. Their work spans from laboratory-scale investigations to pilot-scale outdoor photobioreactor studies, with particular expertise in diatom species like Phaeodactylum tricornutum for EPA production and carbon sequestration applications.
Thomas Auer is a Professor at the Chair of Building Technology and Climate-Adaptive Construction at Technische Universität München. His research focuses on thermal comfort, facade systems, and sustainable building retrofits, with significant contributions to climate-adaptive construction and energy flexibility in buildings. Current projects include retrofitting existing high-rise office buildings and developing algae-based facade panels for improved thermal and visual comfort. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to sustainable cities, climate action, and responsible consumption. Research Trends: Recent publications emphasize dynamic thermal conditioning, energy performance metrics, and innovative building envelope solutions. Key subfields include microalgae applications, zonal thermal modeling, and climate-responsive design. Collaborations: He collaborates with researchers like Klaus Sedlbauer and institutions in Brazil and Germany on projects addressing building stock optimization and climate adaptation.
Dr. Christina Kuchendorf is a researcher at the Institute of Bio- and Geosciences (IBG), Plant Sciences (IBG-2) at Forschungszentrum Jülich. Her work focuses on sustainable solutions for improving plant production through plant phenotyping, analysis of plant-environment interactions, and development of alternative biomass sources. Key affiliations: Forschungszentrum Jülich, AgroInnovationLabs, Marginal Field Lab Research areas: Integrating molecular, physiological, and ecological approaches to support bioeconomy and resource efficiency She collaborates with companies and farmers in the Rhineland region to test crop management systems in field laboratories, including cultivation systems for non-reclaimed opencast mining areas and soil fertility enhancement studies. Her work aligns with global efforts to adapt agriculture to changing climate conditions.
Dr. Diana Reinecke-Levi is a Senior Scientist at the Institute of Bio- and Geosciences (IBG) , Plant Sciences (IBG-2), Forschungszentrum Jülich. Her work focuses on leveraging microalgae for circular bio-economy applications, including carbon/nutrient sequestration, biomass production, and soil remediation. Expertise in Algal Biotechnology and PhytoRemediation Key contributor to the InnoLab: AlgaeFertilizerBox project for waste stream recovery Research bridges interdisciplinary cooperation between academia and industry through algal 'Omics' studies The Plant Sciences (IBG-2) department at Forschungszentrum Jülich develops sustainable agricultural solutions via plant phenotyping, plant-environment interaction analysis, and biomass innovation.
Dr. Dilek Ustaoğlu serves as a Research Assistant at Karadeniz Technical University's Sürmene Faculty of Marine Sciences within the Department of Fisheries Technology Engineering since 2021, contributing to marine science education and research in Turkey's Black Sea region. Her institutional affiliation reflects deep integration with Turkey's leading fisheries research ecosystem through KTU's specialized marine campus. Her academic foundation includes ongoing doctoral studies at Karadeniz Technical University's Institute of Science (2022-present), a Postgraduate degree from Ordu University's Fatsa Faculty of Marine Sciences (2020-2022), and undergraduate training at the same institution (2010-2014). Professional development is demonstrated through critical certifications: Aquatic Vertebrate Experimental Animal Use Certificate (2025) Turbot Farming and Restocking (2022) Macro and Microalgae Farming (2022) Digital Training on Innovative Aquaculture Approaches (2022) Basic Occupational Health and Safety Training (2022) Research Methods in Aquatic Ecosystems (2022) Determining Invasiveness Potential in Aquatic Species (2021) Pedagogical Formation (2014) Dr. Ustaoğlu's research spans Fisheries, Marine Biology, Ecology, Molecular Biology and Genetics, and Aquaculture , with emphasis on fish pathology, antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, and environmental stressors in aquatic systems. Her methodology integrates molecular diagnostics, ecological modeling, and microbial community analysis to address critical challenges in sustainable aquaculture and marine conservation, particularly focusing on the Black and Mediterranean Seas. Analysis of her 11 journal publications reveals concentrated expertise in fish disease management (particularly Lactococcus pathogens in rainbow trout), environmental pollution monitoring (microplastics), and taxonomic studies of marine species. Her work bridges laboratory diagnostics with field applications, notably developing molecular detection tools while investigating ecological impacts of emerging contaminants and alternative aquaculture feeds. She actively contributes to the funded project 'Biological control of commercially important bacterial fish diseases: bacteriophage therapy' (2022-2025), demonstrating research leadership in developing phage-based treatments for aquaculture pathogens. Her conference presentations at international symposia reflect collaborative engagement with European fisheries research networks despite no formal advisees being documented. Laboratory operations focus on aquatic microbiology and fish health diagnostics, utilizing molecular techniques for pathogen identification and resistance profiling within Karadeniz Technical University's marine research infrastructure.
