Allison C. Rice-Ficht is a Regent Professor and Senior Associate Dean for Research in the Texas A&M College of Medicine. She leads the Center for Microencapsulation and Drug Delivery, established in 2002. Her research focuses on biomaterials for controlled vaccine release, targeting diseases like Brucellosis and Q fever, and studying alpha crystalline proteins' roles in protein stability. She holds leadership roles in research administration, including Senior Associate Vice President for Research (2016–2022) and Interim Vice President for Research (2014–2016). Education: PhD in transcriptional regulation (Vanderbilt University, 1980); postdoctoral work at University of Iowa on trypanosome genetics. Research Interests: Needle-free vaccine delivery via micro/nanoparticles, immune mechanism modulation, and protein structure-function relationships. Her lab collaborates with engineers to develop sustainable drug delivery systems funded by NIH, DoD, and the Gates Foundation. Key projects include tuberculosis and Q fever vaccine formulations.
Erol Kam is a Professor in the Department of Environmental Engineering at Istanbul Technical University. His research focuses on environmental radioactivity, heavy metal sensing, phase change materials, and nuclear radiation shielding. He leads projects such as developing surface acoustic wave-based sensors for heavy metals and creating lightweight concrete with thermal energy storage capabilities. He has collaborated on studies involving neutron shielding materials for nuclear reactors and the ecological impact of submarine thermal springs in the Aegean Sea. His work spans interdisciplinary fields including marine geology, nuclear physics, and civil engineering. Notable contributions include multichannel R-matrix analysis of nuclear reactions and the evaluation of radioactive properties in marine sediments. He has published extensively, with recent works addressing Townsend coefficients in dry air and foam concrete composites with phase change materials. Current research projects include unmanned aerial vehicle development and boron-based neutron shield innovation. His academic contributions are reflected in over 55 peer-reviewed articles and collaborations with institutions across Turkey.
Fuat Topuz is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Istanbul Technical University, specializing in advanced nanofiber technologies for biomedical and environmental applications. His work bridges materials science with practical solutions for pollution control and healthcare. His research centers on electrospinning, cyclodextrin-based nanofibers, and nanomaterial synthesis, with key contributions in antibacterial wound dressings, heavy metal removal systems, and oil-spill remediation membranes. Current projects focus on sustainable nanofiber production for medical masks, cancer drug delivery, and water purification. Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate accelerating output in nanofiber drug delivery and environmental nanotechnology, with strong emphasis on cyclodextrin-functionalized systems. Trends show increasing industry collaboration and translation of lab-scale innovations toward commercial applications. Scientific recognition includes: BAGEP Award (2022) Genç Akademisyen Başarı Ödülü in Basic Sciences (2023) TÜBA-GEBİP Award for Outstanding Young Scientists (2023) As principal investigator for six major projects since 2022 (including TUBITAK-funded initiatives), he leads research on antibacterial nanofiber sorbents, biodegradable medical membranes, and cancer drug-loaded nanofibers. His work has attracted significant national funding with active grants through 2027.
Eva Paz Jiménez is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the School of Engineering (ICAI), Universidad Pontificia Comillas, where she has been a faculty member since 2013. She conducts her research at the Institute for Research in Technology (IIT), focusing on biomaterials, nanotechnology, and adhesives. She teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in engineering. PhD in Engineering, Universidad Pontificia Comillas (2017) MSc in Production Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid Industrial Engineering (Chemical), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid Her research interests are centered on biomaterials, bone cements, nanocomposites, carbon-based materials, mechanical characterization, and adhesive technologies . She applies these to biomedical applications, particularly in orthopedics and tissue engineering. Her work integrates 3D printing, nanomaterial reinforcement, and functionalization techniques to enhance material performance. She has developed novel bone cements with improved antimicrobial and mechanical properties. Her recent publications highlight a strong trend in 3D-printed scaffolds, graphene-reinforced polymers, self-sensing implants, and advanced drug delivery systems . These works span high-impact journals in materials science, biomedical engineering, and nanotechnology, reflecting interdisciplinary innovation in regenerative medicine and smart biomaterials. Distinción Honorífica a la mejor Tesis Doctoral en Ingeniería (2018) Premio Fundación SECOT (2016, 2013) Mejor artículo en Científica Dental (2015) Premio Loctite al mejor Proyecto Fin de Carrera (2011) Mejor comunicación oral, XI Congreso de Adhesión (2010) Director del mejor PFC ICAI (2023) Eva Paz Jiménez has supervised multiple PhD students and leads several research projects, including EU-funded initiatives like Graphene-enhanced 3D printed biodegradable scaffolds for bone regeneration. She collaborates with industry partners such as Thales Alenia Space and Tecnalia, and has contributed to technical training and patent development. She is an active member of the scientific community, serving as an editor for special issues and presenting at international conferences. She is involved in the Biomedical Materials and Adhesives research group at IIT, where her team develops innovative materials for medical applications. Her lab integrates additive manufacturing, mechanical testing, and nanomaterial synthesis to advance the next generation of biomedical devices.
Angel Serrano Casero is a postdoctoral Researcher at CIC energiGUNE within the Thermal Energy Storage department. His work focuses on Phase Change Materials (PCMs), PCM encapsulation, and thermal regulation in building materials like polyurethane foams and bricks. Education: Chemical Engineering (UCLM, 2012) Chemical and Environmental Engineering (UCLM, 2014) PhD in "Passive Energy Storage Materials for building applications" (UCLM, 2018) Research Interests: Development of advanced functional coatings, microfluidic-based PCM synthesis, and flame-retardant materials for thermal energy storage systems. Key areas include PCM encapsulation, sol-gel nanoparticles, and hydrophobic additives for concrete. Scientific Contributions: His recent publications address PCM integration in building materials, microencapsulation techniques, and phase transition modeling in inorganic systems like Li2SO4–Na2SO4. Articles highlight sustainable lignin-based polyols and high-temperature composite stability. Awards: REPSOL award for best Undergraduate Thesis (2011/2012) REPSOL award for best Master Thesis (2013/2014)
Mikel Duran Lopez is a Researcher at CIC energiGUNE specializing in Thermal Energy Storage (TES) within the Phase transitions and critical behaviors research group. His work focuses on developing thermoregulatory materials using phase change materials (PCMs) and microfluidic production techniques for sustainable energy applications. Education: Renewable Energy Engineering, UPV/EHU (2018) Renewable Materials Engineering, UPV/EHU (2019) PhD in Microfluidic Approach for Flexible PCM Production, UPV/EHU (2024) His research spans Thermal Energy Storage , Materials Science , and Microfluidics , with emphasis on Flexible Phase Change Materials synthesis, Droplet Microfluidics for microencapsulation, and Thermal Management systems. He pioneers techniques for solid-solid composite PCMs and shape-stabilized materials through solvent-extraction polymeric fiber production, targeting industrial-scale thermal regulation solutions. Publication trends reveal dual research thrusts: advanced material engineering (e.g., tailored plastic crystals for enhanced storage capacity) and sustainable resource utilization (e.g., steel slag validation in thermal storage prototypes), demonstrating his commitment to both fundamental material science and circular economy applications in energy storage. Scientific Awards: Basque Government fellowship for bachelor degree (2016-2018) UPV/EHU fellowship for master degree (2018) Basque Government fellowship for doctoral thesis (2020-2023) As a core member of CIC energiGUNE's TES division, Duran Lopez leads experimental validation projects and material synthesis initiatives without formal student supervision. His current work integrates microfluidic platforms with industrial byproduct valorization, supported by continuous Basque Government funding for PCM innovation. He operates within the Phase transitions and critical behaviors research group, utilizing CIC energiGUNE's advanced thermal characterization facilities to develop next-generation flexible PCMs for real-world energy storage systems.
Özlem Aydın is an Associate Professor in the Department of Food Engineering at Ahi Evran University, Kırşehir, Turkey. She holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences from Middle East Technical University (2005-2011) and an MSc in Food Engineering from the same institution (2002-2005). Her research focuses on food biotechnology, nanotechnology, and food technologies, particularly in controlled release systems and biodegradable materials. Ph.D., Engineering Sciences, Middle East Technical University (2011) MSc, Food Engineering, Middle East Technical University (2005) BSc, Food Engineering, Ankara University (2001) Her work emphasizes microencapsulation techniques , polysaccharide-protein hydrogels , and biodegradable food packaging . Articles analyze release behaviors in gastrointestinal environments, mathematical modeling of drug delivery systems, and interdisciplinary applications spanning food science and biomedical engineering. Notable projects include optimizing biodegradable antibiotic packaging , evaluating microalgae biomass production , and assessing heavy metal contamination in agricultural systems . She has supervised multiple MSc/PhD theses on these topics and published extensively in journals like Carbohydrate Polymers and Food Hydrocolloids.
Ricardo Gómez García is a Researcher at the Centre for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry (CBQF) at Universidade Católica Portuguesa. His work focuses on sustainable biorefinery processes for extracting bioactive compounds from fruit by-products, aligning with circular economy principles. Education: Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering (UAdeC, Mexico), Master’s in Biological Engineering (University of Minho, Portugal), PhD in Biotechnology (Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Portugal) His research expertise spans food biotechnology, bioactive compound extraction, and agro-industrial waste valorization. Key projects include SUNSPROS for sustainable protein development and collaborations with institutions like Estonian University of Life Sciences. Recent publications highlight trends in bioactive compounds (e.g., phenolics, polyphenols), microencapsulation (curcumin, spray-drying), and food waste valorization (olive leaves, pineapple residues). Topics often intersect with the circular economy and functional foods . He serves as a Guest Editor for journals like MDPI and has co-authored over 20 peer-reviewed articles, 10 book chapters, and 2 international books. He also contributed to two patent applications for bioactive extraction methods. As a co-supervisor, he guided student Ratner, L. in optimizing bromelain production. His activities include 30+ international congress communications and participation in entrepreneurship programs like EIT Food®.
Bat-El Pinchasik is a Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering within Tel Aviv University's Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering. She leads the Pinchasik Lab, focusing on biomimetic systems and interfacial phenomena. Education: Ph.D. in Physics from Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces and University of Potsdam M.Sc. in Polymer Science from Max Planck Institute (joint program with Berlin universities) Dual B.Sc. in Materials Engineering and Physics from Technion University Research Interests: Her work bridges biomimetics, interfacial science, and materials engineering, with emphasis on: Bio-inspired robotics (e.g., insect locomotion, underwater adhesion) Wetting phenomena and droplet dynamics Nanoscale fluid interactions for fog harvesting and energy applications Publication Trends: Recent articles (2015-2022) demonstrate a strong focus on nature-inspired solutions, including microbubble-controlled robotics, insect biomechanics, and adaptive wetting surfaces. Her interdisciplinary approach combines soft matter physics, microfluidics, and biological principles. Laboratory: Directs the Pinchasik Lab specializing in bio-inspired interfacial phenomena and micro-scale robotics.
Ana Lucia Campana Perilla is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Oslo , affiliated with the Section for Genetics and Evolutionary Biology and the BEDPAN Project . Her research focuses on Bionanotechnology , Magnetic Force Microscopy , and Nanomaterials Characterization . She holds a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Oslo, where her work centered on Bio-engineered Palladium Nanoparticles (project RCN294605). Education BSc in Biomedical Engineering, University of Los Andes MSc in Electronic Engineering, University of Los Andes Ph.D. in Physics, University of Oslo Positions Research Assistant (University of Los Andes, 2017–2019) Teacher Assistant (University of Los Andes, 2019–2020) Postdoctoral Research Fellow (UiO, 2020–present) Her publications demonstrate expertise in bacterial nanoparticle synthesis , microfluidic systems , and environmental nanotechnology . Recent work includes characterization of Bimetallic Pd-Fe Nanoparticles (ACS Applied Bio Materials, 2024) and analysis of Magnetic Forces in Bacteria (Frontiers in Nanotechnology, 2023).
Alberto Balfagón Costa is a Full Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science at IQS School of Engineering , Ramon Llull University. His research spans multiple fields including encapsulation for controlled release , micro-reactor technology , chemical product formulation , and cosmological applications of General Relativity . Education: Chemical Engineer, IQS (1984) Degree in Chemical Sciences, University of Barcelona (1987) Degree in Physical Sciences, University of Barcelona (1993) PhD in Chemical Engineering, IQS (1993) Research Interests: Professor Balfagón Costa's work focuses on encapsulation systems for active ingredients and fragrances, micro-reactor design , and fine chemical flow synthesis . He also investigates cosmological models and black hole thermodynamics through General Relativity. His recent publications emphasize chitosan-based biomaterials for skin simulation and fragrance delivery systems. Collaborations & Projects: He leads the Pharmaceutical Chemistry Group (GQF) and has secured grants from AGAUR and Ramon Llull University for projects on lyophilization optimization, continuous flow chemistry, and pharmaceutical materials. His research output includes 15 publications since 2000, with 2023 articles on tri-layered membranes and anti-aging skin testing.
Mário Vale is a Professor Catedrático (Full Professor) at the University of Lisbon's Institute of Geography and Territorial Planning (IGOT), holding the highest academic rank in the Portuguese system. His interdisciplinary work bridges Human Geography with advanced Materials Science, reflecting a unique convergence of geographical sciences and sustainable material engineering. His academic credentials include: 2009: Agregado in Human Geography, Faculty of Letters, University of Lisbon 1999: Doctorate in Human Geography, Faculty of Letters, University of Lisbon 1991: Master's in Human Geography and Regional and Local Planning, Faculty of Letters, University of Lisbon 1986: Licenciatura (Bachelor's) in Geography, Faculty of Letters, University of Lisbon Professor Vale's research spans Human Geography and Regional Planning, with a pronounced shift toward Materials Science applications since 2015. His work focuses on sustainable solutions for environmental challenges, including porous silica systems for solar wastewater purification, microencapsulation technologies for self-healing materials, and biobased polyurethanes derived from biomass liquefaction. This interdisciplinary approach integrates geographical perspectives with cutting-edge material engineering to address sustainability in territorial planning. Analysis of his 13 publications (2015-2021) reveals three dominant research trajectories: (1) Sol-gel derived porous materials for environmental remediation, (2) Microencapsulation systems for self-repairing coatings and sustainable agriculture, and (3) Biopolyol-based polyurethane foams advancing circular economy principles. These works consistently emphasize eco-friendly alternatives to petroleum-based materials. He operates within IGOT's research ecosystem, including the Geographic Studies Center and specialized laboratories supporting territorial analysis and environmental material testing, reflecting the institute's integrated approach to geography and sustainability science.
Dr. Marijana Dragosavac is a Senior Lecturer in Chemical Engineering at Loughborough University with over 20 years of experience in bioengineering, materials science, and vaccine delivery systems. Her interdisciplinary research focuses on particle engineering for global health challenges, developing scalable membrane emulsification processes for mRNA vaccines and micro/nano-capsules. Her educational background includes: MEng from University of Novi Sad, Serbia Masters from University of Novi Sad, Serbia PhD from Loughborough University, UK (DIAMOND project) Dr. Dragosavac specializes in engineering functional particles with controlled size, structure, and surface properties to address malnutrition, vaccine manufacturing, and cancer immunotherapy. Her work spans drug delivery systems (sustained/triggered release), lipid-based nanocarriers for mRNA vaccines, functional foods for chronic disease management, and sustainable agriculture through microbial encapsulation. Current projects include the SlowCat mini-CDT for catalyst development and MicroFactory platforms for mRNA therapies. She leads the Particle Engineering Group with members Ishan Nadkarni, Daniel Miramontes Subillaga, and Lisa Barrett, and collaborates with industrial partners on healthcare product manufacturing. As Chief Scientific Officer at Micropore Technologies, she advances spinout research from her PhD work.
Pierrette Guichardon is a Professor at Aix-Marseille University, affiliated with the M2P2 laboratory (Laboratory of Mechanics, Modeling and Clean Processes). She leads the Small-scale Processes and Mechanics research team, focusing on fundamental and applied chemical engineering research with emphasis on fluid mechanics and process engineering. Her primary research domains include: Membrane Technology (reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, fouling mechanisms) Microfluidics and microencapsulation systems Micromixing characterization and reaction engineering Thermodynamics of vapor-liquid equilibria Supercritical water oxidation processes Environmental applications in water treatment Her work consistently integrates sustainability principles, particularly in developing eco-friendly synthesis methods and green chemistry approaches for microcapsule production and water purification systems. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2016-2025) reveals three dominant research trajectories: 1) Advanced membrane processes with focus on concentration polarization, osmotic counter-effects, and fouling mechanisms; 2) Microfluidic synthesis of polyurea microcapsules using low-toxicity reagents and eco-friendly esters; 3) Fundamental studies in multiphase flows, micromixing kinetics, and thermodynamic modeling of complex mixtures. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges chemical engineering fundamentals with practical environmental applications. No scientific awards were documented in the provided source material. While the source material confirms active research leadership, specific details regarding graduate student advising, grant funding, or collaborative projects were not explicitly mentioned in the available information. Dr. Guichardon operates within the Small-scale Processes and Mechanics team at M2P2, a CNRS joint research unit (UMR 7340) involving Aix-Marseille University and École Centrale de Marseille. This laboratory environment supports her experimental and theoretical work in fluid mechanics, membrane processes, and microscale phenomena, with strong connections to industrial applications in water treatment and materials science.
Ksenia Morozova is a researcher at the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano's Faculty of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences. Her work focuses on food chemistry and preservation, particularly antioxidant mechanisms in plant and dairy systems. Research Areas: Food chemistry, antioxidant analysis, lipid oxidation, and waste valorization Techniques: HPLC, NMR, calorimetry, and mass spectrometry Current Projects: Antioxidant extraction from agricultural by-products, oil stabilization, and food authentication Recent research demonstrates her expertise in advanced analytical methods for food quality assessment, with publications in 2025 covering HPLC analysis of Salvia extracts, NMR-based spice authentication, and isothermal calorimetry for oxidation kinetics. She has also explored supercritical CO2 extraction applications and Maillard reaction products as preservatives. Her 2024-2025 publications reveal a strong focus on food authenticity verification (saffron, hay milk), oxidation inhibition mechanisms, and innovative oil structuring techniques for food applications. Current collaborations include VOG Products and University of Zurich researchers.
