Noella Binda Niati is Assistant Professor of Education and International Development at the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Jesus College. Her research examines youth-driven educative spaces addressing sociopolitical inequalities through Hip-Hop pedagogy and critical development frameworks in West/Central Africa. She co-leads projects including 'Coping with Failed Aspirations' and 'High Hopes and Broken Promises' exploring youth agency in Senegal. Niati's mixed-methods scholarship investigates reverse migration, epistemic disobedience, and language politics. She has worked with UNESCO's Regional Office in Senegal and holds affiliations with comparative education associations worldwide. She teaches in the MPhil Globalization and International Development pathway and undergraduate critical education studies.
Margaret Peters is Professor and Vice Chair for Graduate Studies in Political Science at UCLA. Her research examines international political economy with specialization in migration politics, particularly how trade, foreign investment, and globalization intersect with immigration policies. Her award-winning book 'Trading Barriers: Immigration and the Remaking of Globalization' analyzes how trade policy and outsourcing influence immigration restrictions. Current NSF-funded projects investigate migration waves and Venezuelan displacement in Colombia. Research employs mixed methods including surveys, experiments, archival work, and cross-national analysis. Education: PhD in Political Science, Stanford University (2011) MA in Economics, Stanford University (2008) BA in Political Science, University of Michigan (2002) Publications focus on migration policy determinants, inequality effects, pandemic xenophobia, and historical political economy. Honors include the APSA Lowi Book Award and Helen Dwight Reid Dissertation Prize. She directs research on migrant dignity perceptions using behavioral games and leads projects on authoritarian emigration controls and post-pandemic refugee integration. Teaching includes graduate seminars on international political economy and undergraduate courses on migration politics. She mentors students in research design and policy analysis.
Dr. Andrew Curtis is a Professor in the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences at Case Western Reserve University's School of Medicine. He also holds a joint appointment in the Department of Anthropology, College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on spatial epidemiology, context-driven spatial data collection, and spatial confidentiality, with methodological expertise in geospatial data collection and analysis. He previously directed the WHO Collaborating Center for Remote Sensing and Public Health and has advised numerous public health agencies internationally. His work addresses health disparities at neighborhood scales, disaster response, and spatial syndromic surveillance. Dr. Curtis has mentored 10 PhD graduates now working in academia and public health sectors globally. Education includes a PhD in Geography from SUNY Buffalo (1995), MA in Geography from SUNY Buffalo (1991), and a BA from Portsmouth Polytechnic (1987). He has taught courses in GIS for health, medical geography, and global health. His advisory roles include collaborations with the CDC, Red Cross, and public health departments in Ohio and internationally. His research has been applied to cholera outbreaks, opioid overdose patterns, and pandemic response strategies. He co-edited a special issue on health geography and serves on the editorial board of the Annals of the Association of American Geographers. Dr. Curtis' spatial video methodologies have enabled fine-scale mapping in informal settlements, disaster zones, and conflict-affected areas. His recent work includes geospatial support for Ohio hospitals during the pandemic and energy vulnerability analysis. He emphasizes participatory research and context-enriched data collection to bridge gaps between health research and actionable policy.
Prof. Taco van der Vaart is a Professor and Department Chair at the Department of Operations, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Groningen. His expertise lies in Supply Chain Management, Health Care Operations, and Buyer-Supplier Relationships. He holds a PhD in Business Administration (2000) and an MSc in Mathematics from the University of Groningen. Research Interests: His work focuses on supply chain sustainability, healthcare logistics, and the integration of operations management principles in complex systems. Notable contributions include studies on physician payment dynamics, emergency care coordination, and global value chain governance. Professional Roles: He has served as President of the European Operations Management Association (2019–2022), Director of Graduate Studies at the SOM Research School, and currently chairs the Department of Operations. He also contributes to ancillary roles like the Advisory Board of the Politecnico di Milano School of Management. Recent Research Trends: His recent publications emphasize healthcare operational challenges, such as patient flow management in emergencies and supplier sustainability in global supply chains. Collaborations span international institutions, reflecting his global impact in operations research.
Dr Sarah L. Bulloch is a Teaching Professor in the Department of Sociology at the University of Surrey. She holds a PhD in Sociology (Surrey), MSc in Social Research Methods (Surrey), and MA (Hons) in Social Policy & Law (Edinburgh). Her work focuses on social research methodologies, pedagogy of research methods, social trust, volunteering, and gender studies. Since 2014, she has led training courses in CAQDAS software (ATLAS.ti, MAXQDA, NVivo) for the CAQDAS Networking Project (CNP), emphasizing qualitative data analysis. She advises research teams on software applications and contributes to free online resources for students and researchers. Her research explores methodological challenges in qualitative analysis, including construct validity in trust studies and leveraging archival data (e.g., Mass Observation Archive). She has published in journals like Social Research Online and Social Indicators Research , and co-authored chapters in SAGE Handbooks on qualitative and online research methods. Her applied work includes reports on disability policy, legal provisions for cohabiting couples, and community legal services. Bulloch’s contributions bridge academia, third-sector organizations, and consultancies, promoting methodological rigor and accessibility in social research.
Andrea Collevecchio is a Professor in the School of Mathematics at Monash University, Australia, where he has been a faculty member since 2012. His research focuses on the intersection of Probability, Mathematical Physics, and Statistical Mechanics, with particular expertise in stochastic processes and theoretical modeling. He earned his PhD in Statistics from Purdue University in 2004, followed by postdoctoral positions in Italy and Germany. In 2006, he became Assistant Professor at Ca’Foscari University in Venice before joining Monash University. Collevecchio specializes in Reinforced Processes and Large Deviations, investigating complex systems through random walk models. His work bridges abstract probability theory with applications in statistical mechanics, examining phenomena like memory effects in stochastic processes and phase transitions in lattice systems. Recent research emphasizes hypercube structures, non-reversible dynamics, and reinforcement mechanisms. His 2021-2025 publications reveal a concentrated focus on hypercube random walks, with increasing exploration of non-reversible processes, vertex-reinforced dynamics, and bootstrap methods. These works consistently apply probabilistic frameworks to problems in mathematical physics, demonstrating strong connections between theoretical probability and physical modeling. Collevecchio has secured multiple research grants including ARC-funded projects on self-interacting random walks (2023-2026) and random walks with long memory (2018-2022). He contributes to interdisciplinary initiatives like the Smart Vehicles project for dementia support (2025-2027) and actively organizes academic events including the AIM Day series connecting mathematics, AI, and industry applications.
Matthew Marcus is an Assistant Professor of Practice in the Geographic Information System Technology (GIST) program at the University of Arizona. His work focuses on environmental applications of GIS, particularly in tropical ecosystems such as Amazonian palm swamps. He investigates issues like peatland degradation, deforestation, carbon emissions, and sustainable resource management through mixed-methods and remote sensing approaches. His research spans global-to-local scales, combining ecological data analysis with policy-relevant insights. Dr. Marcus's contributions include developing automated time-series mapping techniques and spatial models to quantify land use changes. His recent publications emphasize the intersection of social-ecological systems and conservation strategies in the Peruvian Amazon. He is affiliated with the ENR2 Building, collaborating on projects that bridge GIS technology with environmental monitoring and policy. While no specific grants or advising roles are listed, his academic contributions reflect a commitment to advancing applied GIS solutions for environmental challenges. His work underscores the importance of integrating technical tools with socio-environmental research to address climate change and ecosystem preservation.
Ruben Loaiza-Maya is an Associate Professor (Research) in the Department of Econometrics and Business Statistics at Monash University. He holds a PhD in Econometrics from the University of Melbourne and an undergraduate degree in Economics from Universidad Nacional de Colombia (Medellin). His research focuses on Copula Modelling, Bayesian Estimation Methods, Time Series Analysis, and Macroeconomic/Financial Forecasting. Key contributions include advancements in variational inference, state space models, and robust forecasting techniques under model misspecification. He leads the active project 'Variational Inference for Intractable and Misspecified State Space Models' (2023–2026), funded as a Primary Chief Investigator. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals through methodological advancements in economic and financial analysis. Recent research emphasizes scalable Bayesian methods, hybrid variational approaches, and efficient computational techniques for high-dimensional models. Publications span prestigious journals like the International Journal of Forecasting, Journal of Econometrics, and Journal of Business and Economic Statistics. Notable collaborations include studies on copula-based time series forecasting and robust approximate Bayesian computation. His work bridges theoretical econometrics with practical applications in risk management and macroeconomic policy.
Tommi Mäklin is a researcher affiliated with the University of Helsinki, conducting interdisciplinary research at the intersection of bioinformatics, microbiology, and genomic epidemiology. His work focuses on bacterial pathogen analysis, metagenomics, and the application of computational methods to study infectious diseases. Mäklin has contributed to high-impact studies on topics such as colibactin-producing Escherichia coli's link to cancer incidence, hospital-acquired infections during the pandemic, and enhanced metagenomic analysis tools like TRACS and Themisto. Key affiliations include visiting research positions at the University of Oslo (2024) and EMBL European Bioinformatics Institute (2023–2023), where he received the Theory@EMBL Visitor fellowship. His research has been featured in prominent journals like Nature Communications and The Lancet Microbe , with findings highlighted in media such as Yle and HS. Education: Not explicitly stated in provided materials. Research Interests: Genomic epidemiology, bacterial pathogen transmission, metagenomics, antibiotic resistance, and computational methods for microbial analysis. His recent work explores geographical cancer incidence correlations with bacterial exposure, hospital pathogen surveillance, and scalable genomic tools for outbreak analysis. Awards include recognition for methodological advancements in bioinformatics and microbial genomics.
Bei Wu is Dean’s Professor in Global Health and Vice Dean for Research at the NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, where she also serves as Co-Director of the NYU Aging Incubator. She holds an additional appointment as Affiliated Professor in the Ashman Department of Periodontology & Implant Dentistry at NYU, reflecting her interdisciplinary expertise. She previously held the Pauline Gratz Professorship at Duke University School of Nursing, underscoring her national prominence in gerontology and nursing science. Her educational background includes a PhD and MS from the Gerontology Center at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and a BS from Shanghai University. These foundational qualifications have supported her extensive research career focused on aging, global health, and oral-systemic health linkages. Dr. Wu’s research is centered on gerontology and global health, with a strong emphasis on oral health, dementia, cognitive decline, caregiving, and health disparities among minority populations, particularly older Asian Americans. She is a pioneer in studying the connections between oral health and cognitive outcomes in older adults. Her work integrates interdisciplinary approaches across nursing, dentistry, public health, and social sciences, often with a focus on vulnerable and underserved communities. Her recent publications reveal a consistent focus on the biological and social determinants of cognitive aging, oral frailty, caregiving burden, and mental health in older populations. Themes include the role of toothbrushing in preventing dementia, the impact of social capital on mental health, and the development of culturally tailored interventions for dementia caregivers. Her work often employs mixed methods, including systematic reviews, cohort studies, and qualitative inquiry. Distinguished Scientist Award for Geriatric Oral Research, IADR (2017) Pauline Gratz Professorship, Duke University (2014) J. Morita Junior Investigator Award (2007) Fellow, Gerontological Society of America Fellow, New York Academy of Medicine 2022 Wei Hu Inspiration Award Honorary Member, Sigma Theta Tau International Dr. Wu has successfully mentored hundreds of early-career scientists and has secured substantial funding from the NIH, CDC, and private foundations. She currently leads multiple NIH-funded projects, including a clinical trial on oral health in dementia and a large data analysis on diabetes and cognitive decline. She co-leads the Rutgers-NYU Center for Asian Health Promotion and Equity and directs the Research and Education Core for the NIA-funded Asian Resource Center for Minority Aging Research (RCMAR), which focuses on building research capacity and addressing health inequities. Her work is conducted through key labs and initiatives including the NYU Aging Incubator, the Rutgers-NYU Center for Asian Health Promotion and Equity, and the Asian Resource Center for Minority Aging Research (RCMAR). These centers support interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation in aging research, and the development of culturally appropriate health interventions.
Justen O'Connor is an Associate Professor in the School of Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusive Education at Monash University’s Faculty of Education. He also serves as Associate Dean (Staffing and Strategy), demonstrating leadership in academic administration. His research focuses on transforming health and physical education (HPE) to be more inclusive, equitable, and socially meaningful, with strong emphasis on informal sport, social ecology, and systems thinking. His research interests include: Transforming teaching and learning in HPE Equity, diversity, and inclusion in sport and education Mental well-being in community sport settings Curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment in HPE Informal and alternative sport participation Social-ecological drivers of physical activity Rasch modeling and scale development for research measurement Justen’s recent publications reflect a consistent focus on inclusion, informal sport, curriculum futures, and socio-ecological systems in physical activity contexts. His work often involves mixed-methods research, collaboration with industry and academic partners, and real-world impact through policy and program evaluation. He has received several prestigious awards recognizing his contributions: Dean’s Award for Excellence in Social and Economic Impact (2022) Vice Chancellor's Excellence Award for Diversity and Inclusion (2021) Best Paper Award in Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy (2018) Finalist for Most Outstanding Paper, Journal of Curriculum Studies in Health and Physical Education (2021) Justen supervises Honours, Masters, and PhD students in areas aligned with his research. He is actively involved in securing competitive grants, including funding from the Australian Research Council. His teaching includes EDF2171 (Motor Control and Skill Acquisition) and EDF4171 (Advanced Sport and Exercise Science). He also engages in public outreach as a keynote speaker and media contributor, promoting accessible research in HPE.
Joseph Nwadiuko is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine, specializing in internal medicine and health economics. He is affiliated with the Center for Global Health as an Associate Scholar, with research focused on health systems, migration, incarceration, and global workforce dynamics. MD: University of Pittsburgh PhD: UCLA, Health Policy and Management (Economics Cognate) MPH & Residency: Johns Hopkins BA: Amherst College Fellowship: General Internal Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Dr. Nwadiuko’s research centers on global health systems, particularly the intersection of migration, health workforce mobility, and health equity. His work explores how economic and policy factors influence physician migration in low- and middle-income countries and examines health outcomes within U.S. immigration detention facilities. He employs administrative data and mixed methods to assess health labor markets and structural determinants of care. His recent publications span high-impact journals such as The Lancet , JAMA , and Health Policy and Planning , highlighting trends in solitary confinement, sexual assault in detention, and diaspora contributions to global health. These works reflect a consistent focus on vulnerable populations, health policy reform, and ethical healthcare delivery. Dr. Nwadiuko has served as a consultant for the World Bank and has advised U.S. government agencies including the State Department, USAID, and the Department of Homeland Security. His interdisciplinary collaborations with physicians and lawyers underscore a commitment to policy-relevant, justice-oriented research. Health Systems Strengthening Migration and Health Refugee Health Incarceration and Health Health Economics Non-communicable Diseases He is actively involved in mentoring and global health training programs at Penn, contributing to the education of medical and public health students. His work group investigates healthcare quality in immigration detention, advocating for transparency and accountability.
Daniel M. Smith is an Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Pennsylvania, School of Arts & Sciences. He holds a PhD from the University of California, San Diego, and has held academic positions at Harvard University, Columbia University, and Stanford University. His research focuses on comparative politics, political economy, and political behavior, with regional expertise in Japan and Western Europe. PhD, Political Science, University of California, San Diego (2012) MA, Political Science, University of California, San Diego (2009) BA, Political Science and Italian, University of California, Los Angeles (2005) His research centers on political institutions, democratic representation, electoral systems, and political dynasties. He is the author of the acclaimed book Dynasties and Democracy (Stanford University Press, 2018), which explores the persistence of political families in democracies, particularly in Japan. His work also investigates voter behavior, gender and age in politics, distributive politics, and legislative accountability. His recent publications in top journals such as the American Political Science Review , American Journal of Political Science , and The Journal of Politics reflect a strong trend toward mixed-methods research, combining large-scale data analysis with experimental designs. His work frequently employs conjoint experiments, natural experiments, and administrative data to study political behavior and institutional effects. Winner of the 2023 Lawrence Longley Award (APSA) Winner of the 2022 Kenneth A. Shepsle Prize Honorable mention for the 2024 APSA Best Paper Award Smith has advised numerous graduate students and co-organizes the Japanese Politics Online Seminar Series (JPOSS). He has also co-edited multiple volumes in the Japan Decides series, analyzing Japanese general elections. He teaches courses on electoral rules, representation, and Japanese politics at both undergraduate and graduate levels. His research is supported by active collaborations with scholars across the U.S. and Japan, and he maintains a robust pipeline of working papers on topics such as coalition dynamics, gender bias, and constituency-building.
Dr. Christian Calvillo Munoz is a Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Energy Policy, University of Strathclyde. His work focuses on energy transition challenges, including energy system modelling, decarbonisation scenarios, and policy analysis. He holds a PhD from the Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorate in Sustainable Energies Technologies and Strategies (SETS), with studies at Comillas Pontifical University (Spain), Delft University of Technology (Netherlands), and KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden). His research interests span energy efficiency, industrial decarbonisation, carbon capture and storage (CCUS), and the socio-economic impacts of energy transitions. He leads projects such as the UK Energy Research Centre Phase 5 and a collaborative initiative on low-carbon heat transitions in Scotland. Dr. Calvillo collaborates internationally, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to affordable energy and climate action. Recent publications (2023–2025) highlight his expertise in CO2 transport infrastructure, heat pump economics, and workforce planning for decarbonisation. He actively engages in policy outreach, advising on energy affordability, tidal energy viability, and just transitions. His work bridges technical analysis with policy implications, emphasizing equitable and economically viable pathways to net-zero targets. Key projects include: UK Energy Research Centre Phase 5 (EPSRC-funded, 2024–2028) Mixed Methods Approach for Low-Carbon Heat Transition in Scotland (Energy Action Scotland, 2024–2027) Labs/Teams: Centre for Energy Policy. Current focus areas include CCUS sector impacts, regional employment dynamics, and policy coherence for energy affordability.
Dr. Arno Onken is a Lecturer (Assistant Professor) in Data Science for Life Sciences at the School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, where he is also affiliated with the Institute for Adaptive and Neural Computation. He leads a research group focused on developing machine learning and statistical methods for modeling neural activity and analyzing large-scale neuroscience data. His work bridges artificial intelligence and computational neuroscience. His research interests lie at the intersection of machine learning, statistics, and neuroscience. He develops flexible probabilistic models such as copulas and Gaussian processes, deep learning architectures like Vision Transformers for brain activity prediction, and matrix/tensor factorization techniques for dimensionality reduction in neural datasets. His group aims to uncover interpretable structure in complex neural recordings and understand how behavior and cognition are encoded in population activity. The recent publications reflect a strong trend in combining modern deep learning with classical statistical modeling to analyze large-scale neural recordings. His work spans from foundational methods in copula modeling and information theory to applications in predicting visual cortex responses and modeling brainstem-hippocampus interactions across sleep states. The research has been published in top venues including NeurIPS, CVPR, eLife, and PLoS Computational Biology. Dr. Onken actively supervises PhD students and has developed several open-source scientific software packages, including the Mixed Vine Toolbox and Population Spike Train Factorization Toolbox. He teaches core courses in Machine Learning and Pattern Recognition and Data Mining and Exploration at the University of Edinburgh.
