Laila Craighero is a full Professor at the University of Ferrara , affiliated with the Section of Human Physiology under the Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation. Her research focuses on the sensorimotor system's role in cognitive functions , particularly motor resonance , biological kinematics , and human-robot interaction . She has published extensively on topics such as stroke rehabilitation , neonatal development , and digital action semantics . Her recent publications (2024–2020) explore: Mechanisms of motor resonance in stroke and Parkinson’s patients Sensorimotor activation in fibromyalgia and newborns Timing in human-robot collaborative tasks Digital action recognition via smartphone typing dynamics She teaches Psychobiology and related courses across multiple degree programs, including Medicine and Surgery , Nursing , and Motors Sciences .
Kiran Thampi is an Research Fellow and Head of the Department of Social Work at Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous), Kerala, India. They also serve as Assistant Director of the Office of International Relations and are an approved research guide at Mahatma Gandhi University for doctoral research. MSW, MPhil, PhD in Social Work Their research focuses on integrated health models , participatory project planning , mental health of elderly and youth , caregiver support in palliative care , and International Social Work . Recent work explores Aging in Place , climate action , and NGO practices through the lens of sustainable development. Kiran's publications span journal articles, books, and chapters on topics like holistic wellbeing , crisis-resilient communities , and cross-cultural supervision . Their 2024–2023 work emphasizes gerontology, social work education, and SDG alignment. They received the European Association of Schools of Social Work (EASSW) Award for Research in Social Work Education (2023) and contribute as an editorial board member for the International Journal of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine , peer reviewer for journals, and consultant for NGOs.
Dr. Tobias Morat is a researcher at the Institute for Movement and Sports Gerontology at the German Sport University Cologne. He plays a key role in teaching and research, particularly in gerontological sports science, fall prevention, and educational innovation. He coordinates the Master’s program in Sports and Exercise Gerontology (M.Sc. SBG) and teaches in both bachelor’s and master’s programs. PhD in Sports and Exercise Gerontology Certificate in Professional Teaching Competence for the University (2014) Completion of eTeaching program, University of Bonn (2021) His research focuses on sports and exercise gerontology , including intervention research, sarcopenia, mobility, and fall prevention. He also specializes in educational research, particularly course and teaching development, research-based learning, e-teaching, and science communication. His methodological expertise spans research-based learning methods, sports motor testing, strength and endurance diagnostics, and various training modalities like Nordic walking, sling training, and exergames. The recent publications reflect a strong trend in educational innovation and gerontological interventions . Many works examine research-based learning, e-teaching, and student assessment, while others focus on physical activity programs for older adults, fall prevention strategies, and empowerment interventions for retirees. The integration of technology in teaching and aging research is a recurring theme. Dr. Morat has received several prestigious awards, particularly in teaching: DSHS-Lehrpreis, 1st Place in Practical Courses/Exercises (2025) DSHS-Lehrpreis, 2nd Place for Module/Teaching Team SBG11 - Review (2020) DSHS-Lehrpreis for e-Teaching (SoSe 2020) Bundeswettbewerb 'Deutschland - Land der Ideen': 'Ausgewählter Ort 2012' Three Minute Research Competition (2015) He supervises bachelor's and master's theses and leads multiple funded research projects, including externally financed initiatives like SPort and #FoL2.0. He is also active in academic service, serving as editor for journals such as Frontiers in Sports and Active Living , BMC Geriatrics , and Gerontology . His collaborative network includes key researchers like Tim Fleiner and Wiebren Zijlstra. Dr. Morat is a member of academic networks including the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Hochschuldidaktik (dghd) and the Akademie Ausgezeichnete Hochschullehre, reflecting his commitment to advancing teaching excellence in higher education.
Dietrich Reetz is a Senior Research Fellow at the Zentrum Moderner Orient (ZMO) and an external faculty member at the Department of Political Science, Free University Berlin. His research focuses on global Muslim identities, with a regional emphasis on South and Central Asia, Europe, and transnational networks. He has led major projects like the BMBF-funded Competence Network Crossroads Asia (2011–2016) and the DFG-funded Bridging the gap: Blending Islamic and secular education (2006–07). Reetz also serves as a Principal Investigator at the Berlin Graduate School of Muslim Cultures and Societies since 2008. Research Interests : Reetz’s work intersects political science, Islamic studies, and ethnic identity formation in colonial and post-colonial contexts. He examines transnational Muslim networks, religious reform movements, and conflicts in South Asia. His projects include studies on the Tablīghī Jamā`at and Da`wat-i Islāmī in Europe, and historical analyses of ethno-religious movements in pre-1947 India. Publications & Projects : Reetz has authored articles on South Asian political Islam, Sikh identity, and Hindu-Muslim conflicts. His edited volumes include South-South Linkages in Islam (2007) and Sendungsbewußtsein oder Eigennutz (2001). His research has been funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Federal Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF). Teaching & Academic Roles : He taught seminars on ethno-religious movements at Humboldt University Berlin (2007) and Free University Berlin, covering topics like alternate globalities in Muslim networks. Reetz holds a Habilitation from Free University Berlin (2003), published as Islam in the Public Sphere: Religious Groups in India, 1900–1947 (Oxford University Press, 2006).
Andreas Sommer is a Professor of History Education and director of the Center for Regional Research at Weingarten University of Education since 2025. He specializes in the didactic potential of historical films, macrohistory, and Anthropocene challenges in history teaching. Habilitation (2024): "Denken in großen Bildern" PhD in History Education (PH Weingarten, 2007-2010) Professor of History Education (PH Weingarten, 2025–present) Guest Professor at Universität Passau (2023) and Universität Augsburg (2023) His research spans history education , Anthropocene pedagogy , environmental history , and qualitative impact studies . He focuses on macrohistorical learning units, Holocaust education, and sustainability in curricula. The articles highlight his expertise in Anthropocene education (2025), historical film reception (2013), and global history integration (2016). Subfields include transformative learning, media literacy, and sustainability frameworks. Co-editor of "Kohlhammer Forschungsreihe Geschichtsdidaktik" (2025) Public speaker on Anthropocene (2023), Holocaust education (2025), and environmental history (2024) Antidiscrimination representative (2020–present) and coordinator of regional research projects
Professor Gregor Kirchhof serves as Chair of Public Law, Financial Law and Tax Law at the University of Augsburg's Faculty of Law. He holds multiple leadership positions including Director of the Institute of Business and Tax Law and Dean of the Faculty of Law. His academic career focuses on constitutional aspects of tax law, public finance, and the evolving relationship between European and national legal frameworks. Kirchhof's research spans several critical areas of contemporary legal scholarship including constitutional budget law, tax reform, social security systems, and democratic representation principles. His work particularly examines the constitutional boundaries of taxation, the 'debt brake' mechanism in German constitutional law, and the future orientation of constitutional guarantees. He has developed significant expertise in European tax law and its interaction with national legal systems. His publications demonstrate consistent engagement with pressing legal issues, particularly constitutional challenges in tax law and public finance. Kirchhof's scholarly contributions frequently address the tension between administrative efficiency and constitutional compliance, with particular attention to property tax reform, inheritance tax structures, and the constitutional implications of Germany's fiscal policies. His work often combines doctrinal legal analysis with practical policy recommendations. Kirchhof maintains active participation in public discourse through media appearances, expert testimony before legislative committees, and contributions to major policy debates. He has provided expert opinions to the German Bundestag on tax legislation and regularly contributes to national media outlets including the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung and Focus magazine. His academic leadership extends to directing research initiatives such as the Augsburg Forum for Tax Law and organizing international conferences on constitutional and tax law topics. Kirchhof has supervised numerous doctoral candidates and contributes significantly to legal education through innovative teaching methods including educational films on tax law fundamentals.
Dana Masaryková, PhD. serves as Associate Professor at the Department of School Pedagogy, Faculty of Education, University of Trnava since 2010. Concurrently, she works as a researcher at the State Pedagogical Institute in Bratislava (2013–present). Her academic foundation includes a PhD in Sports Education from Comenius University (2008) and a Master's in Teaching from the same institution. Her research centers on physical literacy development across early educational stages, with particular focus on: Movement competence assessment frameworks for pre-primary children Integration of technology in physical education curricula Cross-cultural comparisons of motor skill acquisition Teacher training methodologies for movement education Her habilitation thesis Movement competences in pre-primary and primary education (2021) established her expertise in motor literacy development. Publications reveal strong emphasis on practical application, with recent works addressing: Digital tools for movement tracking in classrooms Inclusive strategies for diverse learners Policy frameworks for physical education reform Early childhood motor skill progression models Professional Recognition: Successful habilitation procedure (2021) granting Associate Professor title 22 domestic publications registered in national databases 11 international publications indexed in Web of Science/Scopus As Acting Vice-Rector for External Relations, she oversees international partnerships while maintaining active teaching responsibilities including Physiology of Physical Exercises and School Physical Education. Her consultation hours are Thursdays 09:00-11:00 in Room 625.
Judith Helene Bratten is an Associate Professor at Oslo Metropolitan University, affiliated with the Faculty of Education and International Studies and the Department of Primary and Secondary Teacher Education. She serves as Head of Studies in Area of Responsibility 6 and is associated with the Centre for Senior Citizen Staff, reflecting her commitment to educational leadership and inclusive practices. Her research focuses on physical education (PE), teacher education (PETE), embodied learning, and health promotion in schools. She explores how students develop embodied competence, engage in low-intensity physical activities (e.g., 'lav puls og liten kraft'), and experience well-being through movement. Her work emphasizes student reflection, micro-teaching, and curriculum innovation, particularly in light of Norway’s 2020 core curriculum reforms. The recent publications indicate a strong trend toward interdisciplinary collaboration in health and well-being (folkehelse og livsmestring), with a focus on cross-professional practices in schools. Her research blends qualitative insights with pedagogical innovation, often involving collaborative projects with colleagues such as Tonje Fjogstad Langnes and Kristin Walseth. Judith Bratten actively contributes to academic and public dissemination through peer-reviewed journals like Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy and Acta Didactica Norden , as well as national conferences such as Kroppsøvingskonferansen. She has co-authored book chapters on understanding contemporary educational concepts and promoting inclusive, student-centered PE instruction. She mentors and advises in teacher education contexts, though specific names of students are not listed. Her work is supported by institutional research frameworks at OsloMet, with no specific grants mentioned. She is involved in curriculum development and professional training initiatives, particularly around health, embodiment, and inclusive physical activity. Bratten is part of research groups focused on Body, Learning and Diversity, indicating an interdisciplinary approach to understanding movement, identity, and inclusion in educational settings. Her work contributes to shaping future practices in physical education and teacher training, with a vision for holistic, reflective, and health-oriented pedagogy.
Siv Lund is an Associate Professor in the Department of Primary and Secondary Teacher Education at Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), Faculty of Education and International Studies. She serves as Head of Studies for Area of Responsibility 6 and is an active researcher in physical education, children's health, and after-school programs. Her research interests include physical education teacher education (PETE) , children's physical activity , health and well-being in schools , and qualitative research methods . She is a member of the research group Body, Learning and Diversity , focusing on interdisciplinary approaches to child development and education. Lund emphasizes innovative methods such as physically active playful interviews and core reflection in teacher training. Recent publications (2020–2025) reveal a consistent focus on after-school programs (ASP) , motor development , active play interventions , and professional development in PETE. Her work spans journals like Acta Didactica Norden , International Journal for Research on Extended Education , and PLOS ONE , as well as conference presentations at AIESEP, ECER, and IOERC. Themes include cross-professional collaboration in health, reflective practices, and integrating alternative activities like hobby horse riding into physical education. Walseth, Kristin; Langnes, Tonje Fjogstad; Bratten, Judith Helene (2024). Tverrprofesjonelt samarbeid om Folkehelse og livsmestring i skolen. Riiser, Kirsti; Haugen, Anders L. Hage; Løndal, Knut (2020). Active play in ASP—a matched-pair cluster-randomized trial. Løndal, Knut; Riiser, Kirsti (2024). “We decide on the fly, based on previous experiences”: Staff members’ occupational practices. Siv Lund supervises practicum for pre-service teachers and contributes to curriculum development in PETE. She has been involved in multiple research projects assessing physical activity in Norwegian ASP, often using mixed-methods designs. While specific grants are not listed, her sustained publication output and conference engagement indicate active research funding and collaboration. She is part of a dynamic research team including Knut Løndal, Kirsti Riiser, and Marc Esser-Noethlichs, working on health literacy, teacher development, and child-centered methodologies. The team frequently presents at national and international forums, contributing to both academic and practical advancements in education and public health.
Eric Bailey is a Professor and Director of the Ethnic and Rural Health Disparities (ERHD) Graduate Certificate Online Program at East Carolina University's Department of Public Health within the College of Health and Human Performance. His research focuses on chronic diseases, medical anthropology, multicultural health care, health disparities, and global health programs. Education: BA, Miami University (Oxford, OH) MA, Miami University (Oxford, OH) PhD, Wayne State University (Detroit, MI) MPH, Emory University (Atlanta, GA) Research Interests: Dr. Bailey's work spans medical anthropology, cultural approaches to health disparities, and qualitative research methodologies. He has authored books on African American health patterns, including Food Choice and Obesity in Black America , Black America, Body Beautiful , and The Cultural Rights Movement . Roles: As a core faculty member in the Masters of Public Health program, he teaches courses on African American health, global public health, and ethnic health disparities.
Genny Ballard is the Charles T. Hazelrigg Professor of Spanish at Centre College, where she has been a dedicated educator since 2004. She teaches a range of Spanish language, literature, and culture courses with a strong emphasis on community-based learning and international engagement. She has directed study abroad programs in Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Cuba, Nicaragua, Spain, France, and Andorra, and has been instrumental in developing high-impact educational practices at the college. Education: PhD in Hispanic Studies, University of Kentucky MAT in Teaching, Foreign Language, and Social Studies, University of Louisville BA in Government, Centre College Her research focuses on intercultural competence, language learning, and experiential education. She integrates reflection, service-learning, and writing-intensive pedagogies into her courses. She has developed innovative curricula for study abroad, particularly in Central America and the Caribbean, emphasizing reciprocity and community engagement. The most recent publications and presentations reflect a strong interdisciplinary trend, combining education, cultural studies, language pedagogy, and social justice. Her work frequently explores how language, culture, and identity intersect in both formal and informal learning environments, especially in international and bilingual contexts. Scientific Awards: Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award (Colombia ICETEX, 2019–2020) NEH Summer Scholar (2019) Ballard has secured multiple institutional grants to support community-based learning and international programs. She mentors students through study abroad, internships, and capstone research projects, particularly in the Spanish senior seminar (SPA 500). She played a key role in establishing the Centre College After-School Program for immigrant and first-generation K–12 students and has facilitated internships for the Lincoln Scholars Program in Guatemala and Costa Rica. She collaborates with universities in Colombia, including Universidad del Norte and Universidad de la Guajira, on research and pedagogical development. She is actively involved in academic teams focused on diversity, inclusion, and international education. Her work bridges classroom learning with real-world engagement, especially through partnerships with organizations like FIMRC and Safe Passage.
Dr. Abas Mirzaei is a Senior Lecturer in Marketing at Macquarie Business School, specializing in branding, woke marketing, and brand activism. He is affiliated with the Transforming Energy Markets Research Centre and has published extensively in journals like the Journal of Brand Management and European Journal of Marketing. University: Macquarie University School: Macquarie Business School Department: Department of Marketing Rank: Senior Lecturer His research focuses on brand health metrics, consumer reactions to brand activism, and marketing effectiveness. Recent work explores sustainability campaigns, inclusivity in advertising, and the intersection of social justice with commercial branding. He has developed frameworks like the Brand Health Index and Behavioral Brand Evaluation Typology. His 15 most recent publications analyze woke branding, brand anthropomorphism, product line strategies, and ethical advertising. Key trends include the role of authenticity in social campaigns, data-driven marketing metrics, and consumer responses to inclusive advertising. Best Paper Award (Australian and New Zealand Academy of Marketing Conference, 2013) Mirzaei's Coursera course on visionary leadership has attracted over 15,000 learners. He actively collaborates on projects related to customer experience, predictive modeling, and education marketing. His work has been featured in The Conversation, ABC News, and BBC Radio.
Meike Funk is a Researcher in the Department of Sociology at the University of Education Schwäbisch Gmünd, where she has worked since April 2021. Her career includes prior roles at the Göppingen Health Department (2018–2022) and as a Research Assistant at the same university (2015–2018). Her name appears in academic publications as Meike Funk (née Keller). Educational Background: Master of Science in Health Promotion (2015–2018), University of Education Schwäbisch Gmünd Bachelor of Arts in Health Promotion (2012–2015), University of Education Schwäbisch Gmünd Meike Funk’s research focuses on health promotion, particularly examining the experiences of refugee youth. Her work addresses the interplay between trauma, health, and integration, emphasizing qualitative methodologies and community health initiatives. She also explores intercultural health practices, social support systems, and the sociology of migration and health. Her publications, including peer-reviewed studies on mixed methods and triangulation in refugee health research, reflect a commitment to understanding health challenges and integration opportunities through interdisciplinary lenses. She has presented findings on refugee youth at the 2nd Student Research Conference at Humboldt University Berlin (2017). Meike Funk actively collaborates on projects with institutions such as the Göppingen Agricultural Office, AOK Neckar-Fils, and local schools. Notable projects include the 2023 'Quartierbefragung' in Ursenwang, 2022–2023 initiatives against child poverty, and the 2021–2022 Inspiration Health magazine project. She serves as a consultant for programs like 'Bewegungspass Baden-Württemberg' and 'Klasse2000,' focusing on movement, nutrition, and health prevention in educational settings.
Dr. Ceray Aldemir is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Turkey. Holding a PhD in Business and Management from the University of Manchester (2014), she specializes in digital governance, artificial intelligence applications in public administration, and circular economy policies. Education: BA in Political Science and Public Administration (Gazi University, 2006), MA in Public Administration (University of Manchester, 2010), PhD in Business and Management (University of Manchester, 2014) Research Interests focus on digital transformation in public sectors, including AI competencies for auditors, cybersecurity policy, and blockchain applications in financial systems. Her work on nudge theory examines behavioral economics in government decision-making during crises like the Covid-19 pandemic . She also explores multi-level governance and stakeholder engagement in sustainable development. Scientific Contributions include 15 recent publications analyzing intersections between technology and governance, such as digital accountability frameworks, AI policy challenges, and financial sustainability in local governments. Her work spans journal articles, book chapters, and international projects. Project Leadership includes roles in EU-funded initiatives like CirThink (circular economy integration) and RedCyberSG (cybersecurity capacity building). She has trained SMEs and higher education institutions across Europe on digital competencies.
Dr. Reidar Säfvenbom serves as a Professor at the Department of Teacher Education and Outdoor Studies within the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences (NIH) . His academic focus centers on Human Development and Positive Youth Development , particularly examining how physical activity contexts influence adolescent growth. He has investigated the relationship between vulnerable youth groups and sports participation, advocating for policy changes to create equitable movement opportunities outside traditional organized sports systems. Research Interests: Relational Developmental Systems Theories, Self-Organized Lifestyle Sports, Motivational Climate Analysis Teaching: General educational theory, child/adolescent development, educational philosophy His NIH-based research group explores how physical education, organized sports, and self-organized activities shape adolescent experiences. Notably, he developed the Eagerness for Physical Activity Scale (EPAS) to measure motivational drivers. Recent publications analyze self-organized activity benefits for youth development, comparative studies of egalitarian vs. elitist sports systems, and longitudinal investigations of motivational climate effects. His work with the School in Motion project examines physical activity's impact on academic performance and health metrics.
