John Capobianco, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Concordia University and holds the Honorary Concordia University Research Chair in Nanoscience. His research focuses on lanthanide-doped nanoparticles, upconversion luminescence, and biomedical applications. PhD, University of Geneva Key research areas include: Nanomaterials synthesis and spectroscopy Upconversion for biomedical imaging Drug delivery systems Photodynamic therapy for cancer treatment Optical thermometry and sensing Recent publications highlight advancements in: X-ray detection via photochromic nanoparticles Lipid-coated nanoparticles for lung permeation Cooperative energy transfer in Yb3+/Eu3+ complexes Biocompatible nanomaterials for secure information storage Pr3+-doped radiosensitizers for glioblastoma therapy Scientific recognitions: Honorary Concordia University Research Chair in Nanoscience Teaching includes undergraduate and graduate courses in inorganic chemistry and spectroscopy. His work bridges fundamental material science with applied biomedical engineering, emphasizing optical properties and therapeutic applications of lanthanide-based nanomaterials.
Distinguished Professor Dayong Jin is a leading academic in nanotechnology and biomedical engineering at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). He holds roles including Director of the Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices (IBMD), ARC Laureate Fellow, and Chair Professor at Southern University of Science and Technology (China). His research focuses on photonics, luminescent materials, and their applications in healthcare, including cancer detection, rapid diagnostics, and super-resolution microscopy. Key innovations include 'Nano Torch' technology for disease detection and 'Super Dots' nanocrystals for imaging and anti-counterfeiting. Education: PhD from Macquarie University (2007). Leadership: Established UTS's IBMD and multiple research hubs, including the ARC IDEAL Research Hub and Australia-China Joint Research Centre. Research Interests: Transforming nanophotonics into diagnostic tools, rapid antigen tests (e.g., for COVID-19), and biomedical devices. His work bridges physics, engineering, and biology to address global health challenges. Awards: Australian Museum Eureka Prize (2015), Prime Minister's Prize for Science (2017), ARC Laureate Fellowship (2021), and Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering. Grants: Overseeing funded projects on quantum biotechnology, deep-tissue imaging, and nanoscale thermometry. Active in interdisciplinary collaborations, including with Chinese institutions. Labs/Teams: Leads IBMD, the ARC IDEAL Hub, and the UTS-SUSTech Joint Research Centre, fostering innovation in wearable biomaterials and point-of-care technologies.
Andrea Pickel is an Assistant Professor at the University of Rochester, holding joint appointments in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, and the Institute of Optics, while also serving as a Scientist at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE). She received her PhD in Mechanical Engineering from UC Berkeley (2019) and a BS from Carnegie Mellon University (2014). Her research focuses on nanoscale heat transfer, leveraging luminescent materials and super-resolution imaging to address challenges in thermal management, catalysis, and energy systems. Education: PhD, Mechanical Engineering, UC Berkeley, 2019 BS, Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 2014 Research interests include luminescence nanothermometry, single-nanoparticle imaging, and high-temperature thermal metrology. Her work integrates experimental methods like stimulated emission depletion (STED) imaging and operando spectroscopy to advance understanding of energy transport at the nanoscale. Notable awards include the NSF CAREER Award (2022), ACS PRF Doctoral New Investigator Award (2020), and Furth Fund Award (2021). She was also named a Scialog Fellow in 2024. Advancing thermal measurement techniques, her group collaborates across disciplines to tackle applications in carbon capture, battery technology, and plasmonic photocatalysis. Current projects emphasize developing dual-mode sensing tools for real-time thermal and chemical monitoring. Labs/Teams: Active at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) and leads the Pickel Research Group in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Prof. Dr. Romain Quidant is a Full Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zürich, where he also serves as Head of the Institute for Energy and Process Engineering. His research focuses on nanophotonics, optomechanics, and plasmonics with applications in quantum optics, biomedical engineering, and thermal control systems. He leads a multidisciplinary team exploring light-matter interactions at the nanoscale, particularly in levitated nanoparticles and plasmonic therapies. Key research interests include quantum optomechanical systems, plasmonic nanothermometry, and targeted photothermal therapies. His work bridges fundamental physics with practical applications such as precision measurement, medical imaging, and energy-efficient materials. Recent studies highlight advancements in optical trapping techniques, thermal wavefront shaping, and robotic surgery guidance using fluorescent nanothermometry. Prof. Quidant’s publications showcase innovations in reconfigurable meta-surfaces, optofluidic platforms for high-throughput analysis, and adaptive thermal microscopy for brain imaging. His lab develops integrated systems for medical diagnostics, environmental sensing, and quantum-enabled technologies. These efforts have been applied to cancer treatment optimization and novel materials for energy systems.
Aleksandra Radenovic is a Full Professor at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) holding multiple positions across the institution. She is a Full Professor at the Laboratory of Nanoscale Biology (LBEN) within the School of Engineering (STI), a Full Professor in Teaching at the School of Life Sciences (SV), and a Full Professor in Teaching at the School of Engineering (STI). Additionally, she serves as Co-Director of both the IBI-STI and IBI-SV administrative units, and is a Member of both the STI School direction and SV School direction. Dr. Radenovic received her PhD from the University of Lausanne in 2003, where she worked with Prof. Dietler in the Laboratory of Physics of Living Matter. Prior to that, she studied physics at the University of Zagreb from 1994-1999, and completed her baccalaureate at a Classical gymnasium in 1994. She conducted postdoctoral research at the University of California, Berkeley from 2004-2007 in the group of Prof. Liphardt. Her research focuses on single molecule biophysics, with particular emphasis on developing techniques and methodologies based on optical imaging, biosensing, and single molecule manipulation. Her laboratory works on three major research directions: (i) developing and using nanopores as platforms for molecular sensing and manipulation, particularly solid-state nanopores in glass nanocapillaries and 2D-material membranes; (ii) studying biomolecular function, especially protein and nucleic acid interactions, using force-based manipulation techniques like optical tweezers and Anti-Brownian Electrokinetic traps; and (iii) developing super-resolution optical microscopy based on single molecule localizations for quantitative cellular imaging. Her work bridges physics, engineering, and biology to create innovative tools for understanding molecular processes at the nanoscale. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on nanofluidics, 2D materials (particularly MoS 2 and hBN), nanopore sensing, super-resolution microscopy, and the development of novel instrumentation for biophysical applications. Her research demonstrates increasing interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating materials science, nanotechnology, and biological applications to address fundamental questions in molecular biophysics. Dr. Radenovic has received numerous prestigious awards and grants, including: 2021: ERC Advanced Grant 2021: Optica Fellow 2016: CCMX Materials challenge award 2015: SNSF-ERC Consolidator Grant 2010: ERC Starting Grant 2003: SNSF Fellowship She has successfully advised numerous PhD students whose research spans single molecule biophysics, nanofluidics, and optical techniques. Her laboratory, the Laboratory of Nanoscale Biology (LBEN), is well-equipped for advanced biophysical research, with capabilities in nanopore fabrication, optical trapping, super-resolution microscopy, and 2D materials characterization. Dr. Radenovic has secured significant research funding through competitive grants, including multiple ERC grants, which have supported her innovative research program at the intersection of physics, engineering, and biology.
Bhanu Jena, Ph.D. (dr. hc. mult.) is the George E. Palade University Professor & Distinguished Professor at Wayne State University School of Medicine, Department of Physiology. He serves as Founder-Director of the Institute of NanoBioScience and maintains his laboratory at 5245 Scott Hall. As the only living University Professor and the second in Wayne State University's 160-year history, Dr. Jena holds one of the most prestigious academic appointments at the institution. Dr. Jena received his B.Sc. from BJB College in Orissa, India (1975), M.Sc. in Reproductive Endocrinology from Utkal University (1978), and Ph.D. in Reproductive Endocrinology from Iowa State University (1988). Following postdoctoral training at Iowa State and Yale Universities (1988-1994), he joined Yale University as an Assistant Professor before moving to Wayne State University in 2000 as a tenured full Professor. Dr. Jena's research centers on molecular and cellular physiology, with a groundbreaking focus on porosomes - the universal secretory machinery in cells that he discovered. His laboratory investigates how cells secrete, challenging traditional views of exocytosis. A second major research focus involves designing novel approaches, techniques, and instrumentation for biological problem-solving, including developing a force microscope capable of imaging intracellular structures at nanometer resolution in real-time. His recent publications reveal an evolving research trajectory spanning cellular secretion mechanisms, Alzheimer's disease therapeutic approaches, cystic fibrosis treatments, antiviral strategies against enveloped viruses, and advanced microscopy techniques. This multidisciplinary work bridges fundamental cell biology with clinical applications across neuroscience, respiratory diseases, and infectious disease. Elected Foreign Member of the Georgian National Academy of Science Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Swebelius Cancer Research Award Sir. Aaron Klug Award ASAS Basic Biological Science Award Ranbaxy Basic Research in Medical Sciences Award Elected Foreign Member of the Korea Academy of Science & Technology George E. Palade Gold Medal Six Honorary Doctorates With over 30 years of instructional experience, Dr. Jena teaches courses in cell biology, nanoscience/nanomedicine, physiology, endocrinology, and biochemistry. His lab receives primary funding from NIH and NSF grants. The Jena Lab continues to pioneer research on cellular nanomachines and their implications for human health, maintaining active collaborations across multiple disciplines while accepting new MS, PhD, and MD/PhD students into its research programs.
Carlos Brites is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Aveiro, Portugal. He holds a PhD from the University of Aveiro (2012) and has conducted post-doctoral research at the University of Zaragoza, Spain. His research focuses on luminescent materials, molecular logic systems, and nanothermometry, with applications in materials characterization and biomedical engineering. Education: BSc in Physics and Chemistry (University of Aveiro, 2004); MSc in Optoelectronics and Lasers (University of Porto, 2007); PhD in Physics (University of Aveiro/University of Zaragoza, 2012). Research interests include lanthanide-based luminescent thermometers, nanoscale thermal probes, and magnetic hyperthermia. He leads the Photonic Hybrids and Nanomaterials Group ( http://hybrids.web.ua.pt ), collaborating with institutions in Spain, Argentina, and beyond. Current projects involve luminescent materials for thermal sensing and energy transfer studies. He supervises PhD students in topics like molecular thermometry and nanomaterial dynamics. His work has been recognized through CICECO's inclusion in global top scientist rankings and contributions to high-impact journals in materials science and chemistry.
Prof. Detlev Ristau is a Professor at the Institute of Quantum Optics within the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics at Leibniz University Hannover. He holds leadership roles including Group Leader for Laser Components and Fibers and is part of the Executive Board of the Institute of Quantum Optics and the PhoenixD Research School. His research focuses on optical thin-film technologies, precision metrology, optical materials, ion deposition processes, laser damage mechanisms, and optical fibers. His work integrates advanced coating techniques, material characterization, and applications in high-power lasers and photonics. Notable contributions include optimizing nanocrystal-based fiber lasers, enhancing laser-induced damage thresholds in optical components, and developing novel thin-film designs for precision applications. He leads interdisciplinary projects in the HITec Institute, emphasizing quantum engineering and optical technologies. Ristau's research spans from fundamental material science to applied photonics, with a strong emphasis on translating innovations into practical optical systems. His publications highlight advancements in nanothermometry, fiber optics, and thin-film fabrication methodologies.
Philip Shields is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering at the University of Bath. He specializes in semiconductor technology, particularly III-V optoelectronics and III-nitride materials. His research encompasses MOVPE growth, nanofabrication techniques including nanoimprint and electron beam lithography, and the development of core-shell LED structures from visible to ultraviolet wavelengths. His publications demonstrate advanced work in GaN-based micro-LED displays, nanorod fabrication, and lithographic patterning innovations. Recent studies focus on optimizing quantum well structures, strain management in LEDs, and novel characterization methods using cathodoluminescence. Active research projects include monolithic integration of microscale laser diodes and displacement Talbot lithography development. He leads EPSRC-funded initiatives on nano-engineered III-N semiconductors and GaAs nanowire growth on silicon substrates.
Freddy Rabouw is an Associate Professor at Utrecht University's Faculty of Science , affiliated with the Debye Institute for Nanomaterials Science . His research bridges Chemistry and Physics , focusing on energy, charge, and mass transport in nanomaterials. Education BSc in Chemistry (2006–2009) MSc in Nanomaterials: Chemistry & Physics (2009–2011) PhD in Chemistry (2011–2015) Postdoc at ETH Zurich (2016–2018) His work develops time-resolved optical microscopy and spectroscopy to study nanomaterials, with applications in quantum cutting for solar cells , energy transfer in rare-earth dopants , single-nanocrystal properties , and molecular diffusion in catalysts . Article trends include quantum dots , upconversion nanocrystals , operando catalyst thermometry , and photonic engineering . Rabouw's lab, the Leonard S. Ornstein Laboratory , investigates excited-state dynamics and defect tolerance in nanomaterials. His secondary teaching roles involve courses like Advanced Microscopy and Quantum Chemistry , reflecting his expertise in quantum materials and diffusionLab motion analysis.
Associate Professor Jiajia Zhou is affiliated with the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), where she holds an ARC Future Fellowship and NHMRC Investigator Grant. Her research focuses on nanophotonics, quantum biotechnology, and biomedical applications of luminescent nanoparticles. She has pioneered advancements in single-particle spectroscopy, upconversion nanoparticles, and their use in medical diagnostics, security inks, and personalized medicine. Education: PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from Zhejiang University (2013). Career milestones include joining China Jiliang University post-PhD and leading UTS's Institute of Biomedical Materials and Devices (IBMD) since 2016. Key projects involve nanoparticle design for improved resolution in imaging and rapid antigen tests, including COVID-19 diagnostics. Research interests span nanotechnology, quantum optics, and bio-imaging. Her work has yielded over 110 publications in top journals like Nature series, with 6,600+ citations (h-index 41). Awards include the 2022 David Syme Research Award and recognition in Eureka Prize finals. She leads grants such as the ARC Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology and quantum triangulation imaging projects. Teaching includes courses like Chemistry and Medical Devices. Supervision opportunities focus on HDR students in quantum-enhanced imaging and nanothermometry. Active editorial roles include Associate Editor at the Journal of Luminescence. Labs/Teams: Institute of Biomedical Materials and Devices (IBMD), part of UTS's Faculty of Science. Her group develops cutting-edge technologies for health diagnostics and nanoscale sensing.
Daniel Ortega Ponce is an Assistant Research Professor (tenure track) at IMDEA Nanociencia , a leading research institute in Spain focused on nanoscience and nanotechnology. He is affiliated with the CNB-IMDEA Nanociencia Associated Unit and holds an honorary position at the UCL Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University College London. His research is centered on the development and application of magnetic nanoparticles for biomedical purposes. His research interests lie at the intersection of nanomagnetism and biomedicine. He specializes in magnetocaloric nanomaterials and magnetic hyperthermia , with applications in cancer therapy, cardiovascular disease, drug delivery, and molecular detection. His work includes the development of in vivo diagnostic tools such as infrared luminescence transient nanothermometry for early tumor detection and treatment planning software for clinical magnetic hyperthermia. The recent publications highlight a strong focus on translational nanomedicine, combining advanced magnetic materials with biological systems for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Key themes include targeted cell delivery , in vivo thermal sensing , and magnetic nanoparticle-based theranostics , primarily applied to oncology and regenerative medicine. Scientific Awards: Intraeuropean Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship Advising and Grants: While no students are listed, Dr. Ortega leads an active research group focused on hyperthermia, indicating mentorship roles. His career has been supported by prestigious grants including a Marie Curie action and positions at internationally recognized institutions such as UCL and The Royal Institution. His ongoing work at IMDEA Nanociencia suggests sustained funding in nanomedicine and magnetic materials research. Labs and Teams: Dr. Ortega is part of the research staff at IMDEA Nanociencia and belongs to the CNB-IMDEA Nanociencia Associated Unit. His group's webpage is dedicated to hyperthermia research, indicating leadership in a specialized team developing magnetic nanoparticle therapies. He has collaborated extensively with institutions in Spain, the UK, and Japan, reflecting a strong international research network.
Marcus Doherty is an Honorary Professor at the Australian National University, affiliated with the Physics Education Centre and leading the Diamond Quantum Science and Technology research program. His career spans theoretical and experimental advancements in diamond-based quantum technologies, including quantum microscopy, computing, and communications. Education: Ph.D. and Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and Science from the University of Melbourne. Research: Focus on optical defects in diamond (particularly NV centers), their theoretical modeling, and applications in quantum technologies. Key Contributions: First self-consistent theory of NV centers, enabling sensitive quantum electrometry, nanothermometry, and biomedical applications like thermoablative cancer therapy. Awards: Ruby-Payne Scott Award (2016), Geoff Opat Award (2015), Chancellor's Prize for Excellence in PhD (2013), and multiple fellowships and grants. Marcus' recent work explores defect discovery, quantum microscopy, and room-temperature quantum computing. His research bridges first-principles defect theory with quantum device design, supported by international collaborations. Scientific awards include: Ruby-Payne Scott Award (2016) Geoff Opat Early Career Prize (2015) Dr Phillip Law AC Postdoctoral Award (2015) Chancellor's Prize for Excellence in PhD Thesis (2013) Nomination for Bragg Gold Medal (2012) Marcus has secured grants from the Australian Research Council (ARC), DAAD-Go8, ANU Major Equipment Committee, and other institutions. He collaborates with leading groups globally, including Harvard University, University of Stuttgart, and University of Ulm.
Luís Carlos is a Full Professor at the Department of Physics, University of Aveiro, and Vice-Director of the Centre for Research in Ceramics and Composite Materials (CICECO). He is a member of the Lisbon Academy of Sciences (Physics) and Brazilian Academy of Sciences (Chemistry). His research focuses on Luminescence Thermometry , Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Materials , and Luminescent/Magnetic Nanoparticles . He pioneered studies in luminescent hybrid materials for solid-state lighting and integrated optics, collaborating with over 40 international research groups. His recent work explores 2024 topics like Nanostructured Thermal Sensors , Lanthanide-Based Photonic Materials , and Multimodal Imaging Probes , as seen in Nano Letters , ACS Nano , and Advanced Materials . Awards include the 2004 FCT Excellence Prize and 2025 Medinaveitia-Lourenço Prize. He has supervised 24 PhD students (7 co-tutelles with Brazil, 5 with France, 2 with Spain) and currently advises 4 PhD and 6 postdocs. His Phantom-G research group maintains global partnerships across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Igor Sokolov is a Professor and Bernard M. Gordon Senior Faculty Fellow at Tufts University, holding joint appointments in the School of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering) and the School of Arts and Sciences (Physics & Astronomy). He leads research in nanotechnology and biomedical engineering, with a focus on cancer diagnostics, biomaterials, and advanced imaging techniques. His work integrates atomic force microscopy (AFM), machine learning, and nanomaterial synthesis to address challenges in healthcare. Education: Ph.D., Soviet Bureau of Standards (Russian NIST), 1991 B.S. with honors, St. Petersburg State University, 1984 Research Interests: Presently focuses on engineering for health, including cancer and aging physics, nanoscale biomaterial mechanics, and biomedical imaging. Past work includes quantum field theory and cosmology. Favorite methods: AFM, confocal microscopy, machine learning. Grants & Awards: Over $20M in funding from NIH, NSF, and others. Notable awards include the E.L. Ginzton Fellowship (Stanford), Graham Research Award, and startup support via MassVentures Acorn Award. Teaching: Courses span mechanics, numerical methods, and nanotechnology. Developed new courses like Forces at the Nanoscale and Scanning Probe Microscopy . Median teaching rating: 4+/5. Labs & Teams: Directed the Nanoengineering and Biotechnology Labs Center at Clarkson University. Active in startup Cellens, Inc., focused on bladder cancer diagnostics. Holds 21 patents and >190 peer-reviewed publications.
