Dr. Kenneth Zick is a Research Professor at the University of Southern California's Information Sciences Institute (USC ISI), where he serves as Research Director of Transformational Computing. His work focuses on game-changing computer architectures, hardware, and systems for solving critical government problems, with expertise in unconventional computing, quantum computing, and bio-inspired systems. Ph.D. in Computer Science & Engineering, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor M.S. in Electrical Engineering, University of Texas at Dallas Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Dr. Zick's research interests span unconventional computing , bio-inspired systems , Ising machines , quantum annealing , FPGA-based solutions , and neuromorphic computing . His group develops hardware-centric algorithm discovery and Cosm, a heuristic algorithm for sparse Ising optimization. Current projects include superconducting digital architectures, analog-digital hybrid computing, and human-AI co-design for breakthrough hardware. His team leverages advanced facilities such as USC ISI's MOSIS 2.0 and the California DREAMS hub in the DoD Microelectronics Commons, with expertise in high-speed I/O, FPGA prototyping, and radiation-hardened systems. He has received a NASA Fellowship for his Ph.D. work and mentored students like Aditi, who won the USC ECE Outstanding Academic Achievement Award.
Professor Jana Zaumseil is a distinguished academic at Heidelberg University, holding the position of Professor for Applied Physical Chemistry at the Faculty of Chemistry and Earth Sciences since 2014. She also maintains a co-opted position with the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy since 2016. Currently serving as Executive Director of the Institute for Physical Chemistry and Spokesperson for the DFG Research Training Group GRK 2948, she leads the Zaumseil research group (also known as the Nanomaterials for Optoelectronics group) at Heidelberg University's Institute for Physical Chemistry. Her educational background includes a PhD in Physics from the University of Cambridge (2003-2007) with a Gates Cambridge Trust Scholarship, and a Diplom (equivalent to M.Sc.) in Chemistry from the University of Leipzig (1997-2022). Prior to her position at Heidelberg, she served as Professor for Nanoelectronics at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (2009-2014), and completed postdoctoral work at Argonne National Laboratory (2007-2009) following an internship at Bell Laboratories (2002-2003). Zaumseil's research program focuses on the optical and electronic properties of carbon-based nanomaterials, particularly single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and organic semiconductors. Her group specializes in processing, functionalization, characterization and application of these unconventional semiconductors for optoelectronic devices and sensors. They investigate charge transport and light-matter interaction using a wide range of experimental techniques including synthesis, optical spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, device fabrication, and electrical/optical device characterization. Their work bridges fundamental understanding with potential applications in sensing, imaging, circuits, and energy conversion. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong trend toward defect engineering in carbon nanotubes, particularly creating and optimizing luminescent sp 3 defects for near-infrared applications. Her research increasingly integrates fundamental studies of charge transport with practical device applications, especially in neuromorphic computing, biosensors, and thermoelectrics. The interdisciplinary nature of her work is evident in the combination of chemistry, physics, and materials science approaches across her publication record. Dan Maydan Prize for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (2024) Jahrespreis der Universität Heidelberg (2023) ERC Consolidator Grant (2019) ERC Starting Grant (2012) Alfried-Krupp-Award for Young University Professors (2010) Professor Zaumseil has secured substantial research funding including multiple ERC grants and leads several major collaborative projects such as the ERC Advanced Grant SCALE-NT, Collaborative Research Center SFB 1249, Cluster of Excellence 3D Matter Made to Order, and Research Training Group GRK 2948. She has mentored numerous doctoral and master's students, with her group recently receiving recognition including a Student Poster Presentation Award for Niklas Herrmann. As Dean of the Faculty of Chemistry and Earth Science (2019-2021) and current Vice Dean (2021-), she has played significant leadership roles within the university structure. The Zaumseil research group operates within Heidelberg University's Institute for Physical Chemistry, utilizing advanced facilities for nanomaterial synthesis, optical spectroscopy, and device characterization. The group participates in several major collaborative initiatives including the Cluster of Excellence 3D Matter Made to Order and the Collaborative Research Center SFB 1249, reflecting its integration within Heidelberg's broader research ecosystem focused on molecular systems and materials science.
Prof. Thomas Mussenbrock is a Full Professor (W3) of Applied Electrodynamics and Plasma Technology at Ruhr University Bochum, leading the Applied Electrodynamics and Plasma Technology department within the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology. He holds a PhD from Ruhr University Bochum (2004) and habilitation (2009), previously serving as a professor at Brandenburg University of Technology (2016-2020). His research focuses on low-temperature plasmas, nanoelectronics, and plasma modeling, with applications in material processing and energy systems. Education: Bachelor's (1995) Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences Master's (1999) Ruhr University Bochum PhD (2004) Ruhr University Bochum Habilitation (2009) Ruhr University Bochum His research interests include plasma dynamics in atmospheric pressure jets, memristive devices for neuromorphic computing, and energy-efficient plasma processes. Recent work emphasizes CO₂ conversion via plasma jets, electron dynamics in capacitive discharges, and scalable plasma modeling techniques. He collaborates on projects like the TopING doctoral program and plasma catalysis initiatives. Publications span journals and conferences, with a focus on experimental and computational plasma physics. He advises on graduate studies and chairs faculty committees at Ruhr University Bochum.
Prof. Ilia Polian serves as Head of the Institute of Computer Engineering and Chair of the Hardware-Oriented Computer Science (HOCOS) department at the University of Stuttgart. His leadership spans research, teaching, and institutional coordination across multiple high-impact projects. Prof. Polian's research focuses on developing circuit and system architectures based on both traditional and novel principles, including neuromorphic, stochastic, and approximate architectures. His second major research focus is systematic design methodology and design automation, with particular emphasis on safety and reliability properties of developed systems. Current research directions include quantum computing engineering, secure mixed-signal neural networks, and resource-efficient stochastic circuits for near-sensor computing applications. His recent publications demonstrate strong trends in quantum computing (particularly circuit partitioning and compilation for multi-QPU architectures), hardware security (including memristive cryptographic implementations), and AI-driven approaches to hardware testing and reliability. These works bridge fundamental computer architecture research with practical industrial applications. University of Stuttgart's Publication Prize for Paper on Partitioning of Quantum Circuits Prof. Polian actively supervises doctoral students including Devanshi Upadhyaya, and leads significant research grants such as the DFG Priority Program Nano Security which he coordinates. His department offers numerous thesis and research opportunities for students interested in cutting-edge hardware research. The Hardware-Oriented Computer Science department maintains strong collaborations with industry partners including IBM, Infineon Technologies, and Advantest, as well as academic institutions through the IQST Graduate School and QuantumBW initiatives.
Dr.-Ing Alexander Vahl is a Researcher at the Technical Faculty of Kiel University, leading the subgroup Nanoparticles for Nanocomposites . He specializes in advanced materials science, focusing on nanoparticle synthesis, functional thin films, and neuromorphic engineering. His research bridges nanotechnology with applications in memristive systems and plasmonics, emphasizing strain-invariant conductors and photocatalytic growth mechanisms. Key projects include developing self-assembled nano-object networks for brain-inspired computing and optimizing gas aggregation cluster sources for novel material fabrication. His work spans disciplines such as memristive switching, plasmonic metasurfaces, and bio-inspired electronics. Notable contributions include studies on silver/polymer nanofluids, ITO-TiO₂ heterojunctions, and multicomponent nanoparticle synthesis. Vahl collaborates with the Chair for Functional Nanotechnology, leveraging interdisciplinary expertise to advance materials innovation. His articles highlight advancements in neuromorphic systems, photocatalytic deposition, and thin-film technologies. The research emphasizes scalability and real-world applications, such as energy-efficient sensors and hybrid zinc batteries. Vahl’s subgroup webpage and extensive publications reflect a commitment to pushing boundaries in nanomaterials engineering.
Konstantinos Nikitopoulos is a Professor at the University of Surrey , UK, specializing in Wireless Communications and Signal Processing . His research focuses on MIMO Systems , Open-RAN , and Non-Linear Processing for next-generation wireless networks. His recent work explores Analogue Processing for Tbps Wireless Systems and Neuromorphic Computing in MU-MIMO detection. He has developed frameworks like MIMO-SoftiPHY and SACCESS for software-based radio acceleration and power-efficient network design. Key Publications : Power-Efficient RIC, NL-COMM, NeuroMIMO Collaborators : Rahim Tafazolli, George Katsaros, Marcin Filo His research impacts 6G Network Development through innovations in Beamforming , Channel Estimation , and Software-Defined Radios .
Prof. Akash Kumar is a Professor at the Chair of Embedded Systems at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany. He previously held professorships at TU Dresden (2015–2024) and the National University of Singapore (NUS; 2011–2015). His research focuses on design automation of embedded systems, reliability optimization, and approximate computing, with a strong emphasis on FPGA and emerging technologies. He leads projects such as Lean-MICS (DFG-funded) and SecuREFET-II, addressing cross-layer reliability and secure circuits. Education: PhD in Multimedia Multiprocessor Systems from Eindhoven University of Technology (TUe) and NUS (2005–2009), Master of Technological Design (Embedded Systems) from NUS (2003–2004), and B.Eng (Computer Engineering) from NUS (1999–2002, First Class Honours). Research interests span embedded systems, reconfigurable architectures, and hardware-software co-design. His work includes optimizing energy efficiency, fault tolerance, and cross-layer approximation techniques. Recent publications highlight advancements in FPGA-based accelerators, machine learning optimizations, and mixed-criticality systems. Active in grants and leadership, Kumar is Principal Investigator on multiple DFG and industry-funded projects, emphasizing collaborative research in distributed computing and approximate architectures. His contributions bridge theory and practice, with applications in edge AI, IoT, and cybersecurity.
Prof. Dr. Moritz Helias is a University Professor and leads the Theory of Multi-Scale Neuronal Networks group at the Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6), Computational and Systems Neuroscience, Forschungszentrum Jülich. His research bridges biological and artificial neural networks, focusing on dynamics, information processing, and the physics of AI. The group is part of a larger interdisciplinary institute that integrates theory, simulation, and data analysis to understand the brain. Institution: Forschungszentrum Jülich School: Institute for Advanced Simulation Department: IAS-6, Computational and Systems Neuroscience Position: Professor and Group Leader Email: m.helias@fz-juelich.de His research interests lie at the intersection of statistical physics and neuroscience. He investigates how structure shapes dynamics in both biological and artificial networks, aiming to uncover general principles of information processing. Using methods from statistical physics, his work enables a unified framework for understanding collective phenomena, learning, and generalization. Key areas include spiking neural networks, renormalized field theory, and the theoretical foundations of AI. The recent publications reflect a strong trend toward multi-scale modeling of neural systems, integrating statistical physics with neuroscience. Topics include spiking network dynamics, mean-field theory, renormalization, and applications of machine learning in physics. The work spans biological realism and artificial intelligence, with implications for neuromorphic computing and brain-inspired AI architectures. While no scientific awards are listed in the provided texts, his group actively contributes to open science through tools like NEST and theoretical frameworks that influence both neuroscience and AI. Prof. Helias supervises a research group focused on theoretical and computational approaches, contributing to collaborative projects involving large-scale simulations and data analysis. His team works closely with experimentalists and theorists to validate models and advance understanding of brain function. The group is also involved in developing simulation technologies and theoretical tools that support reproducible neuroscience. The Theory of Multi-Scale Neuronal Networks group is embedded within a vibrant research environment at IAS-6, collaborating with teams in statistical neuroscience, computational neurophysics, and future simulation architectures. This fosters a loop between data, theory, and simulation, enabling cutting-edge research on brain function and artificial intelligence.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Marc Reichenbach serves as the Chair of Integrated Systems at the Institute for Applied Microelectronics and Data Technology at the University of Rostock. His office is located at Albert-Einstein-Straße 26, 18059 Rostock, Room 102 (1st floor), with contact information including telephone (0381) 498 7270 and email marc.reichenbach@uni-rostock.de. Professor Reichenbach's research focuses on the intersection of hardware design and artificial intelligence, with particular expertise in memory technologies and computing architectures. His work spans several key areas: Development of specialized computer architectures for deep learning applications Advanced VLSI design and CPU architecture Emerging memory technologies, particularly RRAM (Resistive Random-Access Memory) FPGA-based acceleration systems Hardware implementations for neural networks and AI applications Analysis of Professor Reichenbach's recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong focus on memory computing technologies, particularly RRAM-based systems. His work demonstrates expertise across multiple dimensions of computer architecture including ASIC design, FPGA acceleration, and novel memory systems. The publications show a clear trajectory toward implementing AI and machine learning capabilities directly in hardware, with applications ranging from edge computing to satellite systems. A significant portion of his recent work addresses the challenges of implementing neural networks using emerging memory technologies, focusing on efficiency, reliability, and performance optimization. Professor Reichenbach teaches several advanced courses including: Computer architectures for deep learning applications Project seminar Embedded Systems Advanced VLSI Design (Advanced CPU Design) His research group appears to be actively engaged in several cutting-edge projects related to hardware acceleration for AI applications, memory computing, and embedded systems design. The group collaborates on projects involving digital twins for hardware systems, real-time operating systems for heterogeneous architectures, and specialized computing systems for various applications from medical devices to drone technology.
Dr.-Ing. Ullrich Mönich is a Senior Researcher and Lecturer at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) , affiliated with the Chair of Theoretical Information Technology and leading research activities at the Advanced Communication Systems and Embedded Security Lab (ACES Lab) . Since 2019, he has been instrumental in shaping experimental and theoretical research in 6G communications, physical layer security, and signal processing. Education: Dr.-Ing. in Electrical Engineering, Technische Universität München (2011) – supervised by Prof. Holger Boche Previous affiliations include MIT (2012–2015) and TU Berlin Research Focus: His research spans signal processing, wireless communications, machine learning, and sampling theory , with a strong emphasis on physical layer security , computability in signal processing , and 6G communications . He explores theoretical foundations and practical implementations, including neuromorphic computing, digital twinning, and secure modular coding schemes. Publications & Trends: His recent publications (2023–2025) are heavily concentrated in 6G communications , integrated sensing and communications (ISAC) , semantic physical layer security , and digital twinning . These works often combine theoretical analysis with experimental validation using 5G/6G testbeds and neuromorphic hardware. Teaching & Supervision: Regularly teaches "Foundations of Analog, Digital, and Quantum Computers" (tutorials since 2018) Previously taught "Applied Functional Analysis" and "Advanced Signal Theory" Involved in practical courses like "Software Defined Radio Laboratory" Labs & Teams: He leads the ACES Lab at TUM, which focuses on experimental validation of advanced communication systems, including physical layer security, neuromorphic computing, and 6G testbeds. The lab collaborates with national and international partners, including MIT, and is supported by major funding bodies such as the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the German Research Foundation (DFG).
Prof. Emre Neftci holds the Chair of Neuromorphic Software Ecosystem at the Peter Grünberg Institute (PGI) within Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany, where he leads research at the intersection of neuromorphic engineering and software development for brain-inspired computing systems. His primary research domains include: Neuromorphic Computing architectures Artificial intelligence algorithms for spiking neural networks Machine learning optimization for low-power hardware Software ecosystem development for specialized accelerators He focuses on creating robust software frameworks that enable efficient deployment of neuromorphic hardware in real-world applications, emphasizing energy efficiency and scalability. Prof. Neftci's institutional work centers on advancing the software stack for next-generation computing paradigms through the Neuromorphic Software Ecosystem chair, facilitating collaboration between hardware developers and application scientists. Contact: e.neftci@fz-juelich.de
Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Rainer Leupers is a faculty member at RWTH Aachen University, chairing the Department of Software for Systems on Silicon. His research focuses on embedded systems, hardware-software co-design, virtual prototyping, and security in computing-in-memory architectures. He has published extensively on RRAM accelerators, logic locking, and neuromorphic security. Chair of Software for Systems on Silicon Research in hardware security and deep learning accelerators Recent publications on cross-tool virtual frameworks and thermal side-channel attacks His work bridges system-level modeling with practical security implementations, emphasizing reliability and performance in heterogeneous computing environments. Key trends in his 2025-2023 articles include compute-in-memory optimization, neural network inference efficiency, and security vulnerabilities in emerging hardware. Awards and formal recognitions are not explicitly detailed in the provided materials. He has not directly mentioned advising students or research grants in the given text fragments. The chair's contact information includes an office at ICT Cube 1, Electrical Engineering, Aachen, with direct email and website links.
Prof. Dr. Regina Dittmann is the Director of the Electronic Materials division (PGI-7) at the Peter Grünberg Institute (PGI), part of the Research Center Jülich. Her research focuses on memristive systems, resistive switching phenomena, and neuromorphic computing architectures. She leads a team exploring novel oxide materials and their applications in advanced electronics, including memristive heterostructures, nanoelectronics, and energy-efficient computing systems. Her work integrates materials science, device physics, and computational modeling to develop next-generation memory and neuromorphic hardware. Key research areas include the design and characterization of memristive devices, understanding ion migration in perovskite materials, and optimizing thermal and electronic stability in nanoscale systems. Recent studies emphasize the role of space charge effects in metal exsolution, the development of fault-tolerant neuromorphic architectures, and the application of synchrotron-based techniques for in-situ material analysis. Her contributions have advanced the theoretical and practical foundations of resistive switching mechanisms and their implementation in energy-efficient computing systems.
Heike Riel serves as IBM Fellow, Head of Science of Quantum and Information Technology, and Lead of IBM Research Quantum Europe at IBM Research. Her work focuses on quantum computing, nanoscale electronics, and optoelectronic device innovation. PhD in Physics (University of Bayreuth, 2003) MBA (Henley Business School, 2010) Research interests center on quantum computing hardware, nanoscale device engineering, and neuromorphic computing technologies. Her publications demonstrate expertise in semiconductor-metal interfaces, superconducting quantum devices, and nanowire-based systems. Article keywords include Quantum Physics , Nanotechnology , and Materials Science with sub-fields spanning spin qubit control , Josephson junction dynamics , and hybrid quantum systems . TR100 (2003) IEEE Andrew S. Grove Award (2022) National Academy of Engineering (2022) Riel advises academic institutions as member of review committees and serves on Germany's Forschungszentrum Jülich Scientific Advisory Council. She has filed over 50 patents in semiconductor technologies and led the development of 20" full-color OLED displays.
Nele Mentens is a full professor at both KU Leuven and Leiden University, where she leads cutting-edge research in applied cryptography, hardware security, and secure embedded systems. At KU Leuven, she is affiliated with the Faculty of Engineering Technology and the Electrical Engineering Department (ESAT), leading the Emerging Technologies, Systems & Security (ES&S) research group at the Diepenbeek campus. Simultaneously, she holds a full professorship at Leiden University’s Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS), focusing on applied cryptography and security. She has been instrumental in numerous national and international research initiatives, including Horizon Europe and NWO-funded projects. Full Professor, KU Leuven (since 2023) Full Professor, Leiden University (since 2020) Associate Professor, KU Leuven (2014–2023) Post-doctoral Researcher & Lecturer, KHLim / KU Leuven (2007–2014) Ph.D. in Engineering Science, KU Leuven (2007) M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering, KU Leuven (2003) Her research focuses on secure and efficient hardware design, particularly for cryptographic applications on FPGAs, reconfigurable architectures, IoT security, and neuromorphic computing. She explores physical attack resistance, side-channel analysis protection, and trusted computing architectures, with applications in healthcare, industrial monitoring, and endpoint AI. Her work bridges theoretical cryptography with practical hardware implementations, emphasizing energy efficiency and real-time performance. The 15 most recent publications reflect a strong trend toward secure, energy-efficient, and intelligent embedded systems. Topics include neuromorphic AI accelerators, trusted IoT architectures, dynamic reconfiguration for side-channel protection, and secure medical data processing. These works span disciplines such as computer architecture, cybersecurity, digital design, and embedded systems, with a focus on hardware-software co-design and real-world deployment. Nele Mentens has received recognition for her contributions, including: Best Paper Award, DATE'16 Best Paper Nomination, AsianHOST'17 Best Paper Award, CHES'19 She has supervised over 15 Ph.D. students and post-docs, both current and former, and has served as principal investigator in approximately 25 funded research projects. Her work has attracted significant grants from Horizon Europe, NWO, FWO, and national innovation programs. She actively contributes to the academic community through editorial roles in top journals and leadership in major conferences. Nele Mentens leads the ES&S research group at KU Leuven and collaborates closely with LIACS at Leiden University. Her team includes Ph.D. students, post-docs, and research experts working on projects like NimbleAI, NeuroSoC, and TrustedIoT. She has also established secure electronics labs through infrastructure grants and maintains strong international ties with institutions such as EPFL, Ruhr University Bochum, and ETH Zurich.
