Professor João Quinta da Fonseca is a Professor of Mechanical Metallurgy in the Department of Materials at The University of Manchester. He leads the LightForm project, a multidisciplinary initiative supported by the EPSRC, and is affiliated with the Materials Performance Centre and Dalton Nuclear Institute. His research focuses on microstructural-scale metal deformation mechanics, crystal plasticity modeling, and in-situ characterization using synchrotron/neutron diffraction. He chairs the IOM3 Advanced Metal Forming Committee and collaborates with industries like Rolls-Royce and Airbus. Education: PhD in Mechanical Behavior of High Volume Fraction MMCs from the University of Leeds. Academic Line Manager in the Department of Materials and EDI committee member. Research Interests: Experimental mechanics, texture analysis, phase transformations, and computational modeling. Pioneered HRDIC for sub-micron deformation measurement. Key applications include aerospace and energy sectors. Grants & Projects: Active grants include Rotational Vibration Assisted Increment Sheet Forming (EPSRC-funded) and collaborations on jet engine materials. Over 150 publications and datasets on magnesium alloys, titanium, and superalloys. Labs/Teams: Leads the Mechanical Metallurgy group, part of the Centre for Light Alloy Research and Innovation (CLARI).
Harald Pichler is an Associate Professor and Team Leader at the Institute of Biotechnology (IMBT) at Graz University of Technology. His research focuses on membrane biology, enzyme engineering, and industrial biotechnology using yeast systems like Pichia pastoris . Key projects include engineering microbial membranes for protein secretion, optimizing biocatalysts for terpenoid synthesis, and studying lipid interactions with membrane proteins. Collaborations with companies like DSM and LONZA highlight industrial applications of his work. Research interests span microbial membrane modifications, sterol biosynthesis, and metabolic engineering for producing valuable metabolites. Major contributions include developing yeast strains for high-throughput screening of terpenoids and engineering hydratases for biocatalytic applications. His team also explores protein secretion pathways and membrane protein expression in yeasts, with patent filings for key genetic targets. Current projects involve lipid raft dynamics, SARS-CoV-2 spike protein interactions with membranes, and low-cost cell culture media alternatives. Collaborations with academic partners like the University of Geneva and Wageningen University emphasize interdisciplinary approaches. Publications frequently address membrane biophysics, enzyme mechanisms, and yeast strain engineering, reflecting a blend of fundamental and applied research.
Mingda Li is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), holding the Class of 1947 Career Development Professorship. His research spans quantum materials, nanoscale energy transport, and AI-driven materials discovery, utilizing neutron/X-ray scattering techniques and machine learning to address challenges in quantum computing, thermal management, and energy conversion. He leads the Quantum Measurement Group and teaches graduate courses including Quantum Theory of Materials Characterization. Education: Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics, Tsinghua University, 2009 Doctor of Philosophy in Nuclear Science and Engineering, MIT, 2015 Postdoctoral Research, MIT Mechanical Engineering Department Research Interests: Dr. Li's quantum research develops theoretical frameworks for topological order and defect-engineered quantum materials, with applications in microelectronics and quantum computing. His energy transport studies investigate phonon/electron dynamics at interfaces under non-equilibrium conditions to design materials for thermal management in electronics. The AI program creates symmetry-aware generative models that integrate ab initio calculations with experimental data, enabling closed-loop materials discovery for quantum and energy technologies. Publication Trends: Analysis of 15 recent 2025 publications reveals dominant themes in quantum materials (topological semimetals, 2D magnets), AI-driven design (generative models, symmetry-equivariant networks), and advanced characterization (neutron/X-ray spectroscopy). Key innovations include defect engineering for thermal transport, machine learning for spectroscopic data interpretation, and quantum phenomenon discovery in complex materials, reflecting strong interdisciplinary integration. Scientific Awards: No scientific awards were mentioned in the provided text. Advising and Grants: Dr. Li mentors graduate students in the Quantum Measurement Group, guiding research in quantum materials characterization and AI applications. He has taught core courses including Applied Nuclear Physics and Machine Learning in Nuclear Science and Engineering. His research is supported by grants focused on quantum engineering and nuclear materials, with collaborations spanning national laboratories and industry partners for quantum computing and energy applications. Labs and Teams: The Quantum Measurement Group operates at the intersection of experimental physics and computational science, utilizing neutron scattering facilities (including Spallation Neutron Source) and ultrafast X-ray techniques. The team develops custom software for data analysis and collaborates with institutions like MIT.nano for materials synthesis, maintaining a pipeline from theoretical prediction to device-level validation for quantum and thermoelectric materials.
Andreas Honecker is a Professor at the Theoretical Physics and Modeling Laboratory (CNRS UMR 8089) of CY Cergy Paris Université, where he has been employed since September 2014. He currently serves as Adjoint Director of the Institut des Sciences et Techniques (since April 2023) and was previously Director of the Physics Department (October 2020-April 2023). He also co-directs the Master Program in Physics at CY Cergy Paris Université. Professor Honecker's research focuses on condensed matter physics, particularly strongly correlated electron systems, quantum magnetism, and magnetocaloric materials. His work bridges theoretical physics with practical applications in quantum information and low-temperature refrigeration. He has made significant contributions to understanding quantum phase transitions, frustrated spin systems, and the magnetocaloric effect, with a notable Nature publication in 2021 on critical points in SrCu 2 (BO 3 ) 2 . His research activities are characterized by a strong emphasis on numerical methods for many-body systems, including quantum Monte Carlo techniques, density matrix renormalization group approaches, and advanced diagonalization methods. He has organized numerous international workshops on quantum materials, magnetocaloric effects, and quantum information, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of his work. Among his notable recognitions are the APS Outstanding Referee award (2019) and being named a distinguished referee of The European Physical Journal (2015). He previously held a prestigious Heisenberg fellowship from the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (2007-2011). Honecker has extensive experience in academic service, including membership in the Conseil National des Universités (section 29, 2017-2023) and the Commission de la formation et de la vie universitaire at Université de Cergy-Pontoise (2016-2019). His collaborative work spans institutions across Europe, including previous positions at Göttingen University, ETH Zürich, and TU Braunschweig.
Dr. Siul Ruiz is a Lecturer at the University of Southampton, affiliated with the Bioengineering Group. His research focuses on physical processes in soils and biological systems, including solid/fluid mechanics, mass/energy transport, and imaging techniques like X-ray computed tomography (XCT) and neutron radiography. He develops mathematical models to study soil biomechanics, biofilm dynamics in plants, and the impact of fertilisers on crop nutrition. Current projects include quantifying soil biomechanics via X-ray diffraction and modeling olive tree resistance to Xylella fastidiosa. Funded by the Royal Society and BBSRC, his work bridges applied mathematics, mechanical engineering, and environmental science. Education: MSc in applied mathematics and mechanical engineering (focus on soft robotics). Research Interests: Soil-plant interactions, biofilm modeling, and biophysical constraints in ecological systems. His recent publications explore topics like phosphate removal mechanisms in soil, Xylella fastidiosa biofilm spread in olive trees, and high-throughput analysis of plant stem structures. He supervises two PhD students in Engineering and the Environment. Dr. Ruiz aims to extend biomechanical quantification techniques for broader applications, leveraging interdisciplinary approaches.
Dr Dylan Cuskelly is a Lecturer in the School of Engineering at the University of Newcastle, Australia. His research focuses on advanced materials development for energy storage and sustainable manufacturing, alongside STEM education innovation. He co-founded MGA Thermal, a company commercializing thermal energy storage materials derived from miscibility gap alloys (MGAs). Education: PhD in Mechanical Engineering (University of Newcastle, 2015) Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) (Hons) (University of Newcastle, 2009) Research Interests: Development of novel materials for energy storage applications Synthesis of MAX/MAB phase ceramics and metal alloys Economical material production processes Integration of renewable energy storage solutions STEM education pedagogy and curriculum design Grants & Awards: 2022: iSTEM Zero to Hero grant (Google Australia, $11,863) 2019: Optimisation of Thermal Energy Storage grant (MGA Thermal, $192,000) 2017: Excellence in Teaching and Learning Award (University of Newcastle) Collaborations: Active partnerships with industry (MGA Thermal, Sunburnt Space Co), academia (University of Melbourne), and international research networks. Labs/Teams: Leads the Advanced Materials Group at Newcastle, focusing on thermal energy storage materials and sustainable manufacturing processes.
Peter Hedström is a Professor of Materials Science at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, KTH Royal Institute of Technology. He leads the Hultgren Laboratory for Materials Characterization and directs the Center for X-rays in Swedish Materials Science (CeXS) and the Vinnova competence center NEXT. His research focuses on advanced materials characterization, structure-property relations, and materials design, particularly in metallic alloys, steels, ceramics, and composites. He co-founded companies Ferritico and Scatterin based on his research. Hedström’s work leverages large-scale infrastructure like synchrotron and neutron methods, with key projects including ENDUREIT for improving duplex stainless steels and Track-AM for additive manufacturing analysis. Education: PhD from Luleå University of Technology. Earlier roles at MEFOS/Swerim before joining KTH in 2008. Research Interests: Phase transformations, materials characterization (e.g., synchrotron/X-ray/neutron techniques), additive manufacturing, machine learning applications, and fatigue mechanics. His group explores topics like low-temperature embrittlement, microstructure-strength relationships, and cemented carbide sintering. Articles Trends: Recent work emphasizes in-situ observations of phase separation, precipitation kinetics, and microstructural stability under fatigue. Studies often integrate computational modeling with experimental methods, highlighting interdisciplinary approaches. Grants/Projects: Directs CeXS (hosting the Swedish beamline P21 at PETRA III) and NEXT. Active in EIT Raw Materials (ENDUREIT) and MMD initiatives. Supervises PhD/postdoc projects in neutron scattering, Mg-AM, and machine learning. Labs/Teams: Hultgren Laboratory, SwedNess graduate school, and collaborations with industrial partners like Ferritico.
Mariela Martins Nolasco is an Assistant Researcher at the Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro. She specializes in computational spectroscopy, focusing on bridging theoretical and experimental research through combined computational and spectroscopic methods. Her work emphasizes understanding molecular dynamics in materials like deep eutectic solvents, polymers, and luminescent systems. Education: B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering (1999), M.Sc. in Chemistry (2004), Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (2007), all from University of Aveiro. Research Interests: Computational Spectroscopy, Neutron Scattering, Deep Eutectic Solvents, Polymer Dynamics, Cellulosic Materials. She has led 9 R&D projects (2 national, 7 international) and contributed to 15 others. Notable collaborations include work at ISIS Neutron & Muon Source (UK) and Institut Laue-Langevin (France). Her awards include the 2021 ISIS Impact Award for societal impact in polymer research.
Stephan Rosenkranz is a Research Fellow and Group Leader at the Materials Science Division of Argonne National Laboratory, where he has been a key figure in advancing neutron and synchrotron x-ray scattering techniques since 2002. He holds a Ph.D. in Physics from ETH Zurich (1997) and a Diploma in Experimental Physics (1992) from the same institution. Educational Background Ph.D. in Physics, ETH Zurich (1997) Diploma (with distinction) in Experimental Physics, ETH Zurich (1992) His research focuses on probing short-range spin, charge, and lattice correlations in strongly correlated electron systems using neutron and x-ray scattering methods. He has led the development of the CORELLI instrument at Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Spallation Neutron Source and pioneered novel approaches to model correlated disorder from diffraction data. Recent publication trends highlight his expertise in charge density waves, spin density waves, and geometrically frustrated magnets. His work integrates experimental scattering with machine learning for big data analysis, particularly in quantum materials like nickelates, iron pnictides, and superconductors. Scientific Awards ETH Pólya Prize (1992) ETH Zurich Medal (1997) University of Chicago Distinguished Performance Award (2006) Fellow of the American Physical Society (2013) Fellow of the Neutron Scattering Society of America (2018) As Co-Director of the National School on Neutron and X-ray Scattering (2018–2024) and former President of the Neutron Scattering Society of America (2013–2016), Rosenkranz plays a pivotal role in training and governance in scattering sciences. He has contributed to beamline reviews, grant panels, and international workshops on competing interactions in transition metal compounds. His leadership extends to the development of advanced x-ray and neutron instrumentation and fostering collaborations between Argonne, Northern Illinois University, and the University of Illinois Chicago through graduate faculty appointments.
Flora Meilleur serves as a Neutron Scattering Scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) working on the IMAGINE and MaNDi diffractometers (HFIR CG-4D and SNS BL-11B), and holds a joint appointment as Associate Professor in the Biochemistry Department at North Carolina State University since 2007. She joined ORNL in 2005 after completing her PhD and has been instrumental in developing neutron scattering capabilities for structural biology research. Dr. Meilleur earned her Ph.D. in Structural Biology from the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and Université Grenoble Alpes (Grenoble, France) in 2004. Prior to joining ORNL, she served as an instrument scientist at the Institut Laue Langevin (ILL) on the LADI diffractometer. She was promoted to Associate Professor at NCSU in 2015 and established a university consortium that secured NSF funding to build the IMAGINE instrument at HFIR in 2009, serving as lead scientist for this project from 2009-2017. Her research focuses on applying neutron scattering techniques to understand enzymatic mechanisms, particularly in cellulose-degrading enzymes including lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases. She leads projects on cellulose deconstruction for biofuel production, nylon depolymerization, and enzyme immobilization in biopolymer matrices. Her laboratory employs a multidisciplinary approach combining X-ray and neutron diffraction and scattering, DFT calculations, and isotopic labeling techniques to study protein structure, dynamics, and function. Current research includes characterizing nylon hydrolases in collaboration with Dr. Josh Michener and studying biopolymer matrices as part of the BIG collaboration funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. Analysis of Dr. Meilleur's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on advancing neutron scattering methodologies for structural biology, with particular emphasis on enzymatic mechanisms in biomass degradation. Her work spans fundamental method development (beamline instrumentation, sample environments) to biological applications (viral proteins, polymer-degrading enzymes). A notable trend is the expansion of neutron techniques to study challenging biological questions, including time-resolved studies and complex enzyme systems, with increasing applications to viral research as evidenced by her SARS-CoV-2 related publications. 2013 ORNL Significant Event Award (Team award for construction and commissioning of CG4-D beamline and IMAGINE instrument; Role: Science lead) Dr. Meilleur has mentored numerous graduate students and post-doctoral fellows who utilize small angle X-ray/neutron scattering, X-ray/neutron crystallography, and computational methods in their research. She serves as Editor for the Journal of Applied Crystallography (2015-present) and was appointed as a main editor in 2021. She also mentors for the IUCr Early Career Board (2025-present) and previously served as Secretary of the Neutron Scattering Society of America (2019-2022). She has organized and led the annual 'Neutrons in Structural Biology' workshop at ORNL since 2010, fostering community development in this specialized field. Dr. Meilleur leads the Meilleur lab at NC State which focuses on structural enzymology using neutron scattering techniques. Her laboratory collaborates extensively with researchers at ORNL's High Flux Isotope Reactor and Spallation Neutron Source facilities. She has served on multiple professional committees including the SNS/HFIR user committee (SHUG) from 2007-2009 and as a member-at-large of the NSSA between 2008-2012, demonstrating sustained leadership in the neutron scattering community.
Associate Professor Chris Wensrich is a faculty member in the School of Engineering at the University of Newcastle, specializing in Mechanical Engineering. He holds a PhD, Bachelor of Mathematics, and Bachelor of Engineering from the same university. His research focuses on granular mechanics, neutron diffraction, and strain tomography, with pioneering work in Bragg-edge transmission strain tomography and granular dynamics modeling. Wensrich has held visiting appointments at Clare Hall College, Cambridge University, and the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences in the UK. He currently serves as President of the Australian Neutron Beam User Group (ANBUG) and is a member of the ACNS Program Advisory Team at ANSTO. His expertise spans applied mechanics, computational modeling (DEM), and experimental techniques involving neutron diffraction. His research interests include granular material behavior, stress distribution measurement, and validation of computational models using neutron imaging. Notable contributions include studies on silo quaking dynamics, force chain analysis in granular assemblies, and residual stress characterization in additive manufacturing. Wensrich has supervised 11 PhD students and secured over $5.4M in grants, including ARC Discovery Projects and industry-linked initiatives. Publications span granular mechanics, strain tomography, and material characterization, with over 60 journal articles and 38 conference papers. His work bridges theoretical, computational, and experimental methods to advance understanding of particulate systems and engineering materials.
Poul Ægidius Norby is a Professor in the Department of Energy Conversion and Storage at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), where he leads research in structural analysis and modelling of energy materials. His work spans battery technology, electrocatalysis, and advanced diffraction techniques for in situ characterization. Position: Professor Institution: Technical University of Denmark (DTU) Department: Department of Energy Conversion and Storage Research Group: Structural Analysis and Modelling Location: Fysikvej 310, 422, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark His research focuses on the fundamental understanding of materials for sustainable energy technologies, particularly using X-ray and neutron diffraction to study battery operation in real time. He contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to clean and affordable energy. Recent publications highlight his work on solid-state batteries, sodium-ion anodes from biomass, high-entropy alloy electrocatalysts, and spatial inhomogeneity in lithium diffusion. These studies reflect a strong trend toward operando characterization, sustainable materials synthesis, and next-generation energy storage solutions. His research bridges fundamental materials science with practical energy applications. He actively supervises PhD students and leads multiple funded projects, including those on solid-state electrolytes and in situ battery studies. His work involves collaboration across disciplines and institutions, emphasizing neutron and synchrotron-based techniques. Dr. Norby regularly contributes to academic discourse through guest lectures and conference presentations on topics such as in situ diffraction and lithium battery technology.
Kristina Edström is a Professor at Uppsala University, specifically affiliated with the Department of Chemistry, Structural Chemistry unit at Ångström Laboratory. She is a leading expert in battery technology and electrochemistry, with extensive research on lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, solid-state electrolytes, and surface chemistry of battery components. Current research focuses on battery interfaces (SEI/CEI), polymer-ceramic composite electrolytes, and sustainable battery materials Key methodologies include X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), neutron diffraction, and molecular dynamics modeling Recent publications (2024-2025) investigate: boron-modified solid electrolytes, self-healing polymer electrolytes, aqueous Li-ion systems, and manufacturing sustainability for batteries. Her work shows strong emphasis on improving battery safety, efficiency, and environmental impact. Leadership roles include participation in Battery 2030+ research initiatives and NordBatt conferences. She has contributed to developing standardized experimental workflows combining neutron/synchrotron techniques with AI-driven battery research.
Jens Dittmer is a Professor at Le Mans University, affiliated with the Institute of Molecules and Materials of Le Mans (IMMM). His research focuses on advanced solid-state NMR techniques for studying paramagnetic systems, ion conductors, hybrid perovskites, and polymer degradation. Key projects include developing NMR methods for paramagnetic materials, analyzing lithium garnets for battery applications, and collaborating with Pratt Institute on art conservation using NMR. Primary Affiliation: Institute of Molecules and Materials of Le Mans (IMMM), Le Mans University Research Highlights: Paramagnetic Solid-State NMR, Ion Mobility in Garnets, Hybrid Perovskite Photovoltaics, Polymer Degradation in Art Conservation His work bridges fundamental NMR physics with applied material science, particularly in energy and cultural heritage sectors. Collaborations span international institutions including University of Rennes, ParisTech, and Pratt Institute. Current projects emphasize sustainable material design and non-invasive analytical techniques.
Huck Beng Chew is a Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). His research focuses on materials science, mechanical engineering, and nanocomposite interfaces, with a particular emphasis on grain boundary dynamics, molecular dynamics simulation, and fracture mechanics. He leads studies on advanced materials such as titanium composites, boron nitride nanotubes, and magnesium alloys, investigating their deformation mechanisms, fatigue behavior, and interfacial strengthening. Chew’s work bridges experimental and computational approaches, utilizing techniques like synchrotron X-ray diffraction, molecular dynamics modeling, and physics-informed neural networks. His research addresses challenges in additive manufacturing, fracture toughness, and ion-beam interactions with materials. Collaborations span interdisciplinary fields, including aerospace engineering, plasma physics, and nanotechnology. Notable contributions include studies on cohesive zone laws for fatigue cracks, microvoiding damage modeling, and interfacial mechanics in nanolayered alloys. His work has been published in high-impact journals such as Acta Materialia , Journal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids , and Materialia . Chew’s research is supported by grants focusing on nanocomposite mechanics and 3D-printed ceramics. His findings advance material design for high-strength applications in aerospace, energy storage systems, and thermal protection materials.
