Harvey West is an Associate Research Professor in the Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering at North Carolina State University, part of the College of Engineering. He manages two advanced labs focused on materials testing, chemical analysis, and additive manufacturing. His research emphasizes characterization of metal/polymer parts via 3D printing technologies, fatigue testing, and material microstructure analysis. Dr. West holds a Ph.D. (1989), MS (1982), and BS (1979) in Materials Science and Engineering from NC State. Education: Ph.D. Materials Science and Engineering, NC State (1989) MS Materials Science and Engineering, NC State (1982) BS Materials Science and Engineering, NC State (1979) Research Interests: Additive manufacturing process optimization Material failure mechanisms in 3D-printed components Advanced testing methodologies for polymers and metals Characterization of powder-based manufacturing defects Notable Awards: 2019 College of Engineering Excellence Award 2013 NC State Pride of the Wolfpack Award Lab Operations: Furniture Testing & Evaluation Laboratory Advanced Materials Analysis Lab Specializes in ASTM-compliant mechanical testing
Andreas Zitek is a researcher at the Institute of Analytical Chemistry within the Department of Natural Sciences and Sustainable Resources at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). He holds a PhD in natural and technical sciences and has been active in interdisciplinary research since the late 1990s, combining analytical chemistry, aquatic ecology, and digital education. His current work focuses on food authenticity, isotopic fingerprinting, fish migration, and innovative teaching methods using virtual and augmented reality. His research interests span a broad range of fields, including analytical chemistry, food chemistry, spectroscopy, isotopic analysis, fish ecology, limnology, hydrobiology, and digital education. He has pioneered the use of advanced analytical techniques such as LA-ICP-MS, NIR spectroscopy, hyperspectral imaging, and metabolomics for applications in environmental monitoring, food traceability, and sustainability. His work integrates geoinformatics and GIS methods for spatial decision support in river restoration and environmental management. The most recent publications highlight a strong trend toward food authenticity and safety, utilizing handheld spectrometers, isotopic analysis, and non-targeted metabolomics for rapid assessment of food quality and origin. There is also a consistent focus on fish ecology, using otolith chemistry and elemental fingerprinting to study migration and environmental exposure. Additionally, a significant body of work is dedicated to transforming higher education through virtual reality, e-learning, and AI, emphasizing inclusion and innovative pedagogy. Scientific Awards: Schwanninger Preis BOKU für qualitativ hochwertige Lehr- und Lernmaterialien & didakt. sinnv. Einsatz: Virtuelle Exkursionen am Institut für Bodenforschung (2021) Nomination for Ars Docendi 2021, Eintrag in Atlas der guten Lehre: “Mediated Modelling for Sustainability” und „Virtuelle Exkursionen am Inst. für Bodenforschung“ (2021) Two Best Abstract/Best Poster Prices at the 2nd International MoniQa Symposium 'Food Fraud Prevention and Effective Food Allergen Management', Vienna (2018) Poster price at EWCPS 2015 for contribution to plasma spectrochemistry (2015) Ferry Starmühlner Preis des Haus des Meeres in Wien (2009) 3. Österreichischer Nationalpark Forschungspreis for PhD dissertation (2008) Andreas Zitek has supervised numerous theses, including 2 co-supervised PhD theses, 36 co-supervised diploma and master theses, and 2 BAK theses. He has been involved in various research projects, including leadership roles at FFoQSI and the VIRIS lab. He has also contributed to citizen science initiatives such as IsoPROTECT and CSI:TRACE your FOOD!, promoting public engagement in food authenticity research. His work in digital education includes the development of virtual classrooms, e-learning platforms, and innovative teaching modules using Google Apps and Moodle. He is actively involved in knowledge transfer, presenting at conferences worldwide and engaging in media outreach. He has led workshops on creative scientific writing, e-learning, and effectuation in entrepreneurship education. His interdisciplinary approach bridges natural sciences, technology, and pedagogy, contributing to both scientific advancement and educational innovation.
Mikhail V. Pervukhin is a professor at Siberian Federal University, specializing in magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) processes and electromagnetic field applications for aluminum alloy processing. His work focuses on advanced casting techniques, non-metallic inclusion separation, and industrial equipment optimization. Doctor of Technical Sciences (2013): Electromagnetic ingot casting equipment Candidate of Technical Sciences (2000): Induction heating modeling Research Interests: MHD Metallurgy: Electromagnetic field effects on molten aluminum, numerical simulation of casting processes, parametric modeling of induction devices, and energy-efficient foundry equipment development. His publications demonstrate expertise in aluminum purification, solidification control, and linear induction machine optimization. Scientific Contributions: 15+ publications (2019–2024) in journals and conferences 6 patents for electromagnetic casting equipment Key collaborator in aluminum alloy research with Viktor Timofeev and Eduard Vinter Academic Affiliation: Active researcher at Siberian Federal University, contributing to metallurgy and electromagnetic technology advancements.
Patrick Praegla, M.Sc., is a Research Associate at the Institute for Computational Mechanics within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). Working under Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christoph Meier at the Professorship of Simulation for Additive Manufacturing, he contributes to advancing computational methods for metal additive manufacturing processes. His educational background includes a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (2020) and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (2018), both from TUM. His research focuses on developing and applying computational models to understand and improve powder-based metal additive manufacturing processes. Praegla's research interests center on the Discrete Element Method (DEM), Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH), metal additive manufacturing processes, and the modeling and simulation of powder spreading. His work addresses challenges in cohesive metal powders, complex multiphase flows, thermo-solid-mechanics, and microstructure evolution during additive manufacturing. His publication record shows a consistent research trajectory from 2021 through 2025, with multiple high-impact publications in 2024. His work demonstrates expertise in both experimental validation (using X-ray imaging techniques) and computational modeling (DEM, SPH, thermal simulation) with strong practical applications for improving powder spreading strategies, understanding powder behavior, and developing novel additively manufactured structures with tailored properties. Praegla has contributed to teaching as a tutor for Technical Mechanics I and II during multiple semesters (WS 20/21, SS 21, WS 22/23, SS 23), supporting student learning in fundamental engineering mechanics. As part of the Simulation for Additive Manufacturing team at TUM, he collaborates with researchers across multiple institutions including the Institute for Applied Materials at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, the Chair for Product Development and Lightweight Design at TUM, and international collaborators from MIT. His research has practical implications for improving the reliability and capabilities of metal additive manufacturing technologies.
Shane Ardo is a Professor of Chemistry with a joint appointment in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Irvine. His research focuses on understanding and controlling spatiotemporal mechanisms of non-equilibrium processes relevant to desalination, atmospheric water harvesting, solar fuels devices, photovoltaics, electrolyzers, fuel cells, and electric heat pumps. Education: Ph.D. in Photo-Physical Inorganic Chemistry from Johns Hopkins University (2010) M.A. in Photo-Physical Inorganic Chemistry from Johns Hopkins University (2008) M.S. in Nutrition & Food Science from University of Maryland, College Park (2005) B.S. in Mathematics from Towson University (1999) Dr. Ardo's research program centers on understanding and controlling dynamics of non-equilibrium processes relevant to photoelectrochemical desalination, oceanic carbon capture, solar photocatalytic hydrogen production, liquid solar fuels, protonic photovoltaics, electrolyzer and fuel cell membranes, interfacial ion-transfer catalysis, excited-state proton-transfer dynamics, and ionic ratchets. His team designs and fabricates kinetically asymmetric systems using chemical synthesis and molecular-level engineering of molecule-material structures to control photo-induced charge separation, current rectification, catalysis of proton-coupled electron transfer reactions, and local temperature using photonic and heat transfer processes. Analysis of Dr. Ardo's recent publications (2024-2025) reveals a strong focus on solar energy conversion, water treatment technologies, and carbon capture. His work spans fundamental studies on proton transfer kinetics and interfacial phenomena to applied research on membrane technologies, photocatalytic systems, and scalable solar fuel production. Key themes include protonic diodes, bipolar membranes, water splitting, hydrogen production, and energy-efficient desalination processes. Dr. Ardo's research is generously supported by multiple funding agencies including the Department of Energy (Office of Science, EERE, ARPA-E), National Science Foundation, Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and the UCI Beall Family Foundation. The Ardo Research Group is a diverse team of innovators and educators committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, opportunities, research integrity, and dissemination of knowledge. Current students and team members include Nathaniel (Gebel Award recipient), Deniz Keskin, Eric, Nate, Brad, and Holly Shafer.
Stergios Maropoulos is a Professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Western Macedonia (UoWM), and serves as Vice Rector of Research and Lifelong Learning. He holds a PhD in Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Alloy Steels from the University of Manchester/UMIST, with earlier degrees in the same field. His academic focus includes 'Machine Elements' and teaching on topics like Material Technology, Welding, Non-Destructive Testing, Tribology, and Metal Forming. He leads the Laboratory of Mechanical Processes and Quality Control, the Centre for Testing of Materials and Constructions, and directs the MSc program in 'Welding Engineering and Non Destructive Inspection'. His research spans mechanical properties of steels, additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D-printed components), biomechanics (athletic footwear design), and finite element modeling of materials. Notable contributions include studies on fracture toughness of HSLA steels and the Vanadium Award-winning work on Cr-Mo-3.5Ni-V steel properties. He actively participates in national and EU research projects, emphasizing structural integrity and material testing. Awards: Vanadium Award (1994). Labs/Teams: Laboratory of Mechanical Processes and Quality Control, Centre for Testing of Materials and Constructions. Administrative Roles: President of UOWM's University Research Centre; member of Western Macedonia's Regional Research and Innovation Council and Special Development Program Monitoring Committee.
Associate Professor Paul Prenzler holds a BSc(Hons) and PhD from the University of Queensland, with postdoctoral research at Hitachi Advanced Research Laboratory (Japan) and ANU. At Charles Sturt University since 1997, he focuses on applying analytical chemistry to solve regional challenges in agriculture, food science, and environmental chemistry. His work includes antioxidant screening of native plants, food quality analysis, and Indigenous agricultural systems. He co-authored 124+ publications, edited a book, and received the Eureka Prize for STEM Inclusion (2019). Education: BSc(Hons), PhD (UQ); GradCert Wiradjuri Language Culture & Heritage Key Roles: Associate Professor (Chemistry), Co-Editor of Handbook of Antioxidant Methodology, National Teaching Award recipient Research interests span metabolomics, food/beverage quality, and agricultural waste valorization. Current PhD supervisees investigate Indigenous agriculture, bioactives in Eremophila species, and Fontan circulation metabolomics. He promotes STEM accessibility through programs like NISEP, emphasizing chemistry’s relevance to non-specialist career paths. Awards: Vice-Chancellor’s Research Excellence Award 2019 Australian Museum Eureka Prize (STEM Inclusion) Fellowships: Royal Australian Chemical Society; Royal Society of NSW Teaching spans general chemistry to advanced analytical methods, with a focus on inclusive pedagogy. His labs explore oil processing effects, wine chemistry, and PAH bioremediation techniques.
Margaret Koker is an Assistant Professor of Physics at Lawrence University, located in Youngchild Hall. Her research focuses on using x-ray techniques, computational modeling, and data analysis to study material composition and behavior. She teaches a broad range of physics topics, emphasizing inclusivity and diverse representation in STEM education. Koker holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Boston University (2007), an MS from the University of Illinois (2009), and a Dr. rer. nat. from the Max Planck Institute of Metals Research & Universität Stuttgart (2013). Since joining Lawrence in 2018, she has contributed to interdisciplinary work in materials science and STEM advocacy. Her research interests include advanced materials characterization through x-ray diffraction, phase transformations in nanomaterials, and mechanical behavior of metals and polymers. She has explored topics such as organic semiconductor devices, copper sulfide nanoparticles, and stress relaxation in magnesium alloys. Her work often bridges experimental and computational methods, aiming to uncover material properties at micro- and nano-scales. Koker’s publications span from 2013 to 2022, with a focus on materials science applications in both academic and heritage contexts. While no scientific awards are explicitly listed, her contributions to STEM inclusivity and facility development (e.g., CHESS upgrades) highlight her commitment to collaborative and impactful research. Her teaching philosophy prioritizes accessibility and engagement across all academic levels.
Said Rahimzadeh-Kalaleh Rodriguez is the group leader of the Interacting Photons research group at AMOLF's Center for Nanophotonics in Amsterdam, Netherlands. He leads a dynamic research team investigating the physics and applications of interacting photons in optical resonators, with a particular focus on emergent phenomena in driven-dissipative photonic systems. Dr. Rodriguez received his PhD Cum Laude from TU Eindhoven for research conducted at AMOLF and Philips under the supervision of Prof. J. Gomez Rivas. Following his doctoral studies, he worked as a Marie-Curie fellow at the Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnologies in France with Prof. J. Bloch and Dr. A. Amo. His research spans multiple areas of modern photonics, with primary interests in nanophotonics , nonlinear and quantum optics , and polaritonics . Dr. Rodriguez investigates hybrid light-matter systems involving organic and inorganic luminescent materials as well as metallic and dielectric optical resonators. His current work focuses on emergent phenomena in driven-dissipative photonic systems with nonlinearity and noise, exploring phase transitions of light, nonlinear device functionality, and polariton lasing phenomena. His research bridges fundamental physics with potential applications in quantum technologies and novel optical devices. Dr. Rodriguez has received several prestigious recognitions including: KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) Early Career Award PhD awarded Cum Laude from TU Eindhoven The Interacting Photons group, under Dr. Rodriguez's leadership, actively mentors students and early-career researchers. The group has successfully guided MSc students like G. Keijsers (now a PhD student) and regularly hosts new MSc projects. They maintain a supportive, inclusive, and intellectually-stimulating environment with access to state-of-the-art equipment funded by ERC grants. The group welcomes diverse talent, particularly encouraging applications from women and underrepresented minorities in physics. The Interacting Photons laboratory is equipped with advanced optical setups for studying cavity quantum electrodynamics at various temperatures, including a recently installed HILA (High Inertia, Low Acceleration) cryostat - the first of its kind in Europe, enabling tunable-cavity experiments at approximately 5K with high stability. Current research directions include investigating superconductivity induced by light, superfluid light phenomena, and exploring noise as a resource in optical systems.
Reza Rezasson is an Assistant University Lecturer at Gävle University, specializing in X-ray imaging and detector technology. His research focuses on applications in industrial quality control, environmental analysis, and material science. Notably, he has contributed to advancements in phase-contrast X-ray imaging for paperboard quality inspections and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for toxic metal detection. Rezasson holds a PhD from Mid Sweden University (2016) and a Licentiate degree (2014), both in related fields. Education: PhD in Advanced X-ray Detectors for Industrial and Environmental Applications, Mid Sweden University, 2016 Licentiate in Phase-Contrast and Spectroscopic X-ray Imaging, Mid Sweden University, 2014 Research Interests: Rezasson's work bridges electrical engineering and applied physics, with a focus on developing high-resolution imaging systems and detectors. His research addresses challenges in non-destructive testing, nanoparticle characterization, and sensor optimization. Recent projects include collaborations with institutions like DESY on detector development and software design for the PERCIVAL detector system. Publications: His over 30 peer-reviewed articles span X-ray imaging techniques, detector technology, and educational policy. Recent trends emphasize interdisciplinary applications, such as environmental monitoring and pandemic-driven educational reforms. Grants & Labs: Rezasson collaborates on detector projects involving institutions like DESY and international teams. His lab work focuses on PERCIVAL detector systems and their applications in synchrotron radiation studies. Future research aims to expand into smart dosimetry and AI-driven imaging algorithms. Academic Advocacy: He actively contributes to academic discourse on university policies, mentorship, and student well-being through articles in SULF publications, advocating for intellectual diversity and supportive academic environments.
Manish M Pande is an Associate Professor in the Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay), a position he has held since February 2024. He previously served as an Assistant Professor from August 2017 to February 2024. His research is centered on steelmaking processes, particularly steel cleanness, high-temperature experimentation, and metallic foams. Bachelor of Engineering in Metallurgical Engineering from VNIT Nagpur M.Tech in Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science from IIT Bombay PhD in Metallurgical Engineering from KU Leuven, Belgium His research interests focus on improving steel quality through understanding inclusion behavior, ferroalloy interactions, and real-time monitoring techniques in liquid steel processing. He employs advanced analytical methods such as Pulse Discrimination Analysis and Optical Emission Spectroscopy for in-process control. The publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on steel cleanness, particularly in ultra-low carbon steels, with emphasis on how ferroalloy quality and processing sequences impact final steel purity. His work bridges fundamental interfacial chemistry with industrial process optimization. While no formal awards are listed in the provided text, his research has been published in leading journals such as ISIJ International and Ironmaking & Steelmaking , and presented at international conferences like SCANMET. Dr. Pande advises graduate students and leads a research group focused on clean steel technology, as evidenced by his group website. Although specific grants are not mentioned, his international PhD training and sustained research output suggest active funding support. He maintains both institutional and personal email contact for professional communication.
Dr. Neslihan Dogan is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at McMaster University, Faculty of Engineering. Her research focuses on process metallurgy, particularly kinetics and thermodynamics of chemical reactions in steelmaking, utilizing modeling and high-temperature experimental techniques. Her educational background includes a B.Eng from Yildiz Technical University and a PhD from Swinburne University. She is a licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng) in Ontario, Canada. Research Interests: High-temperature materials processing, steelmaking thermodynamics/kinetics, inclusion removal, slag-metal reactions, computational materials modeling, and sustainable manufacturing optimization. Current Projects: Inclusion removal fundamentals, calcium treatment for inclusion modification, high-manganese steel inclusion studies, and kinetic modeling of Basic Oxygen Steelmaking. Dr. Dogan's recent publications highlight advancements in inclusion characterization, dissolution kinetics, and oxygen steelmaking modeling. Her work aligns with research clusters in Advanced Materials & Manufacturing and Energy, emphasizing environmental and economic sustainability in steel production. Laboratory techniques employed include in situ high-temperature confocal microscopy, optical floating zone methods, and laser scanning confocal microscopy for real-time material behavior analysis.
Hareesh V. Tippur is the McWane Endowed Chair Professor and Associate Chair for Graduate Studies in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Auburn University's College of Engineering. He also directs the Laboratory for Failure Mechanics & Optical Techniques, where he leads cutting-edge research in dynamic failure, optical metrology, and advanced materials characterization. His research focuses on experimental mechanics , particularly dynamic fracture , full-field optical methods , and high-speed imaging for transparent and composite materials. His work spans nanocomposites , syntactic foams , functionally graded materials , and additive manufacturing , with applications in defense, aerospace, and structural integrity. Recent projects involve cellulose nanopaper, Ti-6Al-4V variability, and transparent armor systems. Tippur's research is supported by major agencies including the Army Research Office , National Science Foundation , and Federal Aviation Administration . His publications reveal a consistent focus on innovative optical techniques for characterizing material failure under extreme conditions, especially in transparent and layered systems. He has held significant editorial leadership, serving as Editor-in-Chief of Experimental Mechanics (2010–2015) and currently as Associate Editor for the ASME Journal of Applied Mechanics and other journals. He is an active member of the Executive Board of ASME Materials Division and Society for Experimental Mechanics . Tippur advises graduate students and leads a well-equipped lab featuring high-speed cameras, laser interferometers, and a gas gun for impact testing. His professional service includes chairing technical committees and editorial boards, demonstrating strong leadership in the mechanics community.
Kris Kusnerik is an Assistant Professor of Geosciences at Hamilton College. He received his Ph.D. in Geology with a minor in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation from the University of Florida (2021), an M.S. from the University of Georgia, and a B.S. from the College of William & Mary. Research Interests : Kusnerik specializes in invertebrate paleontology and conservation paleobiology, integrating fossil, historical, and modern records to analyze long-term faunal changes in threatened ecosystems. His work focuses on Florida's freshwater springs and rivers, using mollusks as proxies to understand human- and climate-driven ecological shifts. Publications & Trends : His research spans taphonomy, historical ecology, and paleoclimatology, with a focus on molluscan assemblages, time-averaged death records, and the application of paleontological data to conservation. Recent work also addresses systemic racism in Western paleontology. Awards : Nichol Paleontology Award, University of Florida (2021) College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Dissertation Fellowship, University of Florida (2020) Ernst Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award, University of Florida (2020) Academic Roles : He has taught courses in Paleontology, Marine Environments, and the Age of Dinosaurs. His research combines fieldwork, taphonomic analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration with ecologists and conservationists.
Prof. Bart Blanpain leads the High Temperature Processes (HiTemp) research group at KU Leuven's Institute for Sustainable Metals and Minerals. With over 20 years of pyrometallurgical expertise, he specializes in ferrous/non-ferrous metallurgy and slag processing. His group maintains strategic partnerships with industrial leaders: Aperam ArcelorMittal Sidmar Umicore MetalloChimique Campine Group Machiels His research focuses on sustainable metallurgical ecosystems through slag/residue valorisation, refractory wear mitigation, urban mining, and optimized flow sheets. Key initiatives target bauxite residue ("red mud") processing, lithium extraction from battery recycling streams, hydrogen-based reduction techniques, and freeze lining engineering for nonferrous operations. This work drives circular economy solutions for critical material recovery and resource efficiency in metals production. Analysis of 2024-2025 publications reveals dominant trends in hydrogen metallurgy for sustainable metal recovery and computational modeling of inclusion behavior. Significant emphasis on battery recycling, antimony recovery, and slag engineering demonstrates alignment with industry decarbonization goals and critical raw material security imperatives. The research portfolio bridges fundamental thermodynamics with industrial process optimization. Scientific Awards: No awards were mentioned in source materials. Prof. Blanpain's group secures substantial industrial funding for applied R&D, evidenced by active collaborations with major metals producers. Project descriptions indicate strong focus on slag valorisation and process optimization for resource recovery. Student advising occurs within these research frameworks, though specific advisees aren't documented in available materials. The HiTemp group operates advanced high-temperature facilities including plasma reactors for slag fuming, hydrogen reduction setups, and comprehensive slag characterization laboratories. As part of KU Leuven's Institute for Sustainable Metals and Minerals, the team integrates process engineering, materials science, and sustainability analysis to develop next-generation metallurgical solutions addressing industry's decarbonization challenges.
