Suvi Saarikallio is a Professor of Music Education at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland , affiliated with the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and the Department of Music, Art and Culture Studies . She leads interdisciplinary research bridging music psychology, education, and therapy, with a focus on youth development, emotion regulation, and well-being. Research Groups: Centre of Excellence in Music, Mind, Body and Brain (2022-2029), Musiconnect (2022-2027) Key Projects: Music and You, Stress & music listening, MPACT (Music and Sports), Music and Cross-modal Associations, SOSUS (Social Sustainability for Children) Research Trends: Her recent publications explore music's role in emotional regulation, cross-modal perception, health outcomes, and educational applications. Themes include AI's impact on music evaluation, rhythm's connection to cognitive skills, and music's influence on stress and social-emotional development. Contact: suvi.saarikallio@jyu.fi
Panagiota (Nota) Klentrou is a Distinguished Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Applied Health Sciences at Brock University, specializing in Kinesiology. Her research focuses on exercise physiology , bone development , and the health implications of sport training in youth , particularly examining cellular mechanisms linking exercise, diet, and lifelong bone health. Supported by NSERC, CIHR, Osteoporosis Canada, and the International Gymnastics Federation Education: PhD, FCSEP (Fellow of the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology) Her work spans bone physiology , inflammatory responses to exercise , and sclerostin-mediated tissue cross-talk , with recent studies exploring the impact of obesogenic diets , acute exercise , and nutritional interventions on skeletal growth and adaptation. Key findings include the role of sprint interval training in modulating adipose tissue Wnt signaling and the effects of dairy consumption on bone turnover markers. Scientific Awards & Distinctions Fellow, Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP), 2020 Marilyn Rose Graduate Leadership Award, 2017 TVO's Best Lecturer nominee, 2010 Chancellor’s Chair for Research Excellence, Brock University, 2009 Award for Distinguished Research & Creative Activity, Brock University, 2006 Dr. Klentrou actively supervises graduate and undergraduate students in projects related to bone physiology , inflammation , and exercise adaptation , and collaborates with organizations like Osteoporosis Canada and the International Gymnastics Federation.
Elie Hajj is a Professor in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), serving as Associate Director of the Western Regional Superpave Center. His research focuses on asphalt pavement engineering, sustainable materials, and infrastructure resilience. He specializes in pavement rehabilitation, numerical modeling of dynamic load impacts, and economic analysis of pavement preservation strategies. Dr. Hajj has received recognition for his 2016 ASTM award for outstanding work on pavement rehabilitation economics. He actively engages in professional service, including TRB webinars and academic seminars on topics like pavement damage assessment and vehicle operating costs. His teaching spans graduate and undergraduate courses in pavement design, materials engineering, and advanced pavement analysis. His research integrates experimental and computational methods to address challenges in pavement performance under superheavy loads, recycled material utilization, and energy-efficient construction practices. Collaborations with industry and government agencies enhance the practical applicability of his findings.
David M Williams is a Professor of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Psychiatry and Human Behavior at Brown University's School of Public Health , where he also serves as Associate Dean . His work bridges affective science and health behavior, focusing on exercise promotion and smoking cessation.
Associate Professor Romy Lauche serves as Deputy Director (Research) at the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine , Faculty of Health , Southern Cross University , Australia. A psychologist by undergraduate training and medical scientist by doctoral education, she has built an international reputation for rigorous methodological expertise in clinical and public-health research focused on complementary, integrative and traditional medicine. Education Master of Psychology – Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany Doctor of Health Science (Medical Science) – University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany Research Interests Lauche’s work integrates mind–body interventions (yoga, Tai Chi, mindfulness), manual and non-pharmacological therapies , and self-care strategies within the frameworks of public health , health-services research and evidence-based medicine . She specializes in advanced study designs including randomized controlled trials , systematic reviews , meta-analyses and qualitative inquiry , frequently leveraging large national datasets such as the U.S. NHIS. Scientific Awards 2017 – Dean’s Academic Excellence Award – Research High Achiever, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney 2022 – Award for Research Excellence – Mid-Career Researcher, Southern Cross University Grants & Funding She has attracted a substantial portfolio of competitive research grants supporting clinical and public-health investigations in integrative medicine, although specific grant details are not enumerated in the provided text. Supervision & Teaching Lauche is an experienced supervisor of PhD, Masters and Honours students and welcomes projects on yoga, Tai Chi, hydrotherapy, traditional and cultural medicine, and methodological innovation. She lectures in research methodology, biostatistics, public health and complementary medicine . Professional Service She sits on the Southern Cross University Human Research Ethics Committee , holds editorial roles with leading integrative-medicine journals, and contributes to the Cochrane Collaboration via Cochrane Translate and Cochrane Crowd.
Professor Suguru Torii is a distinguished faculty member at Waseda University's School of Sport Sciences, specializing in Sports Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. With a PhD in Sports Science, he serves as Director of the Waseda Institute of Human Growth and Development (2021-2026) and maintains affiliations with the Global Education Center. His research interests focus on the intricate relationship between growth, development, and sports injuries in children and adolescents. Torii has made significant contributions to understanding musculoskeletal development patterns , bone health in young athletes , and biomechanical factors contributing to sports injuries. His work bridges clinical practice with scientific research, emphasizing evidence-based approaches to injury prevention and treatment in pediatric populations. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on growth-related changes in musculoskeletal tissues , with particular attention to the timing of peak velocity in height, lean mass, and bone mass. His research employs advanced methodologies including DXA, ultrasound, and 3D motion analysis to investigate biomechanical and physiological adaptations during growth and sports participation. Japanese Orthopaedic Society of Sports Medicine Best Paper Award 2006 (awarded June 2007) 4th Japanese Society of Clinical Sports Medicine Award (awarded November 2005) Torii has led numerous significant research projects including The effectiveness of eating an appropriate breakfast in building the body of athletes (2019-2022) and Development of the appropriate evaluation of energy availability for Japanese female athletes (2016-2019). His work on energy availability, bone health in young athletes, and injury prevention has received funding from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. He serves on the professional boards of multiple societies including the Japanese Society of Sports Psychiatry, Running Society, Japan Growth Society, and Japanese Orthopaedic Society of Sports Medicine. Professor Torii directs the Waseda Institute of Human Growth and Development, where his team conducts cutting-edge research on growth patterns, musculoskeletal development, and sports-related injuries in children and adolescents. The institute collaborates with clinical and research partners to translate scientific findings into practical applications for coaches, athletic trainers, and healthcare providers working with young athletes.
Bjørn Olav Åsvold, MD, PhD, is a Professor of Medicine (Epidemiology) and Center leader at the HUNT Centre for Molecular and Clinical Epidemiology (HUNT MCE), Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). He also serves as a Consultant at the Department of Endocrinology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital. His research spans epidemiology, genetics, and clinical medicine. MD, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 2001 PhD, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 2008 Specialist in internal medicine, 2014 Specialist in endocrinology, 2015 Åsvold's research focuses on thyroid dysfunction and diabetes , investigating their interplay with cardiometabolic diseases and pregnancy complications . He utilizes Mendelian randomization studies to explore causal relationships between genetic factors and health outcomes, including sleep traits , autoimmune thyroid disease , and kidney function . His work also addresses global health issues like obesity in Nepal and diabetic complications in Norway. Recent publications highlight his contributions to understanding hip fracture risk prediction , cardiovascular implications of sleep patterns , and genetic determinants of trace elements . Åsvold's collaborations span multiple international institutions, including the HUNT Study and HUNT MCE in Norway.
Andrew Currie is a Professor and Associate Dean (Research & Innovation) at Murdoch University's School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, within the College of Environmental and Life Sciences. He leads the Sepsis Diagnostics Research Group at the Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics and co-heads the Neonatal Infection and Immunity Team with Clinical Professor Tobias Strunk at the Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccine & Infectious Diseases at Telethon Kids Institute. His research focuses on immunology and infectious diseases in pediatric populations, particularly sepsis diagnostics and neonatal immunity. Education: PhD (Immunology, University of Western Australia, 2001); BSc (Biotechnology with Honors, Murdoch University, 1997). Research Interests: Sepsis diagnostics, innate immunity mechanisms in neonates, medical biotechnology for diagnostics (e.g., biosensors), and translational research in pediatric infections. Collaborates internationally with institutions in Canada, Denmark, the UK, US, and China. Aims to reduce sepsis burden in vulnerable populations through advanced molecular methods and interdisciplinary partnerships. Key Affiliations: Lead of Sepsis Diagnostics Research Group (Murdoch University), Senior Lecturer in Immunology, Honorary Associate at Kids Research Institute Australia. Past roles include leadership in the Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics. Scientific Contributions: Over 100 peer-reviewed articles focusing on sepsis biomarkers, neonatal immunity, tick-borne diseases, and clinical trials for interventions like vitamin C and probiotics in critical illness. Active in developing precision medicine approaches for neonatal sepsis. Grants & Funding: Co-leads major projects on sepsis diagnostics and neonatal infection, supported by national and international grants. Collaborates on multi-institutional initiatives. Labs/Teams: Sepsis Diagnostics Research Group (Murdoch) and Neonatal Infection and Immunity Team (Telethon Kids Institute). Works closely with the Personalised Medicine Centre and Health Futures Institute.
Prof. Dr. Andreas Pfeiffer is a faculty member at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin , affiliated with the Campus Benjamin Franklin and the Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutritional Medicine . His research focuses on nutrition and hormones , endocrine disorders of organs like the thyroid, parathyroid, pituitary gland, and adrenal gland, as well as the intersection of obesity , overweight diabetes , and nutritional medicine with an emphasis on diabetes remission . Research Interests : Hormone-producing organ diseases; obesity-related metabolic disorders; nutritional medicine for diabetes management. Contact : andreas.pfeiffer@charite.de | Tel: +49 30 450 514 422
Clinical Associate Professor Therese McGee is affiliated with the Westmead Clinical School, part of the Sydney Medical School at the University of Sydney. Her work focuses on maternal and neonatal health, particularly in obstetrics and gynaecology, with a strong emphasis on clinical research and guideline implementation. She investigates diverse topics such as perinatal outcomes, pandemic impacts on healthcare, and optimizing healthcare delivery models. Her research often addresses challenges in multiethnic populations and evaluates interventions to improve patient care and reduce healthcare costs. Her research interests include perinatal care, gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, and the validation of hospital data to ensure accurate reporting of maternal medical conditions. She also explores fetal surveillance techniques, neonatal jaundice management, and the efficacy of midwifery-led care models. Her work frequently employs mixed-methods and cohort study designs, reflecting a commitment to evidence-based practice. Therese has contributed to studies on uterine rupture, anaemia in pregnancy, and the use of rapid diagnostic tests for preventing neonatal infections. Her articles highlight a focus on healthcare quality, patient-centered care, and improving clinical guidelines through rigorous analysis. The scope of her research spans both clinical and public health dimensions, addressing issues such as antibiotic exposure reduction and maternal morbidity in Australian contexts. Grants: Efficacy and safety of vaccination in at-risk pregnant women and impact on infant immune responses (2017) Are we there yet? Optimising timing of planned birth to improve newborn outcomes and reduce health service costs (2017) Therese is involved in collaborative projects through Sydney Health Partners, focusing on applied research with real-world healthcare implications. Her studies often involve interdisciplinary teams, reflecting her role in bridging clinical practice and academic research. While no formal student advisees are listed, her publications suggest active participation in mentoring research cohorts.
Professor Loc Do is a dentist and oral epidemiologist specializing in social and clinical oral epidemiology. He holds a PhD from the University of Adelaide and currently serves as Director of Research at the School of Dentistry, University of Queensland. His research focuses on child and adult oral health disparities, fluoride efficacy, and water fluoridation policies. He has led major studies like the National Child Oral Health Study (2012–14) and the National Study of Adult Oral Health (2017–19). Education: BDS (Dentistry), MScDent, PhD (Oral Epidemiology). Research Interests: Oral epidemiology, dental fluorosis, socioeconomic inequalities in oral health, fluoride risk-benefit analysis, and complex systems science in dental research. His work frequently addresses public health interventions and policy implications. Awards: 2022 IADR Distinguished Scientist H Trendley Dean Award, 2023 IADR Abrey Sheiham Award for Distinguished Research in Dental Public Health. Grants and Projects: Principal Investigator for NHMRC/MRFF-funded studies on water fluoridation, child oral health inequities, and aged care oral health. Current projects include the Queensland Child Oral Health Study (2020–2024) and the SMILE Birth Cohort Study (2013–22). Advisement: Supervises PhD and Master’s students in areas like oral health policy, fluoride safety, and aged care interventions. Notable supervision includes studies on water fluoridation’s social impact and oral health in residential care facilities. Labs/Teams: Leads research teams in the School of Dentistry and collaborates with the Centre of Research Excellence on Achieving the Tobacco Endgame. Active in multidisciplinary projects addressing global oral health challenges.
Anne-Sofie Helvik is a Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) within the Department of Public Health and Nursing . Her research focuses on quality of life, coping mechanisms, aging, impairment, and disabilities, with a particular emphasis on older adults. Email: anne-sofie.helvik@ntnu.no Location: Øya Helsehus, 153.03.001, Øya, Håkon Jarls gate 11 Her work spans multiple domains: Health Promotion: Central to her research is improving health outcomes in older populations. Substance Misuse: Investigates alcohol and drug use among older adults and its impact on health. Mental Health: Studies depression, pain, and dementia in aging populations. Sensory Function: Explores olfactory and hearing impairments in older adults. Healthcare Systems: Evaluates treatment, care, and postoperative follow-up in both pediatric and geriatric contexts. Her methodological approach combines both quantitative and qualitative research , with a strong emphasis on longitudinal studies and population-based analyses. Currently, she supervises two doctoral students: Heidi Sivertsen – Researching depression among older community residents. Ingrid Torvik Heian – Investigating olfactory functioning. Her research unit, Allmennmedisinsk Forsknings Enhet (AFE) , focuses on aging and health in older adults, accessible via NTNU’s aging and health page.
Teis Hansen is a Professor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Department of Food and Resource Economics , University of Copenhagen, with a side-position at SINTEF 's Department of Technology Management in Norway. His academic background includes a PhD in Economic Geography (2012) and an MSc in Regional and Urban Planning Studies (2008, LSE). His research spans innovation studies, sustainability transitions, and economic geography , focusing on spatial innovation dynamics, transformative policy, green urban development, foundational economy, and technology transfer between developed and emerging economies. Empirical work covers bioeconomy, energy-intensive industries, maritime transport, plastics, and energy systems. Recent collaborations include international partnerships in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. His 112 research outputs include 63 journal articles, 9 book chapters, and policy-relevant reports. Key publications address climate change mitigation frameworks, carbon capture feasibility, and circular bioeconomy transitions .
Dr. Erika Pranger-Boers is a researcher affiliated with the University of Groningen, specializing in psychology and communication disorders. Her work focuses on developing innovative assessment methodologies for populations with complex communication needs. Her research examines: Dynamic assessment procedures for congenital deafblindness Communication potential measurement in prelinguistic individuals Physical activity monitoring in clinical populations Validity testing of behavioral observation instruments Publication analysis reveals consistent focus on assessment methodologies for vulnerable populations, particularly in deafblind communication, developmental disabilities, and health behavior measurement. Research evolves from technical instrument validation (accelerometry) toward complex communication assessment frameworks.
Ben Lacey is an Associate Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology at the University of Oxford's Oxford Population Health. His research focuses on population health metrics, health inequalities, and enhancing large-scale observational epidemiology through linked administrative records. Education : MBChB (University of Edinburgh, 2004), MSc in Global Health Science, DPhil in Epidemiology (University of Oxford) Affiliations : UK Biobank, Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (CTSU), Big Data Institute (BDI), Richard Doll Consortium Lacey's recent work examines obesity trends, cancer disparities, and cardiovascular risk factors using UK Biobank data. He contributes to the Global Burden of Disease Study and develops open-access tools for health outcome prediction. Scientific awards include his fellowship in the Faculty of Public Health of the Royal Colleges of Physicians. His research has significant policy implications, particularly in addressing social and spatial inequalities in health outcomes across Europe.
