Dr. Gregory Perry is a Lecturer in Organic Chemistry at the University of Southampton (UK), leading an independent research group focused on discovering novel reactivity for molecular synthesis and transformation. His career includes postdoctoral research at Nagoya University and Kyoto University, and previous fixed-term lecturer roles at the University of Manchester. Research Interests: Organic synthesis with a focus on catalysis Carbon and nitrogen isotope labelling techniques Metal-halogen exchange reactions CO2 utilization in synthetic chemistry Transition-metal-free cross-coupling methods Notable Contributions: His recent work explores sulfonium salts for aromatic coupling, sustainable biaryl synthesis, and stomatal-regulating molecule development. Articles span topics like organolithium reagents, bimetallic catalysis, and molecular semiconductor synthesis. Academic Background: MChem in Chemistry (2012), University of Liverpool PhD in Organic Chemistry (2016), University of Manchester Current Collaborations: Affiliated with the ChemLife Network, Institute for Life Sciences, and groups led by Professors Hideki Yorimitsu and David J. Procter.
Dr. G.K. Knopf is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical & Materials Engineering at Western University, Canada. He holds a Ph.D. (1991), M.Sc. (1987), and B.E. (1984) from the University of Saskatchewan. His work bridges product design, advanced manufacturing, and bio-inspired technologies. Research Focus: Dr. Knopf’s research spans 3D shape reconstruction , laser microfabrication , micro-optics , and bioelectronic imaging arrays . Recent projects emphasize light-driven actuators , flexible electronics , and graphene-based inks for printing circuits on unconventional substrates like silk and paper. Publications: Over 150 peer-reviewed works, including two edited CRC Press volumes ( Smart Biosensor Technology , Optical Nano and Micro Actuator Technology ). Key contributions involve non-lithographic fabrication , bacteriorhodopsin photodetectors , and self-organizing feature maps for data visualization. Awards/Patents: Co-inventor of two U.S. patents (6,542,249 for 3D surface measurement; 7,573,024 for bioelectronic imaging arrays). Teaching: Leads graduate courses in Medical Device Design and Optomechatronic Systems , as well as undergraduate Mechatronics and Medical Device Development courses.
Pedro Fardim is a Professor at the KU Leuven , affiliated with the Faculty of Engineering Sciences, Department of Chemical Engineering , and leads the Chemical and Biochemical Reactor Technology and Safety (CREaS) division. He also serves as President of EPNOE (European Polysaccharide Network of Excellence) and is a member of multiple institutes including KU Leuven Brain Institute (LBI) , Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO) , and Institute for Micro- and Nano-scale Integration (LIMNI) . PhD in Chemistry, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Brazil Habilitation in Chemical Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Finland Pedro’s research focuses on topochemical engineering —mimicking natural bioassembly processes in trees and microorganisms to create sustainable materials and biofabrication technologies . His work spans drug delivery , regenerative medicine , biopolymer engineering , and green chemistry , with applications in pharmaceuticals , cosmetics , and energy . Recent projects include hydrogels for wearable sensors , biohybrid materials for bone tissue engineering , and lignin valorization using hydrotropic solvents. His scientific awards include Fellowships from the Royal Society of Chemistry and the International Academy of Wood Science , along with membership in the American Chemical Society . He teaches Chemical Engineering for Human Health , Biochemical Process Engineering , and Biopolymer-based Sustainable Technologies .
Dr. Alamgir Karim is the Dow Chair and Welch Foundation Professor at the University of Houston, leading the International Polymer & Soft Matter Center (IPSMC) and the Doctoral Materials Program. His research focuses on polymer nanotechnology, thin films, and interfaces for energy, sustainability, and health applications. He holds a Ph.D. in Physics from Northwestern University and a B.S. from St. Stephen's College, Delhi. Key contributions include polymer nanocomposites, block copolymer thin films, and graphene oxide membranes for desalination. He is a Fellow of the American Physical Society and AAAS, and a Keck Foundation Award recipient. Research interests span polymer nanotechnology, dielectric materials, and sustainable nanocomposites. Recent work explores MXene-based biomedical composites, CO₂ capture membranes, and high-energy-density dielectrics. His lab develops functional materials for energy storage, environmental remediation, and biomedicine. Education: Ph.D., Physics (Northwestern University, 1991); B.S., Physics (St. Stephen's College, 1985) Leadership: Director of IPSMC; former Goodyear Chair Professor at University of Akron Awards: AAAS Fellowship, APS Fellowship, Keck Foundation Award Advances in block copolymer self-assembly and nanocomposite design have enabled scalable filtration membranes and high-performance dielectrics. His group collaborates on protocell models and sustainable materials processing.
Caterina Ducati is a Professor of Nanomaterials at the Department of Materials Science & Metallurgy, University of Cambridge. Her research focuses on nanomaterials, their structure-property relationships, and applications in energy technologies, particularly photovoltaics, photocatalysis, and optoelectronics. Research Interests: In situ electron microscopy of nanomaterials under external stimuli (electrical, thermal, photonic), growth mechanisms of nanostructures (carbon nanotubes, semiconductor nanowires), and degradation processes in energy devices. Methodologies: Advanced characterization via HAADF STEM, TEM, and development of tools for real-time nanoscale observation. Recent publications highlight her work on perovskite solar cells, battery materials (Li, Zn, Na-ion), and ferroelectric thin films. She actively investigates degradation mechanisms in energy devices and develops novel fabrication techniques for nanocomposites. Scientific Recognition: A&B Post-doctoral Fellowship winners (institutional award) She supervises research groups utilizing the Wolfson Electron Microscopy Suite and contributes to interdisciplinary collaborations in materials for sustainability and healthcare applications.
Makhlouf M. Makhlouf is a Professor of Mechanical & Materials Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). He served as Director of the Advanced Casting Research Center (ACRC) from 1992 to 2015, leading it to become the world's leading foundry-industry consortium. His expertise spans physical metallurgy, materials processing, and nanocomposite development. He holds 5 US/European patents and has authored over 150 papers. Education : BS (High Honors), American University in Cairo, 1978 MS, Mechanical Engineering, New Mexico State University, 1980 PhD, Materials Science & Engineering, WPI, 1990 Research Interests : Makhlouf focuses on developing high-performance alloys (e.g., aluminum alloys for high-temperature applications), solidification processes, and metal-matrix nanocomposites via methods like RIGLI. His work integrates thermodynamics, kinetics, and heat/mass transfer modeling for materials engineering challenges. Articles Overview : His recent publications address topics like aluminum alloy precipitation strengthening (2017), gas-liquid synthesis of nanocomposites (2017), and casting process optimization (2017). These contributions emphasize practical applications in foundry and aerospace sectors. Grants & Advising : He has directed federally/non-federally funded projects, mentored 10 PhD students, 20 MS students, and 8 postdoctoral fellows. His work bridges academic research and industrial collaboration. Labs/Teams : He leads research through WPI's ACRC and collaborates with industry partners to advance foundry technologies and nanocomposite manufacturing.
Jozef Vleugels is a full Professor at KU Leuven's Faculty of Engineering Sciences, where he serves as Department Head of Functional Materials (SIEM) within the Department of Materials Science. He is also Chairman of the Leuven Centre for Materials and serves as contact person for the Functional Materials research unit located at Castle Park Arenberg 44 in Leuven. His research focuses on advanced materials processing, particularly in ceramics, powder metallurgy, and additive manufacturing. Vleugels has extensive expertise in zirconia-based dental biomaterials, nuclear materials, and refractory ceramics. His work integrates traditional ceramic processing techniques with cutting-edge additive manufacturing technologies, including direct ink writing (DIW) and binder jetting for complex geometries. His recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on dental applications of zirconia ceramics, laser surface modification techniques, microwave processing, and high-entropy carbide systems. His research group is actively involved in numerous EU and national projects related to additive manufacturing of multi-material components, nuclear applications, and dental biomaterials. Prof. Vleugels teaches several courses including Ceramics and Powder Metallurgy, Advanced Ceramic Materials, and project-based courses in materials science. He supervises numerous doctoral candidates and collaborates extensively with industry partners on applied research projects. He is an active member of multiple research networks including the Materials Science Division, KIEM – KU Leuven Institute for Energy and Society, and Leuven.AM – KU Leuven Institute for Additive Manufacturing. He also serves on various faculty and departmental councils including the Faculty Council of Engineering Sciences and the Departmental Council of Materials Science.
Dr. Rajendra Kurapati is an Assistant Professor at the School of Chemistry , Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram (IISER TVM) . His research focuses on biodegradable 2D materials for biomedical applications, addressing nanomaterial biopersistence issues through enzymatic degradation studies. He leads the Biomaterials Lab and collaborates with institutions across France, Ireland, Portugal, and the UK. Born in Andhra Pradesh, India B.Sc. & M.Sc. in Chemistry (Acharya Nagarjuna University, University of Hyderabad) Ph.D. in Materials Engineering (Indian Institute of Science, 2014) Postdoc: CNRS Strasbourg (2014-2017), CÚRAM Galway (2018-2020) His research explores 2D material-biopolymer hybrids for drug/gene delivery , nanotheranostics , and antimicrobial coatings . Key article trends include: Graphene/MoS2 biodegradation by human enzymes Antibacterial coatings for medical implants Microplastics' environmental impact Lipid nanoparticles for mRNA vaccines ZnO quantum dots for bioimaging Polymer multilayer drug delivery systems Major scientific awards : DBT Ramalingaswami Fellowship (INR 40 lakhs over 5 years) SERB Start-up Grant (32 lakhs over 2 years) SERB Special Grant (45 lakhs over 3 years) DBT Mission Innovation Grant (18 lakhs over 6 months) His academic contributions span 15+ high-impact publications in journals like Advanced Materials , Nanoscale , and Chemical Communications , covering topics from graphene biodegradation to antimicrobial coatings and bioimaging . 10+ alumni students have graduated from his lab, with placements at institutions including University of Strasbourg and Dublin City University.
David Chester Upham is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering within the Faculty of Applied Science at the University of British Columbia (UBC). He leads the Upham Lab, which focuses on developing catalysts and processes for sustainable energy production, greenhouse gas mitigation, and CO 2 -free chemical conversion. Dr. Upham received his education from prestigious institutions: Postdoctoral Scholar, Stanford University (2019) Ph.D., University of California Santa Barbara (2017) B.Eng., McGill University (2010) Dr. Upham's research focuses on heterogeneous catalysis for sustainable energy applications. His work centers on developing catalysts and processes that enable CO 2 -free production of chemicals, power, and materials. He specializes in liquid heterogeneous catalysts , particularly molten metal alloys, for methane conversion, CO 2 utilization, and hydrogen production. His lab employs advanced techniques including operando IR spectroscopy, pulsed and transient analysis of reaction mechanisms, isotopic labeling studies, and in-situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy. A key aspect of his research is understanding how liquid heterogeneous catalysts behave under reaction conditions, with applications in methane pyrolysis, dry reforming, and carbon fiber synthesis. Analysis of Dr. Upham's recent publications reveals a strong focus on CO 2 mitigation and clean energy production . His work spans multiple domains including methane conversion technologies, CO 2 -to-fuels processes, and carbon-negative fuel production. A significant portion of his research investigates molten metal catalysts for methane pyrolysis and dry reforming, with applications in hydrogen production and carbon capture. His publications demonstrate an interdisciplinary approach combining chemical engineering, materials science, and environmental engineering to address climate change challenges through innovative catalytic processes. Dr. Upham actively mentors a diverse group of graduate students and researchers. His lab currently includes multiple PhD and MASc students working on various aspects of catalysis and clean energy: PhD Students: Mark Tabbara, Genpei Cai, Natascha Miederhoff MASc Students: Michael Byun, Sawyer d'Entremont, Rami Jubeili, Wyatt Schnare Postdoctoral researcher: Sonit Balyan Multiple undergraduate and visiting students from institutions worldwide The Upham Lab operates within UBC's Catalysis Labs, utilizing advanced experimental techniques to study reaction mechanisms and develop new catalysts. The lab's research has significant implications for decarbonizing the energy and chemical sectors, with potential applications in hydrogen production, carbon fiber manufacturing, and CO 2 -to-fuels technologies.
Ying Ge is a Professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, jointly appointed in the Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology and the Department of Chemistry. Her research integrates chemistry, biology, and medicine, focusing on advanced mass spectrometry-based proteomic and metabolomic technologies to address cardiovascular diseases. Education: B.S., Peking University (1997) Ph.D., Cornell University (2002) Ying Ge's work centers on developing ultra high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms for top-down proteomics and metabolomics, applied to systems biology studies of heart failure and regenerative medicine. Key projects include myofilament protein modification mapping, stem cell therapy evaluation, and biomarker discovery for cardiac conditions. The 15 most recent articles highlight her lab's methodological innovations (e.g., photocleavable surfactants, native mass spectrometry) and biological discoveries in AMPK structural heterogeneity, RBM20-mediated cardiotoxicity, and sarcomere-metabolism cross-talk during regeneration. These publications span proteomics, metabolomics, structural biology, and clinical applications.
Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Lothar Elling is a University Professor and director at the Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Germany. His research focuses on biomaterials, glycoengineering, and enzymatic synthesis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. Institution: RWTH Aachen University Research Unit: Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering Academic Rank: Full Professor Prof. Elling's research interests include: Glycoengineering of biomaterials Enzymatic synthesis of glycans Glycosyltransferase immobilization Glycan-protein interactions Biocatalytic cascade reactions Biomedical applications of glycomaterials His recent publications demonstrate strong expertise in: - Automated enzymatic glycan synthesis - Multi-enzyme cascade systems for nucleotide sugar production - Glycosyltransferase engineering - Galectin-targeted glycomaterials - Microgel-based biosensors
Tobias Dick serves as Professor and Head of the Division of Redox Regulation at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) in Heidelberg, maintaining a primary affiliation with Heidelberg University's Faculty of Biosciences. His leadership spans molecular switch research within the SFB/TRR186 consortium focusing on spatio-temporal control of cellular signal transmission. Academic Background: PhD in Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin (1997, summa cum laude) Habilitation in Biochemistry, Heidelberg University (2009) Diploma thesis at German Cancer Research Center (1994) Study program in Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin (1989-1994) Research Focus: Dick pioneers investigations into thiol-based redox switches governing cellular signal transduction. His work establishes fundamental mechanisms of peroxiredoxin-mediated hydrogen peroxide signaling, protein persulfidation dynamics, and sulfur-based radical scavenging systems. Key contributions include developing real-time imaging probes for redox species and elucidating redox relays connecting peroxiredoxins to transcription factors like STAT3. Current research explores hydropersulfide protection against ferroptosis and metabolic adaptation through redox-sensitive enzymes. Publication Trends: Over 15 years of high-impact publications reveal an evolutionary trajectory from foundational redox imaging techniques (2008-2011) to sophisticated molecular mechanism studies (2013-2020), culminating in recent breakthroughs on sulfur signaling in cell death pathways (2023). His work consistently appears in premier journals like Nature Chemical Biology , demonstrating sustained innovation in redox biology methodology and conceptual frameworks. Scientific Recognition: ERC Advanced Grant (2017) Society for Free Radical Research Europe Basic Science Award (2017) Chica- and Heinz-Schaller-Award for young scientists (2009) Marie Curie Excellence Grant (2004) DFG Postdoctoral Fellowship (1998-2000) Studienstiftung des Deutschen Volkes Scholarship (1989-1994) Leadership & Mentorship: As founding vice-coordinator of DFG priority program SPP1710 (2014-present) and GBM Redox Biology Study Group (2011-2017), Dick shapes national research agendas. His division at DKFZ mentors next-generation scientists through ERC and DFG-funded projects, with trainees contributing to landmark publications on redox switches and cellular physiology. Research Infrastructure: The Division of Redox Regulation operates within DKFZ's state-of-the-art facilities, collaborating extensively through the SFB/TRR186 consortium. This environment enables cutting-edge investigations into redox-controlled cellular processes using advanced biochemical, imaging, and computational approaches.
Prof. Ilse Dewachter is the head of the Biomed Neuroscience research group at Hasselt University (UHasselt), specializing in Alzheimer’s therapy and prevention for over 25 years. Her work focuses on multi-targeted therapies targeting tau, inflammation, and ApoE, alongside pioneering research into disease prevention via blood-based biomarkers. Recent studies explore a protective APOE3ch mutation that halted Alzheimer’s progression in a patient, offering hope for new treatments. Research Interests: - Alzheimer’s disease mechanisms (Abeta, tau, inflammation) - Multi-target therapies and biomarker development - Neurodegenerative disease prevention strategies - Genetic mutations impacting disease progression Articles Overview: Her most recent work (2025-2022) addresses neuroinflammation, tau propagation models, and AI-driven neuroimaging. Key themes include APOE genetics, blood-brain barrier dynamics, and exercise impacts on cognition. Funding & Grants: Current projects require significant investment for advanced biomarker equipment and clinical trials. A notable €300,000 grant funded research on brain lipid metabolism’s role in Alzheimer’s. Labs & Teams: Leads the BIOMED Neuroscience group at UHasselt, collaborating internationally on preclinical models and drug development.
Dr. Monica P. Colaiacovo is a Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School, where she leads research in the Department of Genetics within the Blavatnik Institute. Her laboratory is located in the New Research Building in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Colaiacovo's research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of meiosis, chromosome dynamics, and DNA repair in the Caenorhabditis elegans model system. Her work examines how environmental toxicants impact germline function and reproductive health, with particular emphasis on chromosome segregation, recombination, and the synaptonemal complex. Her publications reveal a consistent research trajectory examining critical aspects of meiotic chromosome behavior, including double-strand break formation and repair, crossover designation, and chromosome movement during prophase I. Her laboratory has made significant contributions to understanding how environmental exposures like bisphenol A and phthalates disrupt normal meiotic progression and lead to germline dysfunction. Dr. Colaiacovo's work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections between basic chromosome biology, environmental health sciences, and reproductive medicine. Her research group employs advanced genetic, molecular, and imaging techniques to dissect the complex mechanisms ensuring accurate chromosome segregation during gamete formation. Her laboratory actively collaborates with researchers studying aging, DNA repair pathways, and environmental toxicology, as evidenced by publications spanning multiple high-impact journals including Nature, PLoS Genetics, and Genetics.
Virginia Davis is the Dr. Daniel F. and Josephine Breeden Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Auburn University's College of Engineering. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from Rice University, and M.S. and B.S. degrees in Chemical Engineering from Tulane University. Research Focus: Self-assembly of nanomaterials, rheology, lyotropic liquid crystals, additive manufacturing, polymers, nanocomposites, and biosensors Key Projects: USDA-funded agricultural outreach, NSF grant for MXene dispersion studies, Alabama STEM Council member Her recent publications explore cellulose nanocrystals, MXene 3D printing, and sustainable polymer recycling. Davis has received multiple honors including the Breeden Professorship, AIChE Fellowship, and Auburn University Faculty Awards for research and mentorship. Research Trends: Dominated by bio-based nanomaterials (cellulose nanocrystals, MXenes), with applications in additive manufacturing, environmental remediation (PFAS adsorption), biosensors (carbofuran detection, cancer biomarkers), and agricultural delivery systems. Scientific Awards Auburn University Faculty Awards (2023, 2025) AIChE Fellow (2023) Dr. Daniel F. and Josephine Breeden Professorship Davis leads outreach initiatives like the Tomorrow’s Community Innovators camp and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams on plastic recycling innovations. Her work emphasizes both fundamental material science and practical applications addressing environmental and agricultural challenges.
