Dr. Marie Alminger is a Senior Researcher at Chalmers University of Technology , specializing in Food and Nutrition Science . Her work focuses on bioactive compounds in foods, sustainable processing techniques, and valorization of agricultural and marine by-products. Circular utilization of banana pulp, fish co-products, and berry residues Innovative pH-shift processing with antioxidant-rich materials International projects targeting food safety in East Africa Research trends emphasize in vitro digestion models , lipid oxidation control , and cross-processing methods integrating marine and agricultural streams. Publications span Food Chemistry , Molecular Nutrition & Food Research , and Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry , reflecting multidisciplinary approaches to food functionality and sustainability.
Dr. Sownak Bose is an Associate Professor (Research) at Durham University's Department of Physics and holds a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship. His work focuses on computational cosmology, galaxy formation, and dark matter studies through large-scale simulations. Research Interests Cosmological simulations (MillenniumTNG, IllustrisTNG, AbacusSummit) Dark matter properties and modified gravity models Galaxy clustering and large-scale structure AGN feedback and baryonic effects His recent publications explore topics including: Accreted stellar halos in low-mass galaxies Impact of massive neutrinos on cosmic structure Multiwavelength mass accretion rate estimation Machine learning-based galaxy-halo connection Scientific Awards: UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship He supervises postgraduate research students and collaborates on major projects like DESI, eROSITA, and H3 survey. His work bridges theoretical models with observational data to constrain cosmological parameters.
Giovanni Russo is a Full Professor of Numerical Analysis at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Catania, Italy . He coordinates the PhD program in Pure and Applied Mathematics and has been a visiting scholar at institutions including Courant Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, University of Michigan, and University of Bordeaux. His career spans over four decades across academia and research institutions. Education: PhD in Physics (1986, University of Catania), Laurea in Nuclear Engineering (1982, Politecnico di Milano). Research Interests: Russo specializes in Computational Fluid Dynamics , Numerical Methods for Conservation Laws , and Kinetic Equations . His work includes asymptotic preserving schemes , IMEX methods , semi-Lagrangian schemes , and high-order numerical techniques for PDEs with applications to fluid dynamics, plasma physics, and multiscale modeling. Scientific Trends: Recent publications focus on modeling epidemic dynamics , kinetic equations for inert mixtures , semi-Lagrangian methods , and uncertainty quantification in quantum systems. These works reflect his expertise in high-order numerical schemes , multiscale analysis , and applied mathematical modeling . Scientific Awards: CNR-NATO Fellowship (1987) Advising and Grants: Russo has supervised nine PhD students and served as Principal Investigator (PI) for major projects including MOSCOVID (modeling COVID-19) and ModCompShock (Horizon 2020 Marie Curie project). He has also organized international conferences like the 18th European Conference on Mathematics for Industry with 370 participants. Labs and Teams: Russo collaborates with research groups at the University of Catania and has been a visiting researcher at Courant Institute, University of Michigan, and GSSI L’Aquila. He contributes to journals as an editor and reviewer, including SIAM Journal of Numerical Analysis and Journal of Computational Physics .
Susan Spesyvtseva is a Knowledge Exchange Fellow and Associate Dean (Knowledge Exchange) in the Faculty of Science at the University of Strathclyde, based in the Department of Physics. Her work bridges academic research and industrial innovation, focusing on photonics, quantum technologies, space, and applied physics. She plays a key role in facilitating collaborations between industry, government, and academia through mechanisms such as consultancy, KTPs, CPD, and Innovate UK projects. Education: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applications of Cylindrical Vector Beams to Optical Micromanipulation, University College London (2013) Master of Physics (MPhys), University of St Andrews (2008) Susan's research interests lie at the intersection of photonics and real-world applications. She specializes in optical trapping, beam shaping, and plasmonics, with a strong emphasis on use-inspired research. Her work enables technologies in medical devices, space instrumentation, and advanced manufacturing. She actively promotes knowledge transfer and innovation through partnerships with RTOs and industry. Her recent publications focus on optical manipulation techniques, particularly using structured light and vector beams to control nanoparticles. The research demonstrates trends in precision control of micro- and nano-objects, with applications in biophysics, materials science, and lab-on-a-chip systems. Key themes include rotational dynamics, photothermal effects, and chirality-selective optical forces. Scientific Awards: British Science Association Media Fellowship (2015) Carey Foster Prize (2013) UK Physics Student of the Year, World Leadership Forum (2008) Susan advises on and manages multiple research grants and innovation projects, including those funded by the Wellcome Trust and internal university schemes. She leads initiatives such as the Space Photonics project and the Cultures of Collaborative Research project. As a Knowledge Exchange expert, she supports PhD student projects, proof-of-concept studies, and CPD programs, particularly in laser technologies. She is also involved in professional activities including consultancy, conference organization, and public engagement. She is associated with the Space Academic Network (SPAN) and contributes to Strathclyde’s leadership in photonics and quantum technologies. Her role as Associate Dean enhances cross-faculty collaboration, especially in science and engineering domains. She is a central figure in building innovation ecosystems around emerging technologies.
Carlo Rigoni is a Visiting Professor in the Department of Applied Physics, focusing on non-equilibrium systems and colloidal assembly. His research spans nanoparticle science, ferrofluid dynamics, and aqueous two-phase systems. Education: Doctoral degree in Natural Sciences from University of Padua Active projects: DissNano (2021–2024) on dissipative nanomaterials Research interests include: Coarse-grained modeling of colloidal systems Electrically/magnetically controlled fluid interfaces Self-assembly of nanoparticles in liquid crystals Non-equilibrium pattern formation in soft matter Thermodynamic control of multiphase separation Bio-inspired nanoparticle superlattices His recent publications address computational modeling of aqueous two-phase systems, magnetic colloids, and electroferrofluids. Collaborative activities include conference presentations on interfacial tension, magnetic rollers, and colloidal gradients. He contributes to open scientific datasets and disseminates findings through platforms like ORCID (0000-0001-6960-779X).
Professor David A Ritchie is a Fellow in Natural Sciences (Physics) and Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Cambridge. He leads the Semiconductor Physics Group at the Cavendish Laboratory, focusing on quantum physics and semiconductor technology. Education: MA in Physics (University of Oxford, 1980), DPhil in Low-Temperature Liquid Helium Physics (University of Sussex, 1985) His research explores semiconductor physics, quantum dots, and terahertz technology, with contributions to spintronics and low-dimensional electron systems. Recent work addresses quantum entanglement and artificial bandstructures in GaAs heterostructures. He has published extensively on THz modulation, quantum cascade lasers, and electron correlation effects. His awards include the 2008 Tabor Medal and Prize from the Institute of Physics. Current publications analyze quantum Hall systems, spin-resolved magnetic focusing, and scalable entangled photon generation. Ritchie’s group develops cryogenic THz delivery systems and hybrid superconducting-semiconducting nanostructures.
Dr James Campbell is a Reader in Structural Integrity at Brunel University London's Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering within the College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences. With a PhD in hypervelocity impact on spacecraft and 20+ years of experience leading multidisciplinary projects, he specializes in non-linear numerical methods (FE and SPH), structural integrity, and impact analysis across aerospace, defense, and automotive sectors. BEng in Aeronautical Engineering, Imperial College London MSc and PhD in Astronautics and Space Engineering, Cranfield University His research focuses on: Transient response of materials/structures (e.g., space debris impact, aircraft crashworthiness) Meshless methods like Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) Constitutive models for isotropic/orthotropic materials Fluid-structure interaction in ditching and extreme wave events Recent work trends include space debris removal tools, composite material development for offshore energy, and advanced SPH algorithms for impact simulations. Awards include the Derek George Astridge Safety in Aerospace Award (2009) and Royal Institute of Naval Architects Medal (2010). He supervises PhD/MSc students and delivers CPD courses for industry (Boeing, Leonardo). Research group: IMM (International Marine and Offshore). Collaborations include Airbus, DLR, and ESA.
Professor Alexander Routh is a leading academic in Colloid Science at the University of Cambridge's Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, where he has been based since 2006. His research spans physical sciences with applications in industrial processes and diagnostic technologies. His research focuses on encapsulation techniques , drying dynamics of colloidal dispersions , and energy-efficient industrial modeling . Key areas include pattern formation during film drying, stratification mechanisms, neutron scattering applications, and development of low-cost diagnostic devices through blood droplet analysis. His work bridges fundamental colloid science with practical engineering solutions. Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate strong emphasis on microencapsulation systems for consumer products, magnetic photocatalysts for environmental remediation, and neurodegenerative disease mechanisms through protein aggregation studies. The research consistently integrates experimental work with computational modeling. Routh maintains active collaborations across disciplines, particularly with biomedical researchers studying α-synuclein aggregation and petroleum engineers investigating wellbore integrity. His laboratory work frequently employs advanced imaging and scattering techniques to probe colloidal behavior at micro and nano scales.
Dr Matthias Kramer is a Senior Lecturer at the UNSW Canberra , School of Engineering and Information Technology. He has previously worked at the University of Queensland and the University of Stuttgart. His research focuses on open-channel hydrodynamics with an emphasis on multiphase flows, hydraulic structures, and measurement instrumentation. Education: PhD from University of Stuttgart (2015) on 'Air demand of impulse turbines in counter pressure operation' His research interests include open-channel flow dynamics, multiphase flow analysis, and the development of innovative flow measurement technologies . He has extensively published on topics such as air-water flow properties , turbulent free-surface flows , and plastic pollution transport in fluvial systems. His recent publications demonstrate a focus on environmental engineering , with strong emphasis on fluid dynamics , instrumentation , and hydrological systems . These works include studies on air-water flow measurement , plastic transport modeling , and hydraulic structure design . Dr Kramer has received multiple scientific awards including: UNSW Rector Funded Visiting Fellowship Research Infrastructure Scheme (Combined open-channel/wave flume) Substantial merit-based startup grant (UNSW Canberra) Establishment award (UNSW Canberra) DFG research fellowship on 'Air-water mass transfer at hydraulic structures' He currently supervises PhD candidate Hanwen Cui (joint with Dr Stefan Felder) and Masters student Reilly Cox (UNSW Sydney). Dr Kramer is involved in hydro-environmental research infrastructure at UNSW and serves on the Editorial Panel of ICE Water Management .
Alexander R.H. Smith, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Physics at Saint Anselm College and holds an adjunct appointment at Dartmouth College. His research employs information-theoretic methods to investigate quantum theory and gravitational physics, focusing on quantum time dilation, relational quantum mechanics, and quantum field theory in curved spacetimes. Education Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics, University of Waterloo, Canada (2017) Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics, Macquarie University, Australia (2017) M.Sc. in Theoretical Physics, University of Toronto, Canada (2012) B.Sc. in Physics, University of Waterloo, Canada (2011) Academic Appointments Assistant Professor of Physics, Saint Anselm College (2020–present) Adjunct Assistant Professor, Dartmouth College (2020–present) Junior Fellow, Society of Fellows, Dartmouth College (2017–2020) Postdoctoral Fellow, National Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (2017–2019) Research Interests Smith's research adopts John Wheeler's 'radically conservative' approach, pushing quantum theory and general relativity to their extremes. Key areas include: Quantum Time Dilation : Exploring quantum corrections to relativistic time dilation using superposed clocks. Relational Quantum Physics : Developing frameworks for quantum reference frames to eliminate classical dependencies. Quantum Field Theory in Curved Spacetime : Studying operational probes like Unruh-DeWitt detectors to analyze spacetime effects. Satellite-Based Tests : Leveraging quantum technologies for experimental tests of general relativity. Publication Trends Recent articles (2019–2021) concentrate on quantum time dilation, relational dynamics, and entanglement in curved spacetimes, with experimental implications for fundamental physics. Earlier work (2016–2018) established foundations in quantum reference frames and relativistic quantum information. Awards and Fellowships Junior Fellow, Society of Fellows, Dartmouth College (2017–2020) Postdoctoral Fellowship, NSERC Canada (2017–2019) Smith teaches undergraduate physics courses including Calculus-Based Physics, Classical Mechanics, and Quantum Mechanics.
Remco Westerink is Associate Professor at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and head of the Neurotoxicology Research Group at the Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS). His work focuses on cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurotoxicants in food, drugs, and environmental pollutants. Expertise Areas: In vitro toxicology, developmental neurotoxicology, neuropharmacology, microplastics, risk assessment of chemicals Techniques: Multi-electrode arrays, calcium imaging, PC12 cell models, human iPSC-derived neurons Research explores how pollutants like pesticides, flame retardants, and microplastics affect brain development, function, and degeneration through key projects including EU-funded initiatives (TUBE, ENDpoiNTs) and national collaborations. Recent articles highlight his team's work on neurotoxic effects of: Microplastics crossing blood-brain barrier Bisphenols and PFAS disrupting neuronal networks Insecticides altering calcium signaling Organophosphate flame retardants (TCP) linked to aerotoxic syndrome Designer drugs affecting neurotransmission Scientific Contributions: Editorial Board: NeuroToxicology , Toxicology in Vitro Keynote Speaker: 1st International Congress on Global Environmental Contamination (2014) Invited Talks: International Neurotoxicology Association meetings (2012-2017) Westerink leads research into advanced in vitro models to replace animal testing, including development of 48-well microelectrode array platforms and collaborations with Mimetas and RIVM for organ-on-a-chip technology.
Barbara Mones is a Teaching Professor in the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering at the University of Washington. She serves as Director of the Reality Studio, part of the Reality Lab, and leads the Facial Expression Research Group (FERG) and the Octopus Research Group (ORG). Education: Undergraduate degree from University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Post graduate certification in Animation from Sheridan College, Oakville, Canada MFA from Rhode Island School of Design Professor Mones specializes in Human-Centered Computing and Interaction with the Physical World, with expertise in Augmented, Virtual & Mixed Reality; Computer Graphics & Animation; and Computing Education Research. Her research focuses on the intersection of animation, storytelling, and immersive technologies, exploring how these can be effectively integrated into educational contexts and creative production pipelines. She has developed specialized curriculum for facial expression in animated characters and immersive storytelling environments. Professor Mones has directed and produced more than twenty animated shorts throughout her career at the University of Washington. Her recent works demonstrate expertise in character animation, facial expression, and digital storytelling, often incorporating innovative techniques in virtual and augmented reality. These films showcase her commitment to advancing both the artistic and technical aspects of computer animation. Scientific Awards: SIGGRAPH 2021 Distinguished Teaching Award NASA Group Achievement Award Professor Mones has been instrumental in developing animation curriculum that has influenced programs worldwide. She serves on the ACM SIGGRAPH Executive Committee and the Education Committee, where she continues to shape computer graphics education globally. Her teaching approach emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning through the complete animation production pipeline. She leads the Reality Studio, which focuses on research and development in immersive storytelling technologies, and oversees the Facial Expression Research Group which investigates the technical and artistic aspects of creating expressive digital characters for animation and virtual environments.
Dr. Zhaoxia Pu is a Professor in the Department of Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Utah and an Adjunct Professor at the School of Computing . Recognized as a Fellow of both the American Meteorological Society and the Royal Meteorological Society, she serves on the NOAA Science Advisory Board and has led 38 federally funded projects from agencies including NOAA, NASA, NSF, DOE, and ONR. Specializes in numerical weather prediction , data assimilation , and AI/machine learning for high-impact weather systems Developed advanced methods integrating satellite/radar data (GOES-R, CYGNSS, TROPICS) with Earth system models (UFS, E3SM, WRF) Recipient of the 2024 Excellence in Research Award and 2023 Provost's Banner Project recognition Research Trends : Her recent publications focus on: Machine learning approaches for precipitation retrieval using GOES-R data Cold fog microphysics and visibility parameterization in complex terrain Tropical cyclone dynamics through radar and lidar data assimilation Boundary layer turbulence in landfalling storms Drought mechanisms linked to synoptic-scale circulation New particle formation in mountainous regions Scientific Leadership : Lead scientist for CFACT NSF field campaign (2021–2025) Editorial board member of leading journals Active reviewer for NSF, DOE, NOAA, and NASA Teaching & Mentorship : Teaches Numerical Weather Prediction , Atmospheric Dynamics , and Introduction to Atmospheric Sciences courses. Has supervised 28 graduate students to completion.
Verena Kriechbaumer is a Senior Lecturer in Biotechnology and Plant Sciences at the School of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University . She is Deputy Director of the Oxford Brookes University Centre for Bioimaging and a leading expert in plant endoplasmic reticulum (ER) structure, membrane proteins, and auxin biosynthesis, utilizing biochemical techniques, high-resolution live cell imaging, and interdisciplinary approaches. Research Focus: Plant cell biology, ER architecture, auxin metabolic pathways, protein-membrane interactions, bioinformatics, and translational projects such as engineering plants to convert methane into biofuel. Key Techniques: FRET-FLIM, light sheet microscopy, single-particle tracking, and optogenetics. Publication Trends: Recent studies emphasize ER-membrane contact sites, organelle interaction networks, and the role of reticulons in viral trafficking and methane monooxygenase expression. Collaborative work spans physics, bioenergy, and industrial biotechnology. Scientific Awards: Fellowship from Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies (2013) Santander Travel Fellowship (2018) Oxford Brookes Research Excellence Award (2020-21) Grants: Leverhulme Trust grant for "pMMO in plants" (2015-2017), STFC Harwell facility grants (2017-2021), BBSRC funding (2021-2026), and industry collaborations with Porton Biopharma Ltd. Labs & Teams: Leads the Endomembrane Structure and Function Group , collaborates with physicists at STFC Harwell Campus, and contributes to European Commission-funded projects like "Advanced Training for Next Generation Scientists in Spatio-Temporal Imaging."
Mark Wilson is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Durham University, where he leads the Computational Soft Matter research group. His laboratory is housed in the Wolfson Suite for Computational Chemistry, focusing on molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations of complex molecular systems. The group's research is primarily funded by EPSRC grants, supporting investigations into liquid crystals, polymers, proteins, and nanostructured materials. Wilson's research integrates theoretical chemistry with computational physics to study: Self-assembly processes in chromonic liquid crystals and surfactants Multiscale modeling approaches combining atomistic and coarse-grained methods Protein dynamics and allosteric regulation mechanisms Phase behavior of bent-core liquid crystals and ferroelectric nematics Interfacial phenomena in polymer-surfactant systems Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals strong emphasis on: methodological developments in dissipative particle dynamics; molecular engineering of pharmaceuticals; and predictive modeling of soft material behavior. Recurring themes include surfactant phase diagrams, liquid crystal polymorphism, and computational methods validation through experimental collaboration. Wilson currently supervises four PhD students and maintains an active research team with six group members. His laboratory utilizes advanced high-performance computing resources for large-scale simulations, with recent work extending to biomolecular systems including beta-amyloid aggregation and antimicrobial peptides.
