David Neivandt is a Professor at the Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering at the University of Maine. His research focuses on interfacial phenomena in biological and industrial systems, utilizing advanced spectroscopic techniques like Sum Frequency Spectroscopy (SFS) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). B.Sc. (Hons), University of Melbourne Ph.D., University of Melbourne Dr. Neivandt’s work examines how surface-active molecules such as lipids and polyelectrolytes alter interface properties, with applications in biomedical engineering, pulp and paper industries, and membrane biophysics. His research combines experimental and theoretical approaches to characterize interfacial structures at molecular resolution. His recent publications highlight studies on protein secretion mechanisms, cellulose-lipid interactions, and sensor development. Collaborative projects span lipid bilayer dynamics, laser-induced material structuring, and adhesion phenomena in composites. He mentors graduate students including Nick Carter and contributes to science education outreach initiatives.
Cristina Balagna is an Associate Professor at the Department of Applied Science and Technology (DISAT), Polytechnic University of Turin, where she also conducts research as a member of the Interdepartmental Center J-Tech@PoliTO and the GLANCE research group. She holds a PhD in Materials Science and Technology (2011) and a Master’s in Biomedical Engineering (2007), both from the same institution. Her research focuses on nanostructured antimicrobial and virucidal coatings , particularly using co-sputtering techniques to develop durable, eco-friendly composite coatings based on glass/glass-ceramic matrices and metal nanoparticles (silver, copper, zinc). These coatings are applied to materials for aerospace, biomedical, civil, and filtration applications, demonstrating high thermal, chemical, and mechanical resistance, with stability up to 450°C. Her work spans the development of bulk glasses, glass-ceramics, composites, porous materials, and thin films. The most recent publications highlight innovations in antibacterial ceramic coatings for liquid filtration , antiviral air filters , functional textiles, and spacecraft surface protection. These studies reflect a strong trend toward public health, environmental safety, and industrial applications, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health), 9 (Industry and Innovation), and 4 (Quality Education). ECD Jubilee Global Diversity Award, The American Ceramic Society (2022) She has served as Principal Investigator on major projects including the EU-funded BIO-KILLER (2019–2021) and the NANOBLOC platform (2023–2025), focusing on antipathogen coatings for reusable filters. She co-authored a patent on antiviral substrate coatings (WO2019/082001), which has generated licensed royalties. Cristina Balagna actively supervises PhD students and contributes to doctoral education in Materials Science and Technology. She is also a co-organizer of the Bioceramics Symposium at ICACC since 2021 and has participated in numerous European and international research initiatives. Her research team, GLANCE, operates within DISAT and specializes in advanced materials for extreme environments, joining technologies, and sustainable materials engineering. The group offers industrial collaboration, problem-solving, and training in materials characterization and processing.
Karol Wolski is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University. His research focuses on conductive polymer nanobrushes, organic mixed ionic-electronic conductors (OMIECs), and nanotechnology-driven applications in energy, electronics, and biomedicine. He completed his PhD in 2016 under Prof. Szczepan Zapotoczny and has held postdoctoral positions, including collaborations at the University of Siegen (Germany) and the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research (MPG). Education: Bachelor's in Chemistry (2010), Jagiellonian University MSc in Chemistry (2012), Jagiellonian University (supervisor: Prof. Zapotoczny) PhD in Chemistry (2016), Jagiellonian University (thesis: "Synthesis and Characterization of Conductive Polymer Nanobrushes Grafted from Flat Surfaces" ) Completed the interdisciplinary doctoral program "Society – Environment – Technologies" (2013–2016) Research interests span polymer brush synthesis (e.g., ATRP methods), AFM characterization of nanomaterials, and applications in organic electronics (e.g., memristive devices, FETs). His work bridges fundamental polymer chemistry with practical advancements in smart materials, drug delivery systems, and sustainable functional materials. Awards include the START scholarship (2018) and a Minister of Science and Higher Education scholarship (2021–2024) , along with four Rector’s Awards from Jagiellonian University (2021–2024). He has supervised 5 BSc, 4 MSc, and 3 PhD theses (co-supervisor) and currently co-supervises 3 PhD students. Grants: Principal Investigator: SONATA 14 (NCN, PLN 798,654) MAESTRO 15 (NCN, PLN 4,728,700) ADEVASCO Virtual Research Institute (PLN 78,578,024.95) Labs/Teams: Member of the Nanoengineering of Functional Polymeric Materials group. Collaborates internationally, including with MPG’s Prof. Paul Blom. Serves as Topic Editor for Polymers (MDPI) and guest editor for special issues on polymer brushes and biomedical materials.
проф. др Марија Николић is an Associate Professor at the Department of General and Inorganic Chemistry within the Faculty of Technical Sciences at the University of Belgrade. Her research focuses on macromolecular chemistry, polymer science, and nanomaterials, with an emphasis on biodegradable polymers and functional polymer synthesis. She has advised numerous Master’s and PhD students in projects involving nanocomposites, polymer blends, and biomaterials. Her teaching responsibilities include courses such as Rheology of Polymers, Chemistry of Macromolecules, and Biodegradable Polymeric Materials. She is affiliated with the TMF institution, located in велика зграда, канцеларија 111. Her research explores the synthesis and characterization of polymers for biomedical and industrial applications, including studies on sepiolite-modified nanocomposites and controlled drug release systems. Email: mnikolic@tmf.bg.ac.rs Office: велика зграда, канцеларија 111 Her research highlights include investigations into the thermal and mechanical properties of PCL-based nanocomposites and the development of biodegradable copolymers for medical applications. Recent work involves the synthesis of functional polymers with tailored degradation profiles and nanostructured materials for drug delivery systems. Students supervised: Over 25 Master’s and PhD students since 2004. Key research areas: Polymer nanotechnology, biodegradable materials, and polymer rheology.
ас. др Радослава Правиловић holds the position of Assistant Professor at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Technical-Metallurgical Faculty of the University of Belgrade. Their work focuses on process control, food engineering, and encapsulation technologies. Key areas include development of lipid-based delivery systems, polyphenol encapsulation in biopolymers, and optimization of bioprocessing techniques. Research interests emphasize biomaterials applications in food and pharmaceutical industries, with notable contributions to liposome formulations, hydrogel encapsulation for bioactives, and membrane bioreactor design. Over 15 peer-reviewed articles demonstrate expertise in controlled release systems, surfactant interactions, and bioactive compound stabilization. Collaborations include projects on polyphenol diffusion kinetics, hemoglobin isolation from slaughterhouse byproducts, and nanoscale drug delivery systems. No formal awards were explicitly listed in the provided text. Teaching responsibilities include courses on process modeling, simulation, and control systems, reflecting their dual role in education and research. Active participation in international conferences highlights engagement with emerging trends in material science and biochemical engineering.
Tatjana Ž. Verbić is an Associate Professor at the University of Belgrade's Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Analytical Chemistry. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the same institution and has held academic positions since 1997. Her research focuses on chemical equilibria in biologically active molecules and molecularly imprinted polymers. Education: Bachelor's in Chemistry (University of Belgrade, 1997) Master's in Chemistry (University of Belgrade, 2001) PhD in Chemistry (University of Belgrade, 2010) Research Interests: Her work encompasses drug solubility, molecular imprinting techniques, chemical equilibria modeling, and the development of antimicrobial and antiviral compounds. She has contributed to the design of selective molecularly imprinted polymers and advanced analytical methods. Key Achievements: Recipient of the Serbian Chemical Society Award (1998) Fulbright Visiting Scholar (2021-2022) Lead researcher in EU-funded projects like 'Molecules in Motion' (2014) Editorial board member of ADMET & DMPK journal Professional Roles: Former Vice Dean of Academic Affairs (2015-2018) Chair of the Committee for Monitoring Quality of Teaching (2020–present) Member of Serbian Chemical Society and American Chemical Society Lab and Collaborations: Her research group 'Chemical Equilibria' collaborates internationally with institutions like St. John's University (USA), Iowa State University (USA), and Budapest University of Technology (Hungary). She has supervised numerous projects on drug formulation, nanomaterials, and molecular sensors.
James C. Sturm is the Stephen R. Forrest Professor of Electrical Engineering and Associated Faculty at the Princeton Materials Institute. He leads the Sturm Lab, focusing on materials, processing, and devices for microelectronics and macroelectronics. His work spans silicon-based heterojunctions, three-dimensional integration, and large-area electronics for flexible displays and biomedical applications. He holds a B.S.E. from Princeton University and a Ph.D. from Stanford University. His research bridges nanoscale device scaling and low-cost, large-area manufacturing technologies for organic semiconductors and TFTs. Key research areas include VLSI scaling, optoelectronics, and applications of zinc-oxide thin-film transistors (ZnO TFTs) for GHz circuits. He has pioneered methods for microfluidic cell processing and structural health monitoring using sensing sheets. His lab develops soft robotics and hybrid LAE-CMOS systems for tactile sensing skins. Education: Ph.D., Stanford University, 1985 M.S.E.E., Stanford University, 1981 B.S.E., Electrical Engineering (Engineering Physics), Princeton University, 1979 His publications highlight breakthroughs in GHz-frequency electronics, piezoelectric robotics, and large-area RFID systems. Awards include the IEEE Fellowship and Princeton’s President’s Distinguished Teaching Award. He advises students in microelectronics, macroelectronics, and biomedical engineering. Recent work integrates AI with large-area electronics for smart spaces and explores drug gradient effects on cancer cell evolution. The Sturm Lab collaborates on projects like the 'evolution accelerator' for real-time cancer cell observation and 3D semiconductor integration with industrial FDSOI platforms.
Andreas Kandelbauer is a Professor and Vice-Dean for Research at Reutlingen University's School of Life Sciences. He serves as Programme Director for the Bachelor of Chemistry & Sustainable Processes and Master of Polymer Chemistry & Process Analysis. His roles include overseeing academic research and administrative responsibilities in materials science education. His research focuses on thermoset plastics, polymer chemistry, and advanced materials processing. Key areas include bio-based composites, surface engineering, and process optimization. He leads projects on epoxy resins, self-healing materials, and curing kinetics, with applications in biomedical and industrial materials. Publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, linking material synthesis with analytical techniques like FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. Recent work explores lignin-based adhesives, epoxy molding compounds, and mesoporous silica structures. Over 100 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters highlight his contributions to polymer science. Kandelbauer collaborates with industry on sustainable materials and process analytical technologies. His labs focus on smart biomaterials and biosystems, advancing eco-friendly composites and biomedical applications. No specific awards are listed, though his extensive publication record reflects academic recognition.
Martin Given is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, Faculty of Engineering, where he has been actively involved in research and teaching since 1982. He serves as First Year Advisor of Studies and the undergraduate academic selector for his department, contributing significantly to student guidance and program development. His research centers on the properties and performance of electrical insulation systems, with a focus on ageing, breakdown mechanisms, and diagnostic techniques. Key areas include multifactorial stress testing (including radiation and space simulation), dielectric spectroscopy, space charge effects, and high-power ultrasound generation. His work has applications in high-voltage engineering, power systems, and advanced materials. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in understanding spark discharges in water, surface flashover on polymers, and acoustic signal propagation from partial discharges. These studies reflect a multidisciplinary approach combining high-voltage engineering, plasma physics, acoustics, and materials science, often in collaboration with researchers like Igor Timoshkin and Scott MacGregor. The research emphasizes energy characterization, impulse dynamics, and material response under extreme electrical stress. Martin Given has served as a referee for IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation and as an External Examiner for PhD theses, demonstrating active engagement in academic peer review and quality assurance. He has participated in multiple externally funded research projects, primarily with EPSRC and the Royal Academy of Engineering. He is involved in research supervision, as indicated by his role in doctoral training programs and records of supervised work. His projects include Breakdown Mechanisms in Dielectric Fluids , EPSRC CDT in Future Power Networks , and studies on non-thermal plasmas and magnetization modeling. These efforts support graduate training and innovation in power engineering and insulation technology. Martin Given's laboratory and research group focus on high-voltage testing, dielectric characterization, and pulse power systems. His team conducts experiments on breakdown in gases, liquids, and solids, utilizing advanced diagnostics for condition monitoring and failure prediction in electrical insulation. The integration of nano-particles and ultrasound for material modification represents an innovative direction in his research.
Claudia Graiff is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at the Engineering Faculty of the University of Parma , with a focus on organometallic synthesis, sustainable materials, and cultural heritage conservation. She earned her PhD at the University of Parma and conducted postdoctoral work at the University of Strasbourg and Sevilla. Research Areas: Chalcogen transfer reactions, alkali-activated sustainable materials, nanostructured sol-gel-derived materials for artifact protection, polyamidoamines, nanocellulose suspensions, and titanium dioxide photocatalysis. Teaching: Delivers foundational chemistry courses for food technology, mechanical engineering, and management engineering. Scientific Awards: Bonati 'Junior' Prize (2004) for young researchers. Recent Publications highlight advancements in: Photoselective self-assembly of metal clusters Innovative methods for historical plaster conservation Nanocellulose-based wood protection materials Electrocatalytic sulfite detection sensors Gold(III) complexes for halogen anion sensing
Dr. Palat Meethale Ushasree is a Lecturer in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Teesside University's School of Computing, Engineering, and Digital Technologies. She serves as an External Examiner for six engineering programs at Wrexham University and has held teaching roles at INTO Newcastle University and Teesside University International Study Centre. Expertise in photovoltaics, semiconductor devices, and crystal growth Recipient of Gold Shine Awards for online teaching excellence Active in industry collaborations with companies like Kromek and Power Roll Ltd Her research focuses on sustainable energy technologies and nonlinear optical materials, supported by grants from JSPS, Daphne Jackson Trust, and CSIR. She has 20 peer-reviewed publications and serves as a co-supervisor for PhD projects on electric vehicle energy systems and intelligent building management. Education: PhD in Material Science and Engineering from Anna University (1999) Awards: Fellow of Higher Education Academy (2021), Daphne Jackson Fellow (2014) Teaching: Specializes in electrical principles, semiconductor devices, and renewable energy systems
Tamara Freeman is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of British Columbia (UBCO). As a First Year Coordinator , she oversees both lectures and laboratories for undergraduate courses including CHEM 111/113, CHEM 121/123, and CHEM 214.
Dr. Robert Kirchner serves as Group Leader at the Center for Advancing Electronics Dresden (cfaed) at Dresden University of Technology, where he heads the Mesoscopic 3D Systems Group. Since 2017, he has held a prestigious DFG Heisenberg Stipendiat position, focusing on advanced 3D fabrication technologies. His research group is closely associated with the HETEROMERGE startup project, which develops innovative hardware solutions for multi-material 3D printing on two-photon systems with unprecedented precision and speed. Dr. Kirchner's academic journey includes: PhD (Dr.Ing.) in Electrical Engineering from Dresden University of Technology and Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems (2007-2011) Diploma in Electrical Engineering from Dresden University of Technology and Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden (2001-2007) His research program centers on high-resolution 3D lithography techniques including electron beam lithography (EBL), two-photon polymerization (2PP), and extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography. He investigates self-optimization and self-organization processes in mesoscopic systems, particularly Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) and Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems (NEMS). His work explores material characterization and the modification of polymer properties through high-energy radiation exposure, along with computational modeling of surface effects on polymer melts. The Kirchner Group develops novel approaches to 3D micro- and nanofabrication with applications spanning micro-optics, plasmonics, and multi-material integration for advanced devices. Analysis of Dr. Kirchner's publication record reveals a clear trajectory from fundamental fabrication techniques toward increasingly complex multi-material systems and commercial applications. His early work focused on basic lithography and surface modification techniques, while recent publications emphasize practical implementations in multi-material 3D printing, plasmonic structures, and MEMS integration. The establishment of HETEROMERGE represents a significant commercialization effort translating academic research into industry-ready technology for multi-material 3D printing at nanoscale resolution. Dr. Kirchner's most significant recognition is the DFG Heisenberg Stipendiat award, which supports exceptional researchers on the path to professorship in Germany. His work has secured substantial research funding, including affiliation with Research Training Group 2767 "Supracolloidal Structures: From Materials to Optical and Electronic Devices" funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft. DFG Heisenberg Stipendiat (2017-present) Dr. Kirchner actively mentors multiple PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in his group. His HETEROMERGE startup project demonstrates successful technology transfer from academic research to commercial application, offering hardware solutions that enable multi-material 3D printing at highest resolution with 10 nm placement accuracy. The group maintains active collaborations with institutions including Paul Scherrer Institute in Switzerland and participates in multiple research consortia focused on advanced micro- and nanofabrication techniques. The Mesoscopic 3D Systems Group operates within the Center for Advancing Electronics Dresden (cfaed), one of Germany's Clusters of Excellence. The group maintains state-of-the-art facilities for micro- and nanofabrication and collaborates closely with the HETEROMERGE startup team. Their research environment fosters innovation in 3D fabrication technologies, with particular emphasis on overcoming current limitations in multi-material integration, resolution, and printing speed for applications in micro-optics, integrated photonics, and MEMS/NEMS devices.
Kenneth Brown is the John H. and Jeanne M. Jacobson Professor of Chemistry at Hope College, where he has worked since 1999. His research bridges electroanalytical chemistry and ethnobotanical studies, with a focus on chemically modified electrodes and plant-derived medicinal compounds. Ph.D., Chemistry, Oklahoma State University (1999) B.S., Chemistry, Oral Roberts University (1993) Dr. Brown's electroanalytical work involves electropolymerization of conducting polymers like fluorinated EDOT and Ru(II)-tris(5-amino-1,10-phenanthroline) for sensing applications in metals and biologically important molecules. His ethnobotanical research examines chemical profiles of Apios species for food and medicinal uses, particularly genistein content via HPLC and LC-MS. Current research trends in the Brown Group emphasize polymer film characterization, charge transfer mechanisms, and analytical techniques for studying plant chemistry. Collaborative work with Professor Elizabeth Sanford expands applications in sensor development. Scientific awards include multiple NSF grants for undergraduate research (2004–2016), Howard Hughes Medical Institute grants, and institutional teaching accolades. His lab employs electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and ion beam techniques. Dr. Brown actively mentors students and maintains a living repository of Apios species for genomic and chemical analysis. He has held positions as assistant and associate professor of chemistry at Hope College.
Chris Zorman is an Interim Dean and F. Alex Nason Professor at the Case School of Engineering , Case Western Reserve University . His research focuses on novel materials and processing techniques for micro- and nanoelectromechanical systems (MEMS/NEMS) , with applications in harsh environments , medical microsystems , and flexible/stretchable electronics . He has contributed to advancements in silicon carbide diaphragms , plasma-activated inks , and biomedical sensors . PhD in Physics, Case Western Reserve University (1994) MS in Physics, Case Western Reserve University (1991) Bachelor of Arts in Economics and BS in Physics, The Ohio State University (1988) His teaching interests include solid-state device physics , linear circuits , nanotechnology , and wearable electronics . He has authored over 150 publications and holds multiple patents in silicon carbide films , surface stimulation devices , and flexible sensor packaging . Notable awards include the CSE Esprit de Corps Award (2018) , CSE Fellow (2017) , and AVS Faculty Research Award (2013) . Prof. Zorman leads a multidisciplinary lab at Nord Hall 500A, integrating plasma processing , nanofabrication , and biomedical applications . His team has developed inkjet-printed electrochemical sensors , nanocrystalline diamond diaphragms , and microporous membranes for endotoxin removal .
