Timothee Pourpoint is a Professor in the School of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Purdue University. His research focuses on rocket propulsion systems, including hybrid rockets, hypergolic fuels, and combustion instability analysis. He is affiliated with the Purdue Altitude Chamber Facility, contributing to propulsion testing and diagnostics, and collaborates with Purdue's Mechanical Engineering department. Research Interests: Rocket propulsion and hybrid rocket engine design Hypergolic fuel characterization and ignition mechanisms Combustion instability diagnostics Advanced propulsion testing facilities Key Contributions: Development of dual-mode propulsion systems, characterization of mixed oxides of nitrogen, and 3D-printed catalyst bed technologies. Email: timothee@purdue.edu
Firat Bolat is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Marine Engineering at Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Maritime. His research focuses on maritime safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental sustainability in shipping operations. His research interests include Port State Control, Paris Memorandum of Understanding, human error probability in maritime operations, energy efficiency design index (EEDI), CO₂ emission reduction, and risk assessment in maritime transport. These themes are central to improving safety, compliance, and environmental performance in the global shipping industry. The recent publications show a consistent focus on data-driven analysis of maritime regulations, human factors in cargo operations, and environmental performance of ships. His work bridges engineering solutions with policy evaluation, particularly in the context of Turkish-flagged vessels and international maritime standards. Sasakawa Fellowship (2016) Firat Bolat has been involved in advising graduate students, with two theses currently in progress under his supervision. His research is supported by active participation in interdisciplinary projects such as the MAR-LSD initiative, which aims to transform maritime education through innovative learning station design. He has contributed to studies analyzing port state control detentions, cybersecurity in navigation systems, and emission trends in shipping. He is part of a research team working on maritime safety and training innovations, collaborating on projects that integrate engineering analysis with educational transformation and regulatory assessment. His work contributes to both academic knowledge and practical improvements in maritime operations and policy.
Robert Deters is an Associate Professor in the School of Engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide, within the College of Aviation. He has served as Program Chair for the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology since 2015 and teaches a wide range of engineering courses, from introductory to senior design levels. His work extends to leading the technical aspects of the Real World Design Challenge, an international aeronautical engineering competition for high school students. Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign M.S. in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, West Virginia University B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, West Virginia University Dr. Deters' research centers on applied aerodynamics, particularly the aerodynamics and design of small unmanned aircraft systems. His expertise includes wind tunnel testing, propeller performance analysis, propulsion systems for UAVs, and aeroacoustics. He investigates experimental methods for optimizing propeller efficiency, high-lift propulsion integration, and empirical modeling of aircraft subsystems. His recent publications (2023–2025) reflect a strong focus on experimental and applied research in UAV propulsion, propeller aerodynamics, and engineering education. These works appear in prominent AIAA forums and ASEE conferences, indicating active engagement in both technical and pedagogical communities. The research trend emphasizes practical solutions for small-scale aircraft design and performance validation. Dr. Deters has received notable recognition for his contributions: 2018-2019 Research of the Year: College of Aeronautics 2018 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide Latitude Award - Models of Growth (awarded to his department) He advises undergraduate research initiatives and leads curriculum development efforts, particularly in online engineering education. His grants and awards support innovation in teaching and research infrastructure. Dr. Deters is also an active member of key professional organizations, including the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE), reflecting sustained professional engagement. He leads research activities related to UAV testing and propulsion system development, likely involving student teams and collaborative projects, especially through his role in the Real World Design Challenge and online undergraduate research workshops.
Javier Salueña Berna is a lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Escola Superior d'Enginyeries Industrial, Aeroespacial i Audiovisual de Terrassa (ESEIAAT), part of the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC). His work spans both academic teaching and applied research with a strong focus on sustainable technologies, particularly in the areas of hydrogen energy and waste valorization. University: Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya School: Escola Superior d'Enginyeries Industrial, Aeroespacial i Audiovisual de Terrassa Department: Department of Mechanical Engineering Email: xavier.salueña@upc.edu ORCID: 0000-0003-0120-7057 His research interests include hydrogen energy, green hydrogen production, aluminum recycling, acoustic engineering, and polymer composites. He has published extensively on the use of waste aluminum for hydrogen generation and the mechanical and dielectric properties of polymer composites reinforced with recycled tire rubber. The recent scholarly output of Javier Salueña Berna shows a clear trend toward sustainable energy solutions. His most recent publications focus on green hydrogen production using waste aluminum, with applications in electric bicycles and low-power mobile machines. Earlier works explore noise control, acoustic diagnostics, and sustainable manufacturing processes. His research bridges mechanical engineering with environmental sustainability, emphasizing circular economy principles through material recycling and energy recovery. Premi a la Creativitat Premi de creativitat per a joves XVII Forum d’Inversió XVII Forum d'inversió ACC1O Concurs Idea "La revolució de cotxe elèctric" Ecotendencies. CosmoCaixa Salueña has led numerous non-competitive R&D projects focused on applied training, sustainable technology development, and industrial collaboration. His work includes advising on accident reconstruction, developing scientific and computational support, and promoting the practical application of technological knowledge in society. He has collaborated with various research groups such as TECNOFAB and CATMech, contributing to projects in manufacturing, energy systems, and materials engineering. He is actively involved in research groups including TECNOFAB (Research Group in Manufacturing Technologies), CATMech (Advanced Mechanical Technologies Center), and LEAM (Acoustic and Mechanical Engineering Laboratory), where his work integrates mechanical design, energy systems, and sustainable materials.
Sergio Pirozzoli is a Full Professor at the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering , Sapienza University of Rome. His research focuses on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) , Turbulence , High-Performance Computing , and Supersonic/Hypersonic Flow modeling. He specializes in developing advanced numerical solvers for compressible and turbulent flows, with applications to aerospace, thermal engineering, and environmental systems.
Ankit Sharma is a Research Fellow in Multi-Fidelity Aircraft Design Optimization at the Centre for Aeronautics, Cranfield University. With over 7 years of combined experience across industrial and academic settings, he specializes in aircraft design, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), finite element analysis (FEA), and multi-fidelity aerodynamic and structural modeling. Dr. Sharma's research focuses on several cutting-edge areas in aerospace engineering, including electric Vertical Take-Off & Landing (eVTOL) aircraft design and multidisciplinary optimization, multi-fidelity surrogate modeling techniques, and AI/data-driven strategies for early-phase aircraft design. His professional background spans concept-to-prototype development, with particular emphasis on CFD-based preliminary design of novel aircraft configurations. Analysis of Dr. Sharma's recent publication record reveals a strong technical focus on propeller and rotorcraft aerodynamics, aeroacoustics, and multi-fidelity modeling approaches. His work demonstrates expertise in applying computational methods across different fidelity levels to address complex aerospace challenges, particularly in noise prediction and optimization. A notable trend in his 2025 publications shows increasing integration of machine learning techniques with traditional aerospace engineering methods, exemplified by his PropAI framework for propeller design optimization. Dr. Sharma is currently engaged in tool development for the Airbus ONEheart project, creating agile, low-emissions conceptual design frameworks. His collaborative work extends to multiple international research teams, as evidenced by his co-authorship with researchers from various institutions on projects related to open rotor aircraft, supersonic airliner design, and uncertainty propagation in conceptual design.
Brian Perrino serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Physiology and Cell Biology at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, where his research bridges molecular signaling and physiological function in gastrointestinal and urinary systems. Education: B.S. in Biology from Syracuse University Ph.D. from Boston University Post-Doctoral training at the Vollum Institute His research program centers on signaling pathways regulating cellular responses , with groundbreaking work on Mfge8-mediated regulation of stomach emptying . By inhibiting Rho kinase, Mfge8 increases myosin phosphatase activity and decreases gastric muscle contractions, optimizing nutrient absorption. This mechanism extends to diabetic gastroparesis and obesity-related gastric dysfunction , while parallel investigations explore PDGFRα+ cells in bladder pathophysiology and interstitial cells of Cajal in gut motility . Analysis of his 2020-2025 publications reveals consistent focus on smooth muscle contractility mechanisms across organ systems, with innovative approaches including spatial gene mapping, transcriptomic profiling, and functional assays in murine/non-human primate models. His work identifies critical pathways in bladder fibrosis, gastric emptying regulation, and neurogenic bladder dysfunction. Dr. Perrino has not listed any scientific awards in the provided materials. While specific advising details are unavailable, his extensive publication record suggests active mentorship in smooth muscle research. His work is institutionally supported through the Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, with potential external funding indicated by sustained research output. His laboratory integrates molecular characterization , functional physiology , and translational approaches to investigate smooth muscle signaling in gastrointestinal and urinary systems, maintaining strong emphasis on pathological conditions like diabetic complications and bladder inflammation.
MUSTAFA VARKİ is a Researcher at Gaziantep University's Faculty of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering, contributing to academic and experimental work in aerospace disciplines. MSc in Aeronautical and Aeronautical Engineering (2020-2023) BSc in Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering (2014-2019) Pursuing Doctorate in Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering His research focuses on VTOL design , UAV wing reinforcement , and propeller aerodynamics , with recent publications in international journals and conferences. Experiments like AE204 LAB-1 to LAB-10 demonstrate his hands-on role in laboratory instruction, emphasizing practical applications in aerospace engineering. Publications span materials science, mechanical engineering, and flight dynamics, showcasing interdisciplinary work with composite materials (carbon/epoxy, EPP foam) and aerodynamic optimization. His keywords include Aeronautics , Composite Materials , and Flight Mechanics .
Olivier Petit is a researcher at the Department of Thermo and Fluid Dynamics at Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden. His work focuses on aerodynamics , propulsion systems , and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) , with emphasis on turbofan engines, open rotor designs, and boundary layer ingestion technologies.
Anders Lundbladh serves as an Adjunct Professor at Chalmers University of Technology's Mechanics and Maritime Sciences department. His academic appointment reflects his significant contributions to aerospace engineering research, particularly in the field of sustainable propulsion systems. Lundbladh maintains an active research profile with recent publications spanning multiple aspects of aircraft engine design and alternative propulsion technologies. Professor Lundbladh's research focuses on the critical challenges facing modern aviation, with particular emphasis on sustainable propulsion solutions. His work spans several key areas including hydrogen-fueled aircraft systems, advanced heat exchanger design for aero engines, and innovative propeller configurations for electric aircraft. His research portfolio demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing the aviation industry's decarbonization challenges through technological innovation. The recurring themes in his work include thermal management systems for alternative fuel aircraft, aerodynamic optimization of propulsion components, and integration challenges for next-generation aircraft configurations. Analysis of Lundbladh's recent publication record reveals a clear focus on sustainable aviation technologies, particularly hydrogen propulsion systems. Approximately 40% of his recent work centers on hydrogen-fueled aircraft design and integration challenges, while another 30% addresses advanced heat transfer solutions for next-generation engines. The remaining publications focus on propeller and nacelle design optimization for both conventional and electric propulsion systems, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to sustainable aviation research. His work consistently addresses the technical challenges associated with reducing aviation's environmental impact while maintaining performance requirements. Lundbladh has participated in significant research projects including IMOTHEP (Investigation and Maturation of Technologies for Hybrid Electric Propulsion), a European Commission-funded initiative from 2020-2023. His collaborative approach is evident in his publication record, which shows extensive partnerships with colleagues at Chalmers and international institutions. While specific grant amounts aren't detailed in the available information, his involvement in EU-funded projects indicates substantial research support. His work frequently appears in leading aerospace journals including Journal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power, Aerospace Science and Technology, and Applied Thermal Engineering.
J.F.J. Pruyn is a researcher at Delft University of Technology , specializing in Ship Design, Production and Operations . His work bridges marine engineering with optimization techniques, focusing on energy systems and sustainable shipping solutions. Key Research Areas : Ship design, methanol power systems, energy transition, climate scenario modeling, and resource-constrained project scheduling. His recent projects include PATH2ZERO (zero-emission inland shipping) and READINESS (robust ship designs for uncertain transitions). He has contributed datasets to open science platforms and participated in conferences and workshops on environmental policy and maritime engineering.
Dr. Bianca Capra is a Senior Lecturer at Queensland University of Technology's Faculty of Engineering, specializing in scramjet propulsion , hypersonic aerodynamics , and natural ventilation in buildings . Her research bridges aerospace engineering and sustainable architectural design through advanced School of Mechanical, Medical & Process Engineering collaborations. Research Focus: Hypersonic flow modeling, combustion enhancement, building energy optimization Key Collaborators: Professor Russell Boyce, Associate Professor Veronica Garcia Hansen, Dr. Robin Drogemuller Methodologies: Computational fluid dynamics, experimental validation, thermal comfort analysis Her publications demonstrate expertise in porous fuel injection systems , oxygen enrichment applications , and natural ventilation heuristics for high-rise structures. Notable works include SCRAMSPACE project contributions and radical-farming scramjet combustion studies . While no formal awards are documented, her 15+ peer-reviewed publications since 2005 establish significant academic impact.
Lorenzo Casalino is Full Professor of Aerospace Propulsion at the Polytechnic University of Turin , based in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (DIMEAS) and the College of Mechanical, Aerospace and Automotive Engineering . Since 2021 he has served as the contact person for the entire Aerospace Engineering degree programme and has taught across every level from first-cycle propulsion fundamentals to doctoral courses on trajectory optimisation. Research Focus: Aerospace propulsion systems, with emphasis on hybrid rocket engines Space trajectory optimisation using classical and AI-based methods Multiphysics modeling of combustion instability Reinforcement learning for autonomous mission planning His recent publications demonstrate a clear trend toward integrating machine-learning techniques —especially neural networks and reinforcement learning—into traditional astrodynamics problems such as low-Earth-orbit transfers and autonomous phasing maneuvers, while continuing cutting-edge experimental and numerical work on paraffin-fuelled hybrid rockets. Scientific Awards & Recognition AIAA Best Paper Award, Hybrid Rockets Technical Committee — 2006, 2007 Member, Editorial Board, Aerospace (MDPI) since 2020 Member, Editorial Board, Astrodynamics since 2017 Doctoral Supervision & Grants He currently supervises three PhD candidates: Andrea Forestieri (deep learning for trajectory optimisation), Davide Costigliola (analytical manoeuvring strategies for proximity operations), and Alessia De Iuliis (pseudospectral methods for trajectory optimisation). Competitive grants include principal-investigator roles in ASI’s G4S-Galileo for Science 2.0 (2021-2022), the ARGONAUT lunar transfer study (2024), and ANIME Phase A trajectory design (2023-2024). Labs & Teams He leads the Aerospace Propulsion Research Group within DIMEAS, coordinating experimental, numerical and AI-assisted projects that bridge propulsion science and mission analysis.
Claudio Dongiovanni serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Energy (DENERG) at the Polytechnic University of Turin, specializing in Fluid Machinery (IIND-06/A) within Industrial and Information Engineering. His academic appointments include membership in both the College of Mechanical, Aerospace and Automotive Engineering and the College of Electrical and Energy Engineering. His research spans fluid machinery, energy systems, and thermal sciences with particular expertise in internal combustion engines, hydrogen-powered systems, and diesel injection technology. Dongiovanni's work bridges fundamental thermal science with practical automotive and energy applications, focusing on experimental characterization and computational modeling of complex fluid systems. His recent publications reveal a research trajectory emphasizing sustainable energy conversion (TEG devices), medical applications of thermal science (cryoballoon catheters), and advanced characterization of fuel injection systems. This demonstrates his ability to apply core fluid dynamics principles across diverse domains from automotive engineering to biomedical devices. Scientific Manager for H2 ICE hydrogen engine platform (2022-2025) Scientific Manager for Optimization of Injectors for Large Dual-Fuel Diesel Engines (2024-2025) Principal investigator for multiple commercial research projects since 2007 Extensive experience in thermal and hydraulic machine testing and optimization Dongiovanni has supervised doctoral students in the ENERGETICS program from 2003-2010 and currently teaches Energy Systems Lab, Nuclear Engineering Lab, and Fluid Machines courses across Mechanical and Energy Engineering programs. His teaching portfolio demonstrates consistent engagement with experimental methods for energy and propulsion systems.
Marco Fioriti is an Associate Professor at the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (DIMEAS) of the Polytechnic University of Turin . His research focuses on Aircraft Design , On-Board Systems , Hybrid Electric Vehicles , and Transportation Electrification , with particular emphasis on RAMS (Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, Safety) and Cost Estimation for advanced aerospace systems. He has coordinated major research projects including: COLOSSUS (2023-2026): Collaborative System of Systems Exploration of Aviation Products HERA (2023-2026): Hybrid Electric Regional Architecture DIGACE (2023-2025): Digital Innovative Aircraft Certification AGILE4.0 (2019-2022): Collaborative MDAO Frameworks His recent journal contributions and conference proceedings focus on: Machine learning for thermal system diagnostics Life cycle assessment models Electromechanical actuator reliability Automated certification workflows Thermal management for hybrid aircraft He serves on the Scientific Committee of AIAA (since 2023) and has been a Guest Editor for Aerospace (2020-2023). Awards include the ICAS Award for Innovation in Aeronautics (2018) and DLR Hamburg Collaboration Recognition (2019).
