Sebastian Krüger is a Research Fellow and Group Leader of the "Molecular Beam Epitaxy" group at the University of Würzburg's Chair of Technical Physics. His research focuses on nanoscale material properties in III-V semiconductor systems, including quantum dots (QDs) as single-photon sources, quantum wells (QWs), and resonant tunneling diodes. He leads projects involving molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) growth and advanced characterization techniques such as photoluminescence (PL), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Affiliation: Lehrstuhl für Technische Physik, Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany Office: P1 Building, Room EG 07 Contact: +49 931 31-86322 | Email Research emphasizes optoelectronic and photonic applications, with particular attention to telecom window compatibility and 2D material stacking. Available projects span QD growth, microcavity integration, and semiconductor-organic hybrid systems. Bachelor’s and Master’s thesis opportunities are abundant in MBE growth optimization and material characterization. Laboratory facilities include dedicated MBE systems for arsenides, phosphides, and antimonides, supported by state-of-the-art analytical tools. Collaborations include the Cluster of Excellence ctd.qmat and EU/DFG-funded initiatives in quantum technology and nanophotonics.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekir Yılmaz Pekmezci is an Associate Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University. His work focuses on structural engineering and materials science, particularly in composite materials, concrete technology, and mechanical properties of construction materials. Education: PhD in Structural Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (2002–2006) MSc in Structural Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (1998–2000) BSc in Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (1994–1998) Research Interests: Mechanical and thermal properties of cement-based composites Phase change materials in construction Non-destructive testing methods Sustainable construction materials Textile-reinforced mortars Recent Research Trends: His publications emphasize optimization of composite materials, durability assessment, and innovative applications of recycled materials. Key topics include phase change materials, carbon-fabric reinforcement, and plastic waste utilization in concrete. Grants & Projects: Thermal and Mechanical Properties of High Performance Cement Composites Containing PCM (2016–2021) Use of Polymer Based Nonwoven Textiles as Reinforcement in Concrete (2011–2020) Advising: Supervised 15+ theses on topics ranging from cementitious composites to historic structure analysis.
Nian X. Sun is the COE Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Bioengineering at Northeastern University, directing the W.M. Keck Laboratory for Integrated Ferroics. He holds affiliations in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and leads the Advanced Materials and Microsystems Laboratory. With a PhD from Stanford University, his career includes roles at IBM and Hitachi Global Storage Technologies. Recognized as an IEEE Fellow, APS Fellow, and NAI Fellow, his research focuses on magnetic materials, multiferroic microsystems, and biomedical sensors for disease detection (e.g., Alzheimer’s, diabetes). He has authored over 280 publications, secured 30+ patents, and pioneered technologies like magnetoelectric antennas and gas sensors. Key honors include the Humboldt Research Award (2019), NSF CAREER Award (2008), and Søren Buus Outstanding Research Award (2012). Education: PhD in Engineering, Stanford University, 2002 Research Focus: His work integrates magnetic, ferroelectric, and multiferroic materials into advanced systems for sensing, energy harvesting, and biomedical diagnostics. Current projects include magnetoelectric antennas for neural activity mapping, wearable sensors for pathogen detection, and high-efficiency power electronics. His lab develops ultra-sensitive gas sensors detecting biomarkers in exhaled breath for rapid disease diagnosis. Key Projects: NSF Center for Pandemic Insights (Co-PI) W.M. Keck Foundation Award-funded neural probes National Science Foundation grants for energy-efficient power systems Awards & Recognition: 2024 NAI Fellow 2024 APS Fellow 2020 Outstanding Translational Research Award Over 180 invited talks/seminars worldwide Labs & Teams: Directs the W.M. Keck Laboratory for Integrated Ferroics and Advanced Materials and Microsystems Laboratory , collaborating on NSF-funded ERCs and industry partnerships. His team includes PhD advisees like Bin Luo (AVS award winner) and Mukki Gill (neural implant developer).
Gabriel Aeppli is a leading physicist affiliated with the Paul Scherrer Institute as founding Head of the Photon Science Division since 2018. He is also a Professor of Physics at both ETH Zürich and EPF Lausanne , with prior leadership roles at the London Centre for Nanotechnology (2002-2014) and NEC Research Institute (1996-2002). Educational Background : BSc in Mathematics and Electrical Engineering (MIT) MSc and PhD in Electrical Engineering (MIT) His research spans photon science , nanotechnology , and quantum information systems , with recent work focusing on non-destructive imaging of integrated circuits , quantum atom traps in silicon , and synthetic biology applications like lasing viruses for digital medicine. He has pioneered the use of synchrotrons, free-electron lasers, and accelerators for studying condensed matter systems. Key trends in his publications include quantum computing materials , THz spectroscopy , and 3D imaging techniques for advanced electronics. His work bridges fundamental physics and commercial applications through initiatives like the London Centre for Nanotechnology and Bio-Nano Consulting . Scientific Awards : Co-recipient, Ugo Fano Medal (2019) ERC Synergy Award (2018) Fellow of Royal Society (2010) Oliver Buckley Prize (2005) Neel Medal/Magnetism Prize (2003) Aeppli has advised numerous research teams and contributed to major grants through his leadership roles. He currently oversees the Swiss Light Source synchrotron and SwissFEL , one of the world's five hard X-ray free-electron lasers.
Armin Knoll is a Research Staff Member at IBM Research Europe - Zurich, Switzerland, where he has been working since 2006. He specializes in nanofabrication and thermal scanning probe lithography, with significant contributions to the development of probe-based data storage technologies, including the well-known 'Millipede' project and subsequent 3D nanofabrication using heatable probes. Dr. Knoll earned his Diplom degree in Physics from the University of Würzburg, Germany, in 1998, followed by a PhD summa cum laude from the University of Bayreuth, Germany, in 2004. His doctoral thesis focused on 'Equilibrium and Dynamic Phase Behavior in Thin Films of Cylinder Forming Block Copolymers' under the supervision of Professor G. Krausch. Armin Knoll's research primarily centers around nanofabrication techniques, particularly thermal scanning probe lithography (t-SPL). His work spans multiple disciplines including nanotechnology, materials science, and molecular systems. He has made significant contributions to probe-based data storage , 3D nanofabrication , and more recently, chemical computing systems. His research often involves the precise manipulation of materials at the nanoscale, with applications ranging from data storage to molecular computing. Analysis of Dr. Knoll's recent publications reveals a strong focus on advancing thermal scanning probe lithography techniques while expanding into chemical computing and nanofluidic systems. His work shows a clear progression from fundamental nanofabrication methods toward more complex systems that integrate biological components and chemical reaction networks. The interdisciplinary nature of his research bridges physics, chemistry, materials science, and engineering, with increasing emphasis on creating functional nanoscale systems for information processing. European Research Council (ERC) award for project entitled 'Topographically guided placement of asymmetric nano-objects' (2012) Best Paper Award in 2010 of the IBM materials research community (MRC) (2011) IBM Research Division Accomplishment 2010 for 'Probe-based Nanopatterning' (2010) Research Division Award for 'Probe-based Nanopatterning' (2010) IBM Research Division Accomplishment 2009 for 'Designing Polymers to Enable Nanoscale Thermo-Mechanical Data Storage' (2009) Dr. Knoll has been actively involved in mentoring and collaborative research, supervising two postdoctoral students and a PhD student since 2007. His work has received significant external recognition and funding, including the prestigious ERC award in 2012. He has collaborated extensively with external industry partners, particularly in the development of the 'Millipede' project for probe-based data storage. His research has also attracted attention from major scientific journals, with publications in Science, Advanced Materials, and other high-impact venues. At IBM Research Europe - Zurich, Dr. Knoll co-leads the '3D nanofabrication using heatable probes' project, building on expertise from the earlier 'Millipede' project. He works closely with collaborators including Heiko Wolf and Robert Lovchik, developing advanced nanofabrication techniques with applications across semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and hybrid cloud technologies. His current research directions include chemical computing systems that use complex chemical networks as information-processing units.
Dr. Lane Baker is a Professor and Department Head in the Department of Chemistry at Texas A&M University, holding the Carl D. McAfee '90 Endowed Chair in Analytical Chemistry. His research focuses on electrochemical measurement and instrumentation at nanoscale interfaces, including Scanning Ion Conductance Microscopy (SICM), single-entity electrochemistry, and bioelectrochemistry. He leads a dynamic research group (bakergrp) developing tools for high-throughput analysis and electrochemical imaging. Research Interests: Electrochemical imaging, nanoelectrochemistry, ion transport at biological interfaces, catalytic nanoparticles, and applications of machine learning in data interpretation. Key techniques include SICM, SECCM, and electrospray ionization. Recent articles highlight advancements in single-entity electrocatalysis, high-throughput electrochemical systems, and biomedical applications like 3D blood-brain barrier models. Collaborations span nanomaterial synthesis, electrochemical energy storage, and bioanalytical instrumentation. Scientific Awards: AAAS Fellow (2023), SEAC Reilley Award (2023), NSF CCI Center Grant (2023) Advising: 30+ PhD graduates, current advisees include Cody Leasor, Yunong Wang, Kristen Alanis, and Sasha Alden Labs/Teams: Baker Research Group, affiliated with Texas A&M's NSF Center for Single-Entity Nanochemistry
Dr. Yuen Yong is an Associate Professor at the University of Newcastle's School of Electrical Engineering and Computing. She specializes in nanosystems and mechatronics, with a focus on nanopositioning systems, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and soft robotics. Her research aims to enhance the precision, accuracy, and speed of AFM and has led to groundbreaking innovations like high-speed nanopositioners and video-rate imaging techniques. Dr. Yong holds a PhD and Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) from the University of Adelaide. She has received prestigious awards, including the Vice-Chancellor's Award for Research Excellence (2014) and Pro Vice-Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Research Performance. Her work spans collaborations with global industry partners like Breville Australia and Nearfield Instruments. Her research interests include nanopositioning systems, piezoelectric actuators, MEMS devices, and control engineering. Notable contributions include the development of novel AFM scan patterns and high-throughput nanopositioning devices. Dr. Yong has authored over 100 journal papers, patents, and book chapters, with her work cited over 3,000 times. As an educator, she coordinates courses like ENGG2440 (Modeling and Control) and MECH4410 (Mechanics of Solids 2 and FEA). She supervises students in advanced mechatronics and has guided award-winning researchers. Her labs focus on dynamic systems and control, contributing to advancements in nanotechnology and robotics.
Roles & Affiliations: Demie Kepaptsoglou is a Senior Lecturer in Physics at the University of York, Deputy Director of the SuperSTEM facility, and a Staff Scientist at the EPSRC National Facility for Advanced Electron Microscopy. She holds an affiliation with the School of Physics, Engineering and Technology. Previously, she served as a Staff Scientist at the University of Manchester’s School of Materials and a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Oslo’s Institute of Physics. Education: MScEng in Mining & Metallurgy Engineering (National Technical University of Athens, Greece, 2001) PhD in Materials Science (National Technical University of Athens, Greece, 2007) Research Interests: Her work focuses on advanced electron microscopy and spectroscopy techniques, applied to nanomaterials, thermoelectrics, topological insulators, and functional oxides. Key areas include defect analysis, interface studies, and the development of vibrational/magnon spectroscopy in electron microscopes. She explores applications in graphene, 2D materials, and spin-to-charge conversion systems. Grants & Collaborations: Leads projects such as 'New Horizons 2020' (magnon interfaces) and collaborates with institutions globally. Co-supervises PhD students Connor Murrill and Fayzah Talbi. Awards: European Microscopy Society Outstanding Paper Award (2020) Labs & Facilities: Based at the SuperSTEM facility (STFC Daresbury) and contributes to the York Nanocentre.
Deepak Uttamchandani is a Visiting Professor in the Electronic and Electrical Engineering department at the University of Strathclyde. His research focuses on Optical MEMS, optofluidics, and advanced microscopy technologies. He has contributed to projects like miniaturized light-sheet microscopes and MEMS-based sensors, collaborating with institutions like the EPSRC and MRC. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in health and innovation. Research Interests: Optical MEMS, MEMS microphones, fiber optic sensors, and opto-electronic instrumentation. Notable contributions include 3D-printed optical components for microscopy and MEMS-controlled lasers. Awards include the 2017 IEEE Sensors Council Technical Achievement Award and the 2024 IEEE Joseph F. Keithley Award. He has supervised 6 doctoral students and led 16 projects, including Fast-tracking Health Innovation for NHS Scotland. Activities include committee memberships and PhD examinations. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches in photonics and biomedical engineering.
Jochen Bruckbauer is a Research Fellow in the Department of Physics at the University of Strathclyde, affiliated with the Semiconductor Spectroscopy & Devices Group. He holds a PhD from the University of Strathclyde (2013) and a Diplom (Master of Science equivalent) from the Technical University of Munich. His research focuses on optical characterization of III-nitride semiconductors, particularly their applications in solid-state lighting and optoelectronic devices. Key techniques include cathodoluminescence hyperspectral imaging and electron channelling contrast imaging. He collaborates with the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry on hybrid organic/inorganic LEDs. Research Interests: Optical spectroscopy, electron microscopy of semiconductors, III-nitride nanostructures, dislocation analysis, and LED development. Techniques employed include CL hyperspectral imaging, photoluminescence, and EBSD. Professional Activities: Invited speaker at RMS EBSD meetings (2025), XVIIIth International Conference on Electron Microscopy (2024), and MRS Fall Meeting (2023). Active in grant-funded projects, including the IAA Proof of Concept for semiconductor device measurement (2024–2026) and EPSRC-funded initiatives. Awards: Outstanding Poster Award (ICNS13, 2019), Fred Stern Memorial Prize (2014), and Best Poster Award (Strathclyde Research Day, 2011). Labs/Teams: Leads projects on semiconductor characterization and collaborates across disciplines, leveraging advanced microscopy facilities. His work contributes to sustainable lighting solutions aligned with UN SDGs.
Dr Llinos Harris is a Senior Lecturer in Microbiology and Infectious Diseases at the Swansea University Medical School within the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences. She specializes in microbial pathogenesis and antibiotic resistance, particularly focusing on staphylococcal biofilm formation and its role in medical device-associated and nosocomial infections. Her academic career began with an MSc from Aberystwyth University (optimizing backscattered electron imaging) and a PhD from the University of Sheffield (molecular analysis of Staphylococcus aureus adhesins) in collaboration with the AO Research Institute, Davos, Switzerland. Research Focus: Biofilm formation in medical device infections, host-pathogen interactions, and antimicrobial resistance Teaching: Module lead for PM-004 Fundamentals of Microbiology & Disease and PM-120/PM-120C Skills for Geneticists I Key Awards: Fellow of the Higher Education Academy Her recent studies analyze biofilm regulation mechanisms in Staphylococcus epidermidis and develop novel anti-microbial biomaterials. She actively supervises MSc and PhD students and serves on academic quality committees at Swansea University.
Song Pang is a researcher at Yale School of Medicine , directing the FIB-SEM Collaboration Core (F-SCC) . Her work focuses on advancing enhanced Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (eFIB-SEM) technology for high-resolution imaging in translational and clinical research. Research Interests Pang specializes in: Subcellular Architecture: Mapping organelle organization and interactions in health and disease states Connectomics: Developing 3D atlases for neuronal circuits and sensory systems Biomedical Imaging: Innovating volume electron microscopy techniques for cellular and tissue analysis Metabolic Disease: Investigating hepatic ER-mitochondria dynamics in obesity and fasting Scientific Contributions Her research has produced landmark publications in Nature , Cell , and Science , including: The first open-access 3D atlas using eFIB-SEM Breakthroughs in mechanosensory receptor architecture Novel insights into cilia-mediated neural signaling Advancements in photomask inspection and semiconductor integration
Prof. Matthias Bode is a Professor and Chair of Experimental Physics II at the University of Würzburg. His research focuses on nanomagnetism, topological materials, and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). He holds a Physics Diploma from the Free University of Berlin (1993), a PhD from the University of Hamburg (1996), and a Habilitation in experimental physics (2003). He leads a research group investigating surface physics, magnetic materials, and quantum phenomena. Key achievements include the Philip Morris Research Award (2003) and IEEE Magnetic Society Distinguished Lecturer (2007). His work spans atomic-scale magnetism, topological insulators, and electronic properties of surfaces. Recent studies explore spin-dependent transport, chiral symmetry, and novel material functionalization. The group collaborates internationally and operates advanced STM facilities (e.g., LT-STM/AFM instrumentation). Research interests include: nanoscale magnetic systems, topological crystalline insulators, STM-based spectroscopy, and surface-engineered materials. His lab investigates phenomena like Yu-Shiba-Rusinov states, spin spirals, and Dirac point manipulation. Group members include Dr. Artem Odobesko and Dr. Xiaochun Huang, with former advisees such as Sameran Banerjee and Yannick Noettger. Education: Physics Diploma (1993): Free University of Berlin PhD in Physics (1996): University of Hamburg Habilitation in Experimental Physics (2003): University of Hamburg Awards: Prize of the Physics Department (1996) Philip Morris Research Award (2003) IEEE Magnetic Society Distinguished Lecturer (2007) Recent publications highlight advancements in STM instrumentation, magnetic domain control, and topological phase engineering. His work bridges fundamental physics with technological applications in nanoelectronics and quantum devices.
Eeva Niemi is a University Lecturer in Physics at Tampere University of Technology. Her research focuses on scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), computational materials physics, and surface science. She holds a Doctor of Science (Technology) from the Department of Science and Engineering (2006) and a Master of Science (Technology) from the same department (2002). Education: Doctor of Science (Technology), Science and Engineering, 2006 Master of Science (Technology), Science and Engineering, 2002 Research Interests: STM-based imaging, computational modeling of tunneling phenomena, molecular surface interactions, and electronic structure analysis. Her work emphasizes submolecular resolution and quantum tunneling effects in nanoscale systems. Activities: Presented at conferences on STM imaging (e.g., interference effects in CO clusters in 2004 and vacancy formation in MoS2 nanoclusters in 2010). Labs/Teams: Collaborates with groups studying surface physics and nanomaterials, including work on substituted benzene molecules and Cu(111) surface chemistry.
Professor Zengbo (James) Wang is a faculty member at Bangor University’s School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, leading research in photonics, AI-driven imaging, and laser manufacturing. His work integrates artificial intelligence with optics to advance super-resolution imaging and nanoscale fabrication, supported by a Leverhulme Trust Research Fellowship. He is renowned for pioneering superlens technologies, including the spider silk superlens and nanoparticle superlens, featured in global media and RCUK’s '50 Big Ideas for the Future'. Research areas include AI in photonics design, super-resolution microscopy, laser-based manufacturing (e.g., nano-patterning, anti-counterfeiting marking), optical fiber sensors, and metamaterial filters. Collaborations with industries like Qioptiq and TataSteel leverage his team’s expertise in cutting-edge photonics solutions. Key achievements include the 2016 Research Excellence Award finalist status and the 2015 Welsh Crucible fellowship. Professor Wang’s lab houses advanced tools such as femtosecond lasers, 3D laser scanning microscopes, and environmental SEM with EBL. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals through projects like the Centre for Photonics Expertise (CPE), enhancing Welsh industry innovation. Recent projects focus on AI-enhanced superlenses, anti-counterfeiting laser marking, and ozone impact studies on tree seed germination. Awards include the 2022 Leverhulme Fellowship, 2016 Thesis Supervisor of the Year nomination, and the 2005 Singapore R&D Merit Award. His research has produced over 70 peer-reviewed publications and numerous patents, with a focus on translating scientific breakthroughs into industrial applications.
