Dr. Nienke Smit is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Education at Utrecht University's Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences. Her research focuses on scaffolding processes, adaptive teaching, and classroom observational research from a complex dynamic systems perspective. Specializes in teacher-student interaction Expert in adaptive instruction and observational methods Collaborates with Data Science department Develops tools for classroom observation Research interests include language learning and teaching , judgment and decision-making in education , and professional development of teachers . She leads projects like Eye Get It (joint attention in classrooms) and a replication study on adaptive instruction effectiveness. Her work applies dynamic systems theory to second language development and foreign language pedagogy. Recent publications address translanguaging in multilingual classrooms, replication studies , and process-oriented research . She teaches at Utrecht's Graduate School of Teaching and works on initiatives to reduce teacher shortages through improved training programs.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hakan Kayal serves as University Professor for Aerospace Engineering at the University of Würzburg, holding the Chair of Computer Science VIII (Space Technology) and chairing the Interdisciplinary Research Center for Extraterrestrial Studies (IFEX). His leadership bridges computer science and space systems engineering within the university's Institute of Computer Science. Research focuses on three synergistic domains: nanosatellite development for extraterrestrial missions (including the SONATE-2 6U platform demonstrating AI-driven onboard processing), scientific investigation of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) through the university's collaboration with the Federal Aviation Office, and spacecraft autonomy systems enabling higher mission independence. Current projects include the NEAlight mission (extended to develop the Apophis Interceptor concept for the 2029 asteroid flyby), VaMEx3-MarsSymphony for Mars exploration, and JMU Space Observatory initiatives. Publication trends reveal strong emphasis on asteroid defense strategies (particularly for Apophis), CubeSat-based UAP detection methodologies, and real-time AI processing in constrained space environments. His team actively engages students through ADS-B tracking, Meteosat App development, and Moon Base 2030 projects, while recent recognition includes co-authoring a landmark UAP review in Progress in Aerospace Sciences with 33 international scientists.
Cathryn Carson is a Professor in the Department of History at the University of California, Berkeley. Her work bridges the philosophical, cultural, and political dimensions of 20th-century science, with a focus on theoretical physics, nuclear history, and the integration of social sciences and humanities into engineering education. Education: AB in History and Philosophy of Science from University of Chicago (1990) AM in Physics from Harvard University (1993) PhD in History of Science from Harvard University (1995) Her research explores the interplay between science and philosophy, particularly in Germany and the U.S., alongside the institutionalization of data science. She teaches graduate and undergraduate courses, including Berkeley’s Data Science major’s Human Contexts and Ethics of Data course. Scientific Awards: Berkeley Collegium Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Education (2017) Distinguished Service Award, Division of Social Sciences (2014) Carol D. Soc Distinguished Graduate Student Mentoring Award (2014) Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow of the American Physical Society Mellon New Directions Fellowship NSF CAREER Award Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Research Fellowship Member, Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton Carson has served in multiple leadership roles, including Associate Dean of Social Sciences, founding Interim Director of the D-Lab (Social Science Data Laboratory), and Faculty Lead of Berkeley’s Data Science Education Program. She is currently accepting students for advising and contributes to campus governance through roles in the Academic Senate.
Mengliang Zhang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Ohio University, College of Arts and Sciences. He leads an interdisciplinary research group focused on mass spectrometry and chemometrics, with applications in forensic, food, agricultural, environmental, and material sciences. His lab develops innovative analytical strategies for detecting toxicants, characterizing nanomaterials, and profiling metabolites in botanicals and food systems. Ph.D., Chemistry, Ohio University, 2015 Dr. Zhang’s research integrates instrumentation, chemometrics, and computational tools to address complex analytical challenges. His group works on forensic fiber and ignitable liquid analysis, plant metabolomics, nanomaterial surface chemistry, and environmental toxicant monitoring. His work is highly interdisciplinary, bridging chemistry, data science, and real-world applications in forensics and public health. His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend in advancing ambient ionization mass spectrometry (especially DART-MS), chemometric modeling, and metabolite profiling across diverse matrices—from fire debris to broccoli microgreens. His work increasingly emphasizes automation, quantitation, and database development for botanical phytochemicals. Scientific honors include the MTSU Distinguished Research Award (Early Career), and his students have received prestigious awards such as the Goldwater Scholarship and multiple URECA recognitions. He is actively supported by federal grants from NSF, USDA, DOE, DOJ (NIJ), and FEMA. Dr. Zhang mentors a vibrant research team of graduate and undergraduate students, guiding them in publishing high-impact research and presenting at national conferences like ASMS, Pittcon, and AAFS. He has organized sessions at SciX and served on editorial boards of Journal of Forensic Sciences and Journal of AOAC INTERNATIONAL . His lab recently relocated to Ohio University in August 2024, equipped with advanced instrumentation including UHPLC-QTOF-MS and DART-MS systems.
James C. Hoe is Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University (College of Engineering). He is on sabbatical at MangoBoost and directs research in computer architecture, reconfigurable computing, and high-level hardware design. Education Ph.D., Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT (2000) M.S., Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT (1994) B.S., Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, UC Berkeley (1992) Research Interests Professor Hoe’s work spans computer architecture , reconfigurable computing , FPGA architectures , and high-level hardware synthesis . His group created the CoRAM abstraction for virtualized FPGA computing and leads efforts in power-efficient accelerators, in-network computing, and security-oriented FPGA systems. Scientific Awards IEEE Fellow (2013) Intel Outstanding Researcher Award (2021) Research Funding & Projects Intel / VMware Crossroads 3D-FPGA Academic Research Center – co-leading exploration of FPGA roles in future datacenters. DARPA BRASS program ($2.7 M, 4 years) – ensuring long-lived software systems remain robust to resource changes. Pigasus open-source IDS – world’s fastest FPGA-accelerated intrusion-detection system (100 Gb/s on one server). Labs & Teams He heads activities within the Computer Architecture Lab at Carnegie Mellon (CALCM) , supervising graduate researchers on CoRAM++, SPIRAL autotuning, and FPGA overlays for stream processing.
Dr. Damien Charrieras is an Associate Professor at the School of Creative Media , City University of Hong Kong, where he serves as Program Leader for the Master of Art in Creative Media and deputy program leader for the PhD in Creative Media. His work bridges cultural studies, new media theory, and the intersection of financial technologies with artistic practices through the ACIM Laboratory for Interventions in Speculative Finance . Doctoral research on digital artists' trajectories in Montreal FRQSC Postdoctoral Fellowship at McGill University Research spans game engine design , datafication of creativity , blockchain in art , and post-anthropocentric creative processes . With over HK$3.14M in grants as Principal Investigator, he explores situated digital creativity in urban contexts, critical worldbuilding pedagogy , and the mediation of technical systems in cultural production. His publications in Cities , Organized Sound , and Human Relations analyze the reconfiguration of artistic practices through software infrastructures and automation paradigms. Scientific awards include: FRQSC Postdoctoral Fellowship
Affiliation & Education Scott Hauck is a Professor at the University of Washington's Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering and an Adjunct Professor in Computer Science & Engineering. He leads the Adaptive Computing Machines and Emulators (ACME) Lab . He earned his BS in EECS from UC Berkeley (1990), and MS/PhD in CSE from the University of Washington (1992/1995). Research Focus Dr. Hauck specializes in FPGA-based reconfigurable computing with applications in: Quantum Computing: FPGA controllers for trapped-ion quantum systems enabling precise laser control and quantum state readout. Medical Imaging: Portable radiation sensors for personalized cancer therapy and PET scanner enhancements. High-Energy Physics: FPGA readout systems for ATLAS pixel detectors at CERN's Large Hadron Collider. AI Acceleration: Real-time machine learning inference for scientific applications via projects like hls4ml. His work bridges hardware innovation with computational physics, emphasizing real-time processing and low-latency systems. Publication Trends Recent research focuses on FPGA-accelerated machine learning for particle physics (e.g., transformer networks for LHC trigger systems) and quantum computing instrumentation. Earlier work established foundations in reconfigurable computing architectures and medical imaging electronics. Awards & Recognition Distinguished Teaching Award, University of Washington (2010) Advising & Funding Leads the ACME Lab with extensive funding from NSF, DARPA, NIH, DOE, and industry partners including Intel, Xilinx, and Microsoft. Mentored over 30 MS/PhD students in VLSI, reconfigurable systems, and scientific computing. Collaborations & Labs Directs the ACME Lab (EE1-307), collaborating with UW Radiology (Prof. Robert Miyaoka), UW Physics (Prof. Shih-Chieh Hsu), and Drexel University (Prof. Josh Agar). Projects include quantum control systems, LHC readout electronics, and medical sensor networks.
Erik Bohlin is a Professor at Western University's Ivey Business School in the Business, Economics and Public Policy department. He holds the Ivey Chair in Telecommunication Economics, Policy and Regulation and serves as Editor-in-Chief of Telecommunications Policy . Currently on leave from Chalmers University of Technology, he combines economic theory with telecommunications policy analysis. PhD in Economics of Technology from Chalmers University of Technology (1995) BA in Business Administration and Economics from Stockholm School of Economics (1987) Masters and Bachelor in Theology from Community Chapel College (1984-1985) His research focuses on telecommunications policy, digitalization's socioeconomic impact, broadband regulation, and technology diplomacy. He examines network effects, market entry strategies, and digital infrastructure's role in economic growth. Recent publications analyze 5G regulation, AI's societal impact, digital technology adoption strategies, and broadband's economic effects. These works span telecommunications economics, policy analysis, and technology's macroeconomic influence. Scientific Affiliation : Member of Swedish Royal Academy of Engineering Past Chair of International Telecommunications Society Teaching activities include developing and instructing graduate courses on Digital Strategy and Policy. The Chair receives funding from Ivey Business School, Bell Canada, and TELUS.
Professor Ernest Foo is a distinguished academic at Griffith University's School of Information and Communication Technology, specializing in cybersecurity with a focus on industrial control systems and cryptographic protocols. With over 15 years of experience in computer networking, he has established himself as a leading expert in SCADA security and smart grid cybersecurity. His research has significant practical applications in critical infrastructure protection, and he has developed hands-on security training programs that have trained professionals from major Australian utilities and government agencies. Professor Foo's educational background includes: Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Electronic and Computer Engineering from University of Queensland Doctor of Philosophy from Queensland University of Technology Professor Foo's research interests center around secure cryptographic protocols with specific applications in industrial control system security and cyber physical systems. His work spans SCADA security, smart grid protection, wireless sensor network security, and post-quantum cryptography. He has made significant contributions to understanding vulnerabilities in industrial protocols like Modbus and DNP3, and has pioneered the application of process mining and data mining techniques for attack detection in critical infrastructure systems. His research bridges theoretical security concepts with practical implementations in real-world industrial environments. Professor Foo's recent publications demonstrate a clear trajectory toward increasingly sophisticated security frameworks for critical infrastructure. His work shows a progression from foundational SCADA security research to advanced applications of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and formal methods in cybersecurity. A notable trend is the integration of zero trust principles with industrial control systems, alongside growing emphasis on post-quantum cryptographic solutions. His publications span high-impact journals and conferences in cybersecurity, with increasing focus on anomaly detection in cyber-physical systems and the application of graph-based machine learning techniques to network security challenges. Professor Foo's notable scientific achievements include: Best paper award at the 2nd International Cyber Resilience Conference for "Gap analysis of Intrusion Detection in Smart Grids" Professor Foo has secured significant research funding including an ARC Linkage grant with Powerlink Queensland focused on cyber security for electricity sub-stations. He currently leads multiple research projects including Westpac Micro-Credentials in Financial Crime Investigation, Digital Banking Micro-credentials with ANZ, and research on quantum-safe cryptography. As a dedicated educator, he serves as Program Director for multiple cybersecurity programs including the Master of Cyber Security, and has supervised numerous doctoral and masters students. His Cyber Security: Industrial Control System course, conducted annually from 2013-2018, featured innovative hands-on training with real-world participants from major Australian utilities. Professor Foo has been instrumental in establishing the SCADA security research laboratory with multiple vendor system miniatures running industrial PLCs. His work bridges theoretical security concepts with practical implementations, making significant contributions to the security of industrial control systems and critical infrastructure worldwide.
Ludo Waltman serves as Scientific Director and Professor of Quantitative Science Studies at the Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS) within Leiden University's Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences. He holds multiple influential positions including Co-chair of the Research on Research Institute (RoRI), President of ASAPbio, and Editor-in-Chief of MetaROR (MetaResearch Open Review). As an Open Science Ambassador for Leiden University, he actively promotes transparency and innovation in scholarly communication. Waltman's research spans Quantitative Science Studies, Bibliometrics, and Metascience, with particular focus on university rankings, preprint ecosystems, open access publishing models, and research evaluation frameworks. His work critically examines the infrastructure of scholarly communication, advocating for more transparent and efficient systems that better serve the research community. He has been instrumental in developing initiatives like the Barcelona Declaration on Open Research Information and advancing publish-then-review models as alternatives to traditional peer review. His recent publications reveal a consistent emphasis on systemic issues in scholarly communication, with particular attention to preprint adoption across Europe, the relationship between assessment reform and publishing reform, and the methodological transparency of university rankings. These works collectively demonstrate his commitment to evidence-based approaches for improving research infrastructure and evaluation practices. Waltman actively engages in advising and shaping research policy through his leadership roles. As Co-chair of RoRI, he helps guide metascience research that examines the research system itself. His work with MetaROR promotes innovative peer review models, while his presidency at ASAPbio advances preprint culture in life sciences. He frequently collaborates with major research funders, publishers, and infrastructure organizations to implement practical reforms in scholarly communication. Through CWTS at Leiden University, Waltman leads a research environment focused on quantitative analysis of science and technology systems. His work connects with broader initiatives like the Research on Research Institute and the Barcelona Declaration movement, creating networks that bridge researchers, funders, and infrastructure providers committed to improving research practices.
Andreas Rietbrock is Professor and Director of the Geophysical Institute (GPI) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) , Germany, where he also serves as Dean of Studies for Geophysics . He is a leading expert in earthquake seismology, seismic tomography, and subduction zone dynamics, with a strong focus on integrating advanced observational techniques and computational methods. Education: While specific degrees are not listed in the provided text, his extensive publication record and leadership roles indicate advanced academic training in geophysics and seismology. Research Interests: His work spans a wide range of topics including: Seismic imaging of subduction zones (e.g., Nazca, Lesser Antilles) Earthquake rupture dynamics and fault mechanics Volcanic seismology and magma transport Full waveform inversion and AI-enhanced seismic analysis Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) applications Induced seismicity and reservoir monitoring Research Trends: His recent publications (2022–2025) emphasize the use of dense seismic arrays, AI-based data processing, and multi-method tomography to study complex tectonic environments. Key themes include high-resolution imaging of slab structures, fluid migration in subduction zones, and the integration of DAS and machine learning for seismic monitoring. Scientific Contributions: Andreas has led major international projects such as the ANTICS Large-N deployment in Albania and the VoiLA project in the Lesser Antilles. He has published extensively in top-tier journals like Nature , Geophysical Research Letters , and Journal of Geophysical Research , with over 200 peer-reviewed articles. Teaching and Supervision: He teaches courses such as "Introduction to Geophysics II", "Seismology", and "Current Topics in Seismology and Risk". While specific student names are not listed, his role as Dean and principal investigator on numerous projects indicates active supervision of graduate students and postdocs. Labs and Teams: He leads the seismology group at GPI, coordinating large-scale deployments of seismic instruments, including ocean-bottom seismometers and fiber-optic DAS systems. His team collaborates globally with institutions in Europe, South America, and Asia.
Roger Luckhurst is Professor of Modern Literature and currently holds the prestigious Geoffrey Tillotson Chair of Nineteenth Century Studies at Birkbeck College, University of London. A leading scholar in Gothic literature, science fiction, and trauma studies, he has been affiliated with Birkbeck for over 25 years, contributing significantly to interdisciplinary literary and cultural studies. Education and Career Trajectory: 2020-present: Geoffrey Tillotson Chair of Nineteenth Century Studies, Birkbeck College 2008-2020: Professor of Modern and Contemporary Literature, Birkbeck College 2004-2008: Senior Lecturer, Birkbeck College 1994-2004: Lecturer, Birkbeck College 1992-1994: Lecturer, University of Hull Research Interests and Scholarly Contributions: Luckhurst's research spans multiple interconnected fields, establishing him as a preeminent voice in literary and cultural studies. His work on late 19th century English literature examines the intersections of Victorian culture with emerging scientific discourses. His expertise in science fiction studies encompasses both literary analysis and cultural theory, exploring how speculative fiction reflects and shapes contemporary anxieties. In Gothic studies , he investigates the persistence of Gothic aesthetics and themes across different media and historical periods. His groundbreaking work in trauma studies has contributed significantly to understanding how literature and culture process collective trauma. Publications and Scholarly Impact: His extensive publication record demonstrates a remarkable breadth of scholarly inquiry. From his early work on J.G. Ballard to his recent comprehensive study of Gothic culture, Luckhurst has consistently produced influential scholarship. His books have been translated into multiple languages including French, Japanese, Turkish, and German, indicating significant international impact. His forthcoming The Gothic: An Illustrated History (2021) promises to be a definitive work in the field. Honors and Awards: 2009: Visiting Research Fellow, University of Birmingham 2009: Visiting Research Fellow, Flemish Academic Centre for Science and the Arts (VLAC), Brussels January-June 2011: AHRC Fellowship, Birkbeck College Spring 2016: Mellon Distinguished Visiting Professor, Department of English, Columbia University, New York Public Engagement and Media Presence: Beyond academia, Luckhurst has demonstrated exceptional commitment to public scholarship. He has served as a broadcaster for BBC radio, bringing literary criticism to wider audiences. His journalism has appeared in leading British newspapers, bridging the gap between academic research and public discourse. This dual role as academic and public intellectual exemplifies Birkbeck's tradition of making scholarship accessible to broader communities. Interdisciplinary Approach and Institutional Contributions: At Birkbeck College, Luckhurst has been instrumental in fostering the institution's renowned culture of interdisciplinary studies. His work seamlessly integrates literary analysis with cultural theory, film studies, architectural history, and scientific discourse. This approach has influenced generations of students and scholars, establishing Birkbeck as a leading center for innovative literary and cultural research.
Katherine Isbister is a full professor in the Department of Computational Media at the University of California, Santa Cruz, where she directs the Center for Computational Experience. She was previously an associate professor jointly appointed between the Computer Science department at New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering and the NYU Game Center, and served as the founding Research Director of the Game Innovation Lab at NYU. Her research lies at the intersection of Human-Computer Interaction and digital games, focusing on emotion, social connection, and playful experiences. Key research themes include emotion in games , social play , fidget technologies , social VR , and digital characters . Her work combines technical prototyping, design research, and empirical evaluation to understand how interactive systems can support emotional and social experiences. Her publications span top venues such as CHI, DIS, and IEEE Transactions on Affective Computing. Trends in her recent work show a strong emphasis on embodied interaction, affective design, and socio-technical systems for emotional regulation and social connection. She explores how movement, touch, and presence in virtual spaces can enhance human experience. MIT Technology Review TR100 Young Innovator (1999) Best Paper Award, ACM CSCW (2018) New Voices New Visions Award (for SimWorks art series) She has advised numerous students and led research projects involving social wearables, movement-based games, and mental health interventions. Her lab has received recognition from media outlets including NPR, Scientific American, and The Guardian. She has also collaborated with industry partners such as Microsoft, Electronic Arts, and Ubisoft. She leads the Center for Computational Experience at UCSC and has previously directed the Game Innovation Lab at NYU. Her team has produced over 100 peer-reviewed publications and several exhibition-ready games and art installations.
Professor Rainer Böhme is a prominent academic in the field of IT security and privacy at the University of Münster's School of Business and Economics, Department of Information Systems. He also holds a professorship for Security and Privacy at the University of Innsbruck's Institute of Computer Science. His research spans multiple dimensions of digital security, with particular expertise in steganography, digital forensics, privacy-enhancing technologies, and the economic aspects of cybersecurity. Dr. Böhme earned his Doctoral Degree from TU Dresden's Faculty of Computer Science in 2008, following studies in Communications, Economics and Computer Science at Technische Universität Dresden and Université Paris XII. His academic journey includes positions as Assistant Professor at the University of Münster (2010-2015), Postdoctoral Fellow at the International Computer Science Institute in Berkeley (2009-2010), and Scientific Staff at TU Dresden's Chair of Privacy and Data Security. His research interests focus on steganography and steganalysis, digital forensics, privacy-enhancing technologies, security and usability, economic and behavioral aspects of information privacy, virtual currencies, and the economics of information security. His work bridges technical security mechanisms with economic and behavioral considerations, creating a unique interdisciplinary approach to cybersecurity challenges. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward the economics of security, particularly regarding blockchain technologies, cryptocurrency, and privacy valuation. His work increasingly examines the intersection of technical security mechanisms with market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and user behavior. The research spans theoretical game-theoretic models, empirical studies of user behavior, and practical applications in digital forensics and privacy protection. Program Co-Chair, Financial Cryptography and Data Security (2015) Program Co-Chair, New Security Paradigms Workshop (NSPW) (2015) General Chair, 8th International Conference on IT Security Incident Management & IT Forensics (2014) Organizer and Program Co-Chair, 1st Workshop on Bitcoin Research (2014) Associate Editor, Electronic Commerce Research (since 2013) Associate Editor, EURASIP Journal on Information Security (since 2013) Professor Böhme has supervised multiple Master's theses in Information Systems, including work on static code analysis for smart contracts, remote maintenance protocol security, and application protection requirements in retail banking. His research is supported by significant grants from the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space, the DFG, and the EU FP7 program, with projects focusing on digital forensics, privacy-enhancing technologies, and cryptocurrency crime prevention. He leads the IT Security Research Group at the University of Münster, which investigates theoretical and applied aspects of information security with particular emphasis on the economic dimensions of security decisions.
Charles F. Harvey is a Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he investigates hydrology, carbon cycling, and groundwater contamination. His work spans tropical peatlands, arsenic pollution in South Asia, and coastal groundwater dynamics, with field sites in Borneo, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. Education: B.A. in Mathematics (Oberlin College, 1986), M.S. in Applied Earth Science (Stanford University, 1992), Ph.D. in Geological and Environmental Sciences (Stanford University, 1996). Harvey’s research focuses on hydrogeology , carbon sequestration , and contaminant transport . He explores how groundwater flow and biogeochemical processes interact in tropical peatlands and coastal systems, with significant implications for climate change and water security. His recent publications emphasize tropical peatland hydrology , arsenic mobilization , and coastal groundwater exchange , integrating field experiments, remote sensing, and computational models. Scientific Awards AGU Fellow GSA Fellow Meinzer Award (GSA) Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water M. King Hubbert Award for Hydrology NSF Young Investigator Award Harvey leads the Harvey Lab , mentoring students and researchers in projects ranging from groundwater arsenic mitigation to coastal marsh biogeochemistry . His work bridges terrestrial and marine systems , addressing critical planetary challenges.
