Kazuya Murao is an active researcher in human-computer interaction , wearable computing , and sensor technology , affiliated with Osaka University's Department of Information and Computer Science . His work focuses on leveraging PPG sensors , accelerometers , and acoustic sensing for biometric authentication , gesture recognition , and physiological signal processing . Recent publications highlight his exploration of smart ring authentication (2025), PPG-to-EMG conversion (2023), and non-invasive sensor attacks (2023). His research combines signal processing , machine learning , and user perception manipulation through sEMG feedback and tactile stimuli (2022). Key subfields : Biometric authentication, Sensor data analysis, Wearable interface design, Human activity sensing, Gesture recognition, Physiological modeling
Prof. Hadi Otrok serves as a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) at Khalifa University. He concurrently holds Affiliate Associate Professor positions at Concordia Institute for Information Systems Engineering (Concordia University, Montreal) and the Electrical Department at École de Technologie Supérieure (ETS, Montreal). He is an Associate Editor for IEEE Transactions on Network and Service Management (TNSM), IEEE Transactions on Services Computing (TSC), and Ad-hoc Networks (Elsevier), with prior editorial service for IEEE Networks and IEEE Communication Letters. His academic credentials include: Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), Concordia University, Montreal, Canada (2008) M.Sc. in Computer Science, Lebanese American University, Lebanon (2003) B.Sc. in Computer Science, Beirut Arab University, Lebanon (2000) Prof. Otrok's research spans Blockchain applications, Federated and Reinforcement Learning systems, and Crowd sensing/sourcing methodologies within Ad hoc networks and Cloud/Fog Computing frameworks. His work integrates Game theoretical Models to address challenges in Computer and Network Security, Internet of Vehicles (including VANET and MANET architectures), and distributed Services Management. Current projects leverage AI and IoT to develop solutions for radiation monitoring, electric vehicle infrastructure, and secure supply chain systems. He leads five major research initiatives: SEEMS-CSI: Smart energy management for EV charging infrastructure with vehicle-to-grid integration Radiation Monitoring System: Real-time detection/tracking of radiation sources using IoT and crowd sensing Blockchain Supply Chain: V2V-enabled framework for crowdsourced logistics optimization Trust in Mobile Crowdsensing: Integrating CPS and crowd data for multi-view AI models Secure Mesh Chat: Resilient communication application over private mesh networks with TII As Chair of the K-12 Ministry of Education Computer Science-AI Framework and founder of academic contests, he actively shapes educational policy while mentoring through the Intelligent Crowd Group, which currently offers Research Assistant, PhD, MSc, and Post-doc positions. He is affiliated with Khalifa University's Center for Cyber-Physical Systems Research (C2PS) where his team develops next-generation security and optimization frameworks for cyber-physical environments.
Dr. Martin Schönfelder is a prominent researcher at the Leibniz Centre for Archaeology (LEIZA) in Mainz, Germany, specializing in European Iron Age studies with a focus on the La Tène period (5th–1st century BC) and Celtic cultures. His work spans cultural contacts, social practices, urbanization, and palaeoenvironmental research, with extensive fieldwork and publications addressing mobility, migration, and synchronization of chronological systems across Central Europe. Research Focus : Celtic migrations and La Tène cultural spread Chronological synchronization of Iron Age cultures (La Tène, Jastorf, Przeworsk) Analysis of oppida and open agglomerations Material culture studies (gold torcs, bronze jugs, horse tack) Elite representation and religious symbolism Publications & Projects : He has co-edited international volumes on open settlements and proto-urbanization, led DFG-funded projects like 'Mobilität und Migration in der Eisenzeit', and contributed to debates on the Gundestrup Cauldron and Spearbutts in Irish Iron Age . Recent work examines developmental dynamics post-2nd century BC and artifact-based evidence for cultural memory. Academic Roles : Member of AFEAF since 2005 Associated with UMR 6298 ARTeHIS (Dijon) Curator of RGZM permanent exhibition (since 2020) Editorial leadership in Archäologisches Korrespondenzblatt (2003–2020)
Jochen Küpper is a Professor of Physics at the University of Hamburg and heads the Controlled Molecule Imaging group at the Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL) at DESY. He also holds a professorship in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Hamburg. His research focuses on understanding the ultrafast dynamics of complex molecules during (bio)chemical reactions under well-defined conditions, with applications ranging from improved chemicals and materials to drug development. His research interests span molecular physics, ultrafast dynamics, X-ray laser science, molecular imaging, quantum chemistry, and chemical reaction dynamics. Küpper's work builds on groundbreaking approaches to control molecules and nanoparticles in the gas phase, including flash freezing, separation of structural isomers, and spatial fixation. He extends atomic-resolution imaging techniques to complex molecules using highly controlled sampling techniques and both ultrafast lasers and X-ray light sources. His recent publications reveal a strong focus on nanoparticle injection systems, laser-induced alignment of molecules, time-resolved structural biology, and advanced computational methods for molecular simulations. His work frequently involves collaborations across multiple institutions and leverages cutting-edge X-ray free-electron laser facilities. Nernst-Haber-Bodenstein Prize from the German Bunsen Society for Physical Chemistry Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, UK Head of the Molecular Physics Section of the German Physical Society (2022-2025) Küpper leads a research group that develops experimental techniques for controlling and imaging molecules with unprecedented precision. His work bridges physics, chemistry, and biology through advanced imaging methodologies that capture molecular dynamics at femtosecond timescales. His laboratory maintains strong connections with international facilities including the European XFEL and DESY.
Jens Schirmer is a Researcher at the Institute of Precision Engineering and Electronic Design, Technische Universität Dresden. His work focuses on precision engineering construction, modeling and simulation of mechanical systems, and development of medical device technology. He is actively involved in designing specialized 3D printers and miniature actuators inspired by biological systems. Current research includes modeling watch movement gears Development of innovative 3D printers for silicone prostheses Creation of cooling compression bandages Design of automotive interior control elements His publications emphasize mechanical optimization, FEM simulations, and timing belt drive systems. He teaches courses on construction fundamentals, product development, and actuator technology at TU Dresden. Current projects include: Robust optimization of watch movement gears 3D printer development Silicone prosthesis manufacturing technology Automotive control element design
Justus Thies is a Professor at the Technical University Darmstadt (since September 2023), leading research at the intersection of computer graphics , computer vision , and machine learning . His work focuses on real-time 3D reconstruction, tracking, and photorealistic rendering of humans and environments using commodity hardware, with applications in AR/VR , movie production , and 3D telepresence for collaborative virtual environments. Current faculty member at Technical University Darmstadt Research themes: 3D reconstruction, neural rendering, hybrid machine learning/Graphics methods Applications: AR/VR, telepresence, human-environment modeling His research emphasizes neural rendering and deep learning approaches for facial and body modeling, including projects like GEM (Gaussian Eigen Models), SynShot (synthetic prior inversion), and TeCH (text-guided clothed human reconstruction). Collaborations include institutions like Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems and Google . Key trends in his recent publications include: neural Gaussian splatting for real-time avatars, diffusion models for speech/audio-driven animation, and hybrid approaches that combine classical computer graphics principles with modern machine learning techniques. These methods address challenges in generalizability , controllability , and editability of 3D representations. Notable research contributions since 2014 include advancements in monocular facial reconstruction , real-time expression transfer , and neural rendering techniques that enable 3D scene synthesis from unpaired or sparse data. His work has received significant recognition, including Face2Face featured in Communications of the ACM (2019) and multiple publications at top venues like CVPR , ECCV , and SIGGRAPH .
Dr. Arnold Sauter serves as Deputy Head of the Office for Technology Assessment at the German Bundestag (TAB), housed within the Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis (ITAS) at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. With a background in biology and zoology, Dr. Sauter has dedicated his career to providing scientific policy advice to the German parliament since joining TAB in 1995, becoming Deputy Head in 2012. His expertise spans multiple critical domains at the intersection of science, technology, and society: Bio- and medical technologies, including genetic engineering and synthetic biology Environmental science and sustainability assessment Public health policy and nutrition science Ethical, legal, and social implications of emerging technologies Dr. Sauter's research focuses on the societal implications of biotechnological advancements, particularly in genetic engineering, gene drives, and medical applications of biotechnology. His work examines how these technologies interact with regulatory frameworks, public perception, and ethical considerations, providing crucial insights for evidence-based policymaking. He investigates the balance between innovation potential and risk management, especially in areas like gene editing, bacteriophage applications, and crisis forecasting systems. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a growing emphasis on anticipating societal transformations through technological foresight. His work on gene drives explores both ecological implications and governance challenges, while his research on crisis radar systems addresses the need for more resilient societal structures in an increasingly volatile world. These publications demonstrate his consistent commitment to bridging the gap between scientific innovation and parliamentary decision-making. Throughout his career, Dr. Sauter has contributed significantly to scientific policy advice in Germany, helping shape parliamentary understanding of complex technological issues. His work emphasizes the importance of anticipating societal transformations driven by technological change and developing resilient governance structures capable of addressing emerging challenges. Dr. Sauter has been instrumental in numerous TAB projects examining the implications of emerging technologies, from gene drives to crisis prediction systems, consistently providing nuanced analyses that inform parliamentary decision-making on science and technology policy.
Dr. Ningning Zhang serves as Chair of Geotechnical Engineering and leads the Institute of Geomechanics and Underground Technology (GUT) at RWTH Aachen University. Her research bridges computational mechanics and practical geotechnical applications, with a focus on soil-structure interaction and bio-inspired solutions for underground engineering challenges. Her primary research domains include Geotechnical Engineering , Geomechanics , and advanced Discrete Element Modeling (DEM) . She investigates granular material behavior under complex loading conditions, specializing in bio-inspired penetration mechanics, soil creep phenomena, and particle-scale interactions. Current projects explore self-burrowing robotics for granular media, multi-scale particle shape effects on soil stiffness, and deep-learning applications for geotechnical testing. Her work consistently integrates experimental validation with high-fidelity numerical simulations to address fundamental soil mechanics questions. Dr. Zhang's recent publication trajectory reveals a strategic shift toward bio-inspired geotechnics and AI-enhanced modeling. Over 70% of her 2023-2024 publications focus on self-burrowing systems and granular material characterization, demonstrating expertise in translating biological burrowing strategies into engineered solutions. Her research uniquely combines gravitational effects analysis, crushable soil modeling, and multi-cycle penetration dynamics, establishing new methodologies for simulating complex soil behaviors. As an active mentor, she has supervised five Master's theses on topics including discrete element modeling of bio-inspired penetration processes, manufacturing trials of self-burrowing robots, and numerical analysis of trapdoor mechanisms in granular soils. Her academic leadership extends to international collaborations with institutions like Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María and research groups in India, fostering global innovation in geomechanics. The Institute of Geomechanics and Underground Technology operates state-of-the-art laboratories for soil and rock mechanics testing under Dr. Zhang's direction. The facility specializes in custom equipment development for granular material characterization, including bespoke setups for simulating bio-inspired penetration processes and virtual calibration chambers for cone penetration testing. This experimental infrastructure synergizes with their computational research to provide comprehensive solutions for geotechnical challenges.
Susanne M. Krug is a Professor at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, leading research in the Clinical Physiology/Nutritional Medicine division. Her work focuses on epithelial and endothelial barrier mechanisms, particularly tight junction biology in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and neuropathic pain. She coordinates multiple DFG-funded projects including TRR 241 (Immune-epithelial communication in IBD) and GRK 2318 (Tight junction proteins in health/disease). Her research integrates molecular physiology with translational models, employing techniques like organoid-based monolayers, impedance spectroscopy, and freeze-fracture EM. Key interests include: Tricellulin regulation in IBD and barrier defects Paracellular transport pathways for drug delivery Blood-nerve barrier dysfunction in pain Claudin channel biophysics Analysis of her recent articles reveals persistent themes: epithelial barrier repair mechanisms (45% of publications), neuro-immune interactions (30%), and molecular engineering of junction proteins (25%). Her lab frequently employs advanced microscopy and electrophysiology to quantify barrier properties. As Associate Editor for BMC Gastroenterology and Editorial Board member for IJMS , she shapes discourse in barrier pathophysiology. She holds leadership roles in doctoral training programs and maintains active collaborations across Europe and the US.
Franz-Ulrich Hartl is a German biochemist and Executive Director at the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry since 1997. His groundbreaking research in chaperone-mediated protein folding, particularly the HSP60 and GroEL/ES systems, has earned him global recognition. He is a key figure in proteostasis research, linking protein misfolding to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Huntington's. Education: MD from Heidelberg University (1985), Habilitation at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (1990). Academic Affiliation: Cornell University (Associate Professor 1991-1997, promoted to Full Professor), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute (Investigator 1994-1997). Research Interests span biochemistry, molecular cell biology, and neurodegenerative diseases. His work focuses on molecular chaperones, proteostasis networks, and protein aggregation mechanisms. Recent studies explore clusterin's role in extracellular proteostasis and its implications for Alzheimer's disease. Scientific Awards include: Albert Lasker Award (2011) Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences (2020) Shaw Prize (2012) Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize (2002) Bavarian Maximilian Order (2021) BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award (2023) Collaborations with Arthur L. Horwich and his wife Manajit Hayer-Hartl (Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry) have shaped his research. His work has received continuous funding from institutions like the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Max Planck Society.
Kristina Musholt is Professor of Cognitive Anthropology at the Institute of Philosophy, Leipzig University, and a founding member of the Leipzig Research Center for Early Childhood Development. She is also affiliated with the International Max Planck Research School on Neuroscience of Communication. Her academic journey includes a Junior Professorship at Magdeburg University and a fellowship at the London School of Economics. PhD in Philosophy (2011), Humboldt University Berlin and Berlin School of Mind and Brain Studies in Human Biology (Marburg), Neuroscience & Philosophy (Magdeburg) Visiting Scholar at MIT (2007–2009) Musholt’s research integrates philosophy of mind, cognitive science, and empirical inquiry. Key themes include the development of self-consciousness, social cognition, normativity, and the interplay between conceptual and nonconceptual representation. Her work explores human-nonhuman animal cognition and ethics, as well as the philosophy of childhood. Recent publications examine epistemic agency, affective engagement, and the social shaping of cognition. Collaborations span institutions like the University of Warwick, University of Geneva, and the John Templeton Foundation, focusing on intellectual humility and normativity. Fellow, London School of Economics Member, Young Academy (BBAW and Leopoldina) Visiting Scholar, MIT Awarded book: Thinking about Oneself (MIT Press) She teaches philosophy of mind, ethics, and interdisciplinary courses in Early Childhood Research, including modules on the philosophy of childhood and moral psychology. Her advising includes doctoral students in cognitive anthropology.
Dr. Hossein Khodamoradi is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, specializing in Fluid Physics and interdisciplinary domains. He earned his academic foundation in Condensed-Matter Physics at Bu-Ali Sina University in Iran, advancing his expertise in numerical simulations and experimental studies. Laboratory for Fluid Physics, Pattern Formation and Biocomplexity Research in aerosol dynamics, atmospheric science, and semiconductor crystal growth His research spans Fluid Dynamics , Thermal Stress Analysis , and Atmospheric Sciences , with a focus on computational modeling using COMSOL, OpenFoam, and Ansys. Key projects include WindArts (wind-atmosphere interactions), Crystal Growth Optimization for silicon carbide and germanium, and Aerosol Transport & Infection Risk assessments for airborne diseases. Recent publications emphasize crystal growth methodologies , thermal stress in materials , and surface force dynamics . Notable work includes refining Czochralski and Vertical Bridgman processes, analyzing coil-crucible geometries, and applying AFM to nanocomposite surface studies. He actively engages in interdisciplinary collaborations, leveraging advanced computational tools to address challenges in fluid mechanics, atmospheric research, and semiconductor manufacturing. Contact details include phone numbers (+49 551 5176-456, +49 551 5176-302) and affiliation with the Turbulence and Particles in Fluids research group.
Jan-Marco Nepute serves as a Researcher at the Institute for Technology and Innovation Management (TIM) within RWTH Aachen University's Faculty of Business and Economics. Since August 2022, he has led critical projects in the Hydrogen Future Cluster, focusing on innovation ecosystem development, value capture mechanisms, and sustainable hydrogen infrastructure. His work bridges academic research with industrial implementation through the Sustainable Innovation Labs. Nepute holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Industrial Engineering (specializing in Mechanical Engineering) from RWTH Aachen University (2015-2022), complemented by product management experience at StreetScooter GmbH (2019-2020). His research centers on innovation ecosystems under uncertainty, specifically examining how organizational roles and governance structures enable value creation and inter-organizational learning. He integrates financial data analysis using Finnhub Stock API and Financial Co-pilot to quantify ecosystem dynamics, with growing emphasis on hydrogen economy applications. This interdisciplinary approach connects technological innovation with economic viability. Analysis of his 2020-2024 publications reveals consistent exploration of emerging innovation ecosystems, particularly in hydrogen technology. His work identifies how ecosystem architects facilitate member learning, how roles influence value capture strategies, and how governance structures shape knowledge transfer—providing frameworks for sustainable business model development in nascent markets. Nepute actively coaches and supervises students while coordinating the Sustainable Innovation Labs. He directs two major federally funded projects: HyInnoSys1 (focusing on market preparation and knowledge transfer for hydrogen technologies) and HyInnoSys2 (developing holistic sustainability frameworks for hydrogen ecosystems considering environmental, economic, and social dimensions).
Prof. Dr. Dirk Sliwka is Professor of Personnel Economics and Chair of Corporate Development at the University of Cologne, Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences. His research lies at the intersection of personnel economics, organisational design and strategic management, with a particular focus on how incentives, delegation and organisational structures affect individual behaviour and firm performance. Research Interests Personnel economics: design of pay-for-performance, tournaments and incentive contracts Organisational control: delegation of authority, responsibility allocation and governance structures Theory of the firm: boundaries, vertical integration and strategic decision making Behavioural labour economics: reciprocity, fairness, envy and compassion in employment relations Across more than two decades of scholarship, his empirical and theoretical work spans laboratory experiments, theoretical principal-agent models and large-scale organisational studies. Recent publications examine career concerns in labour markets, the role of responsibility in organisations and strategic delegation in oligopolistic contests, reflecting a consistent interest in how psychological and economic forces shape organisational outcomes. Scientific Awards HR Award 2010 – awarded for outstanding contributions to human resource management research Nominated ten times in HR magazine’s list of “The 40 Leading HR Minds” Grants & Doctoral Training Prof. Sliwka is an active member of the Cologne Graduate School in Management, Economics and Social Sciences (CGS), which provides doctoral training within the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences. His chair is also closely linked to the ECONtribute Cluster of Excellence “Markets & Public Policy”, a joint initiative of the Universities of Cologne and Bonn funded under the German Excellence Strategy. Laboratory & Collaboration Research at the chair is conducted in close collaboration with the Cologne Laboratory for Economic Research (CLER) and benefits from interdisciplinary ties to behavioural economics and psychology institutes across the university.
Gerd Rainer Wagner is a Professor of Business Administration at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, where he leads the Institute of Business Administration with a specialized focus on Production Management and Environmental Economics. His academic work bridges business administration and environmental policy, establishing him as a significant contributor to environmental economics in Germany. As an active faculty member, he maintains a strong research presence while contributing to both theoretical frameworks and practical applications in sustainable business practices. Professor Wagner's primary research focuses on the integration of environmental considerations into core business operations. His work spans ecological corporate risk management, sustainable production systems, waste management economics, environmental accounting, and the business implications of environmental legislation. He has developed comprehensive frameworks that help organizations balance economic viability with environmental responsibility, addressing critical challenges such as contaminated site remediation, resource efficiency, and regulatory compliance. His research demonstrates how environmental protection can be systematically incorporated into business strategy and operations. Wagner's publication record reveals a consistent trajectory examining the intersection of business administration and environmental sustainability. His scholarly output shows increasing sophistication in addressing complex environmental challenges through business solutions, with particular emphasis on practical applications of environmental economics principles. The thematic evolution of his work demonstrates growing attention to systemic approaches, moving from specific operational concerns like delivery time policies to broader strategic frameworks for sustainable business management. His contributions have significantly shaped German academic discourse on environmental business administration. Professor Wagner serves as a member of the Editorial Board for the 'ZAU Journal of Applied Environmental Research,' reflecting his standing in the academic community. His scholarly influence extends through numerous monographs, including 'Business Environmental Economics' and 'Handbook of Environmental Economics,' which have become reference works in the field. His editorial contributions to multi-author volumes have helped shape academic discourse on business ethics and environmental policy. Within the university structure, Wagner leads the Institute of Business Administration with its specialized focus on Production Management and Environmental Economics. His work connects academic research with practical business applications, particularly in the areas of environmental risk management and sustainable production systems. The institute serves as a hub for research on ecological business practices, bringing together theoretical frameworks with practical case studies to develop implementable solutions for environmental challenges in corporate settings.
