Dr. Abraham Vázquez-Guardado is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at NC State University, joining in January 2023. He holds a Ph.D. in Optics and Photonics from the University of Central Florida (2018), a Master's in Optics from the National Institute for Astrophysics, Optics and Electronics (2012), and a B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering (Automation) from Universidad Autónoma de Nayarit (2007). His postdoctoral work at Northwestern University's Querrey Simpson Institute for Bioelectronics focused on wireless implantable devices for neuroscience and biomedical applications. Ph.D. in Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida (2018) M.S. in Optics, National Institute for Astrophysics, Optics and Electronics (2012) B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering, Universidad Autónoma de Nayarit (2007) His research centers on optoelectronic and nanophotonic devices for bidirectional bio-interfaces, enabling applications in real-time biosensing , neuroscience research , clinical diagnostics , and feedback-controlled human interfaces . The Vázquez Research Group specializes in: Wireless implantable biomedical devices Bioresorbable electronics Machine learning for unsupervised medical systems Micro/nano fabrication of photonic devices Optogenetic control systems His recent publications highlight adaptive energy harvesting for wearables, autonomous opioid overdose prevention devices, and wireless thermo-haptic VR interfaces , demonstrating expertise in merging photonics with biomedical innovation. The group's work emphasizes translating nano-engineered systems into clinical solutions while fostering inclusive academic excellence.
Ronaldo Badenhorst is a Post Doctorate Researcher at the Textiles, Merchandising and Interiors department within the College of Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Georgia. His research focuses on advanced materials engineering and biomedical applications. His recent publications highlight expertise in: Stimuli-responsive interfaces Electrochemically triggered drug delivery systems pH-sensitive biomaterials Avidin-biotin interactions Microstructured polymer brushes Nanocomposite hydrogels
Bruce P. Lee is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Michigan Technological University's College of Engineering. He holds a PhD and MS in Biomedical Engineering from Northwestern University and a BS in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University. PhD, Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University MS, Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University BS, Chemical Engineering, Cornell University Dr. Lee’s research focuses on biologically-inspired molecular designs using chemistry, polymer engineering, and materials science to develop functional materials for biomedical applications. Key projects include: Tough hydrogels for tissue adhesives and extracellular matrices Antifouling coatings to prevent non-specific protein/cell absorption Biomimetic nanocomposite systems pH-responsive and reversible adhesion mechanisms His recent publications highlight advancements in biomimetic hydrogels and bioadhesive technologies , with applications in tissue repair and antimicrobial systems. Notably, he received the 2016 Young Investigator Award from the Office of Naval Research. Dr. Lee also co-founded Nerites Corporation, which was acquired by Kensey Nash (Royal DSM) in 2011.
Kirsi Mikkonen is a Professor at the Department of Food and Nutrition Research, University of Helsinki, affiliated with the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry and the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science. Her research focuses on valorizing biomass streams, particularly wood-derived hemicelluloses and fungal biomass, exploring their applications in sustainable materials such as food packaging, emulsions, and hydrocolloids. She holds a PhD in Food Technology (2009) and an MSc (2004) from the University of Helsinki, alongside a Docent title in Food Materials Science (2013). Her research integrates biopolymer functionality at interfaces, emphasizing sustainability and biodegradability. Key projects include the ERC-funded 'PARTIFACE' (2020–2025) and 'Novo Nordisk Foundation' grant (2022–2027). She teaches food technology courses and supervises doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s theses. Notable achievements include the ERC Consolidator Grant and media recognition for her work on wood-based materials in food and cosmetics. Grants and collaborations span organizations like the Academy of Finland, Business Finland, and Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation. Her work addresses climate-smart food systems and biorefinery innovations.
Kaizheng Zhu is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Engineering at the University College of Southeast Norway (Høgskolen i Østfold). His research focuses on thermoresponsive polymers, block copolymers, self-assembly processes, and their applications in drug delivery and smart materials. He has collaborated extensively with researchers in polymer chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology. Zhu's work often involves studying the behavior of polymers under varying temperature, ionic conditions, and molecular architectures. Key research interests include the design of stimuli-responsive materials, nanoparticle synthesis for biomedical applications, and the characterization of polymer self-assembly mechanisms. His publications span topics such as solid-state batteries, phase transitions in copolymer systems, and the development of tunable hydrogels. Zhu has contributed to over 50 peer-reviewed articles in journals like Macromolecules , ACS Omega , and Langmuir , reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to materials science. His projects include the SEAD (Tunable and Durable Seawater Adhesives) initiative and collaborations on nanoparticle drug delivery systems. Despite no listed awards, his work demonstrates significant contributions to understanding polymer dynamics and applications in energy storage and biomedical fields.
Núria Oliva Jorge, PhD, is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Bioengineering, IQS School of Engineering, Institut Químic de Sarrià (Universitat Ramon Llull). She is a faculty member in the Master’s Degree in Materials Science and Engineering and contributes to programs in Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, and Cosmetics. Her academic role is supported by the prestigious Junior Leader F. La Caixa program, emphasizing her leadership in translational research. Her research interests focus on biomaterials , nanotechnology for cancer therapy , bioadhesives , and cartilage regeneration . She is a key member of the GEMAT – Materials Engineering research group, where she leads projects at the intersection of materials science and regenerative medicine. The recent publications and projects reflect a strong trend in developing injectable, biocompatible, and smart biomaterials for therapeutic applications, particularly in osteoarthritis , diabetic foot ulcers , and drug-free wound healing . Her work integrates nanotechnology-enabled gene therapy and targeted molecular delivery , showcasing a multidisciplinary approach to unmet clinical needs. Her scientific recognition includes the Junior Leader F. La Caixa award, which supports her innovative research program. She actively supervises master’s theses and mentors students in advanced research projects. She is involved in advising and project leadership, particularly in externally funded initiatives such as REJUVEN8, APTADEGRAD, Biomaterials Osteoarthritis, and HYDROMIRNA. These projects involve collaboration with industry and research centers, reflecting her commitment to translational science and technology transfer. The GEMAT research group provides a collaborative environment for developing functional materials, surface engineering, and biomaterials. The lab infrastructure at IQS, with over 8,700 m² of advanced laboratories, enables high-level experimental work in materials synthesis, characterization, and application testing.
Christopher Kemper Ober is the Francis Norwood Bard Professor of Materials Engineering in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Cornell University's College of Engineering. He has been a faculty member since 1986, following several years in industry at the Xerox Research Centre of Canada. Ober currently serves as the Director of the Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility (CNF), a leading national resource for nanofabrication. He has held significant leadership roles, including Interim Dean of Engineering from 2009 to 2010. His research is internationally recognized, and he has received numerous prestigious awards and honors. Ober earned his B.Sc. in Chemistry from the University of Waterloo in 1978, followed by an M.S. (1980) and Ph.D. (1982) in Polymer Science & Engineering from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in chemistry and materials, which he has applied to pioneering work in polymer science and engineering. Ober's research focuses on the design and synthesis of advanced polymers for applications in lithography, nanotechnology, and biologically compatible materials. His work enables high-resolution patterning in microelectronics through the invention of new photoresist families. Key research areas include fundamental studies of self-organization in polymers, development of lithographic materials for microelectronics and biotechnology, and creation of environmentally friendly, fouling-resistant surfaces. His group employs state-of-the-art facilities at Cornell for polymer synthesis and advanced characterization. His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward precision macromolecular engineering, particularly using sequence-defined polypeptoids for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography. Research themes include controlling stochastics in patterning, enhancing EUV sensitivity through heavy atom incorporation, designing non-ionic photo-acid generators, and engineering polymer brushes for adaptive optical and antifouling applications. His work bridges polymer chemistry, materials science, and engineering, with implications for semiconductor manufacturing, biomedical devices, and sustainable technologies. National Academy of Engineering member (2023) SPIE Senior Member (2018) Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) (2015) Fellow of the American Physical Society (APS) (2014) Japan Photopolymer Science and Technology Outstanding Achievement Award (2015) American Chemical Society Award in Applied Polymer Science (2006) Humboldt Research Prize (2007) Ober has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers and leads a highly collaborative research group. His work is supported by major funding agencies including the National Science Foundation (NSF), Office of Naval Research (ONR), Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), and industry partners such as Intel. As Director of CNF, he oversees a major facility that supports interdisciplinary research across Cornell and beyond. His leadership in materials chemistry is further evidenced by his involvement with IUPAC, including contributions to standardized terminology in advanced lithography. Ober’s laboratory and team focus on pushing the boundaries of polymer science for next-generation technologies. The Cornell NanoScale Facility, under his direction, provides cutting-edge tools for nanofabrication, enabling research in quantum devices, bio-interfaces, and advanced electronics. His group’s work on polymer brushes, liquid crystals, and sequence-controlled polymers exemplifies a holistic approach to materials design, integrating synthesis, characterization, and application.
Giovanni Marletta is a Full Professor of Physical Chemistry at the University of Catania 's Faculty of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences. His career spans over four decades, focusing on Nanotechnology , Radiation-Matter Interactions , and Bio-Surface Interactions . With 4200+ SCOPUS citations (H-index 34), he has coedited 11 international proceedings and delivered 90+ invited lectures globally. Current leadership: President of Master in Chemistry of Materials (2012–2018), Coordinator of Nanotechnology Laboratory (2011–present) Research: Radiation-induced polymer chemistry (1981–2002), Biofunctional surfaces (1996–present), Molecular self-organization (1999–present) His interdisciplinary work combines ion beam surface engineering with biomimetic design , developing nanoscale platforms for cell adhesion studies, biosensors, and organic electronics. He has held editorial roles at Advanced Biomaterials , Langmuir , and Materials Science and Technology , while serving on EU Framework Program advisory groups and multiple international conference steering committees. Scientific Contributions: Developed ion beam methodologies for controlled surface biocompatibility Pioneered curvature-driven protein orientation studies Demonstrated radiation-induced non-thermodynamic polymer phase transitions
Weinan Xu is an Assistant Professor at the School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering within the University of Akron's College of Engineering and Polymer Science. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology (2015) and completed postdoctoral research (2016-2019) at Johns Hopkins University. Education: Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology (2015) B.E. in Polymer Materials and Engineering, Donghua University (2011) His research focuses on creating stimuli-responsive functional polymers , 2D layered materials , and unconventional 3D fabrication technologies for biosensing, bioelectronics, and energy storage applications. The interdisciplinary projects bridge polymer science, molecular assembly, and 3D manufacturing. Recent publications highlight advancements in 2D material integration , self-folding graphene , and responsive microcapsules . Key trends emphasize adaptive nanocomposites , light-responsive origami , and thermoresponsive biosensing systems . The research group develops hybrid materials combining active polymers with 2D structures, enabling novel applications in soft robotics and energy conversion . The work is supported by collaborations in advanced micro/nanofabrication and interdisciplinary material design.
Joerg Lahann is a Professor at the University of Michigan with appointments in Chemical Engineering , Materials Science and Engineering , Macromolecular Science and Engineering , and Biomedical Engineering . He serves as Director of the Academic Program Biointerfaces Center and is affiliated with multiple research institutes including the Weil Institute for Critical Care Research , Rogel Cancer Center , and Biosciences Initiative . PhD in Macromolecular Chemistry from Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen (1998) Dr. Lahann's research spans biotechnology , nanoparticle engineering , and surface chemistry , focusing on drug/gene delivery systems , advanced biomaterials , and chemical vapor deposition for engineered surfaces. His work addresses challenges in oral cancer chemoprevention , neuro-oncology , and synthetic biology applications . Recent publications highlight innovations in protein nanoparticle design for targeted therapies , deep learning-based surface analysis , and liquid crystal-templated polymerization . His team has made significant advances in non-viral gene delivery , biofilm disruption , and smart biomaterials for dental applications . University of Michigan Biointerfaces Institute Innovation Fellowship (2023) Dr. Lahann supervises research in nanoparticle engineering , biomaterials , and chemical manufacturing processes . His lab has received substantial funding from NSF , NIH , and industry partners for projects including 3D scaffold development , biocontainment strategies , and advanced manufacturing techniques . The Lahann Lab at the Biointerfaces Institute (Ann Arbor, MI) develops therapeutic nanoparticles , engineered extracellular matrices , and multifunctional coatings with applications in cancer therapy , regenerative medicine , and oral disease prevention .
Dr. Zhao Wenting is an Assistant Professor at the School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CCEB) within the College of Engineering at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore. She leads a multidisciplinary research group focused on nanoscale engineering of biological systems, with expertise in membrane curvature, nuclear mechanics, and biomolecular organization. Dr. Zhao received her Bachelor's degree in Bioengineering from Zhejiang University in China, followed by a Ph.D. from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). She completed her postdoctoral training at Stanford University before establishing her independent research laboratory at NTU. Her educational background bridges engineering, chemistry, and biology, enabling her unique approach to cellular biophysics. Her research program focuses on engineering the nanoscale organization of biological systems and uncovering the nanoscale interplay between cells and their environment in both physiological and pathological conditions. Dr. Zhao's group develops innovative nanofabrication technologies to manipulate nano- to micro-scale biophysical properties of subcellular components, with particular emphasis on plasma membrane and nuclear envelope deformations to study cancer, aging, and infectious diseases. Her laboratory has pioneered techniques for using nanopillar arrays to guide subcellular deformations and study cellular responses. Dr. Zhao's research has resulted in numerous high-impact publications in journals such as Nature Nanotechnology, PNAS, Nano Letters, ACS Nano, Nature Protocols, and Accounts of Chemical Research. Her work demonstrates expertise in nanoscale manipulation of membrane curvature, nuclear deformation, and biomolecular condensation, with applications spanning cancer diagnostics, viral infection mechanisms, and smart biomedical devices. Biomedical Engineering Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Ageing Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology Biotechnology Cancer Research Mechanobiology Membrane Biology Cellular Physics Dr. Zhao has secured competitive research funding from multiple sources including the Ministry of Education, NTUitive Pte Ltd, and the prestigious Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP) Young Investigator Grant. Her laboratory actively recruits talents from diverse backgrounds including engineers, biologists, and material scientists, and maintains active collaborations with institutions worldwide such as Yale University and Freie Universität Berlin.
Lia Stanciu is Professor of Materials Engineering and Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University, serving as Interim Head of the School of Materials Engineering. She holds additional appointments in Global Engineering Programs and directs the Nanobioengineering Laboratory. Dr. Stanciu earned her Ph.D. in Materials Engineering from UC Davis in 2003, followed by postdoctoral research at Baylor College of Medicine before joining Purdue in 2005 where she progressed from Assistant to Associate and Full Professor. Her research focuses on interdisciplinary nanobioengineering with emphasis on: Chemical/biological sensing platforms for food safety and medical diagnostics Nanomanufacturing of inkjet-printed biosensors and roll-to-roll fabricated devices 2D materials (MXenes, TMDs) for gas/VOC detection Biologically inspired materials synthesis and biointerface engineering Battery ceramics and bioresorbable metals for medical implants Publication analysis reveals strong focus on aptamer-based detection systems (70%), nanomaterial-enabled sensors (60%), point-of-care diagnostics (50%), with emerging work in machine learning for sensor data interpretation and flexible/wearable platforms. Research applications span food safety, environmental monitoring, and medical diagnostics. Dr. Stanciu teaches undergraduate and graduate courses including MSE 527 (Introduction to Biomaterials), MSE 335 (Materials Characterization Laboratory), MSE 367 (Materials Processing Laboratory), and MSE 430/440 (Senior Design). She currently advises six graduate students in her research group.
Yoeri van de Burgt is an Associate Professor in the Microsystems Section at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). He leads the Neuromorphic Engineering group and is affiliated with the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven Artificial Intelligence Systems Institute (EAISI), and the Eindhoven Hendrik Casimir Institute (EHCI). His research focuses on materials science, organic electronics, neuromorphic engineering, and their applications in bioelectronics and adaptive systems. He has received prestigious awards including an ERC Starting Grant (2017), ERC Consolidator Grant (2024), MIT Innovator Under 35 Europe (2019), and TU/e Ground-breaking Researcher Award (2023). Van de Burgt obtained his PhD at TU/e in 2014, followed by a postdoc at Stanford University. He has held visiting professorships at the University of Cambridge (2017) and Georgia Tech (2022). He is an Associate Editor for Frontiers in Neuroscience and Materials Science and Engineering R , and serves on editorial boards of IOP Neuromorphic Computing and Engineering and Applied Physics Letters . His lab develops organic neuromorphic materials for low-energy computing and biointerfaces, with recent breakthroughs in retrainable biosensors and neuromorphic circuits for smart biosensors and robotics. Over 50 peer-reviewed articles and collaborations with industry underscore his impactful contributions.
Michael Vedel Wegener Kofoed is an Associate Professor at the Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, specializing in biomethanation and CO2 utilization technologies. He also serves as a Project Director, focusing on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of chemical engineering and biotechnology. His research interests include biogas process optimization, bio-integrated carbon capture systems, and renewable energy integration. Key areas of focus are methane production pathways, thermophilic microbial reactors, and emission mitigation strategies for industrial and agricultural processes. Recent work explores biomethanation reactor design, flue gas CO2 valorization, and bio-inspired materials for sustainable electronics. He actively disseminates findings through lectures on topics like PtX (Power-to-X) technologies and green gas production scaling. Notable contributions include studies on hydrogen sulfide emission patterns in biogas plants and surfactant-based methane mitigation in livestock facilities. His research frequently addresses challenges in scaling bio-based processes for industrial applications.
Assoc. Prof. Ertan Yıldırım is a faculty member at Gazi University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, specializing in Physical Chemistry. His research integrates polymer science, biosensors, and surface engineering for medical and environmental applications. Doctorate in Chemistry, Gazi University (2010–2016) Postgraduate in Chemistry, Gazi University (2008–2010) Double Major: B.Sc. in Chemistry and Physics, Gazi University (2004–2009) His research focuses on functional polymers , polymeric films , and medical applications of polymers , particularly using RAFT polymerization for biosensor development and surface modification. He investigates thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, and polymer characterization, with applications in drug delivery, implant coatings, and diagnostic platforms. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in polymer brush fabrication , biomaterials , and electrochemical biosensors for clinical diagnostics (e.g., creatinine, glucose, hypoxanthine). His work bridges synthetic polymer chemistry with biomedical engineering, emphasizing controlled surface functionalization and responsive materials. 2219-TÜBİTAK International Postdoctoral Fellowship (2019–2020) 2211-TÜBİTAK Domestic Graduate Scholarship (2008–2016) He has advised at least one thesis and participated in multiple funded projects, including a TUBITAK-led research network on next-generation biomaterials. His postdoctoral research was conducted at Siegen University, Germany. He is involved in infrastructure development for student laboratories and contributes to academic management as Head of the Unit Quality Commission and Faculty Management Board member. His work involves experimental polymer synthesis, surface characterization (AFM, ATR-FTIR, SEM), and biosensor fabrication, suggesting active laboratory research. No named research team or lab is mentioned, but his collaborative publications indicate team-based research.
