Assoc Prof Ng Teng Yong is an Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (NTU), specializing in numerical modeling and simulation. With a background as Research Manager at A*STAR Institute of High Performance Computing, his work spans materials science, nanotechnology, and aerospace engineering. Current focus on graphene-based desalination membranes Expertise in molecular dynamics simulations Investigates nanoscale fluid mechanics and structural dynamics Recent publications highlight advancements in energy-efficient electrodialysis, smart robotics, and nonlinear vibration analysis. His interdisciplinary approach integrates computational methods with experimental validation in additive manufacturing and soft material mechanics.
Amir Farokh Payam is a Senior Lecturer in Electronics and Software at the School of Engineering, Ulster University, UK since 2019. He holds a PhD in Electronics Engineering-Nanotechnology and has previously worked at Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid (2012–2015), Durham University (2016–2018), and University of Bristol (2018–2019). Education: B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, PhD in Electronics Engineering-Nanotechnology His research focuses on dynamic Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) , NEMS/MEMS , Surface Science , and Applied Nonlinear Control . Recent work explores nonlinear harmonics in AFM, solid-liquid interfacial dynamics, and single-cell biomechanical profiling. He leads projects on quantum sensor fabrication and cancer cell viscoelasticity analysis. Key trends in his 15 most recent publications (2025–2023) include advancements in nanoscale imaging , multifrequency AFM , viscoelastic material analysis , and biomedical applications such as viral protein sensing and corneal cell profiling. Collaborative projects span institutions in Ireland, Spain, and the UK. Scientific Awards: Editor's Highlights in Journal of Applied Physics (2018) and Nanotechnology (2015) Best Innovative Idea, Second International R&D Award of Iran (2012) Distinct Graduate Student, University of Tehran Visiting Study Scholarship, Instituto de Microelectronica de Madrid (2010) M.Sc. First Class Student (top among 15) He serves as Unit Director for Mechatronics II and Electronics II modules and supervises BEng/MEng research projects. Active research grants include Royal Society funding (2024–2026) for cancer cell biomechanics and an ongoing 2022–2026 project on solid-liquid interface dynamics.
Professor Chen Xiaodong is a Distinguished University Professor at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, holding primary appointment in the School of Materials Science & Engineering with courtesy appointments in the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine and School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology. He serves as Deputy Director of the Institute for Digital Molecular Analytics and Science (IDMxS) and Director of both the Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFlex) and Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses. His research spans mechanomaterials science and engineering, flexible electronics, sense digitalization, cyber-human interfaces and systems, and carbon-negative technology. Professor Chen's work focuses on developing methods for controlling materials architecture at 1-100 nm scale to solve fundamental and applied problems in energy, environment, and healthcare. His group integrates expertise from materials science, chemistry, biology, physics, and engineering to create innovative solutions. His scientific contributions have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards including the Singapore President's Science Award, National Research Foundation Investigatorship and Fellowship, Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award, Dan Maydan Prize in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and election to multiple national academies including Singapore National Academy of Science, Academy of Engineering Singapore, and German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina. Professor Chen serves as Editor-in-Chief of ACS Nano and sits on editorial boards of numerous prestigious journals including Advanced Materials, Chemical Reviews, and Matter. He has mentored numerous PhD students and research fellows who have gone on to faculty positions at institutions worldwide. His laboratory develops cutting-edge technologies in flexible electronics, bio-inspired materials, and nano-bio interfaces, with strong industry collaborations and translational research focus.
Dr. Carla Winsor serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the United States Coast Guard Academy, leveraging her interdisciplinary expertise across mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, and education to advance biomechanics research and STEM pedagogy. Her unique background spans national laboratories, medical institutions, and military education, fostering an innovative approach to engineering education. Education: Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2022 M.S., Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2019 M.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2019 M.S., Engineering Mechanics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2017 B.B.A., Business Administration (Organizational Leadership), University of New Mexico, 2014 B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, 2013 United States Coast Guard Academy Class of 2011 (Mechanical Engineering/Management) Winsor's research integrates computational biomechanics with educational innovation, focusing on bone density analysis through quantitative computed tomography (QCT), femoral fracture prediction, and calibration methodologies. Her work addresses critical gaps in orthopedic biomechanics while simultaneously tackling systemic barriers in STEM education through system dynamics modeling. This dual focus manifests in publications spanning medical imaging accuracy, sex-specific anatomical modeling, and stakeholder-driven STEM pipeline interventions. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent trajectory toward interdisciplinary convergence: 70% center on biomechanical imaging techniques (particularly QCT calibration and femoral strength prediction), while 30% address STEM education systems. The biomechanics work demonstrates increasing sophistication in phantom-less calibration methods and sex-specific modeling, whereas her educational research evolves from literature reviews toward actionable system dynamics frameworks for pipeline obstacles. Scientific Awards: SB3C MS Paper Competition finalist (2019) Whitaker International Program Continuing Initiatives Grant Whitaker International Program Fellowship Illinois Tech Interprofessional Projects Dean’s Choice Award Illinois Tech Interprofessional Projects Best in Track Award Congressional Leadership Award: Gold Medal Girl Scout Gold Award Winsor has secured competitive research funding through the Whitaker International Program, supporting her biomechanics collaborations with European institutions. Her educational outreach initiatives, recognized by multiple awards, focus on systemic analysis of STEM pipeline obstacles through stakeholder mapping and literature synthesis. She actively mentors students through Coast Guard Academy senior projects and engineering design labs while teaching core mechanics courses. Professional engagement includes the American Society of Engineering Education, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, International Council of Systems Engineers, and Virtual Physiological Human Institute, where she contributes to computational medicine standards and in silico clinical trials frameworks developed during her tenure at Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine.
Andrew Mackenzie is a Professor at the University of St Andrews' School of Physics and Astronomy, specializing in condensed matter physics, quantum materials, and superconductivity. His research investigates strongly correlated electron systems, unconventional superconductors (notably Sr2RuO4), and quantum transport phenomena. Mackenzie directs PhD students on projects involving electron irradiation effects, elastocaloric measurements, and quantum material synthesis. He holds dual affiliations with the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids in Dresden. Research spans: Quantum criticality in oxide metals Anomalous electron transport regimes Strain engineering of superconductors Low-temperature material properties Awards include Fellowships from the Royal Society (2014), Royal Society of Edinburgh (2004), and American Physical Society (2011).
K. Sotthewes is an Assistant Professor at the MESA+ Institute (University of Twente), specializing in the Physics of Interfaces and Nanomaterials . Their research focuses on nanoscale and microscale material assembly, surface science, and electronic property characterization. Key Collaborations : I. S. M. Jimidar, H. J. W. Zandvliet, C. A. Nijhuis Research Themes : Solvent-free particle assembly, topological insulator studies, molecular switching mechanisms Research Trends : Recent work emphasizes dry/wet assembly techniques, polymer monolayer applications in energy harvesters, and proton-coupled electron transport in molecular junctions. Articles span Materials Science , Condensed Matter Physics , and Molecular Electronics . Technical Contributions : Developed novel methods for spatially resolved thermovoltage measurements and in-situ probing of electronic properties in thin films like BaBiO3. Active in self-assembled monolayer and transition-metal dichalcogenide interface studies. Media Impact : Collaborated on 2024 press coverage about solvent-free nanoparticle arrangement , including "Scientists arrange particles 100x thinner than human hair to perfection" and "Researchers assemble patterns of micro- and nanoparticles without using solvents" .
Philip A. Yuya, Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering at Clarkson University’s Coulter School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, also holds affiliation with the Center for Advanced Materials Processing (CAMP). His research integrates theoretical and experimental mechanics of materials to elucidate structure–property–function relationships across a spectrum of materials—from ultra-hard mineralized tissues to ultra-soft polymers and biomaterials. Education Ph.D. in Engineering Mechanics, 2008 – University of Nebraska-Lincoln M.S. in Engineering Mechanics, 2004 – University of Nebraska-Lincoln B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, 1998 – University of Nairobi, Kenya Research Focus Dr. Yuya’s central theme is understanding how micro- and nano-scale structure dictates macroscopic mechanical behavior. He specializes in nanoscale mechanical characterization , employing contact resonance force microscopy (CR-FM) and nanoindentation to probe viscoelastic, elastic, and anisotropic properties of materials. Constitutive modeling complements these experiments, enabling the design of advanced biomaterials, nanofiber scaffolds, and polymer thin films with tailored performance. A second major thrust examines biological and biomedical materials , including trabecular bone and temporomandibular joint cartilage, investigating how aging, menopause, and cryopreservation alter intrinsic mechanical integrity at the nanoscale. Publication Trends From 2007 to 2015, Dr. Yuya’s peer-reviewed output underscores sustained productivity in three intersecting domains: (i) development and refinement of CR-FM and dynamic nanoindentation methodologies for viscoelastic property extraction; (ii) nanomechanical analysis of conjugated polymer films and electrospun nanofibers for organic electronics and tissue engineering; and (iii) high-resolution mechanical mapping of bone and mineralized tissues to inform clinical and biomechanical studies. Scientific Awards & Honors No specific awards explicitly listed in the provided text. Advising & Funding While individual student names are not supplied, Dr. Yuya mentors graduate researchers working on nanocomposite hydrogels, polymer conversion kinetics, and bone biomechanics projects. Funding sources include NSF and industry partnerships through CAMP, supporting instrumentation such as nanoindenters and AFM platforms. Labs & Facilities Research is conducted within CAMP’s shared instrumentation suite, housing state-of-the-art nanoindentation systems and contact-resonance AFM capabilities, complemented by cell-culture and polymer processing laboratories for biomaterial synthesis and characterization.
Jan Liu is a Research Associate at the Institute for Medical Device Technology at the University of Stuttgart. With a background in Electrical Engineering and Biomedical Engineering, Liu focuses on medical device innovation using impedance measurements, sensor fabrication, and needle navigation systems. Their work bridges theoretical simulation with experimental validation in clinical contexts. Education: M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering (2015), B.Sc. in Business Administration (2016), B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering (2014) Teaching: Coordinated courses in Medical Measurement Methods and Practical Medical Device Development (2019-2023) Liu’s research spans biomedical device development, including needle navigation systems using electrical impedance, 3D vein reconstruction , and low-cost vein detection methods. Their work emphasizes simulation (COMSOL, FEM) , tissue phantom fabrication , and soft robotic actuation for medical applications. Recent publications highlight trends in impedance-based tissue identification , multi-local needle sensors , and microscale electrode design . Liu has supervised over 20 theses on topics ranging from venous collapse prevention to speaker vibration actuators and monopolar impedance sensitivity . Key collaborations: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, University of Stuttgart Research grants: Not explicitly mentioned but implied through conference publications
Dr. Shaik Tanveer Ahmed is a Researcher at the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology in the Nanoscopy Department . His work focuses on advanced optical imaging and spectroscopy techniques for biomedical and materials science applications. Non-destructive label-free imaging Quantum emitter fabrication in 2D materials Biomedical applications of Raman and FLIm His research bridges quantum optics , biomedical engineering , and analytical chemistry , with recent publications on electron beam lithography , 1064 nm Raman systems , and atherosclerosis imaging . Publications demonstrate expertise in multimodal imaging and fluorescence background suppression techniques. Scientific contributions include developing O-PTIR for single-cell analysis, channneled polarization Raman for molecular orientation studies, and shifted excitation Raman for fluorescent sample correction. Current work focuses on quantum emitter activation in wide bandgap materials and clinical hyperspectral imaging applications.
Carsten Schulte is a Lecturer in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, with an active research career spanning over two decades. His work bridges engineering principles with cellular biology, focusing on how physical forces and topographical features influence cellular behavior and function. Dr. Schulte's research interests center on mechanotransduction, the process by which cells convert mechanical stimuli into biochemical signals. His work explores how nanoscale topographical features influence cellular adhesion, differentiation, and signaling pathways across various cell types including neurons, pancreatic beta cells, and cancer cells. He has made significant contributions to understanding the role of the glycocalyx, extracellular matrix, and cytoskeletal elements in mediating mechanotransductive responses. His publication record shows consistent output in high-impact journals including Nanoscale, Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, and Journal of Nanobiotechnology, with research trends indicating growing interest in patient-specific applications of mechanobiology principles, particularly in cancer research and regenerative medicine. Two prestigious scientific prizes recognizing contributions to nanobiotechnology and cell mechanics Extensive collaborative network across European institutions Research featured in multiple news outlets and cited in patents Dr. Schulte's work has practical applications in tissue engineering, biosensor development, and understanding disease mechanisms where mechanical forces play a critical role. His research group employs advanced techniques including atomic force microscopy, nanofabrication, and force spectroscopy to investigate cell-microenvironment interactions at the nanoscale level.
Paul Snow is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physics at the University of Bath, affiliated with the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology and the Condensed Matter Physics CDT. His research focuses on the interaction of light and acoustic waves with microstructured semiconductors, particularly porous silicon. His research interests lie at the intersection of condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, and sensor development. He explores how porous silicon can be engineered to manipulate light and sound for applications in optoelectronics and gas sensing. Key areas include photonic and phononic crystals, luminescence, and diffusion of organic vapors in nanostructured materials. The recent publications show a strong trend in utilizing porous silicon for acoustic and photonic bandgap structures, with applications in resonators, sensors, and spectroscopy. His work combines experimental characterization with modeling, particularly in hypersonic and elastic property measurements. He has received research funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the British Council, serving as Principal Investigator on projects such as 'Interactions of Light and Nanostructures for Applications in Sensors' and as Co-Investigator on several others related to photonic crystals and aerogels. Dr. Snow supervises research students and is part of the Optoelectronics Group at Bath. His work contributes to advancing functional nanomaterials for next-generation sensing and wave-based technologies.
Leevi Viitanen is a Visiting Faculty member at the Department of Applied Physics, Aalto University, affiliated with the Complex Systems and Materials research group. He holds a Doctor of Science (Tech.) in Technical Physics, awarded in 2022, and multiple Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Engineering and Technology from Aalto University. Doctor of Science (Tech.), Technical Physics – Aalto University (2022) Master’s Degree, Engineering and Technology – Aalto University (2017) Master’s Degree, Engineering and Technology – Aalto University (2017) Bachelor of Science (Tech.), Technical Physics – Aalto University (2016) His research focuses on sustainable material systems, particularly bio-based foams derived from cellulose and lignin. He investigates rheological behavior, yield stress, hydrophobicity, and microstructure dynamics in soft materials. His work integrates experimental physics with machine learning to predict foam yielding and optimize material performance. He is deeply involved in developing eco-friendly alternatives to plastics, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals. The most recent publications highlight a strong trend in utilizing lignin and cellulose for creating functional, scalable, and sustainable materials, with applications in energy storage, packaging, and green composites. His research bridges fundamental soft matter physics with industrial innovation. Leevi Viitanen has actively contributed to scientific discourse through conference presentations, including topics such as controlling foam yielding with vibrations and predicting local yielding using machine learning. He is also associated with Woamy, an award-winning Finnish startup commercializing bio foam technology, indicating impactful knowledge transfer and entrepreneurial engagement. His collaborative network includes prominent researchers like J. Koivisto and M. J. Alava. He has participated in media engagements discussing dynamics of low-density gels and advancements in cellulose foams for energy storage, reflecting public and industrial interest in his work. His research has been referenced in patents, underscoring its technological relevance. Leevi Viitanen is a key contributor to the advancement of sustainable materials through interdisciplinary research, combining physics, engineering, and environmental innovation.
Mark C. Harrison is an Assistant Professor at the Fowler School of Engineering , Chapman University. He holds a B.S. (2010) , M.S. (2012) , and Ph.D. (2015) in Electrical Engineering from the University of Southern California. His career spans academic research and industry roles as a Research Scientist and Hardware Engineer (2015–2019). Research Focus: Integrated photonics, plasmonics, and epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) materials for communications and sensing. Techniques: Device design using inverse design, nonlinear photonic systems, and optical signal processing. Recent publications highlight three-wave mixing in ITO thin films, topology-based optimization of plasmonic couplers, and low-power nonlinear devices . His work emphasizes compact, phase-matched-free photonic systems.
Professor John Nicholls is a distinguished academic at Cranfield University, where he holds the position of Professor of Coatings Technology. With over 50 years of experience since joining Cranfield Institute of Technology in 1974, he has established himself as a world leader in high temperature materials and coatings research. He currently serves as the Head of the Surface Engineering and Nanotechnology Institute (SENTi), which comprises 26 academic and research staff members plus 52 postgraduate students. Professor Nicholls' research focuses on the design and manufacture of coating systems to combat high temperature oxidation, corrosion, erosion and wear processes. His work has been particularly influential in the development of low thermal conductivity thermal barrier coatings (TBCs), self-diagnostic TBCs, and structured corrosion resistant coatings. His research group has established strong partnerships with 35 industrial companies worldwide, including major players like Rolls-Royce, Siemens, and Alstom Power. Analysis of Professor Nicholls' recent publications reveals a continued focus on thermal barrier coatings, high temperature corrosion mechanisms, and advanced coating characterization techniques. His work spans fundamental research on coating degradation mechanisms to practical applications in gas turbine and energy systems. The research shows increasing interdisciplinary connections, incorporating elements of nanotechnology, machine learning for materials diagnostics, and advanced characterization methods. Professor Nicholls' scientific achievements have been recognized through numerous honors: Election as Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering (FREng) in 2009 Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (FIMMM) Chartered Engineer (C.Eng) status Professor Nicholls has supervised numerous postgraduate students through his leadership of SENTi, which includes 52 MSc and PhD students. His research has been consistently funded through a combination of industrial partnerships (40% of funding) and competitive research grants. He established the National High Temperature Surface Engineering Research Centre in 2004 and has directed it since its inception. Under Professor Nicholls' leadership, SENTi has developed into a world-class research institute with capabilities spanning from laboratory-scale coating development through to pilot plant demonstration. The institute maintains strong connections with industry and has developed specialized facilities for coating deposition, high temperature testing, and advanced materials characterization.
Dr. Kirsten Hamilton-Maxwell is a Senior Lecturer at Cardiff University's School of Optometry and Vision Sciences. As an optometrist and Senior Fellow of Advance HE, she plays a key role in clinical teaching of the undergraduate Optometry program. Her current leadership roles include Year 0 Programme Lead and Module Leader for Investigative Optometry, Introduction to Clinical Optometric Practice, and Basic Clinical Techniques. Hamilton-Maxwell's primary research focuses on improving the accuracy and interpretation of eye pressure measurements, with particular attention to how corneal properties and environmental factors interfere with these measurements. Her work aims to advance glaucoma diagnosis and management, which is crucial as glaucoma represents the leading cause of irreversible vision loss worldwide. She also conducts significant scholarship in higher education, particularly in assessment and feedback practices and technology-enhanced learning approaches including lecture capture, podcasting, and gamification of learning experiences. Her publication record demonstrates consistent research activity since 2007, with work spanning corneal biomechanics, intraocular pressure measurement techniques, and educational innovations in optometry. The research shows a clear progression from foundational studies on corneal thickness and tonometry to more applied work examining environmental factors, clinical protocols, and educational methodologies. Among her notable recognitions are the UNSW University Medal for Optometry (1998) and multiple prestigious prizes during her undergraduate studies at the University of New South Wales, including the SOLA Optical Australia Prize, Theo Kannis Prize, and Hoya Lens Australia Prize. Hamilton-Maxwell actively supervises student research projects at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, with research topics centered on corneal biomechanics, ocular biometry, intraocular pressure, glaucoma, and educational assessment. She has secured research funding including the Cardiff Centre for Education Innovation Seed-corn grant (2016) and Cardiff University Research Opportunities Programme award (2013). Her leadership extends to roles as Director of Learning & Teaching (2018-2021) and External Examiner for the University of Manchester's Optometry program.
