Dr. Andreas Brotzer is affiliated with the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, working at the Geophysical Observatory. He currently holds a research position and is conducting a research stay at the University of British Columbia, Canada. His primary research focuses on rotational ground motions, seismology, and geophysical instrumentation, particularly involving ring laser technology (ROMY project) and multi-component seismic observations. His work addresses challenges like atmospheric pressure interference, sediment depth mapping, and high-resolution earth sensing. Research interests include: 1) Advanced rotational motion measurement systems, 2) Integration of fiber optic and ring laser technologies for geophysical monitoring, 3) Seismic array analysis for crustal structure imaging, and 4) Development of low-noise models for ground motion analysis. He has contributed to projects like the Pinon Flats Observatory in Southern California and Greenland's continental margin studies. Recent work emphasizes vehicular source tracking, length-of-day variations observed via ring lasers, and noise characterization in rotational measurements. His posters highlight operational aspects of large ring lasers and seismic station implementations. Professional profiles are available on ResearchGate and LinkedIn.
Stefano BARBIERI is a Researcher at the IEMN Laboratory (CNRS, Université de Lille) specializing in terahertz photonics and semiconductor optoelectronics. He holds a PhD in Physics from Scuola Normale Superiore (Pisa, Italy) and has held positions at Orbisphere SA and TeraView Ltd before joining CNRS in 2005. His current research focuses on III-V semiconductor detectors/modulators, THz quantum cascade lasers, and optically pumped THz gas lasers. Education: PhD in Physics, Scuola Normale Superiore (Pisa, Italy), 2000 Research Interests: Development of high-performance THz detectors, microwave modulation of THz sources, and semiconductor-based ultrafast optoelectronic devices. Current projects include the ANR-funded 'BIRD' (2022–2026) and 'COMPTERA' (2023–2028) initiatives. Recent Projects: ANR PRC 'BIRD' – Mid-infrared semiconductor modulators ANR PEPR 'COMPTERA' – THz imaging components Awards: Royal Society Industry-fellowship (2004) Labs/Teams: THz-Photonics group at IEMN, leading collaborations in optoelectronic device development and THz technology. Active in interdisciplinary projects involving quantum cascade lasers and molecular laser systems.
Gabriela HUMINIC is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania. Her office is located in Building H, room HI25 at Colina Universității campus. With extensive research contributions in thermal engineering and nanofluids, she has established herself as a leading expert in heat transfer applications using advanced nanofluid technologies. Research Interests Professor HUMINIC's research primarily focuses on Heat and Mass Transfer , Applied Thermodynamics , and Nanofluids , with particular emphasis on hybrid nanofluid systems. Her work explores the thermo-physical properties of various nanofluid compositions, including water-based Fe-Si hybrid nanofluids, Ag NPs-rGO hybrid nanofluids, and graphene oxide-silicon hybrid nanofluids. She investigates how these advanced fluids can enhance heat transfer in solar collectors, heat exchangers, and other thermal systems. Her research has significant implications for renewable energy applications, particularly in improving the efficiency of solar thermal systems through direct absorption solar collectors. She examines critical properties such as thermal conductivity, viscosity, surface tension, and photo-thermal conversion characteristics to optimize nanofluid performance in practical engineering applications. Publication Trends Analysis of Professor HUMINIC's recent publications reveals a strong focus on hybrid nanofluid applications for solar energy systems. Her work demonstrates a progression from fundamental property characterization to practical implementation in thermal devices. The research shows increasing sophistication in nanofluid composition, with recent studies exploring plasmonic-magnetic hybrid systems and multi-component nanofluids for enhanced solar absorption. Her publications consistently address critical engineering challenges in renewable energy conversion and thermal management systems. Scientific Recognition ISI WoS Hot Paper in Field (Top 0.1% papers in research field) ISI WoS Highly Cited in Field (Top 1.0% papers in research field) - for "Hybrid nanofluids for heat transfer applications – A state-of-the-art review" ISI WoS Highly Cited in Field (Top 1.0% papers in research field) - for "Application of nanofluids in heat exchangers: A review" Research Supervision and Projects Professor HUMINIC has supervised numerous research projects focused on nanofluid applications in thermal engineering. Her work involves extensive experimental investigations and numerical modeling of heat transfer phenomena. She has contributed significantly to the understanding of entropy generation in nanofluid systems and the thermophysical behavior of complex fluid mixtures. Her research bridges fundamental nanotechnology with practical engineering applications, particularly in renewable energy systems. Laboratory and Research Teams Professor HUMINIC conducts her research within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Transilvania University of Brasov, likely utilizing specialized thermal engineering laboratories equipped for nanofluid synthesis, characterization, and thermal performance testing. Her collaborative work with researchers like A. Huminic, C. Fleaca, F. Dumitrache, and I. Morjan suggests an active research group focused on advancing nanofluid technology for heat transfer applications.
Federico Capasso is the Robert L. Wallace Professor of Applied Physics and Vinton Hayes Senior Research Fellow in Electrical Engineering at Harvard University's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). He directs the Capasso Group, a leading research team focused on metamaterials, metasurfaces, and advanced photonics. His work bridges fundamental optics and applied technologies, with breakthroughs in flat optics and semiconductor lasers. Research interests include metasurface engineering, nonlinear optics, quantum optoelectronics, and nanophotonic devices. Notable contributions include metalens development, mid-infrared photonics, and structured light fields. He co-founded Metalenz, a startup commercializing metasurface technologies for consumer applications. Publications span over 500 articles in journals like Nature, Science, and Nature Photonics, emphasizing innovations in optical systems, soliton dynamics, and polarization control. His group's work on free-standing bilayer metasurfaces and mid-infrared laser chips highlights cutting-edge advancements. Awards and honors include the University of Regensburg's dissertation prize for his student Joshua Mornhinweg. Capasso's lab develops novel optical components for imaging, sensing, and communication, with applications in astronomy, medical diagnostics, and consumer electronics. Ongoing projects explore 3D holography, topological photonics, and ultrafast optical systems.
Karim Karim is a Professor at the University of Waterloo and serves as Associate Vice-President of Commercialization and Entrepreneurship. His research focuses on advanced X-ray imaging technologies, semiconductor materials, and radiation detection systems. He leads innovations in X-ray detector design, with applications in biomedical imaging and medical diagnostics. Dr. Karim’s work emphasizes materials like TlBr and amorphous selenium, alongside advancements in phase-contrast imaging and detector miniaturization. His research spans semiconductor characterization, detector optimization, and portable diagnostic devices. Key areas include improving temporal performance of detectors, developing high-resolution grating systems, and applying machine learning to image retrieval. Dr. Karim’s contributions address challenges in kidney stone analysis, computed tomography, and point-of-care diagnostics. Publications highlight breakthroughs in multi-layer grating fabrication, dual-energy detectors, and monolithic CMOS-integrated systems. His work bridges material science and engineering, advancing medical imaging capabilities through interdisciplinary approaches.
Dr. Jane Lehr is a Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of New Mexico (UNM), where she has served since 2013. She previously chaired the department from 2013 to 2015. A Fellow of the IEEE since 2008, she is actively involved in the Applied Electromagnetics Group, focusing on pulsed power systems, high-voltage phenomena, and electrical insulation. Her research explores topics like exploding wire phenomena, corona discharges, and dielectric breakdown mechanisms. Education: Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, New York University, 1996 B.E. in Electrical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, 1985 Research Interests: Dr. Lehr’s work spans theoretical and applied aspects of electrical engineering, including pulsed power systems, high-voltage insulation, plasma dynamics, and advanced semiconductor switches. Her recent projects address challenges in aircraft MVDC power systems, laser-triggered gas switches, and high-power Marx generators. Publications Trends: Her recent articles highlight advancements in Marx generator optimization, photoconductive semiconductor switches, and partial discharge analysis in high-voltage systems. She also explores novel applications of nanotechnology in photonic sensors and low-pressure effects on aircraft power cables. Awards: 2015 IEEE Nuclear and Plasma Sciences Society’s Richard F. Shea Distinguished Member Award IEEE Fellow (2008–present) Advise & Grants: Dr. Lehr has led projects funded by organizations like Sandia National Laboratories and the Air Force Research Laboratory. Her work emphasizes practical applications of pulsed power in aerospace and energy systems. Labs & Teams: She collaborates within the Applied Electromagnetics Group at UNM, focusing on experimental and computational studies of high-voltage phenomena and advanced power electronics.
Patrick G. O'Shea is a Professor and Vice President for Research at the University of Maryland, holding joint appointments in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Physics, and the Institute for Research in Electronics & Applied Physics (IREAP). He previously served as Chair of the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering at the A. James Clark School of Engineering and Director of IREAP. His research focuses on charged particle beam dynamics, free-electron lasers (FELs), and high-power radiation sources. He leads the Bright Beams Collective Research Group, advancing compact THz FELs and terawatt X-ray sources. O'Shea has held leadership roles including President of University College Cork (Ireland) and Vice President for Research at UMD. His honors include Fellowships from AAAS, APS, IEEE, and the Royal Society of Arts. Recent work emphasizes ultra-high-power XFEL harmonics, beam emittance control, and applications in cancer therapy and quantum technologies. Education: BSc in Physics (National University of Ireland, Cork), M.S. and Ph.D. in Physics (University of Maryland). Key contributions include record-breaking H⁻ beam brightness on the BEAR rocket test stand, discovery of solitary waves in electron beams, and theoretical work on emittance compensation. He chairs UMD's Research Conflict of Interest Committee and has advised students like Liam Pocher (recipient of the NAPAC22 best student paper award). O'Shea collaborates on projects such as the DarkLight experiment at Jefferson Lab and scalable accelerator technologies for future particle physics facilities. Research highlights include developing laser-controlled ion accelerators, achieving 30 MV/m proton gradients, and pioneering THz FEL design. His group explores medical isotope production via electron beams and ultra-fast radiotherapy. Ongoing projects aim to revolutionize XFEL efficiency through novel beam sources and tapered undulators. Awards include the UMD Distinguished Scholar-Teacher Award and multiple professional society recognitions.
Trevor Hyde is a Reader (equivalent to Associate Professor) in the School of the Built Environment at Ulster University, where he serves as Course Director for the BSc (Hons) Building Surveying part-time program. He is affiliated with the Centre for Sustainable Technologies and is a Core member of the Built Environment Research Institute. His primary research focuses on improving building energy efficiency through advanced technologies. Key research areas include: Advanced glazing and façade systems Vacuum glazing technology Building integrated photovoltaics and solar thermal systems High-performance insulation systems Retrofit solutions for domestic housing Dr. Hyde has secured research funding from multiple sources including EPSRC, RCUK, Invest NI, SFI, EU, and industrial collaborators. His work has led to several patents for novel sealing mechanisms for vacuum glazing and concentrating photovoltaic evacuated glazing systems. Notable recognition includes having a paper shortlisted for Best Overall Paper Award at the 2019 CitA BIM Gathering. He has been actively involved in multiple research projects, including: Design and Experimental Evaluation of Innovative Concentrating Photovoltaic Glazing (CoPVG) Systems (2025-2027) Passive House With Integrated Zero Emission Climate Control Systems (2023-2025) SoLow Solar Energy Storage in combination with innovative Low-Energy Dwellings (2020-2022) EENSULATE: Development of Innovative Lightweight and Highly Insulating Energy Efficient Components (2016-2021) High Performance Vacuum Flat Plate Solar Thermal Collectors (2013-2016) Dr. Hyde leads Ulster University's development, fabrication and characterization of advanced low heat loss vacuum glazing and façade systems, making significant practical contributions to the field.
Dr. Adrian Pugsley is a Lecturer in Electrical & Energy Engineering at the Belfast School of Architecture and the Built Environment , Ulster University. His expertise lies in Building Integrated Renewable Energy Systems , with a focus on photovoltaic-thermal (PV/T) technology, solar thermal systems, and energy storage solutions. Adrian's academic qualifications include a B.Eng in Electroacoustics (2000), an MSc in Renewable Energy and Energy Management (2013, with distinction and McBride Prize), and a PhD in Building Integrated Solar Collectors (2017). Key research areas include Phase Change Heat Transfer , Off-grid Energy Systems , Solar Desalination , and Nanocomposite Solar Water Heaters . He actively contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals through projects like SolaFin2Go and SolaNetwork , which address rural electrification in sub-Saharan Africa and building energy efficiency. Adrian has received the McBride Prize (2013) and collaborates with industrial partners such as Unilever and Network Rail . A dedicated educator, he supervises student projects, lectures on Solar Energy and Building Acoustics , and engages in secondary school outreach to promote renewable energy courses. His work combines experimental testing , prototyping , and theoretical analysis , with recent projects involving Switchable Insulation Panels and Zero Emission Climate Control Systems . Adrian also serves as a technical reviewer for journals like Renewable Energy , ensuring quality in academic discourse.
Prof. Karsten Pietsch is a Professor of Mechatronics at Berlin University of Technology's Department VII (Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, and Optometry). He holds roles including Program Spokesperson for the Master's Mechatronics Program, Head of the Laboratory for Design and CAD Technology, and Member of the Mechatronics Industry Advisory Board. His research focuses on Energy Harvesting and Tolerance Management, with a strong emphasis on mechanical design and mechatronic systems. He teaches courses ranging from foundational Mechanical Design in the BA to advanced topics like Multibody Systems using Robotics in the MA. His work integrates practical industry collaboration, reflected in patents and competitions like the IGUS 'Manus' contest. He advises Master's theses and oversees projects in mechatronic systems development. Contact: pietsch@bht-berlin.de, based at Haus Gauß B, Room B414. Research highlights include innovations in electromagnetic micro-generators, parametric CAD methods (SAXSIM), and tolerance optimization in mechanical systems. He has contributed to industry-relevant technologies such as clutch designs, gearboxes, and lighting systems. His teaching portfolio spans Finite Element Analysis (FEMM), Multibody System Dynamics, and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE), emphasizing hands-on learning through guided tours and lab projects.
Dr. Yu Tian-You is a Professor in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Oklahoma. He holds a B.S. and M.S. in Atmospheric Physics and Space Science from National Central University (Taiwan), and a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His postdoctoral research at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) focused on radar technologies for atmospheric dynamics analysis. Currently, he leads research in phased array weather radar systems, tornado detection algorithms, and radar measurement advancements through the Advanced Radar Research Center and Radar Innovations Lab. Dr. Yu’s work bridges electrical engineering and meteorology, with notable contributions to holographic display technologies, beam steering systems, and liquid crystal optics. His research portfolio spans over two decades, integrating signal processing innovations with environmental monitoring applications. Collaborative projects include multi-ancestry genetic studies and intercultural communication theories, reflecting interdisciplinary interests. His lab affiliations emphasize practical applications of radar technology and display systems, with recent focus on varifocal lenses and coherent backlight units for holographic displays. Though no formal awards are listed, his prolific publication record (over 50 entries from 2013–2024) underscores sustained academic impact in optics, meteorology, and interdisciplinary fields.
Mª CARMEN BAO VARELA serves as a University Professor in the Department of Applied Physics at the Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela. She maintains dual institutional affiliations with the Materials Institute (iMATUS) and the Strategic Grouping in Materials (AEMAT), while actively contributing to the P4Life (Photonics4Life) research group. Her doctoral research, completed in 1998 at the University of Santiago de Compostela, focused on integrated optics waveguide design under supervisors Dr. Carlos Gómez-Reino and Dr. María Victoria Pérez Martín. The thesis, titled Contribution to the design of basic devices for integrated optics with flat waveguides with hyperbolic secant type refractive index profile , established her expertise in refractive index engineering for photonic devices. Her research portfolio centers on Optics and Photonics , with specialized work in Integrated Optics systems. She develops theoretical models for flat waveguide structures using hyperbolic secant refractive index profiles, targeting applications in optical communications and sensing technologies through the P4Life initiative. Current collaborative efforts involve the Strategic Grouping in Materials (AEMAT), where she bridges photonics research with advanced materials science. Her laboratory work within iMATUS focuses on translating waveguide design principles into functional photonic components for biomedical and industrial applications.
Amir Arbabi is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He leads the Photonics Laboratory, focusing on experimental and theoretical research in flat optics, photonic integrated circuits, and high-contrast transmitarray metasurfaces. His work bridges nanophotonics and practical applications in wearable electronics, biomedical sensing, and industrial equipment. Education: PhD, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign MSc, University of Waterloo BSc, University of Tehran Postdoc/Research Scientist, Caltech Research Interests: Dr. Arbabi's group develops miniaturized optical systems with planar form factors. Their projects include visible metalenses with high focusing efficiency, dispersive metasurface systems, and vertical integration platforms for active devices like lasers and modulators. They emphasize scalable manufacturing techniques such as nanoimprint lithography and atomic layer deposition. Recent Trends: His publications highlight advancements in metalens fabrication (2023), dispersion control via cascaded metasurfaces (2022), and scalable manufacturing of photonic components (2021–2023). Collaborative work spans materials engineering (TiO2, Si3N4), quantum photonics, and THz metasurfaces. Scientific Awards: Best ECE Junior Faculty award (2021) K. C. Yeh Endowed Fellowship (2013) Nick and Katherine Holonyak, Jr. Graduate Fellowships (2011–2012) Advising: Actively recruiting graduate students with backgrounds in electromagnetics, nanofabrication, or optoelectronics. Current advisees include Babak Mirzapourbeinekalaye, Ayyoub Dehmollaian, and Maryam Ghahremani. Former students like Mahdad Mansouree (now at Lumentum Operations LLC) and Andrew McClung (Raytheon Technologies) highlight his lab's industry impact.
Francesco Monticone is an Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Cornell University. He earned his B.Sc. and M.Sc. (summa cum laude) from Politecnico di Torino, Italy (2009, 2011), and his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin (2016) under Prof. Andrea Alu. Joining Cornell in 2017, his research bridges electromagnetics, metamaterials, and nanophotonics with applications from microwaves to optical frequencies. Education: B.Sc., Politecnico di Torino (2009) M.Sc., Politecnico di Torino (2011) Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin (2016) His research focuses on wave interaction with engineered materials, including cloaking, non-Hermitian systems, and topological electromagnetics. He explores non-traditional paradigms like time-modulated metasurfaces and photonic time crystals to overcome physical limitations in absorption, reflection, and nonlinear optics. Recent work spans nonlocal flat optics , multi-MHz wireless power transfer , and quantum optical metasurfaces , emphasizing cross-disciplinary innovation. His publications in journals like Physical Review Letters and Nature Nanotechnology highlight extreme wave control and causality-driven design. Scientific Awards Michael Tien ’72 Sustained Excellence and Innovation in Engineering Education Award (2020) Leopold B. Felsen Award for Excellence in Electrodynamics (2019) AFOSR Young Investigator Program Award (2018) Margarida Jacome Dissertation Award (2017) Dr. Monticone has authored 100+ peer-reviewed works with 5000+ citations and delivered 40+ invited talks. He serves as a reviewer for journals/conferences and has been on the organizing committee of the Metamaterials Congress since 2015. His research group combines theoretical, numerical, and experimental approaches to push boundaries in applied electromagnetics.
Maria Kovaci is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Communications, Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunications, Politehnica University of Timisoara. She has been affiliated with the university since 1999, holding roles as preparator (1999–2002), assistant (2002–2013), and currently serving as Șef de lucrări (Head of Works) since 2013. Her PhD in 2009, supervised by Prof. Miranda Naforniță, focused on improving turbo code performance in flat fading channels. Educations: PhD in Electronics and Telecommunications (2009), Politehnica University of Timisoara Key Research Areas: Turbo coding, metamaterials, supercapacitors, spintronics, wireless communications, and information theory Her research emphasizes optimizing communication systems through advanced coding techniques and material science innovations. Notable contributions include interleaver design for turbo codes, supercapacitor material optimization, and multiferroic nanocomposite studies. Over 50 peer-reviewed papers and four co-authored books reflect her expertise in telecommunications and materials engineering. Recent articles (2023–2024) explore supercapacitor energy density and conductive polymer coatings, while earlier work (2015–2020) addresses turbo coding performance in fading channels and metamaterial applications. She has received awards including the 2013 Excellence Award at IManE Conference and 2005 Dean’s Excellence Diploma. Grants: Postdoctoral funding via POSDRU/159/1.5/S/137070 (2014) Advising: Supervised diploma project on WIMAX routing protocols (student: Savastre Dorian, 2018) Administrative roles include organizing International Symposium of Electronics and Telecommunications (ISETC), serving as Chair (2014), and editorial work for the Scientific Bulletin (UPT). She is also an active reviewer for IEEE conferences and journals since 2002.
