Plenary Speakers

Dr. Joseph J. Marcinko

Principal Scientist & President - Polymer Synergies LLC
USA

Biography

Dr. Marcinko boasts over 40 years of experience in industrial R&D, research management, and academia. His expertise spans biopolymers, polyurethane chemistry, adhesion science, wood and agricultural fiber composites, polymer characterization, and polymer structure-property relationships. An adjunct professor, he has developed industrial short courses on biopolymer adhesives and coatings, polyurethane and polymer chemistry, and adhesion science. Dr. Marcinko has authored over 60 peer-reviewed publications and holds 22 patents, with 2 patents pending. Educationally, Dr. Marcinko earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from The University of Akron in 1992, an M.S. in Chemistry from Case Western Reserve University in 1990, and dual B.S. degrees in Chemistry and Biology from King's College in 1983.

Dr. Walter J. Koch

Director Biochemical Technology, Biotech for Net Carbon Zero-BASF, Germany

Biography

Dr. Walter Koch joined BASF in 2002 and is Director Biochemical Technology at BASF in the unit »net carbon zero«. His work focusses on the evaluation and benchmarking of fermentation technology (i.e. production costs and carbon footprint) towards chemical intermediates and fuels in comparison to chemical technology. Fermentation is especially regarded as a potential future carbon capture and use (CCU) technology given the emerging fermentation feedstocks carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, formate, methanol and hydrogen. He has an academic background in biochemistry and fermentation. He has studied in Tübingen, Munich and Heidelberg and received his diploma in biochemistry from Tübingen university on work related to the activation of the hemolysine of Serratia marcescens. He is author of the book “Pathway design for industrial fermentation” (Wiley 2024).

Dr. Michael Carus

Founder & CEO - Nova-Institute, & Executive Manager of the Renewable Carbon Initiative (RCI), Germany

Biography

Michael Carus, Founder and Managing Director nova-Institute. Michael Carus is one of Europe's leading experts, market researchers and policy advisors on the renewable carbon economy - including bio-based, CO2-based and recycling. In late 1994, together with five other scientists, he founded the private and independent nova-Institute for Ecology and Innovation. From the beginning, Carus has been involved in the company as an owner and one of the managing directors. Today, the nova-Institute employs nearly 50 scientists from a wide range of disciplines, covering markets, technologies, sustainability, communication and policy. In 2020, Carus founded the Renewable Carbon Initiative (RCI), which by 2024 will have more than 60 members from the chemical and other industries. Carus is one of the two executive managers of the RCI.

Dr. Satoshi Okamoto

Team Director of RIKEN
Japan

Biography

Team Director of RIKEN. He joined Sumitomo Chemical Industries in April 1996 and has been consistently engaged in new development and innovation. He succeeded in industrializing catalytic polymerization of liquid crystal polymers for the first time in the world, and while the market remained strong, he succeeded in developing a manufacturing method that satisfies both productivity and quality, which was incorporated into industrial production. He subsequently succeeded in developing a liquid crystal polymer that dissolves in common solvent, leading to its use in 5G antenna substrates, high thermal conductivity substrates, speaker diaphragms, etc. In addition, he engaged in the development of transparent polyimide film, which was also used in Foldable Phones. In 2017, he moved to the planning department at the company's headquarters, where he promoted open innovation and collaborated with ventures in areas such as odor sensors, synthetic biology, and ultra-long carbon nanotubes. Since April last year, he has also been working as a specially appointed professor at Tokyo Institute of Technology (now IST) and a team director at RIKEN, while working with academia to implement strongly correlated material.

Dr. Geoffrey Robert Mitchell

Vice Director - Centre for Rapid & Sustainable Product Development IPL, Portugal

Biography

Geoffrey Mitchell is a Professor and Coordinator Researcher at the Centre for Rapid and Sustainable Product Development at the Polytechnic of Leiria in Portugal. He is also Adjunct Professor at Sri Jayachamarajendra College of Engineering in Mysore, India, and Visiting Medical Physicist at Oxford University Hospitals Trust, Oxford, UK. His diverse research spans physics, biology, chemistry, and technology, focusing on merging quantitative experimental procedures with manufacturing technology. He is known for pioneering in-situ time-resolving neutron and x-ray scattering techniques to analyze structural and morphological transformations in manufacturing processes such as Reaction Injection Moulding and 3D printing, where he developed the concept of morphology mapping. Currently, he is involved in a project applying time-resolving x-ray scattering to injection moulding of semi-crystalline thermoplastic polymers and biopolymers. Geoffrey Mitchell has edited several books, including "Controlling the Morphology of Polymers" and "Electrospinning � Principles, Practice and Possibilities," with a second edition scheduled for 2024. He is currently co-authoring a book with Professor Mahadevappa Kariduraganavar of Karnatak University in Dharwad, India, titled "Design, Processing and Degradation of Plastics."

Dr. Hsin-Cheng Chiu

National Tsing Hua University
Taiwan

Biography

Prof. Hsin-Cheng Chiu received his Ph.D. in Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the University of Utah in 1994. After serving as a faculty member in the Department of Chemical Engineering at National Chung Tsing University for 15 years, hemoved to National Tsing Hua University in 2009. Dr. Chiu has a professional background in design, synthesis and development of stimuli-responsive supramolecular nano constructs for targeted delivery and controlled release of therapeutics. His current interests focus on exploiting hetero junction semiconductor nanomedicines for cancer theranostic applications and developing polymeric multifunctional targeted protein degradation chimeras for treatments of cancer and other diseases. He has published more than 100 peer-reviewed research articles, including those in Biomaterials, Journal of Controlled Release, Advanced Functional Materials, Angewandte Chemie, Macromolecules, ACS Nano, etc. Dr. Chiu also served as the President of the Taiwan Biomaterials and Controlled Release Society from 2020 to 2022. His work has been recognized by receiving the Outstanding Research Award from National Science and Technology Council of Taiwan, the Fellow of Biomaterials Science & Engineering from the International Union of Societies of Biomaterials Science & Engineering, the Award of Excellence in Research from Li Chio Zen Biomaterial Research Foundation and Academic Excellence Award of National Tsing Hua University, etc.

Prof. Feng-Huei Lin

Dept Biomed Eng., National Taiwan University, Inst. Biomed Eng. & Nanomed., National Health Research Institutes, Taiwan

Biography

Prof. Feng-Huei Lin is a distinguished researcher in the field of biomedical engineering with an extensive background in biomaterials and regenerative medicine. He completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science from the National Cheng-Kung University, Taiwan, in 1989, following his Master's in the same discipline and institution in 1985. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Earth Science from the National Cheng-Kung University in 1980. Prof. Lin has been a leading figure in various prestigious institutions, holding key positions such as Tenure Distinguished Professor at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University (since 2012), and Director at the National Health Research Institute's Institute of Biomedical Engineering from 2014 to 2022. He has also served as Director of the Biomedical Engineering Division at the NHRI, and the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at NTU. An influential voice in the scientific community, Prof. Lin is a member of the editorial boards of top-tier journals, including the International Journal of Molecular Sciences and Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology. He was the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Biomedical Engineering from 2007 to 2011. Prof. Lin's research has significantly contributed to the advancement of biomaterials and regenerative medicine, with over 500 SCI-indexed publications since 1990, an H-index of 72, and more than 19,000 citations. He has been recognized as one of the world's top 2% scientists for four consecutive years by Stanford University and is ranked 32nd in Materials Science globally.

Dr. Elke Metzsch-Zilligen

Head of the Division Plastics - Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability & System Reliability LBF, Germany

Biography

Dr. Metzsch-Zilligen is a distinguished chemist specializing in physical chemistry, having earned her PhD from the University of Cologne in 2006. With extensive experience in the food industry, she transitioned to the German Plastics Institute (DKI) in 2011, which later integrated into Fraunhofer LBF in 2012. She led the "Additivation and Durability" department and, as of April 1, 2024, heads the "Plastics" division at Fraunhofer LBF. Her research focuses on developing new additives and optimizing additive systems for thermoplastics. A strong advocate for sustainability, she has significantly advanced the quality of recyclates, enhancing their mechanical, sensory, and optical properties to promote the use of recycled materials over virgin plastics.

Dr. Albin Kaelin

Founder & CEO-EPEA Switzerland, GmbH, Switzerland

Biography

Dr. Albin Kälin is a pioneering figure in sustainable manufacturing and Cradle to Cradle® design. From 1981 to 2004, he served as Managing Director of Rohner Textil AG in Switzerland, where he led the company to win 19 international design awards and initiated the development of Climatex®, the first Cradle to Cradle® products worldwide. For his entrepreneurial achievements, Kälin was named the “Rhine Valley Entrepreneur of the Year” in 2001. Between 2002 and 2007, he was a member of the supervisory board of Fein Elast Group in Austria, and from 2005 to 2009, he served as CEO of EPEA Internationale Umweltforschung GmbH in Hamburg, as well as EPEA Netherlands from 2007. In 2009, Kälin founded epeaswitzerland gmbh, where he continues to serve as CEO. The company specializes in Cradle to Cradle® design concepts, supporting companies worldwide in creating sustainable, cyclable products. Kälin has received numerous accolades, including the CEO Today Europe Award in 2021, and a series of awards in 2022, 2023, and 2024, recognizing his innovative leadership and contributions to sustainable manufacturing. Epeaswitzerland gmbh, under his leadership, has become a global leader in sustainable design, with a strong focus on maintaining the quality of raw materials throughout multiple product lifecycles and using only safe, assessed chemicals. The company operates across various industries, implementing Cradle to Cradle® projects worldwide.

Prof. Shouke Yan

University of Chemical Technology
China

Biography

Dr. Shouke Yan is Professor in the College of Material Sciences and Engineering at Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT) in Beijing. After receiving a B.S. from Qufu Normal University in 1985, he completed his M.S. in Polymer Science at the Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CIAC- CAS) under the guidance of Prof. Enle Zhou. After completing his M.S. study, he joined the CIAC-CAS as an Assistant Professor and then earned his Ph.D. in Polymer Science at the CIAC-CAS under the joint guidance of Prof. Decai Yang and Prof. J. Petermann (Dortmund University, Germany) through a sandwich program between the CAS and the Max-Planck-Society. He then took a position on the research staff at Dortmund University under the direction of Prof. J. Petermann. In 2001, he returned to China through the Hundred Talents Program, to become full Professor at the Institute of Chemistry, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ICCAS). He has been recognized with several honors, including the Excellent Hundred Talents Award and an NSFC Outstanding Youth Fund. His current research focuses on the multiscale structure of polymers.

Prof. Dr. Zhihua Gan

Beijing University of Chemical Technology
China

Biography

Professor Gan is the recipient of the “One-Hundred Talents” funding award of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) (2004) and the Distinguished Youth Fund of NSFC (2010). He received his B.S. and M.S. from Tianjin University in 1987 and 1990, respectively. After his Ph.D. at Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, CAS in 1993, he worked at the same institute till 1998. During 1997-1998, he worked at Chinese University of Hong Kong as visiting scholar and postdoctoral. From 1998 to 2004, he went to Japan and worked at Institute of Physical and Chemical Research (RIKEN Institute) as RIKEN Fellow and Research Scientist of Japan Science and Technology Corporation (JST). When he received “One-Hundred Talents” funding from CAS, he joined Institute of Chemistry, CAS in 2004. In December of 2012, he moved to BUCT and works as a full professor in the College of Life Science and Technology. The research interests of Professor Gan’s group focus on biocompatible and environmentally friendly polymeric materials.

Dr. Febi Varghese

Director & CEO - Kerala State Nirmithi Kendra
India

Biography

Dr. Febi Varghese is a Post Graduate in Engineering (M.Tech-First Rank) and took his Ph.D from the prestigious Mahatma Gandhi University. Having 30 years of professional experience, Dr.Febi has worked as the Director of Coir Board of India and as the Chairman & Managing Director of Travancore Cements Ltd., Managing Director of Kerala Minerals and Metals Ltd. ,Kerala State Industrial Enterprises Ltd., Kerala State Coir Corporation Ltd., KERAFED , Kerala State Coconut Development Corporation Ltd., etc. and also as the Financial Analyst of United Nations . Dr. Febi Varghese has been a regular Speaker to International Conferences held in Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong, etc. He is a Fellow of both Institution of Engineers (India) and Indian Institute of Technical Arbitrators and recipient of Management Excellence Award. Dr. Febi has umpteen number of published Papers and Books and Patented Product to his credit.

Keynote Speakers

Dr. Manuel-Jose Lis Arias

INTEXTER - UPC
Spain

Biography

Dr. Manuel-Jose Lis Arias, Since 1984, teaching Chemical Engineering at the Engineering School of Terrassa (ESEIAAT), BSc ChemEng, MSc Engineering, PhD in Industrial Engineering. Has authored more than 100 research articles and has coordinated several PhD Thesis and more than 200 BSc and MSc Thesis. A lot of different projects in agreement with private and public companies in microencapsulation systems to be applied to solve industrial problems.

Prof. Magnus Magnusson

University of Iceland
Iceland

Biography

Prof. Magnus S. Magnusson, Ph.D., is an Emeritus Research Professor and founder of the Human Behavior Laboratory, University of Iceland. He developed the T-system, including T-pattern and THEMETM software for pattern detection. His interdisciplinary research spans biology, neuroscience, AI, nanoscience, and more, with collaborations across 40 universities. Former Deputy Director at the National Museum of Natural History, Paris, he has held visiting professorships at the University of Paris.

Dr. Vincent Froidevaux

Saint-Gobain Construction Chemicals
France

Biography

Dr. Vincent FROIDEVAUX is a French PhD chemist with a contribution to the field of polymer chemistry. He graduates from ENSCM high school in 2010 and made his PhD in the IAM/ICGM laboratory in Montpellier under Pr Bernard BOUTEVIN’s direction. He works since 2016 for Saint-Gobain Construction Chemical in Chryso Saint-Gobain company within Saint-Gobain as a research engineer team leader under the supervision of Dr René SAINT-LOUP and is in charge of the upstream innovation of the team. He conducted 2 thesis as industrial director. He has worked extensively on the synthesis and application of biobased polymers and materials. He cumulates 13 publications and 3 patents.

Dr. Ming-Fa Hsieh

Chung Yuan Christian University
Taiwan

Biography

Dr. Ming-Fa Hsieh is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Chung Yuan Christian University (CYCU), Taiwan. He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from National Tsing-Hua University and a B.S. in Chemistry from Tamkang University. Dr. Hsieh's career spans academia and industry, including roles as Associate Dean of CYCU's College of Engineering and Chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering. He previously served as a researcher at the Biomedical Engineering Center, Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), Taiwan. His research focuses on biomaterials, cytoprotective effects, and cartilage repair, with publications in journals like *Frontiers in Chemistry* and *International Journal of Molecular Sciences*.

Dr. Wei-Yu Chen

Ming Chi University of Technology
Taiwan

Biography

Dr. Wei-Yu Chen is an Assistant Professor in the International Ph.D. Program in Plasma & Thin Film Technology at Ming Chi University of Technology. He earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from The University of Sheffield in 2019. Dr. Chen's research focuses on plasma surface biomedical modification, atmospheric pressure plasma chemistry, plasma polymerization, and antibacterial/photocatalytic films. His professional experience includes roles as a Senior Researcher at the Taiwan Textile Research Institute and research positions at the University of Manchester and National Taiwan University.

Dr. Joachim Schulze

BioConsulting GmbH
Germany

Biography

Dr. Joachim has over 35 years of international experience in engineering, Process Development, Scale-Up and plant operation. He started his career with Uhde GmbH, an international operating engineering company, and worked from 1999 to 2007 as managing director at Canzler GmbH, then until 2016 as head of the biotechnology division for Thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions (TKIS). The biotechnology division of TKIS has been taken over by the EW Group in 2017 and until June 2019,he worked as managing director of EW Biotech GmbH in Leuna. Joachim is managing partner at BioConsulting GmbH, CTO of PlanetarySAand chairman of the board of the BioEconomy Clusters eV, Halle. Joachim holds a doctorate in chemistry.

Dr. Heinrich Haas

Chief Technology Officer-NeoVac
Germany

Biography

Dr. Heinrich Haas earned his Ph.D. under Prof. Dr. Helmuth Möhwald at Johannes-Gutenberg Universität Mainz, researching lipid membranes and bio-molecular systems. With extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry (Munich Biotech, Medigene, BioNTech), he has advanced various nanoparticle products to clinical stages, focusing on innovative approaches to nanoparticle development and control.

Prof. Ikuo Taniguchi

Kyoto Institute of Technology
Japan

Biography

Prof. Ikuo Taniguchi received his PhD in Engineering from Kyoto University in 1999. He was an assistant professor at Kyoto Institute of Technology until 2004, then a postdoctoral fellow at MIT until 2007, and then a principal investigator at the Research Institute of Innovative Technology for the Earth until 2012, where he conducted research on CO2 capture. He continued his research as an associate professor at Kyushu University from 2012 to 2022, and returned to Kyoto Institute of Technology as a full professor in 2022. He has published 70 papers in refereed journals such as Science and holds 13 patents. He is currently playing a central role in various national projects based on polymer chemistry.

Prof. Delia Teresa Sponza

Dokuz Eylul University
Turkey

Biography

Prof. Dr. Delia Teresa Sponza is currently working as a professor at Dokuz Eylül University, Department of Environmental Engineering. Scientific study topics are; Environmental engineering microbiology, Environmental engineering ecology, Treatment of fluidized bed and activated sludge systems, Nutrient removal, Activated sludge microbiology, Environmental health, Industrial toxicity and toxicity studies, The effect of heavy metals on microorganisms, Treatment of toxic compounds by anaerobic/aerobic sequential processes, Anaerobic treatment of organic chemicals that cause industrial toxicity and wastewater containing them, Anaerobic treatability of wastewater containing dyes, Treatment of antibiotics with anaerobic and aerobic sequential systems, Anaerobic and aerobic treatment of domestic organic wastes with different industrial treatment sludges, Treatment of polyaromatic compounds with bio-surfactants in anaerobic and aerobic environments, Treatment of petrochemical, Textile and olive processing industry wastewater by sonication, Treatment of olive processing industry wastewater with nanoparticles and the toxicity of nanoparticles. She has many international publications with an H index of 42 and 6000 citations.

Prof. Dalila Hammiche

Editor-in-Chief-Biopolymer Applications journal, University of Bejaia
Algeria

Biography

Prof. Dalila Hammiche is a Class A Lecturer and specialist in polymer composites, focusing on sustainable materials, thermoplastic and bio-based composites, and natural fiber nanocomposites. With over 100 publications, three books, and six book chapters, she is also Editor-in-Chief of the Biopolymer Applications Journal and holds an international professorship at the International Telematic University Uninettuno, Italy

Dr. Rajkiran R Tiwari

R&D Manager-YTC America Inc., USA

Biography

Will be updated Soon...

Invited Speakers

Ms. Negar Kazerouni

YTC America Inc
USA

Biography

Ms. Negar Kazerouni is a materials scientist dedicated to developing sustainable and high-performance materials. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Southern California. Currently, at YTC America Inc., she works on designing and optimizing plant-based, recyclable materials that enhance performance while minimizing environmental impact. Her expertise lies in synthesizing and characterizing advanced polymers for energy and sustainability applications. Passionate about bridging science and innovation, Negar Kazerouni aims to create materials that contribute to a carbon-negative future

Dr. Afsoon Farzan

Technical Research Center of Finland (VTT)
Finland

Biography

Dr. Afsoon Farzan holds a PhD in Polymer Chemistry from Aalto University, Finland. Currently, she is working as a postdoctoral researcher in Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT).

Dr. Lorenza Gardella

Head of R&D-XLANCE® SRL
Italy

Biography

Dr. Lorenza Gardella specialized in Polymer Science at the University of Genoa(Italy). After earning a Master’s degree in Chemistry with a thesis on polymer crystallization, she obtained a Ph.D. in Science and Technology of Chemistry and Materials, focusing on biopolymer synthesis. Since 2016, she has been working in the industry, exploring the fascinating world of elastomers as Head of R&D at XLANCE® SRL, an Italian company producing a unique polyolefin-based elastic fiber for textile applications.

Dr. Ananta Adhikari

University of Maryland Eastern Shore
USA

Biography

Will be updated Soon...

Mrs. Malvina Boutigny

University of Bayreuth
Germany

Biography

M.Sc.-Ing Malvina Boutigny has been working as a research assistant at the Department of Polymer Engineering in the Polymer Foams Division since October 2023. Her scientific work is focused on the foaming behaviour of modified PHB(V) by using digital methods to predict the process parameters and the foam properties. From 2020 to 2023, she studied Material and Sustainable Development at ESIREM Engineering School in Dijon(France). During those three years, she did a first internship at the Institute of Polymer Technology (LKT) in Erlangen and focused on the thermoforming of recycled polypropylene. She did a second internship focusing on the elaboration of biobased chitosan resins for micro-electronic applications, at the Institute of polymer materials (IMP) in Lyon (France). During the last year of engineering degree, she studied control and durability of materials in order to complete a master´s degree at the University of Burgundy (France).

Dr. Yu-Chun Chen

National United University
Taiwan

Biography

Dr. Yu-Chun Chen is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Chemical Engineering, National United University, Miaoli County, Taiwan. Her research focuses on hydrogel development, tissue regeneration, and stem cell applications. Dr. Chen received her Ph.D. from the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at National Taiwan University, where she focus on developing injectable hyaluronic acid hydrogels for intervertebral disc regeneration. She then worked for seven years as a researcher in the Department of Orthopedics at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, focusing on cartilage repair and regeneration. She later served as an Assistant Professor at National United University. In recent years, Dr. Chen’s research covers the field of orthopedics, vitreous substitutes and conductive biomaterials for skin repair. Additionally, she serves as a Laboratory Safety and Health Supervisor at National United University. She is also dedicated to mentoring students, providing them with in-depth knowledge of anti-inflammation and their biomedical applications. She would like to linking basic research with clinical applications.

Mrs. Franka Malsch

Fraunhofer UMSICHT
Germany

Biography

Ms. Franka Malsch holds an M.Sc. in Chemistry from TU Dresden (2019). She worked as an Assistant Scientist at Novaled GmbH from 2019 to 2023 and has been a PhD researcher at Fraunhofer UMSICHT since 2023.

Mr. Siddanth Saxena

INTEXTER-UPC
Spain

Biography

Mr. Siddanth Saxena is from India and is currently pursuing his doctorate under the supervision of Professor Manuel Jose Lis Arias at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia · Barcelona Tech (UPC). He has a background in polymer science and is passionate about working in the packaging domain. He is currently developing functional packaging with cyclodextrin for various applications in the food sector. In addition to his PhD research, he is also studying the properties of cyclodextrins under different conditions and systems. Previously, he worked on various bio-packaging projects during his graduation and post-graduation. He also participated in a project on wastewater remediation at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (India). With strong hands-on experience in characterization, testing, and processing techniques, he is working towards his goal of becoming a professor.

Ms. Venessa Dsouza

TUM Campus Straubing
Germany

Biography

Venessa Dsouza is a 2nd year Ph.D. candidate at the Professorship of Bioprocess Engineering at TUM Campus Straubing, Germany. She completed her Master of Science in Chemical Biotechnology at TUMCS and now continues research focused on exopolysaccharides, both fungal and bacterial, their upstream and downstream processing and upscaling. A part of her study also involves model based process design and cost analysis for industrial production of biopolymers and bi-products. During her Bachelor of Engineering in Biotechnology, at KLE Technological University, India, she worked on optimization of bacterial cellulose production, composite preparation and characterization, where she published 2 scientific papers, paving the way for her current research interest in biopolymers.

Mr. Yeh Cheng-Hao

National Taiwan University
Taiwan

Biography

Mr. Yeh Cheng-Hao is a Ph.D. student at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University. He holds a Bachelor's (2019–2023) and a Master's (2023–2024) degree in Mechanical and Materials Engineering from Tatung University.

Mr. Chris Schroder

Pegasus Materials
Netherlands

Biography

Mr. Chris Schroder is an industry expert in business, application, and polymer development with over 20 years of experience in elastomers. After earning a Bachelor's in Organic Chemistry, he focused on aligning material performance with polymer design, particularly in electronics and thermoplastic elastomers. Following roles at DSM and Zymergen, he co-founded Pegasus Materials in 2023, specializing in engineering plastics with superior performance and reduced carbon footprint.

Dr. Shu-Wei Huang

National Taitung University
Taiwan

Biography

Dr. Shu-Wei Huang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Science at National Taitung University, Taiwan, specializing in biomedical materials for treating degenerative diseases, chronic wounds, and infections. With a Ph.D. from National Taiwan University's Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering and a medical engineering background from Yang Ming University, Dr. Huang's career spans research scientist and project management roles at top institutions like Wan Fang Hospital and Taipei Veterans General Hospital. Her work advances innovative animal models for osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and orthopedic infections in mice, rats, and hamsters. Recognized with awards such as the 2023 National Innovation Award for New Bone Screw Development and the Outstanding Paper Award at Wan Fang Hospital, Dr. Huang is also celebrated in the medical device community, earning accolades from the AAOS and Medical Design. She serves as a consultant for programs like the TMU SPARK Biomedical Training Program and IRCAD’s Innovation Workshop, where she mentors young innovators. Dr. Huang is a sought-after speaker and educator, teaching biodesign and clinical translation at leading institutions to foster interdisciplinary healthcare solutions.

Ms. Ines Costa

PIEP – Centre for Innovation in Polymer Engineering, Portugal

Biography

Ms. Inês Costa holds a masters degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Porto (Portugal). Currently, she is a Principal Researcher at PIEP Centre for Innovation in Polymer Engineering, where she focuses on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Life Cycle Costing (LCC), and Carbon Footprint studies, among other topics. Her work primarily revolves around evaluating the environmental, economic, and social impacts of materials and processes, with a special emphasis on the plastic sector. She aims to support the transition towards more sustainable practices and circular economy models by identifying and promoting solutions that can reduce the environmental footprint of industrial activities. She brings strong skills in teamwork, organisation, and a continuous drive for learning and innovation to all her projects. These capabilities allow her to collaborate effectively with cross-disciplinary teams, ensuring the successful execution of complex research tasks. In addition to her work as a researcher, she is also a certified trainer in environmental education and outreach, where she focuses on sharing her knowledge and expertise to guide others towards adopting more sustainable practices in their own industries and daily lives.

Ms. Catarina Faria

PIEP – Centre for Innovation in Polymer Engineering, Portugal

Biography

Catarina Faria holds a degree in Environmental Engineering and began her career in an environmental analysis lab, where she quickly embraced new challenges. Starting with hands-on laboratory techniques, she soon expanded her role to include training and auditing, which enhanced her resilience and multitasking abilities. Currently, Catarina works as a project manager at PIEP –Centre for Innovation in Polymer Engineering, specialising in LCA and LCC studies, particularly in product development within the plastics sector. Her work focuses on evaluating the environmental impacts of innovative products and providing training on sustainable practices in the Circular Economy. These experiences have deepened her expertise in environmental analysis and sustainability while strengthening her skills in communication, analytical thinking, and teamwork.

Ms. Bruna Gabriela Mendes Machado

PIEP – Centre for Innovation in Polymer Engineering, Portugal

Biography

Ms. Bruna Machado holds a Master’s degree in Biological Engineering with a focus on Environmental Technologies from the University of Minho. Throughout her academic journey, she developed a strong passion for Environmental Management, Environmental Technologies, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and Sustainability.She is currently working as a researcher at PIEP – Centre for Innovation in Polymer Engineering, where she conducts LCA and Life Cycle Costing (LCC) studies. In this role, Bruna evaluates innovative solutions and products, comparing their environmental impact and cost-effectiveness with conventional alternatives. This position has deepened her understanding of sustainable practices and the importance of making informed decisions in engineering. Bruna is particularly skilled in performing sustainability analyses that encompass environmental, social, and economic factors. Her experience in the fields of Environment, Health, and Safety has provided her with a solid foundation in environmental management within an industrial context, enabling her to effectively address challenges. She takes pride in her excellent written and interpersonal communication skills, which are essential for collaborating on projects to promote a positive impact on the environment and society. By fostering relationships among various entities, she strives to contribute to meaningful change. Additionally, Bruna is a certified trainer, enhancing her skills and knowledge in environmental education and outreach. She is excited to continue her professional journey, utilizing her expertise to drive sustainability initiatives.

Ms. Jeyran Ghased

Seoul National University of Science and Technology, South Korea

Biography

Ms. Jeyran Ghased is a Master’s student in the Department of Environmental Engineering at Seoul National University of Science and Technology (SeoulTech), South Korea. She is currently conducting research under the supervision of Professor Hyun-Suk Oh in the Biological & Membrane Water Treatment Laboratory, which focuses on developing sustainable and carbon-neutral solutions for wastewater treatment. Her research centers on utilizing mixed microbial cultures and industrial waste streams, such as brewery wastewater, for the eco-friendly production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), particularly the copolymer PHBV. By implementing feast-famine regimes and nutrient modulation, her work aims to enhance biopolymer yield while promoting waste valorization. Jeyran is passionate about advancing circular economy approaches through innovative microbial technologies and sustainable bioprocessing solutions.

Mr. Jules Bellon

UniLaSalle Polytechnic Institute
France

Biography

Mr. Jules Bellon is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Rouen Normandie (France). His research, conducted at the Institut Polytechnique UniLaSalle, focuses on the biodegradation of biobased biodegradable plastics, particularly in the context of domestic composting and the development of this sector. Trained as an agronomy engineer, he holds both a bachelor's and a master's degree in life sciences. Initially drawn to plant sciences, he explored the impact of water stress on root development in seed legumes during his final-year internship at INRAE’s Agroecology UMR in Dijon (France). With a naturally inquisitive mind and a strong awareness of the multidisciplinary nature of environmental challenges, he chose to fully commit to the BioDPlast project, contributing to the development of sustainable solutions for the future.

Dr. Thomas Walther Schmidt

Director- Innovation at HuaFeng, China

Biography

Dr. Thomas holds an PhD in Chemistry and Material Science of the university of Wuerzburg, Germany. After a postdoc at University of Durham in UK he started his international industrial career at adidas in China, then worked many year as Innovation Director at TIGER Coatings in Austria and since 2014 he is Director of Innovation & Creation at Fujian Huafeng New Materials Co Ltd. in China. During his scientific and industrial career, he became a well-known expert on coating and printing materials and technologies. He is the creator of the HAPTIC brand with enormous success in the athletic footwear industry.

Dr. Xin Wang

Wenzhou-Kean University
China

Biography

Dr. Xin Wang earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Arkansas in 2022 and is currently an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Wenzhou-Kean University. His research focuses on utilizing advanced atomic/molecular layer deposition (ALD/MLD) techniques to enhance the energy density and cycling stability of Li-ion and Li-metal batteries. Since 2020, he has published over 15 papers in leading journals, including Nano Energy, Matter, Energy Storage Materials, Journal of Energy Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering Journal. He also serves on the editorial boards of Carbon Neutralization, Exploration and Responsive Materials.

Dr. Chadia Ihamouchen

University of Bejaia
Algeria

Biography

Dr. Chadia IHAMOUCHEN holds a Ph.D. in Process Engineering specializing in Polymer Engineering from the University of Bejaia, Algeria. She is a lecturer at the Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences (University of Bejaia, Algeria). Areas of expertise: polymer engineering, advanced polymer materials, composites and nanocomposites, vaporization and recycling. His main research activities focus on the formulation, synthesis, characterization and application of biocomposites with plant reinforcements. Durability and biodegradation studies of these biocomposites. Valorisation of marine biomass in the development of biomaterials for food packaging applications. Author of several national and international publications and communications. Active research member of the LMPA (Laboratoire des matériaux polymeres avancés) and leader of a national research project.

Mr. Shih-Heng Chen

Chang Gung Memorial Hospital
Taiwan

Biography

Shihheng Chen is a plastic and hand surgeon from Taiwan. He obtained his PhD in biomedical engineering with biomaterial research related to peripheral nerve regeneration. He also underwent two years of fellowship in Christine M. Kleinert Institute for Hand and Microsurgery. He is now working in the Division of Trauma Plastic Surgery in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, and focus on reconstruction of upper limb traumas especially peripheral nerve surgeries as well as reconstruction for rheumatoid hands and autoimmune hand diseases.

Mr. Carlos Andres Martinez Bonilla

University of Montreal
Canada

Biography

Will be updated soon...

Prof. Hanshen Li

China Electric Power Planning and Engineering Institute, China

Biography

Prof. Hanshen Li received his B.S.E. degree in Electric Power Engineering and Automation from Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), Shanghai, China, and the M.E. degree in Information, Production and Systems Engineering from Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan, and M.E. degree in Electrical Engineering from SJTU, and the Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering in North China Electric Power University (NCEPU), Beijing, China. Prof. Li has been a researcher at China Electric Power Planning and Engineering Institute (EPPEI) since 2023. His research interests include planning and operation of active distribution networks, where Li has published 50+ papers with over 200 total citations. He has been an editorial board of Journal of Energy Science and Technology since 2023, and also member of IEEE, IEEJ, CSEE and CES.

Dr. Rajiv Kumar

Professor & Dean-School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, NIILM University, India

Biography

Dr. Rajiv Kumar, M. Pharm, PhD, is a Professor and Dean at the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, NIILM University, India. With over 12 years of teaching experience, he specializes in drug delivery systems for poorly bioavailable drugs. His research focuses on pre-formulation profiling, bioavailability improvement, and the evaluation of neurological disorders through cellular studies. He has published extensively in renowned journals and has been invited as a guest speaker internationally. Dr. Kumar is also an active member of the International Society for Neurochemistry and serves on editorial boards of pharmaceutical journals.

Mr. Atmane Yahiaoui

University of Bejaia
Algeria

Biography

Mr. Atmane Yahiaoui is a PhD student and holder of a master's degree in polymer engineering at the University of Bejaia, affiliated with the Advanced Polymer Materials Laboratory, my research focuses on the development of biomaterials based on natural fillers with a view to their application in various fields such as packaging and biomedical applications, using biodegradable material.