Physical & Life Sciences

Scholars dedicating their careers to the study of living organisms and non-living systems

Gourav Sharma

Gourav Sharma

Tech whisperer for 7+ years, I sculpt raw Linux, Open Source, DevOps, and Cloud into game-changing solutions. My journey began at Red Hat, igniting minds as a trainer and examiner, then evolved into crafting practical solutions as a Solution Architect. Now, at AWS India, I'm no mere tech wizard, I'm a storyteller. I weave narratives that ignite possibilities, guiding you to embrace the transformative power of Cloud, DevOps, Microservices, and Cloud Native technologies. I speak their language fluently, navigating intricate architectures with the grace of a seasoned maestro. But my magic extends beyond code. I'm a maestro of relationships, orchestrating cross-sells and upsells that unlock hidden potential within your organization. So, tell me your tech tale. Let's rewrite the rules, where limitations are whispers and possibilities roar like thunder. Together, we'll push boundaries and build legacies in the cloud.

Tech whisperer for 7+ years, I sculpt raw Linux, Open Source, DevOps, and Cloud into game-changing solutions. My journey began at Red Hat, igniting minds as a trainer and examiner, then evolved into crafting practical solutions as a Solution Architec... Show more

Eric Shuss

Eric Shuss

With over 35 years of experience in ERP, robotics, and artificial intelligence, Eric has established a distinguished career in the technology sector. He has spent more than 20 years specializing in Axapta, Dynamics AX, and D365, demonstrating a deep understanding of these platforms. As a former COO of a high-tech manufacturing company, Eric has firsthand experience in operational leadership and strategic decision-making.

In addition to their executive roles as CEO, CIO, and CTO in various AI, professional services, and software companies, Eric has served as an industry analyst focusing on supply chain, life sciences, manufacturing, and retail. A recognized speaker and author, they have received multiple awards for their contributions to ethical AI. Currently, Eric is a board member of several AI and robotics companies, where they continue to influence the future of technology.

With over 35 years of experience in ERP, robotics, and artificial intelligence, Eric has established a distinguished career in the technology sector. He has spent more than 20 years specializing in Axapta, Dynamics AX, and D365, demonstrating a deep ... Show more

Alan Konczak

Alan Konczak

Alan is a Data Engineering Specialist and Leader with over 20 years experience working with the Microsoft Data stack across multiple sectors.

Alan is a Data Engineering Specialist and Leader with over 20 years experience working with the Microsoft Data stack across multiple sectors. Show more

Gary S Winemaster

Gary S Winemaster

Gary S. Winemaster is a seasoned executive and a leading figure in the clean energy and alternative fuel industries. An Illinois native, the CEO of NEXIO Power has played a pivotal role in advancing the company’s mission to provide sustainable, green-powered vehicles and energy solutions to the commercial vehicle sector. With decades of experience in clean energy, Gary has built a reputation for his innovative leadership approach, deep technical expertise, and commitment to sustainability.

Gary Winemaster’s career began at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, where he distinguished himself academically and athletically. As the varsity football team captain, he developed key leadership skills such as teamwork, discipline, and managing pressure. These qualities would later shape his executive career, where he consistently applied these principles to lead successful companies. His academic success and leadership on the football field laid the foundation for the drive and determination to characterize his professional life.

Building on his educational experience at Penn State, Gary’s career took him overseas to Europe, where he worked for a global glass manufacturer in Luxembourg. During his time in Europe, he played a key role in the development and execution of market strategies that led to the complete sellout of the factory’s production. This experience was an essential step in Gary’s career, allowing him to hone his strategic thinking while working in a diverse, international business environment. The global perspective and insights he gained during this time would prove invaluable as he transitioned into leadership roles within the clean energy industry.

Gary’s career in the clean energy sector began in 1989 when he founded Power Solutions International (PSI). As CEO, he led PSI to become a recognized alternative fuel engine technology leader, serving industrial and on-highway markets. Under his leadership, PSI grew significantly, expanding its product offerings and building a solid global presence. His ability to recognize emerging trends in the energy market and his commitment to innovation allowed PSI to stay ahead of its competitors. His leadership helped PSI ship over 1.5 million engines worldwide, cementing its position as a key player in the clean energy sector.

One of Gary’s standout leadership qualities is his ability to forge strategic partnerships with industry leaders. Throughout his career, he has cultivated strong relationships with major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) such as Navistar, Freightliner, and Caterpillar. These partnerships were instrumental in expanding PSI’s market share, as they enabled the company to serve a broader customer base and develop cutting-edge solutions for the alternative fuel market. Gary’s ability to build these lasting relationships is a testament to his business acumen and dedication to fostering long-term success for the companies he leads.

After retiring from PSI, Gary transitioned to his current NEXIO Power CEO role. At NEXIO, Gary has continued to focus on providing sustainable energy solutions for the commercial vehicle sector. Under his guidance, NEXIO Power has developed green-powered trucks and chassis, offering cutting-edge alternatives to traditional fuel sources. His leadership has driven the company’s growth, as he has consistently pushed for innovation and adopting sustainable energy technologies. Gary’s focus on alternative fuel solutions and his ability to navigate the evolving clean energy landscape has helped NEXIO Power maintain a leadership position in the industry.

Gary Winemaster’s commitment to sustainability is at the heart of his career. Throughout his work at PSI and NEXIO Power, he has focused on advancing technologies that reduce the environmental impact of transportation. His efforts to promote clean energy solutions have played a crucial role in the broader movement toward sustainability in the commercial vehicle sector. Gary’s work has not only helped reduce the transportation industry's carbon footprint but has also demonstrated the potential for alternative fuel technologies to drive positive change.

Gary continues to lead NEXIO Power today, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of the green energy revolution. His strategic vision, technical expertise, and commitment to sustainability continue to drive the company’s success and ensure that NEXIO Power remains a leader in developing green-powered vehicles. Gary’s leadership is shaping the future of transportation, and his work will continue to have a lasting impact on the clean energy sector for years to come.

Gary S. Winemaster’s career is a powerful example of how visionary leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to sustainability can drive significant change. His contributions to the clean energy sector, particularly in the commercial vehicle industry, have helped pave the way for a more sustainable future. As NEXIO Power continues to develop innovative green-powered solutions, Gary’s leadership will remain a key factor in shaping the industry's future.

Gary S. Winemaster is a seasoned executive and a leading figure in the clean energy and alternative fuel industries. An Illinois native, the CEO of NEXIO Power has played a pivotal role in advancing the company’s mission to provide sustainable, green... Show more

Robert Kellner

Robert Kellner

Ich studierte Diplom Physik an der Universität Bayreuth, promovierte im Bereich der STED-Mikroskopie am MPI für biophysikalische Chemie in Göttingen und an der Universität Heidelberg. Nach acht-jähriger Industrietätigkeit bin ich seit 2016 Professor für Physik an der Technischen Hochschule Rosenheim. Ich verwende aktivierende Lehrmethoden, synchrone und asynchrone digitale Lehre und bin darin interessiert den Lernerfolg der Studierenden immer weiter zu verbessern.

Ich studierte Diplom Physik an der Universität Bayreuth, promovierte im Bereich der STED-Mikroskopie am MPI für biophysikalische Chemie in Göttingen und an der Universität Heidelberg. Nach acht-jähriger Industrietätigkeit bin ich seit 2016 Professor ... Show more

Angel Paredes Barato

Angel Paredes Barato

Passionate Engineering Manager at Datadog, mentoring aspiring engineers and advocating for the importance of soft skills in achieving success. Sometimes I like to define myself as "proud holistic hobbyist".

Passionate Engineering Manager at Datadog, mentoring aspiring engineers and advocating for the importance of soft skills in achieving success. Sometimes I like to define myself as "proud holistic hobbyist". Show more

Julie Anderson

Julie Anderson

Julie Anderson is one of the nation’s top experts on the Brain Personality Connection and creator of the Brain Personality Assessment. She is an international professional speaker; corporate keynote; business/communication/relationship consultant. For over 17 years she has been using neuroscience and neuropsychology to ignite corporate leaders, teams, and individuals to fire up their brains. The information she shares will assist listeners to accelerate their success. Her background includes Natural Health, Psychology, Human Resource Development, Leadership Development, Psychoneuroimmunology, and Stress Management. She holds certificates in Neuroscience of Leadership, Psychological First Aid, Positive Psychology, Body Language, HR Development, and Brain Health.

Julie Anderson is one of the nation’s top experts on the Brain Personality Connection and creator of the Brain Personality Assessment. She is an international professional speaker; corporate keynote; business/communication/relationship consultant. Fo... Show more

Reshma Narayanan Kutty

Reshma Narayanan Kutty

Reshma Narayanan Kutty is a Product Manager at Sitecore with a focus on Sitecore Connect. With over 8 years of experience in the Tech industry, she leverages her extensive experience in product management and a strong technical background to drive innovation in the digital experience platforms. Reshma is based in Dublin, Ireland.

Reshma Narayanan Kutty is a Product Manager at Sitecore with a focus on Sitecore Connect. With over 8 years of experience in the Tech industry, she leverages her extensive experience in product management and a strong technical background to drive in... Show more

Klaus Jürgen Folz

Klaus Jürgen Folz

• Bachelors in mechanical engineering
• More than 5 years of experience with Power BI, Python and SQL
• Lead developer of Measure Killer, the external tool for Power BI
• Microsoft certified Power BI-Data Analyst (PL-300)

• Bachelors in mechanical engineering • More than 5 years of experience with Power BI, Python and SQL • Lead developer of Measure Killer, the external tool for Power BI • Microsoft certified Power BI-Data Analyst (PL-300) Show more

Bjoern Oleson

Bjoern Oleson

Dr. Bjoern E. Oleson is an accomplished IT professional with more than twenty years of experience in Application Life-Cycle Management (ALM). He currently serves as a Principal IT Consultant at Siemens Healthineers, where he possesses in-depth expertise in Azure DevOps, GitHub, and Code LLMS. Bjoern's qualifications include degrees in Computer Science and Biology, attesting to his extensive knowledge and versatility in the fields of science and technology. In addition, Bjoern is deeply interested in the Internet of Things and is a strong advocate of the transformative power of Generative AI. He is always enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge and experiences with others.

Dr. Bjoern E. Oleson is an accomplished IT professional with more than twenty years of experience in Application Life-Cycle Management (ALM). He currently serves as a Principal IT Consultant at Siemens Healthineers, where he possesses in-depth expert... Show more

Chike Eduputa

Chike Eduputa

Chike is an expert in business and technology strategy, with over a decade of experience leading global, hybrid teams to deliver large-scale, high-value transformation programmes. He combines lean agile and design thinking to deliver results on client projects across multiple sectors. Chike advises business leaders on key technology trends, helps translate user needs into a bold vision and strategy for change, designs new business propositions, and defines a solutions portfolio and roadmap. He is passionate about solving complex challenges using innovative digital and data technologies. As an intrapreneur, he leads the Capgemini Invent UK Business Apps and Low Code No Code team.

Qualifications
Cambridge Judge Business School | Digital Innovation & Transformation
Imperial College Business School | MSc International Health Management
Kings College London | BSc Biomedical Sciences

Certifications & Accreditations
Microsoft Certified Power Platform Functional Consultant Associate
Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals
SAFe Agilist & Scrum Master

Chike is an expert in business and technology strategy, with over a decade of experience leading global, hybrid teams to deliver large-scale, high-value transformation programmes. He combines lean agile and design thinking to deliver results on clien... Show more

Dread One

Dread One

Founder of VYBZ ( NFT project showcasing true community spirit )
Founder of SYS AMA ( Web3 Vetting Show )
Just a guy who knows how to get product to market within the WEB3 Space

Founder of VYBZ ( NFT project showcasing true community spirit ) Founder of SYS AMA ( Web3 Vetting Show ) Just a guy who knows how to get product to market within the WEB3 Space Show more

Nkpozi Marcel

Nkpozi Marcel

A graduate of Electrical Engineering with 5+ years of professional experience in flutter. I am passionate about the health and energy sector and believe technology is the key to realizing these aspirations and making a difference in both areas. Beyond my professional endeavors, I enjoy technical debates with peers, volunteering, reading, and playing football, and can be described more from the meaning of my favorite quote: UMUNTU NGUMUNTU NGABANTU

A graduate of Electrical Engineering with 5+ years of professional experience in flutter. I am passionate about the health and energy sector and believe technology is the key to realizing these aspirations and making a difference in both areas. Beyon... Show more

Joe Falcone

Joe Falcone

Joe brings a unique and diverse skillset, honed across startup and enterprise landscapes. His extensive experience spans operations, digital strategy, change management, communications, commercial and medical pharmaceutical marketing and content operations and IT. Known for his consultative approach, Joe excels at problem solving and relationship building to drive business outcomes.

In his startup experience, Joe has helped transform two companies by establishing robust processes and governance enabling rapid growth. From 2010-2024 at Bristol Myers Squibb, he led global, cross-functional initiatives including outsourcing creative production, digital transformation for Medical Affairs, GDPR remediation for all of Worldwide Commercialization, enterprise software implementations, integration of acquired Turning Point Therapeutics, and enterprise Modular Content Strategy rollout. All of these initiatives were multi-year, global rollouts and his multifaceted role covered business and technology ownership, vendor selection and management, change management and communications as well as business process and training lead.

Joe has spoken at several industry events such as DIA (Drug Information Association), Panagora Pharma CX Summit & Pharma CX Tech Summit, Veeva Summit, Healthcare Businesswomen's Association (HBA), phactMI & EndPoint MI-Tech Forum, Customer Contact Week (CCW), and a variety of Omnichannel marketing focused events. In addition to his speaking appearances, Joe has contributed to various online knowledge sharing communities, hosted workshops, contributed to articles and has appeared as a guest on podcasts.

Joe brings a unique and diverse skillset, honed across startup and enterprise landscapes. His extensive experience spans operations, digital strategy, change management, communications, commercial and medical pharmaceutical marketing and content oper... Show more

Nida Sahar

Nida Sahar

Cloud & AI Technologist | Open Source Contributor | Innovator & Mentor

Nida Sahar Rafee is a seasoned technologist with extensive experience in cloud computing, AI, OpenStack, and large-scale distributed systems. She has worked on core backend infrastructure for Oracle Cloud (OCI), contributed to OpenStack, and played a pivotal role in developing a unified interface for multi-datacenter monitoring at EMC2 and HP.

With 30+ awards for innovation and customer success, Nida has a track record of solving complex technical challenges. She is also a patent holder, a published author in Springer, and an advocate for women in technology, mentoring for Google Summer of Code and Google Code-in under AnitaB.org’s Systers community.

Beyond her corporate contributions, she has spoken at HP TechCon (Florida, 2009) and other industry events on topics ranging from GP GPU in servers to effective log management. A passionate open-source contributor and poet, she was the 1st runner-up in Source Code Poetry, blending creativity with technology.

Nida believes in redefining possibilities through innovation, mentorship, and community-driven impact.

Cloud & AI Technologist | Open Source Contributor | Innovator & Mentor Nida Sahar Rafee is a seasoned technologist with extensive experience in cloud computing, AI, OpenStack, and large-scale distributed systems. She has worked on core backend inf... Show more

Fernando Acosta

Fernando Acosta

MSc Industrial Engineer specialized in Data Analytics and Business Intelligence.
Extensive experience in data modelling, data management and data modernization.
Previous experience in Formula 1 as Control Systems / Digital Twin Specialist.
15+ years experience in Automotive, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, Insurance, Banking and Consulting services.
Fernando is based in Cognizant UK, London

MSc Industrial Engineer specialized in Data Analytics and Business Intelligence. Extensive experience in data modelling, data management and data modernization. Previous experience in Formula 1 as Control Systems / Digital Twin Specialist. 15+ yea... Show more

Kelvin Ngware

Kelvin Ngware

Kelvin Ngware is a Technical Consultant based in Nairobi Kenya. He is passionate about Data Security and writes blogs(kevoh.ninja), deliver talks and workshops on how to secure data using Microsoft's Security and Compliance solutions such as Microsoft Purview, Microsoft Defender and Microsoft Entra ID.
He is also passionate about knowledge sharing where he is part of the team running the Azure Kenya User Group community to share knowledge on different Microsoft technologies.

Kelvin Ngware is a Technical Consultant based in Nairobi Kenya. He is passionate about Data Security and writes blogs(kevoh.ninja), deliver talks and workshops on how to secure data using Microsoft's Security and Compliance solutions such as Microsof... Show more

Pavan Vemuri

Pavan Vemuri

I am currently the Director of Product Engineering at SDVerse. I have extensive experience in MLOps, cloud computing, and machine learning applications. Previously, I technically led the Mach1ML platform at Ford Motor Company, focusing on generative AI initiatives and LLM-based applications. My expertise includes architecting and building sophisticated AI/ML systems, optimizing MLOps platforms, and integrating advanced machine learning models with deployment frameworks.

I am currently the Director of Product Engineering at SDVerse. I have extensive experience in MLOps, cloud computing, and machine learning applications. Previously, I technically led the Mach1ML platform at Ford Motor Company, focusing on generative ... Show more

Kevin De Pree

Kevin De Pree

A skilled consultant and technical strategist, Kevin De Pree is a Vice President at Rand Group, with over 30 years’ experience leading global ERP and CRM projects and teams. Kevin has a unique background in both business management and IT systems consulting and sales, which allows him to provide a holistic understanding of how different systems and processes work together. He is able to paint the big picture for clients, enabling them to completely transform their operations with fully optimized technology solutions that meet their business needs.

A skilled consultant and technical strategist, Kevin De Pree is a Vice President at Rand Group, with over 30 years’ experience leading global ERP and CRM projects and teams. Kevin has a unique background in both business management and IT systems con... Show more

Aldo D'Aquino

Aldo D'Aquino

Aldo is a passionate T-shaped engineer fueled by curiosity and a zest for challenges. Naturally positive-minded, he loves learning new things and trying out new technologies. He enjoys mentoring and advocates for honest feedback. Living the dream in Tuscany, thanks to remote work.

Aldo is a passionate T-shaped engineer fueled by curiosity and a zest for challenges. Naturally positive-minded, he loves learning new things and trying out new technologies. He enjoys mentoring and advocates for honest feedback. Living the dream in ... Show more

Paul Barrett

Paul Barrett

Paul is an agile, executive, and leadership coach and educator with nearly 20 years of experience working across a wide range of industries. He has a passionate focus on the Agile Values of Individuals and Interactions over the Processes and Tools.

His passion is people and he is a frequent conference speaker, having spoken on topics of transformational leadership, relationship building, and psychological safety.

Paul is an agile, executive, and leadership coach and educator with nearly 20 years of experience working across a wide range of industries. He has a passionate focus on the Agile Values of Individuals and Interactions over the Processes and Tools. ... Show more

Saurabh Aggarwal

Saurabh Aggarwal

Saurabh Aggarwal is a Senior Manager & Principal Data Scientist at a major software company based in Silicon Valley, with over 15 years of expertise in data science, machine learning, and AI.

A seasoned keynote speaker and cloud solutions architect, he leads teams that deliver impactful insights and AI-driven solutions for developer ecosystems. Saurabh is a Fulbright scholar, with multiple research publications, and holds a master's degree with distinction from San Jose State University. His work bridges cutting-edge research and practical application, driving innovation in platform services.

Saurabh Aggarwal is a Senior Manager & Principal Data Scientist at a major software company based in Silicon Valley, with over 15 years of expertise in data science, machine learning, and AI. A seasoned keynote speaker and cloud solutions archite... Show more

Phil Ewels

Phil Ewels

Phil Ewels is Product Manager for Open Source at Seqera. He holds a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Cambridge, UK.

Before joining Seqera in 2022, Phil worked at the National Genomics Infrastructure (NGI) at SciLifeLab in Stockholm, Sweden. He and his team focussed on developing and scaling up new lab protocols and bioinformatics solutions. This involved developing new analysis pipelines that could scale to very high volumes whilst adhering to high standards of reproducibility and reusability. It was through this work that Phil became involved in the Nextflow project and eventually co-founded the nf-core community.

Phil’s career has spanned many disciplines from lab work and bioinformatics research in epigenetics, through to software development and community engagement. He is passionate about open-source software and has a soft spot for tools with a focus on user-friendliness. He is the author of MultiQC, SRA-Explorer, QCFail.com, and several other pet projects.

Phil Ewels is Product Manager for Open Source at Seqera. He holds a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Cambridge, UK. Before joining Seqera in 2022, Phil worked at the National Genomics Infrastructure (NGI) at SciLifeLab in Stockholm,... Show more

Sam Kabert

Sam Kabert

Sam Kabert is a successful serial entrepreneur turned spiritual seeker. He is known for his ability to put together teams to execute the vision. He is the Author of the #1 Bestselling book SOUL/Life Balance, Founder of SwagWorx & Clone Yourself University, and hosts the Soul Seekr Podcast. Despite all of Sam’s ventures and business success and being recognized as one of Silicon Valley’s “40 Under 40” at just age 31 years old and “Rising Star” in the promotional products industry, he soon recognized that something was missing. Sam realized that despite his success, he was unhappy. This understanding catapulted him on his most recent exploration of his life’s purpose.

He is on a mission to bridge the gap between the way we conduct ourselves in business, mindful practices, how we communicate with everyone, especially oneself, all through prioritizing psychological safety and mental health first.

Sam Kabert is a successful serial entrepreneur turned spiritual seeker. He is known for his ability to put together teams to execute the vision. He is the Author of the #1 Bestselling book SOUL/Life Balance, Founder of SwagWorx & Clone Yourself Unive... Show more

Bartosz Lysakowski

Bartosz Lysakowski

Studied Forensic Science and Engineering at BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg. Afterwards teaching methods of forensic biological analysis, 3D printing and drones. For several years a co-worker at the Cottbus Zoo in the educational department. Since 2023 drone pilot and the member of the EXPAND+ER project at the BTU Cottbus

Studied Forensic Science and Engineering at BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg. Afterwards teaching methods of forensic biological analysis, 3D printing and drones. For several years a co-worker at the Cottbus Zoo in the educational department. Since 2023 dron... Show more

David Laribee

David Laribee

David Laribee is a coach, developer, teacher, international speaker, and co-founder of Nerd/Noir. Over the last 25+ years, he’s helped develop digital product development teams and organizations in a wide variety of industries, including banking, retail, technology, insurance, defense, and higher education.

David has been at the forefront of several movements in software development. He helped create the dojo approach to immersive learning, popularize lean and kanban methods, and introduce product thinking to the agile landscape. As an engineering leader, David was an early adopter and advocate of eXtreme Programming, Kanban and Domain Driven Design. David is a former Microsoft MVP in both Solutions Architecture and C# and co-founder of the ALT.NET movement, which has spawned dozens of user groups across the globe dedicated to open-source and modern engineering practices.

Before founding Nerd/Noir with his wife, Alexandra West, David coached the product development teams at VersionOne, a market leader in agile project management tools. These days you can find him working across several active dojos, collaborating with leaders on strategy, and helping to build capable coaching teams at Fortune 500 firms and hypergrowth startups. David started work life at the early age of five on a farm in Upstate NY — an upbringing that accounts for his lead-from-the-front approach, appreciation for small/cross-disciplinary teams, and appreciation for authentic maple syrup.

David Laribee is a coach, developer, teacher, international speaker, and co-founder of Nerd/Noir. Over the last 25+ years, he’s helped develop digital product development teams and organizations in a wide variety of industries, including banking, ret... Show more

Akito Kawahara

Akito Kawahara

Akito Kawahara is the Director of the McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, a Curator at the Florida Museum of Natural History, and a Professor at the University of Florida. In 2023, he became the Director of the McGuire Center, which houses one of the world's most extensive collections of butterflies and moths, with over 10 million specimens. In this role, he is responsible for guiding the center’s research, fostering public education, and securing donor funding to support ongoing scientific studies and conservation efforts.

Kawahara’s research focuses on the Lepidoptera order, which encompasses approximately 160,000 species of butterflies and moths. His primary areas of interest include genetics, evolution, and behavior, focusing on how moths use ultrasound to evade predation from bats. This remarkable defensive mechanism is one of the key areas of study in his lab, as it offers insight into the complex survival strategies that have evolved over millions of years.

In addition to predator-prey interactions, Kawahara’s research team explores how other behavioral traits, such as the time of day at which insects are active, influence evolutionary patterns. By combining phylogenetic analysis, behavioral science, and genomics, he aims to answer critical questions about insect diversity, including why so many species exist and how they have adapted to different ecological environments. His lab also investigates the effects of human activity, such as habitat destruction and artificial light pollution, on the behavior and survival of Lepidoptera.

Kawahara has received numerous accolades for his work in the field of entomology. He was awarded the John Henry Comstock Award by the Entomological Society of America and the Alexander B. Klots Award by the Lepidopterists’ Society. He has secured over $13 million in research funding, leading over 20 significant projects with support from organizations like the National Science Foundation. These grants have enabled his lab to conduct pioneering research in Lepidoptera evolution, predator-prey interactions, and the broader ecological impact of moths and butterflies.

Kawahara is a prolific scholar who has authored over 200 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals, including Science and PNAS. His publications cover a wide range of topics, from the evolution of Lepidoptera to moths' use of acoustic signals to avoid predators. His work has expanded our understanding of how moths and butterflies interact with their environment and predators, offering insights into the complex evolutionary processes that shape their behavior.

Kawahara’s expertise has also led to several media appearances. He has been featured in documentaries such as PBS’s American Spring Live and Nature’s Sex, Lies, and Butterflies and has participated in radio shows like NPR’s Science Friday. His research has been discussed in leading publications such as The Washington Post and Smithsonian Magazine. In his TED Talk, "Why You Can Thank a Moth," he highlights the often-overlooked contributions of moths to pollination, silk production, and even technological advancements.

In addition to his research, Kawahara is dedicated to inspiring future scientists. He regularly speaks to schoolchildren, sharing his passion for butterflies and moths and encouraging young people to explore the natural world.

Kawahara earned his undergraduate degree in Entomology from Cornell University and a Master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Maryland. His doctoral research focused on the phylogenetics of leaf-mining moths.

Outside of his professional work, Kawahara enjoys playing sports like basketball and tennis and spending time with his two children. He is bilingual in Japanese and English and has additional proficiency in Spanish and Chinese. Having been raised in New York City and Tokyo, his bicultural background has significantly influenced his personal and professional life.

Akito Kawahara is the Director of the McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, a Curator at the Florida Museum of Natural History, and a Professor at the University of Florida. In 2023, he became the Director of the McGuire Center, which hous... Show more

Alex Fernandez

Alex Fernandez

I live in Madrid with my family. I have lots of interests, and are about equally unskilled at them:

Drawing and art.
Biology.
Linguistics.
Physics.
Computers.

My day job involves computers, where I have worked for 25 years inside the tech industry. I don't have a night job.

I live in Madrid with my family. I have lots of interests, and are about equally unskilled at them: Drawing and art. Biology. Linguistics. Physics. Computers. My day job involves computers, where I have worked for 25 yea... Show more

Marinella Favot

Marinella Favot

Economic Expert in the following topics: Circular Economy, Extended Producer Responsibility, E-waste, Green patents, Critical Raw Materials, Rare Earth Elements, Glass Reinforce Plastic and end-of-life boats.
She has published several articles and reports on these topics, and she has taught at Mater level classes. She is the scientific responsible for various research projects in her research centre.

Economic Expert in the following topics: Circular Economy, Extended Producer Responsibility, E-waste, Green patents, Critical Raw Materials, Rare Earth Elements, Glass Reinforce Plastic and end-of-life boats. She has published several articles and ... Show more

Raphaela Seeger

Raphaela Seeger

Platform Engineer at Puzzle ITC with a passion for CI/CD, automation, and cloud-native technologies.
I am committed to create scalable and secure software delivery pipelines for our customers. I love to implement modern, cutting-edge technologies such as Kubernetes and Dagger are driving the current innovations in software development and deployment processes.

Platform Engineer at Puzzle ITC with a passion for CI/CD, automation, and cloud-native technologies. I am committed to create scalable and secure software delivery pipelines for our customers. I love to implement modern, cutting-edge technologies su... Show more

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