Work with thought leaders and academic experts from North Carolina State University

Wanida Lewis, Ph.D.

Glassboro, New Jersey, United States of America
Ph.D. Food Scientist Consultant in Research and Policy Development
Education

North Carolina State University

Ph.D., Food Science / May, 2013

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America

North Carolina Central University

M.S., Chemistry (Analytical) / May, 2008

Durham, North Carolina, United States of America

Saint Augustine's University

B.S., Chemistry / May, 2005

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
Research Expertise
Nutrition and Dietetics
Food Science
Analytical Chemistry
Entrepreneurship
About
Dr. Wanida Lewis is a highly educated and experienced food scientist with a passion for promoting sustainable food systems and improving global food security. She received her Ph.D. in Food Science from North Carolina State University in 2013, where she focused on the development of functional foods using plant-based ingredients. Prior to her Ph.D., she earned her M.S. in Chemistry (Analytical) from North Carolina Central University in 2008 and her B.S. in Chemistry from Saint Augustine's University in 2005. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Dr. Lewis has held various positions in both the private and public sectors, demonstrating her expertise in food science, program management, and international development. She is the Managing Director and Founder of Crescendo Foods, a company that provides food science consulting services to food businesses. She also serves as an Acceleration Services Advisor Consultant at KAIZEN COMPANY START-UP, where she advises start-ups on product development, supply chain management, and marketing strategies. In addition to her work in the private sector, Dr. Lewis has also been involved in various non-profit organizations, including ASASE Foundation and Environment360. She has also worked with the U.S. Department of State as a Foreign Affairs Officer and AAAS Policy Fellow, where she provided scientific advice and support for international food security initiatives. She also served as a Senior Economic Program Advisor for the Secretary's Office of Global Women's Issues at Tuvli LLC, where she focused on promoting economic empowerment for women through sustainable agriculture and food systems. Dr. Lewis's extensive experience in the food industry and her passion for promoting sustainable and equitable food systems make her a highly sought-after expert in her field. She continues to use her knowledge and expertise to drive positive change in the food industry and contribute to global efforts towards achieving food security for all.

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Fábio Medeiros

Charlotte, North Carolina, United States of America
Postdoctoral Research Scholar at North Carolina State University with 15 years of research experience in food processing and low carbon fuels.
Experience

North Carolina State University

Postdoctoral Research Scholar / March, 2023Present

Research Expertise
Food processing
food microbiology
E-fuels
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology
Biotechnology
And 8 more
About
Postdoctoral Research Scholar at the Plants for Human Health Institute from the North Carolina State University working on food ingredient engineering, focused on the development of novel nutrient-dense food ingredients from alternative sources (altenative proteins and repurposing wastes from the food industry). PhD in Chemical Engineering from the Université de Sherbrooke (Sherbrooke, QC, Canada). Graduated in Chemical Engineering (bachelor and master degree) at the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN, Brazil) with an one-year exchange period at the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow, UK). Extensive background and R&D experience on food science and technology (especially, food microbiology, food processing, food bioactive compounds, drying and encapsulation technologies), bioprocess and valorization of agri-industrial residues for new products development and bio-based food packaging functionalization. Solid R&D experience in themes related to CO2 conversion, renewable energy, low-carbon fuels, e-fuels and Power-to-X technologies.

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Samiul Amin

Professor of Practice at University of Miami Professor of Practice and Director ECAP at University of Miami with expertise in Formulation Design, Rheology, Biosurfactants, Biopolymers and Materials Science.
Education

North Carolina State University

PhD, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering / July, 2002

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America

Johns Hopkins University

M.S, Chemical Engineering / January, 1997

Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

B.S, chemical engineering / May, 1995

New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
Research Expertise
Complex Fluids
Rheology
Microrheology
Protein Aggregation
Colloid and Surface Chemistry
And 33 more
About
With over 22 years of industry and academic experience in SoftMatter, colloids, and complex fluids, I am a Professor of Practice and Director of the Engineering Corporate Affiliate Program (ECAP) at the University of Miami. My mission is to bridge the gap between engineering education/research and industry needs, and to foster a culture of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship among students and faculty. I am also co-founder of FastFormulator a Formulation Design Lab developing novel sustainable formulations for a wide range of industries utilizing an integrated approach of High THroughput FOrmulation Automation/Advanced CHaracterization/AI-ML and based on deep colloid science/complex fluids insights. <br> As a leading researcher and consultant in formulation design and performance optimization of consumer, cosmetic, biopharmaceutical, and homecare products, I collaborate with multiple global companies and organizations to develop novel and sustainable solutions based on high throughput formulation, AI/ML, advanced characterization and novel sustainable materials. I also teach courses in polymers, surfactants, emulsions, rheology, tribology, and innovation management, and chair international conferences in my field of expertise. I am passionate about advancing the science and engineering of complex fluids and cosmetics, and sharing my knowledge and insights with the next generation of engineers and innovators.

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Ishab Poudel

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
Dynamic and knowledgeable poultry scientist and veterinarian with extensive experience in poultry nutrition, disease and management.
Experience

Mississippi State University

Research assitant / January, 2019August, 2023

• Designing and implementing poultry nutrition trials, conducting research, disseminating results, student guidance.

North Carolina State University

Post Doctoral Research Scholar / OctoberPresent

Proficient in using Artificial Intelligence and Large Language models to increase efficiency in research. My role included writing research proposal and designing experimental in poultry nutrition, management, utilizing Artificial intelligence and machine learning.• Analyze and interpret results using statistical tools like Microsoft Excel, GraphPad, SAS, Python, and R programming.

Heifer International

Project coordinator / April, 2015July, 2018

• Conducting training for veterinary doctors. Facilitating postmortem examinations in pigs. • Coordination with different stallholders including government veterinary doctors, training and mobilizing veterinary technicians.

Research Expertise
Poultry
Laying hen
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
Infectious Diseases
Insect Science
And 2 more
About
Ishab Poudel is a veterinarian with a Ph.D. in Poultry Nutrition, showcasing a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture and disease control. With extensive research experience, including the development of nutritional strategies to enhance livestock sustainability and reduce environmental impacts.

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Adelaide Rhodes, Ph.D.

Senior Bioinformatics Lead Scientist
Education

Johns Hopkins University

Biotechnology & Bioinformatics / May, 2012

Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America

North Carolina State University

Ph.D., Zoology / May, 2004

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America

Florida Institute of Technology

M.S., Oceanography / December, 1992

Melbourne, Florida, United States of America

University of Virginia

B.A., Physics / August, 1990

Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
Research Expertise
Comparative Genomics
Biodiversity
Theoretical Evolutionary Genomics
Computational Biology
Deep Sea Benthic Ecology
About
I am an experienced, highly motivated technology professional with experience in a variety of research environment technologies and infrastructure on-prem and in the cloud. I have held many roles in leading the delivery of programs and projects in advancing the Informatics & Technology (I&T) capabilities for genomics focused organizations. As a researcher, I have more than 20 years of experience in analyzing "big data” at the molecular, organismal, and ecological scales for environmental, metagenomic and human health data. I use advanced analytical tools and custom scripts in R, Python, MATLAB, UNIX, and SAS to interrogate data sets for meaningful insights. I enjoy speeding up data analysis and discovery implementing test driven development of bioinformatics workflows on HPC and commercial cloud computing resources (AWS and GCP and custom cloud platforms).

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Sicun Fan

Georgia
Metagenomics, NGS, and Biotechnology Expert with extensive experience in foodborne pathogens, probiotics research, and related domains.
Education

North Carolina State University

PhD, major, Food Science / October, 2022

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America

North Carolina State University

PhD, minor, Biotechnology / October, 2022

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
Experience

USDA

Postdoctoral Fellow / October, 2022December, 2024

1.Evaluation of the bacterial metagenome in retail poultry to improve pathogen control strategies. 2.Quantification of Salmonella and Campylobacter during poultry processing.

Bristol Myers Squibb

Upstream Process Development Intern / May, 2022August, 2022

Developed a MinION sequencing platform to identify integration hotspots in CHO cells.

North Carolina State University

Teaching Assistant / August, 2020May, 2022

Supervised 60 students in: (1)Virus Biotechnology and (2) Core Technologies in Molecular & Cellular Biology.

North Carolina State University

HACCP Training Extension Assistant / April, 2019July, 2022

Guided over 1,700 trainees from 500+ companies in developing and implementing HACCP plans.

Panaceutics

Product Development Intern / May, 2020August, 2020

Led seven nutrition projects across marketing, product development, production, and shelf-life extension.

Syngenta

Product Safety Intern / May, 2019August, 2019

Established a database for probabilistic exposure modeling of occupational risk assessment in seed treatment.

Novozymes

Technical Service Intern / May, 2018August, 2018

Led nine enzyme application projects in food and beverage.

Research Expertise
metagenomics
NGS
biotechnology
molecular biology
food safety
And 6 more
About
I bring **years of experience in experimental design, wet lab, data analysis, and problem-solving** across both **academic** and **industry settings**. My expertise extends to **project planning and budget management**, ensuring efficient execution of research and development initiatives. I am passionate about **leveraging cutting-edge technologies** to address complex challenges in **microbiology, food safety, and health sciences**. Please feel free to connect to discuss how my skills in **molecular biology, biotechnology, and food safety** can contribute to driving innovation and success in your organization!

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Dr. Stacey Frederick

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
Duke University
Education

North Carolina State University

Ph.D., Technology Management / May, 2010

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America

North Carolina State University

B.S., Textile Management / May, 2006

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
Research Expertise
Value chain analysis
About
Industry and market research analyst, policy advisor, and strategy developer. Over 18 years of experience as an independent consultant and at the former Global Value Chain Center at Duke University. I have worked on projects in over 25 different industries including apparel, textiles, electronics/electrical, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, information technology (IT)/business process outsourcing, digital services, automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, nanotechnology-enabled products, furniture/wood, chemicals, manganese, fisheries, tourism, and various agribusiness industries. As a research consultant, I write custom reports for international agencies, country governments, and firms that provide an in-depth analysis of the global, regional, and/or local landscape of industries and sectors. As a strategy consultant, I provide advisory services that identify where opportunities exist within the value chain and provide recommendations on how a country can improve competitiveness and overcome barriers. This involves extensive secondary research and primary fieldwork. I’ve worked on projects across five continents and conducted fieldwork in over 40 countries. I have also developed and led several training workshops on global value chain analysis.

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Hamna Iqbal

Ph.D. in Physics with research background in semiconductor materials and electronic devices.
Experience

Wake Forest University

Graduate Research Assistant / August, 2017May, 2021

• Fabricated and electrically characterized thin film and single-crystal organic field-effect transistors • Developed a quick and reliable diagnostic tool to screen for potential degradation pathways in organic field-effect transistors by accessing the trap density of states • Fabricated operationally and environmentally stable small molecule and polymer field-effect transistors with remarkable threshold voltage stability in ambient air • Mentored undergraduate and graduate students

Wake Forest University

Graduate Teaching Assistnat / August, 2016May, 2017

• Instructed introductory physics laboratory course (PHY 110L), Fall 2016 • Conducted tutorial sessions for undergraduate physics majors, Fall 2016 • Graded tutorials, Electronics lab (PHY 230L), Spring 2017

North Carolina State University

Postdoctoral Research Scholar / August, 2021July, 2023

• Fabricated and characterized organic light-emitting diodes and organic photodiodes • Developed a novel method of fabricating transparent privacy organic light-emitting diodes • Mentored graduate and undergraduate students

Part-time Lecturer / August, 2022December, 2022

• Instructed Microelectronic materials course (MSE 460), Fall 2022 • Instructed Microelectronic materials science and technology course (MSE 560), Fall 2022

University of Toledo

Graduate Research Assistant / August, 2012July, 2014

• Used spectroscopic ellipsometry to study the optical properties of various materials and solar cell devices over a wide spectral range (0.035 – 6.5 eV: 33 µm – 190 nm) • Fabricated and characterized amorphous silicon single junction solar cells in the n-i-p/p-i-n configurations • Mentored undergraduate and graduate students

Ford Motor Company

Intern / August, 2014December, 2014

• Evaluated the manufacturing viability of scratch and UV-resistant coatings for automotive body parts • Used Infrared spectroscopic ellipsometry to detect changes in the optical properties of polycarbonate samples infused with UV-absorbing molecules • Developed a new time-saving and cost-effective ellipsometry data analysis technique to determine the penetration depth of infused molecules into polycarbonate samples

Research Expertise
Organic electronics
Materials Chemistry
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanics of Materials
Condensed Matter Physics
And 11 more
About
Hamna Iqbal is a highly educated and experienced physicist with a passion for research and teaching. She completed her Ph.D. in Physics from Wake Forest University in 2021, where she focused on the study of organic semiconductor materials and electronic devices. Prior to that, she obtained her MSc in Physics from the University of Toledo in 2014 and her B.Sc. in Physics from the University of Peradeniya in 2011. Throughout her academic career, Hamna has gained valuable research experience as a Graduate Research Assistant at Wake Forest University and the University of Toledo. She has also taught undergraduate and graduate students as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Wake Forest University and a Part-time Lecturer at North Carolina State University. After completing her Ph.D., Hamna continued to expand her research portfolio as a Postdoctoral Research Scholar at North Carolina State University. She has also gained practical industry experience through an internship at Ford Motor Company. With her strong academic background and diverse research experience, Hamna is a dedicated and knowledgeable physicist who is driven to make meaningful contributions to the field. She is excited to continue her research and teaching career in the years to come.

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Aaron Lando

Applied Materials Scientist Translating Research into Scalable Technologies with Experience across National Labs and Start-Ups
Education

North Carolina State University

B.S, Material Science and Engineering / May, 2019

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
Research Expertise
Energy Storage and Generation
Photovoltaics
Lithium Batteries
Unitized Regenerative Fuel Cells
Material Development
About
The invisible world provides endless potential for solutions and has captivated my imagination: The simplicity and complexity of engineering bandgaps, mechanical performance trend setters of high entropy alloys, and the countless compatibility criteria required for functioning electrochemical systems. This fascination for unseen structures naturally steered me toward materials science and engineering, where every angstrom level insight can unlock the next generation of solutions needed for today’s challenges. Today, I am a materials scientist and engineer with over six years of experience in advanced material innovation, managing scale up efforts with multi-disciplined teams, and material characterization and investigation. At Johnson Energy Storage (JES), I managed a team of three engineers and two technicians focusing on advancing solid-state battery technology. From materials formulation and synthesis to process optimization and scale-up, we managed to complete breakthroughs in cathode, anode and solid state electrolyte performance and manufacturability. Before JES, I conducted applied materials research at The Savannah River National Laboratory across multiple disciplines. I contributed to catalyst development, plastic waste conversion, and hydrogen generation and storage projects. Across both roles, I’ve honed my ability to take complex, experimental concepts and translate them into scalable, result-oriented solutions that align with safety, performance, and various technical requirements. My background spans solid-state electrolyte formulation, process development for unique materials systems, and advanced material characterization (EIS, CTTA, CV, SEM, FTIR, DSC, TGA, XRD). I’ve contributed to peer-reviewed publications, earned DOE “Q” clearance, and led initiatives to strengthen lab safety culture and technical collaboration. I’m hands-on with materials synthesis, and scaling experimental processes into high-throughput, high-performance systems. I’m equally comfortable collaborating across research teams or translating complex data into technical presentations that influence decision-making and innovation strategy. Looking ahead, I am motivated by opportunities to translate material discovery, process development and optimization into scalable solutions that deliver robust performance. As my career progresses, I aim to continue working on cutting-edge technologies while expanding the breadth of my expertise across various industries, strengthening my technical foundation and ability to deliver solutions that meet real world operational demands.

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Alyssa Lynch, B.S.

Ph.D. student in the biological sciences with an interest in understanding how aquatic insects select for egg oviposition habitat in NC streams.
Education

North Carolina State University

Ph.D., Biological Sciences / May, 2027 (anticipated)

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America

UNC Asheville

B.S., Biology / August, 2023

Asheville, North Carolina, United States of America
Experience

North Carolina State University

Teaching Assistant / August, 2023Present

• Lab instructor for four Biology 181 (Introductory Biology: Ecology, Evolution, and Biodiversity) and Zoology 350 (Animal Phylogeny and Diversity) laboratory courses; Lead lab discussions; Grade in-lab and homework assignments.

University of North Carolina Asheville

Field and Lab Research Assistant / May, 2022May, 2023

Conducted field research tagging individuals of two species of Sarracenia pitcher plants to understand impacts of hybridization; Presented research at the Association of Southeastern Biologists conference; Experience working with federally endangered species, loading hematocytometers, preservation of anthers, Alexander’s stain maceration, and sample homogenization for counting; Experience developing research ideas and interpreting data.

Sundown Reptiles

Reptile Assistant / August, 2022August, 2023

Husbandry, maintenance, and handling of a variety of species of valuable gecko, tree monitor, and green tree python specimens; Observe egg production, provide direct aid to sick reptiles.

Appalachian Wildlife Refuge

Wildlife Husbandry Intern / January, 2023August, 2023

Husbandry, maintenance, and handling of a variety of wildlife species including waterfowl, opossums, squirrels, etc.…; Laundry and kitchen tasks for bedding upkeep, and animal feed preparation.

About
I, Alyssa Lynch, recently set forth on my academic journey as a student in North Carolina State University’s Biology Ph.D. program. This past summer, I proudly earned my B.S. in biology and minor in environmental studies at the University of North Carolina Asheville. To research evolutionary relationships in order to understand underlying mechanisms driving interactions is my academic goal. My career goals are to obtain a position working in the Biological Sciences with both field and lab opportunities.

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Aly Khalifa

Sustainable Innovation Expert
Education

North Carolina State University

BED, Environmental Design / May, 1990

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America

North Carolina State University

BS, Product Design Engineering / May, 1993

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
About
conceptual product designer, Mr. Khalifa has 30 years of experience in designing, engineering, and manufacturing unique technologies around the world. His clients have spanned from Bausch & Lomb and Seventh Generation to Walmart and Li&Fung. His collaborations have garnered more than 40 patents, been nominated for a Grammy Award and exhibited in the Louvre. Aly is an active Eisenhower Fellow and has garnered significant attention as a voice for sustainable design entrepreneurship, leading to lectures and mentorship worldwide. <br> Aly has pioneered numerous innovative endeavors, including: \- LiveLCA\, a patent\-pending system to report live impact data on product manufacturing\. \- Plastic Collective\, a pioneer in fugitive plastic recovery and credit with remote and vulnerable communities through deployable IOT\-enabled recycling operations\. \- Oceanworks\, an ocean plastic marketplace for consumer brands\. \- Designbox\, a multi\-disciplinary product innovation consultancy that has launched products for some of the most exciting sports brands in the world\. \- Gamila\, a gourmet product brand and Kickstarter sensation that was acquired by Seventh Generation\.

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Shaurya Mantrala

Incoming CE @ NCSU | Research Intern @ CMU | CPO @ SoberRide | IEEE Researcher
Education

North Carolina State University

Bachelor of Engineering - BE, Computer Engineering / December, 2029 (anticipated)

Enloe High School

High School Diploma / June, 2025 (anticipated)

Wake Technical Community College

North Carolina State University

Non-Degree Studies / May, 2024

Reedy Creek Magnet Middle School

Carpenter Elementary School

Experience

Carnegie Mellon University

Research Intern / November, 2024Present

SoberRide

Chief Product Officer / November, 2024Present

RoboEagles

Mechanical Team Member / November, 2021Present

The RoboEagles are a FIRST Robotics Competition team that participates in competition each year by building robots to complete various tasks. Our team's mission is to inspire young students in STEM education through participation in FIRST Robotics and foster the well-rounded development of youth STEM leaders that are self-confident, hard-working, dedicated, and innovative as well as promote science, technology, and teamwork throughout the community by leading outreach programs to serve students of all ages. I have been part of the mechanical team, working on building a sophisticated robot, to compete in each year's FIRST competition. I was also part of the team at an outreach opportunity of the Mental Health Meet at NC State, allowing us to show FIRST our motive to promote wellbeing and beat the stigma on mental health.

North Carolina State University

Student Researcher / May, 2024Present

SAM IT Solutions

Project Intern / July, 2024December, 2024

Project Intern / June, 2023August, 2023

North Carolina Central University

Student Researcher / May, 2024December, 2024

The Science and Research Summer Program(SRSP) aims to give superior high school students hands-on research experience by working on research projects with North Carolina Central University(NCCU) science professors in many disciplines. The program is supported by the CREST center(NSF), the Partnership for Research and Education in nanoMaterials(PREM) between Pennsylvania State University(PSU) and NCCU, the URC center(NASA support), and the University of Maryland through the Robust Quantum Simulation award. Through this program, I worked with Samarth Das, with Dr. Uma's mentorship and guidance, on the research project "Binary vs. Multi-Class Classification of Martian Images: Studying the Impact on Performance of Pre-Trained CNN Models." We thank Dr. Uma for this opportunity as this was possible through a NASA grant designated to her and are grateful to her for the amazing guidance & mentorship.

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