Advances in Applied
Mechanics Conference

Prof. Martin van Hecke

Leiden University

Prof. Martin van Hecke focuses on the physics of soft and frustrated matter, exploring how complex behavior emerges from simple systems through a combination of experiments, simulations, and theory, in his work at AMOLF (Amsterdam) and Leiden University. Since receiving a Vici grant in 2011, Prof. Martin van Hecke has specialized in mechanical metamaterials—engineered structures whose properties are defined by their architecture. Prof. Martin van Hecke developed methods for designing 3D structures from simple building blocks, enabling “machine materials” with applications in prosthetics and wearable technology. Prof. Martin van Hecke’s research includes materials capable of forming complex patterns and self-folding under compression. Currently, supported by an ERC Advanced Grant (2021), Professor investigates how such materials can store and process information, bridging the gap between materials and machines.

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Prof. Ferdinando Auricchio

University of Pavia

Prof. Ferdinando Auricchio focuses on computational mechanics, developing advanced numerical methods—particularly finite element techniques for solids and fluids—and simulation tools for medical applications, especially in the cardiovascular field, in his work at the University of Pavia. Prof. Ferdinando Auricchio has also made significant contributions to additive manufacturing and 3D printing technologies, exploring new materials and applications ranging from civil engineering structures to biomedical solutions. With over 330 scientific publications (H-index 49, Scopus), Prof. Ferdinando Auricchio is a Fellow of IACM and recipient of the ECCOMAS Euler Medal (2016). Prof. Ferdinando Auricchio also served as Vice-President of ECCOMAS (2013–2019) and is a member of the Italian National Academy of Sciences.

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Prof. David Steigmann

University of California at Berkeley

Prof. David Steigmann focuses on continuum and solid mechanics, with key contributions to the study of thin films and shells, surface and capillary phenomena, finite elasticity, and elastic stability, in his work at the University of California, Berkeley. Prof. David J. Steigmann’s research combines rigorous theoretical analysis with applications to complex material systems, including biological membranes, surfactant films, and electromagnetic effects in solids. His work also addresses challenging problems in variational methods and the mechanics of thin structures. A Fellow of the Society of Engineering Science, Prof. David Steigmann is a recipient of the Levi-Civita Prize and the Engineering Science Medal (2013) and has served on the editorial boards of several leading journals in mechanics.

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