Andrew W. Ellis has a degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University and a PhD in Psychology from the University of Edinburgh. He worked at the Universities of Lancaster and York where he taught human neuropsychology and produced over 200 academic publications. He is married with four grandchildren.

Oliver Raitmayr studied medicine and Near Eastern languages and cultures at the University of Innsbruck, graduating as a Master of Philosophy. He worked in gastronomy and archaeology and is now conducting genealogical studies. Oliver's family knew Pepina Zellenka well, helping to care for her in her last years.