Dr. Zahra Khoshdouni Farahani | Research Excellence Award | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Zahra Khoshdouni Farahani | Research Excellence Award | Research Excellence Award

science and research branch university | Iran

Dr. Zahra Khoshdouni Farahani is a university lecturer and scientific reviewer with a Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology from the Science and Research Branch of Islamic Azad University. Her research focuses on food chemistry, functional beverages, encapsulation of bioactive compounds, nanotechnology in food systems, and food quality and safety. She has extensive experience in teaching courses across food science, cereal and dairy technology, food microbiology, edible oils, confectionery, and quality control. Dr. Farahani has published numerous papers in high-impact journals (Q1-Q2), contributed to international conferences, and authored specialized books on food chemistry and encapsulation technologies. She is actively involved in scientific societies, international committees, and editorial boards, serving as a reviewer for multiple Q1 and Q2 journals. Recognized with numerous awards, including gold and platinum medals at international invention and innovation festivals, she has also successfully secured multiple ISI publications. Her work emphasizes the integration of bioactive compounds, functional foods, and sustainable food processing technologies. Dr. Farahani’s research and teaching advance the understanding of food systems, improve food safety and quality, and foster innovation in food technology, contributing to both academic excellence and industry applications globally.

Profile:  Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Farahani, Z. K., Mousavi, M., Ardebili, M. S., & Bakhoda, H. (2022). Modification of sodium alginate by octenyl succinic anhydride to fabricate beads for encapsulating jujube extract. Current Research in Food Science, 54.

Khoshdouni, F. Z. (2021). The effect of extraction method (ultrasonic, maceration, and soxhlet) and solvent type on the extraction rate of phenolic compounds and extraction efficiency of Arctium lappa L. Food and Health, 4(2), 28–34.

Khoshdouni Farahani, Z., Mousavi, M., Seyedain Ardebili, M., & Bakhoda, H. (2022). The influence of sodium alginate and sodium alginate/WPI as coating material on microcapsules of jujube extract produced by spray dryer. Journal of Food Processing and Preservation, e17175.

Helmi, M., Khoshdouni Farahani, Z., Hemmati, A., & Ghaemi, A. (2024). Facile synthesis of Persian gum–graphene oxide composite as a novel adsorbent for CO₂ capture: Characterization and optimization. Scientific Reports, 14(1), 5511.

Farahani, Z. K., Mousavi, M., Seyedain Ardebili, M. S., & Bakhoda, H. (2023). Stability, physicochemical, rheological and sensory properties of beverage containing encapsulated jujube extract with sodium alginate stabilized by sodium alginate and Gellan gum. Food Chemistry Advances, 2, 100195.

Dr. Farzad Ahmad | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Excellence in Research

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Dr. Farzad Ahmad | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Excellence in Research

Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center | Iran

Dr. Farzad Ahmadi is a distinguished researcher in Natural Resources with a specialization in Rangeland Management, holding a Ph.D. from the University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Sari, Iran. His work bridges ecological sustainability and socio-economic resilience, focusing on rangeland management, pastoral systems, and environmental hazards such as dust storms, drought, and land degradation. Dr. Ahmadi has contributed significantly to community-based forestry and mangrove management, invasive species control, and urban waste and composting systems. He has published numerous peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters addressing the impacts of environmental challenges on livelihoods, soil fertility comparisons of native versus non-native species, and strategies for rangeland restoration. Dr. Ahmadi has actively collaborated on national and international research projects, investigating drivers of community participation in sustainable forestry initiatives. His expertise encompasses field research, environmental impact assessments, socio-economic surveys, and both qualitative and quantitative data analysis, with proficiency in GIS, AutoCAD, and SPSS. Recognized for integrating ecological and social dimensions in resource management, he continues to advance sustainable and participatory approaches in natural resource conservation. His research contributes to enhancing ecosystem resilience, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and informing policy and community practices in rangeland and forest management globally.

Profile:  Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Ahmadi, F., Zamani, O., Mirzaei, H., & Azadi, H. (2024). Exploring the impact of dust storms on pastoralists’ livelihoods in West Iran: Social, economic, and environmental consequences. Environmental Quality Management, 33(4), 821–833. https://doi.org/10.1002/tqem.22158

Ahmadi, F., & Mirzaei, H. (2025). Factors influencing pastoralists’ participation in rangeland restoration and rehabilitation projects: A case study in West Iran. Rangelands. (In press)

Moslehi, M., Ahmadi, F., Matinizadeh, M., Sadeghi, S. M., Izadi, M., Faunae, N., Alizadeh, T., & Shackleton, R. T. (2025). Native versus non-native Prosopis woody species: Which fertilize the soil better? Folia Oecologica, 52(1). https://doi.org/10.2478/foecol-2025-0008

Ms. Shaguna Gupta | Cloud Computing Computer Science Research | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Shaguna Gupta | Cloud Computing Computer Science Research | Best Researcher Award

National College of Ireland | Ireland

Shaguna Gupta is a dedicated computer science researcher specializing in cloud computing, distributed systems, and intelligent transportation systems. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at Trinity College Dublin (TCD), Ireland, focusing on highway traffic flow optimization using deep reinforcement learning to improve traffic throughput and travel time reliability. She holds a Master of Technology in Cloud Computing with Queuing Theory from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), India, and a Bachelor of Engineering from Jammu University, India. Her research experience spans multiple international institutions, including a postgraduate studentship under Science Foundation Ireland’s CRT ADVANCE project, a research internship at the University of Virginia, USA, and project work at the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. She has contributed to multiple publications in areas such as rideshare optimization, queuing theory for cloud services, and microservice resilience. As an educator, she has served as an associate faculty member, demonstrator, and lecturer, supervising cloud computing projects and teaching modules on AI, programming, and cybersecurity. Her research interests include cloud computing, traffic management, multi-agent reinforcement learning, and distributed systems. She has received several academic awards, including gold medals, scholarships, and best paper presentations. Committed to advancing technology for societal benefit, she actively participates in workshops, conferences, and community outreach, reflecting a balance of innovation, leadership, and practical impact.

Profile:  Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Gupta, S., Narang, R., Krishnaswami, K., & Yadav, S. (1994). Plasma selenium level in cancer patients. Indian Journal of Cancer, 31(3), 192–197.

Fusco, V. F., Sancheti, S., & Gupta, S. (1994). Active antenna element design issues. IEE Colloquium on Smart Antennas (Digest No: 1994/182), 9/1–9/7.

Gupta, S., & Fusco, V. F. (1996). Low cross-polarized integrated mixer/phase shifter patch antenna for beamforming applications. 26th European Microwave Conference, 1, 397–400.

Gupta, S., & Pourush, R. K. S. (1999). Technical Notes-4 x 4 planar phased array of circular patch microstrip antenna in plasma environment for on-board applications. Space Technology-Abingdon, 19(2), 97–108.

Gupta, S., Fusco, V. F., & Sancheti, S. (1999). Self-phased re-transmitting integrated mixer antenna array. International Journal of Electronics, 86(2), 207–215.

Gupta, S., Narang, R., & Patel, M. K., Gupta, K., Kumar, K. (2025). Enhanced ECC-driven text encryption scheme using chaotic maps and Rhotrices. Palestine Journal of Mathematics, 14(3).

Gupta, S., & Arora, S. (2018). Queueing system in cloud services management: a survey. International Journal of Pure and Applied Mathematics, 119(12), 12741–12753.

Shaikh, R. (2025). Prediction of resource utilization in cloud computing using machine learning. Dublin, National College of Ireland.

Prof. Dr. Yosbanys Roque Herrera | Performance Management | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Yosbanys Roque Herrera | Performance Management | Best Researcher Award

Escuela Superior Politécnica de | Ecuador

Dr. Yosbanys Roque Herrera is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in higher education, health sciences, and educational innovation. He holds dual undergraduate degrees in Aerophotogeodesy and Geodesy & Cartography from the Escuela Interarmas de las FAR, Cuba, a Master’s in Higher Education in Health Sciences from the Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de La Habana, and a PhD in Didactic Innovation and Teacher Training from the Universidad de Jaén, Spain. Over his extensive career, he has held faculty and administrative positions in multiple institutions, including ESPOCH and UNACH, contributing significantly to curriculum design, research development, and academic publications. His teaching expertise spans bioethics, statistics, research methodology, and educational strategies, while his research interests focus on health education, disaster preparedness, pedagogy, and historical studies in community health. Dr. Roque has received recognition for his research contributions, including national and international awards and designations as Principal and Associate Researcher. He has led numerous community-oriented projects, produced multiple scholarly publications, and contributed to international conferences and editorial boards. His work emphasizes the integration of research, teaching, and community engagement to foster educational excellence and scientific advancement. Dr. Roque continues to inspire students and colleagues through innovative pedagogy and impactful research in health and educational sciences.

Profile:  Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Roque Herrera, Y., Tenelanda López, D. V., & Basantes Moscoso, D. R. (2023). Teorías y modelos sobre los estilos de aprendizaje. Edumecentro, 15.

Herrera, Y. R., Tenelanda, D., Moscoso, D. R. B., & Parra, J. L. E. (2023). Teorías y modelos sobre los estilos de aprendizaje desde una visión holística. Edumecentro, 15(1), 28.

Roque-Herrera, Y., & Quizhpi-Andrade, L. R. (2022). Sentido de pertenencia en estudiantes universitarios ecuatorianos en tiempos de pandemia. Puriq, 4, e272.

Yanchapanta Paredes, Á. R., & Roque Herrera, Y. (2022). Pertinencia de intervenciones psicoterapéuticas en familias bajo régimen legal de visitas supervisadas en Ambato-Ecuador. Revista Científica UISRAEL, 9(3), 197–211.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Neylan kaya | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Neylan kaya | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Akdeniz University | Turkey

Neylan Kaya is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Business at Akdeniz University, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences. She holds a PhD in Business Administration from Süleyman Demirel University, a master’s degree in Business Administration from Akdeniz University, and an undergraduate degree in Mathematics from Akdeniz University. Since 2018, she has been actively involved in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, delivering courses such as Operations Research, Managerial Decision Making, and Mathematics. Her academic experience is complemented by extensive jury memberships and participation in numerous national and international scientific conferences. Her research interests lie primarily in quantitative methods, efficiency and productivity analysis, multi-criteria decision-making techniques (such as DEA, VIKOR, TOPSIS, PROMETHEE, and MCDM), corporate governance, ESG practices, insurance and banking performance, and sustainability-related management studies. She has published widely in peer-reviewed international and national journals indexed in SCI-Expanded, SSCI, ESCI, and Scopus, as well as contributed chapters to academic books. Her scholarly work has gained recognition through high-impact journal publications and active involvement in reputable scientific congresses. Overall, her academic profile reflects a strong commitment to advancing evidence-based management research, fostering analytical thinking in higher education, and contributing to the development of quantitative and sustainability-oriented approaches in business and management sciences.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Kaya, N., & Atsan, N. (2025). How green transformational leadership influences employee green behavior: The mediating role of green intrinsic motivation. Journal of Environmental Management.

Kaya, N., Bozcuk, A. E., Tutcu, B., Terzioğlu, M., & Ünal Uyar, G. F. (2025). Evaluating ESG practices from the perspective of transparency and accountability through clustering analysis and MCDM methods. Sustainability.

Kaya, N. (2025). Sigorta şirketlerinin stokastik sınır analizi ile etkinliği: Bir meta analiz. Adıyaman Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü Dergisi.

Prof. You-Qi Tang | Industrial Applications | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. You-Qi Tang | Industrial Applications | Research Excellence Award

Faculty of Intelligent Technology, Shanghai Institute of Technology | China

You-Qi Tang is a Professor in the field of Mechanics, specializing in Dynamics and Control, with extensive experience in both research and teaching at the university level. He earned his Ph.D. in Engineering from Shanghai University and has since developed a sustained academic career focusing on axially moving and high-dimensional flexible continuous systems. His research interests center on nonlinear dynamics, vibration mechanisms, and vibration control under complex multiphysical coupling conditions, with applications spanning aerospace, advanced manufacturing, energy equipment, and mechanical systems. He has authored 92 academic publications, including 64 peer-reviewed journal articles in leading SCI- and EI-indexed journals, which have received nearly 1,000 citations, reflecting strong international impact. In addition to scholarly publications, he holds multiple authorized invention and utility model patents, demonstrating effective integration of theory and engineering practice. He has led and participated in numerous national, municipal, and industry-funded research projects, including those supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. His academic excellence has been recognized through multiple prestigious awards at national and provincial levels. Alongside research, he is deeply engaged in higher education, contributing to curriculum development, textbook compilation, and student mentorship. Overall, his work represents a strong combination of rigorous theoretical research, engineering innovation, and commitment to talent cultivation in modern mechanics.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Zhang, D.-B., Zhang, Y., Chen, X., & Tang, Y.-Q. (2025). Dynamic stability of axially translating viscoelastic functionally graded Timoshenko beams in magnetic field. Journal of Vibration and Control. https://doi.org/10.1177/10775463251364019

Tan, X., Liu, S., & Tang, Y.-Q. (2025). Free vibration of a pipe conveying fluid constituted by the standard solid viscoelastic model. International Journal of Dynamics and Control. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40435-025-01583-z

Wang, Y., Yang, F., & Tang, Y.-Q. (2024). An inclusive kinematic model for needle steering and the associated heuristic path planning method. In Proceedings of the ACM Conference. https://doi.org/10.1145/3679409.3679439

Chen, L., Tang, Y.-Q., Liu, S., Zhou, Y., & Liu, X.-G. (2021). Nonlinear phenomena in axially moving beams with speed-dependent tension and tension-dependent speed. International Journal of Bifurcation and Chaos, 31(3), Article 2150037. https://doi.org/10.1142/S0218127421500371

Prof. Dr. Lavinia Denisia Cuc | Digital Transformation in Accounting and Auditing | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Dr. Lavinia Denisia Cuc | Digital Transformation in Accounting and Auditing | Research Excellence Award

Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad | Romania

Lavinia Denisia Cuc is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of economics and accounting, known for her contributions to university education, research coordination, and multidisciplinary collaboration. She holds a Doctorate in Accounting from the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, complemented by master’s degrees in economic analysis, business evaluation, and accounting and business management, supported by multiple postgraduate qualifications in auditing, training, and financial analysis. Her professional experience spans over two decades in higher education, where she has served as University Assistant, Teaching Assistant, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and currently as a Faculty member engaged in teaching, research, and PhD supervision. She also serves as Coordinator of the Research and Consultancy Center in Economics and has significant industry experience as a procurement manager and managing partner in accounting consultancy. Her research interests focus on managerial accounting, economic-financial analysis, enterprise evaluation, and interdisciplinary approaches within social, economic, and environmental sciences. She has contributed to multiple international research projects and serves on editorial boards of several academic journals. Recognized through numerous excellence awards for scientific performance and innovation, she continues to advance high-quality research and academic leadership, fostering development, collaboration, and knowledge dissemination within the academic community.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Cuc, L. D., Rad, D., Isac, F. L., Barbu, F. S., Joldeș, C. S. R., Gomoi, B. C., Almași, R. C., Manațe, D., & Megan, O. (2025). Mapping user perceptions of AI in accounting and auditing with the TAM—A network analysis approach. Electronics. https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14234598

Rad, D., Cuc, L. D., Croitoru, G., Gomoi, B. C., Mazuru, L., Bilți, R. S., Rusu, S., Sinaci, M., & Barbu, F. S. (2025). Modeling investment decisions through decision tree regression—A behavioral finance theory approach. Electronics. https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14081505

Cuc, L. D., Rad, D., Cilan, T. F., Gomoi, B. C., Nicolaescu, C., Almași, R., Dzitac, S., Isac, F. L., & Pandelica, I. (2025). From AI knowledge to AI usage intention in the managerial accounting profession and the role of personality traits—A decision tree regression approach. Electronics. https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14061107

Runcan, R., Hațegan, V., Toderici, O., Croitoru, G., Gavrila-Ardelean, M., Cuc, L. D., Rad, D., Costin, A., & Dughi, T. (2025). Ethical AI in social sciences research: Are we gatekeepers or revolutionaries? Societies. https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15030062

Cuc, L. D., Rad, D., Saplacan, S., Sendroiu, C., Batca-Dumitru, G. C., Wysocki, D., Dutu, A., & Manolescu, A.-A. (2024). A hierarchical clustering analysis of the management accounting practices perceptions in Romania. International Journal of Computers Communications & Control, 19(6). https://doi.org/10.15837/IJCCC.2024.6.6864

Dr. Jack Pink | Authentic Leadership | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Jack Pink | Authentic Leadership | Young Scientist Award

Stanford University | United States

Dr. Jack Pink is a maritime archaeologist specializing in the study of shipwrecks and their broader cultural and ecological impacts. He holds a Ph.D. in Archaeology, an M.A. in Maritime Archaeology, and a B.A. in Archaeology, with extensive training in underwater and terrestrial field methods, including SCUBA and HSE diving qualifications. His research integrates archaeological excavation, geophysics, remote sensing, and digital methodologies, with a particular focus on shipwreck assemblages, maritime heritage records, and the application of data science and machine learning to heritage datasets. Dr. Pink has contributed to major projects including Unpath’d Waters, the Black Sea Maritime Archaeology Programme, and digital twin modeling of historic vessels such as RRS Discovery. His work encompasses field leadership, policy development for underwater cultural heritage, and teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in maritime archaeology, data science, and heritage management. He has published in leading journals, presented internationally, and received awards for community engagement and contributions to maritime archaeology research. Dr. Pink continues to explore interdisciplinary approaches connecting archaeology, technology, and marine ecology, enriching understanding of maritime heritage and informing conservation practices. His research advances both academic knowledge and practical applications in heritage management and sustainable exploration of underwater sites.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Pink, J. (2025). Paper ships on digital seas. Journal of Maritime Archaeology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11457-025-09487-x

Pink, J., Pedrotti, F., & Whitewright, J. (2025). The archaeology of the Rhoda Mary, a Cornish schooner hulked in the River Medway. Journal of Field Archaeology. https://doi.org/10.1080/00934690.2025.2476269

Pink, J., & Whitewright, J. (2022). A life less than ordinary: The schooner Ocean (1821–1865). Historical Archaeology, 56, 3–15. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41636-021-00322-3

Pink, J. (2021). Philip Reid: The merchant ship in the British Atlantic, 1600–1800: Continuity and innovation in a key technology. Journal of Maritime Archaeology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11457-021-09299-9

Assist. Prof. Dr. Zhigang Wu | Innovative Leadership | Research Excellence Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Zhigang Wu | Innovative Leadership | Research Excellence Award

Jiangxi University of Science and Technology | China

Zhigang Wu is an accomplished associate professor whose work centers on precision engineering, intelligent mechatronic systems, and micro–nano manipulation technologies. He holds a Ph.D. in Electromechanical Engineering from the University of Macau, a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Tianjin University of Technology, and a bachelor’s degree in Electromechanical Engineering from the North University of China. With extensive academic and research experience, he has made significant contributions in areas such as flexure hinge mechanisms, PZT-driven micro-grippers, nanopositioning platforms, nonlinear control, smart sensors, micro-robots, and hysteresis modeling. His research outputs include over 15 publications in reputable journals and international conferences, including SCI-indexed papers, IEEE Access, Scientific Reports, and IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters. He also serves as a reviewer for leading journals and robotics/mechatronics conferences. His work has supported several national and international research projects funded by agencies in China and Macau, focusing on advanced micromanipulation technologies, robust control, and intelligent optimization. He has been recognized with awards such as the Excellent Master Thesis Award from Tianjin University of Technology. Through his continued research in cutting-edge micro-robotics, advanced control algorithms, and precision mechanisms, he remains dedicated to advancing intelligent mechatronic systems and contributing impactful innovations to the field.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

BiAttentionNet: A dual-branch automatic driving image segmentation network integrating spatial and channel attention mechanisms. (2025). Scientific Reports.

Covid-19 psychological pressures, depression and FOMO: The mediating role of online social support and emotional regulation. (2024). BMC Psychology.

Mr. Noel Isack Kaaya | Environmental and analytical chemistry | Research Excellence Award

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Mr. Noel Isack Kaaya | Environmental and analytical chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Government Chemist Laboratory Authority | Tanzania

Noel Isack Kaaya is an accomplished chemist researcher with over a decade of professional experience in hazardous chemicals management, occupational safety and health, and advanced laboratory analysis related to environmental pollution, toxicology, and illicit substances. He holds a Master of Science in Chemistry from the University of Dodoma and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Dar es Salaam, building a strong academic foundation in analytical and environmental chemistry. His research work focuses on acid mine drainage, geogenic contamination, environmental toxicology, soil pollution, and the use of advanced materials such as graphene-based adsorbents for rare earth element recovery. He has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications addressing environmental contamination and public health risks in mining regions. His professional experience includes long-term service as a chemist in a national analytical laboratory, where he conducts critical assessments of environmental hazards and supports scientific investigations. His research interests extend to environmental risk assessment, geochemistry, and sustainable waste management solutions. With growing recognition in the scientific community and impactful contributions to environmental health, he continues to advance research that informs policy, protects public safety, and strengthens sustainable mineral resource management. His career reflects a commitment to scientific excellence and environmental responsibility.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

Kaaya, N. I. (2026). Acid mine drainage, soil pollution, and carcinogenic risk of geogenic contaminants in artisanal and small-scale gold mining areas of Geita, Tanzania. Environmental Geochemistry and Health. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10653-025-02909-8