Prof. Dr. Odette Virginia Delfin Ortega | Strategic Leadership | Excellence in Research

Prof. Dr. Odette Virginia Delfin Ortega | Strategic Leadership | Excellence in Research

Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo | Mexico

Odette Virginia Delfín Ortega is an accomplished academic and researcher specializing in international business, productivity, and regional development, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. She earned her Ph.D. in International Business and her Master’s Degree in Foreign Trade from the Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, further enhancing her global perspective through a postdoctoral stay at Aston University in the United Kingdom. With extensive professional experience in customs operations and logistics management, she transitioned to academia as a full-time Associate Professor, where she has contributed significantly to research, teaching, and institutional leadership. Her scholarly output includes five books, 30 book chapters, and more than 60 articles published in internationally recognized journals, complemented by presentations at major academic forums in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. She has held key administrative positions, including Director of the Institute for Economic and Business Research and Coordinator of a CONACYT-recognized graduate program. Her research excellence has earned distinctions such as membership in the National System of Researchers and recognition as an Honorary State Researcher. Currently, she contributes to national academic collaboration as National Technical Secretary of the Mexican Consortium of APEC Study Centers, strengthening ties between academia and regional policy development.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Delfín-Ortega, O. V. (2025). Assessing technological and sustainable performance in maritime transport through the SFA metafrontier framework. Discover Sustainability. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-025-02200-x

Delfin, O. (2025). Efficiency of APEC region ports: An approach introducing weights restrictions in DEA. Maritime Business Review. https://doi.org/10.1108/MABR-03-2024-0022

Delfín-Ortega, O. (2025). Maritime logistics and economic growth in the context of APEC: A two-stage data envelopment analysis study. Journal of Shipping and Trade.

Navarro Chávez, J. C. L., & Delfín Ortega, O. V. (2025). El acervo de capital en la industria manufacturera de los países de América del Norte: Una estimación a partir del método de inventarios perpetuos con factor de ajuste. Revista Nicolaita de Estudios Económicos. https://doi.org/10.33110/rneev19i1.354

Delfin, O. (2025). Labor, capital, and technology as determinants of productivity in the electrical sector in Mexico during its distribution phase. International Journal of Energy, Environment and Economics.

Delfin, O. (2024). La legitimidad democrática en México en el periodo 2018–2021: Una propuesta de índice sintético. Revista Cimexus. https://doi.org/10.33110/cimexus190205

Delfin, O., & Navarro Chávez, J. C. L. (2024). Labor, capital, and technology as determinants of productivity in the electrical sector in Mexico during its distribution phase. International Journal of Energy, Environment and Economics.

Zienab Ahmed-Innovative Leadership-Best Paper Award 

Assist Prof Dr. Zienab Ahmed-Innovative Leadership-Best Paper Award 

United arab emirates university-United Arab Emirates 

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Zienab Fawzy Reiad Ahmed has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and passion for horticulture from the very beginning of her academic journey. Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in Horticulture Physiology and Biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA (2014), an MSc in Horticulture (Plant Physiology) from Assuit University, Egypt (2005), and a BSc in Horticulture (Pomology) from Assuit University, Egypt (1998).

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Ahmed's professional journey showcases a diverse range of experiences. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Horticulture at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) since 2019, she has also held positions at South Valley University, Egypt, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, where she completed her Ph.D. from 2009 to 2014. Her roles have included teaching, research, and supervising students at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Furthermore, her influence extends beyond the confines of the university through her active participation in professional societies and editorial boards of esteemed scientific journals. As a member of committees related to industry relationships, research, and development, Dr. Ahmed is instrumental in fostering collaborations, expanding opportunities for students, and contributing to the broader horticultural community. Her innovative leadership is not only reflected in her research endeavors but also in her dedication to creating a holistic and future-focused educational experience that prepares students for the evolving landscape of agriculture and horticulture.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Ahmed has made significant contributions to the field of horticulture, particularly in sustainable crop production, physiology, and postharvest technology. Her research program aims to explore innovative technologies and practices to enhance the sustainability of vegetable cropping systems, optimize crop productivity in soilless systems, and extend the market life of fruits using sustainable approaches. Additionally, she focuses on the utilization of technology to facilitate crop pollination and addresses issues related to pre and postharvest horticultural crops.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Ahmed has received numerous accolades and recognition for her outstanding contributions. She has actively participated in various conferences and workshops, presenting her research findings globally. Her membership in prestigious organizations such as the American Society of Horticulture Science (ASHS) and the International Society of Horticulture Science (ISHS) underlines her commitment to staying at the forefront of her field.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Ahmed's impact is evident not only in her research but also in her roles within academic institutions. As a coordinator for BSc. in Horticulture Programs, academic advisor, and active committee member at UAEU's College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), she plays a vital role in shaping the academic landscape.

Dr. Zienab Ahmed exemplifies innovative leadership through her dynamic contributions to academia, research, and institutional development. As the coordinator for BSc. in Horticulture Programs at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), she has spearheaded initiatives to redefine and enhance the educational landscape. Her innovative curriculum development, including the introduction of new courses and learning outcomes, reflects a forward-thinking approach that aligns academic offerings with industry demands. Additionally, Dr. Ahmed's leadership in various committees at both departmental and college levels, such as the "Smart Learning Committee" and "Program and Curriculum Committee," showcases her commitment to shaping a progressive and adaptive learning environment.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Zienab Ahmed's legacy lies in her dedication to advancing horticultural science and education. Her ongoing research projects, extensive publication record, and leadership in academic committees position her as a driving force in the field. As she continues to contribute to innovative approaches in sustainable horticulture, her legacy is bound to inspire future generations in the realm of agriculture and horticulture.

In conclusion, Dr. Zienab Ahmed's journey reflects a remarkable fusion of academic prowess, research excellence, and a commitment to sustainable practices in horticulture. Her multifaceted contributions underscore the importance of holistic approaches in shaping the future of agriculture and horticulture.

Notable Publications