Andsera Adugna Mekonen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Andsera Adugna Mekonen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award 

PhD Student | University of Naples | Italy

Mrs. Andsera Adugna Mekonen is an exceptionally promising young researcher in Earth and Environmental Sciences, demonstrating remarkable academic excellence, research innovation, and international recognition. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering at the University of Naples Federico II, Italy, she focuses on developing sustainable agroforestry ecosystems using Earth Observation, AI, and drone technologies. Her research integrates remote sensing, GIS, machine learning, and UAS-based surveys to enhance biomass estimation and precision agriculture, reflecting a powerful blend of environmental sustainability and technological innovation. She has previously served as a Lecturer and Graduate Assistant at Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, building a strong foundation in geoinformatics and academic mentorship. Her ENI Award 2022, a highly prestigious global recognition, underscores her excellence in energy and environmental research, while her participation in international training programs (ESA, AUVSI, Virginia Tech, and African Drone & Data Academy) highlights her commitment to continuous learning and scientific leadership. Mrs. Mekonen’s scholarly output includes peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as Environmental Challenges (Elsevier) and conference papers presented at IEEE MetroAerospace 2024 and 2025, showcasing her global engagement and research relevance. With technical mastery across remote sensing software (ArcGIS, QGIS, ENVI), programming (Python, R, Google Earth Engine), and AI modeling, she embodies a multi-disciplinary scientist driving innovation in Earth observation and climate-smart agriculture. Her work directly contributes to addressing climate change adaptation, land degradation, and sustainable resource management—core priorities in global sustainability research. Given her academic distinction, technical expertise, and impactful contributions, Mrs. Andsera Adugna Mekonen is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, representing the next generation of transformative scientific leaders in environmental and Earth system innovation.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Mekonen, A. A., Raghuvanshi, T. K., Suryabhagavan, K. V., & Kassawmar, T. (2022). GIS-based landslide susceptibility zonation and risk assessment in a complex landscape: A case study of the Beshilo watershed, northern Ethiopia. Environmental Challenges, 8, 100586.

  2. Mekonen, A. A., Accardo, D., & Renga, A. (2024). Above-ground biomass estimation in an agroforestry environment by UAS and RGB imagery. In 2024 11th International Workshop on Metrology for Aerospace (MetroAerospace) (pp. 272–277). IEEE.

  3. Mekonen, A. A., Accardo, D., & Renga, A. (2025). Above-Ground Biomass Prediction in Agroforestry Areas Using Machine Learning and Multispectral Drone Imagery. In 2025 IEEE 12th International Workshop on Metrology for Aerospace (MetroAerospace) (pp. 63–68). IEEE.

  4. Mekonen, A. A., Conte, C., & Accardo, D. (2025). An effective process to use drones for above-ground biomass estimation in agroforestry landscapes. Aerospace, 12(11), 1001.

  5. Mekonen, A. A. (2021). GIS-based modeling and assessment of landslide susceptibility in mountainous terrain: A case study from Northern Ethiopia. Addis Ababa University, MSc Thesis.

Mrs. Andsera Adugna Mekonen’s pioneering research in Earth observation, AI, and drone-based agroforestry monitoring is transforming how we measure and manage environmental resources. Her innovative integration of remote sensing and machine learning enhances sustainable agriculture, supports climate change mitigation, and drives global innovation in precision ecosystem management—bridging science, technology, and sustainability for a resilient future.

Mukululi Ndlovu | Environmental Science | Best Research Article Award

Mr. Mukululi Ndlovu | Environmental Science | Best Research Article Award 

Ecologist | Zimbabwe Parks an Wildlife Management Authority | Zimbabwe

Mr. Ndlovu Mukululi is a Zimbabwean terrestrial ecologist whose professional trajectory and research output make him a strong candidate for a Best Research Article Award, supported by over a decade of progressive experience in wildlife management, ecological monitoring, and biodiversity conservation. Beginning his career as Assistant Park Manager at Umfurudzi Park from 2013 to 2016, he advanced to Ecologist at the same park until 2019, and currently serves as a Terrestrial Ecologist with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, where he contributes to national conservation programs and scientific assessments. His academic foundation includes an MSc in Biodiversity Conservation, earned with a First Class degree, and a Bachelor of Science Honours in Wildlife and Safari Management, demonstrating strong theoretical competence reinforced by extensive field experience. His professional development includes international capacity-building training under CITES in China, as well as specialized preparation in field ranger operations and wildlife management processes. His broad expertise covers ecological research and monitoring, environmental impact assessments, habitat suitability evaluations for wildlife introductions and reintroductions, game capture and translocation, fire management, park infrastructure planning, and mining administration, reflecting a comprehensive skill set aligned with modern conservation science. With six research publications, he has contributed meaningful scientific insights that address regional biodiversity challenges and inform evidence-based conservation decisions. Operating from Sengwa Wildlife Research Institute, he conducts rigorous ecological assessments that support species protection, habitat restoration, and sustainable wildlife management. His academic excellence, applied ecological knowledge, and peer-reviewed research collectively demonstrate the originality, scientific merit, and practical impact expected of work recognized by the Best Research Article Award.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  1. Ndlovu, M., Hungwe, C., Kusangaya, S., Muzamba, C., & Chinoitezvi, H. (2024). Modelling poaching risk zones in Sengwa Wildlife Research Area: A progressive step towards poaching management. Open Access Library Journal, 11, 1–16.

  2. Ndlovu, M. (2021). An analysis of the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on wildlife protection in Zimbabwean protected areas in 2020. Science of the Total Environment – Regional Studies, 3, 100052.

  3. Ndlovu, M., et al. (2022). Exploring opportunities and threats associated with conservation of ground pangolin (Smutsia temminckii) in Zimbabwe. Journal of Wildlife Research, 9(2), 112–120.

  4. Ndlovu, M., et al. (2022). Seasonal trend and distribution of wire-snaring activities and possible hotspots in the Sengwa Wildlife Area, Zimbabwe. Open Access Library Journal, 9, 1–12.

  5. Ndlovu, M., et al. (2024). Climate and weather monitoring research at the Terrestrial Ecology Unit, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. Terrestrial Research and Monitoring Projects Report, 32, 1–40.

The nominee’s work advances environmental science through evidence-based research that strengthens ecosystem resilience and informs sustainable resource management. His contributions support policy development, enhance conservation effectiveness, and provide scalable solutions that improve societal well-being and long-term environmental security.

Sui-Kwong Sunny Lam | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sui-Kwong Sunny Lam | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Hong Kong Metropolitan University | Hong Kong

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sunny Sui Kwong Lam is highly suitable for a Best Researcher Award based on his extensive academic leadership, sustained research output, and substantial contributions to digital culture, communication, creative industries, and cultural studies. With more than three decades of combined academic, professional, and research experience, he has established a strong scholarly profile characterized by depth, interdisciplinarity, and societal relevance. As an Associate Professor at Hong Kong Metropolitan University, he has led major academic programmes, supervised numerous theses, and contributed to curriculum development for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in creative advertising, media design, and cultural and digital communication. His research record includes high-quality journal publications, impactful Springer book chapters, and numerous presentations at internationally recognized conferences, covering areas such as digital aesthetics, participatory media, prosumption, city branding, local identity, mobile culture, and community health and well-being. His work is further acknowledged through active roles as associate editor, reviewer for leading journals, and specialist or panel member for accreditation bodies such as HKCAAVQ. In addition, his professional service extends to juror and assessor positions in media and creative arts competitions, reflecting his recognized expertise in both scholarly and applied domains. He has secured competitive grants, directed a research centre, coordinated international fieldwork, and edited academic volumes, demonstrating strong research leadership and knowledge dissemination. His excellence is reinforced by multiple institutional awards, including the President’s Awards for Excellence in Inspirational Teaching and Distinguished Achievement. Coupled with his advanced methodological skills in qualitative and quantitative research, rich industry background, and contributions to cultural policy and digital humanities, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lam presents a distinguished and holistic profile that aligns strongly with the expectations of a Best Researcher Award.

Profiles: ORCID | Scopus | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

Lam, S. S.-k. (2025). How to brand a city to appeal to young consumers: A qualitative study. Qualitative Market Research: An International Journal, 28(4), 607–624.

Lam, S. S. K. (2025). Self-regulated leisure sports for health and well-being: Learning from Harbour Runners’ community-based interventions and motivations through Instagram communications during the COVID-19 pandemic. World Leisure Journal, 67(2), 346–366.

Lam, S. S.-K. (2025). Xinyuan Wang, Ageing with Smartphones in Urban China: From the Cultural to the Digital Revolution in Shanghai. International Journal of Communication, 19, 2949–2952.

Lam, S. S. (2019). Multi-layered identities by social media and prosumption practices in digital and participatory communication. Journal of Digital Media & Interaction, 2(3), 7–22.

Lam, S. S. K. (2013). ICT’s impact on family solidarity and upward mobility in translocal China. Asian Journal of Communication, 23(3), 322–340.

 

The nominee’s work advances digital culture and creative communication research by generating new knowledge that strengthens cultural understanding, community well-being, and the evolution of media practices. His interdisciplinary contributions influence societal development, guide industry practices in branding and digital communication, and support global innovation through human-centered, research-driven insights.

Il-Cho Park | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Il-Cho Park | Engineering | Best Researcher Award 

Professor | Mokpo National Maritime University | South Korea

Prof. Il-Cho Park is a highly capable and impactful engineering professional whose academic depth and extensive industry background position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With over five years of professional experience in the shipping industry and a focused academic trajectory in surface treatment engineering for marine materials, he has cultivated a rare blend of practical expertise and research-driven innovation. His career demonstrates steady progression from first-class engineer at Hanjin Shipping Co., Ltd. to senior academic leadership as Professor at Mokpo National Maritime University, where he has served since 2020 while simultaneously holding the role of Chief Engineer. This dual track reflects his commitment to bridging industrial practice with scientific advancement, particularly in areas such as ship engineering, corrosion protection, surface treatment technologies, and marine pollution management. His academic credentials, including a master’s degree and a doctorate from Mokpo National Maritime University between 2013 and 2018, provide a strong foundation for advanced research in marine materials and engineering processes. Prof. Park’s expertise contributes significantly to improving maritime safety, enhancing material durability, and advancing eco-friendly engineering solutions within the marine sector. His career reflects sustained dedication to developing engineering methods that address real-world operational challenges, aligning with global priorities for sustainable and resilient maritime systems. Through active involvement in academia and maritime operations, he consistently demonstrates the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical technological improvements and industry standards. His contributions support the training of future marine engineers, promote innovation in surface treatment science, and address pressing environmental concerns linked to marine pollution. Overall, his professional record, specialized skill set, and commitment to continuous improvement highlight his suitability for the Best Researcher Award, underscoring his role as an influential figure advancing engineering excellence in the maritime field.

Profiles: ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

Park, I. C., & Kim, S. J. (2022). Cavitation erosion characteristics of hard chromium plated diesel engine cylinder liner. Transactions of the IMF.

Park, I. C., & Han, M. S. (2021). Solid particle erosion behavior of Inconel 625 thermal spray coating layers. Journal of the Korean Society of Marine Environment and Safety.

Park, I. C., & Han, M. S. (2021). Analysis of electrochemical corrosion resistance of Inconel 625 thermal spray coated fin tube of economizer. Journal of the Korean Society of Marine Environment and Safety.

Yang, Y. J., Lee, J. H., Park, I. C., & Kim, S. J. (2020). Investigation on electrochemical cathodic protection for cavitation-erosion reduction of anodized aluminum alloy. Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology.

Park, I. C., & Kim, S. J. (2020). Determination of corrosion protection current density requirement of zinc sacrificial anode for corrosion protection of AA5083-H321 in seawater. Applied Surface Science.

Prof. Il-Cho Park’s research advances the durability, safety, and sustainability of marine engineering systems through innovative surface treatment and corrosion-protection technologies. His work supports safer maritime operations, strengthens engineering materials for long-term industrial use, and contributes globally to cleaner, more resilient marine environments.

Dilek Soylu | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dilek Soylu | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award 

Academician | Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Universty | Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dilek Soylu is a highly accomplished academic whose extensive contributions to surgical nursing, organ transplantation, disaster preparedness, palliative care, and innovative nursing education make her an exceptional candidate for a Best Researcher Award. With a PhD in Surgical Nursing from Erciyes University and strong foundational training through both thesis and non-thesis master’s programs, she has built a career that integrates rigorous scientific inquiry with over a decade of hands-on clinical experience as an organ transplant coordinator and surgical intensive care nurse. This dual perspective strengthens the clinical applicability and societal relevance of her research. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soylu has an impressive publication portfolio featuring numerous peer-reviewed international articles in respected journals including The Surgeon, BMC Nursing, Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing, and Transplant Immunology, exploring vital themes such as organ donation determinants, anxiety and pain management, acupressure interventions, disaster response self-efficacy, and transplant readiness scale development. Her scholarly activity spans mixed-methods studies, randomized controlled trials, descriptive analyses, retrospective research, and methodological scale development, demonstrating her scientific range and depth. She has presented widely at national and international conferences, authored book chapters, and engaged actively in professional organizations such as Türk Hemşireler Derneği and Organ Nakli Hemşireleri Derneği. Additionally, she has contributed to academic governance as Vice Director of the School of Health and served as a thesis jury member at multiple universities. Her diverse teaching portfolio includes courses in surgical nursing, emergency care, transplantation nursing, and nursing education, reflecting her commitment to shaping future generations of healthcare professionals. Ongoing research projects, including technology-enhanced training for nursing students and clinical intervention studies, further emphasize her forward-looking vision. With her strong research productivity, scholarly influence, leadership roles, and clear contributions to nursing science and healthcare improvement, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dilek Soylu is highly suitable and deserving of recognition through a Best Researcher Award.

Profiles: ORCID | Scopus | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  1. Soylu, D., & Doğaner, A. (2025). The effect of self-confidence, life satisfaction and death anxiety on organ donation in student nurses: Moderator effect. The Surgeon, 23.

  2. Soylu, A., Seven, A., & Soylu, D. (2025). The impact of training using six thinking hats versus video training on nursing students’ insulin administration skills: A mixed-methods study. BMC Nursing, 24.

  3. Soylu, A., & Soylu, D. (2025). Comparison of pain, anxiety, and comfort level after femoral or transradial angiography: A descriptive study. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing.

  4. Soylu, D., & Soylu, A. (2025). Determination of urinary system infections risk factors after kidney transplantation: Retrospective analysis. Göbeklitepe Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi, 9(19), 1–7.

  5. Soylu, D. (2025). Self-confidence, communication skills, and a solution-focused approach in organ transplantation coordinators: Descriptive study. Turkish Journal of Surgery, 41(1), 47–55.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dilek Soylu’s research advances science and society by strengthening evidence-based practices in surgical nursing, organ transplantation, disaster readiness, and patient-centered care. Her contributions enhance global healthcare quality through innovative training methods, clinical interventions, and multidisciplinary approaches that improve patient outcomes and professional competency. Her work continues to inspire transformative innovation across health professions and contributes meaningfully to the future of global healthcare systems.

Hussain Ali | Immunology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hussain Ali | Immunology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Director Infectious Diseases & Immunology | Abbott laboratories | India

Dr. Hussain Ali is a distinguished researcher currently working at Abbott Diagnostics, United States, focusing on advancing diagnostic methodologies in infectious diseases. With a strong background in clinical and laboratory research, he has made significant contributions to the fields of virology and immunology, particularly in the quantification of antibodies in recovered COVID-19 patients and the development of ultrasensitive hepatitis B surface antigen testing. His work demonstrates a keen understanding of disease pathology and diagnostic innovation, combining rigorous experimental design with translational applications that can improve patient outcomes. Over the years, Dr. Hussain Ali has collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, producing high-quality peer-reviewed publications that reflect both depth and impact, including studies that address critical public health challenges such as viral infection monitoring and immune response assessment. His expertise in advanced diagnostics and antibody quantification highlights his ability to bridge basic research with practical clinical applications, positioning him as a thought leader in his domain. Beyond his technical achievements, Dr. Hussain Ali has shown consistent dedication to scientific rigor, collaborative research, and knowledge dissemination, ensuring that his work benefits both the academic community and the wider healthcare sector. His contributions reflect not only scholarly excellence but also societal relevance, as his research directly supports the development of better diagnostic tools and disease management strategies. Given his focused research portfolio, commitment to advancing medical diagnostics, and demonstrated impact through publications and collaborations, Dr. Hussain Ali exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding candidate for a Best Researcher Award, representing innovation, scientific leadership, and meaningful contribution to global health.

Profiles: ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  1. Ali, H., Buenning, C., & Daghfal, D. (2025). Advancing HBV diagnostics: The role of ultrasensitive HBsAg testing. Diagnostics, 15(21), 2744.

  2. Srivastava, S., Bahadur, S., Shukla, S., Upadhyay, R., Sickan, J., Darbar, A., & Ali, H. (2021). Quantification of IgG specific antibodies in recovered COVID‑19 patients and its association with disease severity. RAS Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.

Dr. Hussain Ali’s work advances global healthcare by developing ultrasensitive diagnostic tools that improve early detection and management of infectious diseases. His research bridges laboratory innovation with real-world clinical applications, enhancing patient outcomes and informing public health strategies. Through collaborative studies and high-impact publications, he drives scientific progress and fosters global innovation in diagnostics.

Rodion Sorokin | Computer Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Rodion Sorokin | Computer Science | Best Researcher Award 

Chief AI Architect | AI Time Capsule | United States

Mr. Rodion Sorokin demonstrates strong suitability for a Best Researcher Award through his exceptional contributions as an inventor, technical architect, and pioneering developer at the convergence of artificial intelligence, cryptography, ethics, and high-performance systems. His work emphasizes transforming ambitious conceptual frameworks into operational, secure, and scalable technological solutions that shape the next generation of responsible and reliable AI. As the co-founder and technical lead of an independent research lab, Mr. Sorokin plays a central role in designing foundational systems that address global challenges related to AI transparency, trust, accountability, and digital autonomy. His leadership in the AI Time Capsule project reflects deep technical insight and innovation, where he engineered the entire architecture incorporating federated longitudinal data protocols, hybrid foundation-adapter model design, and behavioral prompting mechanisms that enable advanced personality simulation, laying the groundwork for the emerging discipline of Computational Personality Science. His development of the AI Ethical Blackbox further demonstrates his capability to solve critical issues in AI governance and legal admissibility by creating the first cryptographically sealed blockchain-based audit system for neural networks, enabling transparent and accountable AI decision trails. Beyond these inventions, Mr. Sorokin’s contributions extend to digital trust and sovereignty systems, including the Entropy Protocol to combat AI-driven disinformation and SPYNO, a personal counter-surveillance ecosystem, underscoring his commitment to human-centered and security-focused digital infrastructure. His multidisciplinary vision, deep engineering expertise, and capacity to convert complex societal challenges into rigorous technological innovation reflect the qualities of a future-focused research leader. Mr. Sorokin’s work represents a rare blend of scientific rigor, ethical foresight, and system-level innovation, marking him as a transformative contributor to AI safety, digital trust, and next-generation cognitive technologies, and affirming his strong merit for recognition as a Best Researcher Award candidate.

Featured Publications

Sorokin, R. (2024). Teaming up with AI: Augmenting the service design process. Touchpoint, 15(1).

Nikolaichuk, S., & Sorokin, R. (2025). The digital will: A blockchain-based governance framework for post-mortem sovereignty of a digital personality. SSRN Working Paper.

Nikolaichuk, S., & Sorokin, R. (2025). A simulated dialogue: The therapeutic potential and ethical considerations of generative personality avatars in grief counseling. SSRN Working Paper.

Nikolaichuk, S., & Sorokin, R. (2025). Federated personalization for scalable personality simulation. SSRN Working Paper.

Sorokin, R., & Nikolaichuk, S. (2025). The mind-soul architecture: Scalable personality simulation via a hybrid foundation-adapter model with parameter-efficient fine-tuning. Research Manuscript.

 

Mr. Rodion Sorokin’s work pioneers the integration of artificial intelligence, cryptography, and ethical computing to create secure, scalable, and transparent digital systems. His innovations in personality simulation, AI accountability, and digital trust advance scientific understanding, empower ethical AI deployment, and shape technology solutions with global societal and industrial impact.

Huifeng Bai | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Huifeng Bai | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award 

Senior Lecturer | Liverpool John Moores University | United Kingdom

Dr. Huifeng Bai demonstrates strong suitability for a Best Researcher Award, backed by extensive academic, professional, and research achievements across international marketing, consumer behaviour, and fashion marketing. Currently serving as Senior Lecturer in Marketing & Public Relations at Liverpool Business School, Liverpool John Moores University since 2018, he has consistently contributed to impactful teaching, research, and doctoral supervision, evidenced by the successful guidance of PhD candidates and ongoing supervision roles. His academic foundation includes a PhD in Marketing and multiple postgraduate qualifications from leading UK institutions, strengthening his methodological and theoretical expertise. Dr. Bai has published in ABS-ranked journals, served as a reviewer and editorial board member for respected academic journals, and secured competitive research funding, including projects supported by Research England and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. His research portfolio spans international marketing strategies, emerging market multinationals, fashion retailing, sustainability-focused consumption, and consumer behaviour in global contexts, highlighted by work related to hydrogen-fuel innovation and luxury fashion consumption. Beyond academia, his professional consultancy experience enhances the relevance and industry alignment of his research, advising firms on market entry, internationalisation, branding, and strategic growth in China and the UK. His international recognition is further demonstrated by visiting professorships in Japan and China, invited lectures across Europe, and external examiner roles in UK higher education institutions. Dr. Bai’s contributions reflect strong commitment to advancing global marketing knowledge, fostering cross-border academic collaboration, and supporting sustainability and innovation in consumer markets, positioning him as an impactful and forward-thinking scholar whose research, teaching excellence, and industry influence make him highly deserving of recognition as a Best Researcher Award candidate.

Featured Publications

  1. Bai, H., Liu, H., & Smith, J. (2023). Internationalisation strategies of emerging market multinationals: Evidence from the fashion industry. Journal of International Marketing, 31(2), 45-63.

  2. Bai, H., Chen, Y., & Zhao, L. (2022). Consumer behaviour in pre-loved luxury fashion: Insights from Chinese consumers. Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, 26(4), 512-530.

  3. Bai, H., & Wang, X. (2021). Sustainability in luxury fashion: Examining the role of consumer perception and brand strategy. SN Business & Economics, 1(7), 1-18.

  4. Bai, H., & Roberts, K. (2020). Market entry strategies for SMEs in emerging markets: A case study approach. International Marketing Review, 37(5), 843-864.

  5. Bai, H., & Li, J. (2019). Branding and internationalisation of emerging market multinational enterprises: Challenges and opportunities. European Journal of Marketing, 53(9), 1875-1897.

 

Dr. Huifeng Bai’s research advances global understanding of international marketing, consumer behaviour, and sustainable business practices, bridging academic theory with real-world industry applications. His work informs strategic decision-making for multinational enterprises, fosters innovation in emerging markets, and promotes socially responsible consumption, contributing meaningfully to both global business knowledge and societal impact.

Rabab Hassan Elshaikh Mahmoud | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rabab Hassan Elshaikh Mahmoud | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Professor | A’Sharqiyah University | Oman

Dr. Rabab Hassan Elshaikh is a highly accomplished medical laboratory scientist and academic with over 18 years of progressive experience spanning university teaching, clinical laboratory practice, research, and quality management. She holds a Ph.D. in Medical Laboratory Science (Hematology) and advanced qualifications including a Mini MBA and a professional diploma in laboratory quality and safety. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at A’Sharqiyah University in Oman, she has previously held academic, supervisory, and specialist roles in top institutions across Sudan, UAE, and Oman. Dr. Rabab has significant expertise across hematology, immunohematology, immunology, microbiology, clinical chemistry, molecular diagnostics, and blood banking, supported by extensive technical experience on advanced analyzers and PCR platforms. She has published more than 20 research papers and book contributions in reputable international journals covering hematology, genetics, autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases, and personalized medicine, including studies on β-thalassemia, hemoglobinopathies, and AI-driven diagnostics. She has served as a reviewer for multiple scientific journals, contributed to conference presentations including a prestigious poster presentation at the European School of Hematology in Ireland, and earned a best paper award in 2025. Her professional credentials include international licenses (ASCPi, MOH UAE, DHA, SCFHS), memberships in global scientific organizations, and participation in accreditation and quality programs (ISO-15189, CAP, JCI, Lean Six Sigma). She has demonstrated strong leadership through developing SOPs, quality systems, training programs, and laboratory administration processes, ensuring compliance and excellence in service delivery. With broad clinical, academic, and research achievements, a strong publication record, and a commitment to advancing laboratory medicine and hematology, Dr. Rabab is exceptionally well-qualified and stands as an outstanding candidate for a Best Researcher Award and recognition in her field.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

Sah, A. K., Afzal, M., Elshaikh, R. H., Abbas, A. M., Shalabi, M. G., Prabhakar, P. K., Babker, A. M. A., Khalimova, F. T., Sabrievna, V. A., & Choudhary, R. K. (2025). Innovative strategies in the diagnosis and treatment of liver cirrhosis and associated syndromes. Life, 15(5), 779.

Elshaikh, R. H., Sah, A. K., Abukanna, A. M. A., Algarni, A., Abdelmola, A., Osma, H. A., & Alfeel, A. H. (2025). Mentzer index and red cell distribution width index in differentiating iron deficiency anemia and beta-thalassemia trait. Italian Journal of Medicine.

Sah, A. K., Elshaikh, R. H., Shalabi, M. G., Abbas, A. M., Prabhakar, P. K., Babker, A. M. A., Choudhary, R. K., Gaur, V., Choudhary, A. S., & Agarwal, S. (2025). Role of artificial intelligence and personalized medicine in enhancing HIV management and treatment outcomes. Life, 15(5), 745.

Rao, D. S., Kumar, A., Agarwal, S., Elshaikh, R. H., Choudhary, A., Choudhary, R. K., Babker, A. M. A., Rathore, R., Nurmakhanova, Z., & Nurgaliyeva, Z. (2025). The role of genetic variations in metabolic syndrome: Insights into etiology, diagnosis, and management. Italian Journal of Medicine, 19(1).

Hussein, A. H., Elsayed Yousif, T. Y., Abdelmola, A., Kumar, P., Osman, H. A., Elshaikh, R. H., Saboor, M., Hussein, S. O., Ali, E. I., & Elbashir, I. (2025). Prevalence and demographic analysis of hemoglobinopathies in newborns: A three-year study at Thumbay Teaching Hospital, Ajman-UAE. Journal of Blood Medicine, 16, 123-134.

The nominee’s visionary work catalyzes meaningful change across science, industry, and society by addressing critical global challenges. Their contributions expand the frontier of innovation, advance emerging technologies, and create pathways for sustainable economic and social development worldwide.

Young Ko | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Young Ko | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award 

CEO | YK Consuting | South Korea

Dr. Young Chan Ko is an internationally experienced researcher with a distinguished career across Korea, Sweden, and the United States, contributing significantly to biopolymers, nanoscience, pulp and paper technology, and innovation studies. His early research experience began at the Korea Institute of Science & Technology, followed by eight years of leadership as the founding Managing Director of the R&D Center at S-Oil Company, where he strengthened industrial innovation and technology strategy. He expanded his global research footprint in Sweden as a Visiting Scientist at the Swedish Pulp & Paper Research Institute, and later held key R&D positions at Procter & Gamble, Georgia-Pacific, Kimberly-Clark, and Weyerhaeuser in the United States, contributing to major advancements in consumer product technology and fiber science. Returning to Korea, he transitioned into academia, teaching creativity and innovation at Sogang University and conducting research as a Research Professor at Kookmin University, with specialization in surface and colloid science, paper physics, and international standard development for the pulp and paper sector. His research pursuits currently focus on fractal geometry applications, Industry 5.0, sustainability strategies, and innovation-driven growth in the paper industry. Dr. Ko has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in leading journals such as Nordic Pulp & Paper Research Journal, BioResources, and Journal of Korea TAPPI, addressing physical property evaluation, advanced surface characterization, sustainable industrial transformation, and consumer product technology development. He has also contributed to pioneering patent innovations in fiber modification, absorbent technologies, and polymer processing during his tenure with global corporations. With a rare blend of industrial leadership, scientific expertise, global research exposure, and forward-looking innovation insights, Dr. Ko demonstrates strong suitability for a Best Researcher Award, exemplifying multidisciplinary excellence, impactful industrial contributions, and a sustained commitment to bridging scientific research with creativity, technological advancement, and sustainable industrial development.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Ko, Y. C., Melani, L., Park, N. Y., & Kim, H. J. (2019). Surface characterization of paper and paperboard using a stylus contact method. Nordic Pulp & Paper Research Journal, 35(1), 78–88.

Ko, Y. C., Park, J. Y., Lee, J. H., & Kim, H. J. (2017). Principles of developing a softness evaluation technology for hygiene paper. Journal of Korea TAPPI, 49(4), 184–193.

Ko, Y. C., Kim, H. J., & Allan, G. G. (2019). 4th Industrial Revolution and the sustainable growth strategy for the pulp & paper industry. Journal of Korea TAPPI, 51(2), 123–130.

Ko, Y. C., Kim, H. J., & Park, J. M. (2024). Sustainable growth strategy of the paper industry in the artificial intelligence era. Journal of Korea TAPPI, 56(6), 5–14.

Ko, Y. C., Park, J. M., & Shin, S. J. (2015). The principles of fractal geometry and its applications for the pulp & paper industry. Journal of Korea TAPPI, 47(4), 177–186.

Dr. Young Chan Ko’s pioneering work bridges advanced material science, industrial innovation, and sustainable engineering, driving transformative progress in the global pulp and paper sector. His research in fractal analysis, nanostructured surfaces, and Industry 5.0 innovation frameworks supports next-generation manufacturing, environmental responsibility, and smarter product development. Through global industry–academia collaboration, he continues to influence scientific advancement, industrial modernization, and creative innovation culture worldwide.