Vikas Duggal | Physics and Astronomy | Research Excellence Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Vikas Duggal | Physics and Astronomy | Research Excellence Award 

Assistant Professor | DAV College Bathinda | India

Dr. Vikas Duggal is highly suitable for consideration for the Research Excellence Award due to his sustained scholarly productivity, impactful research contributions, and national and international recognition in the field of radiation and environmental physics. With a Ph.D. in Radiation Physics awarded in 2015 and over seven years of continuous service as an Assistant Professor, he has established a strong academic career marked by consistent research output in high-impact SCI-indexed journals such as Health Physics, Chemosphere, Applied Radiation and Isotopes, Environmental Advances, and Radiation Protection Dosimetry, with more than 25 peer-reviewed journal publications and multiple papers in reputable international conference proceedings. His research primarily addresses critical societal and environmental concerns including uranium contamination, radon exposure, heavy metal toxicity, and radiological risk assessment in groundwater, soil, and drinking water across environmentally sensitive regions of North India, demonstrating both scientific rigor and strong public health relevance. The recent recognition of Dr. Duggal among the World’s Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University and Elsevier in 2024 significantly strengthens his candidature and reflects the global impact of his work. His receipt of multiple awards such as Best Young Scientist, Best Researcher, Best Teacher, and Young Researcher Awards further confirms his academic excellence and leadership. He has successfully supervised Ph.D. scholars, authored several research monographs with international publishers, served as a reviewer for leading international journals, delivered invited lectures, organized national academic events, and actively contributed to scientific societies. His sustained funding-independent research productivity, interdisciplinary impact, mentoring role, and consistent recognition at national and international levels collectively position him as an outstanding and technically strong candidate for the Research Excellence Award.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

  1. Kumar, S., Kansal, S., Duggal, V., & Khyalia, B. (2025). Evaluation of natural radionuclides and associated health risk assessment in soil and rock samples of northeastern Rajasthan, India. Health Physics.

  2. Kumar, S., Kansal, S., Duggal, V., & Kataria, N. (2025). Assessment of uranium levels and associated health risks in drinking water from various aquifers in northeastern Rajasthan, India. Isotopes in Environmental and Health Studies.

  3. Kumar, S., Kansal, S., & Duggal, V. (2025). Evaluation of radiation exposure and toxicity risks of uranium in drinking water of Bharatpur district, Rajasthan, India. Applied Radiation and Isotopes, 222, 111883.

  4. Duggal, V., Goyal, T., Kaur, R., Kaur, J., & Bajaj, G. (2023). Assessment of fluoride exposure and associated health risks from different sources of drinking water to various age groups in Bathinda City, Punjab, India. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, 132, 103472.

  5. Duggal, V., & Sharma, S. (2022). Fluoride contamination in drinking water and associated health risk assessment in the Malwa Belt of Punjab, India. Environmental Advances, 8, 100242.

Dr. Vikas Duggal’s research advances environmental radiation science by delivering high-impact evidence on uranium, radon, and heavy-metal contamination in water and soil, directly supporting public health protection and environmental safety. His work informs regulatory policy, risk mitigation strategies, and sustainable water-resource management for vulnerable populations.

Luisa Pozzo | Pharmacology | Excellence in Research Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luisa Pozzo | Pharmacology | Excellence in Research Award 

Senior Researcher | IBBA-CNR | Italy

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luisa Pozzo is a distinguished senior researcher with over fifteen years of continuous, high-impact contributions to food science, toxicology, nutraceuticals, and preclinical disease models, currently serving at the National Research Council of Italy through the Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology. Her internationally recognized expertise lies in the biofunctional characterization of food products, oxidative stress, inflammation, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, neurodegeneration, and novel food safety using validated mouse and rat models, with strong relevance to human health and predictive toxicology. She has authored more than 45 peer-reviewed publications in prestigious Q1 journals including Food Chemistry, Nutrients, Antioxidants, Molecules, Scientific Reports, and Food and Chemical Toxicology, reflecting exceptional productivity, quality, and global scientific influence. As Principal Investigator and scientific referent for multiple competitive national and international projects funded by the Italian Ministry of University and Research, Horizon Europe, regional authorities, and bilateral collaborations with Poland, Egypt, and Slovakia, she has demonstrated outstanding leadership in translational and multidisciplinary research. Her academic service includes long-standing editorial roles as Section Editor of the Polish Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences, Topic Editor of Frontiers in Toxicology, and Guest Editor of Foods. She is also a committed educator and mentor, having taught Applied Nutraceuticals for nearly a decade at the University of Pisa while supervising PhD, postdoctoral, and postgraduate researchers internationally. Her consistent scientific excellence, grant leadership, editorial influence, mentoring impact, and translational outcomes firmly establish her as a highly deserving candidate for an Excellence in Research Award.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

  1. Trouki, C., Campanella, B., Onor, M., Vornoli, A., Pozzo, L., Longo, V., & Bramanti, E. (2024). Probing the alterations in mice cecal content due to high-fat diet. Food Chemistry, 430, 139856.

  2. Souid, A., Giambastiani, L., Castagna, A., Santin, M., Vivarelli, F., Canistro, D., Morosini, C., Paolini, M., Franchi, P., Lucarini, M., Raffaelli, A., Giorgetti, L., Ranieri, A., Longo, V., Pozzo, L., & Vornoli, A. (2024). Assessment of the antioxidant and hypolipidemic properties of Salicornia europaea for the prevention of TAFLD in rats. Antioxidants, 13(5), 596.

  3. Wijaya, G. Y. A., Vornoli, A., Giambastiani, L., Digiacomo, M., Macchia, M., Szymczak, B., Wójcik, M., Pozzo, L., & Longo, V. (2025). Solid-state fermented cereals: Increased phenolics and their role in attenuating liver diseases. Nutrients, 17(5), 900.

  4. Tancreda, G., Campisi, L., Sarti, M., Pozzo, L., & Vornoli, A. (2025). Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and lipid metabolism in experimental animal models: A scoping review on the mechanisms behind the induced hepatotoxicity. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 47(11), 0000.

  5. Amin, A. A., Mahmoud, K. F., Salama, M. F., Longo, V., Pozzo, L., Seliem, E. I., & Ibrahim, M. A. (2023). Characterization and stability evaluation of Egyptian propolis extract nano-capsules and their application. Scientific Reports, 13, 42025.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luisa Pozzo’s research advances global understanding of how bioactive foods and nutraceuticals can prevent chronic diseases through precise preclinical and toxicological validation. Her work bridges fundamental science with food safety, sustainable nutrition, and human health, driving innovation across academia, industry, and public health sectors.

Manuel Gimenez | Innovation | Best Innovator Award

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Dr. Manuel Gimenez | Innovation | Best Innovator Award 

Chief Innovation Strategy Officer | Ayesa | Spain

Dr. Manuel Giménez Medina is eminently suitable for the Best Innovator Award based on the exceptional breadth, depth, and real-world impact of his career at the intersection of technology, research, and industry-led innovation. With over two decades of sustained leadership in innovation strategy, technology transfer, and applied research, he has consistently transformed advanced scientific knowledge into scalable digital solutions with measurable economic and social value. As Chief Innovation Strategy Officer at Ayesa and former Innovation Director at Emergya Group, he has led multinational innovation ecosystems, managed high-impact R&D portfolios exceeding tens of millions of euros, and coordinated complex international projects across artificial intelligence, smart cities, cybersecurity, digital agriculture, blockchain, and industrial IoT. His academic excellence is evidenced by a PhD in Software Engineering and Technology with cum laude distinction, Q1 publications in Expert Systems with Applications, and recognized scientific awards for best research articles, demonstrating both thought leadership and methodological rigor. What strongly enhances his candidacy is his rare ability to bridge academia, industry, and public administration through open innovation frameworks, enabling effective knowledge transfer, commercialization, and capacity building. As coordinator and principal investigator of multiple national and European projects such as AgrarIA, D-Rural, AI4Dev, and TIMBERTRACK, he has delivered innovations that directly support sustainability, digital transformation, and regional development. His advisory roles in strategic innovation committees and his trusteeship at a major ICT research foundation further validate his influence on innovation policy and ecosystem development. In education, mentoring, and doctoral supervision, he contributes to nurturing the next generation of innovators. Overall, his combination of scientific excellence, industrial impact, leadership credibility, funding success, and sustained societal contribution clearly positions him as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Innovator Award.

Profiles: Google Scholar | LinkedIn | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

Giménez Medina, M., González Enríquez, J., & Domínguez Mayo, F. J. (2023). The innovation challenge in Spain: A Delphi study. Expert Systems with Applications, 230, 120611.

Giménez Medina, M., González Enríquez, J., & Domínguez Mayo, F. J. (2023). A systematic review of capability and maturity innovation assessment models: Opportunities and challenges. Expert Systems with Applications, 213, 118968.

González Enríquez, J., Giménez Medina, M., & Domínguez Mayo, F. J. (2023). A systematic review of capability and maturity innovation assessment models: SMS. In Proceedings of the XXVII Jornadas de Ingeniería y Bases de Datos (JISBD), Spain.

Giménez Medina, M., González Enríquez, J., & Domínguez Mayo, F. J. (2020). Towards an agile innovation capability maturity framework to enhance investments on ICT organizations. In Proceedings of the 32nd International Conference on Advanced Information Systems Engineering (CAiSE), Spain.

 

Dr. Manuel Giménez Medina’s work drives global innovation by transforming advanced research in artificial intelligence and digital systems into high-impact, real-world solutions for smart cities, cybersecurity, and sustainable agriculture. By bridging academia, industry, and public institutions, his leadership strengthens technology transfer, accelerates digital transformation, and delivers measurable social and economic value at regional, national, and international levels.

Mukesh Ratnaparkhi | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mukesh Ratnaparkhi | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award 

Professor | Marathwada Mitramandals College of Pharmacy | India

Dr. Mukesh P. Ratnaparkhi, a distinguished pharmaceutical scientist with over 19 years of academic and research experience, demonstrates strong suitability for a Best Researcher Award through his extensive contributions to pharmaceutics, drug delivery systems, and formulation science. Currently serving as a Professor in Pharmaceutics at Marathwada Mitra Mandal’s College of Pharmacy, Pune, he has progressed through roles of increasing responsibility and is an approved Associate Professor, postgraduate teacher, and Ph.D. research guide under Savitribai Phule Pune University. His academic foundation includes a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences and a Master’s degree in Pharmaceutics, complementing his long-standing commitment to research. Dr. Ratnaparkhi has an impressive research portfolio with 74 publications in reputed Scopus, Web of Science, UGC Care, and international indexed journals, addressing critical pharmaceutical challenges such as solubility enhancement, nanoformulations, targeted pulmonary delivery, nasal drug delivery, and advanced drug dispersion techniques. His work spans nanosponge systems, nanoemulgels, cubosomes, solid dispersions, and dry powder inhalation formulations, signifying his expertise in innovative and translational drug delivery approaches. He holds four patents (three granted and one filed), demonstrating originality and innovation, and has guided or collaborated on numerous research projects. Complementing his publication record, he has delivered 31 scientific presentations at national and international conferences, showcasing the continued relevance and impact of his research. His professional strengths include excellent communication, leadership, team management, and a strong research orientation, supported by early industrial training that broadened his practical understanding of pharmaceutical processes. With nearly two decades of academic service, consistent research productivity, significant innovation, mentorship roles, and contributions that influence modern drug delivery systems, Dr. Ratnaparkhi exemplifies the qualities of a high-impact researcher and stands as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

  1. Ratnaparkhi, M. P., & Suryawanshi, A. N. (2025). Development and characterization of novel cilnidipine-loaded nanosponge formulations. International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology, 15(3), 1198–1204.

  2. Kshirsagar, S. D., & Ratnaparkhi, M. (2025). Formulation and evaluation of propolis loaded nanosponges based topical anti-inflammatory gel. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, 59(4), 1–11.

  3. Tekade, A., Ratnaparkhi, M., Shewale, A., Shinde, R., Kulkarni, G., & Pawar, P. (2025). Design and assessment of in situ nasal gel incorporated with nanostructured cubosomes for the targeted therapy of schizophrenia. Journal of Research in Pharmacy, 29(3), 947–958.

  4. Ratnaparkhi, M., Binawade, B., Salvankar, S., Aswar, M., Jadhav, P., Parhad, P., Bhangare, S., & Dalvi, S. (2025). Intravaginal administration of metformin HCl loaded nanoemulgel for treatment of PCOS: In-vitro and in-vivo study. Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

  5. Ratnaparkhi, M. P., Tekade, A. R., Salvankar, S. S., Dalvi, S. D., Kulkarni, G. M., & Markand, M. G. (2025). RP-HPLC method development and validation for the quantification of remdesivir IV formulation. Indian Drug, 62(6), 45–49.

Dr. Ratnaparkhi’s research advances innovative drug-delivery systems that enhance therapeutic efficiency and patient outcomes. His work contributes to modern pharmaceutical science by translating nanotechnology-based formulations into practical healthcare solutions with global impact.

Christian Mathew | Engineering | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Christian Mathew | Engineering | Editorial Board Member 

Researcher | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | United States

Dr. Christian Chukwudi Mathew is a dedicated engineering researcher whose work spans solid mechanics, computational modeling, corrosion science, and the behavior of advanced materials, reflecting a rich academic journey rooted in Civil Engineering and advanced studies in Engineering Mechanics at Virginia Tech, where he serves as a Graduate Teaching and Research Fellow. With 24 publications, more than 3,200 reads, and over 300 citations, he has developed a strong research profile marked by innovation, multidisciplinary expertise, and a commitment to addressing real-world material challenges. His work integrates finite element modeling, phase field modeling, fracture mechanics, fatigue behavior, and composite materials, enabling him to explore how materials deform, crack, corrode, and fail under complex mechanical and environmental conditions. His doctoral research particularly emphasizes phase field numerical modeling of stress corrosion cracking, contributing refined multiphysics frameworks that couple electrochemical processes with mechanical responses in both isotropic and anisotropic materials. Beyond corrosion and fracture studies, he has contributed significantly to the mechanical characterization and modeling of multilayered composites, functionally graded materials, thin-walled structures, and fiber-reinforced concretes—collaborating extensively with researchers across institutions in the United States, Germany, and Nigeria. Earlier academic experiences include serving as an MSc researcher at TUD Dresden University of Technology and conducting research at the Federal University of Technology Owerri, roles that strengthened his foundation in structural mechanics and civil infrastructure materials. Christian has also authored impactful review works on cutting-edge topics such as AI-driven approaches for predicting stress corrosion cracking and advancements in the Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM), highlighting his capacity to bridge traditional engineering analysis with emerging computational innovations. His contributions extend to environmental studies, including investigations into heavy metal contamination and corrosion inhibition, demonstrating versatility beyond core mechanical research. Supported by collaborations with notable scholars and involvement in Yao Fu’s lab at Virginia Tech, Christian continues to advance scientific understanding in materials durability, computational mechanics, and structural integrity. His growing body of work positions him as a promising researcher whose expertise contributes to safer materials, more resilient infrastructure, and more predictive engineering models across academia and industry.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ResearchGate

Mathew, C., & Ejiofor, O. (2023). Mechanics and computational homogenization of effective material properties of functionally graded (composite) material plate FGM. International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, 13(9), 128-150.

Orie, K. J., & Christian, M. (2015). The corrosion inhibition of aluminium metal in 0.5 M sulphuric acid using extract of breadfruit peels. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET), 2(8).

Song, J., Matthew, C., Sangoi, K., & Fu, Y. (2023). A phase field model to simulate crack initiation from pitting site in isotropic and anisotropic elastoplastic material. Modelling and Simulation in Materials Science and Engineering, 31(5), 055002.

Mathew, C., & Adu-Gyamfi, E. (2025). A review on AI-driven environmental-assisted stress corrosion cracking properties of conventional and advanced manufactured alloys. Corrosion Engineering, Science and Technology, 60(2), 145-158.

 

Dr. Mathew, C. C., & Fu, Y. (2023). Least square finite element model for static analysis of rectangular, thick, multilayered composite and sandwich plates subjected under arbitrary boundary conditions. Thick, Multilayered Composite and Sandwich Plates Subjected Under Arbitrary Boundary Conditions.

 

Yen-Chien Chen | Economics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yen-Chien Chen | Economics | Best Researcher Award 

Associate Professor | National Taipei University | Taiwan

Dr. Yen-Chien Chen is a highly suitable candidate for a Best Researcher Award, with an impressive academic background and a strong, sustained record of impactful research in labor, family, and health economics. Holding a PhD from National Taiwan University and serving as an associate professor at National Taipei University, he has built a career marked by rigorous empirical work, interdisciplinary relevance, and contributions that directly inform social and economic policy. His publication record spans top-tier international journals such as Demography, Journal of Development Economics, Journal of Human Resources, Annals of Tourism Research, and Oxford Bulletin of Economics and Statistics, showcasing both depth and breadth in research themes including divorce outcomes, education, gender attitudes, political leadership, unemployment, monetary policy, and family dynamics. His forthcoming and recent works, particularly large-scale studies using administrative data, demonstrate methodological strength and policy-oriented insight, contributing significantly to global discussions on inequality, human capital formation, and socioeconomic behavior. Chen’s collaborations with leading economists further highlight his research credibility and influence in academic networks. His earlier contributions in American Economic Review and other respected outlets reflect a consistent trajectory of high-quality scholarship. Across his academic career, spanning positions at National Chi Nan University and National Taipei University, he has maintained a strong commitment to advancing economic knowledge through evidence-based findings that address real-world concerns in Taiwan and beyond. His research has notable societal relevance, illuminating how family structures, labor markets, and health dimensions shape individual and collective welfare. With nearly two decades of scholarly productivity, a diverse portfolio of impactful studies, and a clear dedication to advancing both theory and applied economics, Yen-Chien Chen exemplifies the qualities expected of an outstanding researcher whose work meaningfully contributes to academic progress and public policy development.

Profiles: ORCID | Scopus

Featured Publications

Chen, Y.-C., Fan, E., & Liu, J.-T. (2025). Divorce effects on teenagers’ higher education: Evidence from one million siblings in Taiwan. Demography.

Chen, Y.-C., Fan, E., Ho, Y.-H., Lee, M. Y.-H., & Liu, J.-T. (2025). The impact of female political leadership on gender attitudes: Evidence from Taiwan’s local councils. Journal of Development Economics, 174, 103451.

Chen, S. H., Chen, Y.-C., & Liu, J.-T. (2019). The impact of family composition on educational achievement. Journal of Human Resources, 54(1), 122–170.

Chen, C.-M., & Chen, Y.-C. (2018). Income source effect on retiree’s tourism behavior. Annals of Tourism Research, 68, 4–6.

Fan, E., Liu, J.-T., & Chen, Y.-C. (2017). Is the quarter of birth endogenous? New evidence from Taiwan, the US, and Indonesia. Oxford Bulletin of Economics and Statistics, 79(6), 1087–1124.

The nominee’s research advances scientific understanding of labor, family, and health economics by providing large-scale, evidence-based insights that shape policy and improve social welfare. His work informs government, education, and public-sector decisions, strengthening societal well-being and promoting equitable economic development. Through rigorous analysis and globally relevant findings, he contributes to innovation in data-driven policymaking and international economic research.

Andsera Adugna Mekonen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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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

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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

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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

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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.