Hongbin Yan | Applied Soft Computing | Research Excellence Award

Prof.  Hongbin Yan | Applied Soft Computing | Research Excellence Award

School of Business, East China University of Science and Technology | China 

Yan Hongbin is a professor of Management Science and Engineering at East China University of Science and Technology (ECUST), where he also serves as a PhD supervisor. He earned a PhD from the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, following earlier degrees in management from Dalian University of Technology. His teaching covers management information systems, information system analysis and design, IT service management (for MBA students), and research methodology for master and doctoral students. His research centers on decision analysis under uncertainty, new product development, service and quality management, technological innovation, and Kansei (emotion-based) engineering. Over his career, he has authored many peer-reviewed journal and conference papers in outlets such as Computers & Industrial Engineering, Omega, IISE Transactions and others; his work has attracted substantial scholarly attention. According to his public academic profile, his publications have been cited hundreds of times, and his citation count on one platform exceeds seven hundred. Overall, his scholarly output and impact place him among the active contributors in the fields of management science and decision support.

Profile: ORCID 

Featured  Publications 

Yan, H.-B., Qu, L., & Huynh, V.-N. (2025).
A probability based linguistic decision making approach to reliable Kano model for classifying quality attributes. Applied Soft Computing, 114381.

Chen, Z., Zhou, X., Zhang, Z., Yan, H., Niu, X., & Li, Y. (2025).
Using the decomposed theory of planned behavior and a structural equation model with partial least squares to investigate construction and demolition waste reduction behavior. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 15810.

Wang, W., Li, Y., Yan, H., Zhao, W., Zhao, Q., & Luo, K. (2025).
A two-phase algorithm for the dynamic time-dependent green vehicle routing problem in decoration waste collection. Expert Systems with Applications, 125570.

Sinan Başçeken | Pyrrole Compounds | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Sinan Başçeken | Pyrrole Compounds | Research Excellence Award

Hitit University | Turkey

Prof. Dr. Sinan Başçeken is a distinguished Turkish chemist recognized for his contributions to organic synthesis, catalysis, and advanced chemical methodology. He completed his foundational education in chemistry at Mersin University before advancing to the University of Paderborn, where he pursued both master’s and doctoral research that explored gas–liquid mass transfer phenomena and the preparative potential of novel chiral biaryl transition-metal catalysts. His academic career at Hitit University began with specialist and assistant professor roles, progressing to associate professor and ultimately professor in the Department of Chemistry, where he continues to contribute to teaching, research, and scientific leadership. Prof. Başçeken’s research encompasses organometallic chemistry, catalytic reaction mechanisms, heterocyclic synthesis, and innovative ligand-metal systems with applications in fine chemicals and materials science. He has supervised graduate research, including work on carbon-carbon coupling reactions such as Sonogashira functionalization of heterocyclic structures. His scholarly influence is reflected in an h-index of  with  citations and  published documents indexed in major scientific databases. Widely respected for his interdisciplinary approach, Prof. Başçeken continues to expand the frontiers of synthetic chemistry through rigorous experimentation, collaborative research, and impactful academic mentorship.

Profile: SCOPUS | ORCID 

Featured Publications 

Karakiliç, E., Başçeken, S., Eskiler, G. G., Uzuner, U., & Baran, A. (2025). Bioimaging of thiazolidine-4-one-based new probes, fluorimetric detection of Cu²⁺ “on–off” sensor property, DFT calculation, molecular docking studies, and multiple real samples application. Food Chemistry, 141269.

Mesci, S., Dumlupınar, S., & Başçeken, S. (2025). Synthesis and characterization of N-propargyl-3-nitropyrrole derivatives: In silico molecular docking studies, and cytotoxic activities in lung cancer. Journal of Molecular Structure, 144925.

Çiçek, E., Munar, İ., Çınar, S. A., Başçeken, S., Monard, G., Aviyente, V., & Sungur, F. A. (2025). Computational insights into substrate-assisted citrullination mechanisms of PAD2 isozyme: A comparative analysis of reaction pathways. Journal of Molecular Graphics and Modelling, 109107.

Çol, S., Başçeken, S., & Baran, A. (2024). Synthesis of biscarbazole derivative, detection of the “on–off” sensor property of Cu²⁺ by fluorimetry, and anti-cancer evaluation. Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, 124624.

Akbaba, Y., Çetinkaya, Y., Başçeken, S., Akıncıoğlu, A., & Göksu, S. (2024). Synthesis of β-lactams and transformation to β-amino acid ethyl ester derivatives: Theoretical calculations. Tetrahedron, 134247.

Pragti Saini | Mechanical recycling of polyolefins | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Pragti Saini | Mechanical recycling of polyolefins | Research Excellence Award

Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee | India 

Pragti Saini is a dedicated researcher in paper and packaging technology whose academic journey spans a strong foundation in organic chemistry and diverse industrial, analytical, and academic roles. She is currently pursuing her doctoral research at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, focusing on advanced materials, analytical chemistry, and sustainable packaging innovations. Her professional experience includes notable work on fluorinated aromatic carboxylic acids using solid-phase extraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry in collaboration with IIT Roorkee and ONGC, along with roles in quality control, green skill development, and rocket propulsion projects. She has also served as an assistant professor of chemistry, contributing to teaching and mentoring. Pragti is proficient in English, Hindi, and Punjabi, and skilled in key scientific software such as Origin, Turnitin, and X-Calibur, backed by extensive hands-on expertise with sophisticated analytical instruments spanning FT-IR, FE-SEM, XRD, ICP-MS, GC-MS, HPLC, and more. Her research output reflects strong scholarly engagement, supported by an h-index of , citation count of , and document contributions totaling , demonstrating her growing influence in the scientific community. Known for her leadership, analytical thinking, and commitment to high-quality work, she continues to contribute meaningfully to interdisciplinary research and innovation.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications 

Saini, P., Choudhari, A., Bhati, S. S., Dutt, D., & Le Calvé, S. (2026). Innovative zeolite-based approach for reducing VOCs and odors in post-consumer recycled polypropylene. Composites Science and Technology, Article 111470.

Saini, P., Bhati, S. S., Biswas, S., McDonald, T. O., & Dutt, D. (2025). Investigating sustainable approaches to reduce VOCs and odor from mechanically recycled polypropylene. RSC Sustainability.

Catharina Weiss  | Applied linguistics | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Catharina Weiss  | Applied linguistics | Research Excellence Award

Universitat Hamburg & Macquarie University | Germany 

Catharina Weiss is a dedicated PhD candidate in a joint doctorate programme between Universität Hamburg and Macquarie University, specialising in multilingualism, language education, and virtual exchange in primary schooling. With formal teaching qualifications for both primary and secondary education, she brings extensive classroom experience to her role as a practitioner-researcher. Her academic work integrates visual, multimodal, and ethnographic approaches to understand how linguistic diversity, digital learning, and international collaboration can enrich school-based language education. Catharina has contributed peer-reviewed publications that examine research on young learners of German and present an in-depth ethnographic analysis of a long-term virtual exchange between schools in Germany and Australia. Her ongoing doctoral project continues to advance knowledge on teacher agency and multilingual practices in digitally mediated learning environments. Although her h-index is currently at an emerging stage and her citation count and document index are in early development, her recent publications position her as a promising researcher whose work is gaining visibility in the field. She collaborates closely with international schools and is an active member of professional networks such as Next Generation Literacies and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Fremdsprachenforschung, contributing to research dialogues on multilingual education and innovative language-learning pedagogies.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications 

Weiss, C., Chik, A., Djonov, E., & Melo-Pfeifer, S. (2025). Voices, visuals, and virtual connections: Young language learners forming and constructing multilingual identity in a virtual exchange project. Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development. Advance online publication.

Weiss, C., Chik, A., Djonov, E., & Melo-Pfeifer, S. (2025). Young students learning German as a foreign language in primary school: A scoping review. International Journal of Bilingualism. Advance online publication.

Manal El Kassimi | Bank performance | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Manal El Kassimi | Bank performance | Research Excellence Award

ENCG Agadir Business School, Ibn Zohr University | Morocco

Manal El Kassimi is a dedicated scholar in Management Sciences specializing in Banking and Finance at Ibn Zohr University in Morocco, with a research profile marked by an h-index demonstrating steady scholarly influence, multiple academic documents, and citations reflecting the growing impact of her work. Her contributions include publications in internationally ranked journals and involvement in a major research project submitted under the Call for Projects launched by Ibn Zohr University. Alongside her research excellence, she has accumulated valuable teaching experience through tutorials and lectures in International Financial Management and Financial Markets at ENCG–Agadir and EMAA–Agadir, where she supports students in understanding complex financial concepts. Fluent in Arabic, English, and French, she bridges academic communication across linguistic contexts while advancing knowledge in areas related to banking performance, financial systems, and market dynamics. With a strong commitment to enhancing research quality and improving financial and banking practices, she continues to expand her academic footprint through ongoing publications, research collaborations, and participation in institutional initiatives aimed at promoting innovation within the financial sector.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications 

El Kassimi, M., El Badraoui, K., & Ouenniche, J. (2024). On the efficiency of US community banks around the COVID-19

Arash Pakravesh | Thermodynamics | Best Industrial Research Award

Dr. Arash Pakravesh | Thermodynamics | Best Industrial Research Award

Energy and Thermodynamics Research Organization (ENTRO) | Iran

Dr. Arash Pakravesh is a lead researcher at the energy and thermodynamics research organization (entro) with a strong academic foundation from bu‑ali sina university in hamedan, iran, where he completed his phd in physical chemistry. his work centers on thermodynamics, especially the development and parameterization of equations of state such as the statistical associating fluid theory (saft), which he applies to the thermodynamic modelling of fuels and industrial solvents. he has authored several peer‑reviewed articles and contributed significantly to the understanding of viscosity models for pure and binary mixtures of ethylene glycols and alkanolamines. his academic output includes 10 documented journal publications , and his collaborations span over twenty industry and academic partnerships, including a patent currently under process. he also provides consultancy services on around ten industry projects. in addition to his research, he holds editorial appointments at two scientific journals and is professionally affiliated with acs, ics, acse, case, and ief. his h‑index and total citation count are not publicly available, but his consistent publication record and ongoing industrial engagements underline his growing influence in thermodynamic research and hydrogen‑related technologies.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications 

Pakravesh, A. (2025, October 24). A review of cubic and statistical associating fluid theory equations of state for modeling supercritical hydrogen. Green Technology & Innovation.

Pakravesh, A. (2025, September 6). From molecules to industry: The expanding role of SAFT equation of state in engineering science. Clareus Scientific Science and Engineering.

Pakravesh, A., Mohammadi, A. H., & Richon, D. (2025, August). Modeling of supercritical hydrogen thermodynamic properties using cubic and SAFT type equations of state. The Journal of Supercritical Fluids.

Pakravesh, A., Mohammadi, A. H., & Richon, D. (2025, July). A comparative evaluation of friction theory, free-volume theory, entropy scaling, and Helmholtz energy scaling viscosity models coupled with the PρT-SAFT equation of state for pure and binary mixtures of ethylene glycols and alkanolamines. International Journal of Thermophysics.

Pakravesh, A., & Zarei, H. (2025, March 13). Thermodynamic modeling of pure, binary, and ternary mixtures of alkanolamines using three versions of SAFT equations of state. Journal of Chemical & Engineering Data.

Ali Olad | Polymer chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ali Olad | Polymer chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Tabriz | Iran

Ali Olad is a distinguished researcher at the department of applied chemistry, university of tabriz, known for his extensive work in polymer composites, nanocomposites, conducting polymers, polymer coatings, hydrogels, and corrosion‑electrochemistry. according to his public profile he has about 143 publications, and his work has garnered over 6,000 citations.his h‑index, which reflects both productivity and impact in his field, stands at a significant level (as listed on his profile). throughout his academic career, he has delivered courses ranging from industrial chemistry and electrochemistry at undergraduate level to advanced topics like polymer composites, coatings and conducting polymers at graduate and phd levels. his research has advanced understanding and practical applications in polymer nanocomposites, surface modification and protective coatings, conducting‑polymer blends, hydrogels, and corrosion prevention. his contributions have made a substantial impact in materials chemistry and polymer science, influencing both theoretical developments and real‑world applications. overall, ali olad’s blend of teaching and prolific research marks him as a leading figure in polymer and materials chemistry at his institution.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications 

Derakhshan, P., Olad, A., Salari, D., Mirmohseni, A., & Dilmaghani, A. (2025). Development of antimicrobial acrylate-based coatings containing clays modified with metallic nanocomposites for application on shoe leather. Surfaces and Interfaces.

Nazarlou, Z., Najjari, H., Olad, A., & Aydemir, U. (2025). Fluorine-free hydrophobic powder coatings: A sustainable approach using functionalized biogenic SiO2 for anticorrosion and antifouling applications. Surfaces and Interfaces.

Fathi, F., Nazarlou, Z., Aydemir, U., & Olad, A. (2025). Anti-icing and antibacterial super-hydrophobic poly(dimethyl siloxane) coatings modified with silica, TiO2, Ag3PO4, and CuO nanoparticles. Materials Chemistry and Physics.

Hezari, S., Olad, A., & Dilmaghani, A. (2024). Investigation of antibacterial properties and sustained release of Centella Asiatica extract from Fe-MOF-reinforced gelatin-based hydrogels. Polymer Bulletin.

Fazli, S., Hezari, S., & Olad, A. (2024). Preparation of hydrogels based on okra pods/chia seeds mucilage for drug delivery application. Polymer Bulletin.

Murtaza Jafari | Medical and Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmaceutics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Murtaza Jafari | Medical and Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmaceutics | Best Researcher Award

Cheragh University of Medical Sciences | Afghanistan

Murtaza Jafari is an Afghan scholar and Assistant Professor recognized for his contributions to biochemistry, genetics, and pharmaceutical sciences. He serves as a lecturer at leading higher-education institutions in Kabul, including Cheragh Medical Institute of Higher Education, Ghalib University, and the Farabi Institute of Medical Sciences, where he teaches biochemistry, biology, genetics, and pharmacy-related subjects while actively participating in research projects. He holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Kabul University and a Master of Science from Persian Gulf University, specializing in biochemical research and nanotechnology-based applications. His academic work includes the synthesis and application of cobalt ferrite magnetic nanoparticles coated with PEG and PEI, focusing on their use in purifying free and genomic DNA, as well as advancing magnetic nanoparticle-assisted DNA extraction methods. With expertise in computational biology tools such as PyMol, AutoDock Vina, AutoDock Tools, and Avogadro, along with strong command of SPSS, Microsoft Office, and modern digital platforms, he contributes to multidisciplinary research across pharmacy and biomedical sciences. His scientific output includes h-index: [provide], total documents: [provide], and citation count: [provide], reflecting his growing influence and academic impact. Fluent in Persian and proficient in English, he is dedicated to fostering scientific development and educational excellence in Afghanistan.

Profile: Google Scholar 

Featured Publications 

Jafari, M. (2022). Microbiological quality (yeast and mold) of dried fruits in Kabul, Afghanistan: A laboratory study. Global Scientific Review, 1, 19–28.

Jafari, M., Shahryar, S., Mohebbi, S., Ahmadi, A., Nazari, R., Haidari, A. R., … (2025). DNA nanostructures as promising anticancer agents: A narrative review. Cancer Treatment and Research Communications, 101029.

Amiri, S. H., Danish, S. M., Azimi, A. W., & Jafari, M. (2024). Gastric cancer incidence among patients referred to Jamhuriat Hospital, Kabul, Afghanistan: A cross-sectional study, 2023. American Journal of Pedagogical and Educational Research, 23.

Tawakuli, Y., Nazari, R., Rasoli, M. R., Jafari, M., & Sultani, F. (2022). Evaluation of narcotics prescribed in surgery: A descriptive study in Kabul, Afghanistan, 2022. Texas Journal of Medical Science, 10, 76–80.

Tawakuli, Y., Jafari, M., Taib, A., & Amiri, S. H. (2022). Evaluation of the risk factors of COVID-19 mortality in health centers of Kabul, Afghanistan: A descriptive cross-sectional study. American Journal of Technology and Applied Sciences, 3, 35–40.

Masanari Tomozawa | Battery Materials | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Masanari Tomozawa | Battery Materials | Research Excellence Award

JFE steel co | Japan

Masanari Tomozawa is an accomplished materials scientist and Group Leader at JFE Steel Corporation, recognized for his extensive expertise in metallic materials, shape memory alloys, and advanced electron microscopy–based characterization. He earned his doctoral degree in Engineering from the University of Tsukuba, where he specialized in the development of shape memory alloy thin films, laying the foundation for a distinguished research career. His professional journey has spanned leading Japanese research institutions, including the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, the National Institute for Materials Science, the Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry, Toray Research Center, and JFE Steel Corporation. Throughout his career, he has contributed significantly to innovations in materials development, microstructural analysis, and performance evaluation of advanced alloys. His scholarly output includes a strong portfolio of peer-reviewed journals indexed in SCI and Scopus, patents in progress and published, and impactful research collaborations with industry. He has also engaged in major consultancy and R&D projects that support technological advancements in the steel and materials sectors. His academic footprint reflects an h-index of [H-INDEX], with  citations and published documents, demonstrating his sustained influence and continued contributions to the scientific community.

Profile: Scopus 

Featured Publications 

AuthorLastName, A. A., AuthorLastName, B. B., AuthorLastName, C. C., … (2025). Microstructural analysis of reduced multicomponent calcium ferrite using STEM-EDS and 3DAP. Tetsu-to-Hagane: Journal of the Iron and Steel Institute of Japan, Volume(Issue), page–page.

Bogdan Majkusiak | Tunneling | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Bogdan Majkusiak | Tunneling | Research Excellence Award

Warsaw Unversity of Technology | Poland

Bogdan Majkusiak is a distinguished Polish scientist and Professor at the Warsaw University of Technology, renowned for his influential contributions to electronics, semiconductor physics, and microelectronics. He progressed through successive academic degrees at the Faculty of Electronics and rose from technician to a leading academic figure, shaping the field through extensive research, teaching, and leadership. His career includes significant service as Associate Dean, Senior Associate Dean, Rector’s Representative for English Language Studies, and long-standing membership in faculty and scientific councils. He has played a central role in international scientific events, serving on steering and technical program committees for major conferences such as INFOS, IWCE, and Diagnostic and Yield, as well as acting as General Chair of INFOS in Krakow. His expertise has been recognized through appointments as an expert for national research and accreditation bodies. Majkusiak’s scholarly output includes impactful book chapters on multigate MOS physics and nanoscale CMOS modeling, reflecting his deep contributions to device simulation and semiconductor technology. He is widely cited in the global research community, with an h-index of, citation count of, and indexed documents, underscoring his enduring influence on microelectronics research and semiconductor device engineering.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications 

Jasiński, J., Mazurak, A., & Majkusiak, B. (2016). Effect of interface traps parameters on admittance characteristics of the MIS (metal–insulator–semiconductor) tunnel structures. Proceedings of SPIE – The International Society for Optical Engineering.

Mazurak, A., Jasiński, J., & Majkusiak, B. (2016). Effect of nanocrystal geometric location on tunnel currents and small-signal admittance of MIS structures. Physica Status Solidi (C): Current Topics in Solid State Physics.

Tanous, D., Mazurak, A., & Majkusiak, B. (2016). Impact of nanocrystal(s) location on C-V-t and I-V-t characteristics of ncMOS structures. Proceedings of SPIE – The International Society for Optical Engineering.

Wiśniewski, P., & Majkusiak, B. (2016). Modeling of tunnel field effect transistor: The impact of construction parameters. Proceedings of SPIE – The International Society for Optical Engineering.

Wiśniewski, P., Mroczyński, R., & Majkusiak, B. (2016). Reactive Ion Etching (RIE) of silicon for the technology of nanoelectronic devices and structures. Proceedings of SPIE – The International Society for Optical Engineering.