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.

Dr. Hengzhi Hu – Applied Linguistics – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hengzhi Hu - Applied Linguistics - Best Researcher Award

Universiti Kebangssan Malaysia - Malaysia

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

ORCID

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Hengzhi Hu embarked on their academic journey with a Bachelor of Arts in French from Shanghai International Studies University, graduating in 2016. Demonstrating an early passion for language education, Hu pursued a Master’s degree in Teaching Secondary Education at Monash University, Australia, achieving a high distinction with a GPA of 3.625 in 2020. This solid foundation in foreign language pedagogy and secondary education set the stage for Hu's future contributions to the field.

🎓 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Hu's professional career is marked by significant roles in educational institutions across Malaysia and Australia. Currently serving as the Principal Examiner for the Higher Education English Test (HEET) at The National University of Malaysia, Hu ensures the test's integrity and oversees the evaluation of speaking and writing sections. Additionally, Hu has been actively involved in the Intensive English Programme, delivering comprehensive language instruction and fostering an inclusive learning environment. Their experience extends to teaching assistant roles, where Hu has supported TESOL students from Lancaster University, promoting multiculturalism and enhancing pedagogical practices.

🧑‍🏫 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Hengzhi Hu's research interests encompass Bilingual Education, Second Language Acquisition (SLA), and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Their scholarly contributions include a diverse range of publications in reputable journals. Hu has explored various Applied Linguistics dimensions of content and language integrated learning (CLIL), from teacher competencies to the integration of technology in language learning. Notable works include studies on the impact of TikTok in mobile-assisted language learning and the role of first language use in foreign language classrooms.

🏆 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Hu's dedication to the field has been recognized through numerous peer-reviewed publications and book reviews. Their research on CLIL and English-medium instruction (EMI) has garnered attention, contributing to the advancement of language education methodologies. Hu's role as a peer reviewer for esteemed journals such as the International Journal of Information and Education Technology and Higher Learning Research Applied Linguistics Communications highlights their standing in the academic community.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Hengzhi Hu's work has had a profound impact on language education, particularly in the context of Malaysia and China. Their studies on the employability of Chinese international doctoral students in Malaysian universities and the sustainability of CLIL in China have provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in bilingual education. Hu's collaborative efforts with colleagues and institutions have fostered Applied Linguistics innovative approaches to language teaching and curriculum development.

🔬 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Hengzhi Hu aims to further bridge gaps in CLIL research and practice, emphasizing the importance of multilingualism and cross-cultural understanding. Their ongoing projects and upcoming publications continue to shape the future of language education, ensuring that their legacy will be one of innovation, inclusivity, and academic excellence.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS