Uchenna Kingsley Okeke | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Uchenna Kingsley Okeke | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Uchenna Kingsley Okeke | University of Johannesburg | South Africa

A dedicated researcher and educator, this academic professional has established a strong interdisciplinary footprint in Physics Education, STEM/STEAM pedagogy, and curriculum innovation. Their work spans instructional strategy design, educational assessment, and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems into science education, with a particular emphasis on decolonizing STEM pedagogy and advancing gender-responsive teaching aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4. With teaching and research experience across university and secondary school settings, they have contributed significantly to the development of physics education through innovative instructional approaches, classroom engagement research, and psychomotor domain advancement within STEAM frameworks. Their scholarly achievements include numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and conference proceedings covering topics such as cognitively guided instruction, contextualized physics pedagogy, assessment practices, student mental health, and gender-related barriers in STEM. Their research also explores comparative instructional models, students’ learning difficulties, cognitive development, and the role of science education in fostering social dimensions of scientific understanding. In addition to publishing in respected international journals, they serve as a peer reviewer for several academic outlets, demonstrating commitment to scholarly quality and academic leadership. The candidate’s professional experience includes university-level instruction, curriculum development, supervision of teaching practicums, and management of school-wide academic programmes. They possess expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methods, especially SPSS statistical analysis and thematic interpretation of qualitative data. Their contributions extend to professional development initiatives for educators and community-based engagement focused on social and environmental issues. They have presented research at international conferences and participated in capacity-building programmes and workshops dedicated to gender equity, African studies, and early-career research development. Their academic competencies span instructional design, assessment development, cross-cultural collaboration, and evidence-based teaching practices. As an active member of relevant professional bodies, they continue to contribute to the growth of science education through research, leadership, and transformative educational practice.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | LinkedIn| Research Gate

Featured Publications

Okeke, U. K., & Ramaila, S. (2025). Decolonizing secondary school science education through contextualized instruction: An exploration of the nature of science, adaptive expertise, instructional implications and pedagogical frameworks for knowledge integration. Social Sciences & Humanities Open, 11, 101614. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssaho.2025.101614

Okeke, U. K., & Ramaila, S. (2025). Reimagining the psychomotor domain: Pedagogical implications of STEAM education. Education Sciences, 15(11), 1497. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15111497

Okeke, U. K. (2025). Instructional design considerations: Cognitive development and physics comprehension in secondary education. International Journal of Studies in Psychology, 5(2), 1–4.

Okeke, U. K., & Ramaila, S. (2025, June 28). Teachers’ TPACK: Evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of online assessment in K-12 science instruction. In Education and New Developments (END) 2025 Conference Proceedings (pp. 171–174).

Okeke, U. K., & Ramaila, S. (2025, June 28). The emergence of STEAM and its pedagogical implications: A re-evaluation of the psychomotor domain. In Education and New Developments (END) 2025 Conference Proceedings (pp. 151–155).

Adeduyigbe, A. M., Ukoh, E. E., & Okeke, U. K. (2025). Influence of gender on secondary school physics students’ learning difficulties in electricity. Physics Education, 60, 025017. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6552/adab5d

Decheng Li | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Decheng Li | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Decheng Li | Lanzhou University of Technology | China

Dr. Decheng Li, a distinguished scholar at the School of Automation and Electrical Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, has made substantial contributions to intelligent control systems, robotics, optimization algorithms, and renewable energy integration. His research consistently bridges theoretical innovation with real-world engineering needs, and his recent work on high-precision optical measurement systems exemplifies this commitment to impactful technological advancement. In the 2025 journal article “Robust hybrid decentralized controller design for Voice Coil Actuator–Fast Steering Mirror (VCA–FSM) system in high-precision optical measurements”, co-authored by Jiabin Liu and Hui Chen and published in Measurement, Dr. Li presents a novel control solution for improving accuracy and stability in fast optical beam steering applications. VCA–FSM systems are critical components in laser communication, adaptive optics, precision imaging, and spaceborne measurement instruments, where rapid response and minimal error are essential. However, these systems often encounter challenges such as parameter uncertainties, external disturbances, nonlinear coupling between axes, and stringent precision requirements. The study introduces a hybrid decentralized control strategy that integrates robust control principles with intelligent algorithmic tuning. This decentralized architecture allows each axis of the FSM to be controlled independently while mitigating cross-axis interference. The hybrid approach combines model-based design with adaptive mechanisms to enhance disturbance rejection and maintain system stability under uncertain conditions. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed controller significantly improves tracking accuracy, dynamic response, and robustness compared to conventional centralized or purely model-based controllers. Dr. Li’s contribution not only advances the performance of VCA–FSM platforms but also offers a generalizable framework for other high-precision mechatronic systems. His ongoing work continues to strengthen the integration of automation, intelligent control, and advanced signal processing to achieve next-generation smart engineering solutions.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publication

Liu, J., Li, D., & Chen, H. (2025). “Robust hybrid decentralized controller design for Voice Coil Actuator-Fast Steering Mirror system in high-precision optical measurements.

Kenju Otsuka | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kenju Otsuka | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kenju Otsuka | TS3L Research | Japan

The nomination highlights an accomplished researcher whose work spans laser physics, quantum electronics, self-mixing laser metrology, and nonlinear optical dynamics. Their academic background reflects decades of contributions to the development of advanced solid-state laser systems and the fundamental understanding of dynamic behavior in optical environments. The researcher has completed significant investigations, including the invention of stoichiometric laser crystals enabling highly efficient microchip lasers, as well as pioneering methods for controlling transverse laser modes through pump-beam modulation. Their studies on nonlinear dynamics—such as antiphase behavior, clustering phenomena, and chaotic itinerancy—have shaped theoretical and experimental approaches in optical complex systems. Current research focuses on advancing self-mixing metrology using thin-slice solid-state lasers with ultra-high sensitivity for measuring non-cooperative objects. This includes groundbreaking progress on laser-diode-pumped ruby lasers designed for extreme-precision sensing applications. The researcher has led several major projects in this domain, including development of thin-slice Cr:Al₂O₃ lasers aimed at pushing the limits of metrological sensitivity. Their scholarly output is extensive, with thousands of citations, numerous indexed journal publications, authored book chapters, and a monograph on nonlinear optical dynamics. They also hold multiple patents related to laser technologies, reflecting a strong innovation portfolio. The researcher has maintained active collaborations with leading scientists and institutions, contributing significantly to the global optics and photonics community. In addition to research achievements, they have served in editorial roles and hold prestigious fellowships in internationally recognized scientific societies, acknowledging their influence in laser science, photonic device engineering, and nonlinear dynamics. Their contributions to self-mixing laser metrology, laser mode manipulation, and the exploration of complex optical behaviors continue to advance precision measurement and optical system design.

Profiles:  Orcid | Google Scholar | LinkedIn | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2025). Harmonics-assisted 50-fold optical phase amplification with a self-mixing thin-slice Nd:GdVO₄ laser with wide-aperture laser-diode pumping. Photonics, 12(11), Article 1098. https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12111098

Sudo, S., & Otsuka, K. (2025). Evaluation of thermal expansion of elastomer using self-mixing vibrometry with thin-slice solid laser. Journal of Applied Physics, 138(4), Article 0281888. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0281888

Sudo, S., & Otsuka, K. (2024). Self-mixing thinly sliced ruby laser for laser Doppler velocimetry with high optical sensitivity. Optics Continuum, 3(11), Article 532807. https://doi.org/10.1364/OPTCON.532807

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2023). Spiking ruby revisited: Self-induced periodic spiking oscillations leading to chaotic state in a Cr:Al₂O₃ laser with cw 532-nm pumping. Optics Continuum, 2(9), Article 497640. https://doi.org/10.1364/OPTCON.497640

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2023). Erratum: Nonlinear dynamics of a self-mixing thin-slice solid-state laser subjected to Doppler-shifted optical feedback [Phys. Rev. E, 104, 044203 (2021)]. Physical Review E, 108(3), 039901. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.108.039901

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2022). Self-mixing interference in a thin-slice solid-state laser with few feedback photons per observation period. Physical Review A, 106(5), 053504. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.106.053504

Dr. Nuno Almeida | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award | 2598

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Dr. Nuno Almeida | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nuno Almeida | Universidade do Algarve | Portugal

Dr. Nuno Miguel Forra Almeida is an academic and professional psychologist specializing in Work, Social, and Organizational Psychology. He serves as an Assistant Guest Lecturer at the Faculty of Human and Social Sciences of the University of Algarve (FCHS-UAlg) and holds specialist recognition from the Portuguese Psychologists Association (OPP) as well as EuroPsy qualification from the European Federation of Psychologists’ Associations (EFPA). He is also affiliated with FAROTESTE – Psychological Assessment.Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology at the University of Algarve, his research focuses on electoral abstention among young people, integrating psychological, behavioral, political, and communicational dimensions. He is actively involved as a Collaborating Researcher in two research centers: the Center for Research in Psychology (CIP) at Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa and the University Center for Psychological Research (CUIP) at the University of Algarve. In addition, he contributes to the OPP’s pool of psychologists for crisis and catastrophe intervention. Dr. Almeida has a robust academic background, holding a Master’s degree in Social and Organizational Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Algarve. His professional development includes extensive specialized training across diverse domains such as ergonomics, psychological evaluation, neuro-linguistic programming, information security, artificial intelligence workflows, and intervention with vulnerable populations including refugees and LGBTQ individuals. His teaching and research are complemented by practical involvement in supervision of academic and professional internships, psychometric testing, and consultancy in work and organizational settings. Through his academic and professional trajectory, he demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, innovation in psychological assessment, and the integration of digital tools in psychological research and education. His scholarly and professional interests converge on understanding human behavior in social and organizational contexts, promoting psychological well-being in workplaces, and exploring the psychological underpinnings of civic engagement and political participation among youth.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Almeida, N., & Giger, J.-C. (2025). Unraveling the heterogeneity of electoral abstention: Profiles, motivations, and paths to a more inclusive democracy in Portugal. Social Sciences, 14(10), 601.

Giger, J.-C., Piçarra, N., Pochwatko, G., Almeida, N., & Almeida, A. S. (2025). Intention to work with social robots: The role of perceived robot use self-efficacy, attitudes towards robots, and beliefs in human nature uniqueness. Multimodal Technologies and Interaction, 9(2), 9.

Giger, J.-C., Piçarra, N., Pochwatko, G., Almeida, N., Almeida, A. S., Costa, N., & Duradoni, M. (2024). Development of the Beliefs in Human Nature Uniqueness Scale and its associations with perception of social robots. Human Behavior and Emerging Technologies, Article ID 5569587.

Gonçalves, G., Sousa, C., Fernandes, M. J., Almeida, N., & Sousa, A. (2023). Restorative effects of biophilic workplace and nature exposure during working time: A systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(21), 6986.

Almeida, N., & Giger, J.-C. (2025, January 23). The absent vote: Unraveling social representations of electoral abstention among students and non-student voters. In X Jornadas Internacionais de Iniciação à Investigação Científica em Psicologia (J3ICP).

 

Nicola Cantasano | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nicola Cantasano | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nicola Cantasano | National Research Council of Italy | Italy

Dr. Nicola Cantasano’s research integrates marine biology, astrobiology, and freshwater ecosystem monitoring, focusing on developing innovative methodologies to measure, map, and interpret complex ecological systems on Earth and beyond. His work spans both marine and planetary environments, uniting biological and geological perspectives to enhance understanding of life’s signatures in diverse contexts. In marine science, he has made significant contributions to the taxonomy of seaweeds, monitoring of Posidonia oceanica meadows, and the management of beach-cast seagrasses, which are vital for Mediterranean coastal stability and biodiversity. His studies have also explored the surveillance of invasive algal species such as Caulerpa racemosa, contributing to regional environmental management and conservation strategies. Through the development of water mapping and ecological assessment methods, including the Indice di Funzionalità Fluviale (I.F.F.), he has advanced tools for evaluating the ecological status of fluvial systems, particularly within the Calabrian region. Dr. Cantasano’s research extends into astrobiology, where he investigates potential biosignatures on Mars by analyzing digital imagery from NASA missions. He explores analogies between terrestrial stromatolites—layered microbial structures formed by cyanobacteria—and Martian organosedimentary formations, proposing biogenic interpretations of textures observed in Martian rocks. This work contributes to the broader understanding of planetary habitability and the possible existence of ancient microbial life on Mars. His extensive publications cover topics such as marine and freshwater ecosystem management, coastal zone conservation, nutrient dynamics, and biogeochemical assessments. He has published in leading journals including Ocean & Coastal Management, International Journal of Astrobiology, Plant Biosystems, and Rendiconti Lincei. By bridging marine ecology and planetary science, his research provides innovative frameworks for sustainable ecosystem management on Earth and supports the scientific quest for life beyond it.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Research Gate

Featured Publications 

Cantasano, N. (2025). Ecological and fluvial corridor of the Verri Stream as a connecting step in the Natura 2000 network along the Calabria coastal region, Italy. Environments, 12(11), 426. https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12110426

Cantasano, N., Di Martino, V., & Pellicone, G. (2024). The invasion of Caulerpa cylindracea Sonder 1845 in the Calabria coastal seas. Coasts, 4(1), 3. https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts4010003

Ietto, F., Pellicone, G., & Cantasano, N. (2023). Silting process and loss of Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Tyrrhenian waters of Calabria (Southern Italy). Sustainability, 15(17), 13102. https://doi.org/10.3390/su151713102

Ietto, F., Pellicone, G., & Cantasano, N. (2023, May 25). Silting process and loss of Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Tyrrhenian Calabria waters (Southern Italy). Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202305.1751.v1

Cantasano, N. (2022). Marine pollution by microplastics in the Mediterranean Sea. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 10(7), 858. https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse10070858

Bentaallah, M. E. A., Taibi, N. E., & Cantasano, N. (2021). Additional new records of Caulerpa cylindracea Sonder 1845 along the West Algerian coasts. Indian Journal of Geo-Marine Sciences, 50(1), 97–103.*

Cantasano, N., Caloiero, T., Pellicone, G., Aristodemo, F., De Marco, A., & Tagarelli, G. (2021). Can ICZM contribute to the mitigation of erosion and of human activities threatening the natural and cultural heritage of the coastal landscape of Calabria? Sustainability, 13(3), 1122. https://doi.org/10.3390/su13031122

 

Sharon Youmans | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sharon Youmans | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sharon Youmans | University of California San Francisco School of Pharmacy | United States 

Dr. Sharon Lynn Youmans is a distinguished leader in pharmacy education, health literacy, and diversity advancement within academic health sciences. With a Doctor of Pharmacy and a Master’s in Public Health, she has built an influential career integrating clinical pharmacy practice, education, and leadership. Over the past three decades, she has held progressive academic and administrative positions at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Pharmacy, where she currently serves as Executive Vice Dean and Professor of Clinical Pharmacy. Her leadership extends to the UCSF School of Dentistry as Associate Dean for Community Engagement, demonstrating her broad impact on interprofessional collaboration and community health outreach. Her scholarly and service contributions focus on health communication, health disparities, diversity, equity, inclusion, and global health. Dr. Youmans has played an instrumental role in shaping pharmacy education through curriculum transformation, experiential learning innovations, and national leadership in accreditation and professional organizations such as AACP, ACPE, and ASHP. She has served as an evaluator and consultant on pharmacy education programs worldwide, contributing to global standards in health science education. An accomplished educator, she has been recognized with numerous awards, including multiple UCSF Apple Awards for Teaching, the UCSF Chancellor’s Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Award, and induction into the Haile T. Debas Academy of Medical Educators. Her leadership in promoting diversity and addressing health disparities has earned national recognition from professional pharmacy associations. Through her extensive invited lectures and scholarly activities, Dr. Youmans has advanced dialogue on cultural competence, health equity, curriculum reform, and workforce development in pharmacy. Her ongoing work continues to inspire innovation in pharmacy education, advocate for equitable healthcare delivery, and strengthen academic excellence and community impact across the health professions.

Profiles: Google Scholar | LinkedIn 

Featured Publications 

Schillinger, D., Hammer, H., Wang, F., Palacios, J., McLean, I., Tang, A., & Youmans, S. L. (2008). Seeing in 3-D: Examining the reach of diabetes self-management support strategies in a public health care system. Health Education & Behavior, 35(5), 664–682. https://doi.org/10.1177/1090198107303316

Youmans, S. L., & Schillinger, D. (2003). Functional health literacy and medication use: The pharmacist’s role. Annals of Pharmacotherapy, 37(11), 1726–1729. https://doi.org/10.1345/aph.1D166

Robles, J. R., Youmans, S. L., Byrd, D. C., & Polk, R. E. (2009). Perceived barriers to scholarship and research among pharmacy practice faculty: Survey report from the AACP Scholarship/Research Faculty Development Task Force. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 73(1), Article 17. https://doi.org/10.5688/aj730117

Nkansah, N. T., Youmans, S. L., Agness, C. F., & Assemi, M. (2009). Fostering and managing diversity in schools of pharmacy. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 73(8), Article 152. https://doi.org/10.5688/aj7308152

Mandap, M., Carrillo, S., & Youmans, S. L. (2014). An evaluation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) health education in pharmacy school curricula. Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning, 6(6), 752–758. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cptl.2014.06.011

Bautista, C. A., Huang, I., Stebbins, M., Floren, L. C., Wamsley, M., Youmans, S. L., & others. (2020). Development of an interprofessional rotation for pharmacy and medical students to perform telehealth outreach to vulnerable patients in the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Interprofessional Care, 34(5), 694–697. https://doi.org/10.1080/13561820.2020.1810253

JeanMarie Farrow | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. JeanMarie Farrow | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. JeanMarie Farrow | Georgia State University | United States

Dr. JeanMarie Farrow’s research centers on understanding and improving the factors within early childhood education that influence children’s language and literacy development, particularly in high-need settings. Her work systematically examines how teacher–child interactions and classroom practices contribute to oral language growth and early writing skills. Through both small- and large-scale empirical studies, she investigates effective models of professional development that enhance teachers’ capacity to implement evidence-based, language-rich instruction. Her research integrates theoretical and applied perspectives to identify feasible, sustainable approaches for strengthening early literacy and composing skills. A major strand of her scholarship explores the mechanisms underlying children’s oral language development, highlighting how teachers’ feedback, syntax, and conversational features shape vocabulary acquisition. Another line of inquiry focuses on early writing instruction as a pathway for language development, illustrating how structured composing activities and high-quality teaching strategies can foster creative and linguistic growth. In addition, she has contributed to advancing teacher professional learning by examining innovative approaches, including the role of project-based learning, coaching, and professional inquiry in supporting instructional improvement. Her studies, published in leading journals such as Journal of Child Language, Reading & Writing Quarterly, Early Childhood Education Journal, and Teaching and Teacher Education, contribute to the evidence base for designing effective professional development that bridges research and classroom practice. By connecting instructional theory, empirical findings, and practical application, her work provides actionable insights for educators, researchers, and policymakers seeking to promote equitable literacy outcomes. Supported by national research grants, her scholarship advances the understanding of how early education environments can be optimized to nurture children’s oral and written language development while equipping teachers with sustainable, research-informed pedagogical tools.

Profiles: Google Scholar | LinkedIn | Research Gate

Featured Publications 

Farrow, J. M., Wasik, B. A., & Hindman, A. H. (2020). Exploring the unique contributions of teachers’ syntax to preschoolers’ and kindergarteners’ vocabulary learning. Early Childhood Research Quarterly, 51, 178–190.

Farrow, M. J., & Farrow, J. M. (2019). Recognizing intergenerational assets within religious communities of colour. Journal of Childhood Studies, 71–84.

Hindman, A. H., Farrow, J. M., & Wasik, B. A. (2021). Understanding child-directed speech around book reading in toddler classrooms: Evidence from early head start programs. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 719783.

Hindman, A. H., Farrow, J. M., & Wasik, B. A. (2022). Teacher–child conversations in preschool: Insights into how teacher feedback supports language development. Topics in Language Disorders, 42(4), 336–359.

Wasik, B. A., Farrow, J. M., & Hindman, A. H. (2022). More than “Good job!”: The critical role of teacher feedback in classroom discourse and language development. The Reading Teacher, 75(6), 733–738.

Farrow, J. M., Schneider Kavanagh, S., & Samudra, P. (2022). Exploring relationships between professional development and teachers’ enactments of project-based learning. Education Sciences, 12(4), 282.

Sylvia Mangani | Medical Discoveries | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Sylvia Mangani | Medical Discoveries | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Sylvia Mangani | University of Patras | Greece

Sylvia Mangani is a biochemist–biotechnologist and PhD candidate in Biochemistry at the University of Patras, whose research centers on cancer biology, particularly the influence of the extracellular matrix on tumor growth and regulation through 3D cell culture systems. Her academic journey combines strong foundations in biochemistry and biotechnology (BSc, MSc) with advanced experimental and analytical expertise. Her work integrates a broad range of molecular and cellular biology techniques, including quantitative PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, functional assays, and RNA sequencing, complemented by bioinformatics analysis for gene expression and signaling pathway interpretation. Her research has significantly contributed to understanding how 3D cellular microenvironments influence cancer progression, focusing on breast cancer models. She has authored 12 peer-reviewed publications in recognized international journals, with her work cited over 55 times according to Google Scholar, reflecting growing recognition within the scientific community. Her contributions have also supported award-winning synthetic biology initiatives under the iGEM program and have been presented at national and international scientific conferences. She has established productive collaborations with prominent research institutions in Greece and abroad. Notably, she completed a funded Erasmus+ research placement at the University Hospital of Münster, Germany, under the supervision of Prof. Martin Götte, where she engaged in experimental oncology projects exploring cancer cell behavior and matrix interactions. She has also collaborated with the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens on biochemical and molecular analyses within the Laboratory of Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Molecular Analysis. A member of the Hellenic Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (HSBMB), she actively contributes to the advancement of biochemical and cancer research in Greece and Europe. Her ongoing studies aim to deepen the understanding of tumor–matrix dynamics in breast cancer, offering new insights for therapeutic innovation and cancer model development, positioning her among emerging researchers in molecular oncology.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar | LinkedIn | Research Gate

Featured Publications 

Mangani, S., Piperigkou, Z., Mangani, S., Koletsis, N. E., Koutsakis, C., Mastronikolis, N. S., Franchi, M., & Karamanos, N. K. (2025, August). Principal mechanisms of extracellular matrix‐mediated cell–cell communication in physiological and tumor microenvironments. The FEBS Journal. https://doi.org/10.1111/febs.70207

Mangani, S., Vetoulas, M., Mineschou, K., Spanopoulos, K., Vivanco, M. d. M., Piperigkou, Z., & Karamanos, N. K. (2025, July 15). Design and applications of extracellular matrix scaffolds in tissue engineering and regeneration. Cells, 14(14), 1076. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14141076

Franchi, M., Masola, V., Onisto, M., Franchi, L., Mangani, S., Zolota, V., Piperigkou, Z., & Karamanos, N. K. (2025, July 7). Ultrastructural changes of the peri-tumoral collagen fibers and fibrils array in different stages of mammary cancer progression. Cells, 14(13), 1037. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14131037

Karamanos, N. K., Piperigkou, Z., Gourdoupi, C., Mangani, S., & Vivanco, M. d. M. (2025, June 1). Extracellular matrix matters: Matrix-based bioscaffolds in advancing translational cancer research and targeted therapy. American Journal of Physiology-Cell Physiology, 328(6), C1235–C1251. https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpcell.00050.2025

Ciampelli, C., Mangani, S., Nieddu, G., Formato, M., Ioannou, P., Kremmydas, S., Karamanos, N., & Lepedda, A. J. (2025, March). Effects of acidic polysaccharide-enriched extracts from Holothuria tubulosa on two- and three-dimensional invasive breast cancer cell models. Biology, 14(4), 334. https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14040334

Mangani, S., Kremmydas, S., & Karamanos, N. K. (2025, March). Mimicking the complexity of solid tumors: How spheroids could advance cancer preclinical transformative approaches. Cancers, 17(7), 1161. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17071161

Gustavo Darrigran | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Gustavo Darrigran | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gustavo Darrigran | Research Scientist of the National Scientific and Technical Research Council | Argentina

Dr. Gustavo Darrigran is a distinguished Argentine biologist and malacologist whose career has been centered on the ecology, systematics, and environmental impact of freshwater and marine mollusks. A Doctor in Natural Sciences (Zoology) from the Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), he has over four decades of academic and research experience at national and international levels. His doctoral thesis, “Aspectos Ecológicos de la Malacofauna Litoral del Río de la Plata”, laid the foundation for his lifelong research on aquatic invertebrates, particularly invasive bivalve species that have transformed South American freshwater ecosystems. Dr. Darrigran is recognized as one of Latin America’s leading experts on aquatic bioinvasions, focusing on invasive mollusks such as Limnoperna fortunei and Corbicula fluminea. His research has advanced understanding of species invasion dynamics, ecological impacts on native biodiversity, and bioindicator applications for environmental monitoring. Through collaborations with international organizations—including the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Zoological Society of London, and the Encyclopedia of Life—he has contributed to global conservation initiatives, notably the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and the Libro Rojo de Moluscos Argentinos (2020–2025), which he coordinated. A prolific educator, Dr. Darrigran has held professorships at UNLP’s Faculties of Natural Sciences and Humanities, teaching zoology, ecology, and conservation biology. He has also been an invited lecturer in postgraduate programs across Argentina, Brazil, and Spain. His mentorship has fostered a generation of scientists dedicated to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. His scientific contributions and leadership have earned him numerous honors, including the Científico Cultural Award from Prefectura Naval Argentina, the MercoPremio Award (Brazil), and recognition as an Honorary Member of the Félix de Azara Natural History Foundation. Dr. Darrigran’s career exemplifies excellence in research, education, and international cooperation toward the sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems.

Profiles: Orcid

Featured Publications 

De Lucía, M., Darrigran, G., & Gutiérrez Gregoric, D. E. (2023). Diversity of non-marine mollusks in the southernmost Paranaense forest of the world. Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências, 95(1), e20220212. https://doi.org/10.1590/0001-3765202320220212

Roche, A., Cetra, N., Nuñez, V., & Darrigran, G. (2023, April 25). Catálogo de las especies de Nudibranchia (Gastropoda: Heterobranchia) de la Colección de Moluscos del Museo de La Plata, Argentina. Acta Zoológica Lilloana, 67(1), e2023-04-13. https://doi.org/10.30550/j.azl/2023.67.1/2023-04-13

Darrigran, G., Agudo-Padrón, I., Baez, P., Belz, C., Cardoso, F., Collado, G. A., Correoso, M., Cuezzo, M. G., Damborenea, C., Fabres, A. A., et al. (2023, March). Species movements within biogeographic regions: Exploring the distribution of transplanted mollusc species in South America. Biological Invasions, 25(3), 1007–1023. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-022-02942-z

De Lucía, M., Darrigran, G., & Gutiérrez Gregoric, D. E. (2023, January). The most problematic freshwater invasive species in South America, Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker, 1857), and its status after 30 years of invasion. Aquatic Sciences, 85(1), 7. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00027-022-00907-x

Darrigran, G., Custodio, H., Legarralde, T. I., & Vilches, A. M. (2022, November 30). Colecciones biológicas y virtualidad: Un recurso para la enseñanza de la biodiversidad. Bio-grafía, 16(30), 17823. https://doi.org/10.17227/bio-grafia.vol.16.num30-17823

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Alexey Beskopylny | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Prof. Dr. Alexey Beskopylny | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Alexey Beskopylny | Don State Technical University | Russia

Dr. Alexey N. Beskopylny, Doctor of Technical Sciences and Professor, currently serves as Vice-Rector at Don State Technical University and works in the Department of Transport Systems. A distinguished researcher in civil and materials engineering, his work focuses on advanced construction materials, sustainable concrete technologies, and the integration of artificial intelligence in structural analysis. Over his prolific career, he has authored more than 190 scientific publications, with 151 indexed in the Web of Science, accumulating over 1,500 citations and an H-index of 20. Prof. Beskopylny’s recent research (2020–2025) emphasizes eco-friendly and high-performance concretes, geopolymer binders, nanomaterial reinforcement, and machine learning-based predictive modeling for structural behavior. He has pioneered studies on the use of waste materials—including glass, coffee grounds, banana leaf ash, and natural fibers such as hemp and flax—to enhance the mechanical, thermal, and ecological properties of concrete. His works on digital image correlation, ultrasonic diagnostics, and computer vision demonstrate innovative methods for assessing microstructure, defects, and performance in concrete and composite materials. A major theme in his publications is the optimization of concrete properties through numerical simulations, AI algorithms, and experimental validation, bridging sustainable construction with digital engineering. He has published extensively in leading journals such as Scientific Reports, Applied Sciences, Materials, Polymers, Buildings, and Case Studies in Construction Materials. Through his interdisciplinary approach, Prof. Beskopylny has significantly advanced the fields of civil engineering, materials science, and sustainable infrastructure. His contributions have provided new pathways for developing energy-efficient, durable, and environmentally responsible construction materials—positioning him as a leading voice in modern engineering innovation and green construction technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Research Gate

Featured Publications 

Zubarev, K. P., Razveeva, I., Beskopylny, A. N., Stel’makh, S. A., Shcherban’, E. M., Mailyan, L. R., Shakhalieva, D. M., Chernil’nik, A., & Nikora, N. I. (2025). Predicting the strength of heavy concrete exposed to aggressive environmental influences by machine learning methods. Buildings, 15(21), 3998. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15213998

Özkılıç, Y. O., Kalkan, İ., Aksoylu, C., Madenci, E., Umiye, O. A., Althaqafi, E., Stel’makh, S. A., Shcherban’, E. M., & Beskopylny, A. N. (2025). Effect of stirrup spacing and recycled steel wires on the shear and energy dissipation of pultruded GFRP hybrid beams. Journal of Engineered Fibers and Fabrics. https://doi.org/10.1177/15589250251380680

Ecemiş, A. S., Yildizel, S. A., Beskopylny, A. N., Stel’makh, S. A., Shcherban’, E. M., Aksoylu, C., Madenci, E., & Özkılıç, Y. O. (2025). Sustainable concrete with waste tire rubber and recycled steel fibers: Experimental insights and hybrid PINN–CatBoost prediction. Polymers, 17(21), 2910. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17212910

Özkılıç, Y. O., Başaran, B., Aksoylu, C., Karalar, M., Zeybek, Ö., Althaqafi, E., Beskopylny, A. N., Stel’makh, S. A., Shcherban’, E. M., & Umiye, O. A. (2025, October 21). Bending performance of reinforced concrete beams with partial waste glass aggregate replacement assessed by experimental, theoretical and digital image correlation analyses. Scientific Reports. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-20716-0

Stel’makh, S. A., Shcherban’, E. M., Beskopylny, A. N., Mailyan, L. R., Shilov, A. A., Razveeva, I., Oganesyan, S., Pogrebnyak, A., Chernil’nik, A., & Elshaeva, D. (2025). Enhancing the mechanical properties of sulfur-modified fly ash/metakaolin geopolymers with polypropylene fibers. Polymers, 17(15), 2119. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17152119