M. Mottakin | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. M. Mottakin | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr M. Mottakin | Gopalganj Science and Technology University, Bangladesh | Bangladesh

Dr. Mottakin is an accomplished Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Gopalganj Science and Technology University, Bangladesh, with a strong focus on advancing research and education in chemical sciences. His career is driven by a commitment to innovation and knowledge creation, aiming to develop practical solutions that address both national and global challenges. He holds a PhD in Solar Energy from the National University of Malaysia, building on a solid academic foundation with a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chemistry and Chemical Technology from the University of Rajshahi. Throughout his academic journey, he has consistently excelled, earning top positions in his department and demonstrating exceptional scholarly performance. Dr. Mottakin has contributed extensively to high-impact research in areas including solar energy, electrocatalysis, energy storage, and environmentally sustainable chemical processes. He has authored numerous publications in internationally recognized journals, covering topics such as perovskite solar cells, water splitting electrocatalysts, and eco-friendly energy materials. His research combines experimental and numerical approaches, emphasizing both innovation and practical applicability. In addition to his research, Dr. Mottakin actively participates in national and international conferences, sharing his expertise and fostering collaborations. He has received multiple awards and scholarships in recognition of his academic excellence and research contributions. He is fluent in both English and Bangla and demonstrates a strong ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively. Dr. Mottakin’s professional philosophy centers on integrating teaching, research, and community engagement, mentoring the next generation of scientists while contributing to sustainable technological advancements. With a proven track record in research, teaching, and international collaboration, Dr. Mottakin continues to drive innovation in applied chemistry and chemical engineering, aiming to create impactful solutions that benefit society and the scientific community.

Profile: Orcid | Scopus

Featured Publications

Patwary, M. A., Shafin, A. A., Alam, M. M., Singh Durjoy, R. K., Ludin, N. A., Su’ait, M. S., Akhtaruzzaman, M., & Mottakin, M. (2025). Optoelectronic properties and device simulation of ZnS polymorphs as buffer layers for CZTSSe solar cells. RSC Advances. https://doi.org/10.1039/D5RA07195J

Sultana, S., Sonia, Z. A., Mahmud, M., Mottakin, M., Haider, J. B., Ahmed, S., & Hossen, M. M. (2024). An investigation of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin co-extraction from water hyacinth. Advanced Journal of Chemistry, Section A. https://doi.org/10.48309/ajca.2024.412642.1402

Mottakin, M., Su’Ait, M. S., Chelvanathan, P., Islam, M. A., Shahiduzzaman, M., Ibrahim, M. A., Muhammad, G., & Akhtaruzzaman, M. (2024). Correlation between defect properties and the performance of eco-friendly CsSnI₃-based perovskite solar cells. Semiconductor Science and Technology. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6641/ad208b

Mottakin, M., Su’ait, M. S., Selvanathan, V., Chelvanathan, P., Ibrahim, M. A., & Akhtaruzzaman, M. (2024). Effect of sulfidation on ethaline-assisted electrodeposited iron sulfide-based electrocatalyst for efficient saline water splitting. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhydene.2024.06.181

Mottakin, M., Selvanathan, V., Su’ait, M. S., Razali, S. A., Islam, M. A., Ibrahim, M. A., Muhammad, G., & Akhtaruzzaman, M. (2024). Enhancing pseudocapacitive energy storage system performance with electrodeposited CuSₓ and CoSₓ biphasic transitional metal sulfide (TMS) based nanostructured electrode on nickel foam. Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, 186, 111795. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpcs.2023.111795

Mottakin, M., Su’ait, M. S., Chelvanathan, P., Ibrahim, M. A., Ludin, N. A., Abdullah, H., Almohamadi, H., & Akhtaruzzaman, M. (2024). Facile electrodeposited sandwich-like CuSₓ/MnSₓ electrocatalyst for efficient hydrogen evolution in seawater splitting. Journal of Solid State Chemistry, 339, 124913. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jssc.2024.124913

Gabriele Sirtori | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Gabriele Sirtori | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Gabriele Sirtori | ISAE Supaero | France

Gabriele Sirtori is an aerospace engineer and researcher specializing in sustainable aviation, hydrogen-powered aircraft design, and environmentally optimized flight operations. With advanced academic training culminating in a research doctorate in aerospace engineering from Politecnico di Milano, his work focuses on the integration of emerging propulsion technologies, environmental impact assessment, and the future evolution of air transport systems. His doctoral research explored hydrogen-powered aviation with an emphasis on aircraft design innovation and operational scenario development, earning top academic recognition. He also holds a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering with a thesis dedicated to evaluating the environmental benefits of hybrid propulsion for regional aircraft. International academic exposure includes studies at ENAC in Toulouse and an early exchange program in the United States, strengthening his multicultural competence and broadening his understanding of global aviation ecosystems. Gabriele currently serves as a postdoctoral researcher at ISAE Supaero in Toulouse, contributing to studies on air traffic management inefficiencies and assessing mitigation strategies to reduce climate impacts through optimized flight operations. His experience also includes leadership and community engagement through active roles in Rotaract, where he served as vice president and contributed to social and service-oriented initiatives. He has authored numerous scientific publications spanning hydrogen propulsion, hybrid-electric aircraft concepts, environmental benefits of advanced technologies, and infrastructure requirements for future sustainable fleets. His work appears in peer-reviewed journals, major international conferences, and multidisciplinary aerospace research platforms. Gabriele’s technical competencies include advanced programming in MATLAB and Python, strong proficiency in word processing and scientific documentation tools, and solid analytical abilities in data handling and modeling. He is fluent in English and French, with additional proficiency in Spanish, enabling effective collaboration in international research environments. Driven by a commitment to sustainable aviation, he aims to contribute to the transition toward cleaner, more efficient air transport through rigorous research, innovative design methodologies, and future-oriented technological analysis.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Aigner, B., Garcia Garriga, A., Sirtori, G., Riboldi, C. E. D., Trainelli, L., Mariani, C., … (2022). Overview and preliminary results of the scalability investigation of hybrid electric concepts for next-generation aircraft (SIENA) project. In 12th EASN Conference.

Trainelli, L., Riboldi, C. E. D., & Sirtori, G. (2024). Methodologies for the preliminary sizing of hydrogen-powered aircraft and supporting airport infrastructures. ICAS Proceedings, 1–12.

Aigner, B., Wehrle, E., Struiwig, W., Sirtori, G., Riboldi, C., & Trainelli, L. (2023). Consideration of technology scalability in the design of electric propulsion system architectures. In Aerospace Europe Conference 2023—Joint 10th EUCASS–9th CEAS Conference (pp. 1–11).

Sirtori, G., Aigner, B., Wehrle, E., Riboldi, C. E. D., & Trainelli, L. (2025). Innovative aircraft propulsive configurations: Technology evaluation and operations in the SIENA project. Aerospace, 12(3), 240.

Sirtori, G., Trainelli, L., & Lahmam, Z. (2024). Hydrogen tankering: Tools for economic and environmental impact scenario studies. ICAS Proceedings, 1–13.

Sirtori, G., & Trainelli, L. (2025). Transient in operations: From jet-fuel to hydrogen-powered aircraft. In Towards Sustainable Aviation Summit (TSAS 2025) (pp. 1–8).

Sirtori, G., Trainelli, L., & Riboldi, C. E. D. (2024). Prediction of environmental benefits introducing hybrid-electric propulsion on regional aircraft. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 2716(1), 012015.

Xingwang Bian | Scientific Breakthroughs | Research Excellence Award

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Mr. Xingwang Bian | Scientific Breakthroughs | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Xingwang Bian | Beijing Vacuum Electronics Research Institute | China

Xingwang Bian is a senior-level researcher at the Beijing Vacuum Electronics Research Institute, working in the domain of vacuum electronics and high-frequency device engineering. He specializes in the research, design, and experimental development of traveling-wave tubes (TWTs) operating at millimeter-wave and terahertz (THz) frequencies — especially in the G-band. His work leverages advanced slow-wave structure designs, electron-beam systems, and optimized focusing/magnetics, aiming to push the power, bandwidth, and efficiency envelope for THz vacuum-electronic amplifiers.  Among his important contributions: he co-authored demonstration of a broadband continuous-wave G-band TWT providing multi-GHz bandwidth and tens of watts of output power — a promising step toward practical THz wireless communications and radar systems.  Bian has also been centrally involved in the development of pulsed G-band TWTs for radar applications, combining innovations in slow-wave structure (modified folded waveguide), high-current electron beams, and phase-velocity tapering to reach high output power levels (on the order of 100 W+ in pulsed operation) in a compact, vacuum-electronic device.  Through these efforts, Bian has helped advance what is arguably one of the leading THz-band vacuum-electronic technology pipelines from BVERI, contributing to both academic publications and applied-device development.  In sum: Bian is a specialized vacuum-electronics engineer/scientist whose expertise lies at the intersection of electromagnetic design, electron-beam physics, and high-frequency amplifier fabrication — with a clear emphasis on making high-power, wide-band, THz-band TWTs viable for radar, sensing, and communication applications.

Publication Profile

Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications 

Bian, X., Pan, P., Du, X., Feng, Y., Li, Y., Song, B., & Feng, J. (2025). Design and experiment of modified folded waveguide slow wave structure for 60-W G-band traveling wave tube. IEEE Microwave and Wireless Technology Letters.

Bian, X., Pan, P., Xian, S., Yang, D., Zhang, L., Cai, J., & Feng, J. (2025). A G-band pulsed wave traveling wave tube for THz radar. Preprints.

Zhu, M., Cai, Y., Zhang, L., Zhang, J., Hua, B., Ma, K., Ding, J., Bian, X., et al. (2025). Surpassing kilometer-scale terahertz wireless communication beyond 300 GHz enabled by hybrid photonic–electronic synergy. Research Square.

Bian, X., Pan, P., Du, X., Song, B., Zhang, L., Cai, J., & Feng, J. (2024). Demonstration of a high-efficiency and wide-band 30-W G-band continuous wave traveling wave tube. IEEE Electron Device Letters.

Feng, Y., Bian, X., Song, B., Li, Y., Pan, P., & Feng, J. (2022). A G-band broadband continuous wave traveling wave tube for wireless communications. Micromachines

Roghieh Hajiboland | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Roghieh Hajiboland | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Roghieh Hajiboland | University of Tabriz | Iran

Prof. Roghieh Hajiboland is a distinguished Full Professor of Plant Physiology in the Department of Plant, Cell and Molecular Biology, renowned for her extensive contributions to mineral nutrition, abiotic stress tolerance, and plant–microbe interactions. She earned her Ph.D. in Plant Physiology from the University of Hohenheim, Germany, and has since developed a globally recognized research portfolio focused on nutrient uptake, transport physiology, heavy metal tolerance, salinity and drought stress adaptation, aluminum toxicity, and silicon- and selenium-mediated stress mitigation in diverse crop and halophytic species. With an active research career spanning more than a decade, Prof. Hajiboland has produced a substantial body of high-impact scientific work, including 60+ international journal articles, influential compilation books with Springer, Elsevier, Wiley, and Shayesteh Publishers, and numerous national publications and conference presentations. Her studies have advanced fundamental understanding of mineral element functions, nutrient remobilization, antioxidant responses, water relations, and physiological/biochemical mechanisms underlying stress resilience in plants. She is widely recognized for pioneering research on tea plant physiology, halophyte species, intercropping systems, and the roles of aluminum, selenium, and silicon in plant stress biology. Prof. Hajiboland teaches a broad range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral-level courses, including Plant Physiology, Plant Growth and Development, Mineral Nutrition, Uptake and Transport in Plants, Transport Physiology, Evolutionary Biology, and Plant–Microbe Interactions. Her academic leadership includes supervising graduate research, mentoring young scientists, and contributing actively to departmental and institutional development. Her scholarly visibility is supported through Google Scholar, Scopus, and ResearchGate profiles, reflecting strong citation influence and international collaboration, particularly with leading researchers in Europe. Through her sustained research, teaching, and publication record, Prof. Hajiboland continues to shape contemporary understanding of plant stress physiology and sustainable crop improvement under challenging environmental conditions.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Moradtalab, N., Hajiboland, R., Aliasgharzad, N., Hartmann, T. E., & Neumann, G. (2019). Silicon and the association with an arbuscular-mycorrhizal fungus (Rhizophagus clarus) mitigate the adverse effects of drought stress on strawberry. Agronomy, 9(1), 41. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9010041

Rahmat, S., Hajiboland, R., & Sadeghzade, N. (2017). Selenium delays leaf senescence in oilseed rape plants. Photosynthetica, 55(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11099-016-0643-6

Hajiboland, R., Bahrami-Rad, S., & Poschenrieder, C. (2017). Silicon modifies both a local response and a systemic response to mechanical stress in tobacco leaves. Biologia Plantarum, 61(1), 123–131. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10535-016-0633-3

Ebrahimi, N., Hartikainen, H., Simojoki, A., Hajiboland, R., & Seppänen, M. (2015). Dynamics of dry matter and selenium accumulation in oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) in response to organic and inorganic selenium treatments. Agricultural and Food Science, 24(3), 219–230.*

Hajiboland, R., Sadeghzadeh, N., Ebrahimi, N., Sadeghzadeh, B., & Mohammadi, S. A. (2015). Influence of selenium in drought-stressed wheat plants under greenhouse and field conditions. Acta Agriculturae Slovenica, 105(2), 213–225. https://doi.org/10.14720/aas.2015.105.2.01

Hajiboland, R., Bastani, S., Bahrami-Rad, S., & Poschenrieder, C. (2015). Interactions between aluminum and boron in tea (Camellia sinensis) plants. Acta Physiologiae Plantarum, 37(12), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11738-015-1803-1

Eric Howard | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Eric Howard | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Eric Howard | Macquarie University | Australia

Dr. Eric Howard is an accomplished academic leader, researcher, and innovator with nearly three decades of combined experience across computational physics, astronomy, quantum computing, data science, and cybersecurity. He has made influential contributions through teaching, curriculum design, research supervision, and interdisciplinary program development across multiple higher-education sectors. His academic leadership includes directing programs and advancing pedagogical frameworks for undergraduate, postgraduate, and MBA-level studies. Dr. Howard’s research portfolio reflects significant advancements in emerging technologies. His completed and ongoing projects span quantum machine learning for fraud detection, hybrid quantum-classical neural networks for intrusion detection, quantum Bayesian inference models, variational simulations of molecular ground states, holographic beam shaping with AI optimization, and quantum graph neural networks for complex systems. He has published more than sixty peer-reviewed papers in respected SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, covering quantum information science, artificial intelligence, cosmology, cryptography, and computational physics. He also contributes to global scholarship as an editor for international journals in physics and theoretical mathematics, while serving as a peer reviewer for prominent scientific publishers and organizations. In addition, Dr. Howard maintains strong collaborative ties with national research institutes, quantum technology networks, and centers of excellence, advancing high-impact interdisciplinary projects. In industry, Dr. Howard has demonstrated entrepreneurial leadership as CEO of companies specializing in AI-powered cybersecurity and data-driven digital automation. His consultancy experience includes developing secure e-learning ecosystems, threat intelligence platforms, cloud security frameworks, and advanced analytics solutions for enterprise and academic clients. Dr. Howard’s key contributions include pioneering quantum-enhanced cybersecurity models, designing AI-driven threat intelligence frameworks, and leading competitive grant-funded projects in quantum sensing, VQE simulations, and digital security. His sustained commitment to innovation, mentorship, and research excellence underscores his significant impact on scientific, technological, and educational advancement.

Profile: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Howard, E. (2025). Data imputation with deep learning: AI techniques for handling missing or noisy data. Eksplorium. https://doi.org/10.52783/eksplorium.65

Howard, E. (2025). End-to-end visibility in global supply chains: Blockchain and AI integration [Dataset]. figshare. https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.28528676

Howard, E. (2025). Leveraging computer vision and data science for enhanced operational efficiency in smart enterprises. Tangence. https://doi.org/10.52783/tangence.6

Ramshankar, P., Howard, E., Srinivasan, V., Prabu, D., Dhanraj, J. A., Kumar, M. J., & Rajendiran, M. (2025). Nanoscale characterization and imaging techniques for material analysis. AIP Conference Proceedings. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0277578

Howard, E. (2025). Optimization of heat transfer in mechanical systems using AI in neural networks. Tangence. https://doi.org/10.52783/tangence.3

Howard, E. (2025). Real-time image-based data processing and its applications in managerial decision-making and risk analysis. Eksplorium. https://doi.org/10.52783/eksplorium.181

Ouafaa Morjani | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Ouafaa Morjani | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Ouafaa Morjani | Hassan II University of Casablanca | Morocco

Dr. Ouafaa Morjani is a dedicated researcher in Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Bioinformatics, holding a Ph.D. from Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco. Affiliated with the Faculty of Sciences and Technics of Mohammedia, her work is rooted in the Laboratory of Virology, Oncology, Biosciences, Environment, and New Energies. Her research primarily focuses on thoracic oncology, particularly Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), where she integrates molecular profiling, genetic variants, biomarkers, and advanced diagnostic technologies to improve early detection and precision medicine. Dr. Morjani has authored and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications addressing clinical, anatomical, and molecular dimensions of lung cancer. Her work includes exploring GWAS-derived genetic variants in NSCLC, investigating interleukin-based blood biomarkers, analyzing metastasis patterns, and assessing the impact of smoking on lung cancer mechanisms. She has also presented extensively at prestigious international conferences in Morocco, France, and Saudi Arabia, contributing to discussions on NGS applications, ROS1 rearrangement detection, and molecular pathology. Her scientific expertise is strengthened by advanced training in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) at renowned institutions in France, along with hands-on experience in sequencing platforms such as Ion Torrent and Illumina. She is proficient in NGS library preparation, nucleic acid extraction, and bioinformatics analysis involving FastQ, BAM, and SAM files. Her competencies extend to R programming, statistical analysis, and functional genomics. She has participated in major workshops, including the African BioGenome Project Fellowship, enhancing her mastery of genome assembly, annotation, and biodiversity genomics. Dr. Morjani has additional experience in molecular diagnostics, including RT-qPCR detection of foodborne viruses and breast cancer biomarker analysis through IHC and FISH. She is also actively involved in teaching, mentoring, quality assurance, COVID-19 testing, and regulatory compliance. A member of multiple national and international scientific societies, she is recognized for her adaptability, teamwork, communication skills, and strong commitment to advancing cancer genomics and molecular oncology.

Profile: Google Scholar | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

Morjani, O., Benkirane, N., Errihani, H., Elfahime, E. M., & Lakhiari, H. (2024). Molecular analysis of genetic mutations in non-small cell lung cancer in Morocco. Pan African Medical Journal, 47(1).

Morjani, O., Benlhachemi, S., Errihani, H., El Fahime, E., & Lakhiari, H. (n.d.). Epidemiological, clinical, anatomopathological and molecular profiles of lung cancer in patients at the oncology center of the Cheikh Zaid International University Hospital in Rabat. [Journal information incomplete].

Morjani, O., Yang, Y.-W., Lahlil, R., Lakhiari, H., & Alaoui, H. (2025). Hematological biomarkers for early detection of lung cancer: Evaluating the diagnostic potential of circulating interleukin levels. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(22), 11014.

Morjani, O., Mounaji, N., Ghaouti, M., Errihani, H., El Fahime, E., & Lakhiari, H. (2024). Next generation sequencing and genomic mapping: Towards precision molecular diagnosis of lung cancer in Morocco. Pan African Medical Journal, 49, 75.

Morjani, O., Karimoune, M. A. S., Errihani, H., El Fahime, E. M., & Lakhiari, H. (2023). Comparative study of molecular techniques for detecting ROS1 rearrangement in non-small cell lung cancer: Implications for diagnostic precision. Journal of Molecular Diagnostics, 26(6), S5–S6.

Antonella Frassanito | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Antonella Frassanito | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Antonella Frassanito | Sapienza University of Rome | Italy 

Dr. Antonella Frassanito is an accomplished Italian pediatrician and pediatric pulmonologist with extensive clinical, academic, and research experience spanning nearly two decades. Born in Cosenza, she earned her Medical Degree with honors from Sapienza University of Rome, followed by specialization in Pediatrics, summa cum laude) and advanced master’s degrees in Pediatric Pneumology and Healthcare Management. She also holds certifications in pediatric emergency, life support, pediatric ultrasound, and European pediatric life support. Dr. Frassanito has built a robust clinical career across major Italian healthcare institutions, including Umberto I General Hospital, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, and San Camillo de Lellis Hospital. she has served as a Medical Manager at the Pediatric Emergency and Short Observation Unit of the Maternal-Infant and Urologic Sciences Department in Rome. She has been a practicing pediatrician in nursery settings and actively substitutes for pediatricians. In academia, she has taught in the Pediatric Emergency Master’s Program and the Nursing Science Course at Sapienza University. Her research focuses on bronchiolitis, respiratory infections, bronchoscopy, pertussis, primary ciliary dyskinesia, and pediatric respiratory function. She has contributed to numerous national and international studies, including multicenter projects funded by SIMRI and Sapienza University. Dr. Frassanito is a member of the Italian Society of Pediatrics, SIMRI, and the European Respiratory Society. She serves on editorial boards and is a peer reviewer for international journals. She has presented extensively at major conferences, chaired sessions at ERS congresses, and delivered invited lectures on bronchiolitis, pneumonia, respiratory microbiota, and pediatric emergency topics. Her work has earned multiple SIMRI awards and scholarships recognizing excellence in pediatric respiratory research. Through her clinical leadership, scientific contributions, and educational roles, Dr. Frassanito continues to play a significant role in advancing pediatric respiratory medicine in Italy and beyond.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Congenital Tracheal Stenosis: Two Case Reports and Literature Review Matera, L., Nenna, R., Frassanito, A., Conti, M. G., Petrarca, L., Mancino, E., Di Mattia, G., La Regina, D. P., Iovine, E., Virgili, F., Spatuzzo, M., & Midulla, F. (2024). Congenital tracheal stenosis: Two case reports and literature review. Current RespiratoryMedicineReviews,20(4),351354.
https://doi.org/10.2174/011573398X282374240227040922

A Single Center Observational Study on Clinical Manifestations and Associated Factors of Pediatric Long COVID Mancino, E., Nenna, R., Matera, L., La Regina, D. P., Petrarca, L., Iovine, E., Di Mattia, G., Frassanito, A., Conti, M. G., Bonci, E., Spatuzzo, M., Ialongo, S., Zicari, A. M., Spalice, A., & Midulla, F., on behalf of the Long Covid Research Group. (2023). A single center observational study on clinical manifestations and associated factors of pediatric Long COVID. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(18), 6799. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186799

An Italian Multicenter Study on the Epidemiology of Respiratory Syncytial Virus During SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic in Hospitalized Children Nenna, R., Matera, L., Licari, A., Manti, S., Di Bella, G., Pierangeli, A., Palamara, A. T., Nosetti, L., Leonardi, S., Marseglia, G. L., & Midulla, F., for the ICHRIS Group. (2022). An Italian multicenter study on the epidemiology of respiratory syncytial virus during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in hospitalized children. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 10, 930281. https://doi.org/10.3389/fped.2022.930281

Xiaoping Ren | Scientific Breakthroughs | Distinguished Scientist Award

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Prof. Dr. Xiaoping Ren | Scientific Breakthroughs | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Xiaoping Ren | Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University | China

Dr. Xiaoping Ren is an internationally recognized surgeon and scientist known for pioneering breakthroughs in hand transplantation, spinal cord fusion, and head transplantation research. He designed the world’s first clinical hand allotransplantation model, contributed to the United States’ first hand transplant, and discovered key mechanisms such as RPCT and RCI. He led landmark achievements including the first mouse head transplant, the first human head-transplant surgical model, and multiple world-first advances in spinal cord fusion that restored neural continuity in animal studies. His work established him as a global leader in paralysis treatment and regenerative reconstruction. Dr. Ren has earned major international honors, including election to the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences, fellowship of the International College of Surgeons, and leadership roles such as Chief Scientist of the GICUP Alliance, supported by an extensive publication record across microsurgery, neurology, cardiology, and regenerative medicine.

Profiles: Scopus 

Featured Publications

Ren, X., et al. (2025). Establishment of a canine model of vascularized allogeneic spinal cord transplantation and preliminary study on spinal cord continuity reconstruction. Chinese Journal of Reparative and Reconstructive Surgery.

Ren, X., et al. (2024). Recovery of independent ambulation after complete spinal cord transection in the presence of the neuroprotectant polyethylene glycol in monkeys. IBRO Neuroscience Reports.

Ren, X., et al. (2024). A novel strategy for spinal cord reconstruction via vascularized allogeneic spinal cord transplantation combined with spinal cord fusion. CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics.

Ren, X., et al. (2024). Developing preclinical dog models for reconstructive severed spinal cord continuity via spinal cord fusion technique. IBRO Neuroscience Reports.

Ren, X., et al. (2023). Effect of vascularized lymph node transplantation combined with lymphatico-venous anastomosis in the treatment of lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery.

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

Maria Pinelli | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Maria Pinelli | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Maria Pinelli | Radboud University Medical Center | Italy

Dr. Maria Pinelli is an Assistant Professor Junior (RTDa) at the Politecnico di Milano (Italy) in the Department of Management, Economics, and Industrial Engineering (ING-IND/35). Her academic and research work focuses on technological innovation in healthcare, with particular attention to Health Technology Assessment (HTA), innovation management in hospitals, and the integration of scanning and assessment processes to enhance healthcare value creation. She earned her Ph.D. from Politecnico di Milano in 2025 with a thesis titled “MedTech Innovation in Hospitals: Re-Framing the Integration between Scanning and Assessment and the Determinants of Value.” During her doctoral studies, she was a Visiting Ph.D. Student at Radboud University (Netherlands), collaborating on international research exploring hospital technology strategies. Her academic background also includes a Master’s Degree in Management Engineering with specialization in Sustainable Operations Management and Social Innovation and a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering, both completed with honors. Dr. Pinelli has published extensively in high-impact international journals such as Health Policy, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, PLOS ONE, IEEE Journal of Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine, and IJERPH. Her works contribute to understanding the strategic, clinical, and socio-economic evaluation of medical technologies and the role of digital transformation and sustainability in healthcare systems. She has been actively involved in teaching and coordinating courses such as Innovation in Health and Social Care, Healthcare Management, and Economia e Organizzazione Aziendale at Politecnico di Milano and Humanitas University. Her contributions extend to international conferences, including EURAM, ISPOR, IPDMC, and Health Technology Assessment International, where she presented cutting-edge research on hospital innovation, inclusive healthcare technologies, and decision-making frameworks. Dr. Pinelli also serves as a reviewer for several leading journals, including the Journal of Medical Internet Research and Health Services Management Research. Beyond academia, she has contributed to practitioner conferences addressing the impact of AI and MedTech innovation in healthcare. Through her multidisciplinary expertise, international collaboration, and commitment to advancing healthcare innovation, Dr. Maria Pinelli represents a new generation of scholars bridging management engineering and medical technology for sustainable, patient-centered care.

Profiles: Google Scholar

Featured Publications 

Pinelli, M., Moglia, A., Marsilio, L., Rossi, M., Lettieri, E., Mainardi, L., & Manzotti, A. (2023). Mixed reality and artificial intelligence: A holistic approach to multimodal visualization and extended interaction in knee osteotomy. IEEE Journal of Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine, 10. https://doi.org/10.1109/JTEHM.2023.3335608

Pinelli, M., Manetti, S., & Lettieri, E. (2023). Assessing the social and environmental impact of healthcare technologies: Towards an extended social return on investment. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(6), 5224. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20065224

Di Francesco, A., Pinelli, M., Lettieri, E., Toletti, G., & Galli, M. (2023). Towards a more inclusive society: The social return on investment (SROI) of an innovative ankle–foot orthosis for hemiplegic children. Sustainability, 15(5), 4361. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15054361

Pinelli, M., Gerardi, C., Lettieri, E., Maioru, M., Marone, L., Bertoldi, L., Navanteri, G., Costantini, M., Botti, C., & Pellini, F. (2024). Comparison of indocyanine green with conventional tracers for sentinel lymph node biopsy in breast cancer: A multidisciplinary evaluation of clinical effectiveness, safety, organizational and economic impact. PLOS ONE, 19(8), e0309336. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0309336

Pinelli, M., Lettieri, E., Boaretto, A., Casile, C., Citro, G., Zazzaro, B., & Ravazzoni, A. (2022). Glucometer usability for 65+ type 2 diabetes patients: Insights on physical and cognitive issues. Sensors, 22(16), 6202. https://doi.org/10.3390/s22166202