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.

Yong Liu | Research Excellence | Innovative Research Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yong Liu | Research Excellence | Innovative Research Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yong Liu | Tianjin University | China

Dr. Yong Liu is an Associate Professor at the School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Tianjin University, China. With an extensive record of scholarly contributions, he has authored and co-authored over 100 technical papers, three books or book chapters, and more than 50 patents in electrical engineering. His research primarily focuses on ageing evaluation, defect diagnosis, and performance monitoring of outdoor insulators and power cables under complex atmospheric and electrical conditions. Dr. Liu’s pioneering work integrates advanced sensing technologies, signal processing, and artificial intelligence to improve the reliability and safety of high-voltage power transmission systems. His studies on leakage current characteristics, surface discharges, and magnetic field-based condition evaluation have significantly advanced diagnostic techniques for high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) and direct current (HVDC) equipment. Notable recent contributions include research on multi-scale leakage current feature extraction using graph neural networks, magnetic field feature analysis for power cable evaluation, and dynamic discharge behavior of ice-covered insulators under DC voltages. He has made substantial progress in understanding the electro-thermal and mechanical ageing mechanisms of polymeric insulators and cables, developing novel monitoring strategies and predictive models for insulation failure. His publications in leading journals such as IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation, IEEE Access, Energies, and Polymers demonstrate his sustained excellence and influence in high-voltage engineering and applied materials science. As a member of the Chinese Society for Electrical Engineering (CSEE) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Dr. Liu actively contributes to international collaboration and academic exchange. His innovative research continues to support the development of smart grid technologies, advanced cable diagnostics, and climate-resilient power systems, positioning him as a leading scholar in electrical insulation and power engineering research.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications 

Liu, Y., Lin, M., Wei, H., Duan, X., Li, Z., & Fu, Q. (2025). Cable outer sheath defect identification using multi-scale leakage current features and graph neural networks. Energies, 18(21), 5687. https://doi.org/10.3390/en18215687

Liu, Y., Wang, M., Huang, Y., Han, T., & Du, B. (2024). Feature extraction of magnetic field for condition evaluation of HVAC power cable. IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation. https://doi.org/10.1109/TDEI.2023.3342774

Liu, Y., Li, C., Yin, F., Du, B. X., & Farzaneh, M. (2024). Nonlinear traits of leakage current and dynamic actions of surface discharges on ice-covered insulators under DC voltages. IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation. https://doi.org/10.1109/TDEI.2024.3373549

Liu, Y., Guo, Y., Wang, B., Li, Q., Gao, Q., & Wan, Y. (2024). Research on influencing factors and wind deflection warning of transmission lines based on meteorological prediction. Energies, 17(11), 2612. https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112612

Liu, Y., Xin, Y., Huang, Y., Du, B., Huang, X., & Su, J. (2024). Optimal design and development of magnetic field detection sensor for AC power cable. Sensors, 24(8), 2528. https://doi.org/10.3390/s24082528

Liu, Y., Xin, Y., Du, B., Huang, X., & Su, J. (2024, March 22). Optimal design and development of magnetic field detection sensor for AC power cable [Preprint]. Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202403.1352.v1

Mr. Ehsan Esmaeeli | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award | 2537

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Mr. Ehsan Esmaeeli | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ehsan Esmaeeli | Sharif University of Technology | Iran

Ehsan Esmaeeli, a dedicated researcher in Maintenance and Reliability Engineering at Sharif University of Technology, exemplifies excellence in research, innovation, and professional expertise. His scholarly contributions span maintenance optimization, reliability modeling, and intelligent asset management systems, integrating AI and hybrid optimization techniques. With multiple publications in high-impact international journals such as IEEE Access and Journal of Quality in Maintenance Engineering, his work has advanced the understanding of data-driven maintenance strategies and sustainable industrial operations. A Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP), Asset Management Assessor (CAMA), and Reliability Leader (CRL), Ehsan bridges academic research with industrial practice, fostering innovation that enhances system reliability and operational efficiency.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Esmaeeli, E., Collins, A. J., Varmazyar, M., & Khorshidnia, M. (2025). Agent-based modeling applications in maintenance systems: A systematic review. Journal of Quality in Maintenance Engineering, 31(3), 325–349. https://doi.org/10.1108/JQME-03-2024-0028

Vandi Dlama Kamaunji | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Vandi Dlama Kamaunji | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vandi Dlama Kamaunji | Tyeeli New Energy Company Limited | Nigeria

Dr. Vandi Dlama Kamaunji is a geologist and geochemist with a strong background in mineral exploration, petrology, geochemistry, and geological mapping. His professional experience spans academic, industrial, and research roles, focusing on the geological evolution, petrogenesis, and mineralization of alkaline and peralkaline complexes in Nigeria and China. He has served as an Exploration/Resource Geologist at Wanrun Mining Company Limited, where he led geological field surveys, core logging, mineral resource estimations, and geophysical data interpretation to support mineral exploration and development projects. His work also included environmental impact assessments, data management, and regulatory compliance. Previously, as a Part-Time Lecturer at Adamawa State University, he delivered courses in ore deposits and geochemistry, supervised research projects, and contributed to curriculum development and academic mentorship. Earlier in his career, he held a leadership role as Head of Geology at L&T Hydrogeo-Engineering Company, where he conducted geophysical surveys, oversaw mineral exploration operations, and managed multidisciplinary geological teams. Dr. Kamaunji’s research contributions include multiple publications in high-impact international journals such as Lithos, International Geology Review, Geological Journal, and Journal of African Earth Sciences. His studies cover diverse topics such as tectonomagmatic processes, isotopic geochemistry, remote sensing applications, and mineral resource potential in Nigeria’s basement complexes and ring structures. His scientific expertise encompasses mineralogy, isotope and trace-element geochemistry, ore deposit modeling, and analytical techniques such as EPMA, LA-ICP-MS, ICP-MS, XRF, and SEM. He is actively engaged in international collaborations and professional organizations, including the International Association of Geochemistry, European Association of Geochemistry, Society of Economic Geologists, and the Nigerian Mining and Geoscience Society. Dr. Kamaunji has received several academic and merit awards, including the Excellent Graduate Award (Ph.D.) and the Excellent Master’s Dissertation Award from the China University of Geosciences, as well as the prestigious Chinese Government Scholarships for both his Master’s and Doctoral studies.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Kamaunji, V. D., Wang, L. X., Ahmed, H. A., Zhu, Y. X., Vincent, V. I., & Girei, M. B. (2020). Coexisting A1 and A2 granites of Kudaru Complex: Implications for genetic and tectonic diversity of A-type granite in the Younger Granite Province, north-central Nigeria. International Journal of Earth Sciences, 109(2), 511–535. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00531-020-01818-8

Kamaunji, V. D., Wang, L. X., Ma, C. Q., Liu, J., & Zhu, Y. X. (2021). Petrogenesis and tectonic implication of the Permian–Triassic syenogranites from the eastern segment of the East Kunlun Orogen, China. Lithos, 402, 105932. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lithos.2020.105932

Vincent, V. I., Wang, L. X., Zhu, Y. X., Kamaunji, V. D., Ahmed, H. A., Ntekim, E. E., & Cao, L. (2022). Onset of the anorogenic alkaline magmatism in the Nigerian Younger Granite Province: Constraints from the Daura and Dutse complexes. Lithos, 410, 106561. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lithos.2021.106561

Vincent, V. I., Li, H., Girei, M. B., Förster, M. W., & Kamaunji, V. D. (2023). Tourmaline and zircon trace the nature and timing of magmatic-hydrothermal episodes in granite-related Sn mineralization: Insights from the Libata Sn ore field. American Mineralogist, 108(3), 552–571. https://doi.org/10.2138/am-2023-8334

Ahmed, H. A., Wang, L. X., Ma, C. Q., Abdallsamed, M. I. M., Girei, M. B., Zhu, Y. X., Vincent, V. I., & Kamaunji, V. D. (2021). Contrasting Neoproterozoic and Mesozoic granitoids in Zaranda Complex (Nigeria): Insights into the distinct origins, tectonic settings, and mineralization potential. International Journal of Earth Sciences, 110(4), 1389–1413. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00531-021-02021-z

 

Yan Tong Koh | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yan Tong Koh | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yan Tong Koh | Tan Tock Seng Hospital, National Healthcare Group | Singapore

Dr. Koh Yan Tong is an accomplished clinician-scientist whose research contributions have significantly advanced understanding in paediatric ophthalmology, adult strabismus, and ocular inflammation. Her published works span reputable international journals, addressing diverse topics such as retinal diseases, orbital trauma, and uveitis, with clinical implications for both adult and paediatric eye care. Her research has been cited in 11 scientific documents, reflecting her growing influence in ophthalmic literature, and she maintains an h-index of 1, demonstrating the emerging recognition of her early scholarly impact. In addition to her active research pursuits, Dr. Koh plays a pivotal role in clinical leadership, medical education, and translational ophthalmic studies, bridging clinical excellence with academic innovation across the National Healthcare Group and affiliated medical schools.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Koh, Y. T., Chee, S. P., Fong, K. C., Tan, C. S., & Lim, W. K. (2013). Characteristics and ophthalmic manifestations of the classic dengue fever epidemic in Singapore (2005–2006). Asia-Pacific Journal of Ophthalmology, 2(3), 175–179.

gülçin gacar | Scientific Breakthroughs | Distinguished Scientist Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. gülçin gacar | Scientific Breakthroughs | Distinguished Scientist Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. gülçin gacar | KOCAELI UNIVERSITY, Turkey

Dr. Gülçin Gacar is an Associate Professor at Kocaeli University, serving at the Center for Stem Cell and Gene Therapies within the Institute of Health Sciences. With a strong background in clinical microbiology, her research explores mesenchymal stem cells, exosomes, extracellular vesicles, and regenerative therapies. She actively leads and contributes to national scientific projects and serves as a mentor to graduate students. Her work bridges experimental research with clinical applications, advancing the field of stem cell biology through innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Academic Profile 

ORCID, Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Gülçin Gacar pursued her academic training in medical and life sciences with a strong emphasis on clinical microbiology and cellular biology. Her foundational education equipped her with deep theoretical and practical knowledge of molecular biology, immunology, and biotechnology. Building upon this, she specialized in advanced studies of stem cells and regenerative medicine, laying the groundwork for her future research in cellular therapies and translational medicine. Her education has been a critical driver in shaping her academic vision and her interdisciplinary approach to complex biomedical challenges.

Professional Experience

Dr. Gacar currently holds the position of Associate Professor at Kocaeli University, where she is actively involved with the Center for Stem Cell and Gene Therapies. Over the years, she has gained extensive academic and research experience, having taught and mentored at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. She plays a vital role in supervising graduate theses and guiding students in advanced biomedical research. Beyond her teaching responsibilities, she is also a principal investigator and research consultant on numerous scientific projects funded by national bodies such as TÜBİTAK. Her experience includes close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams working on cellular therapies, tissue engineering, and experimental models of disease. Her leadership in research has contributed significantly to the academic output of her department and to the scientific community at large.

Research Interests

Dr. Gacar’s research focuses on the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells, exosomes, and extracellular vesicles, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases, cancer biology, and tissue regeneration. Her work integrates cellular and molecular techniques to investigate disease mechanisms and therapeutic responses in experimental models. She has conducted studies on the effects of stem-cell-derived exosomes in Alzheimer’s disease models, explored the anti-inflammatory potential of compounds in oxidative stress conditions, and examined the use of photodynamic therapy agents in cancer treatment. Dr. Gacar is particularly interested in how cell-to-cell communication via extracellular vesicles can be harnessed to develop new treatment modalities. Her scientific output reflects a strong commitment to translational research, bridging the gap between bench-side discoveries and clinical applications.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Gacar has earned recognition for her contributions to medical research and scientific innovation. She has been involved in several prestigious research projects funded by national agencies, notably TÜBİTAK, and by higher education institutions. Her collaborative work has resulted in multiple successful research grants and numerous scholarly publications in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Gacar has also contributed to the advancement of academic research infrastructure by mentoring emerging scholars and participating in advisory roles on national research panels. These accomplishments underscore her standing in the scientific community and highlight the broader impact of her research in the fields of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine.

Publications

Characterization of mesenchymal stem cells from rat bone marrow: ultrastructural properties, differentiation potential and immunophenotypic markers – Histochemistry and cell biology (2009)

Isolation and in vitro characterisation of dental pulp stem cells from natal teeth – Histochemistry and cell biology (2010)

Comparative analysis of apoptotic resistance of mesenchymal stem cells isolated from human bone marrow and adipose tissue – The Scientific World (2012)

The short-and long-term effects of estrogen deficiency on apoptosis in musculoskeletal tissues: an experimental animal model study – Archives of Iranian Medicine (2013)

In vitro protection of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells by erythropoietin – Acta histochemica (2014)

Protective effects of resveratrol on aging-induced cognitive impairment in rats – Neurobiology of learning and memory (2016)

Restorative effect of resveratrol on expression of endothelial and neuronal nitric oxide synthase in cavernous tissues of chronic unpredictable mild stress-exposed rats: an – International Journal of Impotence Research (2018)