Hamideh Elmizadeh | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Hamideh Elmizadeh | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Hamideh Elmizadeh | Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST) | Iran

Dr. Hamideh Elmizadeh is an accomplished analytical chemist specializing in the design, synthesis, and application of advanced nanomaterials, particularly quantum dots and fluorescent nanosensors for biomedical, forensic, and environmental applications. Her expertise spans optical bio-nanosensors, chemometrics, drug-delivery systems, and the development of high-performance analytical platforms using cutting-edge experimental design and molecular spectroscopy techniques. She is highly skilled in software tools such as Design-Expert, Origin, ChemDraw, and Microsoft Office, complementing her strong background in experimental optimization and nanosensor fabrication. Dr. Elmizadeh has served in academic and research positions across leading Iranian institutions, contributing to higher education as a visiting professor and advancing interdisciplinary research as an assistant professor in analytical chemistry. She has also been actively involved in forensic analytical science through her role at a legal medicine research center, where she developed innovative fluorescent probes for rapid and ultrasensitive detection of drugs and biomolecules in complex biological matrices. Her scientific contributions include numerous publications in high-impact journals, covering quantum dot synthesis, apta-nanobiosensors, hydrogel-based materials, environmental pollutant detection, chitosan-based drug carriers, and chemometric modeling. She has authored specialized conference presentations and co-developed several national patents related to photocatalysis, nanomaterial-based sensors, and targeted drug-delivery systems. Her work has resulted in successful research projects leading to impactful publications, patented technologies, and advanced nanosensor prototypes. Dr. Elmizadeh is also the author of a book on chemical and optical nanosensors and maintains active profiles on major scientific platforms, including ResearchGate, LinkedIn, ORCID, and Scopus. She has participated in numerous specialized workshops on nanotechnology, biosensing, flow cytometry, commercialization, standard development, emotional intelligence, and entrepreneurship. Recognized for scientific excellence, leadership, and innovation, Dr. Elmizadeh is a member of national scientific organizations and serves as editor-in-chief of a nanochemistry journal. Her work reflects a strong commitment to advancing analytical chemistry through research, teaching, and technological innovation.

Profile; Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar | LinkedIn

Featured Publications:

Khanmohammadi, M., Elmizadeh, H., & Ghasemi, K. (2015). Investigation of size and morphology of chitosan nanoparticles used in drug delivery system employing chemometric technique. Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 14(3), 665–672.

Elmizadeh, H., Khanmohammadi, M., Ghasemi, K., Hassanzadeh, G., & others. (2013). Preparation and optimization of chitosan nanoparticles and magnetic chitosan nanoparticles as delivery systems using Box–Behnken statistical design. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 80, 141–146.

Elmizadeh, H., Faridbod, F., Soleimani, M., Ganjali, M. R., & Bardajee, G. R. (2020). Fluorescent apta-nanobiosensors for fast and sensitive detection of digoxin in biological fluids using rGQDs: Comparison of two approaches for immobilization of aptamer. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, 302, 127133.

Elmizadeh, H., Soleimani, M., Faridbod, F., & Bardajee, G. R. (2017). Ligand-capped CdTe quantum dots as a fluorescent nanosensor for detection of copper ions in environmental water sample. Journal of Fluorescence, 27(6), 2323–2333.

Bardajee, G. R., Zamani, M., Mahmoodian, H., Elmizadeh, H., Yari, H., & others. (2021). Capability of novel fluorescence DNA-conjugated CdTe/ZnS quantum dots nanoprobe for COVID-19 sensing. Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, 269, 120702.

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

Seyyed Javad Hosseini-Vashan | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Seyyed Javad Hosseini-Vashan | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Seyyed Javad Hosseini-Vashan | University of Birjand | Iran

Dr. Seyyed Javad Hosseini-Vashanis an Associate Professor of Animal Science at the University of Birjand, specializing in Poultry Science and Poultry Nutrition. With an academic path beginning with a diploma in Natural Sciences and progressing through B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees in Animal and Poultry Science from the University of Birjand, followed by a Ph.D. in Poultry Science from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, he has built a strong research portfolio in poultry nutrition, antioxidant strategies, heat-stress mitigation, feed additives, and improvement of poultry performance, immunity, lipid metabolism, skeletal health, intestinal morphology, and meat quality. His M.Sc. and Ph.D. dissertations focused on enriching egg yolk n-3 fatty acids and evaluating natural antioxidants in diets containing vegetable oils and tallow under heat stress in Arian broilers. Since joining academia in , Dr. Hosseini-Vashan has held key administrative roles as Head of the Animal Science Department and Head of the Animal Science Research Laboratory, and has served as Secretary of the First National Congress on Advances in Animal Sciences. He is an active member of several professional bodies including WPSA and the Iran Genetics Association. His teaching portfolio spans Poultry Production, Poultry Health, Nutrition, Biochemistry, Physiology, Diet Formulation, and Advanced Bioenergetics. He has authored numerous conference papers and peer-reviewed journal publications in prestigious Iranian and international journals, addressing nutritional interventions such as pomegranate peel, tomato pomace, turmeric, grape pomace, hempseed, nanoselenium, saffron petal extract, and functional feed additives in poultry and ostrich production systems. His research consistently emphasizes enhancing animal health and productivity under challenging environmental conditions, especially heat stress, and exploring natural, cost-effective, and sustainable dietary solutions for the modern poultry industry.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Hosseini-Vashan, S. J., Golian, A., & Yaghobfar, A. (2016). Growth, immune, antioxidant, and bone responses of heat stress-exposed broilers fed diets supplemented with tomato pomace. International Journal of Biometeorology, 60(8), 1183–1192.

Hosseini-Vashan, S. J., Golian, A., Yaghobfar, A., Zarban, A., Afzali, N., & … (2012). Antioxidant status, immune system, blood metabolites and carcass characteristic of broiler chickens fed turmeric rhizome powder under heat stress. African Journal of Biotechnology, 11(94), 16118–16125.

Safdari-Rostamabad, M., Hosseini-Vashan, S. J., Perai, A. H., & Sarir, H. (2017). Nanoselenium supplementation of heat-stressed broilers: Effects on performance, carcass characteristics, blood metabolites, immune response, antioxidant status, and jejunal morphology. Biological Trace Element Research, 178(1), 105–116.

Hosseini-Vashan, S. J., Safdari-Rostamabad, M., Piray, A. H., & Sarir, H. (2020). The growth performance, plasma biochemistry indices, immune system, antioxidant status, and intestinal morphology of heat-stressed broiler chickens fed grape (Vitis vinifera) pomace. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 259, 114343.

Sharifian, M., Hosseini-Vashan, S. J., Nasri, M. H. F., & Perai, A. H. (2019). Pomegranate peel extract for broiler chickens under heat stress: Its influence on growth performance, carcass traits, blood metabolites, immunity, jejunal morphology, and meat quality. Livestock Science, 227, 22–28.

Hosseini-Vashan, S. J., & Raei-Moghadam, M. S. (2019). Antioxidant and immune system status, plasma lipid, abdominal fat, and growth performance of broilers exposed to heat stress and fed diets supplemented with pomegranate pulp. Journal of Applied Animal Research, 47(1), 521–531.

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.

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

Jyoti Srivastava | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Scientist Day

Dr. Jyoti Srivastava | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jyoti Srivastava | Moffitt Cancer Center | United States

Dr. Jyoti Srivastava, Senior Research Scientist in the Department of Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis at Moffitt Cancer Center, is an accomplished molecular biologist with over 18 years of pioneering experience spanning cancer biology, immuno-oncology, and therapeutic discovery. Her multidisciplinary research integrates molecular genetics, pharmacology, redox biology, and genomics to uncover mechanisms driving tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. At Moffitt, Dr. Srivastava has made groundbreaking discoveries in melanoma, elucidating how redox and nitrosylation signaling pathways modulate immune evasion and therapeutic resistance in NRAS-driven cancers. Her work has identified actionable targets and led to the development of innovative RNAi-, PROTAC-, and small-molecule–based therapeutics that have advanced toward preclinical and clinical evaluation. Previously at Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals and Yale University, she spearheaded translational research programs that delivered clinical candidates for lung diseases and cancer, while uncovering novel oncogenic pathways such as AEG-1/MTDH in hepatocellular carcinoma and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Dr. Srivastava’s contributions—reflected in over 30 peer-reviewed publications, invited talks at major international conferences, and successful therapeutic innovations—underscore her leadership in bridging fundamental discoveries with clinical application, advancing next-generation strategies to combat cancer and chronic diseases.

Profiles: Google Scholar

Featured Publications 

Yoo, B. K., Santhekadur, P. K., Gredler, R., Chen, D., Emdad, L., Bhutia, S., … & Fisher, P. B. (2011). Increased RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) activity contributes to hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology, 53(5), 1538–1548. https://doi.org/10.1002/hep.24221

Santhekadur, P. K., Das, S. K., Gredler, R., Chen, D., Srivastava, J., Robertson, C., … & Fisher, P. B. (2012). Multifunction protein staphylococcal nuclease domain containing 1 (SND1) promotes tumor angiogenesis in human hepatocellular carcinoma through a novel pathway involving NF-κB and miR-221. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 287(17), 13952–13958. https://doi.org/10.1074/jbc.M111.323899

Sarkar, D., & Fisher, P. B. (2013). AEG-1/MTDH/Lyric: Clinical significance. Advances in Cancer Research, 120, 39–74. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-401676-7.00002-0

Srivastava, J., Siddiq, A., Emdad, L., Santhekadur, P. K., Chen, D., Gredler, R., … & Fisher, P. B. (2012). Astrocyte elevated gene-1 promotes hepatocarcinogenesis: Novel insights from a mouse model. Hepatology, 56(5), 1782–1791. https://doi.org/10.1002/hep.25841

Santhekadur, P. K., Akiel, M., Emdad, L., Gredler, R., Srivastava, J., … & Fisher, P. B. (2014). Staphylococcal nuclease domain containing-1 (SND1) promotes migration and invasion via angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) and TGF-β signaling. FEBS Open Bio, 4, 353–361. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fob.2014.03.001