Nicola Lawrence | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Nicola Lawrence | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Nicola K Lawrence is a highly accomplished supply chain and logistics professional with extensive expertise across automotive, FMCG, government, technology, telecommunications, transportation, logistics, and retail industries. She has demonstrated strong leadership in end-to-end supply chain optimisation, operational transformation, budgeting, procurement, logistics, and business strategy. Her experience includes leading large-scale change management initiatives, driving cost-saving programs, improving operational efficiencies, and implementing digital and process transformation projects. Nicola has successfully managed complex cross-functional teams, multimillion-rand budgets, warehouse and logistics operations, and international supply chain networks while consistently delivering measurable business improvements and sustainable organisational growth.

Professional Profile 

Education

Nicola K Lawrence has built a strong academic foundation in logistics management, supply chain operations, marketing, and project management. Her educational background reflects a commitment to continuous professional and academic development within the field of supply chain and business transformation. She completed advanced studies in logistics management at the University of Johannesburg, progressing from undergraduate studies in marketing management to postgraduate specialization in logistics and supply chain disciplines. In addition, she earned a globally recognized Project Management Professional certification, strengthening her expertise in project leadership, governance, operational execution, and strategic transformation initiatives. Her academic journey demonstrates a clear alignment between theoretical knowledge and practical application in modern supply chain ecosystems.

Professional Experience

Nicola K Lawrence possesses extensive professional experience across automotive, FMCG, government, retail, transportation, logistics, technology, and consulting industries. She has held senior leadership and management positions responsible for end-to-end supply chain operations, imports, warehousing, logistics, procurement, distribution, project management, and operational transformation. Throughout her career, she has successfully delivered multimillion-rand cost savings, implemented digital transformation strategies, optimized workflows, and improved operational governance across complex organizational structures. Her experience includes leading large-scale supply chain teams, overseeing P&L budgets, implementing forecasting and warehouse management systems, managing international logistics networks, and driving continuous improvement programs. She has also worked in consulting and nonprofit sectors, demonstrating versatility in both commercial and socially driven operational environments.

Research Interests

Nicola K Lawrence’s professional and academic interests are strongly focused on logistics management, supply chain optimization, operational efficiency, business transformation, and strategic process improvement. Her areas of interest include digital transformation within supply chains, inventory and demand planning systems, logistics technology implementation, procurement governance, warehouse optimization, lean operational practices, and organizational change management. She is particularly interested in how modern supply chain strategies can improve business sustainability, operational resilience, customer satisfaction, and financial performance. Her ongoing academic advancement further reflects an interest in contributing to research that supports innovation, supply chain modernization, and data-driven decision-making within global logistics and operations management environments.

Award and Honor

Throughout her professional journey, Nicola K Lawrence has earned recognition for her leadership, operational excellence, and impactful contributions to supply chain and business transformation initiatives. Her achievements include delivering substantial operational cost savings, improving logistics efficiency, reducing import lead times, and successfully implementing organization-wide change management programs. She has consistently demonstrated leadership in driving process optimization, governance improvement, and strategic operational planning within highly competitive industries. Her ability to lead cross-functional teams, execute complex transformation projects, and improve organizational performance highlights her standing as a respected professional in logistics and supply chain management. Her academic progression and professional certifications further reinforce her commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership in her field.

Conclusion

Nicola K Lawrence represents a dynamic and accomplished professional with significant expertise in logistics management, supply chain transformation, and operational leadership. Her combination of advanced academic qualifications, extensive cross-industry experience, strategic management capabilities, and commitment to continuous improvement positions her as a strong contributor to modern supply chain innovation and business excellence. She has consistently demonstrated the ability to optimize operational performance, lead transformational initiatives, and create measurable business value across diverse organizational environments. Her professional accomplishments and academic pursuits reflect a forward-thinking approach to supply chain management and highlight her potential to contribute meaningfully to research, industry advancement, and organizational growth on both regional and global levels.

Publications Top Noted

Exploring lean six sigma-enabled demand management: a case study of an automotive aftermarket parts distributor

Authors: Nicola Karen Lawrence; Joash Mageto; Gert Heyns
Year: 2026

Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

IMDEA Materiales Institute, Spain

Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska is an Associate Professor, Research Associate, and MSCA Project Manager specializing in food technology, nutrition, health sciences, and biomaterials engineering. Her research focuses on bioactive plant compounds, probiotics, synbiotics, microencapsulation, functional foods, and bioavailability studies. She has authored approximately 176 scientific publications, delivered numerous international conference presentations, and achieved significant citation impact with a strong h-index and total impact factor. Her work advances innovative functional food systems and controlled-release biomaterials with applications in preventive nutrition and nutraceuticals. She has extensive international research collaborations, editorial responsibilities, and active involvement in multidisciplinary scientific and industry-oriented projects.

Professional Profile 

Education

Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska has established a strong academic foundation in food technology, nutrition, health sciences, and biomaterials research through advanced scientific training and interdisciplinary research activities. Her educational and research background reflects a combination of analytical chemistry, food science, dietetics, and functional biomaterials engineering. Through her doctoral and postdoctoral academic development, she gained expertise in plant-derived bioactive compounds, polyphenols, anthocyanins, probiotics, prebiotics, and innovative functional food systems. Her academic progression demonstrates a commitment to integrating nutrition science with advanced biomaterial applications aimed at improving human health and preventive nutrition strategies. In addition to her formal qualifications, she has strengthened her expertise through international scientific collaborations and research appointments at globally recognized institutions, including the University of British Columbia, CSIC Nutrition, the University of Sevilla, and the IMDEA Materials Institute. Her educational journey has enabled her to build a multidisciplinary scientific profile that bridges food science, nutraceutical development, public health, and material sciences. This broad academic preparation has supported her ability to conduct innovative research focused on bioavailability, antioxidant activity, controlled release systems, and the development of advanced functional food technologies.

Professional Experience

Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska has extensive professional experience as an Associate Professor, Research Associate, and international research project manager. Her career demonstrates strong involvement in both academic research and applied industry-oriented innovation. She has participated in more than ten national and international projects as a project manager, co-investigator, expert, fellow, and supervisor, reflecting her leadership capabilities in multidisciplinary scientific environments. Her professional activities include managing advanced research initiatives focused on microencapsulation technologies, functional food systems, synbiotics, plant bioactive compounds, and controlled-release biomaterial applications. She has also collaborated with industry partners in projects related to chokeberry juice optimization, sulfur-free wine production, and gluten-free functional raw materials, contributing to the transfer of scientific research into practical food and nutrition solutions. Her scientific productivity includes approximately 176 peer-reviewed publications and nearly 200 conference presentations, demonstrating sustained research excellence and international scientific engagement. In addition to her research activities, she has served in several editorial and scientific leadership roles, including editorial board memberships, guest editor appointments, and participation in reviewer panels for scientific journals and research funding organizations. Her professional profile is further strengthened by collaborations with leading universities, medical institutions, and research centers across Europe and Canada. Through these experiences, she has contributed significantly to interdisciplinary research, scientific mentorship, innovation management, and the advancement of nutrition and biomaterials science.

Research Interests

The research interests of Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska focus on the intersection of food technology, nutrition science, biomaterials engineering, and health-oriented functional systems. Her work primarily investigates plant secondary metabolites, including polyphenols and anthocyanins, and their role in improving human health through functional food applications. She has extensive expertise in probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and innovative microencapsulation systems designed to enhance the stability, bioaccessibility, and bioavailability of bioactive compounds. A major area of her research involves the development of layer-by-layer biopolymer systems and controlled-release technologies that improve the delivery and effectiveness of nutraceutical ingredients. Her studies also explore antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anti-obesity activities associated with plant-derived compounds and functional food ingredients. In addition, she is actively involved in research related to precision nutrition and public health, aiming to create scientifically validated dietary strategies that support disease prevention and overall wellness. Her multidisciplinary research integrates analytical chemistry, in vitro biological models, food engineering, and biomaterial characterization to address modern challenges in nutrition and health sciences. Through innovative methodologies and collaborative international projects, she continues to contribute to the development of advanced functional foods and sustainable health-promoting technologies with both scientific and industrial relevance.

Award and Honor

Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska has earned significant recognition for her contributions to food science, nutrition, and biomaterials research through her scientific achievements, leadership roles, and international collaborations. Her strong publication record, citation impact, and editorial contributions reflect her standing within the global scientific community. She has achieved a notable Scopus h-index and a high citation count, demonstrating the influence and relevance of her research in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and bioactive compound delivery systems. Her involvement in prestigious international projects funded by major scientific organizations highlights the trust placed in her expertise and leadership capabilities. In addition to her research accomplishments, she has received recognition through appointments as guest editor, editorial board member, and scientific reviewer for internationally indexed journals and research funding bodies. Her contributions to interdisciplinary research and innovation have positioned her as a respected expert in the fields of food technology and preventive nutrition. She has also played important roles in scientific councils, doctoral and habilitation committees, and academic evaluation panels, reflecting her professional reputation and commitment to scientific excellence. Her international collaborations with universities, research institutes, and industry partners further emphasize the global impact of her work and her active participation in advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

Conclusion

Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska represents a distinguished researcher whose career combines scientific innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and impactful contributions to food technology, nutrition, and biomaterials science. Her expertise in bioactive compounds, functional food systems, and controlled-release technologies has contributed significantly to the advancement of preventive nutrition and health-oriented research. Through extensive publications, international projects, editorial leadership, and collaborative scientific initiatives, she has demonstrated consistent excellence in both academic and applied research environments. Her work not only advances scientific understanding but also supports the development of practical solutions for improving food quality, human health, and nutraceutical innovation. With a strong international profile and a multidisciplinary research approach, she continues to make meaningful contributions to global scientific progress and the future of functional food and health sciences.

Shubham Bhattacharjee | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Shubham Bhattacharjee | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

IIT Roorkee, India

Shubham Bhattacharjee is a Geomatics researcher specializing in remote sensing, GIS, SAR polarimetry, glacier dynamics, and environmental modeling. He is pursuing a PhD at Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee and previously earned an Integrated M.Tech. in Geoinformatics with academic distinction from Central University of Jharkhand. His research focuses on glacier mass balance, sea ice monitoring, flood mapping, avalanche susceptibility, and land cover change prediction using geospatial and machine learning techniques. He has completed research internships at reputed institutions and authored multiple publications in leading international journals, demonstrating strong expertise in cryospheric studies, climate applications, disaster assessment, and advanced geospatial analytics.

Professional Profile 

Education

Shubham Bhattacharjee has established a strong academic foundation in geomatics, geoinformatics, and geospatial sciences through consistent academic excellence and specialized higher education. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Geomatics Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, one of India’s leading institutions for engineering and technological research. His doctoral research focuses on advanced remote sensing applications, glacier dynamics, cryospheric studies, and geospatial modeling techniques. Prior to his doctoral studies, he completed an Integrated M.Tech. in Geoinformatics from Central University of Jharkhand with outstanding academic distinction. He secured an exceptional CGPA and was honored with both the Gold Medal and Chancellor’s Medal for academic excellence. His educational journey reflects a deep commitment to interdisciplinary scientific research, combining spatial technologies, computational methods, environmental science, and satellite data analytics. During his academic training, he developed expertise in remote sensing, GIS, machine learning, spatial modeling, and digital image processing, which later became the foundation of his research career.

Professional Experience

Shubham Bhattacharjee has gained valuable research and technical experience through multiple internships and scientific projects conducted at nationally recognized institutions. His professional experience demonstrates strong exposure to geospatial technologies, environmental monitoring, disaster assessment, and spatial data analysis. During his internship at Tata Institute of Social Sciences, he worked on land use land cover and land surface temperature estimation for solar power panel site suitability analysis, integrating geospatial methods with sustainable energy planning. At North Eastern Space Applications Centre, he conducted landslide susceptibility mapping for Arunachal Pradesh using GIS-based analytical methods including AHP, frequency ratio techniques, and neural network models. He also completed research training at Banaras Hindu University, where he analyzed morphometric and morphotectonic characteristics of river basins using remote sensing and GIS approaches. In addition to internships, he has contributed to several advanced projects involving glacier mass balance estimation, glacier surface velocity analysis using SAR data, flood inundation mapping through Google Earth Engine, avalanche susceptibility assessment in high-altitude regions, fishing potential zonation mapping, and environmental impact studies related to air pollution and COVID-19. His professional experience highlights his capability to apply geospatial technologies to complex environmental and climatic challenges.

Research Interests

Shubham Bhattacharjee’s research interests are centered on geomatics engineering, cryospheric science, remote sensing, and geospatial applications for environmental monitoring and disaster management. His work primarily focuses on glacier dynamics, glacier mass balance estimation, SAR polarimetry, ice thickness modeling, and glacier surface velocity assessment across the Himalayan and Karakoram regions. He has significant expertise in utilizing Synthetic Aperture Radar data, Google Earth Engine, machine learning algorithms, neural networks, and GIS-based spatial analysis for large-scale environmental studies. His research also extends to sea ice concentration and drift analysis, climate variability studies, flood hazard mapping, avalanche susceptibility assessment, land cover change prediction, and coastal resource monitoring. He has demonstrated strong interest in integrating geospatial technologies with computational techniques to improve environmental assessment and predictive modeling. His scientific contributions reveal a multidisciplinary research approach that combines geosciences, climatology, hydrology, cryosphere studies, and artificial intelligence-driven spatial analytics. Through his research, he aims to contribute toward sustainable environmental management, climate change understanding, and disaster risk reduction using advanced geoinformatics methodologies.

Awards and Honors

Shubham Bhattacharjee has received several academic distinctions and competitive recognitions that reflect his scholarly excellence and technical expertise in geomatics and geospatial science. One of his most notable achievements includes receiving the Gold Medal and Chancellor’s Medal during his Integrated M.Tech. studies for outstanding academic performance and institutional excellence. He also qualified the UGC-NET examination in Geography with a very high percentile, demonstrating strong conceptual knowledge and research aptitude in geographical sciences and spatial studies. Furthermore, he achieved excellent rankings in the highly competitive GATE examination in Geomatics Engineering, securing impressive All India Ranks that highlight his technical proficiency and analytical capabilities. His growing publication record in reputed international journals further reflects recognition of his research contributions within the scientific community. The combination of academic honors, national-level examination achievements, and impactful scientific publications demonstrates his consistent dedication to excellence in research and higher education.

Conclusion

Shubham Bhattacharjee represents a promising and accomplished researcher in the field of geomatics engineering and geospatial sciences. His academic excellence, advanced technical expertise, and significant research contributions demonstrate a strong commitment to addressing environmental and cryospheric challenges through innovative geospatial technologies. His work on glacier dynamics, climate-related studies, disaster assessment, and remote sensing applications reflects both scientific depth and practical relevance. Through interdisciplinary research integrating GIS, SAR, machine learning, and computational modeling, he has contributed valuable insights to environmental monitoring and sustainable resource management. His consistent academic achievements, research experience at reputed institutions, and growing international publication record position him as an emerging scholar with the potential to make substantial contributions to geomatics, cryosphere science, and environmental research at the global level.

Doaa Badran | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Doaa Badran | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award 

University of King Khalid | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Doaa Mohamed Ibrahim Badran is a distinguished Professor of Public Law with extensive academic and administrative experience in leading universities across Saudi Arabia. She specializes in constitutional law, administrative law, environmental legislation, and emerging legal issues related to technology and artificial intelligence. Her research portfolio includes numerous publications indexed in Web of Science and Scopus, along with several authored legal books. She has held key leadership roles, contributed to academic quality and accreditation, and secured multiple research grants and awards. Her teaching spans undergraduate and postgraduate levels, covering diverse areas such as public law, cybercrime, and international law.

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Featured Publications

M. Mottakin | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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