Zakieh Taghizadeh | Government and Public Policy Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Zakieh Taghizadeh | Government and Public Policy Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Fribourg University | Iran

Dr. Zakieh Taghizadeh Pirposhteh is a scholar of public international law, biodiversity governance, and marine genetic resource regulation. She holds an LL.M in International Contracts & Arbitration (University of Fribourg, 2024–2025), a UN-Nippon Fellowship in the Law of the Sea and Ocean (New York, 2014–2015), and earlier attained a Master of Law in Public International Law and Bachelor of Law in Legal Studies and Jurisprudence (Tehran, Iran). Her professional roles include serving as Legal Counselor at the United Nations Office (Geneva, 2020–2022), Asia-Pacific Regional Coordinator at WIPO (2023–2024), and Research Associate on marine biodiversity, law of the sea, and genetic resource governance at the University of Tehran (2015–2020). Her publications include BBNJ Agreement and Intellectual Property Implications for Marine Genetic Resource Management in ABNJ (2024) and Marine Genetic Resources as Common Heritage of Mankind (2024), among others. According to Google Scholar, Her research interests center on marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, arbitration in digital sequence information disputes, benefit-sharing frameworks, human rights and indigenous peoples’ rights, intergenerational equity, and international ocean law. She has been recognized as a reviewer for multiple journals and awarded a WIPO–Harvard Certificate in Patent Law and Global Public Health (2025), and was nominated by the Asia & Pacific Group of WIPO as an expert to the IGC advisory boards. Driven by a commitment to sustainable governance and global justice, Dr. Taghizadeh continues to bridge legal scholarship and multilateral policy engagement in marine and biodiversity law.

Profile : Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Taghizadeh, Z. (2025). “Marine Genetic Resources as Common Heritage of Mankind under the BBNJ Agreement: The International Community toward a Pragmatic Benefit-Sharing Approach?” in Biodiversity and Conservation, 34(1), 131–153.

Taghizadeh, Z., & Asgarian, H. (2024). “BBNJ Agreement and Intellectual Property Implications for Marine Genetic Resources Management in ABNJ” in The International Journal of Marine and Coastal Law, 1(aop), 1–32.

Taghizadeh, Z. (2025). “Intergenerational and Intra-generational Equity under the BBNJ Agreement: Advancing Accountability toward Sustainable Management of the Marine Environment” in Environmental Management, 1–19.

Taghizadeh, Z., & Asgarian, H. (2025). “From Global Commons to Global Accountability: The Erga Omnes Obligation to Safeguard Marine Biological Diversity as Common Heritage of Humankind” in Journal of International Wildlife Law & Policy, 28(2), 193–220.

Taghizadeh, Z. (2021). “Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing in the Exclusive Economic Zone: Legal Analysis of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea’s Approach in Its Advisory Opinion” in International Journal of Maritime Policy, 1(1), 5–36.

Simon Adu | Nuclear Security and Nonproliferation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Simon Adu | Nuclear Security and Nonproliferation | Best Researcher Award

Texas A&M university | United States

Dr. Simon Adu is a distinguished researcher in Radiation Protection and Health Physics with over 16 years of professional experience. He holds a PhD (2016) and MPhil (2008) in Radiation Protection/Health Physics from the University of Ghana, and a BSc in Physics from the University of Cape Coast. He has held senior roles as Senior Research Scientist at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Senior Regulatory Officer heading the Department of Nuclear Security at Ghana’s Nuclear Regulatory Authority, and Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana. His work encompasses radiation safety in medical, industrial, mining and research reactor settings; calibration; regulatory inspections; nuclear security; non-proliferation; and education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. He has supervised PhD and MSc students, reviewed theses externally in several African universities, participated in numerous IAEA-coordinated research projects, and has been awarded prestigious fellowships including the Stanton Fellowship, the IAEA PhD Sandwich Award, and Argonne National Laboratory fellowship. His research interests include nuclear safety, reactor core conversion (HEU to LEU), radiation dosimetry, nuclear security and safeguards. He is also an IAEA nuclear security expert participating in missions across Africa. Dr. Adu’s contributions have significantly advanced regulatory frameworks, improved safety culture, and strengthened capacity building in radiation protection and nuclear security across the region.

Profile : Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Doudoo, C. O., Gyekye, P. K., Emi-Reynolds, G., Adu, S., Kpeglo, D. O., Tagoe, S. N. A., & others (2023). “Dose and secondary cancer-risk estimation of patients undergoing high dose rate intracavitary gynaecological brachytherapy.” Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, 54 (2), 335–342.

Hasford, F., Owusu-Banahene, J., Otoo, F., Adu, S., Sosu, E. K., Amoako, J. K., & others (2012). “Assessment of annual whole-body occupational radiation exposure in education, research and industrial sectors in Ghana (2000–09).” Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 150 (3), 350–358.

Arwui, C. C., Deatanyah, P., Wotorchi-Gordon, S., Ankaah, J., Emi-Reynolds, G., Adu, S., & others (2011). “Assessment of the effectiveness of collimation of Cs–137 panoramic beam on TLD calibration using a constructed lead block collimator and an ICRU slab phantom at SSDL in Ghana.” International Journal of Science and Technology, 1 (4), 169–173.

Ndum, Z. N., Tao, J., Liu, Y., Ford, J., Vlassov, V., Morton, N., Grissom, J., Adu, S., & others (2024). “A digital twin-based simulator for small modular and microreactors.” Proceedings of the 2024 Winter Simulation Conference (WSC), 2963–2974.

Adu, S., Horvatovic, I., D’Auria, F., Nyarko, B. B. J., Geoffrey, E. R., & Menzel, F. (2015). “Analysis of channel blockage of MNSR reactor using the system thermal-hydraulic code RELAP5/MOD3.3.” Proceedings of the 24th International Conference on Nuclear Energy for New Europe, Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Birikorang, S. A., Dahunsi, S., Adu, S., Nketia, C. A., & Blay, A. (2025). “Assessing nuclear energy and radiological risks: a case study of radionuclide dispersion from potential nuclear power plant accidents in Ghana.” Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 201 (5), 333–350.

Jani Grey Kasunda | Government and Public Policy Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jani Grey Kasunda | Government and Public Policy Analysis | Best Researcher Award

 The Parliament Of Malawi | Malawi

Mr. Jani Grey Kasunda is a versatile, creative, and results-driven professional with over 13 years of extensive experience in journalism, communication, research, and program implementation across media, academia, and governance. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Malawi and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in International Relations at Jinan University, China (expected 2027). His career spans roles as Reporter at Nation Publications Limited, Editor at Matindi FM, Lecturer at the Malawi Institute of Journalism, and currently Editor of Hansard at the Malawi National Assembly. He has made notable contributions to parliamentary communication strategies, public relations, policy document drafting, and information dissemination. His research and professional interests focus on communication strategies, media and governance, information management, public relations, and capacity building for journalists. Kasunda’s work has been recognized with the prestigious Dr. David Livingstone Memorial Awards (2008 and 2010). reflecting his impact in communication and media-related research. With a strong background in writing, editing, teaching, and mentoring, Kasunda continues to influence institutional communication, enhance media professionalism, and strengthen knowledge dissemination. He is committed to advancing impactful communication for development and governance transformation.

Profile : Orcid 

Featured Publication

“China’s global governance strategy and the revival of leftist ideologies in Africa: a constructivist analysis of norm diffusion and political alignment”

Fnu Kajal – Governance and system strengthening – Best Researcher Award

Dr Fnu Kajal - Governance and system strengthening - Best Researcher Award 

University of Arizona - United States 

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Kajal began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (M.B.B.S) from Baba Farid University of Health Sciences in 2001, securing the first position. She further pursued a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) in Obstetrics & Gynecology from the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, earning a Silver Medal in June 2006. Her commitment to academic excellence continued with a Master's in Global Health Sciences (M.Sc.) from the University of California, San Francisco, where she maintained a GPA of 3.66.

Professional Endeavors

After completing her education, Dr. Kajal entered the Indian Administrative Services (IAS) in September 2008. Over the years, she held various significant roles, showcasing her leadership and strategic skills. Noteworthy positions include:

  • Director, DPIIT (Delhi, India), Ministry of Commerce and Industry (January 2023-Present): Dr. Kajal spearheaded policy design for industrial development, capacity building, and implementation of central government schemes.
  • Executive Director, REC Ltd (Gurugram, India), Ministry of Power (April 2021-January 2023): Dr. Kajal streamlined a government program, led data strategy initiatives, and transformed sectors through CSR funds.
  • Director, Urban Development (Lucknow, UP), Government of Uttar Pradesh (December 2018-January 2021): Dr. Kajal initiated the SAMBHAV program during COVID, secured Direct Benefit Transfers, and maximized technology for pandemic management.

Contributions and Research Focus

During her sabbatical from September 2016 to October 2018, Dr. Kajal engaged in research activities:

  • Graduate Research Assistant (San Francisco, US): Contributed to articles funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Center for Health Market Innovations, focusing on health accessibility in Uttar Pradesh, India, and payment platforms for Universal Health Coverage in Zambia.
  • Technical Advisor, Department of Community Health Sciences, Winnipeg (October 2017-October 2018): Provided technical support for RMNCH+A interventions globally, collaborated with governments, and engaged with organizations to implement research initiatives.
  • Temp Employee, Department of Population Health and Outcome Research, Stanford University (October 2017-August 2018): Developed interventions for policymakers on non-communicable diseases in rural Uttar Pradesh and collaborated on systematic research.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Kajal received recognition for her achievements:

  • Director, REC Ltd: Led the Data Strategy Unit, headed the National Smart Mission Taskforce, and transformed sectors through CSR funds, earning appreciation for her contributions.
  • Managing Director, UP New and Renewable Energy Development Agency & PuVVNL: Received a certificate of appreciation from the Chief Minister for providing metered connections to 900,000 households in a record time of 2 months.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Kajal's impact is evident in her roles:

  • Additional Commissioner/District Revenue Collector (Mahoba, UP): Introduced policies addressing violence against women and tobacco cessation, organized low-cost sanitary napkin production, and won prizes for data collection.
  • Additional Mission Director & Special Secretary, UP National Health Mission: Planned and budgeted for National Health Mission projects, introduced emergency transport services, and framed interventions for respectful maternal care.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Currently pursuing a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) at the University of Arizona, Dr. Kajal is contributing to academia as an Adjunct Faculty in Bangalore and a Graduate Research Assistant in Tucson. Her commitment to teaching, research, and promoting positive learning environments exemplifies her dedication to shaping the future of public health.

Notable Publication

John Black | Best Researcher Award | Real-world Case Studies

John Black - UNSW Sydney - Real-world Case Studies🏆

Prof Dr John Black : Real-world Case Studies

Professional profile:

Early Academic Pursuits:

Prof Dr John Black, a distinguished professional in the field of urban and regional planning, commenced their academic journey at UNSW, where they later served as the Director of the UNSW Transport Program from 1997 to 2000. Their academic contributions include significant involvement in various studies, such as the formulation of urban development prototypes for the Multi-Function Polis (MFP) in 1990 and the Commonwealth Urban and Regional Development Review.

Professional Endeavors:

Over the years, Prof Dr John Black has been engaged in numerous consultancy projects spanning a diverse range of clients and projects. Notable projects include the "Peer Review of Traffic and Urban Release Area, Maitland, NSW" for the Maitland City Council in 2011-12 and the "Capacity Building for the Indonesian Ministry of Finance on PPP and Infrastructure" for UNSW Global in 2010. The comprehensive list of clients showcases the breadth of their professional network, including government bodies, international organizations, and academic institutions.

Contributions and Research Focus:

Prof Dr John Black has made substantial contributions to the fields of urban and regional planning, transport planning, and infrastructure development. Their involvement in projects like the "Sydney Metropolitan Freight Strategy" and "Transport Impact Assessment Draft Guidelines" demonstrates a keen interest in addressing contemporary transport challenges. Their expertise is further exemplified by roles such as an Independent Reviewer and Principal Consultant in various strategic transport studies.

Accolades and Recognition:

Throughout their career, Prof Dr John Black has earned recognition for their expertise and contributions. Notable achievements include serving as a Member of the expert panel on Metropolitan Strategy Update and Integrated Transport Study by the NSW Minister for Urban Planning and Housing. This acknowledgment underscores their impact on shaping strategic urban planning initiatives.

Impact and Influence:

Prof Dr John Black's work has had a profound impact on transport planning policies and urban development strategies. Their involvement in projects like the "Development of Traffic Impact Guidelines" and "Integrated Land Use and Transport - Development of Strategy" highlights a commitment to creating sustainable and efficient urban environments. The peer reviews, expert panels, and strategic advisory roles demonstrate their influence in shaping policies at both local and international levels.

Legacy and Future Contributions:

With a career spanning from 1975 to the present, Prof Dr John Black has established a lasting legacy in the field of urban and transport planning. Their contributions, documented through numerous reports and studies, serve as valuable resources for future researchers and practitioners. As they continue to address emerging challenges in urban development and transportation, their legacy is likely to endure through the positive impact of their work on planning practices and policies.

Notable Publication: