Basmah Alzamil | Social Impact | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Basmah Alzamil | Social Impact | Best Researcher Award

Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Basmah Alzamil is an Assistant Professor at Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud Islamic University, specializing in organizational behavior, strategic management, and entrepreneurship. She earned her Ph.D. in Business Administration from King Saud University in 2023 with distinction, following an MBA from Saginaw Valley State University and a BBA from King Saud University, graduating with second honors. Her academic career includes extensive teaching experience in research methods, strategic management, performance management, administrative leadership, entrepreneurship, project management, and crisis management. She has also supervised cooperative training programs, organized practical training initiatives, and contributed to curriculum development. Dr. Alzamil’s research focuses on digital leadership, creative deviance, organizational socialization, workplace behavior, and the effects of digital transformation on employee performance and innovation. Her recent publications explore topics such as the mediating role of paradox mindset, the impact of digital leadership on toxic workplaces, and the influence of social support on workplace deviance. She has presented her work at international conferences and participated in professional development courses in research creativity, communication, and leadership. Dr. Alzamil’s scholarship bridges theory and practice, emphasizing evidence-based strategies for organizational development, innovation, and sustainable workplace practices, contributing to both academic research and practical applications in management.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Alzamil, B. S. (2025). “Employees’ Creative Deviance in Response to Digitalization and Knowledge: The Mediating Role of Employees’ Paradox Mindset.” Journal of Innovation & Knowledge.

Alzamil, B., & Alyafi, R. S. (2024). “Perceived Social Support and Workplace Deviant Behaviors: The Mediating Role of Self-Esteem in Employees in Saudi Arabia.” Journal Article.

Alzamil, B. S., & Alyafi, R. S. (2022). “Organizational Socialization Applicability, Measurements, and Theories: A Systematic Review and Guideline for Future Research.” International Journal of Business Management and Economic Review.

Sharon L Burton | Cybersecurity Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sharon L Burton | Cybersecurity Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | United States

Dr. Sharon L. Burton is a distinguished faculty member and industry consultant whose work bridges cybersecurity governance, risk management, AI‑driven education, and human resources strategy. She holds a Ph.D. in Cybersecurity Leadership (2022) and a DBA in Quality Systems Management (2015), alongside dual MBAs in Management and HRM. Her career spans roles as Assistant Professor of the Practice in the College of Aviation at Embry‑Riddle and Doctoral Dissertation Chair at Capitol Technology University. Dr. Burton has authored 38 documents with 157 citations, reflecting an h‑index of 5, demonstrating substantial contributions across domains. Her research interests include cybersecurity leadership, organizational behaviour in cyber contexts, AI/augmented education, and workforce resilience. She has published notable articles such as “Cybersecurity Leaders: Knowledge Driving Human Capital Development” and “Exploring the Nexus of Cybersecurity Leadership, Human Factors, Emotional Intelligence, Innovative Work Behavior and Critical Leadership Traits.” Her teaching embodies a student‑centred philosophy: hands‑on projects, reflective feedback, ethical responsibility, and real‑world problem solving. Among her recognitions are awards for teaching excellence, leadership development, and organisational transformation. In summary, Dr. Burton effectively synthesizes academic rigour and practitioner insight to prepare graduates and organisations for leadership in an ever‑evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Burton, S. L. (2025). “A Modular Framework for Cybersecurity Laboratory Design in Higher Education.” Laboratories.

Burton, S. L. (2025). “Navigating Digital Transformation.” In Book Chapter.

Burton, S. L. (2025). “Digital Saboteurs: Unmasking Insider Cybersecurity Threats in Aviation and Aerospace.” Law, Economics and Society.

Burton, S. L. (2024). “Advancing Cybersecurity.” In Book Chapter.

Burton, S. L. (2024). “Cybersecure Futures.” In Book Chapter.

Greene, B. A., & Burton, S. L. (2024). “Organizational Readiness for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Network Security.” In Book Chapter.

Melanie Neeb | Regression Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Melanie Neeb | Regression Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Regierungspräsidium Giessen | Germany

Dr. Melanie Neeb is an accomplished academic, policy advisor, and project manager whose career bridges the fields of business administration, human resource management, and public administration. She has built an outstanding reputation as both a researcher and practitioner, with contributions that extend across academia, government, and organizational development. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing effective human resource strategies, managing complex governmental projects, and contributing to academic knowledge on leadership and employee benefits. Through her diverse roles, she has demonstrated strong leadership, innovative thinking, and a commitment to addressing pressing societal and organizational challenges.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Neeb pursued her higher education at Justus Liebig University Giessen, where she earned both her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Business Administration. Her doctoral research on employee benefits pooling, graded magna cum laude, offered an innovative approach to optimizing employee benefits for large organizations and has been recognized as a significant contribution to the field. Prior to this, she earned her Master’s degree in Business Administration with distinction, completing one of the best diplomas of her graduating semester. Her academic training established a strong foundation in strategic management, organizational behavior, and financial decision-making, all of which continue to shape her career and research focus.

Experience

Dr. Neeb currently serves as Head of Department and Project Manager at the Giessen Regional Council of the Hessian Ministry of the Interior, where she manages large-scale projects focused on refugee reception and integration. In this role, she oversees crisis management initiatives and implements innovative tools such as payment card systems for refugees, ensuring efficient and transparent processes. Leading a team of 18 employees, she coordinates with both governmental and non-governmental actors, showcasing her ability to balance strategic oversight with operational execution. Her career also reflects significant contributions to academia. As a lecturer at the Technical University of Central Hesse and previously at Justus Liebig University Giessen, she has taught courses in business administration, economics, finance, and project management, fostering the next generation of business professionals. Beyond academia and government service, she has also worked as a freelance consultant, providing specialized solutions in the insurance sector, further underlining her versatility across domains.

Research Interests

Dr. Neeb’s research interests lie at the intersection of human resource management, employee benefits, and organizational behavior. She has consistently explored how organizations can optimize benefits programs to enhance employee engagement and organizational efficiency while controlling costs. Her studies also examine the impact of flexible working models, demographic changes, and leadership effectiveness, particularly in the context of an aging population and a shortage of skilled labor. She is especially interested in the long-term sustainability of organizations, focusing on how innovative HR strategies and leadership approaches can help companies remain competitive in rapidly evolving environments. Her work blends theoretical insights with practical applications, making her research highly relevant for both scholars and practitioners.

Awards and Achievements

Dr. Neeb’s academic and professional journey is marked by numerous achievements that highlight both scholarly excellence and practical impact. Her doctoral dissertation on employee benefits pooling was later published as a monograph, offering groundbreaking insights into pooling strategies for multinational organizations. Her publications in respected journals such as PERSONALquarterly and contributions to the insurance sciences reflect her ability to address diverse aspects of management, from leadership effectiveness to compensation strategies. She has been recognized for her innovative approaches to human resource management, particularly in areas such as work-life balance, part-time models, and leadership in times of demographic change. Beyond academia, her role in policy implementation and crisis management has had a significant societal impact, especially in the integration and support of refugees. These achievements illustrate her ability to combine scholarly research with real-world problem-solving at both organizational and governmental levels.

Publications

Neeb, M. (2009). Employee Benefits Pooling. Logos Verlag.

Neeb, M., Riedel, O. (2004). “Zur Anwendung des Bühlmann/Straub-Verfahrens in der Außendienstentlohnung.” Zeitschrift für die gesamte Versicherungswissenschaft, 3, 405–439.

Neeb, M., Bacouel-Jentjens, S. (2017). “Alter, Arbeitserfahrung und effektive Führung.” PERSONALquarterly, 3, 36–41.

Neeb, M., Wehner, M. (2014). “Part-time – A Sensible Model for the Future?” PERSONALquarterly, 4, 22–27.

(2025), Transformational and transactional leadership: A job tenure perspective

Conclusion

Dr. Melanie Neeb exemplifies a professional whose career successfully unites academic research, teaching, and practical leadership in government and business contexts. With expertise spanning human resource management, employee benefits, leadership strategies, and public administration, she has made significant contributions to both scholarly discourse and public policy. Her ability to manage complex projects, guide organizational change, and mentor future professionals underscores her influence as a leader in her field. Driven by a passion for sustainability, equity, and innovation in the workplace, Dr. Neeb continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of human resource practices and organizational management. Her career reflects a rare blend of scholarly excellence, practical leadership, and social responsibility, making her a respected figure in academia, public service, and beyond.

Jennifer Feitosa | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jennifer Feitosa | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

Claremont McKenna College | United States

Dr. Jennifer Feitosa is an accomplished scholar and educator in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychological Sciences at Claremont McKenna College. She is widely recognized for her expertise in team dynamics, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and organizational behavior. Her career reflects a strong commitment to advancing psychological science through research, teaching, and mentorship across international contexts. With extensive academic positions in the United States and Europe, including roles at Claremont Graduate University, IE University, and Universidad Carlos III de Madrid as a U.S. Fulbright Scholar, she bridges cross-cultural perspectives in the study of teamwork and organizational performance.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Feitosa earned her Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from the University of Central Florida, where her doctoral research explored the role of mutual trust in explaining diversity-performance relationships, funded by the U.S. Army Research Laboratory. Her academic journey began with a B.S. in Psychology, where she graduated with honors and completed a thesis on diversity, openness, and ethnic similarity in team collaboration. Her educational background set the stage for her lifelong focus on the intersection of psychology, teamwork, and organizational science.

Experience

Her academic career spans prestigious institutions. At Claremont McKenna College, she advanced from Assistant to Associate Professor, teaching core courses in organizational psychology, statistics, and team leadership with a DEI focus. She also contributes as extended faculty at Claremont Graduate University’s Division of Behavioral & Organizational Sciences. Internationally, she has served as Visiting Professor at IE University in Madrid and Universidad Carlos III de Madrid through a Fulbright appointment, as well as a Visiting Scholar at Universitat de Barcelona under Erasmus Mundus sponsorship. Earlier in her career, she was an Assistant Professor at Brooklyn College, City University of New York, and Doctoral Faculty at the Graduate Center, CUNY. These roles highlight her ability to integrate research, cross-cultural engagement, and innovative pedagogy.

Research Interest

Dr. Feitosa’s research centers on teamwork, diversity, and belonging in organizational contexts. She investigates how relational networks, trust, and inclusivity influence team effectiveness, particularly in multicultural and global settings. Her projects have addressed pressing issues such as sustaining performance amidst rapid change, family-building friendly climates, DEI in classrooms and workplaces, and belonging in international assignments. Her work extends to specialized domains, including space exploration, where she has collaborated on NASA-funded initiatives for multicultural training of astronauts. Through her METRICS Lab, she emphasizes applied research that informs organizations on building inclusive, high-performing teams in rapidly evolving environments.

Awards

Dr. Feitosa’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. She received the U.S. Scholar Fulbright Award for her research in Spain, the Carolyn Dexter Best International Paper Award finalist recognition, and the J. Richard Hackman Award finalist distinction for her doctoral dissertation advancing group research. At Claremont McKenna College, she has been honored with Faculty Research Grant Awards, an Anti-Racism Faculty Fellowship, and nominations for Faculty Community Excellence Awards. Her METRICS Lab earned CMC’s Organization Community Excellence Award, underscoring her leadership in fostering inclusive academic communities. She has also received recognition as Reviewer of the Year by the Journal of Business and Psychology, highlighting her role in advancing scholarly standards.

Publications

Feitosa, J. (2025). “The Relevance of Glocal Support for DEIB: A Mixed-Method Approach.” Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal.

Handke, L., Costa, P., Feitosa, J. (2025). “How Virtual Are We? Introducing the Team Perceived Virtuality Scale.” Journal of Business and Psychology.

Feitosa, J., Almeida, A.M., Ishee, T. (2025). “Microaggressions in the Workplace: A Guide for Managers.” Merits. DOI: 10.3390/merits5020010.

Sim, J.J., Feitosa, J. (2025). “Elton Mayo (1880–1949).” In Handbook of Management Thinkers, Routledge.

Shirley, S.L., Feitosa, J. (2024). “Challenging Assumptions: Gender, Peer Evaluations, and the Broken Rung in Leadership Trajectories.” Merits, 4(3), 19.

Feitosa, J., Davis, A.S., Romain, R., Delice, F. (2024). “Team Membership Change Events: Processes That Support Gender Diverse Teams.” Small Group Research.

Conclusion

Through her educational background, international academic experience, impactful research, and award-winning contributions, Dr. Jennifer Feitosa exemplifies the role of a global scholar bridging psychological science with organizational practice. Her focus on diversity, trust, and team performance reflects both a theoretical and applied commitment to advancing inclusive and effective work environments. As an educator, mentor, and researcher, she continues to shape the future of Industrial-Organizational Psychology, empowering teams and organizations to thrive in dynamic, multicultural contexts.

Igor Gurkov – Organizational design Award – Outstanding Scientist

Prof. Igor Gurkov - Organizational design Award - Outstanding Scientist Award

National Research University – Higher School of Economics - Russia

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Igor B. Gurkov embarked on his academic journey with a degree in Political Economy from Lomonosov Moscow State University in 1987. This foundational education laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in academia. Subsequently, he pursued advanced studies, achieving the prestigious title of Candidate of Sciences, a degree equivalent to a doctoral level according to the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) 2011. His academic pursuits reflect a deep-seated interest in the intersection of economics, politics, and organizational behavior, which would later define his research focus.

Professional Endeavors

Prof. Gurkov's professional trajectory encompasses a rich tapestry of experiences across esteemed institutions worldwide. Noteworthy among these are his stints at renowned academic institutions such as INSEAD, Harvard Business School, London School of Economics, University Paris-IX, Schulich School of Business (York University, Toronto, Canada), and IMTA, Bled School of Business (Slovenia). These experiences not only honed his academic acumen but also exposed him to diverse perspectives in the fields of business, management, and organizational studies.

Contributions and Research Focus On Organizational design Award

Prof. Gurkov's scholarly contributions have significantly enriched the discourse on multinational corporations, strategic management, and organizational behavior. His research delves into pertinent issues such as corporate parenting styles, digitalization, stakeholder management, and the impact of global disruptions on multinational corporations. Through empirical investigations and theoretical frameworks, Gurkov has shed light on complex phenomena shaping contemporary business landscapes.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Gurkov's dedication to academia has garnered him accolades such as the "Best Teacher" award in 2017, underscoring his commitment to excellence in pedagogy and mentorship. His prolific publication record in esteemed journals attests to the recognition and respect he commands within academic circles. Notable publications include articles in journals like the International Journal of Organizational Analysis, Post-Communist Economies, and Review of International Business and Strategy, among others.

Organizational design involves the deliberate arrangement of structures, processes, and systems to achieve business objectives effectively. It encompasses the development of organizational structures, optimization of the workforce, and alignment of resources with strategic goals. Management consulting firms often specialize in providing expertise in organizational design to enhance business efficiency and performance. Key considerations include defining roles and responsibilities, streamlining workflows, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Strategic alignment ensures that organizational goals are consistent with market dynamics and evolving business needs. Effective organizational design promotes agility, adaptability, and responsiveness to change, enabling companies to thrive in dynamic environments. It also involves continuous evaluation and improvement to sustain competitive advantage and drive long-term success.

Impact and Influence

Prof. Gurkov's work transcends the confines of academia, exerting a tangible impact on industry practices and scholarly discourse. By elucidating nuanced relationships between organizational strategies and external dynamics, his research equips practitioners and policymakers with actionable insights to navigate turbulent environments effectively. Furthermore, his mentorship and guidance have shaped the intellectual trajectories of numerous scholars, fostering a community of thought leaders poised to tackle contemporary challenges.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Gurkov continues to chart new frontiers in academia, his legacy is bound to endure through the enduring impact of his research, mentorship, and institutional leadership. With an unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, he remains a beacon of inspiration for future generations of scholars. His future contributions are poised to catalyze paradigm shifts in how we perceive and navigate the intricacies of global business ecosystems, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of academic inquiry.

Citations

  • Citations  5193
  • h-index       32
  • i10-index    94

Notable Publication

  • The evolution of corporate parenting styles of multinational corporations under anticipated trajectories of development in global industries Review of International Business and Strategy This link is disabled., 2024

Gurkov, I.Morley, M.J.

  • Shaping the attitudes of Russian managers in ethical issues – personal attributes and environmental pressure International Journal of Emerging Markets This link is disabled., 2023.

Oberhauser, M.Holtbrügge, D.Gurkov, I.

  • Using old theories to find novel solutions in organizational design of large established firms International Journal of Organizational Analysis This link is disabled., 2023.

Obel, B.Gurkov, I.

  • Digitalization and corporate parenting styles of multinational corporations International Journal of Organizational Analysis This link is disabled., 2023.

Gurkov, I.Filinov, N.

  • Strategic tensions in multinational corporations during global disruptions Management Research Review This link is disabled., 2023.

Gurkov, I.Dahms, S.Shchetinin, I.