Zakiyeh azdanshenas | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zakiyeh azdanshenas | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

University of Tehran | Iran

Dr. Zakiyeh Yazdanshenas is an accomplished scholar and academic leader specializing in International Relations, Regional Studies, and China–Middle East dynamics. She currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Tehran’s Faculty of World Studies, Department of East and South Asian Studies, where she designs and delivers graduate-level courses on politics, China’s foreign policy, and global cultural transitions. Alongside her academic post, she is a Research Fellow at the Center for Applied Research in Partnership with the Orient (Germany) and the Director of the China–MENA Relations Research Group at the Center for Scientific Research and Middle East Strategic Studies (Iran). With a blend of academic, policy, and research expertise, Dr. Yazdanshenas plays a pivotal role in fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange on geopolitical developments, regional integration, and cross-cultural engagement.

Professional Profile

ORCID

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

Education

Dr. Yazdanshenas holds a Ph.D. in Regional Studies from the University of Tehran, where her doctoral research explored the “Pivot to Asia Strategy” and its implications for the Middle East’s regional order under the guidance of distinguished professors. She earned her Master’s degree in International Relations from Shahid Beheshti University, focusing on China’s position in the international system and its strategic opportunities and challenges. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Shiraz, where she developed the foundational knowledge that would later underpin her scholarly focus on Asia–Middle East relations.

Experience

Dr. Yazdanshenas has an extensive academic and research portfolio. At the University of Tehran, she is responsible for graduate modules such as Introduction to Politics, China’s Foreign Policy, and Culture and Identity in a World in Transition. She has also served as Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Tehran’s Faculty of Law and Political Science, Allameh Tabataba’i University, and the University of Bojnord, teaching subjects including U.S. foreign policy, theories of regional studies, and international negotiations.
Her research experience spans roles as Researcher at the Islamic Parliament Research Center of Iran, where she produced policy reports on China’s foreign policy in Central and West Asia, and as a long-term Research Fellow at the Center for Scientific Research and Middle East Strategic Studies. She has actively engaged in project-based research funded by prestigious institutions, covering topics such as China’s antitrust laws, Iran–China strategic partnerships, and U.S. governmental foreign policy strategies. Beyond academia, she has contributed to the public discourse as a journalist and columnist for leading Iranian and international platforms.

Research Interests

Her research interests lie at the intersection of International Relations, Regional Studies, and comparative foreign policy, with a primary focus on China–Middle East relations, U.S.–China strategic rivalry, and geopolitical transitions in the MENA region. She is particularly engaged in examining how China’s expanding role affects regional connectivity, security dialogue, and economic integration. Other interests include identity politics in global affairs, international negotiations, and the influence of major power competition on regional orders. Her work blends theoretical analysis with policy-relevant insights, aiming to contribute both to academic scholarship and to informed policymaking.

Awards & Recognitions

While her academic career is defined more by scholarly contributions and leadership roles than formal awards, Dr. Yazdanshenas’s recognition comes through her international invitations to speak at high-profile conferences and panels. She has been a guest speaker at globally respected institutions and forums, including Princeton University, the Middle East Institute (Singapore), CARPO, and the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies. These invitations reflect the global relevance of her research and the esteem in which she is held by peers in academia and policy circles.

Publication

From Engaging to Containing China: US Attempts to Fill Power-role Gaps (2000–2018)

Authors: Zakiyeh Yazdanshenas
Journal: The International Spectator
Year: 2025

China-Iran Strategic Partnership and the Future of US Hegemony in the Persian Gulf Region

Authors: Alam Saleh, Zakiyeh Yazdanshenas
Journal: British Journal of Middle Eastern Studies
Year: 2024

Economic Diplomacy and China’s Strategy in Regulating Relations with Iran and Saudi Arabia

Authors: Zakiyeh Yazdanshenas
Journal: Strategic Studies of Public Policy
Year: 2022

International Institutions of the Middle East: The GCC, Arab League, and Arab Maghreb Union

Authors: Zakiyeh Yazdanshenas
Journal: British Journal of Middle Eastern Studies
Year: 2021

Conclusion

Dr. Zakiyeh Yazdanshenas stands out as a leading voice in analyzing and shaping the discourse on China–Middle East relations and broader geopolitical transformations. Her multidisciplinary expertise, teaching excellence, and extensive research engagements position her as both a scholar and a bridge-builder between academic research and policy application. Through her roles in academia, research institutes, and international platforms, she has contributed significantly to understanding the dynamics of regional orders and the interplay of global powers. Her ongoing work continues to influence scholarly debates, policy formulation, and cross-regional collaboration, underscoring her role as an influential figure in the evolving landscape of international relations.

Lianhong QIU | Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Lianhong QIU | Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Guangdong Provincial Party School of the CPC | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lianhong Qiu is a distinguished scholar and academic at the Guangdong Provincial Party School of the Communist Party of China (CPC). With a firm grounding in economics and governance, he has cultivated an academic profile that blends theoretical rigor with practical application. His scholarly work addresses the intersections of climate risk, industrial development, and technological transformation, particularly within the context of China’s evolving energy and policy landscape. His research reflects a commitment to exploring actionable solutions that align economic growth with environmental sustainability and energy security.

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

Education

Dr. Qiu earned his Ph.D. in Economics from the prestigious Party School of the Central Committee of the CPC, now recognized as the National Academy of Governance. His academic journey was grounded in comprehensive training in macroeconomics, industrial policy, and state governance, equipping him with the tools to dissect complex systemic interactions within China’s socio-economic framework. This background provided the foundation for his interdisciplinary approach to economic research, incorporating advanced econometric methods, risk analysis, and policy impact evaluation.

Experience

As an Associate Professor at the Guangdong Provincial Party School of the CPC, Dr. Qiu plays a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual discourse on economic transformation and governance. He is actively involved in training government officials and contributing to the academic development of future policy leaders. His teaching covers subjects related to industrial economics, climate economics, and innovation policy, while his administrative contributions support academic research and institutional collaboration. His experience extends beyond academia into policy consultancy, where he offers insights into the real-world implications of emerging economic trends.

Research Interest

Dr. Qiu’s primary research interest lies in industrial economic development, with a strong emphasis on the interface between environmental risks and technological advancement. His recent work addresses the dynamic interactions among climate physical risk (PRI), transition risk (TRI), and new energy vehicle (NEV) adoption in China. By applying time-varying parameter vector autoregression models with stochastic volatility, he introduces innovative tools for quantifying the evolving relationships between these variables. This methodological approach allows for a nuanced understanding of the cause-effect mechanisms underpinning industrial and environmental shifts, especially within the energy and transportation sectors.

He also explores asymmetric impacts and feedback loops—for instance, while physical climate risks may suppress consumer uptake of NEVs, transition-related regulatory pressures tend to encourage their adoption. Additionally, his findings highlight that while NEV growth mitigates physical climate risk, it may also exacerbate transition risk under certain conditions. These insights have significant implications for balancing industrial policy, environmental sustainability, and energy strategy.

Award

Dr. Qiu’s contributions have been recognized within academic and policy-making circles for their methodological sophistication and relevance to contemporary governance challenges. His research has been acknowledged for its impact on policy design and strategic planning in the field of green transition and industrial transformation. By offering empirical insights that align with China’s dual-carbon goals, his work is instrumental in shaping regional and national strategies for green innovation, energy resilience, and climate adaptation.

Publication

How do climate risks intersect with the rise of new energy vehicles in China?
  • Authors: Qiu, LH; Wong, XQ; (…); Song, YB

  • Journal: Economic Analysis and Policy

  • Year: 2025

The essential role of big data: Could it effectively mitigate non-performing loans?
  • Authors: Qiu, LH; Su, HD; (…); Qin, M

  • Journal: Romanian Journal of Economic Forecasting

  • Year: 2024

Are there digital tech bubbles in China?
  • Authors: Qin, M; Su, CW; (…); Lobont, OR

  • Journal: Technological and Economic Development of Economy

  • Year: 2024

Climate policy uncertainty, oil price and agricultural commodity: From quantile and time perspective
  • Authors: Wang, KH; Kan, JM; (…); Xu, SL

  • Journal: Economic Analysis and Policy

  • Year: 2023

The inevitable role of El Nino: A fresh insight into the oil market
  • Authors: Qin, M; Qiu, LH; (…); Jiao, W

  • Journal: Economic Research – Ekonomska Istraživanja

  • Year: 2020

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lianhong Qiu stands out as a dynamic scholar whose interdisciplinary expertise contributes to the evolving discourse on sustainable industrial development in China. Through innovative methodological approaches, empirical rigor, and a strong commitment to real-world impact, he addresses pressing challenges at the nexus of climate change, economic transition, and technological innovation. His work not only advances academic thought but also provides actionable guidance for policymakers navigating the complexities of green growth and energy transformation. As China and the world face intensifying climate and energy challenges, Dr. Qiu’s research continues to offer vital pathways for aligning economic prosperity with environmental stewardship.

Negusie Mengistu – social research – Editorial Board member

Mr. Negusie Mengistu - social research - Editorial Board member

Woldia University - Ethiopia 

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Negusie Mengistu embarked on his educational journey at Delgi Senior Secondary and Preparatory School, where he completed both his general secondary education and the Ethiopian University Entrance Exam Certificate. Following this foundational phase, Mengistu pursued higher education at Gondar University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Rural Development and Agricultural Extension. His academic excellence was recognized early on when he graduated with very great distinction, attaining a cumulative GPA of 3.87. This strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for his subsequent pursuits and interests in rural development and community-focused initiatives.

Professional Endeavors

Mr. Mengistu's professional journey is marked by a series of progressive roles that highlight his dedication to academic and community development. Starting as a Junior Instructor at Agarfa Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training College, he was involved in teaching and technology transformation initiatives. His career trajectory saw a significant advancement when he joined Woldia University, where he has held multiple roles. Starting as a Graduate Assistant and progressing to a Lecturer and Researcher, Mengistu has made substantial contributions to the academic community. In 2020, he was appointed the Head of the Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension at Woldia University, where he oversees teaching, research activities, and community service initiatives.

Contributions and Research Focus On social research

Mr. Mengistu’s research has predominantly focused on issues pertaining to rural development, food security, livelihood vulnerabilities, and agricultural extension, among others. His work is driven by a commitment to improving livelihoods through demand-driven research and practical interventions. Notable publications in Cogent Social Sciences, such as studies on livelihood vulnerabilities in Takusa Woreda and the role of livelihood diversification in household income, underscore his dedication to impactful research. These contributions not only add to the academic discourse but also provide practical insights and strategies for community development and poverty alleviation.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and professional career, Mengistu has been recognized for his achievements and contributions. His early accolade of graduating with very great distinction was followed by various certificates of participation and contribution in local and international conferences, reflecting his active engagement in the academic community. His role as a peer reviewer for the Journal of Agriculture and Food Security further highlights his commitment to maintaining rigorous academic standards and contributing to the scholarly community.

Impact and Influence

Mr. Mengistu’s impact extends beyond the classroom and academic publications. Through his roles at Woldia University, he has significantly influenced the academic and community development spheres. His initiatives in community services, such as promoting food and nutrition security and gender-sensitive interventions, have contributed to societal improvements in rural Ethiopia. Additionally, his efforts in fostering collaborations and sharing experiences with various universities and organizations amplify his influence, promoting knowledge exchange and capacity building across different sectors.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Negusie Mengistu is poised to continue his influential work in rural development and agricultural extension. His ongoing research and community engagement projects are likely to yield further innovative solutions to the challenges facing rural communities in Ethiopia and beyond. Mengistu's commitment to academic excellence and community service positions him to leave a lasting legacy in the fields of rural development and education, potentially inspiring future generations of researchers and practitioners to prioritize sustainable development and community-focused solutions.

Mr. Negusie Mengistu’s journey from a dedicated student to a key figure in academic and community development in Ethiopia exemplifies a profound commitment to improving lives through education, research, and direct community involvement. His future endeavors will undoubtedly continue to impact and shape the rural development landscape, making substantial contributions to both academic knowledge and practical community development outcomes.

Notable Publication

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