Zitong Gao | Big data Integration | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Zitong Gao | Big data Integration | Research Excellence Award

Dalian University | China

Ms. Zitong Gao is a dedicated nursing graduate student specializing in quantitative research methodologies within the field of chronic disease management. Building on a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and currently pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing at Dalian University, she has developed a strong academic foundation in nursing theories, advanced health assessment, geriatric nursing, and evidence-based practice. Her research experience includes participating in quantitative studies, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to the development of academic manuscripts. In addition to her research background, she completed a comprehensive clinical internship at a university-affiliated hospital, where she gained hands-on experience in internal medicine, surgery, and holistic patient care through assessment, care planning, implementation, and evaluation. Skilled in statistical software such as SPSS, Mplus, Excel, and Stata, she integrates data-driven approaches into her research work. Her professional interests focus on improving patient outcomes, chronic disease self-management, gerontological nursing, and advancing nursing practice through rigorous quantitative inquiry. She has earned her nurse qualification certificate, demonstrating a solid commitment to professional standards in clinical care. With a strong blend of academic training, research competence, and clinical experience, she aims to contribute meaningfully to nursing science and patient-centered healthcare advancements.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publication

Latent transition of social participation and its relationship with frailty among older adults with chronic non-communicable diseases in China: A national longitudinal study, 2025

Skye Playsted | Educational Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Skye Playsted | Educational Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

The University of Queensland | Australia

Skye Playsted is an academic educator and researcher in TESOL and literacy education whose work integrates classroom experience, practitioner research, and reflective pedagogy. She holds qualifications including a PhD candidature, MEd, PGDipEd, BA, and Cert IV TAE, and has taught extensively across Australian universities such as the University of Queensland, University of New England, University of Wollongong, and the University of Southern Queensland. Her academic experience includes coordinating and teaching a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in English, TESOL, literacy, and curriculum studies, as well as contributing to preservice teacher development. As a research assistant, she has collaborated on projects examining education privatisation, co-teaching, and university student engagement. Her research focuses on pronunciation teaching, practitioner inquiry, LESLLA contexts, teacher professional learning, and translanguaging-informed pedagogies, with publications in leading journals and edited collections. She has served in numerous professional, volunteer, and peer-review roles and has delivered many national and international conference presentations. Recognised with multiple awards—including a Higher Education Academy Fellowship and several prestigious scholarships—she is committed to inclusive, evidence-based education. With 5 documents, 13 citations by 13 documents, and an h-index of 2, she continues to expand her scholarly contributions while supporting future educators.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Playsted, S., & Thomas, D. P. (2026). “Language teachers regaining a sense of praxis in pronunciation teaching and learning through Exploratory Practice as professional learning in Australia” in System.

Playsted, S., Fortier, V., & Beaulieu, S. (2025). “Classroom-based Research in LESLLA Contexts: Methodological Challenges and Affordances” in Proceedings of the 20th Anniversary LESLLA Symposium.

Playsted, S. (2025). “Planning with a model text to integrate speaking and listening into English language lessons” in English Australia Journal.

Playsted, S., Thomas, D. P., & Wilkinson, J. (2024). “Exploratory practice puzzling as praxis-oriented pronunciation teacher learning in Australian adult migrant EAL education” in Language Teaching Research.

Playsted, S. (2024). “Book review of Guskaroska, A., Zawadzki, Z., Levis, J., Challis, K., & Prikazchikov, M. (2024). Teaching pronunciation with confidence. Iowa State University.” in TESOL in Context.

Hongyan Jin | Bioinformatics | Young Researcher Award

Ms. Hongyan Jin | Bioinformatics | Young Researcher Award

Tarim University | China

Ms. Hongyan Jin dedicated and accomplished biologist with a strong foundation in plant molecular biology, bioinformatics, and physiological research. Holds a Master’s degree in Biology from Tarim University, with a cumulative GPA of 87.64, earning recognition as an Outstanding Graduate and recipient of multiple university-level scholarships. Academic training includes advanced courses in plant physiology, molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, and biostatistics. Experienced in genome-wide identification and analysis of gene families, particularly the SnRK2 gene family in Populus euphratica, and proficient in total RNA extraction and qRT-PCR techniques. Research focuses on plant responses to abiotic stresses, integrating computational and experimental approaches to explore stress-responsive gene functions. Published research in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, highlighting expertise in genome-wide bioinformatics analysis and molecular plant biology. Fluent in English (CET-6) and holds a Mandarin proficiency certificate, demonstrating strong communication skills. Recognized for academic excellence, diligence, and integrity, with a proactive and detail-oriented approach to research and professional responsibilities. Committed to continuous learning and tackling scientific challenges with rigor and persistence. Possesses a clear understanding of professional knowledge, strong integrative abilities, and a collaborative mindset, making significant contributions to plant biology and stress response research.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

(2025). The identification and characterization of the PeGRF gene family in Populus euphratica Oliv. heteromorphic leaves provide a theoretical basis for the functional study of PeGRF9. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

(2025). Genome-Wide Identification of the SnRK2 Gene Family and Its Response to Abiotic Stress in Populus euphratica

(2024).Comparative Genomics Analysis of the Populus Epidermal Pattern Factor (EPF) Family Revealed Their Regulatory Effects in Populus euphratica Stomatal Development

Talita Ferreira | Data Regulation | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Talita Ferreira | Data Regulation | Best Researcher Award

University of Salamanca | Spain

Talita Ferreira is an experienced pharmacist and regulatory affairs specialist with over 20 years of expertise in the pharmaceutical industry, leading strategic projects across Latin America, the USA, and Africa. She holds a Master’s degree in Entrepreneurship from the University of São Paulo and is pursuing a PhD in Business Economy at Universidad de Salamanca, with a research focus on healthcare management, organizational strategies, decision-making processes, and knowledge management. Talita has served as CEO and founder of multiple companies, including Avanti Farmacêutica, Pharma Avanti, and Legis Consulting, providing regulatory, quality, and strategic support to pharmaceutical organizations. She has collaborated with global institutions such as the World Health Organization and the International Pharmaceutical Federation, supporting vaccine manufacturing expansion, regulatory compliance, and biowaiver alignment initiatives. Her professional experience spans regulatory submissions, due diligence, GMP inspections, and regulatory intelligence, contributing to product launches, portfolio expansion, and process improvements. Talita combines her industry expertise with academic experience as an assistant professor and facilitator of business simulation games in undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Known for her effective communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, she is committed to fostering innovation, compliance, and sustainable growth within the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

da Silva Ferreira, T., Pauletti, G. M., Fernandes, E. A. F., Campos, A. F., Aceituno, A., … (2024). “Knowledge-based: facilitating access to medicines in Latin America.”

de Oliveira, L. G., de Souza Marcelino, V., & da Silva Rangel, F. C. (2018). “Perception of chemicals graduates about the adoção of teaching methodologies in a virtual learning.

Ferreira, T. S. (2019). “Technical alignment of collaborators through the management of knowledge.” University of São Paulo.

Ferreira, T. S., Pauletti, G. M., & Vázquez-Suárez, L. (2025). “How the Stakeholders’ Perception Contributes to the Pharmaceutical Strategies: A Regional Case Study in Latin America.

Ferreira, T. S., Pauletti, G. M., Fernandes, E. A., Campos, A. F., Aceituno, A., … (2023). “Knowledge-Based: Strategic Access to Medicines in Latin America.

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.

Edward Douthett | Qualitative Research | Excellence in Research

Dr. Edward Douthett | Qualitative Research | Excellence in Research

George Mason University | United States

Dr. Edward B. Douthett is an accomplished academic and accounting professional serving as an Associate Professor of Accounting at George Mason University’s School of Business. He holds a Ph.D. and M.B.A. in Accounting and Finance from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business and a B.S. in Accounting from Pennsylvania State University. Before entering academia, Dr. Douthett gained extensive industry experience at Exxon Chemicals and Exxon Company USA, where he held key roles in financial reporting, analysis, auditing, and management. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Virginia, his teaching expertise spans managerial and cost accounting, financial accounting, and performance evaluation across undergraduate, MBA, and EMBA programs. His academic contributions emphasize cost management, performance measurement, and international business environments. Dr. Douthett’s work bridges theory and practice, integrating real-world corporate insights into academic learning. He has been recognized for his excellence in teaching and leadership, particularly as the Northern Chapter Virginia Society CPA Professor of Public Accounting. Dedicated to fostering ethical decision-making and analytical skills among future accounting professionals, Dr. Douthett continues to inspire innovation in accounting education and practice.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Amoruso, A., Douthett, E., & Duchac, J. (2025). The effect of the legal environment on assurance services: evidence from international registrants in U.S. capital markets. Review of Quantitative Finance and Accounting.

Copley, P., Douthett, E. B., & Zhang, S. (2021). Venture capitalists and assurance services on initial public offerings. Journal of Business Research.

Douthett, E. B., & Copley, P. (2020). The Enrollment Cliff, Mega-Universities, COVID-19, and the Changing Landscape of U.S. Colleges. CPA Journal.

Douthett, E. B. (2020). Do Auditors Protect Shareholders Against Financial Expropriation by Corporate Insiders? The Journal of American Academy of Business.

Douthett, E. B. (2020). Do auditors provide assurance beyond the financial statements? Evidence from the market for new issues. Journal of Theoretical Accounting Research.

Amohelang Lehloa | Public Health Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Amohelang Lehloa | Public Health Analytics | Best Researcher Award

University of Cape Town | Lesotho

Ms. Amohelang Lehloa is a dedicated Registered Audiologist and Public Health professional with expertise in audiological rehabilitation, hearing technology, adult education, and evidence-based practice. She has built her career around advancing hearing healthcare, supporting community health initiatives, and contributing to impactful research in audiology and public health. Her clinical and academic journey reflects a strong commitment to patient-centered care, strategic project management, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Fluent in Sesotho and English, she integrates her skills in clinical audiology, supervision, and public health education to foster sustainable healthcare solutions and improve therapeutic outcomes for diverse populations.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Education

Ms. Lehloa holds a Master’s degree in Public Health with a specialization in Epidemiology from the University of Cape Town, complemented by an Honours degree in Audiology from the same institution. Her educational background equips her with a robust understanding of both the clinical and epidemiological aspects of healthcare, enabling her to bridge the gap between individual patient care and population health strategies. Additionally, she has pursued international education, which has broadened her perspective on global health challenges and innovations in audiological science.

Experience

Her professional experience spans clinical practice, academic teaching, research coordination, and project management. As a Clinical Audiologist at HearSense, she performs comprehensive hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, vestibular and tinnitus management, and aural rehabilitation while actively engaging in public health outreach programs. Previously, she served as Project Manager for the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA), where she managed research collaborations, regulatory compliance, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven project reporting across international institutions. She also contributed to academia as a Public Health Lecturer and Audiology Tutor at the University of Cape Town, supervising clinical students and developing curriculum content to enhance future professionals’ competencies. Furthermore, her early leadership as Head of SHAWCO Audiology in a student-led non-profit organization underscores her dedication to serving underserved communities through early hearing loss detection, intervention, and awareness campaigns.

Research Interest

Ms. Lehloa’s research interests include comorbidities affecting pregnant women living with HIV, high-frequency audiometry in children, and the integration of public health strategies into audiological care. Her work explores the intersection of communicable and non-communicable diseases in maternal health, the diagnostic value of high-frequency hearing assessments, and patient and public involvement (PPI) in research design and implementation. She has participated in international working groups such as the Forgaty-IeDEA mentorship program and has presented her findings at global platforms, including the CROI conference in Denver, Colorado, USA. Her research activities emphasize improving health outcomes through evidence-based approaches and collaborative data analysis.

Awards

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Ms. Lehloa has been recognized for her excellence and leadership. She is a recipient of the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, awarded to outstanding young scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa, and has been listed on the Faculty of Health Science Dean’s Merit List at the University of Cape Town. Additionally, her membership in the Golden Key Honour Society reflects her commitment to academic achievement, professional growth, and community service. These accolades highlight her dedication to advancing both clinical practice and public health research.

Publication

Lehloa, A.J., Kalk, E., Davies, M.-A., Nyemba, D., Mehta, U., Malaba, T., Petro, G., Boulle, A., Myer, L., Madlala, H.P. (2025). “Comorbidities in Pregnant South African Women Living with HIV and Associations with Adverse Birth Outcomes: A Prospective Cohort Study.” BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth.

Conclusion

Ms. Amohelang Lehloa exemplifies the integration of clinical expertise, public health knowledge, and academic leadership to address hearing health and broader epidemiological challenges. Her career reflects a balance of hands-on patient care, educational mentorship, research innovation, and international collaboration. With strong skills in audiological assessment, rehabilitation, hearing aid technology, strategic project management, and public health advocacy, she continues to contribute to the development of inclusive and sustainable health systems. Her work not only improves individual patient outcomes but also advances the field of audiology within a public health framework, creating meaningful impact across communities.

Ahmed Degnah – Metallurgical Engineering – Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Ahmed Degnah - Metallurgical Engineering - Best Researcher Award 

King Abdulaziz City for Science & Technology - Saudi Arabia

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Ahmed Abdulaziz Degnah began his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Umm Al-Qura University (KSA) in 2010. During his undergraduate studies, he demonstrated exceptional skills and dedication, evidenced by his GPA of 3.32/4.0 with Second Honor. His graduation project on Torsional Vibration & Fault Diagnosis showcased his early interest in engineering research and problem-solving.

Building on his undergraduate success, Ahmed pursued a Master's degree in Materials Science & Engineering from Rutgers University New Brunswick (USA), graduating in 2015 with a commendable GPA of 3.323/4.0. His master's thesis, focusing on the Effect of Solvent on Melting Gel Behavior, delved into the intricate properties of materials, laying the groundwork for his future research endeavors.

His academic pursuits culminated in a Doctorate of Philosophy in Metallurgical Engineering from The University of Utah (USA) in 2019. With an outstanding GPA of 3.96/4.0, Ahmed showcased his dedication to academic excellence. His Ph.D. dissertation, titled "Design, Synthesis, and Properties of Titanium Metal Matrix Composites Based on Ti-B-Fe System," underscored his expertise in metallurgical engineering and materials science.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Ahmed's professional journey reflects a commitment to research and academic excellence. He commenced his career as a Research Assistant at the National Center for Aeronautical Technology, KACST, from January 2011 to August 2013. This role provided him with invaluable experience in conducting research and contributing to cutting-edge projects in the field of aeronautical technology.

His academic prowess led him to serve as a Teaching Assistant at The University of Utah from August to December 2019, where he imparted knowledge in Mechanical Metallurgy. Additionally, he assumed the role of Assistant Professor at KACST, first in the National Center for Aeronautical Technology from February 2020 to April 2022, and currently in the National Center for Advanced Materials Technologies since April 2022. As an Assistant Professor, Ahmed plays a pivotal role in shaping the minds of future engineers and researchers while actively contributing to groundbreaking research projects.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Ahmed's research contributions are significant and far-reaching. His publications span various prestigious journals and conferences, demonstrating the breadth and depth of his expertise. His research interests encompass diverse areas such as additive manufacturing, alloy design, materials characterization, and composite materials.

He has made notable contributions to understanding the micro-scale deformation behavior of additively manufactured alloys, investigating the role of precipitation and solute segregation on material properties, and exploring novel powder metallurgy processing techniques for titanium alloys. Moreover, his research on high-entropy alloys, polymer matrix composites, and advanced materials for high-temperature applications showcases his versatility and innovation in materials science and engineering.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Ahmed has garnered recognition for his outstanding contributions. He has received numerous appreciation certificates, underscoring his excellence in academia and research. His dedication to teaching and mentoring is evident through the workshops and short courses he has taught, aimed at enriching the knowledge and skills of aspiring engineers and researchers.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Ahmed's work has had a profound impact on the field of materials science and engineering. His research findings have contributed to advancing the understanding of material properties and processing techniques, paving the way for innovations in various industries including aerospace, automotive, and biomedical.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Ahmed continues to pursue excellence in academia and research, his legacy is one of innovation, mentorship, and academic leadership. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and pushing the boundaries of materials science, he is poised to make significant contributions to solving complex engineering challenges and shaping the future of advanced materials technologies. Through his dedication to education, research, and professional development, Ahmed Abdulaziz Degnah is an inspiring figure whose contributions will continue to resonate within the scientific community for years to come.

 

 

Beata Pastwa Wojciechowska – Clinical psychology Award – Excellence in Research 

Prof Dr. Beata Pastwa Wojciechowska - Clinical psychology Award  - Excellence in Research 

University of Gdańsk - Poland

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof Dr. Beata Pastwa-Wojciechowska embarked on her academic journey with a fervent passion for unraveling the complexities of human behavior. From her formative years, she exhibited a keen interest in psychology, which led her to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology, a foundational step in her illustrious career. Her academic pursuits were characterized by a relentless pursuit of knowledge, coupled with a thirst for understanding the intricacies of the human mind.

Professional Endeavors

Prof Dr. Upon completing her Bachelor's degree, Beata delved deeper into her chosen field, undertaking postgraduate studies in Psychological Assistance in Sexology. This additional qualification broadened her expertise and equipped her with specialized skills essential for addressing multifaceted issues within the realm of psychology. Subsequently, she continued to enhance her professional repertoire by obtaining a specialization in Sexology, further solidifying her standing as a distinguished expert in the field.

Throughout her career, Beata's professional endeavors have been marked by unwavering dedication and a commitment to excellence. Her tenure at the University of Gdańsk, where she serves as a Full Professor and heads the Personality Psychology and Forensic Psychology Department, underscores her leadership and academic prowess. As an academician, she has not only imparted knowledge to countless students but has also spearheaded groundbreaking research initiatives that have significantly contributed to the advancement of psychological science.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof Dr. Beata's contributions to the field of psychology are multifaceted and profound. Her research interests span a wide array of topics, with a primary focus on forensic psychology, clinical psychology, and sexology. Within these domains, she has delved into the methodological, ethical, and clinical dimensions, shedding light on intricate issues such as forensic-penitentiary psychological opinions in criminal cases and personality disorders, particularly psychopathic personality disorders.

Moreover, Beata's scholarly endeavors extend beyond conventional research paradigms. As the creator and editor-in-chief of the esteemed journal Current Issues in Personality Psychology, she has provided a platform for the dissemination of cutting-edge research and facilitated intellectual discourse within the academic community. Additionally, her role as a member of the UG Research Ethics Committee underscores her commitment to upholding ethical standards in research practices.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof Dr. Beata's exemplary contributions to the field of psychology have garnered widespread recognition and acclaim. In 2012, she was honored with the title of ambassador of Polish congresses in acknowledgment of her prolific contributions to scientific discourse, both nationally and internationally. Her unwavering commitment to academic excellence and her significant impact on the field have earned her numerous accolades and accolades, solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in psychology.

Impact and Influence

Prof Dr. Beata's influence transcends the confines of academia, resonating profoundly within the global scientific community. Her seminal research findings have not only expanded the frontiers of knowledge but have also had tangible implications for real-world applications, particularly within the realms of clinical practice and forensic psychology. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, she has empowered practitioners to make informed decisions and has catalyzed positive change within the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Beata reflects on her remarkable journey, she remains steadfast in her commitment to advancing the frontiers of psychological science. Her legacy is defined not only by her groundbreaking research but also by her unwavering dedication to mentorship and knowledge dissemination. As she looks towards the future, Beata is poised to continue making significant contributions to the field, leveraging her expertise to address pressing societal issues and shape the trajectory of psychological research for generations to come.

Notable Publication