Viken Kortian | Big Data Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Viken Kortian | Big Data Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Macquarie University | Australia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Viken Kortian is an accomplished academic and researcher specializing in operations management, innovation, and entrepreneurship, with extensive expertise in business process management, strategy, and big data analytics. He holds a PhD in Management from Macquarie Graduate School of Management, where his doctoral research focused on organizational agility and firm performance in Australian SMEs. His academic foundation also includes a Master of Arts, an MBA, and a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering with honors. Dr. Kortian has built a distinguished career in higher education, currently serving as Associate Professor at Macquarie University’s School of Engineering, where he played a pivotal role in designing and leading the Master of Engineering Management program, one of the university’s largest postgraduate offerings. He has also contributed to Kaplan Business School, Macquarie Graduate School of Management, and the Australian Graduate School of Management through innovative course development in data analytics, quality management, and business excellence. His research interests span business excellence, operations management, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, with several conference presentations, publications, and a US patent to his credit. Recognized with multiple Vice Chancellor’s Awards for Teaching Excellence and other honors, Dr. Kortian is a dedicated educator, researcher, and thought leader shaping engineering management education in Australia.

Profile : Orcid 

Featured Publication

“Challenges and Issues in Implementing & Operationalising Big Data Analytics Capabilities in a major Australian Railway Organisation: A Case Study”

 

Sayed Abdul Majid Gilani | Machine Learning and AI Applications | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sayed Abdul Majid Gilani | Machine Learning and AI Applications | Best Researcher Award

Birmingham City University | United Kingdom

Dr. Sayed Abdul Majid Gilani is a Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor in Business Management at Birmingham City University, United Kingdom, with extensive academic and professional experience spanning the UK, UAE, and beyond. With more than nine years of teaching, research, and leadership roles in higher education, he has established himself as a scholar-practitioner dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship, leadership, strategy, and innovation studies. His contributions extend across academic leadership, programme development, international collaborations, and impactful research in sustainable business practices, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Professional Profiles

Scopus
Orcid

Education

Dr. Gilani holds a Ph.D. in Rural Entrepreneurship and Technology from Glasgow Caledonian University, where his doctoral research focused on the drivers and barriers of broadband adoption among food and drink micro-businesses in remote-rural Scotland. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education (EdD) at the University of Glasgow, enhancing his expertise in educational innovation and leadership. His academic journey also includes an MSc in Corporate Strategy and Finance from Edinburgh Napier University, where he graduated with distinction and earned a best dissertation award, and a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics from Heriot Watt University. Additionally, he has completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Research (PGCR), a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCHE), and holds a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification, reflecting his strong foundation in pedagogy and research methodologies.

Experience

Over his career, Dr. Gilani has held prominent teaching and leadership positions at leading institutions including Birmingham City University, Canadian University Dubai, De Montfort University Dubai, Westford University College, Aston Business School, Heriot-Watt University, Glasgow Caledonian University, and the University of Glasgow. He has successfully led undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes, including serving as Programme Leader for the BA Business Management course, DBA supervisor, and PhD coordinator. His leadership experience also extends beyond academia, where he has managed international partnerships, directed faculty teams, and mentored junior academics toward achieving professional fellowships and research success. His professional roles have also included founding and managing enterprises, which provides him with a practical perspective that enriches his teaching and research in entrepreneurship and innovation.

Research Interests

Dr. Gilani’s research lies at the intersection of entrepreneurship, innovation, rural development, and digital transformation. He is particularly interested in the role of technology adoption—especially broadband and machine learning—in supporting rural businesses and micro-enterprises. His studies explore sustainable leadership, the impact of digitalisation on small business ecosystems, gender in management, and strategic innovation in both developed and developing economies. He has authored more than 60 publications, including 19 Scopus-indexed papers, book chapters, and case studies. His work has been published in high-ranking journals such as Sustainability, Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Discover Sustainability, and Industry and Higher Education. In addition, his editorial and peer-review contributions to leading journals further strengthen his standing as an engaged scholar in business and management studies.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Gilani’s scholarly contributions have earned him recognition at international conferences, where he has received best paper awards, delivered keynote addresses, and contributed to global discussions on innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. He has been formally recognised as a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA), a Chartered Manager of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), and a Certified Management and Business Educator (CMBE). These achievements highlight his commitment to academic excellence, leadership in education, and impactful research. His innovative work has also led to collaborations with industry partners, fostering university-industry linkages and providing students opportunities to transform their ideas into practice.

Publications

Kenji, I., Gilani, S.A., Tantry, A., Khan, F., Mulla, T., Askri, S., Handhi, S., & Armosh, F. (2025). An investigation into the effects of Dundee’s cultural and economic revitalization on independent food enterprises. In [Book Title] (pp. xx–xx).

Gilani, S.A.M., Gernal, L., Sergio, R., Tantry, A., Duncan, P., & Smith, A. (2025). Exploring broadband adoption amongst rural businesses: A review of the literature.  (pp. xx–xx).

Gilani, S.A.M., Hashim, M.A.M., Copacio, A., Sergio, R., Tlemsani, I., & Tantry, A. (2025). The impact of COVID-19 on the diffusion of machine learning amongst rural farms: A study of Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia and the United Arab Emirates. Sustainable Futures, 7, 101291.

Gilani, S.A.M., Tantry, A., Kenji, I., Li, X., & Gilani, A. (2025). A journey into BJJ 24/7’s success in the United Kingdom. In [Book Title] (pp. xx–xx). IGI Global.

Gilani, S.A.M., Tantry, A., Tiemo, H.T., Gilani, A., & Dos Santos, L.J.M. (2025). Grappling with societal norms in Pakistan. In [Book Title] (pp. xx–xx). IGI Global.

Joshi, A., Askri, S., Tantry, A., Gilani, S.A.M., Armosh, F., Peel, R., Tiemo, T.H., & Iqbal, N. (2025). Advancing the digital economy. In [Book Title] (pp. xx–xx). IGI Global.

Conclusion

Dr. Sayed Abdul Majid Gilani embodies the qualities of a dynamic academic leader, researcher, and educator with a global outlook. His career reflects a unique blend of scholarly depth, pedagogical excellence, and practical business experience, which together contribute to shaping the next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs. His work continues to bridge academia and industry, while his contributions to research and teaching reinforce his role as a key voice in the fields of entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable business management.

Dieter Vollath | Data collection | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Dieter Vollath | Data collection | Best Researcher Award

NanoConsulting | Germany

Prof. Dr. Dieter Vollath is a distinguished physicist and nanotechnology expert with a profound impact on the development and industrial application of nanoscale materials. As the Head of NanoConsulting in Stutensee, Germany, he has played a key role in advancing innovative nanomaterial technologies, bridging the gap between fundamental research and practical solutions. His extensive career spans leadership roles in research institutions and universities across Europe and the USA, contributing significantly to the fields of material science, nanostructured materials, and their technological implementation. Prof. Vollath has combined academic excellence with industry-focused innovation, influencing modern approaches to nanomaterial synthesis, characterization, and functionalization.

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

Education

Prof. Vollath pursued his academic journey in physics at the University of Technology in Vienna, Austria, where he developed a strong foundation in material sciences and nanotechnology. He successfully completed his diploma and doctoral studies at this institution, focusing on the theoretical and experimental aspects of materials engineering. His commitment to education extended further as he acquired the right to teach at a university level, demonstrating his expertise and scholarly contributions to the field. This academic background has served as the cornerstone for his pioneering work in nanomaterials and advanced materials engineering.

Experience

Prof. Vollath has amassed a remarkable career marked by his contributions as both a scientist and leader in the field of nanotechnology. He spent several decades at Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe in Germany, where he began as a scientist and progressed to group leader, spearheading innovative research initiatives. Additionally, he has held significant positions internationally, including a notable research tenure at the Los Alamos National Laboratory in the USA. His academic involvement includes his longstanding affiliation with the University of Technology in Graz, Austria, where he contributed to research, teaching, and mentoring emerging scientists. As the founder and head of NanoConsulting, he has provided strategic guidance and expert solutions for the development of nanomaterials in industrial and research sectors.

Research Interest

Prof. Vollath’s research is deeply rooted in nanotechnology and materials science, with a particular emphasis on nanostructured materials, their synthesis, and practical application. His work focuses on understanding the fundamental properties of nanomaterials and applying this knowledge to develop innovative solutions for various industries, including electronics, energy storage, coatings, and catalysis. He is widely recognized for advancing the field of nanoparticle synthesis, exploring their physicochemical behaviors, and integrating them into real-world technological processes. His research also includes investigating the surface chemistry and structural stability of nanomaterials, bridging the gap between theoretical insights and applied science.

Awards and Recognitions

Prof. Vollath has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions for his outstanding contributions to nanotechnology and material sciences. His pioneering work has been acknowledged internationally through invitations to collaborate with leading research laboratories and academic institutions. His achievements reflect not only his innovative research but also his dedication to fostering collaboration between academic research and industrial applications. These accolades underscore his role as a thought leader in advancing the global understanding and utilization of nanostructured materials.

Publications

Stamate, E., Culea-Florescu, A.-L., Miron, M., Piraianu, A.-I., Dumitrascu, A.G., Fulga, I., Fulga, A., Patrascanu, O.S., Iancu, D., Ciobotaru, O.C., et al. (2025). “Simulation of Agglomeration Processes Using Stochastic Processes—Case of Limited Space in a Box” in Micro.

Stamate, E., Culea-Florescu, A.-L., Miron, M., Piraianu, A.-I., Dumitrascu, A.G., Fulga, I., Fulga, A., Patrascanu, O.S., Iancu, D., Ciobotaru, O.C., et al. (2023). “Agglomeration of particles stored in a box” in Firephyschem.

Stamate, E., Culea-Florescu, A.-L., Miron, M., Piraianu, A.-I., Dumitrascu, A.G., Fulga, I., Fulga, A., Patrascanu, O.S., Iancu, D., Ciobotaru, O.C., et al. (2021). “Surface stress of gold nanoparticles revisited” in International Journal of Solids and Structures.

Stamate, E., Culea-Florescu, A.-L., Miron, M., Piraianu, A.-I., Dumitrascu, A.G., Fulga, I., Fulga, A., Patrascanu, O.S., Iancu, D., Ciobotaru, O.C., et al. (2021). “Criteria ruling particle agglomeration” in Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology.

Stamate, E., Culea-Florescu, A.-L., Miron, M., Piraianu, A.-I., Dumitrascu, A.G., Fulga, I., Fulga, A., Patrascanu, O.S., Iancu, D., Ciobotaru, O.C., et al. (2020). “Surface energy of Au nanoparticles depending on their size and shape” in Nanomaterials.

Stamate, E., Culea-Florescu, A.-L., Miron, M., Piraianu, A.-I., Dumitrascu, A.G., Fulga, I., Fulga, A., Patrascanu, O.S., Iancu, D., Ciobotaru, O.C., et al. (2020). “Agglomerates of nanoparticles” in Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology.

Stamate, E., Culea-Florescu, A.-L., Miron, M., Piraianu, A.-I., Dumitrascu, A.G., Fulga, I., Fulga, A., Patrascanu, O.S., Iancu, D., Ciobotaru, O.C., et al. (2020). “Determination of particle size distributions and transformation enthalpies from the temperature course of a phase transformation” in Journal of Nanoparticle Research.

Stamate, E., Culea-Florescu, A.-L., Miron, M., Piraianu, A.-I., Dumitrascu, A.G., Fulga, I., Fulga, A., Patrascanu, O.S., Iancu, D., Ciobotaru, O.C., et al. (2019). “Energy distribution in an ensemble of nanoparticles and its consequences” in Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Dieter Vollath stands as a visionary in the field of nanotechnology, whose contributions have shaped both academic research and industrial practice. With a career spanning multiple decades, he has seamlessly combined theoretical expertise with practical innovation, inspiring future generations of researchers and driving advancements in material sciences. Through his leadership at NanoConsulting and his affiliations with esteemed research institutions, he continues to promote the integration of nanotechnology into modern industries, creating pathways for sustainable and high-performance materials of the future.

Rami Al-Rifai | Social Impact | Excellence in Research

Assoc Prof Dr. Rami Al-Rifai | Social Impact | Excellence in Research

 United Arab Emirates University | United Arab Emirates

Publication Profile

Scopus
Orcid
Google Scholar

INTRODUCTION 🏥

DR. RAMI AL-RIFAI is an Associate Professor of Epidemiology at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), where he has contributed significantly to public health research and education. A leader in the field of epidemiology, he has been recognized globally as one of the Top 2% most highly cited scientists from Stanford University for four consecutive years (2021-2024). Dr. Rami’s remarkable achievements span multiple facets of epidemiology, including infectious disease research, public health, and healthcare policy.

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Dr. Rami’s academic journey began with his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Veterinary Medicine and Surgery from Jordan University of Science & Technology, completed in 2004 and 2007, respectively. His early training in medicine laid the foundation for his career in public health. He pursued a PhD in Public Health and Epidemiology from Tokyo Medical and Dental University, where he specialized in global health promotion. Upon completing his doctoral studies in 2014, Dr. Rami embarked on an illustrious career dedicated to advancing epidemiological research and teaching.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🧑‍⚕️

Since joining UAE University in 2017, Dr. Rami has been instrumental in shaping the institution’s research environment. His roles include Associate Professor of Epidemiology, Director of the PhD Program in Public Health, and Deputy Director of the MPH program. Dr. Rami has not only been a dedicated educator but has also held leadership roles in national health initiatives, including contributing to critical COVID-19 epidemiology efforts in the UAE.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS  ON Social Impact🧬

Dr. Rami’s research spans both infectious and non-infectious diseases, with a particular emphasis on zoonotic diseases and their public health implications. His extensive portfolio includes 102 Scopus-indexed publications, with 89 of these published since joining UAEU. He also founded the Infectious Diseases Research Epidemiology Advancement Unit (IDERA) to further enhance research in infectious disease epidemiology across the UAE and beyond.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌍

Dr. Rami’s research and leadership have not only had a substantial impact in the UAE but have also gained global recognition. With over 3,500 citations on Google Scholar and an i10-index of 45, his work continues to shape the discourse on epidemiology worldwide. Dr. Rami has played pivotal roles in national health initiatives, guiding policy decisions and providing evidence-based recommendations to healthcare authorities in the UAE. His involvement in the Mutaba’ah Study, the UAE’s largest longitudinal birth cohort study, is a testament to his commitment to public health.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS 📚

Dr. Rami has consistently been one of the top Scopus-indexed publishers at UAEU’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences, ranking in the top five throughout various years. His research productivity has been exceptional, with his articles published in high-impact journals like Lancet and BMJ Open. His overall publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on producing high-quality, impactful research that contributes to global health advancements.

HONORS & AWARDS 🏅

  • Top 2% Highly Cited Scientist by Stanford University (2021–2024)
  • Excellence-Award-Winning Scholar from UAEU College of Medicine and Health Sciences (2020)
  • Google Scholar h-index: 25, i10-index: 49, with over 3,500 citations.
  • Ranked among the top Scopus-indexed publishers at UAEU from 2017-2024.

These accolades reflect the significant global impact of Dr. Rami’s contributions to epidemiology and public health.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🏆

Dr. Rami’s legacy will be defined by his continued research excellence, innovative contributions to epidemiological studies, and his role in shaping future leaders in public health. With ongoing projects focused on infectious diseases and public health policy, Dr. Rami is poised to leave a lasting mark on the field and inspire future generations to advance global health.

FINAL NOTE 🔍

Dr. Rami Al-Rifai’s career has been marked by an unwavering dedication to advancing the field of public health and epidemiology. His global recognition and commitment to training future public health leaders further solidify his status as a key figure in healthcare research. As a consultant, educator, and researcher, Dr. Rami continues to influence public health policies and initiatives not only in the UAE but across the world.

TOP NOTES PUBLICATIONS 📚

Gestational diabetes mellitus in Europe: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence studies

Authors: MS Paulo, NM Abdo, R Bettencourt-Silva, RH Al-Rifai
Journal: Frontiers in Endocrinology 🧑‍⚕️🔬
Volume: 12
Issue: 691033
Pages: 146
Year: 2021 📅

The global burden of cancer attributable to risk factors, 2010–19: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

Authors: KB Tran, JJ Lang, K Compton, R Xu, AR Acheson, HJ Henrikson, …
Journal: The Lancet 🌍📚
Volume: 400
Issue: 10352
Pages: 563-591
Year: 2022 📅

Global burden and strength of evidence for 88 risk factors in 204 countries and 811 subnational locations, 1990–2021: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease …

Authors: M Brauer, GA Roth, AY Aravkin, P Zheng, KH Abate, YH Abate, C Abbafati, …
Journal: The Lancet 🌍📚
Volume: 403
Issue: 10440
Pages: 2162-2203
Year: 2024 📅

Association between diabetes mellitus and active tuberculosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Authors: RH Al-Rifai, F Pearson, JA Critchley, LJ Abu-Raddad
Journal: PLoS One 🧑‍⚕️💡
Volume: 12
Issue: 11
Pages: e0187967
Year: 2017 📅

Prevalence, years lived with disability, and trends in anaemia burden by severity and cause, 1990–2021: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

Authors: WM Gardner, C Razo, TA McHugh, H Hagins, VM Vilchis-Tella, …
Journal: The Lancet Haematology 🩸💉
Volume: 10
Issue: 9
Pages: e713-e734
Year: 2023 📅

Age–sex differences in the global burden of lower respiratory infections and risk factors, 1990–2019: results from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

Authors: HH Kyu, A Vongpradith, SB Sirota, A Novotney, CE Troeger, MC Doxey, …
Journal: The Lancet Infectious Diseases 🦠📚
Volume: 22
Issue: 11
Pages: 1626-1647
Year: 2022 📅

Seema Sahdev – Environmental Geography – Best Researcher Award 

Prof . Seema Sahdev - Environmental Geography - Best Researcher Award 

Kalindi College - India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof Seema Sahdev embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in Geography, obtaining her B.A. (Hons) and M.A. in Geography from S.D. College, Meerut University in 1985 and 1987 respectively. She continued her academic pursuits with a deepening focus on the subject, completing her M.Phil in Geography from the prestigious Delhi School of Economics in 1989. Her academic trajectory culminated in a Ph.D. in Geography from JMI in 2018, showcasing her enduring commitment to scholarly excellence.

Professional Endeavors

Prof Sahdev's professional journey is marked by her dedicated service as an Associate Professor at Kalindi College, DU, spanning over 22 years. Her role primarily revolves around delivering lectures to undergraduate students, where she imparts her knowledge and expertise in various domains of Geography. Throughout her tenure, she has exhibited remarkable administrative prowess, serving in numerous capacities such as Teacher-In-Charge, Member of various committees, and Convener of several crucial initiatives, illustrating her multifaceted contribution to the academic ecosystem.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof Sahdev's research interests and specializations encompass a broad spectrum within Geography, including Political Geography, Electoral Geography, Environmental Geography, and Disaster Management. Her extensive research endeavors have led to the successful completion of several noteworthy projects funded by the Research Project Allocation Committee of Kalindi College, University of Delhi. These projects range from GIS-based emergency response systems to spatial studies on health care management and flood vulnerability assessments, showcasing her interdisciplinary approach and commitment to addressing real-world challenges.

Furthermore, her scholarly contributions extend to a plethora of peer-reviewed publications and edited books, where she has disseminated her research findings to the academic community. Notable among these are her publications on urbanization effects, ecosystem services, electoral behavior, forest fire severity mapping, and land use planning, underscoring the breadth and depth of her academic pursuits.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof Sahdev's academic prowess and contributions have been duly recognized through various accolades and distinctions. Her notable achievements include securing national scholarships, receiving certificates of merit for academic excellence, and being conferred prestigious awards such as the Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Best Teacher Award. Additionally, she has been honored for her contributions to the assessment of election results in an Indo-Ecuador intellectual dialogue, further solidifying her reputation as a distinguished scholar and educator.

Impact and Influence

Prof Sahdev's impact transcends her immediate academic environment, extending to broader realms of curriculum development, professional societies, and public service. Her involvement in curriculum development for undergraduate Geography courses at the University of Delhi underscores her commitment to shaping the future of academic discourse in her field. Furthermore, her active participation in professional societies such as the National Association of Geographers India (NAGI) and Association of Geographical Studies (AGS) reflects her engagement in fostering collaborative networks and advancing geographical scholarship.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Prof Sahdev continues her academic journey, her legacy is defined by her relentless pursuit of excellence, multidimensional contributions, and unwavering commitment to scholarly inquiry. Her future contributions are poised to further enrich the academic landscape through innovative research endeavors, impactful teaching methodologies, and continued engagement in professional and public service activities. Dr. Sahdev's enduring legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring scholars and educators, shaping the contours of geographical discourse and societal impact for generations to come.

Notable Publication