Xinyu Tan | Machine Learning and AI Applications | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Xinyu Tan | Machine Learning and AI Applications | Best Researcher Award

University College London | China

Ms. Xinyu Tan is an emerging architect and researcher from University College London, specializing in environmental and computational design. She holds a degree from The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, and previously studied at the Hubei Institute of Fine Arts, where she built a strong foundation in fine arts and digital design. Her research focuses on AI-driven urban design, architectural visualization, and sustainable spatial systems that integrate environmental awareness with advanced digital fabrication. With experience at HKS Asia Pacific Design Consulting in Singapore and Shanghai Rosso Cultural & Art Co., Ltd., she has contributed to international projects such as the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Stadium and urban renewal programs emphasizing community and heritage. Ms. Tan has received numerous awards including the Archisource Drawing of the Year 2021, the Zijin Award for Architectural Design, and multiple national recognitions for creativity and environmental design excellence. As a Teaching Assistant at DigitalFUTURES 2025, she supported AI-based interdisciplinary workshops. Her academic performance has earned several scholarships and distinctions, with her artworks preserved by the Hubei Institute of Fine Arts. reflecting her growing research impact in architectural innovation.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publication

Tan, X. (2025). Visual perception-informed urban design toolkit: Computational urban morphology optimisation to inform real-time perceived safety. Journal of Urban Management. (Open Access).

 

Zhen Yang | Big Data | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhen Yang | Big Data | Best Researcher Award

 Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture | China

Zhen Yang is an accomplished scholar and Associate Professor at the School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture. With a strong academic foundation and extensive professional experience, he has made significant contributions to the fields of urban and regional planning, low-carbon urban development, and sustainable city growth. His research integrates heritage conservation, ecological planning, and public service optimization to address the evolving challenges of metropolitan areas, historic cities, and emerging urban clusters in China.

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

Education

He obtained his doctoral degree in Human Geography (Urban and Regional Planning) from Peking University, where he pursued a combined master’s and doctoral program. His undergraduate education was in Urban Planning from Central South University, equipping him with a solid interdisciplinary foundation spanning geography, planning, and urban development.

Professional Experience

Zhen Yang has served as an Associate Professor at Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture since 2017, where he has been involved in teaching, research, and academic leadership. His professional journey includes key contributions to national and regional planning initiatives, such as his secondment to the Xiong’an New Area Management Committee and practical roles in Beijing Municipal Planning bodies. He has also actively participated in urban design, regional development strategy, and heritage conservation projects across several provinces, including Hebei, Shandong, Fujian, and Guangdong.

Research Interests

His research primarily focuses on urban spatial growth models, low-carbon development pathways, metropolitan transportation hubs, and the coupling mechanisms between urban form and environmental resources. He has contributed to the development of frameworks for public service facility optimization, heritage-ecology integrated planning, and sustainable community service networks. His work also extends to the assessment of sports facilities, cultural heritage conservation along historical corridors such as the Ming Great Wall and the Grand Canal, and cross-boundary pollution governance in the Greater Bay Area. With a growing focus on carbon neutrality and ecological civilization, his studies have explored spatial performance under dual-carbon goals, urban wind–heat environments, and PM2.5 concentration correlations with land development intensity.

Awards and Honors

Zhen Yang has received several prestigious awards, including the Xiong’an New Area Planning and Construction Outstanding Contribution Award and recognition for his leadership in the “Memory of Nostalgia” heritage protection initiative in Xiong’an. He has also guided students to win international and national prizes in urban sustainability and architecture competitions, including multiple awards from the World Urban Planning Education Network (WUPEN) and the “Qingrun Award” in architectural education. His academic excellence was recognized during his student years with multiple honors, including Outstanding Student Awards at Peking University.

Publications

Yang, Z., Li, J. (2023). Measurement Methods and Improvement Strategies for Urban Spatial Performance under the Carbon Neutrality Context. Wuhan: Huazhong University of Science and Technology Press.

Yang, Z., Li, J., Li, Y., et al. (2024). The Impact of Urban Spatial Environment on COVID-19: A Case Study in Beijing. Frontiers in Public Health, 11. (SSCI Q1)

Li, J., Yang, Z., Zhao, X., et al. (2024). Correlation between Urban Wind–Heat Environment and Urban Development Elements in High-Density Urban Areas: A Case Study of Central Shanghai. Buildings, 14(2), 315. (SCI Q2)

Huang, X., Yang, Z., Lin, J., et al. (2024). Spillover Effects of Children’s Outdoor Activity Space Allocation in High-Density Urban Areas: A Case Study of Beijing. Buildings, 14(9), 2872. (SCI Q2)

Jia, M., Zhang, H., Yang, Z.# (2022). Compactness or Sprawl: A Multi-Dimensional Approach to Understanding Urban Growth Patterns in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Region, China. Ecological Indicators, 138. (SCI Q1)

Conclusion

Through a blend of academic rigor, applied research, and professional practice, Zhen Yang continues to advance urban and regional planning scholarship in China. His work exemplifies the integration of sustainable development principles, cultural heritage preservation, and modern urban demands, shaping innovative models for low-carbon and resilient city growth. As a dedicated educator and researcher, he has played a pivotal role in mentoring future urban planners and contributing to the transformation of major city clusters such as the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and the Xiong’an New Area. His multi-dimensional approach bridges theory and practice, offering solutions that align with China’s national strategies on carbon neutrality, ecological civilization, and urban renewal.

Caixia Gao | Environmental Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Caixia Gao | Environmental Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Ningbo University | China

Prof. Caixia Gao is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of architecture, urban planning, and urban design, with a focus on the relationship between urban form, planning policy, and sustainable development. She is currently an Associate Professor and Executive Head of the Architecture Discipline at Ningbo University, China, where she also supervises master’s students. With a strong international profile, she has served as an academic visitor at Birmingham City University, UK, collaborating on advanced research into urban morphology, planning strategies, and the integration of historical and local architectural forms into modern policy frameworks. Prof. Gao has made significant scholarly contributions through publications in prestigious journals, books, and international conference presentations, establishing herself as an authority in urban design policy, morphological analysis, and architectural theory.

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

Education

Prof. Gao holds a Ph.D. in Architecture and Urban Planning from Nanjing University, where her doctoral research focused on the relationship between street block morphology and urban policy in Chinese cities. She also earned a Master’s degree in Architecture from Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, specializing in the architectural characteristics of historical religious buildings, particularly the Catholic churches of Ningxia. Her foundational studies were completed at Ningxia University, where she specialized in urban planning and architectural design. This rigorous academic training has given her an in-depth understanding of both the technical and cultural dimensions of architecture and planning, positioning her to bridge local traditions with global urban design challenges.

Experience

Over her academic career, Prof. Gao has combined teaching, research, and leadership in both China and abroad. She has worked extensively at Ningxia University, contributing to urban and rural planning research before moving to Ningbo University, where she currently leads the Architecture Discipline. Internationally, her visiting appointment at Birmingham City University enriched her expertise in Western planning policies and comparative studies of urban design between China and the UK. Her teaching portfolio covers a wide range of subjects, including theory and methods of planning, architectural design, urban and rural planning, landscape design, housing architecture, and graduation projects supervision. She has also actively guided student innovation projects and national-level competitions, demonstrating her strong commitment to nurturing the next generation of architects and urban planners.

Research Interests

Prof. Gao’s research is grounded in the study of urban form and policy, exploring how planning frameworks shape the vitality and sustainability of cities. Her work examines the interaction between morphology, land use, planning regulations, and urban vitality, particularly in historical and city-centre contexts. She is deeply interested in policy control methods of urban blocks that integrate historical and local architectural forms, advancing strategies for sustainable regeneration of historical areas. Additionally, she explores rural planning methods, architectural theory, and design creation, combining academic theory with practical urban design solutions. Her research also increasingly incorporates computer visualization and virtual simulation technologies, positioning her at the forefront of innovation in urban morphology and design policy research.

Awards and Recognitions

Prof. Gao has received recognition through competitive national and provincial research projects, supported by organizations such as the China Scholarship Council, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and regional social science foundations in Zhejiang and Ningxia. These projects have focused on urban design, local morphological optimization, sustainable development, and educational innovation. Her funded research underscores her role as a leading scholar shaping both theoretical and applied aspects of architectural planning and design. In addition, her active participation in international conferences such as the International Seminar on Urban Form (ISUF) and the International Forum on Urbanism (IFoU) highlights her global engagement and contributions to advancing scholarly dialogue in urban morphology.

Publication

Gao, C., & Zhou, X. (2025). Design strategies for the street spaces of fishing village based on traditional architectural typology: the case of Limin Village in Ningbo of coastal China. Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering.

Conclusion

Prof. Caixia Gao’s academic career represents a harmonious integration of research, teaching, and practice in architecture and urban planning. By focusing on the interplay between urban form, planning policy, and cultural heritage, she contributes innovative solutions to contemporary urban challenges while preserving historical identity. Her dual exposure to Chinese and international contexts allows her to provide comparative insights that are invaluable for advancing sustainable urban development. With a commitment to both scholarly excellence and student mentorship, Prof. Gao continues to push the boundaries of architectural and planning research, ensuring her work remains relevant to the evolving demands of cities and societies worldwide. Her vision for the future lies in combining urban design strategy, historical preservation, and advanced digital technologies, paving the way for innovative, culturally sensitive, and sustainable cities.

Vasco Barbosa – urban planning – Best Researcher Award 

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Prof Dr. Vasco Barbosa - urban planning - Best Researcher Award 

University Polytechnic Viana do Castelo - Portugal

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof Dr. Vasco Barbosa's academic journey is marked by a commitment to interdisciplinary studies in architecture, urban planning, and regional development. Beginning with his Diploma in Architecture from the Faculty of Architecture and Arts at Oporto Lusiada University, Portugal, Barbosa exhibited a passion for understanding the built environment's complex interactions with society and culture. His academic pursuits extended beyond national borders, including a formative year at the Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura in Valladolid, Spain, as part of the Erasmus program.

Continuing his education, Barbosa pursued specialized courses in heritage, architecture, regional development, and spatial planning, enriching his understanding of historical contexts and contemporary urban challenges. His academic odyssey culminated in a Ph.D. in Spatial-Territorial Planning from the University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain, where he delved deep into the dynamics of spatial planning and its implications for sustainable development.

Professional Endeavors

Prof Dr. Barbosa's professional journey seamlessly intertwined with his academic pursuits, shaping him into a versatile architect-urban planner with a global perspective. From his early years as an assistant professor in Portugal to his tenure as an associate professor in Colombia, Barbosa imparted knowledge on spatial planning, regional development, and urban analysis tools. His expertise found resonance in various international engagements, including visiting professorships in Italy and Brazil, where he shared insights on urban policy design and contemporary city projects.

As a consultant planner at the LaboraTe research center in Spain and later as an associate researcher at ProMetheus in Portugal, Barbosa contributed to cutting-edge research on materials, energy, and environmental sustainability. His multidisciplinary approach and collaborative ethos distinguished him as a thought leader in urban planning and development.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof Dr. Barbosa's research portfolio reflects a multifaceted exploration of spatial dynamics, social urban inequalities, and innovative planning methodologies. His expertise in space syntax, acquired through collaboration with The Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London, enabled him to unravel the intricate relationships between urban form and social behavior. Through projects like the transformation of the Alto Douro Wine region and the mitigation of forest fires, Barbosa demonstrated the practical applicability of his research in addressing real-world challenges.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof Dr. Barbosa's contributions have garnered recognition from prestigious institutions worldwide. His roles as an independent expert reviewer for the International Science Council and the European Commission underscore his standing as a trusted authority in urban planning and policy design. Membership in esteemed organizations like the Royal Institute of British Architects and the European Science Foundation further validate his impact on the global academic community.

Impact and Influence

Prof Dr. Barbosa's influence extends beyond academia, as evidenced by his involvement in international initiatives like the Planner for Climate Action program. By bridging the gap between research and practice, Barbosa champions sustainable development agendas and advocates for inclusive urban policies. His collaborative spirit and cross-cultural engagements have facilitated knowledge exchange and inspired a new generation of planners and architects worldwide.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Vasco Barbosa continues to push the boundaries of urban planning research, his legacy lies in the transformative impact of his work on communities and landscapes. With a steadfast commitment to sustainability and social equity, Barbosa's future contributions hold the promise of shaping resilient, livable cities for generations to come. Whether through academia, consultancy, or policy advocacy, Barbosa's endeavors embody a vision of urban development that balances innovation with inclusivity, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable urban future.

Notable Publication

 

Neeraj Dangol – Human Geography – International Data Evolution Achievement Award 

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Dr. Neeraj Dangol - Human Geography - International Data Evolution Achievement Award 

The University of Melbourne - Australia

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Neeraj Dangol's academic journey commenced with a Bachelor's in Architecture from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, where he displayed exceptional academic prowess with a notable grade of 78.34%. During his undergraduate years, he also had the opportunity to engage in short-term overseas training in Architecture and Art through the Tadao Ando Program, sponsored by the Osaka Foundation for International Exchange (OFIX) in Japan. This exposure broadened his perspectives on international architectural practices and design principles.

Building upon his undergraduate studies, Neeraj pursued a Master of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, USA, where he achieved an outstanding GPA of 3.91/4.00. His capstone project, "Urban poor and vulnerability to natural hazards in developing countries," underscored his commitment to addressing urban challenges and promoting resilience in marginalized communities. Additionally, he received the Asian Development Bank – Japanese Scholarship Program, recognizing his potential as a future leader in urban planning and development.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Neeraj's professional journey reflects a diverse range of experiences spanning academia, research, and practical urban planning initiatives. Notably, his tenure as a Lecturer at Kathmandu Engineering College allowed him to impart knowledge in sustainable design to aspiring architects. Subsequently, as an Urban Planner and Director at Architect's Design Associates, he spearheaded projects focused on eco-efficient water infrastructure and sustainable urban development in Nepal.

Transitioning into academia, Neeraj embarked on a PhD journey at the University of Melbourne, delving into the complexities of flood risk and adaptation in informal settlements. His doctoral research, supported by prestigious scholarships such as the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship, Australian Postgraduate Award (APA), and International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS), culminated in several impactful publications and presentations.

Contributions and Research Focus On Human Geography

Dr. Neeraj's research endeavors have been centered around enhancing community resilience, particularly in the face of natural hazards and urban challenges. His studies on flood adaptation in Kathmandu's informal settlements have contributed significantly to the discourse on disaster risk reduction and sustainable urban planning. Moreover, his collaborative projects, such as the exploration of Melbourne's African migrants in public housing, underscore his commitment to addressing social inequalities and promoting inclusive urban development.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and professional journey, Neeraj has garnered recognition for his outstanding contributions. He has received numerous awards, including a seed grant from the Economic and Social Participation Research Initiative and conference travel grants from the University of Melbourne. Moreover, his publications in esteemed journals and his participation in international conferences have earned him accolades within the academic community.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Neeraj's work transcends academic boundaries, influencing policy, practice, and community engagement. His research findings have informed urban planning strategies and disaster management policies, both locally and internationally. Through his teaching endeavors and community service initiatives, he has inspired future generations of urban planners and architects to adopt a holistic and inclusive approach to urban development.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Neeraj continues to make significant strides in the field of urban planning and resilience, his legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to social equity, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment. With a focus on addressing pressing urban challenges and advocating for marginalized communities, he envisions a future where cities are resilient, inclusive, and sustainable. Through ongoing research, teaching, and advocacy efforts, Neeraj remains dedicated to shaping a better urban future for generations to come.

Citations

  • Citations   93
  • h-index      5
  • i10-index   4

Notable Publication

 

 

Shikha Patel – Urban Analytics Award – Women Researcher

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Dr. Shikha Patel - Urban Analytics Award - Women Researcher

Qatar University - Qatar

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Shikha Patel embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor's in Architecture from Gujarat University, India, where she honed her foundational understanding of architectural principles and design. Building upon this, she pursued a Master's in Architecture (Urban Design) from Visvesvaraya Technological University, India, where she not only deepened her expertise in urban design but also showcased exemplary performance by receiving the Gold Medal from VTU, India. This early academic success laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in the field of urban planning and design.

Professional Endeavors

Following her academic pursuits, Shikha delved into the professional realm, bringing her architectural expertise to various roles. She commenced her career as a Junior Architect at SHS Designs, India, where she played a crucial role in the delivery of residential buildings, showcasing her ability to navigate the intricacies of design and construction processes. Subsequently, she transitioned into roles with increasing responsibilities, including Retail Planner at Tesco HSC, India, and Business Development Manager at 100 Krafts, India, where she demonstrated her capacity to manage projects from inception to implementation.

Contributions and Research Focus On Urban Analytics Award

Dr. Shikha's transition into academia marked a significant shift in her career trajectory, where she embarked on a path of research and teaching. Her research interests encompass urban planning, sustainable development, and environmental conservation, with a focus on leveraging her expertise in architecture and urban design to address contemporary urban challenges. Through her publications and conference presentations, such as those focusing on the impact of urban design on mental health and the relationship between land use dynamics and land surface temperatures, Shikha has contributed valuable insights to the academic discourse in her field.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Shikha's contributions to the field of urban planning and architecture have been recognized through various accolades and achievements. Notably, she received the LEED Green Associate certification, underscoring her commitment to sustainable design practices. Additionally, her publication in the Building and Environment journal on the impact of urban planning on human thermal comfort in Doha, Qatar, signifies her standing as a respected researcher in her field.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Shikha's work extends beyond the confines of academia, as evidenced by her involvement in projects with organizations such as the United Nations and Qatar University. Her participation in initiatives related to sustainable development and environmental research underscores her commitment to effecting positive change on a global scale. Through her interdisciplinary approach and collaborative endeavors, Shikha has positioned herself as a thought leader in the intersection of architecture, urban planning, and environmental sustainability.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Shikha continues to advance in her career, her legacy lies in her multifaceted contributions to the fields of architecture and urban planning. Her commitment to addressing pressing urban challenges, coupled with her dedication to research and education, positions her as a driving force in shaping sustainable and resilient urban environments. Looking ahead, Shikha's future contributions are poised to further advance the discourse on urban sustainability and influence positive change in communities worldwide.

Notable Publication

mahdieh pazhouhanfar – Landscape/Architecture – Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr mahdieh pazhouhanfar - Landscape/Architecture - Golestan universit - Iran  🏆

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc Prof Dr Mahdieh Pazhouhanfar embarked on her academic journey with a Master of Science Degree in Architecture from Yazd University, Iran, spanning from June 1994 to July 2002. She further pursued her Ph.D. in the Department of Landscape Architecture at the Faculty of Design and Architecture, University Putra Malaysia, from July 2008 to September 2011. Her dissertation focused on understanding the relationship between visual landscape preference and the restorative potential of urban landscapes. These foundational academic pursuits set the stage for her subsequent research and professional endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

Assoc Prof Dr Mahdieh's professional journey is marked by diverse roles and significant contributions within the architectural and engineering sectors. Notably, she served as an Engineer in Architecture for the Ports and Shipping Organization (PSO) in Tehran, Iran, from December 2004 to August 2006. Later, from August 2006 to August 2008, she assumed the role of Advisor and Manager at Shahid Rejaee Port, Tehran, overseeing various pivotal projects ranging from architectural investigations to the design and study of essential infrastructural elements. Additionally, her teaching experiences encompass a range of esteemed institutions, including Golestan University and various branches of Islamic Azad University, contributing to academic enrichment and fostering future talent in the field.

Contributions and Research Focus

Assoc Prof Dr Mahdieh's research focus is deeply rooted in enhancing the understanding and design of urban landscapes, parks, and green spaces. Her extensive research portfolio encompasses studies investigating the restorative potential of urban landscapes, citizens' perceptions of urban parks, and the role of architectural attributes in shaping visual preferences and experiences. Through rigorous methodologies and interdisciplinary collaborations, Mahdieh's contributions have advanced knowledge boundaries, informed design practices, and fostered sustainable and user-centric urban environments.

Accolades and Recognition

Assoc Prof Dr  Mahdieh's contributions to the field have been consistently recognized through various accolades and honors. Notably, she was awarded the Top Researcher of Golestan Construction Engineering Organization in 2012 and received the Graduate Research Fellowship from the University Putra Malaysia for her exemplary research endeavors. These accolades underscore her dedication, expertise, and significant impact within the academic and professional community.

Impact and Influence

Assoc Prof Dr Mahdieh's work has resonated within the broader academic and professional community, exerting a tangible impact on urban design, architecture, and landscape planning. Through her extensive publications, conference presentations, and professional engagements, she has facilitated knowledge dissemination, spurred dialogue, and influenced practices within the field. Her research insights, methodologies, and findings have informed policy decisions, shaped design practices, and inspired future generations of scholars, practitioners, and policymakers.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Mahdieh Pazhouhanfar continues her academic and professional journey, she is poised to further shape the landscape of urban design, architecture, and landscape planning. With a steadfast commitment to research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and user-centric design principles, she remains dedicated to advancing knowledge boundaries, addressing emerging challenges, and fostering sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban environments. Her legacy is characterized by innovation, impact, and inspiration, paving the way for a more harmonious relationship between urban landscapes and inhabitants.

Notable Publications

Citations:

A total of 603 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations      :603
  • h-index         :11
  • Documents  :12