Justice Sebuga Kotani | Government and Public Policy Analysis | Young Researcher Award

Mr. Justice Sebuga Kotani | Government and Public Policy Analysis | Young Researcher Award

University of North Carolina, Charlotte | United States

Dr. Justice Kotani holds a PhD in Geography from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, following an MSc in Sustainability from the United Nations University – Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability in Tokyo and a BSc in Development Planning from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana. His professional experience spans teaching assistance, program analysis and internships with the United Nations University (on carbon-pricing, NDCs and youth forums) and field planning roles with the Environmental Protection Agency (Ghana). His research interests centre on environmental planning, forest-landscape restoration, green infrastructure, urban informal economies and inclusive spatial governance in Sub-Saharan Africa. Dr. Kotani has an h-index of 1, with four documents and two citations to date (via Google Scholar). He has published work on professional misconduct in planning, wetland ecosystems in Ghana, and spatial planning in informal urban economies; and earned the Wayland H. Cato Jr. First-Year Doctoral Fellowship among his awards. In summary, Dr. Kotani brings a strong international sustainability education, hands-on field experience and emerging scholarly contributions focused on socio-ecological transitions and inclusive planning.

Profile : Orcid 

Featured Publications

1️⃣ Kotani, J. S., Akrofi, M. M., & Okitasari, M. (2025). Synergies and trade-offs between Ghana’s Nationally Determined Contributions and Sustainable Development Goals. Next Research, DOI: 10.1016/j.nexres.2025.100938**

2️⃣ Kotani, J. S., Takyi, S. A., Asibey, M. O., Amponsah, O., Quagraine, V. K., & Liwur, S. B. (2024). Planning in Ghana: Analysis of the various forms of professional misconduct from the perspective of professional planners. Planning Practice & Research, 1-20.

Jiapeng Xu | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jiapeng Xu | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

Northwest A&F University | China

Dr. Jiapeng Xu is an accomplished Associate Professor at the College of Economics and Management, Northwest A&F University, specializing in urbanization, industrial economy, and urban-rural sustainable development. He earned his Doctor of Management degree from Huazhong Agricultural University and has established a distinguished career in research, teaching, and policy advisory. With over 11 publications in leading journals such as Environmental Impact Assessment Review, Environment, Development and Sustainability, and Environmental Management, his scholarly impact is reflected in an h-index of 5 and over 203 citations. Dr. Xu has led more than 10 national and provincial-level projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and completed 23 teaching and research initiatives. His policy reports have been recognized at the highest levels of government—four adopted by the General Office of the State Council and three receiving direct instructions from national leaders. A Consulting Expert for World Bank Projects and a member of several academic committees, he also contributes as Deputy Secretary-General of the Agricultural Economics Virtual Teaching Office under China’s Ministry of Education. His research continues to advance sustainable economic policies and educational innovation in China’s western development region, earning him prestigious honors such as the Shaanxi Provincial Higher Education Teaching Achievement Award.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

Promoting Balanced Ecological-economic Development in Ecologically Vulnerable Regions: Spatio-temporal Variation and Driving Factors, 2025

The impact of urbanization on carbon emissions of rural households: a study based on micro-level measurement, 2024

Zhen Yang | Big Data | Best Researcher Award

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

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.

Shireen Al Suleiman | Innovation in Data Analysis | Transcontinental Data Precision Award

Mrs. Shireen Al Suleiman | Innovation in Data Analysis | Transcontinental Data Precision Award

Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM) | Spain

Author  Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Shireen Al Suleiman began her academic journey with a Degree in Civil Engineering from the Civil Engineering University in Damascus, Syria (2002–2007), later recognized in Spain as Ingeniero Técnico de Obras Públicas (2022). She further pursued a Master’s in Infrastructure Management and Planning (2019–2020) and a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering Systems at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM) (2021–2023), graduating with “Sobresaliente Cum Laude”, the highest academic distinction.

Professional Endeavors

Her career reflects a progression through national and international roles in transport engineering, infrastructure development, and project management. Early roles included working with the Ministry of Transport in Syria as a Project Manager, focusing on port infrastructure, licensing, and contract monitoring in cooperation with Turkey’s Ministry of Transportation.

In Spain, she held the position of Assistant Highway Engineer at RAUROS (TYPSA Group), contributing to road maintenance and civil consulting projects. At Vectio, she currently serves as a Consulting Transport Engineer (2025–present), and she previously held research roles at TRANSyT (UPM), first as a PhD Researcher and later as a Postdoctoral Researcher, contributing to the Trackbest-3S project on public transport satisfaction modeling and transport line planning.

Contributions and Research Focus

Her main research interests include transport systems planning, user behavior in public transit, socioeconomic factors in mobility, and service quality modeling. Her work emphasizes survey analysis, data modeling, and policy-driven transport planning aimed at improving urban bus systems.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Al Suleiman’s findings have been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences. Her cross-cultural analysis of transport quality in Oviedo (Spain) and Tangier (Morocco) provides valuable insight into urban transport dynamics. She participated in major conferences such as:

  • Transportation Engineering Forum (Madrid, 2022)

  • CIT Conference (Tenerife, 2023)

  • NECTAR Conference (Brussels, 2024)

  • ICCE2024 (Damascus, 2025)

Academic Citations and Publications

Selected publications:

  • European Transport Research Review: Key Factors for a Successful Bus System
    Link

  • Transportation Research Procedia: Urban Bus Service Quality – Oviedo Case Study
    Link

  • Case Studies on Transport Policy: Comparative Analysis: Tangier vs. Oviedo
    Link

Technical Skills

She is proficient in both general and specialized tools, including:

  • Project Management: Microsoft Office, Primavera

  • Engineering Design & GIS: AutoCAD, QGIS

  • Data Analysis: SPSS, STATA

  • Transport Modeling: SIDRA, VISUM, VISSIM

Teaching Experience

At UPM, she contributed to academic mentorship, supported transport engineering teaching modules, and facilitated interdisciplinary workshops using participatory planning methods, including Focus Group approaches in both urban and rural contexts.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Al Suleiman aims to advance sustainable mobility, accessible urban planning, and evidence-based transportation policies. Her international background, multilingualism (English, Spanish, French, Arabic), and cross-sector experience make her a strong contributor to global transport research and urban innovation initiatives. Her career continues to bridge academic research, consulting practice, and policy development in transport engineering.

Publication

How to improve public transport usage in a medium-sized city: key factors for a successful bus system


 Evaluation of Urban Bus Service Quality in a Medium-Sized City: Case Study Oviedo

Comparative Analysis of Perceived Quality of Bus Services in Different Socioeconomic and Cultural Urban Contexts: Tangier (Morocco) and Oviedo (Spain)
  • Authors: Shireen Al Suleiman, Andrés Monzón, Elena Lopez, Adriana Cortez OUCI+6transyt.upm.es+6CoLab+6

  • Journal: Case Studies on Transport Policy, Volume 19

  • Year: 2025 (March 2025, Article 101321

 

Bronwen Lichtenstein – Social Geography – Excellence in Research

Prof. Bronwen Lichtenstein - Social Geography - Excellence in Research

University of Alabama - United States

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Bronwen Lichtenstein's academic journey commenced with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, in 1991. She continued her academic pursuit, graduating with Honors in Sociology in 1992. Her early interest in societal responses to health crises became evident during her undergraduate studies, leading to her thesis exploring organizational responses to HIV/AIDS in New Zealand. This foundational research laid the groundwork for her future contributions to the field.

Lichtenstein pursued her doctoral studies at the University of Canterbury, culminating in a Ph.D. in Sociology in 1996. Her doctoral thesis, titled "The Iconography of Eve: Epidemiologic Discourse in New Zealand’s Response to HIV/AIDS," delved into the epidemiological discourse surrounding HIV/AIDS in New Zealand. This research marked the beginning of her longstanding dedication to understanding the socio-cultural dimensions of health crises.

Professional Endeavors

Following her doctoral studies, Lichtenstein embarked on a distinguished academic career spanning multiple continents. She held various academic positions at esteemed institutions, including the University of Alabama and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her roles ranged from Assistant Professor to Professor Emerita, showcasing her expertise and leadership within the academic community.

Throughout her tenure, Lichtenstein made significant contributions to teaching, research, and administration. She taught a diverse array of courses, covering topics such as sociology, criminology, health, and HIV/AIDS. Her interdisciplinary approach fostered critical thinking and engaged students in understanding complex social issues.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Lichtenstein's research agenda centered on the intersection of sociology, health, and social justice. Her pioneering work examined the socio-cultural factors influencing health outcomes, with a particular focus on HIV/AIDS, foreclosures, and aging. Through her publications, she illuminated the dynamics of stigma, race, gender, and socioeconomic status in shaping health disparities.

Her research on HIV/AIDS garnered international recognition, earning her prestigious awards such as the Career Contributions to the Sociology of HIV/AIDS Award from the American Sociological Association. Lichtenstein's scholarship advanced understanding of the social dimensions of infectious diseases, informing public health policies and interventions.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Lichtenstein's exceptional contributions to academia were recognized through numerous awards and accolades. From the Buford Peace Award for promoting social justice to the Distinguished Contribution to Scholarship Award for her impactful research, she received accolades that underscored the significance of her work.

Her dedication to teaching excellence was also acknowledged through nominations for teaching awards, highlighting her commitment to nurturing the next generation of scholars and practitioners.

Impact and Influence

Prof. Lichtenstein's influence extended beyond academia, as evidenced by her advisory roles for federal agencies and professional organizations. She served as a consultant for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health, shaping policies and initiatives addressing HIV/AIDS stigma and prevention.

Her editorial contributions to prestigious journals and her involvement in grant review panels underscored her role as a thought leader in the field of sociology and public health.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Bronwen Lichtenstein leaves behind a lasting legacy of scholarship, advocacy, and mentorship. Her interdisciplinary approach to research and her commitment to social justice continue to inspire scholars and practitioners globally. As she transitions into the next phase of her career, her future contributions are anticipated to further enrich our understanding of the complex interplay between society and health.

Citations

A total of 2862 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of her research within the academic community.

Neeraj Dangol – Human Geography – International Data Evolution Achievement Award 

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

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

Ioannis Tassopoulos – Urban Transit – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ioannis Tassopoulos - Urban Transit - Best Researcher Award 

University of Patras - Greece 

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Ioannis Tassopoulos began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Mathematics and Computers from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 1984. This foundational education provided him with a strong background in mathematical principles and computational techniques, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors in academia.

Professional Endeavors

Following his undergraduate studies, Tassopoulos ventured into the realm of Information Systems, earning a Master of Science degree from the Hellenic Open University in 2011. This advanced degree equipped him with specialized knowledge in the design and implementation of information systems, a field that would later intersect with his passion for artificial intelligence and computational intelligence.

Driven by a thirst for deeper understanding, Tassopoulos pursued a Doctorate in Computational Intelligence from the University of Patras, completing his PhD in 2016. His doctoral research delved into cutting-edge areas such as neural networks, genetic algorithms, and evolutionary strategies, demonstrating his commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in the field of AI.

Contributions and Research Focus

Throughout his academic career, Tassopoulos has made significant contributions to the field of artificial intelligence and computational intelligence. His research spans a wide range of topics, including machine learning, computer vision, and image processing. However, he is particularly renowned for his work on optimization problems, such as timetabling and scheduling, where he has developed innovative hybrid algorithms that combine the strengths of different approaches.

Tassopoulos's research focus also extends to real-world applications, addressing practical challenges in domains such as education and transportation. His work on school timetabling and urban transit routing has provided valuable insights and solutions that have the potential to improve efficiency and productivity in these areas.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Tassopoulos's contributions to the field have been recognized by his peers and the academic community. His publications in prestigious journals such as Expert Systems with Applications and Applied Soft Computing reflect the high quality and impact of his research. Moreover, his work has been cited extensively, indicating its significance and relevance to the broader scientific community.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Tassopoulos's research has not only advanced the theoretical understanding of artificial intelligence but has also had tangible impacts on practical problems. By developing novel algorithms and methodologies, he has helped organizations optimize their operations and achieve better outcomes in terms of resource utilization, cost efficiency, and service quality.

Furthermore, Tassopoulos's role as a laboratory teaching staff at the University of Patras has allowed him to impart his knowledge and expertise to the next generation of scholars and practitioners. Through his courses in mathematics, operational research, and management information systems, he has inspired and mentored countless students, nurturing their passion for technology and innovation.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Tassopoulos continues his academic journey, his legacy will endure through his groundbreaking research, mentorship, and contributions to the advancement of artificial intelligence. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world applications, he is poised to make even greater strides in solving complex problems and shaping the future of intelligent systems.

Looking ahead, Tassopoulos remains committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and exploring new frontiers in AI and computational intelligence. His dedication to excellence and his passion for innovation will undoubtedly continue to drive him towards new discoveries and achievements, leaving a lasting impact on academia and society as a whole.

Notable Publication

Grigorios Beligiannis – Urban Transit Routing Problem –  Best Researcher Award 

Prof Dr. Grigorios Beligiannis - Urban Transit Routing Problem -  Best Researcher Award 

University of Patras - Greece

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof Dr. Grigorios N. Beligiannis began his academic journey with a Diploma in Computer Engineering and Informatics from the University of Patras in 1997. This was followed by an MSc in "Computer Science and Computer Technology" in 2000 and a PhD in "Evolutionary Systems for Digital Signal Processing of Stochastic Signals" in 2002, both from the same institution. His educational background provided him with a strong foundation in computer science and engineering, paving the way for his future contributions in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Information Systems.

Professional Endeavors

Upon completing his academic pursuits, Beligiannis ventured into the realm of research and academia. He joined the Department of Food Science and Technology Enterprises, where he currently holds the rank of Professor. His expertise lies in the domain of Intelligent Information Systems, with a focus on areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Computational Intelligence, and Machine Learning. Beligiannis has made significant contributions to the field through his research, publications, and involvement in various editorial boards and program committees.

Contributions and Research Focus On Urban Transit Routing Problem

Prof Dr. Beligiannis's research interests encompass a wide range of topics within Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Information Systems. He has conducted extensive research on Artificial Neural Networks, Genetic/Evolutionary Algorithms, Decision Support Theory, and Hybrid Intelligent Algorithms. His work has found applications in diverse domains such as bio-signals, financial data analysis, agricultural modeling, and user/student modeling. Beligiannis is particularly known for his contributions to the development of Hybrid Intelligent Algorithms for solving complex optimization problems, as well as his innovative approaches to system modeling and information mining.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Beligiannis has received recognition for his scholarly achievements and contributions to the field of Artificial Intelligence. He has published numerous articles in international scientific journals and conferences, showcasing the impact of his research. Additionally, he serves as an associate editor and editorial board member for several prestigious journals in the field, further highlighting his expertise and leadership in the academic community.

Impact and Influence

Prof Dr. Beligiannis's research has had a significant impact on both academia and industry. His innovative methodologies and algorithms have paved the way for advancements in various fields, including healthcare, finance, and education. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, Beligiannis's work has contributed to the development of practical solutions for real-world problems, thereby enhancing efficiency and decision-making processes in diverse domains.

Legacy and Future Contributions 

As a prominent figure in the field of Artificial Intelligence, Grigorios N. Beligiannis has established a legacy of excellence through his research, teaching, and service to the academic community. His contributions have laid the groundwork for future advancements in Intelligent Information Systems, paving the way for continued innovation and discovery in the field. Moving forward, Beligiannis remains committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technology, with a focus on addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence.

Citations

  • Citations   1903
  • h-index       23
  • i10-index    40

Notable Publication