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