Rym Ghariani | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rym Ghariani | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Teacher – Researcher | FSEG Sfax University | Tunisia

Dr. Rym Ghariani is a dedicated Teacher-Researcher in Economics with expertise in supply chain integration, industrial management, and digital transformation in Industry 4.0. She earned her Ph.D. in Economics (2021) from the Faculty of Economics and Management, University of Sfax, Tunisia, with a dissertation on Supply Chain Integration and Business Performance, published on HAL and by Presses Académiques Francophones. She also holds a Master’s degree in Entrepreneurship Research (2016) and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics: Money, Finance, and Banking (2014). Professionally, Dr. Ghariani served as a contractual university lecturer at the University of Gabès (2022–2024), teaching economics and management, mentoring students, and contributing to curriculum development. She actively collaborated with the MGSI (Modeling and Industrial Systems Engineering) research team, engaging in international research projects, conference presentations, and poster contributions. Her research interests focus on innovation orientation, supply chain digitalization, operational and financial performance, and Industry 4.0 technologies, and she has authored multiple peer-reviewed articles in HAL, Growing Science, and Taylor & Francis (Q1 journal), along with an educational book on descriptive statistics. Dr. Ghariani’s research skills include advanced statistical analysis, regression modeling, SPSS, Smart PLS, and applied economic modeling, enabling rigorous analysis of industrial performance. She has been recognized through participation in international conferences such as EFCT2017 and the Economics of Natural Resources conference in 2022. Dr. Ghariani’s combination of research excellence, teaching dedication, international collaboration, and publication record highlights her as a strong contributor to industrial economics research, with potential for future leadership in advancing innovation, mentorship, and global research initiatives in her field.

Featured Publications

Ghariani, R., & Younes, B. (2019). Orientation à l’innovation, intégration de la chaîne logistique et avantage concurrentiel: Cas des entreprises industrielles tunisiennes. Revue Française de Gestion Industrielle, 2.

Ghariani, R., Derbel, A., & Boujelbene, Y. (2025). Industry 4.0: Impact of new technologies on supply chain integration: Empirical evidence from Tunisia. Supply Chain Forum: An International Journal, 1–20.

Ghariani, R., Soltan, G., & Boujelbene, Y. (2025). Digitalization, supply chain integration, and financial performance: Evidence from Tunisia’s agro-industrial sector. Uncertain Supply Chain Management.

Ghariani, R. (2025). Intégration de la chaîne logistique et performance des entreprises. Presses Académiques Francophones.

Ghariani, R. (2024). Approche pédagogique de la statistique descriptive: Ouvrage pédagogique. Éditions Universitaires Européennes.

Batool Mahdavi | Agricultural Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Batool Mahdavi | Agricultural Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan | Iran

Dr. Batool Mahdavi is an accomplished Associate Professor in the Department of Genetics and Plant Production at Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Iran, specializing in agronomy, plant physiology, and crop ecology. She earned her Ph.D. in Agronomy (Crop Ecology) from Tarbiat Modares University in 2012, where she developed strong expertise in understanding crop responses to abiotic stress and strategies for sustainable agricultural productivity. With over a decade of academic and research experience, Dr. Mahdavi has actively contributed to international scientific exchange, including a research period in Sweden, and has led several national and institutional projects focusing on water stress mitigation, crop improvement, and the role of medicinal plants in sustainable farming systems. Her research interests lie in plant stress physiology, crop-environment interactions, resource-efficient agriculture, and ecological approaches to improving yield and resilience. She possesses strong research skills in experimental design, crop modeling, data analysis, and sustainable field practices, which she has applied in both academic investigations and applied agricultural solutions. Dr. Mahdavi has a growing body of publications in peer-reviewed journals indexed in Scopus, with 12 Scopus-indexed documents, 228 citations, and an h-index of 6, reflecting her contribution to advancing agricultural science and her increasing scholarly impact. She has also been an active mentor, guiding postgraduate students and young researchers, thereby extending her influence beyond her own work to the development of future scientists. Her professional recognition includes participation in international projects, conference presentations, and collaborative networks that highlight her role as both a researcher and an academic leader. Dr. Mahdavi’s awards and honors underscore her commitment to excellence in research and teaching, positioning her as a rising leader in her field. In conclusion, Dr. Batool Mahdavi demonstrates a remarkable combination of academic achievement, impactful research, international collaboration, and mentorship, making her a highly deserving candidate for recognition in agricultural science.

Featured Publications

Alasvandyari, F., & Mahdavi, B. (2024). Application of Sargassum boveanum extract under water deficit conditions to investigate its effects on the relative water content, photosynthetic pigments and mineral elements of corn (Zea mays). Russian Journal of Plant Physiology.

Alasvandyari, F., Mahdavi, B., & Rahimi, A. (2024, July 5). Alleviating the water deficit stress effect on Zea mays L. using an extract of the seaweed Sargassum boveanum. Journal of Applied Phycology.

Dehghan-Harati, Z., Mahdavi, B., & Hashemi, S.-E. (2022, September). Ion contents, physiological characteristics and growth of Carum copticum as influenced by salinity and alkalinity stresses. Biologia Futura.

Zaferanieh, M., Mahdavi, B., & Torabi, B. (2020). Effect of temperature and water potential on Alyssum homolocarpum seed germination: Quantification of the cardinal temperatures and using hydro thermal time. South African Journal of Botany.

Alasvandyari, F., Mahdavi, B., & Hosseini, S. M. (2017). Glycine betaine affects the antioxidant system and ion accumulation and reduces salinity-induced damage in safflower seedlings. Archives of Biological Sciences.

Safdar Khan | Business and Management | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Safdar Khan | Business and Management | Best Researcher Award

Senior Research Fellow | Aligarh Muslim University | India

Mr. Safdar Khan is a highly promising researcher in the fields of tourism, hospitality, social media, and consumer behavior, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Management at Aligarh Muslim University, India. His research focuses on the interrelationships between tourism, social media influence, organic food consumption, and consumer behavior, integrating theoretical frameworks such as TAM and IAM to explore evolving consumer patterns. Mr. Khan holds an M.Com (Aligarh Muslim University, 2021), M.T.A. (Aligarh Muslim University, 2017), and a B.Com (Hons.) (Aligarh Muslim University, 2015), alongside certifications in computer applications. Professionally, he has served as a Tour Executive at ARV Holidays Pvt. Ltd (2016) and as an Assistant Professor at AIHM College, Greater Noida (2019), while actively participating in national and international conferences organized by IIM Shillong, IIM Jammu, Deakin University, GD Goenka University, and OP Jindal University. His publication record includes multiple Scopus-indexed Q1 and Q2 journals, such as Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights, International Journal of Event and Festival Management, and Journal of International Food & Agribusiness Marketing, with a total of 11 Scopus citations, 4 documents, and an h-index of 2, highlighting his emerging scholarly impact. He demonstrates leadership through organizing academic events, volunteering in cultural and educational programs, and serving as a peer reviewer for reputed journals. Mr. Khan’s research skills include social media analytics, consumer behavior modeling, tourism impact assessment, and data-driven marketing insights. His awards and honors include NTA-JRF qualification (2020) and recognition in international webinars and conferences. Looking forward, he is well-positioned to expand his Q1 publications, pursue global collaborations, and contribute as a mentor and keynote speaker. Overall, Mr. Safdar Khan embodies research excellence and leadership potential in tourism, hospitality, and consumer behavior, making him a deserving candidate for recognition at both national and international levels.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  1. Khan, S. (Year). Effects of social media on consumer buying intention in tourism. OPJU Business Review. Peer-Reviewed. Documents: 1, h-index: 2

  2. Khan, S. (Year). From screen to plate: An investigation of how information by social media influencers influence food tasting intentions through the integration of IAM and TAM models. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights, Emerald, Scopus Q1. — Cited: 1, Documents: 1, h-index: 2

  3. Khan, S. (Year). Livestreaming in events: A systematic literature review and research agenda. International Journal of Event and Festival Management, Emerald, Scopus Q2. — Documents: 1, h-index: 2

  4. Khan, S. (Year). Factors affecting consumer purchase intention in digital marketing: An integration of TAM with perceived risk and trust. International Journal of Electronic Business, Inderscience, Scopus Q2. — Documents: 1, h-index: 2

  5. Khan, S. (Year). Analyzing social media’s impact on organic food purchase intention: A study of consumer behavior. Journal of International Food & Agribusiness Marketing, Taylor & Francis, Scopus Q2. — Cited: 1, Documents: 1, h-index: 2

Alaa Abdelrahman | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Alaa Abdelrahman | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Zagazig University | Egypt

Prof. Alaa Ahmed Abdelrahman is an eminent scholar in Mechanical Design Engineering with over 25 years of academic and research experience, specializing in mechanical vibrations, system dynamics, mechanical design, and production engineering. He earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Design and Production Engineering from Zagazig University, Egypt in 2013, an MSc in the same field in 2006, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Power Engineering in 1998, demonstrating a strong academic foundation in mechanical engineering. Prof. Abdelrahman has an extensive professional experience spanning teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses, supervising 6 MSc theses, 1 Ph.D. dissertation, and numerous undergraduate projects, as well as leading and participating in over 10 funded research projects, including international collaborations. His research interests focus on nonlinear dynamics of mechanical systems, viscoelastic contact modeling, mechanical vibrations, system optimization, and applied design in industrial engineering. He has demonstrated exceptional research skills, including experimental design, computational modeling, mechanical system analysis, and applied problem-solving, complemented by strong mentorship, leadership, and curriculum development abilities. Prof. Abdelrahman’s scholarly output includes 71 Scopus-indexed documents, 1,714 citations, and an h-index of 25, reflecting high-impact contributions to his field, with publications in renowned journals and conferences, including IEEE and other international peer-reviewed platforms. He has actively contributed to academic quality assurance, program development, community service initiatives, and professional committees, earning recognition as one of the Top 2% of scientists globally in 2024 according to Stanford University. His awards and honors highlight his dedication to advancing mechanical engineering research and education. In conclusion, Prof. Abdelrahman’s expertise, prolific research, leadership in mentoring and projects, and commitment to academic excellence make him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award, with strong potential for further impactful contributions and global collaborations in mechanical design and engineering innovation.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Attia, M. A., & Abdelrahman, A. A. (2018). On vibrations of functionally graded viscoelastic nanobeams with surface effects. International Journal of Engineering Science, 127, 1–32. Citations: 139

Esen, I., Abdelrhmaan, A. A., & Eltaher, M. A. (2022). Free vibration and buckling stability of FG nanobeams exposed to magnetic and thermal fields. Engineering with Computers, 38, 3482–3463. Citations: 110

Eltaher, M. A., Abdelrahman, A. A., Al-Nabawy, A., Khater, M., & Mansour, A. (2014). Vibration of nonlinear graduation of nano-Timoshenko beam considering the neutral axis position. Applied Mathematics and Computation, 235, 512–529. Citations: 99

Abdelrahman, A. A., Esen, I., Özarpa, C., & Eltaher, M. A. (2021). Dynamics of perforated nanobeams subject to moving mass using the nonlocal strain gradient theory. Applied Mathematical Modelling, 96, 215–235. Citations: 84

Esen, I., Abdelrahman, A. A., & Eltaher, M. A. (2022). Dynamics analysis of Timoshenko perforated microbeams under moving loads. Engineering with Computers, 38(3), 2413–2429. Citations: 69

Shirui Guo | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Shirui Guo | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Zhongyuan University of Technology | China

Dr. Shirui Guo is a highly accomplished researcher and academic at Zhongyuan University of Technology, China, where he has served since 2014, contributing extensively to the fields of laser cladding, additive manufacturing, advanced materials engineering, and intelligent manufacturing systems. He earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on laser-based materials processing, and since then has established himself as a leading scholar with more than 50 publications in high-impact Scopus and Web of Science indexed journals and conferences, including IEEE, Applied Optics, Journal of the Optical Society of America A, with a solid 194 Citations, 53 Documents ,7 H-index Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance, and Crystals. His research interests span laser surface modification, powder bed fusion, optical sensing, deep learning applications in manufacturing, and microstructure-property correlations of advanced coatings. Dr. Guo’s professional skills include laser processing optimization, numerical simulation, experimental design, microstructure characterization, and AI-driven data modeling for materials behavior prediction. He has actively collaborated with international research teams and has contributed significantly as a reviewer for leading journals such as Surface & Coatings Technology, Optics and Lasers in Engineering, and Progress in Additive Manufacturing, reflecting his strong reputation in the global research community. His scholarly work is well recognized, with a solid citation record and H-index demonstrating academic influence. In recognition of his contributions, he has been invited to participate in peer review panels, technical committees, and has played mentoring roles for graduate students, nurturing the next generation of researchers. His future goals include expanding Q1 journal outputs, increasing global collaborations, and contributing to international conferences and editorial boards. Overall, Dr. Shirui Guo stands out as a dedicated researcher whose innovative work has advanced both fundamental understanding and industrial applications of laser-based technologies, making him an outstanding candidate for prestigious research awards and a role model within the materials engineering community.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Guo, S., Wang, E., Du, Q., Chen, S., Guo, C., Cui, L., Li, X., Chen, Y., & Zhao, Y. (2025). YOLO-MPID: An improved YOLOv5 network for in situ detection of laser cladding melt pool states. Journal of the Optical Society of America A.

Cui, L., Shi, P., Chen, Y., Guo, S., Li, X., Cui, Y., Zheng, B., & Zhao, Y. (2025). Research on controlling secondary cutting by optimizing the texture-edge distance of micro-textured polycrystalline cubic boron nitride tools. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part E: Journal of Process Mechanical Engineering.

Cui, L., Liu, S., Li, X., Wang, M., Guo, S., Cui, Y., Chen, Y., & Zheng, B. (2025). Study of microstructure and surface morphology of AlSi10Mg alloy manufactured by laser powder bed fusion. Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance.

Chen, S., Zhou, Y., Peng, P., Guo, S., Yang, L., & Guo, C. (2025). Wear and corrosion resistance of 304SS coating using high speed laser cladding. International Journal of Precision Engineering and Manufacturing.

Guo, S., Cui, L., Song, S., Cui, Y., Li, X., Chen, Y., & Zheng, B. (2024). Influence of defocusing amount on powder flow convergence characteristics and forming microstructure of coaxial powder feeding laser cladding. Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance.

 

Saeed Esmailnia | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Saeed Esmailnia | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Science and Research University | Iran

Prof. Dr. Sa’eed Esmailnia Meidani is a distinguished researcher and academic specializing in psychometrics, educational assessment, and psychological counseling, with extensive experience teaching and providing counseling services at institutions such as Sari University, Chabahar Maritime University, Payam Noor Qa’emshahr University, and Farvardin University. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Ph.D. in Psychometrics (2021–2025, Saveh University), an MA in Educational Psychology (2007–2009, Azad University–Tehran), an MA in TOEFL (2017–2019, Chabahar Maritime University), a BA in Sociology (2003–2004, Babol University), and a BA in Educational Administration (1998–2002, Uromia University). His professional experience spans teaching, educational counseling, and psychological consultation across diverse university and clinic settings, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing education and student development. Dr. Esmailnia’s research interests focus on psychometric testing, educational measurement, and applied counseling, with expertise in statistical analysis, research methodology, and the practical integration of assessment tools in educational and clinical contexts. He has contributed to five Scopus-indexed documents, accumulating 39 citations and achieving an h-index of 4, reflecting his growing research impact. While formal awards are not listed, his academic contributions and professional accomplishments highlight his excellence in scholarship and mentorship. Dr. Esmailnia continues to engage in community-oriented initiatives and collaborative projects, showcasing leadership and dedication to advancing knowledge in educational and psychological sciences. Looking forward, he has significant potential to expand global collaborations, increase publications in Q1 journals, and participate in international conferences and editorial boards, strengthening both his research profile and global impact. Overall, Prof. Dr. Sa’eed Esmailnia Meidani is highly deserving of recognition for his contributions to research and society, combining academic rigor, practical application, and a commitment to mentoring future professionals, establishing him as a leading figure in psychometrics and educational research.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications
  1. Papaleontiou–Louca, E., Esmailnia, S., & Thoma, N. (2022). A critical review of Maslow’s theory of spirituality. Journal of Spirituality in Mental Health, 24(4), 327–343. (Citations: 75)

  2. Papaleontiou-Louca, E., Esmailnia, S., & Thoma, N. (2023). Spirituality of the developing person according to Maslow. New Ideas in Psychology, 69, 100994. (Citations: 21)

  3. Nagy-Kondor, R., & Esmailnia, S. (2022). Development of spatial ability extra tasks (SAET): Problem solving with spatial intelligence. Quality & Quantity, 56(5), 3751–3768. (Citations: 13)

  4. Nagy-Kondor, R., & Esmailnia, S. (2021). Polyhedrons vs. curved surfaces with mental cutting: Impact of spatial ability. Acta Polytechnica Hungarica, 18(6), 71–83. (Citations: 13)

  5. Beikian, A., & Esmailnia, S. (2023). Effectiveness of data-driven learning in reducing phrasal verb-related errors among intermediate English as a foreign language learners. Iranian Journal of English for Academic Purposes, 12(1), 1–18. (Citations: 3)

 

Apostolos Papalois | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Apostolos Papalois | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Department of Surgery | University of Athens School of Medicine | Greece

Prof. Apostolos E. Papalois, Ph.D., KGSJ, AMACS, is a distinguished scientist in biology and biochemistry whose academic journey began with a Biology degree from the University of Athens in 1991, followed by a Ph.D. in biology–biochemistry from the same university in collaboration with the University of Cambridge, Department of Surgery. His international training spans leading institutions such as the University of Minnesota, UCLA, Boston University, and Harvard, equipping him with multidisciplinary expertise in transplantation, laboratory animal science, medical ethics, and leadership. Since 1996, he has served as Director of the Experimental, Educational, and Research Center of ELPEN Pharmaceuticals, contributing over two decades of pioneering work in translational and experimental research. He has held visiting professorships in Greece, Romania, the United States, and Harvard Medical School, while teaching across 24 Master’s programs and mentoring more than 212 Ph.D. theses, of which 137 were completed under his supervision. His prolific scholarship includes 409 Scopus-indexed publications, 5,939 citations, and an h-index of 36, alongside 14 authored books, numerous translated textbooks, and 33 book chapters. Professionally, he has delivered over 438 invited lectures, organized 553 scientific events, and served on editorial boards and as a reviewer for 43 international journals. His research interests span biomedical sciences, translational medicine, clinical skills training, medical ethics, and healthcare education, with strong emphasis on global collaboration and innovation. He is currently General Secretary of NASCE/UEMS, representing nearly two million medical doctors in the European Union, and has held leadership positions in national and international biomedical committees. Recognized with 36 distinctions, more than 215 awards, and widespread honors, Prof. Papalois exemplifies scientific leadership and community service. In conclusion, his career reflects an extraordinary blend of research, education, and international collaboration, positioning him as a transformative leader in advancing biomedical science, ethics, and healthcare education globally.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Triantafillidis, J. K., Gikas, A., Kontrarou, G., Konstantoulakis, M., & Papalois, A. E. (2024). Use of complementary and alternative medicine by Greek patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Nutrients, 16(21), 3679. [Cited 1]

Triantafillidis, J. K., Papakontantinou, J., Antonakis, P., Konstadoulakis, M. M., & Papalois, A. E. (2024). Enteral nutrition in operated-on gastric cancer patients: An update. Nutrients, 16(11), 1639. [Cited 12]

Papalois, A. E., Roy, D. W., Caiazza, J. E., & Gikas, A. (2024). Fibrin glue and coats compromise the integrity of colonic anastomosis: An experimental trial on rats. Annals of Gastroenterology, 37(2), 123–130. [Cited 3]

Triantafillidis, J. K., Tzivras, D., & Papalois, A. E. (2024). Immunotherapy of gastric cancer: Present status and future perspectives. Annals of Gastroenterology, 37(4), 456–465. [Cited 13]

Papalois, A. E., Gikas, A., Konstantoulakis, M., & Triantafillidis, J. K. (2024). Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation has a regenerative effect in ischemic myocardium: An experimental rat model evaluated by SPECT-CT assessment. Diagnostics, 14(7), 654. [Cited 2]

Liang Wang | Philosophy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Liang Wang | Philosophy | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Xi’an Jiaotong University | China

Dr. Liang Wang is an Associate Professor at Xi’an Jiaotong University and Deputy Director of the Center for Science & Technology Innovation and Ethical Governance (STIEG), recognized for his expertise in information ethics, AI ethics, and transcultural theory. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy from Xi’an Jiaotong University in 2018, complemented by joint doctoral research at the Bertalanffy Center for the Study of Systems Science in Vienna under the guidance of Prof. Wolfgang Hofkirchner. His academic journey also includes a Master’s in Philosophy and a Bachelor’s degree in Management from Xi’an Jiaotong University, reflecting an interdisciplinary foundation. Professionally, Dr. Wang has advanced from Lecturer to Associate Professor, teaching courses on ancient Chinese philosophy, Western philosophy, and AI ethics, while also gaining international teaching experience in Vienna. His research interests focus on the ethical risks of anthropomorphized social robots, transcultural ethical design of Artificial Moral Agents, and the moral accountability of intelligent systems. Over the years, he has led and contributed to several nationally funded projects supported by the Chinese Social Science Fund and the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation. His research skills encompass ethical analysis of intelligent technologies, cross-cultural approaches to moral theory, and the integration of philosophical inquiry with emerging AI applications. He has published extensively in Scopus- and IEEE-indexed journals and proceedings, with cover articles in leading Chinese philosophy and ethics journals, and his work continues to expand internationally. Dr. Wang is an active member of professional bodies such as IEEE TechEthics, the International Center for Philosophy of Information, and the Institute for a Global Sustainable Information Society, furthering collaboration and knowledge exchange. He has received recognition for his leadership in AI ethics research and contributions to transcultural studies. In conclusion, Dr. Wang’s combination of academic excellence, international engagement, impactful research, and community involvement underscores his suitability for recognition through prestigious awards such as the Best Researcher Award.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Wang, L., & Fan, R. (2026). Confucian Philosophy Revitalized in the Digital Era: Maintaining Interpersonal Ethics with Artificial Intelligence. Book chapter.

Wang, L., & Ma, W. (2025, September 12). Ritual Practice Robots: The Importance of Incorporating “li”. IOCPh 2025.

Wang, L., Ma, Z., & Wang, S. (2025, June). The Influence of Information Revolution on Human Thinking Paradigm. In Understanding Information and Its Role as a Tool.

Wang, L., & Ma, Z. (2023, August 10). The Construction Approach of Machine Consciousness and Its Limitations. IS4SI Summit 2023.

Wang, L., & Zhang, K. (2022, March 10). How Ethical Design of Artificial Intelligence Systems Is Possible in a Transcultural Perspective. The 2021 Summit of the International Society for the Study of Information.

 

Keun Chang Kwak | Robotics and Automation | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Keun Chang Kwak | Robotics and Automation | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Chosun University | South Korea

Professor Keun-Chang Kwak is a distinguished researcher in the fields of computational intelligence, biometrics, and robotic vision systems, with extensive expertise in granular and neuro-fuzzy modeling, face and speaker recognition, knowledge extraction, behavior recognition, and auditory signal processing. He earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Chungbuk National University, Korea, in 2002, following an MS in 1998 and a BS in 1996 from the same institution. Over his career, Prof. Kwak has held several prominent positions, including Professor at Chosun University, Korea (2007–present), Visiting Professor at California State University Fullerton, USA (2014–2015), Senior Researcher at the Intelligent Robot Research Division, Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), Korea (2005–2007), and Postdoctoral Fellowships at the University of Alberta, Canada (2003–2005) and Chungbuk National University, Korea (2002–2003). He has also served as Project Manager of the AI Convergence University Project Division (2021–present) and Vice Director of the National Center of Excellence in Software at Chosun University (2018–2020), leading numerous national and international research initiatives. His research interests include computational intelligence, deep learning, speech emotion recognition, ECG-based biometrics, human-robot interaction, and knowledge extraction using fuzzy clustering. Prof. Kwak’s prolific publication record includes 138 Scopus-indexed documents, 1,667 citations, and an h-index of 21, reflecting high-impact contributions to journals such as IEEE Access, Applied Sciences, Electronics, and Sensors. He has led and mentored research teams, collaborated internationally, and contributed significantly to the robotics and AI communities. Prof. Kwak’s achievements are recognized through multiple awards, leadership roles, and professional memberships, highlighting his influence on research, education, and technology advancement. His work demonstrates exceptional innovation, academic excellence, and the potential to drive future breakthroughs in AI, robotics, and computational intelligence, making him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  1. Pedrycz, W., & Kwak, K. C. (2006). Linguistic models as a framework of user-centric system modeling. IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics-Part A: Systems and Humans, 36(2), 187–200. [Citations: 187]

  2. Kwak, K. C., & Pedrycz, W. (2005). Face recognition using a fuzzy fisherface classifier. Pattern Recognition, 38(10), 1717–1732. [Citations: 185]

  3. Kwak, K. C., & Pedrycz, W. (2007). Face recognition using an enhanced independent component analysis approach. IEEE Transactions on Neural Networks, 18(2), 530–541. [Citations: 167]

  4. Byeon, Y. H., Pan, S. B., & Kwak, K. C. (2019). Intelligent deep models based on scalograms of electrocardiogram signals for biometrics. Sensors, 19(4), 935. [Citations: 138]

  5. Kwak, K. C., & Pedrycz, W. (2005). Face recognition: A study in information fusion using fuzzy integral. Pattern Recognition Letters, 26(6), 719–733. [Citations: 112]

 

Mark Patterson | Robotics and Automation | Best Industrial Research Award

Dr. Mark Patterson | Robotics and Automation | Best Industrial Research Award

Principal Scientist | Kratos SRE | United States

Dr. Mark C.L. Patterson, Ph.D. in Materials Science from the University of Cambridge (1986), with a prior MSc. in Materials Science from Queen’s University, Canada (1983), and BSc (Hons) in Mining Engineering/Mineral Processing from Camborne School of Mines, England (1980), is a distinguished industrial research leader and Principal Scientist with Kratos SRE, specializing in advanced materials, hypersonics, propulsion, robotics, additive manufacturing, ceramics, nuclear energy, and environmental technologies. With over 40 years of experience spanning materials processing, technology development, and industrial application, he has managed more than $100M in R&D projects and successfully led programs with DARPA, NASA, NOAA, BAE Systems, and the US Department of Defense, demonstrating excellence in international collaborations, technology transfer, and commercialization of advanced solutions. His research interests include advanced ceramic matrix composites, optical and armor-grade spinel, functionally graded composites, autonomous systems, unmanned surface and aerial vehicles, hybrid manufacturing, and nuclear propulsion systems, integrating multidisciplinary approaches to address complex industrial and environmental challenges. Dr. Patterson’s research skills encompass materials synthesis, high-temperature processing, microwave and CVI techniques, nano- and microstructural characterization, additive manufacturing, robotic automation, and advanced propulsion system design. He has authored over 80 peer-reviewed publications, delivered numerous presentations at national and international conferences, and holds four patents, contributing significantly to knowledge advancement in materials and defense technologies. His awards and honors include recognition for pioneering transparent spinel production, the Army SBIR Quality Award, and leadership roles in MIL-17 Ceramic Composite Handbook development, alongside executive positions in Advanced Ceramics Research and Hydronalix. Dr. Patterson’s work is recognized in the research community with 229 Scopus citations across 26 indexed documents and an h-index of 8, reflecting the impact and relevance of his contributions to industrial research and engineering. In conclusion, Dr. Patterson’s extensive experience, pioneering research, interdisciplinary expertise, and proven leadership in industrial, defense, and environmental technologies establish him as a preeminent figure in materials science and applied engineering, demonstrating exceptional potential to drive future innovations and mentor the next generation of scientific and industrial leaders globally.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Gilde, G., Patel, P., & Patterson, M.C.L. (1999). A comparison of hot-pressing, rate-controlled sintering, and microwave sintering of magnesium aluminate spinel for optical applications. Proceedings of SPIE – The International Society for Optical Engineering, 3705, 1–9.

  2. Patterson, M.C.L. (1999). Final report: Advanced HfC-TaC composite rocket thrusters. NASA SBIR Phase I, Contract # NAS3-27272.

  3. Patterson, M.C.L., Caiazza, J.E., Roy, D., & Gilde, G. (2000). Transparent spinel revisited. Proceedings of the American Ceramic Society Conference, Cocoa Beach, 1–10.

  4. Roy, D., Patterson, M.C.L., Caiazza, J.E., & Gilde, G. (2000). Progress in the development of large transparent spinel plates. Proceedings of the 8th DoD Electromagnetic Windows Symposium, ASAFA, Colorado Springs, CO, 1–9.

  5. Patterson, M.C.L., Caiazza, J.E., Roy, D., & Gilde, G. (2000). Transparent spinel development. Proceedings of SPIE 45th International Symposium on Optical Science and Technology, San Diego, CA, 1–10.