Yunjie Zhao | Biological Networks | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Yunjie Zhao | Biological Networks | Research Excellence Award

Central China Normal University | China

Prof. Yunjie Zhao is a distinguished biophysicist who earned his Ph.D. in Biophysics from Huazhong University of Science and Technology in 2012, where he conducted pioneering research on computational prediction of non-coding RNA structures under the mentorship of Prof. Yi Xiao, following his B.S. in Physics from the same institution. He advanced his expertise as a Postdoctoral Research Scientist at The George Washington University with Prof. Chen Zeng, contributing significantly to de novo protein design and bionetwork modeling. Since 2016, he has been a faculty member at Central China Normal University, becoming a full Professor in 2019, and has taught a wide range of courses including Machine Learning, Biophysics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, and Physics. Prof. Zhao is an active member of several professional societies, including the Chinese Physical Society and the Biophysical Society of China, and previously the American Physical Society. He serves as an editorial board member for leading journals such as Briefings in Bioinformatics, iScience, Pharmaceuticals, Life, Biomolecules, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, and Scientific Reports, and is a frequent reviewer for top-tier publications including Nature Biotechnology, Nature Reviews Genetics, Nature Machine Intelligence, Nature Communications, and Physical Review Letters. His research contributions are further reflected in multiple granted patents spanning protein–ligand binding site prediction, RNA contact prediction, plant lectin polymerization peptide inhibitors, and protein drug binding pocket prediction, underscoring his impactful contributions to computational biology and biophysics.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

"RNA-protein interaction prediction using network-guided deep learning", H Liu, Y Jian, C Zeng, Y Zhao, Communications Biology 8 (1), 2025.

"Advances and Mechanisms of RNA–Ligand Interaction Predictions", C Zhuo, C Zeng, H Liu, H Wang, Y Peng, Y Zhao Life 15 (1), 2025.

"Decoding the effects of mutation on protein interactions using machine learning", W Xu, A Li, Y Zhao, Y Peng, Biophysics Reviews 6 (1), 2025.

"Advances in Methods for Accurate Prediction of RNA–Small Molecule Binding Sites: From Isolated to AI-Integrated Strategies", J Gao, C Zhuo, C Zeng, H Liu, Y Zhao, Pharmaceuticals 18 (10), 2025.

"Ab initio HIV-1 Tat–TAR interactions study using hybrid scoring-enhanced molecular modeling across subtypes", C Zeng, H Wang, J Gao, H Liu, C Zhuo, Y Zhao, Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics 27 (27), 2025.

Venceslas Nguefoue Meli | Non-Linear Dynamics | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Venceslas Nguefoue Meli | Non-Linear Dynamics | Young Scientist Award

University of Dschang | Cameroon

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Venceslas Nguefoue Meli’s academic journey began at the University of Dschang, Cameroon, where he demonstrated exceptional aptitude in physics from the undergraduate level, graduating cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree. His curiosity and determination led him to pursue a Master’s degree in Physics under the supervision of Prof. Patrick Louodop, focusing on the intriguing problem of recidivism in dynamical systems with applications to cancer modeling. This period of academic training laid the foundation for his Ph.D. in Physics, with a specialization in complex systems, under the joint guidance of Prof. Hilaire Bertrand Fotsin and Prof. Louodop. His doctoral thesis, Dynamics and Optimal Control of Mobiles and Interacting Systems, reflected a deep commitment to understanding intricate interactions within variable topology networks.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Meli’s career is marked by a balance of academic teaching, research, and professional service. He has served as a tutorial assistant and lecturer in various institutions, including the University of Dschang, Université Polytechnique des Bamboutos Léonardo Da Vinci, and the Institut Universitaire et Stratégique de l’Estuaire. His teaching portfolio spans electronics, applied electronics in medical imaging, physics, electrostatics, and MATLAB programming, providing a strong interdisciplinary contribution to science education in Cameroon. Additionally, he has contributed to the academic development of students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Meli’s research lies at the intersection of complex systems, nonlinear dynamics, optimal control, and complex networks. His work particularly explores mobile systems in networks with variable topology, focusing on collective behaviors and their practical applications. By integrating concepts from hypergraph theory, he is extending his research scope toward emerging areas in network science. His technical expertise includes electronics circuit design, MATLAB, Python, and C programming, which enable him to approach problems from both theoretical and applied perspectives.

Impact and Influence

Through his academic presentations and conference participation, Dr. Meli has contributed to the global discourse in physics and complex systems. He has presented at internationally recognized events, including the São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Disordered Systems and the International Conference on High-Level Physics and Appropriate Solutions to Real-Life Problems. His research insights have influenced peers working on dynamics of mobile oscillators, network structures, and mutual interactions in systems, especially within the African scientific community.

Academic Citations and Scholarly Engagement

While emerging in his research career, Dr. Meli has actively engaged in scholarly exchanges through seminars, workshops, and conference presentations. His academic contributions are poised to gain further citations as his work on mobile oscillator networks and nonlinear dynamics continues to resonate with researchers in physics, applied mathematics, and systems science.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Meli is positioned to advance research in hypergraph theory and its application to complex systems, with the potential to influence both theoretical models and technological innovations. His dedication to academic mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and addressing real-world challenges ensures that his scientific contributions will continue to grow in relevance and impact.

Conclusion

Dr. Venceslas Nguefoue Meli embodies the qualities of a dedicated researcher, educator, and innovator in the field of complex systems and network science. His academic rigor, teaching excellence, and collaborative spirit have already marked him as a promising figure in the scientific community. With a trajectory that bridges theoretical insights and practical applications, he is well-positioned to make enduring contributions to physics and interdisciplinary research, aligning strongly with the ideals of awards recognizing young scientific talent.

Notable Publications

"Mobile oscillators in a mobile multi-layer network" 

  • Author: Venceslas Nguefoue , Steve J. Kongni, Thierry Njougouo, Patrick Louodop, Hubert Fotsin, Hilda A. Cerdeira
  • Journal: Chaos AIP
  • Year: 2025

"Chimera state in neural network with the PID coupling" 

  • Author: Mahamat Abdoulaye Adamdine, Venceslas Nguefoue, Thierry Njougouo, Patrick Louodop
  • Journal: Solitons and Fractals
  • Year: 2024

"Phase transitions on a multiplex of swarmalators" 

  • Author: Steve J. Kongni, Venceslas Nguefoue, Thierry Njougouo, Patrick Louodop, F. Fagundes Ferreira, Robert
    Tchitnga, Hilda A. Cerdeira
  • Journal: Physical Review E
  • Year: 2023

"Mobile oscillator network with amplification" 

  • Author: Venceslas Nguefoue, Thierry Njougouo, Steve Kongni, Patrick Louodop, Hilaire Fotsin
  • Journal: Solitons and Fractals
  • Year: 2023

"Network of mobile systems: mutual influence of oscillators and agents" 

  • Author: Venceslas Nguefoue, Thierry Njougouo, Patrick Louodop, Hilaire Fotsin, and Hilda A. Cerdeira
  • Journal: The European Physical Journal Special Topics
  • Year: 2021

 

 

 

Mark Butlin | Network Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mark Butlin | Network Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) | Australia

Author Profile

Orcid ID

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Mark Butlin's academic journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for education and law. He commenced his scholarly foundation with a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) from the University of South Australia and furthered his theological grounding with a Graduate Diploma of Theology (Education) from Lutheran Teachers College. He later specialized in dispute resolution, completing a Graduate Certificate in Mediation from Bond University. Continuing his academic growth, he earned a Master of Education and is a PhD (Confirmed Candidate) at the University of Southern Queensland, where his research centers around education law and its practical implications.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Butlin’s professional journey spans both secondary and tertiary education sectors, showcasing a progressive career in leadership, academic development, and educational law. He has held key positions such as Program Director – Secondary Education (2024–present), Associate Head (Accreditation and Reporting) (2019–2020), and Lecturer in Education Law and Assessment (2015–present) at the University of Southern Queensland. His earlier leadership roles in secondary education include Principal, Deputy Principal, and Head of Senior School at several Queensland institutions. He has also served as Chief Examiner for Legal Studies, demonstrating his continued involvement in curriculum and assessment at the state level.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON NETWORK SCIENCE

A prominent voice in the domain of education law, Dr. Butlin has authored and contributed to several academic works, notably the book "Law and Ethics for Australian Teachers" and multiple book chapters and journal articles such as "Queensland Independent School Teachers’ Understanding of Education Law Implications". His research emphasizes the critical need for legal literacy among educators, school leaders, and policy-makers. He actively engages in research dissemination through conferences and workshops, including EduTech Congress and the University of Southern Queensland Research Showcase.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Butlin’s influence extends beyond academia through his service roles and professional affiliations. He serves as Chief Examiner in the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority and sits on numerous academic and governance committees. His involvement as Treasurer and Executive Member of the Queensland Chapter of the Australia and New Zealand Education Law Association (ANZELA) underlines his commitment to shaping national discourse in education law. His workshops on legal responsibilities for teachers and ICT professionals have become instrumental in raising awareness in schools across Australia.

ACADEMIC CITES AND RECOGNITION

Dr. Butlin’s scholarship has been recognized with prestigious honors, including the Dr. Ann Shorten Doctoral Award 2025 for the best international doctorate in education law and the 2024 Award for Excellence in Doctoral Research. His contributions have earned student acclaim, as seen through the 2024 Stellar Award Commendation, reflecting his excellence in pedagogy and student support. His publications are cited across academic and policy circles, reinforcing the relevance and impact of his research.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Butlin is actively supervising multiple PhD and Master’s candidates, contributing to the next generation of education leaders and researchers. His leadership on confirmation panels, participation in appeals committees, and long-standing service to educational boards signify a lasting commitment to academic integrity, governance, and educational reform. As his research in education law matures, he is poised to continue influencing educational policy and legal awareness across Australia and beyond.

OTHER NOTABLE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Committee Engagement: He is a current member of the Student Academic Misconduct Appeals Committee, the School of Education Learning, Teaching and Student Success Committee, and the Assessment Sub-Committee at UniSQ.

  • Seminar Participation: Regularly contributes to education law seminars hosted by LegalWise and LawSense since 2012.

  • Professional Registration: Holds full registration with the Queensland College of Teachers, underlining his continued engagement with professional teaching standards.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

"Queensland Independent School Teachers’ Understanding of Education Law Implications" 

  • Author: Mark Butlin
  • Journal: Education Sciences
  • Year: 2025

"Law and Ethics for Australian Teachers" 

  • Author: Butlin, Mark A; McNamara, Noeleen; Anglin, Kerrie
  • Journal: Book
  • Year: 2021

"Introduction to Assessment and Reporting" 

  • Author: Brady, Laurie; Butlin, Mark; Maden, Nicole
  • Journal: Book
  • Year: 2018

"The Need for an Understanding of Education Law Principles by School Principals" 

  • Author: Trimmer, Karen; Dixon, Roselyn; Findlay, Yvonne S.; Butlin, Mark; Trimmer, Karen
  • Journal: Book
  • Year: 2018

Alireza Rezvanian | Complex Social Networks | Network Science Excellence Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Alireza Rezvanian | Complex Social Networks | Network Science Excellence Award

Assistant Professor at University of Science and Culture, Iran📖

Dr. Alireza Rezvanian is an accomplished academic and researcher, serving as an Assistant Professor at the University of Science and Culture (USC) in Tehran, Iran. He holds multiple editorial positions, including Associate Editor for journals such as CAAI Transactions on Intelligence Technology, Human-Centric Computing and Information Sciences, The Journal of Engineering, and Data in Brief. Dr. Rezvanian is actively involved in various professional and scientific activities, including serving as the Director of Information and Scientific Resources at USC and contributing to the IEEE Computer Society Iran Chapter.

Profile

Scopus Profile

Orcid Profile

Google Scholar Profile

Education Background🎓

Dr. Rezvanian completed his Ph.D. in Computer Engineering from Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic) in 2016, under the guidance of Dr. Mohammad Reza Meybodi. His doctoral thesis focused on “Stochastic Graphs for Social Network Analysis.” He holds a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering from Islamic Azad University of Qazvin (2010), where he specialized in improving Artificial Immune System algorithms using Learning Automata for dynamic environments. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Bu-Ali Sina University of Hamedan (2007).

Professional Experience🌱

Dr. Rezvanian has extensive teaching and research experience across multiple prestigious institutions. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor at the University of Science and Culture, Tehran. He is also an Adjunct Professor at Amirkabir University of Technology, the University of Tehran, and Tarbiat Modares University. His leadership roles include serving as the Head of the Computer Engineering Department at USC (2021-2023) and as the Director of Information and Scientific Resources at USC since 2023. He has previously held research positions at the Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM) and the Niroo Research Institute (NRI).

Research Interests🔬

Dr. Rezvanian’s research interests lie in the areas of complex networks, social network analysis, machine learning, learning automata, data mining, and soft computing. His work focuses on the application of evolutionary algorithms, image processing, and stochastic graphs for modeling social networks. His research aims to provide insights into real-world applications through innovative techniques in network analysis and machine learning.

Author Metrics

Dr. Rezvanian has a strong academic presence, with an H-index of 26 on Google Scholar (2024), 23 on Scopus, and 18 on Web of Science. He has authored and co-authored numerous research articles in renowned journals and conferences, contributing significantly to the fields of computer science, machine learning, and network analysis. His work has earned him recognition and a substantial citation count, further solidifying his impact in academia.

Publications Top Notes 📄

1. Robust Fall Detection Using Human Shape and Multi-Class Support Vector Machine

  • Authors: H. Foroughi, A. Rezvanian, A. Paziraee
  • Conference: Sixth Indian Conference on Computer Vision, Graphics & Image Processing (ICVGIP 2008)
  • Year: 2008
  • Summary: This paper focuses on a robust fall detection system utilizing human shape and a multi-class support vector machine (SVM) for classifying human body shapes and movements. The system aims to effectively detect falls, which is crucial in healthcare applications like elderly care.

2. Sampling from Complex Networks Using Distributed Learning Automata

  • Authors: A. Rezvanian, M. Rahmati, M.R. Meybodi
  • Journal: Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications
  • Volume: 396
  • Pages: 224–234
  • Year: 2014
  • Summary: This paper introduces a method for sampling complex networks using distributed learning automata (LA), a technique inspired by machine learning algorithms. The approach aims to enhance network analysis by efficiently exploring and sampling complex graph structures.

3. Minimum Positive Influence Dominating Set and Its Application in Influence Maximization: A Learning Automata Approach

  • Authors: M.M.D. Khomami, A. Rezvanian, N. Bagherpour, M.R. Meybodi
  • Journal: Applied Intelligence
  • Volume: 48 (3)
  • Pages: 570–593
  • Year: 2018
  • Summary: This paper presents a novel approach for solving the Minimum Positive Influence Dominating Set (MPIDS) problem, using learning automata for influence maximization in social networks. The proposed method addresses the optimization challenges in selecting influential nodes for spreading information effectively in network-based applications.

4. CDEPSO: A Bi-population Hybrid Approach for Dynamic Optimization Problems

  • Authors: J.K. Kordestani, A. Rezvanian, M.R. Meybodi
  • Journal: Applied Intelligence
  • Volume: 40 (4)
  • Pages: 682–694
  • Year: 2014
  • Summary: The paper introduces CDEPSO (Cognitive Dynamic Evolutionary Particle Swarm Optimization), a hybrid approach that integrates bi-population evolutionary algorithms to address dynamic optimization problems. The method aims to improve the solution quality and efficiency in environments where the optimization landscape changes over time.

5. Cellular Edge Detection: Combining Cellular Automata and Cellular Learning Automata

  • Authors: M. Hasanzadeh Mofrad, S. Sadeghi, A. Rezvanian, M.R. Meybodi
  • Journal: AEU-International Journal of Electronics and Communications
  • Volume: 69 (9)
  • Pages: 1282–1290
  • Year: 2015
  • Summary: This paper explores the combination of cellular automata (CA) and cellular learning automata (CLA) for edge detection in image processing. The approach leverages the computational power of CA and CLA to enhance the edge detection process in digital images, contributing to improvements in image recognition and processing tasks.

Conclusion

Dr. Alireza Rezvanian is highly deserving of the Network Science Excellence Award due to his pioneering contributions to the field of complex networks and social network analysis. His research not only provides innovative methods for understanding and optimizing networks but also demonstrates a strong academic leadership role in advancing network science. With his continued focus on interdisciplinary research and industry collaboration, Dr. Rezvanian is poised to make even greater contributions to the field of network science, making him a worthy recipient of this prestigious award.