Jean Marcos da Silva – Sustainability – Best Researcher Award

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Jean Marcos da Silva – Sustainability – Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jean Marcos da silva distinguished academic and researcher in the field Sustainability. 

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

He completed his PhD in Administration in 2020 at the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) in Brazil, under the supervision of Jordana Marques Kneipp. From 2013 to 2015, he pursued a Master’s degree in Administration at the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) in Porto Velho, Brazil. His thesis, titled “Public Policies for Cost Composition and Price Formation of Brazil Nuts,” was completed in 2015 under the guidance of Mariluce Paes de Souza, with funding from CAPES, Brazil. Between 2008 and 2012, he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting Sciences from the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) in Porto Velho, Brazil, with a thesis on “Economic Control of Activities in Family Agriculture: A Study Focused on the Management Information System,” supervised by Professor Dr Rosália Maria Passos da Silva. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Pedagogical Training for Non-Licensed Bachelors from the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology Sul-Rio-Grandense (IFSUL) in Pelotas, Brazil, between 2018 and 2021. His thesis, titled “TO BE OR TO HAVE A TEACHING ATTITUDE? THAT IS THE QUESTION: A NARRATIVE OF A TEACHER-RESEARCHER,” was supervised by Janaina Schvambach. He completed his secondary education at E.E.F.M José de Anchieta (J.A) in Brazil, from 2005 to 2007.

Experience

He has pursued various supplementary courses to enhance his skills and knowledge. Between 2007 and 2008, he completed a short course in Informatics at Millenium Informatica (MI) in Brazil, totalling 85 hours. In 2007, he also undertook a short course in Quality at Work – Team Management at the School of the Legislative (INTERCÂMARAS) in Brazil, which lasted 20 hours. In 2009, he completed a short course in Oratory at Microlins (MICROLINS) in Brazil. In 2010, he engaged in university extension in Philosophy of Language: Rousseau at the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) in Porto Velho, Brazil, for 40 hours, and a short course in Interpersonal Relationships at the Euvaldo Lodi Institute (IEL/RO) in Porto Velho, Brazil, for 16 hours. In 2014, he enrolled in an English course at Minds English School (MINDS) in Brazil, totalling 240 hours, although he interrupted this course in 2016. Additionally, in 2014, he completed a short course in Topics of Bibliometrics and Experimental Data Analysis (DEA) at the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) in Porto Velho, Brazil, for 8 hours. In 2020, he took a short course in Introduction to Project Management at the National School of Public Administration (ENAP) in Brasília, Brazil, for 20 hours, and another short course in Secretariat from Certificado Cursos Online (CO) in Brazil, which lasted 60 hours.

He has been a public servant and a dedicated full-time Lecturer-Researcher at the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology Sul-Rio-Grandense (IFSUL) since 2018, with a workload of 40 hours per week. He teaches courses on Management and Entrepreneurship as well as the Professional Area for Technician in Secretariat. Since March 2019, he has also served as the Coordinator of the Integrated Environmental Management Unit at IFSul-Venâncio Aires/RS. Between September 2018 and December 2018, he worked in Management, Business, and Sustainability. Additionally, since September 2018, he has been engaged in research and development at IFSul-Venâncio Aires/RS, focusing on Local Productive Arrangements and the Sustainability of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs). Since March 2018, he has been involved in professional development in the areas of Management and Entrepreneurship.

He also served as a Substitute Professor at the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) from 2016 to 2017, with a full-time workload of 40 hours per week. In 2012, he worked as a Monitor at UNIR, with a part-time workload of 12 hours per week. His activities at UNIR included providing specialised technical services, such as analysing, reporting, and giving opinions on requests for the inclusion of courses and extension projects. From March 2017 to July 2017, he taught various accounting subjects, including Analysis of Accounts and Balances, International Accounting, Governmental Accounting Processing, and Accounting for Third Sector Organisations. He also coordinated the course in January and February 2017 and taught Planning and Business Budgeting, Final Paper, Proficiency in Accounting Fundamentals and Practices, and Financial Analysis of the Company from September 2016 to January 2017.

Since March 2011, he has been involved in research and development at CEDSA, focusing on Management and Sustainability in the Amazon, Accounting and Sustainability, Local Productive Development Arrangements, and Costs and Prices for Agroforestry Products.

Guidance and Supervisions

He has supervised and completed several undergraduate final projects. In 2017, he guided J. A. Freitas and E. R. Tomaz on their scientific work about the Public Digital Bookkeeping System (SPED) at the Federal University of Rondônia. He also supervised A. R. S. Bastos and L. O. Castro, along with M. S. Castro, on their study of scientific articles concerning the financial analysis method ‘Kanitz Thermometer’ through an integrative review methodology at the same institution. Another notable supervision was for Alexandre Rhuan Almeida Fritz, who examined the level of entrepreneurship among self-employed workers at PSV in Cacoal’s Municipal Square, RO, in 2017, at the Higher Education Institution of Cacoal. He also oversaw A. A. de Sousa, E. A. da Silva, and L. B. Costa in their study on the entrepreneurial level and motivations for remaining in informality among self-employed workers at the Camelódromo in Porto Velho, RO, in 2017, at the Federal University of Rondônia. Joscimar Ferreira Coimbra’s project on SPED, focusing on the perceptions of traditional professionals in Cacoal, RO, was another project he supervised in 2017 at the Higher Education Institution of Cacoal. Additionally, in 2013, he guided Zélia Rocha de Farias and Ílen Caroline Pires de Oliveira in their economic-financial analysis based on accounting statements, conducting a comparative study of organisations in the IT sector at the Federal University of Rondônia.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

  • “Social learning, innovation, and sustainability: The search for directions beyond a systematic literature review”

    Heliyon
    2024-04 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28431
    CONTRIBUTORS: Marcos da Silva-Jean; Jordana Marques Kneipp
  • PARA ALÉM DAS DIMENSÕES DA SUSTENTABILIDADE, OS DESAFIOS E AS PERSPECTIVAS DO EXTRATIVISMO DO PINHÃO
    Desafio Online
    2023-04-12 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.55028/don.v11i3.17790
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jean Marcos da Silva; Thiago Paulo Both; Jordana Marques Kneipp; Greice Eccel Pontelli

  • Challenges and Perspectives of Pinhão Production Considering the Dimensions of Sustainability

    2023-03-23 | Book chapter
    DOI: 10.4018/978-1-6684-6123-5.ch014
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jean Marcos da Silva; Jordana Marques Kneipp; Thiago Paulo Both; Greice Eccel Pontell

  • Public policies of guarantee for minimum prices on products of sociobiodiversity (PGPMBio): composition of the extraction cost of Amazonian chestnut in Rondônia and Acre

    Revista de Administração da UFSM
    2022-04-19 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.5902/1983465965906
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jean Marcos da Silva; Mariluce Paes-de-Souza; Theophilo Alves de Souza Filho; Fabiana Rodrigues Riva; Cleidimar da Silva Borbosa

Utku Zeybekoğlu – Global climate change – Best Researcher Award

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Utku Zeybekoğlu – Global climate change – Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Utku Zeybekoglu  distinguished academic and researcher in the field Global climate Change.

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

Utku Zeybekoğlu pursued his education and training with a focus on civil engineering and business administration. From 2016 to 2021, he completed a Philosophy of Doctorate in Civil Engineering at Ondokuz Mayis University, Graduate School in Samsun, Turkey. Prior to that, from 2015 to 2016, he earned a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from Pamukkale University, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences in Denizli, Turkey. His academic journey in civil engineering began with a Bachelor’s degree from Pamukkale University, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, which he completed from 2009 to 2014. Simultaneously, Utku expanded his academic pursuits by obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Anadolu University, Faculty of Business Administration, Department of Business Administration, in Eskisehir, Turkey, from 2015 to 2019. Additionally, from 2010 to 2015, he completed an undergraduate degree in Public Relations and Advertising at Anadolu University, Faculty of Open Education, Department of Marketing and Advertisement, also in Eskisehir, Turkey.

Experience

Utku Zeybekoğlu has built a robust career in academia, currently serving as an Assistant Professor (Ph.D.) at Sinop University Boyabat Vocational School of Higher Education in Boyabat, Sinop, Turkey, a position he has held since 2023. Prior to this role, he was a Lecturer (Ph.D.) at the same institution from 2021 to 2023. Before earning his doctorate, he worked as a Lecturer (M.Sc.) from 2017 to 2021 at Sinop University Boyabat Vocational School of Higher Education, demonstrating his commitment to education and continuous professional development.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬
  • Gunduz, F., & Zeybekoglu, U. (2024). Analysis of temperature and precipitation series of
    Hirfanli Dam Basin by Mann Kendall, Spearman’s Rho and Innovative Trend Analysis. Turkish
    Journal of Engineering. 8(1), 11-19. https://doi.org/10.31127/tuje.1177522
  • Kir, G., Ulke Keskin, A., & Zeybekoglu, U., (2023). Clustering of Black Sea Region Stations Using KMeans, Fuzzy CMeans and Silhouette Index Analysis Methods. Resilience Journal, 7(2), 325-337.
    https://dx.doi.org/10.32569/resilience.1336940
  • Selçuk Öztürk, D., Ülke Keskin, A., & Zeybekoğlu, U. (2023). Meteorological and Hydrological
    Drought Analysis of The Kızılırmak Basin. Black Sea Journal of Agriculture, 6(4), 427-438.
    https://doi.org/10.47115/bsagriculture.1307148
  • Kir, G., Ülke Keskin, A., & Zeybekoğlu, U. (2023). Clustering of precipitation in the Black Sea
    Region with by Fuzzy C-Means and Silhouette Index Analysis. Black Sea Journal of
    Engineering and Science, 6(3), 210-218. https://doi.org/10.34248/bsengineering.12967344
  • Kir, G., Ülke Keskin, A., & Zeybekoğlu, U. (2023). Clustering of Black Sea Region Meteorology
    Observation Stations Using Wind Speed Values. Ordu University Journal of Science and
    Tecnology, 13(1), 44-58. https://doi.org/10.54370/ordubtd.1275677
  • • Ülke Keskin, A., Kir, G., & Zeybekoğlu, U. (2023). Evaluation of The Homogeneity and Trends
    of Precipitation, Temperature and Wind Speed Parameters in The Black Sea Region. Journal
    of Sustainable Engineering Applications and Technological Developments, 6(1), 129–145.
    https://doi.org/10.51764/smutgd.1260628
  • Zeybekoglu, U. (2023). Temperature series analysis of the Hirfanli Dam basin with the MannKendall and Sequential Mann-Kendall Tests. Turkish Journal of Engineering. 7(4), 306-313.
    https://doi.org/10.31127/tuje.1145716
  • Zeybekoglu, U., & Ulke Keskin, A. (2022). Homogeneity Analysis of Turkish Rainfall Intensity
    Series. Journal of Sustainable Engineering Practices and Technological Developments, 5(2),
    123-137. https://doi.org/10.51764/smutgd.1097444
  • • Aktürk, G., Zeybekoglu, U., & Yildiz, O. (2022). Drought Investigation Using SPI and SPEI
    Methods: A Case Study in Kırıkkale. International Journal of Engineering Research and
    Development, 14(2), 762-776. https://doi.org/10.29137/umagd.1100886

Dieuemerci Masumbuko Roosevelt – Agriculture -Best Researcher Award

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Dieuemerci Masumbuko Roosevelt – Agriculture -Best Researcher Award

Mr. Dieuemerci Masumbuko Roosevelt distinguished academic and researcher in the Agriculture.

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Agronomy with a specialization in Phytopathology and Crop Protection at Eduardo Mondlane University in Mozambique, starting from 2024. Prior to this, he completed a Master of Specialization in Integrated Production and Preservation of Natural Resources in Urban and Peri-urban Environments with Distinction at Gembloux Agro-BioTech/University of Liege, Belgium, in 2022. His educational journey includes English language training at Makerere University’s Centre for Language and Communication Services in 2019. He holds a Diploma in Agricultural Engineering (BAC+5) with Distinction from Université Évangélique en Afrique/UEA-Bukavu, where he was recognized as the Best Laureate of the Faculty of Agronomic Sciences and Environment, Department of Plant Production, in 2017. Earlier, he graduated with honors in General Agronomy (BAC+3) from the same institution in 2015, also earning the distinction of Best Laureate of the Faculty of Agronomic Sciences and Environment. His educational achievements began with the completion of his State Diploma in Agricultural Techniques at Institut Bwindi/Bukavu in 2012, where he was honored as the Best Laureate of the province of South Kivu in the State exams in Agricultural Techniques. His academic journey commenced with the attainment of his Primary School Leaving Certificate in 2006, where he was recognized as the best pupil.

Research Experiences

He has accumulated a diverse range of professional experiences that underscore his dedication to teaching, research, and consultancy roles. Since 2017, he has served as a Teaching and Research Assistant at the Institut Supérieur de Développement Rural (ISDR-Bukavu), balancing his responsibilities in academia and practical research. His consultancy work includes contributing to the elaboration of the Provincial Agricultural Investment Plan (PPIA) as a Consultant at IFPRI in March 2023 and participating in a strategy validation workshop for the “Ruzizi River Basin Landscape Restoration and Water Resources Management for Climate Change Resilient Development Programme” organized by the World Resources Institute (WRI) in September 2022. He conducted significant banana research at the Laboratory of Urban and Integrated Plant Pathology/Gembloux Agro-BioTech in 2022, evaluating biological control agents against Fusarium f.sp. oxysporum cubense in banana. His involvement in training and survey implementation using the World Bank’s “SURVEY SOLUTION” platform in South Kivu in August 2021 showcases his proficiency in quantitative and qualitative data collection. Additional experiences include consultancy roles, workshops, seminars, and internships focused on biodiversity conservation, agricultural practices, and watershed management, reflecting his commitment to enhancing agricultural and environmental practices in the Democratic Republic of Congo and beyond.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬
  • Optimization of plant density and fertilizer application to improve biofortified common
    bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) yield on Nitisols of South-Kivu, Eastern D.R. Congo
  • May 2020: An article in “International Journal of Innovative Research and Development”
    “Smallholder Farmers’ Perceptions of Climate Change and Adaptation Options for Sustainable
    Agriculture: Evidence from Itombwe Massif, Eastern DR Congo”
  • June 2020: An article in “International Journal of Innovative Research and Development”
    “Farmers’ Perceptions towards Climate Change, and Meteorological Data in Kahuzi-Biega
    National Park surroundings, Eastern DR Congo”
  • . May 2019: in “AfriqueScience” “Status of Banana Black Spot in Eastern DR Congo”.
    4.5. October 2019: In ” Revue Marocaine de Protection des Plantes, ” Résistance à
    l’helminthosporiose ( Helminthosporium maydis Y. Nisik . Et C. Miyake) de maïs PVA SYN
    et SAM 4VITA sous conditions contrôlées “.

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Erdiwansyah – Science and Technology – Best Researcher Award

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Erdiwansyah – Science and Technology – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Erdiwansyah  distinguished academic and researcher in the field Science and Technology. He has been involved in significant research projects, including the production of bio-coke from palm oil solid waste as a high-calorie and environmentally friendly fuel, a project spanning from 2022 to 2024. Additionally, he worked on developing biomass stove innovations using agricultural waste to fry chips in the Saree community of Aceh Besar.

 

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

He holds a PhD in Renewable Energy and Technology from Universitas Syiah Kuala in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. He also earned a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the same institution. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree from the Faculty of Engineering at Universitas Serambi Mekkah, also located in Banda Aceh, Indonesia.

Research Area

Renewable Energy, Biomass, Energy Conversions, Combustion, Biodiesel, Technology Renewable Energy.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Mi Tian- Technological Networks- Best Researcher Award

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Mi Tian- Technological Networks- Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mi Tian holds the position of Senior Lecturer and Director of Postgraduate Research in the
Department of Engineering at the University of Exeter, where her focus lies on hydrogen energy,
specifically in the field of solid-state hydrogen storage and transportation. Since her affiliation with the
UoE in 2020, Dr. Tian has been instrumental in securing upwards of £2.7 million in research funding,
with nearly £1 million attributed to her direct initiatives as PI and an additional £1.7 million as Co-I.
Her academic contributions encompass 36 publications in reputable journals, an H-index of 20, two
patents, and a notable contribution to a sector-relevant book. Her recognition in the Top 50 Women in
Engineering in 2020 and subsequent honour as one of the EPSRC Women in Engineering Ambassadors
in 2023 not only underscore her personal achievements but also reflect her commitment to promoting
equality, diversity, and inclusion within the engineering field.

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

She holds a Ph.D. in Hydrogen Storage from the University of East Anglia, UK, building upon her prior academic achievements. Her journey began with a BEng in Environmental Engineering from Beijing University of Technology, China, where she laid the groundwork for her passion for environmental sciences. Subsequently, she pursued an MSc by Research in Environmental Sciences at the University of East Anglia, further honing her expertise in this field. With each degree, she delved deeper into her fascination with environmental issues, culminating in her doctoral research focused on hydrogen storage, a crucial aspect of renewable energy technology. Through her academic endeavors, she has become a dedicated scholar contributing to the advancement of sustainable solutions for the future.

Awards

She has garnered notable recognition for her contributions to engineering and sustainability, earning accolades such as being named one of the Top 50 Women in Engineering for Sustainability in 2020. Her commitment to advancing the role of women in engineering was further underscored by her appointment as an EPSRC Women in Engineering Ambassador, a position she has held since 2023. Additionally, her expertise and dedication to her field have led to her induction as a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining (IOM3) in 2022, a prestigious honor reflecting her standing among her peers. Through her advocacy, leadership, and scholarly achievements, she continues to inspire and drive positive change in the realms of engineering and environmental sustainability.

 

Academic experience

She brings a wealth of professional experience to her current role as Senior Lecturer and Director of PGRs at the University of Exeter, UK, where she has been serving since 2022. Prior to her current position, she served as a Lecturer at the same institution from 2020 to 2022, where she demonstrated her commitment to academic excellence and student development. Before joining the University of Exeter, she contributed to groundbreaking research as a Research Associate at the University of Bath, UK, from 2017 to 2020. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in her field, fostering the growth of the next generation of researchers, and making impactful contributions to academia and beyond.

Achievements

• Established the Hydrogen Storage Lab at the University of Exeter with 5 PGRs, 2 PDRAs and 1
Research Fellow.
• Secured over £2.7 million in research funding as PI and Co-I from prestigious bodies.
• Published 36 research papers in renowned journals and holds two patents in her field.
• Recognized as one of the Top 50 Women in Engineering
• Honoured as one of EPSRC Women in Engineering Ambassadors.

📝🔬Publications📝

Vatis Christian Kemezang – Environmental economics – Best Researcher Award

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Vatis Christian Kemezang – Environmental economics – Best Researcher Award

Mr. Vatis Christian Kemezang  distinguished academic and researcher in the field Environmental economics. He has also completed several professional development courses in scientific writing, statistical analysis, and the use of statistical software. Kemezang is a native French speaker, with a strong command of the English language, and is a member of several professional organizations, including the Network of Young Economists of the ECA. He is a respected researcher and educator in his field, and is well-known for his expertise in economics and sustainable development. In his free time, Kemezang enjoys traveling and learning about new cultures, and is passionate about finding ways to make a positive impact on the world.

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

He is currently pursuing his PhD in Economics at the University of Douala in Cameroon. Prior to this, he completed his Master of Science in Monetary and Banking Economics in 2018, also at the University of Douala. His undergraduate studies led to a Bachelor of Science in Money, Banking, and Finance from the University of Dschang in 2015. His academic journey began with earning his Baccalaureate A4 in 2012 from Lycee Bilingue de Bépanda in Douala, Cameroon.

 

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

He has held various teaching positions in academia. Since 2019, he has been serving as a Lecturer at the Institut Universitaire des Grandes Écoles des Tropiques (IUGET), where his responsibilities include teaching courses in Banking and Finance, preparing and assessing exams, supervising students in their research projects, and participating in pedagogical projects and academic event organization.

In 2020, he also worked as a Lecturer at the Institut Catholique de Bafoussam (ICAB), where he taught courses in Capital Market and was involved in exam preparation and assessment.

Additionally, from 2020 to 2022, he served as a Part-time Lecturer at the Institut Universitaire de Technologie de Douala (IUT) in Cameroon. In this role, he taught courses in DUT, FI at the Department of GLT, facilitated seminars and practical work, monitored and evaluated students, and contributed to pedagogical projects and academic event organization.

 

CERTIFICATS

He has obtained several certificates covering a range of topics. In 2023, he completed a certificate on preparing an inventory of greenhouse gases under the Enhanced Transparency Framework by the FAO. In 2022, he earned a certificate from IDEP (CEA) on “The African Continental Free Trade Area: The Role Of Parliament and other non-state actors.” Further, he attended sessions on scientific article writing and scientific writing methodology and principles, including fraud detection tools, interpretation, and eliminating similarities. These sessions were conducted by the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement and the Transport and Applied Logistics Laboratory at the University of Douala, respectively.

Moreover, he has engaged in online learning through platforms like OpenClassrooms. He completed courses on various subjects such as initiating R language programming, creating clear and impactful statistical reports, inferential statistics, analyzing and modeling time series, and mastering the basics of probability. These certificates demonstrate his commitment to continuous learning and skill development in diverse areas related to his field.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

1. Climate mitigation technology for holistic resource management in sub-Saharan Africa:
Impact on greenhouse gas emissions
Energy and Climate Change
2024-04 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1016/j.egycc.2024.100135
CONTRIBUTORS: Ivette Gnitedem Keubeng; Vatis Christian Kemezang
2. An insight on non-standard asset pricing: does COVID-19 matter in the crypto-asset
market?
SN Business & Economics
2024-02-07 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1007/s43546-023-00616-z
Part of ISSN: 2662-9399
CONTRIBUTORS: Prince HIKOUATCHA; Guillaume Tchoffo; Vatis Christian Kemezang;
Jules Roger Feudjo
3
3. Balancing short-term costs and long-term benefits: an analysis of the impact of
hydroelectric power generation on electricity prices volatility in Cameroon
Sustainable Energy Research
2024-02-05 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1186/s40807-024-00099-y
Part of ISSN: 2731-9237
CONTRIBUTORS: Etienne Bienvenu Akono; Vatis Christian Kemezang
4. Measuring market risk with GARCH models under Basel III: Selection and application
on German firms
SN Business & Economics
The revised manuscript is currently being under review
CONTRIBUTORS: Vatis Christian Kemezang ; Djou Ilaire, Ivette Keubeng Gnitedem
5. How energy transition and FinTech influence the income inequality in Sub-Saharan
Africa: Evidence from panel-corrected standard errors approach
Next Energy
The second revised manuscript is currently being under review
CONTRIBUTORS: Etienne Bienvenu Akono; Vatis Christian Kemezang
6. Balancing environmental sustainability and international trade: A dynamic analysis of
factors influencing renewable energy generation in Cameroon
Environment, Development and Sustainability
The revised manuscript is currently being under review
CONTRIBUTORS: Etienne Bienvenu Akono; Vatis Christian Kemezang
7. Reducing price volatility in Sub-Saharan Africa through agricultural productivity:
Evidence from a panel data analysis
Next Energy
The second revised manuscript is currently being under review
CONTRIBUTORS: Etienne Bienvenu Akono; Ivette Keubeng Gnitedem; Vatis Christian

Lakmali Weerasena – Ecological Conservation Award – Best Researcher Award

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Lakmali Weerasena – Ecological Conservation Award – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lakmali Weerasena distinguished academic and researcher in the field Ecological Conservation. She specializes in scientific computing with a particular focus on analyzing complex optimization problems and designing efficient algorithms using graph data structures for modeling and data analysis, both theoretically and in practical applications. Her research interests span various domains including engineering, conservation biology, and management science, where she explores emerging models. Drawing from classical optimization techniques, statistical concepts, and modern methodologies such as machine learning, she seeks to address multifaceted challenges. Her contributions extend beyond theoretical investigations to applied research, as evidenced by her publications across diverse areas in applied mathematics, operations research, and statistics in esteemed scientific journals. Furthermore, she actively engages with the academic community by organizing conference sessions and presenting her research as both an invited and contributing speaker, demonstrating her commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering collaboration in her field.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

Lakmali Weerasena holds a Ph.D. in Operations Research from Clemson University, where she completed her dissertation on “Approximation in Multiobjective Optimization with Applications,” under the guidance of Professor Margaret Wiecek. Prior to her doctoral studies, she earned a Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences from Clemson University, focusing on optimization models for designing spatially compact ecological reserve systems, supervised by Professor Emeritus Douglas Shier. Lakmali’s academic journey began at the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Mathematics. Additionally, she pursued non-degree graduate studies at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, delving into Introduction to Machine Learning offered by the Department of Computer Science in the College of Engineering during the spring of 2023. With her diverse educational background spanning across mathematics, optimization, and machine learning, Lakmali Weerasena exhibits a multidisciplinary approach to her academic pursuits.

 Work experiences

 

She has built a distinguished career in academia, currently serving as the UC Foundation Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Tennessee – Chattanooga since August 2022. Prior to this role, she held positions as Assistant Professor of Mathematics at the same institution from August 2016 to August 2022, and as Assistant Professor of Mathematics (Limited Term) at Albany State University from August 2015 to May 2016. Earlier in her career, she served as a Lecturer at Kennesaw State University from August 2014 to May 2015 and as a Visiting Lecturer. Her academic journey began at Clemson University, where she served as a Graduate Teacher of Record from August 2007 to December 2013 while completing her Ph.D. in Operations Research. These experiences have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of mathematics education and research, allowing her to excel in her current role as an esteemed faculty member.

Teaching Experience

In her tenure at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, TN, USA, since August 2016, she has demonstrated her versatility and expertise in teaching across a wide range of courses in the Department of Mathematics. Her teaching portfolio encompasses both undergraduate and graduate levels, covering topics such as computational and applied mathematics, probability and statistics, mathematical statistics, operations research (both linear and nonlinear), applied statistics, mathematical programming, introductory statistics, discrete mathematics for computer science, elementary linear algebra, calculus, and precalculus. Additionally, she supervises graduate-level courses focused on doctoral research, graduate research, and thesis preparation. Through her dedication and proficiency in teaching diverse mathematical subjects, she plays a pivotal role in fostering students’ understanding and appreciation for mathematics at both introductory and advanced levels.

Conferences

Invited Presentations
1. Breadth First Search Algorithm to Identify Connected Reserve Systems, ASB Special Session
on Women in Biology Inspired by Women in Biology, March 2024, Association of Southeastern
Biologists
2. A Sequential Approach to the Design of Compact and Connected Reserve Systems, Research
Colloquium in the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya,
Sri Lanka, January 2024.
3. An integrated approach to the design of compact and connected reserve systems, AWM Special
Session on Exploring the Intersection of Mathematics and Ecology: Research Applications and
Findings, September 2023, AWM Research Symposium.
4. Spatially explicit mathematical model for invasive species management, AMS Special Session
on New Developments in Operations Research and Management Sciences I, October 2022, 2022
Fall Southeastern Sectional Meeting.
5. Advancing local search approximations for multiobjective combinatorial optimization problems,
Department of Mathematics Colloquium, October 2021, UTC, TN, US
6. An approximation approach for the generalized multiobjective set cover problem, Multi-Criteria
Decision Making (MCDM) section, INFORMS (Institute for Operations Research and the
Management Sciences) Conference, October 2021, California.
7. An approximation algorithm for the generalized multiobjective set cover problem, Approximation
Approaches for Multiobjective Optimization in stream Multiobjective Optimization session
under Multiobjective Optimization, 31st European Conference on Operational Research Conference,
July 2021, Athens, Greece (supported by UTC SimCenter grant).
8. Design of an algorithm with multiple-cost efficient rules for the generalized multiobjective set
cover problem, SimCenter and Department of Mathematics Colloquium, April 2021, UTC, TN,
USA.
9. Generalized set cover problem with conflict objective functions: algorithm and applications in
ecological conservation., Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) section, INFORMS (Institute
for Operations Research and the Management Sciences) Conference, October 2019, Seattle, USA
(supported by UTC grant).
10. Combinatorial optimization for ecological conservation, the 43rd Annual Meeting of the SIAM
Atlantic Section, September 2019, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, TN (supported by
UTC grant).
11. Approximation method for optimum design of a fin, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville,
Knoxville, TN, February 14, 2019 (supported by Department of Mathematics, The University
of Tennessee at Knoxville).
12. Multiobjective design of a fin in a steady-state regime, Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM)
section, INFORMS (Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences) Conference,
November 2018, Arizona, USA (supported by UTC grant).

Awards

She has mentored several students who have received prestigious awards and recognition for their academic achievements. Chathuri Aththanayaka participated in and presented a poster at the AWM Research Symposium, supported by the Division of Mathematical Sciences at the National Science Foundation (NSF DMS 2113506) in 2023. Christopher Tompkins received the NCUR Support Award from UTC in the same year. Delwyn Sam and Jonathan Stegmann were both honored with the Honor College Student Award from UTC in 2021 and 2018, respectively, highlighting their exceptional academic performance and contributions. Dell Zimmerman was granted the Scholarship, Engagement, the Arts, Research, Creativity, & Humanities (SEARCH) grant at UTC in 2018, where Dr. Soubantika Palchoudhury led the project. Additionally, Nichols Graham received the Undergraduate Research Award from Albany State University in 2016, recognizing his outstanding research endeavors under her guidance. These accolades underscore her dedication to mentoring and nurturing talented students, fostering their growth and success in academia.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

1. Weerasena L., Aththanayaka C., Bandara D., Advances in the decision-making of set covering
models under uncertainty, Annals of Operations Research (forthcoming, 2024):
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany).
2. Fadul M., Reising D., Weerasena L., Loveless T.D., Sartipi M., Tyler J., Improving RF-DNA
Fingerprinting Performance In An Indoor Multipath Environment Using Semi-Supervised Learning,
IEEE Transactions on Information Forensics and Security (2024): 1-16
(Publisher: IEEE).
3. Fadul M., Reising D., Weerasena L., An Investigation into the Impacts of Deep Learning-based
Re-sampling on Specific Emitter Identification Performance, The Journal of Engineering (2023):
1:11 (Publisher: Wiley, New Jersey, US).
4. Weerasena L., Shier D., Tonkyn D., McFeaters M., Collins C., Sequential approach to reserve
design with compactness and contiguity considerations, Ecological Modelling (2023): 478:10281
(Publisher: Elsevier, Amsterdam, Netherlands). CrossRef Google Scholar
5. Weerasena, L., Ebiefung, A., Skjellum, A., Design of a heuristic algorithm for the generalized
multi-objective set covering problem, Computational Optimization and Applications (2022): 82:717-
751
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
6. Weerasena, L., Hunt, N., Bandara, D., McKnight, M., Spatially Explicit Multi-objective Mathematical
Model for Invasive Species Management, Biological Invasions (2022): 24:1839–1862
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
7. Belinskiy, B., Hinton, D., Weerasena, L., Khan, M., On the Sturm–Liouville problem describing
an ocean waveguide covered by pack ice, Applicable Analysis (2021): 1-23
(Publisher: Taylor and Francis, London, United Kingdom) CrossRef Google Scholar
8. Weerasena, L., Advancing local search approximations for multiobjective combinatorial optimization
problems Journal of Combinatorial Optimization (2021): 1-24.
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
9. Weerasena, L., Belinskiy, B. P., Hiestand, J. W., Optimal effectiveness and efficiency of a fin in
steady-state: multiobjective approach Optimization and Engineering (2020): 1157-1180.
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
10. Weerasena, L. Algorithm for Generalized multiobjective set covering problem with an application
in ecological conservation, Int. J. of Mathematical Modelling and Numerical Optimisation (2020):
Volume 10 No.2, 167 – 186.
(Publisher: Inderscience, Geneva, Switzerland) CrossRef Google Scholar
11. Belinskiy, B. P., Hiestand, J. W., Weerasena, L., Optimal design of a fin in a steady-state regime.
Applied Mathematical Modeling (2020): Volume 77, Part 2, 1188-1200.
(Publisher: Elsevier, Amsterdam, Netherlands) CrossRef Google Scholar
12. Gunasekera, S., Weerasena, L., Saram, A., Ajumobi, O., Exact inference for the Youden index to
discriminate individuals using two-parameter exponentially distributed pooled samples, Biostatistics
& Epidemiology (2019): 38-61.
(Publisher: Taylor and Francis, London, United Kingdom) CrossRef Google Scholar
13. Weerasena L., Wiecek M.M., A tolerance function for the multiobjective set covering problem.
Optimization Letters (2018): 1–19.
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
14. Palchoudhury S., Jungjohann K.,Weerasena L., Arabshahi A., Gharge U., Albattah A., Miller
J., Patel K., Holler R., Enhanced legume root growth with pre-soaking in α Fe2O3 nanoparticle
fertilizer. Royal Society of Chemistry Advances (2018): 24075–24083.
(Publisher: The Royal Society of Chemistry, London, United Kingdom) CrossRef Google Scholar
15. Vanderpooten D., Weerasena L., Wiecek M.M., Covers and approximations in multiobjective
optimization. Journal of Global Optimization (2017): 67(3) 601–619.
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar

Tizita Endale Elcho – Soil science Award – Best Researcher Award

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Tizita Endale Elcho – Soil science Award – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tizita Endale Elcho  distinguished academic and researcher in the field  Soil Science. She is a seasoned researcher specializing in the fields of land degradation, soil quality, and soil erosion, boasting over a decade of expertise in conducting thorough research, crafting insightful analyses, and publishing findings in reputable academic journals. Moreover, she brings more than six years of valuable experience in teaching and mentoring both undergraduate and postgraduate students, guiding them through the complexities of their theses.

During her tenure from 2014 to 2017, she assumed the role of laboratory coordinator at the College of Agriculture Science, Arba Minch University. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the laboratory, facilitating lecture demonstrations, and managing monitoring and evaluation processes.

Her proactive nature allows her to excel independently, showcasing a remarkable ability to stay motivated and meet deadlines even in demanding situations. With a practical mindset and a logical approach to problem-solving, she demonstrates a strong capability to perform efficiently, ensuring successful outcomes even under significant pressure.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

She holds a Doctor of Bioscience Engineering (PhD) degree from KU Leuven and Ghent University in Belgium, earned between 2018 and 2023. Her doctoral research focused on assessing the soil degradation status and processes of agricultural fields across an elevation gradient in the Southern Ethiopian Rift, culminating in her PhD thesis.

Prior to her doctoral studies, she completed her Master of Science (MSc) in Soil Science at Haramaya University in Ethiopia from 2012 to 2014, graduating with a commendable CGPA of 3.64 out of 4.00. Her commitment to academic excellence was evident during her undergraduate years at Bahir Dar University in Ethiopia, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Natural Resource Management from 2006 to 2008, graduating with distinction and achieving a CGPA of 3.46 out of 4.00.

Employment History

She served as a Soil and Water Conservation Expert at the Gamo Gofa Zone Agriculture and Rural Development Office in Arba Minch from 2008 to 2010. In this role, she played a crucial part in scheduling and conducting training sessions for local communities, particularly farmers, on the implementation of soil and water conservation practices. Additionally, she supervised developmental agents across various Kebeles within the Arba Minch district agriculture and rural development office, ensuring the effective dissemination of knowledge and practices. Her responsibilities extended to mobilizing communities to embrace innovative technologies such as water harvesting, watershed management, and integrated soil fertility management, contributing significantly to sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Lecturer and laboratory coordinator at the College of Agricultural Sciences, Arba Minch  University, Arba Minch (2014 – 2023)

Achievements and responsibilities:

  • Conduct basic and applied research with several teams on soil-related issues.
  • Advise both undergraduate and postgraduate students on their final-year research.
  • Train developmental agents and natural resources management experts with the collaboration of Mercy Corps.
  • Lecture several courses such as Fundamental Soil Science, Integrated Soil Fertility Management, Land Degradation and Rehabilitation, Integrated Watershed Management, Research Methodology, Biodiversity Conservation, and Environmental Impact Assessment.
  • Organize and facilitate research symposiums at the university level.
  • Coordinate all laboratory activities of the college.
  • Prepare laboratory guidelines for the relevant bodies of the colleges including departments.
  • Prepare activities and financial plans as well as reports for the college laboratory office.
  • Arranging laboratory equipment and supplies, guide and follow up technical assistance in laboratory activities.
📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Sumanta Chowdhury -Materials for Energy and Environment Award – Best Researcher Award

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Sumanta Chowdhury -Materials for Energy and Environment Award – Best Researcher Award

Mr.Sumanta Chowdhury distinguished academic and researcher in the field Materials for Energy and Environment. The individual possesses a robust skill set and extensive experience in various areas of synthetic chemistry, material characterization, and applications of reticular frameworks (RFMs) such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs). His expertise spans from the synthesis and nano-crystallization of RFMs to the development of RFM-based materials like electrospun nanofibrous membranes. He is well-versed in employing diverse synthetic techniques including solid-state, solution-phase, microwave, room temperature, and microfluidic synthesis.

Moreover, he is proficient in handling a wide range of instruments for material characterization. This includes UV-Visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, thermo gravimetric analysis coupled with differential scanning calorimetry, gas chromatography, elemental analysis, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. He possesses advanced skills in sample preparation, data collection, analysis, and troubleshooting associated with these techniques.

Furthermore, his expertise extends to various applications of RFMs including heterogeneous catalysis, gas adsorption, water remediation, gas sensing, and anticancer drug delivery. He has hands-on experience in conducting in-vitro cell culture studies for evaluating the effectiveness of RFM-based drug delivery systems. Overall, his proficiency and experience make him a valuable asset in research and development efforts related to RFMs and their applications.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He completed his Masters in Chemistry with a specialization in Organic Chemistry from the University of Calcutta in 2017, graduating with First Class honors. During his post-graduation, he worked on a project titled “Core/Shell Ru@SiO4 catalyst: Preparation, Characterization and application in Organo-nanocatalysis” under the guidance of Prof. Dilip Kumar Maity (FRSC) at the Department of Chemistry, Rajabazar Science College/University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India from 2016 to 2017.

Subsequently, he contributed to the DST-SERB funded project “Development of Pristine Graphene as a Catalyst Support” from 2018 to 2020. This research endeavor was conducted under the supervision of Prof. Prem Felix Siril and Prof. Subrata Ghosh, both esteemed professors at the School of Chemical Science, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Academic Achievements/Awards

He has garnered several notable academic achievements and awards throughout his career. In June 2018, he achieved a remarkable rank of 31 (LS) in the Joint CSIR-UGC Junior Research Fellowship & Eligibility for Lectureship (NET, Chemistry) for Chemical Sciences, demonstrating his proficiency in the field. Additionally, in the same year, he secured a commendable rank of 1209 (93.8 percentile) in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE, Chemistry), further attesting to his academic prowess.

His contributions to research have been recognized with prestigious accolades such as the Best Poster Award in Catalysis for Energy, Environment, and Sustainability (CEES-2023) and CO2 INDIA NETWORK- 2nd Annual Meet, held from 25-27th September, 2023, at IIT Mandi. Furthermore, his self-designed scientific illustration was selected as the “Inside Cover Art” in the RSC Environmental Science: Water Research and Technology journal, published in 2024.

He is also a Certified Associate Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry since 2023, highlighting his commitment to professional development and recognition within the scientific community. Moreover, his dedication to research has been further affirmed by securing a Core Research Grant from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) for the project titled “Sustainable Green Hydrogen Production from Glycerol using Continuous Flow Photoreforming: Process and Catalyst Development.”

Teaching/Mentoring Experience

He has extensive experience in teaching and mentoring within the academic realm. He has mentored numerous postgraduate students for their thesis submissions as part of the requirements for the award of their degrees. Notable examples include guiding Parul Sharma for her thesis titled “Lewis & Bronsted Dual Acidic Site Promoted Catalysis for Biodiesel Production” submitted in 2020, and overseeing Muskan Kaur’s thesis on “Design of ZIF-COF Composite for CO2 and epoxide conversion to cyclic carbonates” submitted in 2022. Additionally, he supervised Arun Singh’s thesis on “Investigation of ionic-COFs As Catalytic Support to Silver Nanoparticles for CO2 Adsorption and Dye Degradation” also submitted in 2022, and Ekta Malik’s thesis on “External Surface Area Modulation of Covalent Organic Polymers to Remove Permanganate Ion at an Unprecedented Rate” submitted in 2023. Currently, he is supervising Santanu Saha for his upcoming thesis titled “Covalent Organic Nanospheres for Therapeutic Application and Their Interplay with Immune System,” which is expected to be submitted in 2024.

In addition to mentoring, he has served as a Teaching Assistant (TA) in Inorganic Chemistry Practical Coursework for M.Sc. students from 2019 to 2021. His responsibilities included teaching theory and practical classes, conducting hands-on laboratory experiments, drafting test papers, organizing exams and viva sessions, and grading assessments. His dedication to teaching and mentoring underscores his commitment to fostering academic excellence and nurturing the next generation of scientists and researchers.

Conferences/Symposiums:

He has actively participated in various conferences, symposiums, and seminars, showcasing his research findings and staying updated with the latest advancements in his field. At the Modern Trends in Inorganic Chemistry (MTIC XVIII) in December 2019 held at IIT Guwahati, he presented a poster titled “Microwave Assisted Green Synthesis of Nanostructured Zinc Glutarate as Potential Heterogeneous Catalyst for CO2 Conversion.”

Moreover, he presented another poster titled “Systematic Thiol Decoration in a Redox-Active UiO-66-(SH)2 Metal–Organic Framework: A Case Study under Oxidative and Reductive Conditions” at the International Symposium on Advanced Microscopy and its Applications in Materials Science-2022 held at IIT Madras in November 2022.

In September 2023, he participated in the Catalysis for Energy, Environment and Sustainability (CEES-2023) and CO2 INDIA NETWORK- 2nd Annual Meet at IIT Mandi, where he presented a poster titled “Can active sites promote thermocatalytic CO2 conversion without engaging in CO2 adsorption?”

He also attended a One Day Seminar on BET Surface Area Characterization and Powder Rheology held on 24th Feb 2020. Additionally, he actively participated in online events such as the ACS Spring 2021 conference held from April 5-16 and the International Adsorption Society Webinar Series on Porous Frameworks and Reticular Nano-Synthesis by Prof. Rahul Banerjee on August 9, 2022. These engagements demonstrate his commitment to staying informed about the latest developments in his field and contributing to the scientific community.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Yu-Te Tu – Sustainable Management – Best Researcher Award

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Yu-Te Tu – Sustainable Management – Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Yu-Te Tu  distinguished academic and researcher in the field  Sustainable Management. Presently, he serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Business Administration at Chihlee University of Technology since August 2016. Additionally, he holds part-time roles as Director in the Division of International and Cross-Strait Affairs at Chihlee University of Technology since February 2024, Consultant at China Straits Political, Economic and Cultural Exchange Association since January 2018, and Business Consultant at Gulf International Law Firm since September 2011.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He holds a Ph.D. in Corporate & Organization Management from Lynn University (FL, USA), which he pursued from September 2003 to December 2007. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned an MBA from Long Island University (NY, USA) in Management, completing it from September 1996 to August 1997. He has been recognized by the Ministry of Education with several qualifications, including Associate Professor (No. 140985) since February 2015, Assistant Professor (No. 022877) since February 2008, and Lecturer (No. 055146) since September 1998.

➢ Research interests:

1. Sustainable management
2. Business communication and negotiation
3. Marketing Management

International Journal Editor/Reviewer

He has been serving as an editorial board member for several international journals, including the Science Journal of Business and Management (USA) since May 2018 and SAMANM Group of Research Publications (USA) since May 2013. Additionally, he contributes as a reviewer for esteemed publications such as Environmental Science and Pollution Research (SCIE) since June 2018, Chinese Management Studies (SSCI) since August 2023, and the Journal of Psychology and Psychotherapy Research since October 2018. His expertise extends to various domains, as evidenced by his role as a reviewer for the International Review of Retail, Distribution, and Consumer Research (England) since June 2013 and the International Journal of Business and Marketing Management since December 2013. He also actively participates as a reviewer for SCIENCEDOMAIN international (USA) since January 2014. On the domestic front, he continues to contribute as a reviewer for journals like the Journal of Living Industry Research since January 2013 and the Journal of Life Application and Management since January 2015. Previously, he held positions as an editor and reviewer for Chongyou Journal from August 2009 to July 2012 and served as a reviewer for Yushan General Knowledge Collection from December 2014 to December 2016.

 

📝🔬Publications📝🔬