Yanchun Chen | Technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yanchun Chen | Technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yanchun Chen, Communication University of China, China

Yanchun Chen is a Ph.D. student in Information Communication at the Communication University of China (CUC), specializing in digital public opinion. With a background in computational communication, she has contributed extensively to public opinion analysis and media convergence research. She has published in high-impact journals, including Cities and Ethics and Information Technology. Yanchun has presented her research at IAMCR, AEJMC, and ICA conferences, receiving the IAMCR Urban Communication Award. Her expertise lies in digital media ethics, risk communication, and the socio-political impact of emerging technologies.

Publication Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Yanchun Chen is pursuing her Ph.D. in Information Communication at CUC (2024–Present), focusing on digital public opinion. She holds an M.S. in Communication (Computational Communication) from the State Key Laboratory of Media Convergence and Communication, CUC (2022–2024), where she analyzed communication data to interpret public sentiment. She completed her B.S. in Tourism Management from Minjiang University (2017–2021), developing foundational insights into media’s impact on cultural narratives. Her academic journey reflects an interdisciplinary approach, integrating communication theories with computational methodologies.

💼 Experience

Yanchun has conducted extensive data analysis at the State Key Laboratory of Media Convergence and Communication, focusing on public opinion trends. At the National Broadcast Media Language Resources Monitoring and Research Center, she developed a systematic media monitoring ledger. She has collaborated on international research, applying social network analysis and topic modeling to urban communication and media ethics. Her studies on deepfake resurrection, AI-generated narratives, and crisis communication have contributed to scholarly discourse in media ethics. Additionally, she has served as a research assistant on digital geopolitics projects, addressing trust issues in global media.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Yanchun has received the prestigious IAMCR Urban Communication Award (2024) for her groundbreaking research. She has been recognized with first-class scholarships, an Outstanding Graduate award, and the highest-level alumni scholarship at CUC. She also holds a National Computer Level II certificate and a bilingual tour guide certification. Her research has been nominated for the Best Researcher Award at the International Academic Awards. These accolades underscore her contributions to media studies, computational communication, and digital ethics.

🔬 Research Focus

Yanchun’s research explores urban memory in digital media, risk communication, and ethical implications of AI-generated content. She examines visual representation in short-form media and its role in shaping public perceptions. Her work on deepfake resurrection delves into digital immortality and narrative ethics. Additionally, she investigates media trust, particularly in global crisis communication, using computational methods like DTM topic modeling and social network analysis. Her studies contribute to understanding media convergence, digital ethics, and the socio-political impact of emerging communication technologies.

Publication Top Note

Urban visual representation and ethical narrative risks

Conclusion

Dr. Yanchun Chen demonstrates exceptional research contributions, global academic recognition, and innovative methodologies in digital communication and public opinion studies. Their publications in top-tier journals, prestigious awards, and interdisciplinary research focus make them a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Bilal Elhajjar | Engineering | Industry Impact Academic Award

Dr. Bilal Elhajjar | Engineering | Industry Impact Academic Award

Process Engineering & Development Manager at United Steel Industrial Co, Kuwait

Dr. Bilal Elhajjar is a seasoned engineering professional and academic with over 18 years of experience in the steel and energy industries. He specializes in process engineering, logistics optimization, hydrogen management, and supply chain strategies. As the Process Engineering, Development, and Logistics Manager at KWTSTEEL, he has led over 1000 projects, including steel plant revamps, cost reduction initiatives, and feasibility studies. His expertise spans project management, industrial research, and technical leadership, saving his company approximately $1 million annually through optimized logistics. Academically, he holds a PhD in Fluid Mechanics and has contributed to cutting-edge research in nanofluidics, heat transfer, and industrial process modeling, with multiple high-impact publications. Previously, he served as an Assistant Professor and postdoctoral researcher, bridging academia and industry. His multidisciplinary knowledge and leadership in both industrial and academic settings make him a distinguished figure in engineering and applied research.

Professional Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Bilal Elhajjar holds a PhD in Fluid Mechanics and Heat and Mass Transfer from the University of Toulouse, where he graduated with the highest honors. He also earned a MicroMaster in Supply Chain Management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2022. His academic journey includes a Master’s degree in Fluid Dynamics and Heat Transfer from the University of Toulouse, where he was the valedictorian, and a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from the Lebanese University, also graduating as valedictorian. He has further specialized in renewable energy, earning Galileo Master Certificates in Hydrogen Energy and Renewable Energy Management & Finance from the Renewable Energy Institute. Additionally, he is a certified Hydrogen Energy Consultant Expert. Dr. Elhajjar has continuously enhanced his expertise through certifications in contract law (Harvard University), project management, and advanced quality techniques, equipping him with a strong foundation in both engineering and business management.

Experience 🌟

Dr. Bilal Elhajjar has over 18 years of professional experience spanning the steel, energy, and academic sectors. Since 2012, he has served as the Process Engineering, Development, and Logistics Manager at KWTSTEEL, where he has led over 1000 projects, optimizing supply chain operations, reducing costs, and enhancing plant efficiency. His expertise includes feasibility studies, process control, and commissioning steel plants and equipment. Prior to this, he was an Assistant Professor at the University of Evry Val d’Essonne, where he developed engineering courses and collaborated with industries on applied research projects. He also worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Toulouse, contributing to nanofluidics and heat transfer studies. His career includes research stints at the University of Calgary and collaborations with Airbus and Gaztransport. With a strong blend of industrial leadership and academic research, Dr. Elhajjar has significantly contributed to engineering advancements and operational excellence.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Bilal Elhajjar’s research interests span fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, nanofluidics, hydrogen energy, and industrial process optimization. His work focuses on enhancing efficiency in energy-intensive industries, particularly in steel manufacturing and hydrogen management. He has conducted extensive research on heat transfer modeling, separation of fluid mixtures, and the application of nanotechnology to improve thermal properties of fluids. His studies on Soret-driven convection and thermo-gravitational separation have contributed to advancements in porous media research. Additionally, he has explored hydrogen energy applications, sustainable industrial practices, and supply chain optimization. His research bridges academia and industry, applying scientific principles to real-world engineering challenges, including logistics efficiency and cost reduction in manufacturing. With numerous high-impact publications, Dr. Elhajjar continues to advance knowledge in energy systems, process engineering, and sustainable industrial solutions, making significant contributions to both theoretical research and practical industry applications.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Bilal Elhajjar has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to engineering, research, and industrial process optimization. He graduated as the valedictorian in both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, reflecting his academic excellence. His PhD in Fluid Mechanics from the University of Toulouse was awarded with the highest honors, acknowledging his pioneering research in heat transfer and fluid dynamics. Throughout his career, he has received various professional certifications and recognitions, including Galileo Master Certificates in Hydrogen Energy and Renewable Energy Management & Finance from the Renewable Energy Institute. His innovations in steel manufacturing and logistics optimization, which saved approximately $1 million annually, have positioned him as a leader in industrial process improvement. Additionally, he has been a visiting researcher at the University of Calgary and has collaborated with global organizations like Airbus and Gaztransport. His contributions continue to earn him recognition in both academic and industrial circles.

Research Skill  🔍 

Dr. Bilal Elhajjar possesses exceptional research skills in fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, nanofluidics, hydrogen energy, and industrial process optimization. He excels in numerical modeling, computational simulations, and experimental analysis, applying advanced methodologies to solve complex engineering challenges. His expertise includes finite element analysis, thermal modeling, and process simulation, which he has utilized in industrial research and academic studies. He has conducted groundbreaking research on Soret-driven convection, thermo-gravitational separation, and nanotechnology applications in heat transfer, leading to multiple high-impact publications. Dr. Elhajjar is adept at conducting feasibility studies, analyzing industrial processes, and optimizing supply chains, integrating research-driven strategies to enhance operational efficiency. His ability to bridge theoretical research with practical industry applications makes him a valuable contributor to both academia and engineering fields. With strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical writing skills, he continues to innovate in energy management, sustainable manufacturing, and process improvement.

Conclusion 

Dr. Bilal Elhajjar is a strong candidate for the Industry Impact Academic Award due to his extensive industrial expertise, leadership in engineering projects, and research contributions. His ability to bridge academia and industry is commendable, especially in process optimization, logistics, and hydrogen management. Strengthening the direct link between research and industry-wide impact could further enhance his application. Overall, his credentials align well with the award’s objectives.

Top Noted Publications 📚

  • Author(s): Bilal Elhajjar, Mohamed Samir Larhrib, Davide Mombelli

  • Year: 2025

  • Title: Consequences of Switching From Lime to Dololime Fines Injection in Electric Arc Furnace

  • Journal: Engineering Reports

  • DOI: 10.1002/eng2.70095

  • Type: Journal Article

  • Publication Date: March 2025

Rania Hamdani | Computer science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Rania Hamdani | Computer science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Rania Hamdani, University of Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Rania Hamdani is a research scientist specializing in operational research, data management, and cloud architecture for Industry 5.0. Based in Luxembourg, she is currently affiliated with the University of Luxembourg, where she explores advanced methodologies for integrating and managing heterogeneous data sources. She holds an engineering degree in Software Engineering and has extensive experience in software development, AI, and DevOps. Rania has worked on multiple industry and academic projects, publishing three research papers in Ontology-Driven Knowledge Management and Cloud-Edge AI. With a strong background in programming, cloud computing, and AI-driven solutions, she has contributed to platforms ranging from job recommendation systems to adaptive human-computer interaction systems. Her expertise includes Python, SpringBoot, Kubernetes, and Azure DevOps. She is also an active member of IEEE and other technical organizations, promoting innovation and knowledge-sharing in AI and cloud technologies. 🌍💻🔬

Publication Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Rania Hamdani holds an Engineering Degree in Software Engineering from the National Higher School of Engineers of Tunis (2021–2024), where she specialized in advanced design, service-oriented architecture, object-oriented programming, database management, and operational research. Prior to this, she completed a two-year preparatory cycle at the Preparatory Institute for Engineering Studies of Tunis (2019–2021), undertaking intensive coursework in mathematics, physics, and technology to prepare for engineering studies. She also earned a Mathematics-specialized Baccalaureate from Pioneer High School Bourguiba Tunis (2015–2019), graduating with honors. Throughout her academic journey, she gained expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, and DevOps methodologies. Her education provided a solid foundation in programming languages, data processing techniques, and full-stack development. Additionally, she holds multiple Microsoft certifications in Azure fundamentals, AI, data security, and compliance, reinforcing her expertise in cloud-based solutions and AI-driven applications. 📚🎓💡

💼 Experience

Rania Hamdani is a research scientist at the University of Luxembourg, where she focuses on integrating and managing heterogeneous data sources for cloud-based decision-making. Previously, she was a research intern at the same institution, contributing to Ontology-Driven Knowledge Management and Cloud-Edge AI, with three published papers. She also worked as a part-time software engineer at CareerBoosts in Quebec (2021–2025), specializing in Python, Azure DevOps, Docker, and test automation. She gained industry experience through internships at Qodexia (Paris), Sagemcom (Tunisia), and Tunisie Telecom, working on smart recruitment platforms, employee management systems, and server monitoring solutions using SpringBoot, Angular, and PostgreSQL. Her technical expertise spans full-stack development, DevOps, AI-driven applications, and cloud computing. She has contributed to major projects, including an adaptive human-computer interaction system, a job recommendation system, and a problem-solving platform, demonstrating her versatility in research and software engineering. 🚀🖥️🔍

🏆 Awards & Honors

Rania Hamdani has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to AI-driven cloud computing and operational research. She received excellence awards during her engineering studies at the National Higher School of Engineers of Tunis and was among the top-performing students in her Mathematics-specialized Baccalaureate. Her research papers in Ontology-Driven Knowledge Management and Cloud-Edge AI have been acknowledged in academic circles, contributing to the advancement of Industry 5.0 technologies. She has also earned multiple Microsoft certifications in cloud and AI fundamentals, reinforcing her technical expertise. As an active member of IEEE and the Youth and Science Association, she has been involved in technology outreach and innovation-driven initiatives. Her leadership in ENSIT Junior Enterprise as a project manager further showcases her ability to lead and contribute to tech communities. These recognitions highlight her dedication to research, software development, and cloud-based AI applications. 🏅📜🌟

🔬 Research Focus

Rania Hamdani’s research focuses on operational research, data management, cloud-edge AI, and Industry 5.0 applications. She specializes in ontology-driven knowledge management, exploring methodologies for integrating heterogeneous data sources to optimize cloud-based decision-making processes. Her work includes artificial intelligence, machine learning, reinforcement learning, and human-computer interaction systems. She has contributed to projects involving job recommendation systems, adaptive human-computer interaction platforms, and cloud-based problem-solving platforms. Rania is particularly interested in scalable cloud architectures, leveraging technologies like FastAPI, Kubernetes, Docker, and Azure DevOps to build efficient AI-powered solutions. Her research also integrates graph databases, Apache Airflow, and big data analytics for enhanced data processing. By combining AI and cloud computing, she aims to develop innovative, data-driven solutions for automation, decision support, and optimization in various industrial applications. Her expertise bridges the gap between theoretical research and real-world software engineering. ☁️🤖📊

 

Publication Top Notes

Adaptive human-computer interaction for industry 5.0: A novel concept, with comprehensive review and empirical validation

 

Erika Loučanová | Digital Transformation | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erika Loučanová | Digital Transformation | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof., Technical Unversity in Zvolen, Slovakia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erika Loučanová is a researcher and educator specializing in innovation management and eco-innovation 🌱. She serves as an Associate Professor at the Technical University of Zvolen and has over two decades of experience in academia 📚. Holding a PhD in Sectoral and Cross-Sectional Economics, her work focuses on sustainable business strategies and industrial innovation. She has authored 320+ publications 📝 and contributed to major scientific projects.

Publication Profile

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🎓 Education & Academic Qualifications

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erika Loučanová has a strong academic background in economics and business management 📚. In 2021, she attained the title of Associate Professor at the University of Žilina, specializing in Sectoral and Cross-Sectional Economics 📊. She earned her PhD (2007) from the Technical University of Zvolen, focusing on innovation in the woodworking industry 🏗️. Earlier, she completed her Engineering degree (2004) in Wood Engineering – Business Management 🏢. Her academic journey began at the Business Academy Žiar nad Hronom (1999), where she graduated with a strong foundation in business studies 💼.

 

🏆 Skills & Certifications

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erika Loučanová possesses strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills 🗂️, honed through scientific projects, research management, and conference organization 🎤. She is proficient in digital tools 💻, including Microsoft Office, STATISTICA, and Adobe Acrobat Reader. Her work ethic is defined by reliability, flexibility, and leadership 🤝. She holds multiple certifications 📜, including Managing Innovation (2024, UNIDO, Austria), Business and Law (2022, Palacký University), and Tax Law (2023, Palacký University). Additionally, she has expertise in public health protection 🏥 and has undergone training in cluster management and bookkeeping 📊. Fluent in English, she actively engages in scientific collaboration 🌍.

Research Focus

Erika Loučanová’s research primarily focuses on eco-innovation, sustainable development, and business models for digital transformation and smart services. 🌱💡 Her work explores strategic environmental consumer segmentation, AI in innovation processes, and financial sustainability in pension systems. 📊🏡 She has contributed significantly to ecological innovation in Slovakia, including perceptions of wood-based structures and eco-services innovations in the furniture industry. 🏗️🌳 Additionally, she examines innovation in banking, management education, and public smart services for sustainability. 🏦🎓 Her research integrates economic, environmental, and technological perspectives, making substantial contributions to green business strategies and digital innovation. 🌍📈

Publication Top Notes

  • “Digital Transformation in Higher Education Institutions as a Driver of Social Oriented Innovations” (2022) – Cited by 3

  • “Innovation as a Tool for Sustainable Development in Small and Medium Size Enterprises in Slovakia” (2023) – Cited by 6

  • “The Perception of Respondents of Intelligent Packaging in Slovakia as Ecological Innovations” (2019) – Cited by 5

  • “Supporting Ecological Innovation as a Factor for Economic Development” (2019)

  • “Perception of packaging functions and the interest in intelligent and active packaging in terms of age” (2018)

  • Hodnotenie stavu udržateľnosti krajín EÚ (2022)  🌍♻️

  • Obchodné praktiky aplikované voči spotrebiteľom a ich právam na slovenskom trhu z pohľadu etiky (2022)  ⚖️🛒

  • Perception of Supplied Furniture and Its Innovation by Slovak Customers (2022)  🏠✨

  • The Relationship of Innovation and the Performance of Business Logistics in the EU (2022)  🚚📈

  • Crowdfunding as a Way of the Monetary and Financial Ecologies (2021)  💰🌱

  • Ecological Innovations in Services – Servitization of Furniture (2021) 🌳🛋️

  • Perception of Zero Waste in the Context of Environmental Innovation in Slovakia (2021) 🌿🚯

  • Positive Effects of the Forest on the Human Organism in the Context of Ecological Innovations and Modern Medicine (2021) 🌲❤️

  • Practices of Innovative Marketing Communication Tools in Furniture Sector (2021)  📢🪑

Daniso Beswa | Technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Daniso Beswa | Technology | Best Researcher Award

Senior lecturer, UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG, South Africa

Daniso Beswa is a distinguished senior lecturer and researcher at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. With a deep commitment to advancing food security and nutrition, Dr. Beswa brings a wealth of expertise in food technology and security to his role. 🌟

Publication Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contributions: Daniso Beswa has a robust portfolio of research in food science, particularly focusing on food security, indigenous food sources, and functional ingredients. His work on provitamin A-biofortified maize and the use of lesser-known local food sources highlights his commitment to addressing critical nutritional issues and advancing food science.
  2. High-Quality Publications: Beswa has a substantial number of peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, showcasing his research impact. His publications in respected journals such as Foods (Basel), Molecules, and the International Journal of Food Science reflect the quality and relevance of his work.
  3. Supervision and Mentoring: He has successfully supervised numerous postgraduate students, including PhD and MSc candidates. This demonstrates his role in fostering the next generation of researchers and his ability to guide and mentor emerging scientists.
  4. Community Engagement: Beswa’s involvement in community projects, such as the Gwakwani Extended Projects and teaching at local schools, indicates his commitment to applying his research in practical, community-centered contexts.
  5. Professional Development and Teaching: His ongoing professional development and extensive teaching experience in food science and technology further support his expertise and contribution to the field.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Impact and Outreach: While Beswa’s research is focused and impactful, increasing outreach efforts and translating his findings into policy recommendations or broader public awareness could enhance the societal impact of his work.
  2. Grant Funding and Collaborations: Securing more substantial research grants and fostering international collaborations could elevate the scope and scale of his research projects, leading to potentially groundbreaking advancements in food technology and security.
  3. Diversification of Research Topics: Expanding research into new and emerging areas of food science, such as sustainable food systems or innovative food processing technologies, could further enhance his research profile.

Conclusion:

Daniso Beswa is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive contributions to food science and technology, significant research output, successful supervision of postgraduate students, and community engagement underscore his exceptional qualifications. Addressing areas for improvement, such as expanding outreach and securing more research funding, could further enhance his already impressive impact in the field.

 

Education:

Dr. Beswa earned his PhD in Food Security from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where his research centered on provitamin A-biofortified maize and its role in combating vitamin A deficiency. He also holds a Master’s in Food Technology from the University of Johannesburg, focusing on innovative uses of composite flours in breadmaking. 🎓

Experience:

As a senior lecturer at the University of Johannesburg, Dr. Beswa has conducted significant research into indigenous and lesser-known food sources as functional food ingredients. His work aims to enhance food security and nutritional quality through practical applications and innovative solutions. 📚

Research Focus:

Dr. Beswa’s current research explores the potential of indigenous and less commonly used local food sources as functional ingredients, investigating their health benefits and applications in food technology. His past research has also delved into the use of biofortified maize and composite flours. 🔬

Awards:

Dr. Beswa has been recognized for his contributions to food security and technology, although specific awards are not listed, his work is highly regarded in the field for its impact on addressing global nutritional challenges. 🏆

Publications

  1. Effect of Cowpea and Pumpkin Powders on the Physicofunctional Properties, Total Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Activity, and Consumer Acceptability of Soup
    International Journal of Food Science
    2024-01
  2. Effect of Common Cooking and Drying Methods on Phytochemical and Antioxidant Properties of Corchorus olitorius Identified Using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS)
    Molecules
    2022-12-19
  3. Cannabis sativa Cannabinoids as Functional Ingredients in Snack Foods—Historical and Developmental Aspects
    Plants
    2022-12-01
  4. Prospective Role of Indigenous Leafy Vegetables as Functional Food Ingredients
    Molecules
    2022-11-18
  5. Quantification of Oil Fractions of Deep-Fried Wheat Dough and Batter Enriched with Oat and Wheat Bran
    Journal of Food Quality