Iara Teixeira | Psychology | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Iara Teixeira | Psychology | Young Scientist Award

University of Minho | Portugal

Ms. Iara Teixeira is an accomplished psychologist specializing in applied and organizational psychology, with a strong focus on psychosocial risks, mental health, and LGBTQIA+ occupational well-being. She is currently pursuing a PhD at Universidade do Minho, Portugal, and holds a Masters and Integrated Masters in Psychology from Universidade Federal do Piauí, Brazil, alongside a Postgraduate Diploma in Work, Organizational, and Human Resources Psychology. Ms. Iara Teixeira has contributed extensively to research on phubbing, internet addiction, homonegatividade, racial and sexual stigma, and digital technology’s impact on relationships. She has authored books, book chapters, and peer-reviewed journal articles, including studies on trans women’s labor trajectories in Portugal and depression in vulnerable youth. Ms. Iara Teixeira has presented her work at international and national conferences, organized seminars, and served on multiple organizing committees. Her projects include research on occupational health and psychosocial risks in LGBTQIA+ populations, evidencing factorial validity in psychological scales and contributing to evidence-based interventions, reflecting a sustained impact on both academic knowledge and societal well-being.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Teixeira, I. do N., Alckmin-Carvalho, F., & Pereira, H. (2025). “You always have to prove yourself”: Trans women’s experiences in the Portuguese labor market. International Journal of Transgender Health.

Teixeira, I. do N., Alckmin-Carvalho, F., Bloniewski, T., Tosto, M. G., Brandelli Costa, A., Poletto, M., Dell’Aglio, D. D., Koller, S. H., & Wendt, G. W. (2025). Associations between depression, school performance and perception of stressful life events in a non-WEIRD sample of vulnerable students. Trends in Psychology.

Alckmin-Carvalho, F., Oliveira, A., & Teixeira, I. do N. (2025). Associação entre bullying e adversidade familiar: Associações entre bullying, adversidade familiar e psicopatologias em adolescentes brasileiros. In [Book Title]. [Publisher].

Teixeira, I. do N., Wendt, G. W., Alckmin-Carvalho, F., & De Assis Freire, S. E. (2025). Connected but distant: The paradox of digital use and its impact on romantic commitment. Cyberpsychology.

Teixeira, I. do N., Wendt, G. W., & Alckmin-Carvalho, F. (2025). Cyberbullying victimization and depression in youth: Brazilian findings. Societies.

ADIL SAMEKIN | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. ADIL SAMEKIN | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. ADIL SAMEKIN, M. Narikbayev KAZGUU University, Kazakhstan

Adil Serikpayevich Samekin is an accomplished psychologist and academic with a PhD in Psychology from the Committee for Control in Education and Science of Kazakhstan. He graduated from Pavlodar State University and has extensive teaching experience at various universities, including KAZGUU and the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan. His research interests focus on migration psychology and social identity, collaborating on numerous international projects. Samekin has been recognized for his contributions to the field and holds several author certificates for his methodologies on migration subjects in Kazakhstan. He is known for his initiative, responsibility, and diligence. 🌍📚🧠

Publication Profile

Orcid

Academic Background

Education: Mr. Samekin has a solid academic foundation, with a bachelor’s degree in Pedagogy and Psychology, a master’s degree in Psychology, and a PhD in Psychology from prestigious institutions, including Lomonosov Moscow State University.

Associate Professor: He holds the title of Associate Professor in Psychology, demonstrating recognition in his field.

Research Contributions

Cross-Cultural Research: His involvement in various international collaborative research projects highlights his commitment to advancing knowledge in psychology through cross-cultural studies, addressing topics like mental health, identity, and stereotypes across diverse populations.

Professional Experience

Teaching and Leadership Roles: Mr. Samekin has held significant teaching and leadership positions at various universities, contributing to the education of future psychologists and researchers.

National Council Membership: His role as a member of the National Scientific Council of Kazakhstan in the field of humanities and social sciences indicates his influence and recognition within the academic community.

Awards and Recognition

Research Grants: He is the scientific supervisor of a significant research project funded by a grant, demonstrating his ability to lead substantial research initiatives and manage funding effectively.

International Collaboration: His engagement in international projects showcases his ability to work collaboratively and contribute to global research efforts.

Conclusion

Mr. Adil Samekin is well-suited for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His work not only enhances the field of psychology but also contributes to the broader understanding of social phenomena in various cultural contexts.

Publication Top Notes

  • A trouble shared is a trouble halved: The role of family identification and identification with humankind in well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic (2021) – Cited by: 30+ 📖
  • Are Benevolent Attitudes More Closely Related to Attitudes toward Homosexuals than Hostile Ones? Cases of Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia (2021) – Cited by: 10+ 🌍
  • Associations of risk perception of COVID-19 with emotion and mental health during the pandemic (2021) – Cited by: 50+ 😷
  • Identity leadership, employee burnout and the mediating role of team identification: Evidence from the global identity leadership development project (2021) – Cited by: 20+ 💼
  • Intergenerational conflicts of interest and prosocial behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic (2021) – Cited by: 15+ 👥
  • Lives versus Livelihoods? Perceived economic risk has a stronger association with support for COVID-19 preventive measures than perceived health risk (2021) – Cited by: 25+ 💰
  • Lockdown Lives: A Longitudinal Study of Inter-Relationships Among Feelings of Loneliness, Social Contacts, and Solidarity During the COVID-19 Lockdown in Early 2020 (2021) – Cited by: 30+ 📅
  • Politicization of COVID-19 health-protective behaviors in the United States: Longitudinal and cross-national evidence (2021) – Cited by: 40+ 🇺🇸
  • Psychometric Properties and Correlates of Precarious Manhood Beliefs in 62 Nations (2021) – Cited by: 12+ ⚖️
  • Structure of Dark Triad Dirty Dozen Across Eight World Regions (2021) – Cited by: 22+ 🔍

Ibolya Kotta | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ibolya Kotta | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ibolya Kotta, Babes-Bolyai University, Romania

Dr. Ibolya Kotta is an Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Applied Psychology at Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. With a PhD in Psychology and multiple master’s degrees, she has extensive teaching experience in Clinical Psychology and Research Methodology. Dr. Kotta is also a certified Clinical Psychologist and Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapist. She has completed various professional training courses, including Schema Therapy for children and adolescents. In 2011, she received the “Florian Stefanescu Goanga” Award for her contributions to psychology education. Outside academia, she practices psychology in a private setting. 🧠📚✨

 

Publication profile

Orcid

Work Experience

Dr. Kotta has held various academic positions at Babeş-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca since 2004, progressing from a teaching assistant to her current role as an Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Applied Psychology. Her responsibilities include conducting scientific research, delivering university courses, and engaging in administrative duties. This depth of experience indicates her strong commitment to academia and research.

Education and Training

Dr. Kotta has a robust educational foundation, holding a PhD in Psychology from Babeş-Bolyai University, along with multiple master’s degrees in the same field. Her academic trajectory showcases her dedication to the discipline and her continuous pursuit of knowledge.

Didactic Experience

Throughout her career, Dr. Kotta has taught various courses, including Clinical Psychology, Ethics and Academic Integrity, and Research Methodology. This teaching portfolio reflects her versatility and expertise, contributing to the training of future psychologists and enhancing the educational framework of her department.

Professional Development

Dr. Kotta has undertaken numerous professional courses, including Schema Therapy for children and adolescents and Video Interaction Guidance. This commitment to ongoing professional development highlights her proactive approach to integrating new methodologies and therapeutic techniques into her practice.

Certifications

She is a certified Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapist, and Educational Psychologist. These certifications reinforce her credibility and demonstrate her proficiency in multiple areas of psychology, enhancing her capability to conduct impactful research.

 

Awards

Dr. Kotta received the “Florian Stefanescu Goanga” Award from Babeş-Bolyai University, recognizing her contributions to the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences. This accolade underscores her dedication to excellence in her field and her influence within the academic community.

Conclusion

Given her extensive experience in academia, continuous professional development, and recognition through awards, Dr. Ibolya Kotta is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her contributions to the field of psychology, both as an educator and a practitioner, make her a valuable asset in advancing psychological research and education.

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Intolerance of Uncertainty and Neuroticism: Transdiagnostic Vulnerabilities and War-Related Safety Preparatory Behavior
    Journal of Loss and Trauma (2024) | DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2024.2407086 📰
  • The Highs and Lows of Pornography Use: Does Motivation Affect Users’ Life Satisfaction?
    Studia Universitatis Babeș-Bolyai Psychologia-Paedagogia (2024) | DOI: 10.24193/subbpsyped.2024.1.10 📊
  • Motivation Profile and Wellbeing in Transylvanian Hungarians with Type 2 Diabetes
    Studia Universitatis Babeș-Bolyai Psychologia-Paedagogia (2023) | DOI: 10.24193/subbpsyped.2023.1.01 🩺
  • The Fear of War Scale (FOWARS): Development and Initial Validation
    Social Sciences (2023) | DOI: 10.3390/socsci12050283 ⚔️
  • 12 STEPS AND ABSTINENCE: HOW DO I STAY SOBER?
    Studia Psy Paed (2022) 📚
  • Increased Risk Perception, Distress Intolerance and Health Anxiety in Stricter Lockdowns: Self-Control as a Key Protective Factor in Early Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
    International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2022) | DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095098 🦠
  • My Fate Is My Decision: The Differential Effects of Fate and Criticality of Decision Beliefs on Career Decision Making Self-Efficacy
    European Journal of Behavioral Sciences (2022) 📈
  • Perceived Career Barriers as a Mediator Between Career Adaptability and Life Satisfaction
    European Journal of Behavioral Sciences (2022) | DOI: 10.33422/ejbs.v4i1.603 🚀
  • The Fear of War Scale (FOWARS): development and initial validation
    Preprint (2022) | DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/sfz2v 📑
  • Online Sexual Activity Scale (OSAS): Going Beyond the Nosological Polemics of Compulsivity vs Addiction
    International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction (2022) | DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00791-4 💻

 

 

Meseret Tessema | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Meseret Tessema | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Head of Department,  Psychology University of Gondar,  Ethiopia

Meseret Tessema is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Holding a Ph.D. in Psychology from Andhra University and a Master’s in Educational Psychology from Bahirdar University, he possesses a robust academic foundation. His nearly ten years of teaching experience at Hosanna College of Teacher Education and his current role as an Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Psychology at the University of Gondar highlight his commitment to higher education. Meseret has actively engaged in research addressing critical issues like quality education, mental health, and the challenges faced by disadvantaged groups in Ethiopia, with numerous publications in reputable journals. His research interests encompass health psychology and inclusive education, aligning with contemporary global priorities. Furthermore, his dedication to community service through research initiatives demonstrates a strong commitment to social responsibility. Overall, Meseret’s extensive qualifications and impactful contributions make him an exceptional candidate for this prestigious award.

Profile:

Education

Meseret Tessema holds a distinguished academic background, earning a Ph.D. in Psychology from Andhra University, India, in June 2021, following a Master’s in Educational Psychology from Bahirdar University, Ethiopia, in 2011. He also possesses a Bachelor of Arts in Educational Psychology from Addis Ababa University, obtained in 2005. His educational journey reflects a solid foundation in psychological principles, particularly in the context of education. Over the years, Meseret has accumulated nearly a decade of teaching experience at Hosanna College of Teacher Education, where he served as a lecturer and coordinator. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor and the Head of the Department of Psychology at the University of Gondar, Ethiopia. His research focuses on health psychology, education, and the well-being of vulnerable populations, demonstrating a commitment to improving educational and psychological outcomes within his community. Meseret’s educational qualifications and extensive teaching experience make him a notable figure in the field of educational psychology.

 

Research Skills

Meseret Tessema possesses a robust set of research skills that underscore his expertise in psychology and education. His ability to design and conduct empirical studies is evidenced by his successful completion of a Ph.D. dissertation focused on the interplay between teaching styles and student engagement in Ethiopian universities. Meseret’s proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies enables him to address complex issues such as mental health and educational challenges faced by disadvantaged populations. He has collaborated on numerous research projects, showcasing his capacity to work effectively in teams while also leading initiatives that promote quality education. His publications in respected journals reflect not only his analytical skills but also his commitment to disseminating knowledge that informs policy and practice. Furthermore, his engagement in community-based research underscores his dedication to applying academic insights to real-world challenges, making his research contributions both impactful and relevant.

 

Professional Experiences

Meseret Tessema has amassed a wealth of professional experience in the field of psychology and education. He began his career as a lecturer at Hosanna College of Teacher Education in Ethiopia, where he served from September 2005 to August 2014. In this role, he not only taught psychology and education courses but also coordinated the Guidance and Counseling office, demonstrating his leadership abilities. Subsequently, he became a Psychology Research Assistant at McGill University, Canada, for a year, further broadening his research acumen. Since September 2014, Meseret has been an Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Psychology at the University of Gondar, where he is deeply involved in teaching, research, and community service. His diverse roles have equipped him with a unique skill set, enabling him to effectively contribute to academic discourse and address critical issues in education and mental health within Ethiopian society.

Award And Recognition

Dr. Meseret Tessema is a distinguished scholar and educator recognized for his significant contributions to the fields of psychology and education in Ethiopia. With a Ph.D. in Psychology and over nine years of teaching experience, he has dedicated his career to enhancing educational quality and addressing mental health challenges among disadvantaged communities. His research on topics such as academic engagement, special needs education, and psychosocial issues has been published in reputable international journals, demonstrating his commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in his field. As the Head of the Department of Psychology at the University of Gondar, Dr. Tessema has also played a crucial role in mentoring students and fostering an inclusive learning environment. His unwavering dedication to community service and academic excellence has earned him accolades and respect among peers, making him a deserving candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Conclusion

Meseret Tessema is a remarkable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award due to his extensive qualifications, experience, and commitment to improving educational and psychological outcomes in Ethiopia. With a Ph.D. in Psychology and significant teaching experience at respected institutions, he has demonstrated both academic excellence and leadership in higher education. His diverse research projects address critical issues such as quality education, mental health, and the challenges faced by disadvantaged groups, reflecting his dedication to community service. Meseret’s publications in reputable journals showcase his ability to contribute valuable insights to the field, while his research interests align with current global priorities. Moreover, his engagement with community issues emphasizes his commitment to applying academic knowledge for societal benefit. Overall, Meseret’s unique blend of educational expertise, research contributions, and community involvement makes him a deserving candidate for this prestigious award, highlighting the impact of his work on both academia and society.

Publication Top Notes

  • Authors: Meseret G. & Ananada, R.
    Year: 2018
    Title: University students’ engagement; a case of three public universities in Amhara regional state, Ethiopia.
    Journal: International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Literature
    Citation: 6(12), 197-206.
  • Authors: Meseret G. & Ananada, R.
    Year: 2018
    Title: University students’ engagement and academic achievement in Ethiopian public universities.
    Journal: Journal of Advanced and Scholarly Researches in Allied Education
    Citation: 15(12).
  • Authors: Meseret G. & Ananada, R.
    Year: 2019
    Title: The correlates of mental health and preschool education school system at Amhara regional state, Ethiopia: Curriculum, Teaching style, and Children’s Engagement.
    Journal: International Journal of Multidisciplinary
    Citation: 4(2).
  • Authors: Meseret G. & Ebabush, Y.
    Year: 2019
    Title: An overview of aging and culture in the Ethiopian context.
    Journal: Journal of Advances and Scholarly Research in Allied Education
    Citation: 16(12).
  • Authors: Meseret Getachew Tessema; Simegn Sendek Yizengaw; Ebabush Yerdaw Kassa; Missaye Mulatie Mengstie
    Year: 2024
    Title: Beyond babysitting: an analysis of the quality of childcare service in Ethiopia.
    Journal: Vulnerable Children and Youth Studies
    Citation: DOI: 10.1080/17450128.2024.2406273.

 

 

Shivani Jandhyala | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Shivani Jandhyala | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar, Vellore Institute of Technology, India

Jandhyala Sree Shivani is a dedicated Research Scholar at VIT Vellore, specializing in Organizational Psychology. With a robust background as a Counseling Psychologist, she brings over four years of experience in diverse therapeutic modalities and extensive work with various demographic groups.

Profile

Google Scholar

 

Education 📚

Shivani holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Psychology from Vellore Institute of Technology, where she explores the dynamics of human behavior in workplace settings. She earned her M.Sc. in Counseling from School of Social Work Roshni Nilaya, Mangalore, and completed her undergraduate studies in English Literature, Psychology, and Journalism from St. Joseph’s College for Women, Visakhapatnam.

Experience 💼

Her professional journey spans significant roles as a Counselor and Researcher. Shivani has conducted numerous workshops and group sessions on mental health awareness, emotional management, and stress reduction, impacting diverse populations including students, women from rural backgrounds, and corporate employees.

Research Interests 🔍

Shivani’s research focuses on the intersections of psychology and organizational behavior, with a keen interest in workplace dynamics, employee well-being, and interpersonal relationships within organizational settings.

Awards 🏆

She has been recognized with a Certificate of Recognition from Knowledge Academy for Assertiveness Skills and received training accolades from Gap Inc.’s P.A.C.E program. Her academic achievements include securing first place in theory presentations and notable contributions to academic conferences.

Publications 📄

Unconscious Bullying in the Workplace: A Qualitative Exploration, Journal Human Research in Rehabilitation, 2024.

Everyday Assertiveness and Its Significance for Overall Mental Well-Being, Universal Journal of Public Health, 2024.

Indian Philosophical Model of Authentic Leadership and Management, Journal of Dharma, 2023.

Influence of Social Networking Sites on Adolescence: A Group Therapy Approach, Adelaide Journal of Social Work, 2020.

Mokgata Matjie | Industrial Psychology Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Mokgata Matjie | Industrial Psychology Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Mokgata Matjie, University of Limpopo, South Africa

Prof. Mokgata Matjie is an esteemed Associate Professor of Human Resource Management at the University of Limpopo, having transitioned from a Senior Lecturer role at the University of South Africa (UNISA) where she specialized in Industrial and Organisational Psychology. Her academic journey is decorated with a DTech in Labour Relations Management and multiple honors, including top student awards and a Council Award for best coursework master’s student. An accomplished author and researcher, she has published a textbook and numerous articles, and is actively involved in mentoring postgraduate students. Prof. Matjie holds key professional registrations and contributes significantly to academic and professional communities through various leadership roles and editorial board memberships. 📘🎓

Publication profile

📚 Academic Background and Qualifications

Prof. Mokgata Matjie is an accomplished academic with a strong foundation in Labour Relations and Industrial Psychology. She earned her DTech in Labour Relations Management in 2021, adding to her impressive list of qualifications, which includes a Master of Commerce in Industrial Psychology (cum laude) from the University of South Africa (Unisa) in 2018, a Master of Administration, Bachelor of Administration Honours, and Bachelor of Administration from the University of Limpopo (UL) 🌟. Additionally, she holds various professional certifications, including Advanced Labour Law, Moderator, Assessor, Cross-examination, and Labour Administration, showcasing her expertise in both theoretical and practical aspects of her field 🎓.

🏆 Awards and Recognitions

Prof. Matjie has received several awards recognizing her excellence and dedication. She was awarded the Council Award for being the best overall Coursework Master’s Student in Industrial and Organisational Psychology in 2018. Her consistent academic performance also earned her multiple top student awards during her undergraduate and honours studies, underscoring her commitment to academic excellence 🏅.

 

Experience

Prof. Matjie is registered as an Industrial Psychologist with the Health Professional Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and as an HR Professional in Learning and Development with the South African Board for People Practices (SABPP) 💼. Her extensive employment history includes roles such as a part-time lecturer at the Tshwane University of Technology, a psychologist at PsychLink, and various academic and administrative positions at Unisa and the University of Limpopo. Her diverse professional background enriches her academic and research pursuits, making her a well-rounded and experienced scholar and practitioner 🌐.

📊 Research Focus

Prof. Mokgata Matjie’s research is primarily centered around leadership effectiveness, emotional intelligence, and organizational behavior in the context of the public sector and industrial relations 🌟. Her work explores the interplay between emotional competence and leadership effectiveness, with a particular focus on how these factors impact organizational performance and employee dynamics in various sectors, including government and higher education 🏢. She has a strong interest in the roles and challenges faced by shop stewards and the psychological aspects of employment relations, underscoring her dedication to enhancing workplace environments and policies 📘. Her comprehensive approach bridges psychology, public administration, and human resource management to address complex organizational issues 🔍.

 

MokgataMatjie | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

MokgataMatjie | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. MokgataMatjie,University of Limpopo, South Africa

🎓 Dr. M.A. Matjie is an Associate Professor of HRM at the University of Limpopo since June 2024. Previously, he was a Senior Lecturer at UNISA, where he also served as a Lecturer. He holds a DTech in Labour Relations Management and an MCom in Industrial Psychology, cum laude. Dr. Matjie is an accomplished author, publishing several notable works, including “Employment Relations in South Africa: A psychological perspective”. His research spans industrial psychology and labor relations. He actively contributes to academic committees and supervises numerous postgraduate students. Dr. Matjie is registered with HPCSA and SABPP, bringing significant expertise to his field. 📚✨

Publication Top Notes

Orcid

Google Scholor

Scopus

Education

🎓 Dr. M.A. Matjie holds a DTech in Labour Relations Management (2021) and an MCom in Industrial Psychology, cum laude, from UNISA (2018). Additionally, he earned his MADMIN, BADMIN Hons, and BADMIN from the University of Limpopo. Dr. Matjie also possesses various certificates, including Advanced Labour Law, Skills Development Facilitator, Moderator, Assessor, Cross-examination, and Labour Administration. He has been recognized for his academic excellence, receiving multiple top student awards throughout his educational journey, and has authored a widely prescribed textbook for UNISA. 📘🌟

+

Research Focus

Dr. M.A. Matjie’s research primarily centers on industrial and organizational psychology, with a keen interest in the psychological aspects of employment relations, performance management, and the roles of industrial psychologists within forensic contexts. His work explores the challenges and experiences of employees, particularly focusing on shop stewards and female employees in South African trade unions. Dr. Matjie is also invested in developing theoretical frameworks for conflict management and employee engagement, aiming to enhance workplace dynamics and organizational effectiveness through empirical research and applied psychology. 📊💼

Publication Top Notes