Fereshteh Abbasi | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Fereshteh Abbasi | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Researcher | The University of Tehran | Iran

Dr. Fereshteh Abbasi is a horticultural science researcher whose work centers on optimizing greenhouse production systems, improving floricultural crop performance, and advancing controlled environment agriculture. Her research spans the physiology of ornamental plants, plant nutrition, and responses of cut flower species particularly Lilium hybrids to environmental and nutritional variables. With a growing scholarly footprint that includes 3 research publications, 15 citations, and an h-index of 2, her contributions reflect a focused and emerging expertise in floriculture physiology and soilless cultivation technologies. Her studies investigate critical factors such as nutrient solution composition, calcium ammonium ratios, and the efficiency of aeroponic and ultrasonic soilless systems to enhance growth, yield, and postharvest quality. Dr. Abbasi’s work on biochemical and morphological responses of Lilium cultivars to growth regulators such as salicylic acid and benzyl adenine adds significant insight into improving vase life and stress tolerance in ornamentals. Additionally, she has explored the effects of macro- and nano-nutrient applications on physiological traits, contributing to sustainable and high-efficiency greenhouse management practices. Overall, her research advances knowledge in modern horticulture by integrating plant physiology, applied biotechnology, and innovative cultivation systems to support the development of resilient and high-quality floricultural products.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar 

Featured Publication

Abbasi, F., Khandan-Mirkohi, A., Haji Ahmad, A., Kafi, M., & Shokrpour, M. Optimization of aeroponic and ultrasonic soilless culture systems in terms of timing and growth characteristics of Lilium OT hybrid

Eleni Andreou | Psychology | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Eleni Andreou | Psychology | Research Excellence Award

Professor | The University of Thessaly | Greece

Prof. Eleni Andreou is a leading scholar in educational psychology whose research has significantly shaped contemporary understanding of bullying, peer aggression, school climate, and student psychosocial adjustment. Her work integrates developmental, cognitive, and socio-emotional perspectives to examine how interpersonal relationships, coping responses, and contextual factors influence children’s and adolescents’ behavior within educational settings. With 48 scholarly documents, over 1,300 citations, and an h-index of 19, her research is recognized internationally for both theoretical contribution and applied impact. A major focus of her scholarship examines bully victim dynamics, emphasizing the role of self-efficacy, coping strategies, social cognition, and resilience in children’s responses to aggression. Through longitudinal and intervention-based studies, she has demonstrated how intentional programming, bibliotherapy, and prevention frameworks can positively influence student attitudes, reduce victimization, and enhance school belonging. Her also explore early childhood bullying, using naturalistic observation and multimethod assessment to uncover how aggression emerges and interacts with contextual variables in preschool environments.Microaggressions, inclusion challenges, and academic adjustment. These works offer evidence based insights for fostering equitable learning environments and strengthening support systems within schools and universities. Across her collaborative international projects, she contributes to large scale cross cultural examinations of peer aggression, socio emotional competencies, and student well being.

Profiles:  Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Vlachou, A., Stavroussi, P., Andreou, E., & Toulia, A. The development of the “Checklist for Life Skills Educational Assessment” (CLSEA). Education Sciences.

Touloupis, T., Andreou, E., & Chasapis, D.  Relations among perceived school context-related factors, cyberbullying, and school adjustment: An examination between native and immigrant students in elementary and secondary education.

Didaskalou, E., Cefai, C., Brighi, A., Bravo-Sanzana, M., Bochaver, A., Bauman, S., & Andreou, E.  A global study of the wellbeing of adolescent students during the COVID-19 2020 lockdown.

Junfeng Zhao | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Junfeng Zhao | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Professor | The University of Henan University | China

Prof. Junfeng Zhao is an influential researcher in psychology whose scholarship integrates educational, developmental, health, and social psychology to address learning, adaptation, and mental health among children and adolescents. Across 98 publications, with 1,349 citations and an h-index of 26, his body of work combines rigorous empirical methods, longitudinal designs, and interdisciplinary approaches to investigate resilience, peer attachment, self-esteem, and school adaptation. He emphasizes applied outcomes measurement development, intervention design, and translation to educational practice while advancing theoretical understanding of developmental processes. A major strand of his research focuses on children affected by social disadvantages such as left-behind children, and those with sensory impairments examining risk and protective factors that shape psychological outcomes. Through multi-year tracking studies and psychometric scale evaluation, he has produced validated instruments and intervention-informed findings that clarify how family dynamics, peer relationships, and school contexts contribute to mental health trajectories. This work informs community based strategies and educational policies aimed at improving psychosocial supports for vulnerable groups. In educational psychology, his studies illuminate learning motivation, cognitive styles, learning strategies, and classroom processes, offering practical implications for curriculum design and teacher training. His research addresses early identification models for learning difficulties, the neural correlates of cognitive control and the psychological underpinnings of teacher professional identity and its influence on student well being. The portfolio demonstrates a productive mix of quantitative, qualitative, and neurophysiological methods. Methodologically, Zhao emphasizes mixed methods, longitudinal analyses, culturally sensitive measurement, and robust psychometrics strengthening the reliability and applicability of findings across contexts. His publications consistently bridge theory and practice, targeting educators, clinicians, and policymakers. The cumulative impact of his research lies in deepening understanding of how developmental mechanisms interact with social environments and in providing evidence-based frameworks for interventions that promote resilience and healthy development in children and adolescents. Overall, his work offers actionable frameworks for policy and practice.

Featured Publications

Huang, G., Qian, C., Newman-Norlund, R. D., Zhao, J., & Li, X.  Perceived stigma mediates the relationship between regional gray matter volume and aggressive behavior in children affected by parental.

Ji, L., Yu, Y., Wan, J., Zhang, Y., Zhao, J., & Chen, C. Relationship between cumulative peer risk and sense of security among adolescents: A moderated mediation model. BMC Psychology.

Wan, J., Ji, L., Wang, Z., Zhao, J., & Li, X.  Social exclusion and mental health of youths affected by parental HIV/AIDS in China: Based on a serial mediating model.

Chen, C., Wu, Q., Zhao, J., Zhao, G., Li, X., Du, H., & Chi, P. Enacted stigma influences bereavement coping among children orphaned by parental. A longitudinal study with network analysis.

Wu, J., Li, Q., Chi, P., Zhao, J., & Zhao, J. Mindfulness and well-being among socioeconomically disadvantaged college students: Roles of resilience and perceived discrimination.

Arega Debu | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member

Mr. Arega Debu | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member

Lecturer| The University of  Dire Dawa University | Ethiopia

Mr. Arega Debu an emerging researcher in the fields of thermal engineering, renewable energy systems, and mechanical design. His academic work primarily centers on developing sustainable solutions that address critical resource challenges, with a particular focus on accessible water purification technologies for underserved communities. His master’s research explored solar desalination as a practical and energy-efficient avenue to provide clean water in remote regions. By investigating system performance, thermal behavior, and energy optimization, his work contributes to the broader field of solar-driven water treatment technologies and aligns with global efforts toward sustainable development. His research background also includes mechanical system design, with particular interest in dynamic systems and mobility solutions. Earlier academic projects involving suspension systems demonstrate his strong analytical capabilities, design proficiency, and commitment to engineering innovation. These foundational studies reflect a wider interest in mechanical structures and the integration of engineering principles for improved performance, efficiency, and user-centered design. He possesses strong technical skills that support his research activities, including proficiency in major mechanical engineering software tools such as SolidWorks and ANSYS for simulation, modeling, and design analysis. In addition, his training in computer hardware systems and digital tools enhances his ability to integrate technology-driven approaches into engineering problem-solving. His growing competency in digital productivity tools and technical communication further complements his interdisciplinary research focus. Beyond technical competence, the author maintains an interest in emerging renewable technologies, heat transfer applications, and sustainable engineering solutions. His research vision centers on advancing affordable, practical, and community-oriented engineering innovations particularly those that enhance water security, promote renewable energy adoption, and support long-term socio-economic development. Through continued inquiry and collaboration, he aims to expand contributions to fields such as thermal systems engineering, solar technologies, and applied mechanical design.

Featured Publication

Debu, A. A., Adem, K. D., & Nigussie, S. G. Design and thermal performance investigation of solar-powered water purifying system for Dire Dawa rural area. Solar Energy Advances.