Stephen Clear | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

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Mr. Stephen Clear | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Director of Postgraduate Taught Programmes (Law) and Lecturer in Constitutional and Administrative Law | The University of  Bangor University | United Kingdom

Mr. Stephen Clear is a public law scholar whose work spans constitutional law, administrative justice, human rights, devolution, and public procurement. His research explores how legal frameworks shape democratic accountability, judicial oversight, and the evolving relationship between citizens and the state. A strong focus of his scholarship has been on the constitutional implications of major political developments such as Brexit, devolution reforms, and the modernisation of public administration across the UK. His published work includes analyses of judicial review trends, empirical evaluations of public procurement disputes, and assessments of the resilience of the UK’s constitutional arrangements. Clear has contributed significantly to understanding how small and medium-sized enterprises engage with public procurement systems, proposing policy reforms to enhance transparency, accessibility, and decision-making. His research has also addressed legal education, including students’ expectations, mooting pedagogies, and the internationalisation of legal study. As a contributor to public-facing legal commentary, he has written extensively on constitutional debates, human rights protections, judicial diversity, and political accountability. His commentary has been widely circulated through national and international media outlets, supporting better public understanding of legal issues. Clear’s commitment to bridging theory and practice is reflected in his presentation of research at major academic conferences and to professional, governmental, and international audiences. His work continues to contribute to contemporary discussions of constitutional reform, public law adjudication, and the development of inclusive, future-focused legal education.

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Featured Publications

Let’s talk: a framework for supporting law students’ wellbeing

– Law Teacher, 2025

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Junfeng Zhao | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

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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.

Djimet Guemona | Archéologie | Best Researcher Award

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 Dr. Djimet Guemona | Archéologie | Best Researcher Award

Attaché de Recherche | The University of Centre National De Recherche Pour Le Developpement | Chad

Dr. Djimet Guemona is a dedicated archaeologist and researcher whose scholarly work focuses on the preservation, analysis, and digital reconstruction of African cultural heritage, particularly in Chad. His academic interests lie at the intersection of traditional archaeological research and emerging digital technologies such as 3D modeling, and artificial intelligence. By combining field-based methodologies with advanced digital tools, Guemona contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of Africa’s ancient metallurgical and artistic traditions, while also promoting innovative approaches to cultural heritage documentation and management. His recent collaborative work, Reconstructing Ancient Iron-Smelting Furnaces of Guéra Through 3D Modeling and AI-Assisted Video Generation, published in Electronics  exemplifies his commitment to interdisciplinary innovation. This research merges archaeological field data with computational modeling to recreate ancient iron-smelting processes, offering valuable insights into the technological sophistication of early African societies. Another key publication, Analyse techno-stylistique de la céramique du pays fanian , published in Afrique  Archéologie & Arts explores stylistic and technological aspects of ceramics, contributing to the understanding of regional cultural identities and material expressions. Guemona’s scholarly output, though emerging, reflects a growing influence in the field of African archaeology. His research has garnered academic recognition with 2 indexed publications, 5 citations, and an h-index of 1. His work stands out for its integration of heritage science, community-based archaeology, and digital preservation techniques, aligning traditional cultural studies with modern technological perspectives. By bridging archaeological theory, field practice, and digital innovation, Guemona is advancing the documentation and safeguarding of African heritage, while fostering global awareness of the continent’s archaeological richness. His research trajectory demonstrates strong potential for continued contributions to both academic scholarship and sustainable heritage management.

Featured Publication

Barreau, J. B., Guemona, D., & Robion-Brunner, C. Reconstructing ancient iron-smelting furnaces of Guéra  through 3D modeling and AI-assisted video generation. Electronics.

Abebe Kassaye | Industrial Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Abebe Kassaye | Industrial Engineering | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate | The University of  Addis Ababa University | Ethiopia

Mr. Abebe Shimelis Kassaye demonstrates exceptional academic depth, analytical rigor, and an applied research orientation that make him a strong contender for this award. His strengths lie in integrating theoretical frameworks with practical industry applications, particularly in the domains of industrial engineering, production systems, and technology based entrepreneurship. His published research in reputable journals showcases innovative use of advanced modeling techniques such as Interpretive Structural Modeling and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling  providing empirical insights into the success factors of Ethiopian technology startups. Mr. Abebe’s ability to synthesize complex interdependencies between business models, operational efficiency, and innovation ecosystems underscores his capacity for multidisciplinary research. His strong command of quality management systems, sustainable industrial development, and lean manufacturing principles reflects a balance between academic excellence and practical impact. Furthermore, his active engagement in professional societies such as the Industrial Engineering and Operations Management Society International strengthens his global outlook and professional network, enhancing his potential to bridge academia and industry effectively. While his accomplishments are commendable, there remain areas of improvement that could further elevate his research influence and professional contribution. Expanding his scholarly output through increased publications in indexed international journals would enhance visibility and citation impact. Developing collaborations with interdisciplinary teams and global research institutions could enrich his research perspectives and foster innovative methodologies. Additionally, gaining experience in consultancy or applied industrial projects would allow him to translate academic findings into tangible outcomes, thereby extending his impact beyond the academic sphere. Strengthening statistical and simulation-based research tools and engaging in data driven policy advisory roles could also enhance the societal relevance of his work. Looking ahead, Mr. Abebe’s future research potential is both promising and strategically significant. His focus on industrial innovation, technology management, and sustainable manufacturing positions him to address emerging challenges in Africa’s industrialization agenda. His research could evolve toward building smart, adaptive production systems integrating artificial intelligence, circular economy principles, and digital transformation strategies.

Featured Publications

Shimelis, A., Beshah, B., & Tesfaye, E.  Measuring successful business models in Ethiopian technology business. African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development.

Shimelis, A., Beshah, B., & Tesfaye, E.  An investigation on the factors influencing the success of Ethiopian tech startup companies: The ISM approach. African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development.

Nasiwat Thanathitiphuwaphat | Learning & Development | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Nasiwat Thanathitiphuwaphat | Learning & Development | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Student | The University of Chulalongkorn University | Thailand

Mr. Nasiwat Thanathitiphuwaphat is a researcher specializing in applied economics, with focused interests in the economics of education, labor economics, and microeconomics. His scholarly work integrates quantitative analysis with a policy-oriented perspective, emphasizing how education and labor systems contribute to equitable and sustainable economic growth. His academic foundation in economics has enabled him to develop research that explores the intersection of individual decision-making, institutional structures, and social outcomes. His published thesis, “Rational Decision-Making Model: AP Micro, AP Macro, A-Level Economics, and IB Economics,” featured in the Journal of Teaching in International Business, provides an innovative framework for understanding economic reasoning in education. The study analyzes how curriculum design and economic learning frameworks influence cognitive behavior and student performance, contributing to the broader literature on education economics and pedagogy. Building on this, his ongoing working papers examine topics such as fair college admissions, educational investment efficiency, and the role of pre-university economics in shaping university outcomes. Collectively, these studies aim to enhance fairness, transparency, and inclusivity within educational and labor systems. In addition to academic research, his work extends to applied economic issues related to labor rights, workforce management, and responsible business conduct. His participation in research and policy dialogues within Southeast Asia reflects a commitment to addressing contemporary challenges surrounding human capital, migration, and labor equity. Employing econometric and data-driven approaches, his research contributes to evidence-based policymaking that supports social and economic inclusion. His research direction is defined by an analytical yet human centered approach, integrating economic modeling with empirical insights. By connecting education, labor, and development economics, his work advances the understanding of how economic principles can be applied to create fairer systems of opportunity and enhance long-term socioeconomic well-being.

Featured Publication

Thanathitiphuwaphat, N., & Tipayalai, K. Rational decision-making model: AP Micro, AP Macro, A-Level Economics, and IB Economics. Journal of Teaching in International Business.

Maria Tavares | Accounting & Management | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Maria Tavares | Accounting & Management | Best Researcher Award

ISCA-UA | The University of Aveiro | Portugal

Dr. Maria da Conceição da Costa Tavares is a distinguished researcher whose academic work centers on sustainability, accounting, and digital transformation within organizational and public sector contexts. Her research integrates social responsibility, governance, and emerging technologies, offering a multidisciplinary perspective on how ethical and digital innovation contribute to sustainable development. With a scholarly output of 21 indexed documents, 203 citations, and an h-index of 5, Dr. Tavares’s publications reflect both productivity and academic influence in the fields of sustainability reporting, financial transparency, and management sciences. Her studies are widely recognized for advancing the discourse on Environmental, Social, and Governance performance, intellectual capital, and the role of artificial intelligence in sustainable accounting practices. Her research portfolio includes articles in peer-reviewed journals such as Administrative Sciences, Sustainability, Journal of Risk and Financial Management, and International Journal of Financial Studies. She has also contributed to international conferences and edited volumes addressing themes such as Audit 5.0, Industry 5.0, and the digital transformation of higher education. Through collaborations with interdisciplinary teams, Dr. Tavares bridges theoretical insights and empirical evidence to enhance accountability and transparency in both private and public organizations. Her bibliometric impact demonstrates a commitment to addressing global challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to responsible production, innovation, and institutional integrity. By connecting sustainability frameworks with emerging digital paradigms, her research continues to inform policy, education, and management practices that prioritize ethical, technological, and societal progress.

Featured Publications

Azevedo, G., Oliveira, J., Almeida, T., Borges, M. F. R., Tavares, M. C., & Vale, J. Determinants of financial risks pre- and post in companies listed on Euronext Lisbon. Journal of Risk and Financial Management.

Azevedo, G., Oliveira, J., Sousa, I., Borges, M. F., Tavares, M. C., & Vale, J.  Disclosure of sustainability information under the Corporate Social Responsibility Directive: The degree of compliance of Portuguese stock index companies. International Journal of Financial Studies.

Michal Kravčík | HR Business Partnering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Michal Kravčík | HR Business Partnering | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | The University of People and Water NGO | Slovakia

Michal Kravčík is a Slovak environmental researcher and hydrologist whose work has profoundly influenced modern thinking on water management, climate restoration, and sustainable regional development. His research centers on the interdependence between water cycles, ecosystems, and climate regulation, forming the foundation of the New Water Paradigm, a globally recognized framework for water and climate recovery. This theory emphasizes retaining rainwater within ecosystems to restore the small water cycle, replenish groundwater, regulate temperatures, and support biodiversity. Kravčík’s approach challenges conventional hydrological models that prioritize drainage and diversion, proposing instead that water restoration is essential to reversing climate degradation and desertification. Kravčík’s initiatives, particularly through the Blue Alternative and People and Water, illustrate how decentralized water management can drive both environmental renewal and community empowerment. His integrated approach demonstrates that water restoration serves as a pathway to ecological stability and economic resilience, especially in regions facing high unemployment and social marginalization. By linking hydrology to social innovation, his work has contributed to broader understandings of participatory governance, sustainability, and climate adaptation. His research publications, including Water for the Recovery of the Climate. A New Water Paradigm , Water for the Third Millennium , Between Floods and Droughts and Water Without Borders provide comprehensive insights into how water retention can serve as both a mitigation and adaptation strategy for climate change. These works have become key references for policymakers, environmentalists, and sustainability researchers worldwide. Kravčík’s research influence is reflected in four major publications, 25 citations, and an h-index of 3. His scholarship continues to inspire global environmental discourse, emphasizing that climate recovery and water restoration are inseparable. By integrating ecological science, community action, and systems thinking, Kravčík’s contributions remain central to shaping sustainable water and climate management.

Featured Publication

Kravcik, M., et al. Costs and benefits of landscape-based water retention measures as nature-based solutions to mitigating climate impacts in eastern Germany, Czech Republic, and Slovakia. Land Degradation & Development.

Kofi Obeng | Employee Work Effort | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Kofi Obeng | Employee Work Effort | Best Researcher Award

Emeritus Professor | The University of  North Carolina A&T State University | United States

Professor K. Obeng, is a highly respected scholar in the fields of transportation economics, logistics, and urban planning, widely recognized for his influential contributions to transportation research and policy analysis. His prolific academic output includes 60 scholarly publications with 523 citations and an h-index of 14, reflecting both the depth and sustained impact of his work on the global research community. Professor Obeng’s research primarily focuses on transportation planning, public transit efficiency, cost optimization, subsidy policy, transport pricing, safety analysis, and productivity measurement in urban transportation systems. His studies have advanced understanding of how economic incentives, regulations, and institutional structures affect the operational efficiency and financial sustainability of public transit systems. Through rigorous quantitative modeling and policy evaluation, his research has provided valuable insights into improving performance, enhancing service quality, and promoting sustainable transportation solutions. His works have been published in numerous high-impact journals, including Transportation Research, Transport Policy, Journal of Air Transport Management, and Administration & Society, contributing to international dialogues on transport management and economics. He has also co-edited influential academic volumes, such as Transit Economics, which explore complex issues surrounding transit subsidies and productivity. Professor Obeng’s interdisciplinary approach bridges economic theory and applied transportation policy, addressing challenges in public transit finance, safety management, and strategic organizational performance. His research has informed transportation policy reforms and supported the advancement of effective, data-driven solutions for modern mobility systems. As a leading figure in transportation research, Professor Obeng’s scholarly legacy continues to influence academic, governmental, and professional communities, reinforcing his position as a key contributor to the evolution of transportation planning and economics in both theory and practice.

Profiles:  Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Obeng, K.  Incentivizing public transit to improve performance to meet the programmatic goal of a funding agency. Public Transport.

Obeng, K. Regulations and factor adjustment in transit systems. Transportmetrica A: Transport Science.

Obeng, K.  Accounting for factors affecting cost and technical inefficiency. Case Studies on Transport Policy.

Obeng, K.  On incentives and optimal effort to improve bus transit performance. Transportation Planning and Technology.

Obeng, K.  Effects of government regulations and input subsidies on cost efficiency: A decomposition approach. Transport Policy.

Konstantinos Kostopoulos | Power and Ambidexterity | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Konstantinos Kostopoulos | Power and Ambidexterity | Best Researcher Award

Professor of at The University of  Piraeus | Greece

Prof. Konstantinos Kostopoulos is a distinguished scholar and academic leader renowned for his significant contributions to the fields of organizational behavior, strategic management, and leadership studies. His research interests encompass purpose-driven leadership, strategy-as-practice, team learning, innovation, and corporate purpose, emphasizing how strategic leaders embed purpose within organizations to drive transformation and sustainability. Demonstrating exceptional research skills in qualitative and mixed-method designs, Prof. Kostopoulos has published 22 influential papers, accrued over 1,541 citations, and achieved an h-index of 13, reflecting both scholarly impact and intellectual depth. His work, including recent studies on the strategic roles of Chief Purpose Officers, exemplifies empirical precision, conceptual rigor, and practical insight. Over the years, he has received numerous honors and recognitions for academic excellence, innovative research, and contributions to management education, positioning him among the thought leaders in his domain. Prof. Kostopoulos’s ongoing commitment to exploring the intersection of purpose, leadership, and strategy continues to inspire new research directions that align with the evolving needs of modern organizations. His scholarly achievements and leadership excellence underscore his suitability for the Best Researcher Award, reflecting a career defined by integrity, innovation, and a lasting contribution to advancing management thought and practice worldwide. Prof. Kostopoulos has advanced theoretical and empirical insights into how firms can align strategic intent with innovation performance. His recent research extends to corporate purpose institutionalization and digital transformation in management, highlighting his commitment to addressing emerging challenges in modern organizations.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

Kostopoulos, K. C. Multiple corporate and functional performance feedback and problemistic search. European Management Review.

Kostopoulos, K. C., Consistent performance feedback and the locus of search. Journal of Management.