Xu Xinsheng | Strategic HR Management | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Xu Xinsheng | Strategic HR Management | Research Excellence Award

Professor | The University of Shandong University of Aeronautics | China

Prof. Xinsheng Xu is an accomplished scholar whose research sits at the intersection of supply chain management, inventory theory, risk analytics, and quantitative optimization. With 34 academic documents, over 300 citations, and an h-index of 10, his scholarly impact is reflected in both the depth and breadth of his contributions to operations research and management science. His work advances understanding of decision-making under uncertainty, particularly focusing on how risk attitudes such as loss aversion and risk aversion shape procurement and ordering behavior. A significant portion of his research extends classical models such as the newsvendor framework, exploring new dimensions that incorporate backlogging, shortage penalties, fill rate considerations, opportunity loss, and advanced risk measures including Conditional Value-at-Risk. These models offer improved decision-support tools for retailers, suppliers, and logistics managers facing increasingly volatile market environments. Beyond behavioral decision models, his research also encompasses multi sourcing procurement, dual sourcing under emergency conditions, supply option contracts, supplier default risks, and portfolio purchasing strategies. He has developed analytical methods for optimizing procurement in hybrid sourcing systems, considering mismatch costs, spot market dynamics, emergent replenishment strategies, and utility maximizing approaches for risk-sensitive buyers. In parallel, Xinsheng Xu has made influential contributions to optimization theory, including bilevel programming, tri level supply chain models, smoothing techniques for penalty functions, and algorithmic strategies for constrained optimization. These theoretical developments are applied in multi-stage supply chain design, cooperative risk-sharing, and interaction programming problems. His work appears in respected journals such as International Journal of Production Economics, International Journal of Production Research, Annals of Operations Research, Industrial Management & Data Systems, Computers & Industrial Engineering, Mathematics, Discrete Dynamics in Nature and Society, and Numerical Functional Analysis and Optimization.

Featured Publications

Xu, X., Sang, S., & Lee, C. K. M. The optimal ordering decision of a retailer with a spot buying. International Journal of Production Research.

Xu, X., & Lee, C. K. M. Portfolio procurement with an option contract and spot market. International Journal of General Systems.

Sang, S., Xu, X., & Lee, C. K. M. A purchaser’s optimal procurement strategy under emergencies. International Journal of General Systems. Published online.

Tolasa Tamasgen | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member

Assist. Prof. Dr. Tolasa Tamasgen | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member 

Course Instructor and Researcher | The University of Bonga University | Ethiopia

Dr. Tolasa Tamasgen Hirpha, is a dedicated scholar in Condensed Matter optical properties, nanostructures, and computational physics. His academic pathway includes a in Condensed Matter Physics, complemented by strong interdisciplinary grounding through master’s degrees in Physics and Project Management. His research interests bridge fundamental physics and applied materials science, with a particular emphasis on nanocomposites, thin films, electronic structure calculations, and field-enhancement phenomena. His scholarly work demonstrates strong competence in both theoretical modeling and materials characterization. Publications authored or co-authored address critical topics such as the optical and structural behavior of PbS thin films, local field enhancement mechanisms in spheroidal core-shell nanocomposites, nonlinear optical responses, and the impact of interfacial layers on enhancement factors in metal–dielectric systems. He has also contributed to computational investigations of bulk and monolayer using Density Functional Theory, reflecting his ability to apply modern simulation tools to explore electronic and optical properties. Additional interdisciplinary research includes fault-tolerant control systems for electrical machines, highlighting versatility beyond physics-focused domains. Proficient he integrates computational analysis with high-quality scientific documentation. His research strengths include data interpretation, modeling, simulation, and the dissemination of findings through peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations. His academic foundation and research record demonstrate a continuous commitment to advancing materials science, physics-based modeling, and interdisciplinary scientific inquiry. He remains strongly interested in further integrating project management principles into scientific research methodologies to enhance applied outcomes and broaden the real-world impact of theoretical concepts.

Featured Publications

Hirpha, T. T., Gurmesa, G. S., Ali, B. M., & Aga, G. S. Investigation of the electronic and optical properties of bulk and monolayer AlxGa(1−x)N structure using density functional theory.

Chehhat, A., Chouchane, N., Si-Ameur, M., Rebai, B., Larguech, S., Hirpha, T. T., & Menni, Y. Investigation of compressible internal flow mechanisms and thermofluid interactions in centrifugal compressors through advanced hub-to-shroud computational fluid dynamics for diesel engine turbocharger performance.

Bellali, B., Makhloufi, S., Belbekri, T., Alkhafaji, M. A., Hirpha, T. T., Bousserhane, I. K., & Menni, Y. Active fault-tolerant control for asynchronous machines using EKF-based fault estimation and 3-H-bridge inverter mitigation of ITSCs.

Hirpha, T. T., Bergaga, G. D., Ali, B. M., & Gebre, S. S. Investigation of optical bistability in spheroidal core–shell nanocomposites with passive and active dielectric cores.

Hirpha, T. T., Bergaga, G. D., Ali, B. M., & Gebre, S. S.  Local field enhancement factor of spheroidal core–shell nanocomposites with passive and active dielectric cores.

Pascal Vrignat | Learning & Development | Best Academic Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pascal Vrignat | Learning & Development | Best Academic Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr.Pascal Vrignat | The University of Orleans University | France

Dr. Pascal Vrignat is a highly accomplished researcher whose scientific contributions lie at the intersection of operational safety, diagnostics, prognosis, and maintenance strategies for complex systems. His research focuses on the modeling and optimization of system reliability and performance using Markovian and stochastic processes, with particular attention to system obsolescence, shortages, and life-cycle management. He integrates survival laws and Hidden Markov Models  to develop advanced models for remaining useful life prediction and degradation analysis, addressing key challenges in industrial maintenance and decision support. With a strong publication record of 25 scholarly works, 242 citations, and an h-index of 6, Vrignat has established himself as a significant contributor in the fields of industrial systems engineering and intelligent maintenance. His research output includes high-impact journal articles, such as his recent paper, “Contribution to Estimating the Level of Bearing Degradation Using an HMM MultiBranch Approach” which demonstrates a refined methodology for mechanical fault diagnosis and predictive maintenance. His studies consistently bridge theoretical modeling with applied engineering, especially in areas involving industrial computer applications, systems, IoT integration, and digital communication networks. Vrignat’s work extends to the development of AI-driven tools for sustainability and automation, reflecting a broader commitment to advancing the Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing paradigm. His publication, “The Effectiveness of AI: Feedback on the Experience to Counteract Food Waste” (Journal of Sustainability Research, exemplifies his interdisciplinary reach, applying artificial intelligence for societal benefit. Beyond technical innovation, his research promotes practical solutions that enhance reliability, optimize maintenance planning, and extend system longevity.

Featured Publications

Vrignat, P., Avila, M., Duculty, F., Bardet, C., Begot, S., & Marangé, P. Innovative pedagogies for Industry 4.0: Teaching RFID with serious games in a project-based learning environment. Education Sciences.

Vrignat, P., Kratz, F., Avila, M., Duculty, F., Begot, S., & Bardet, J. C. The effectiveness of AI: Feedback on the project to counteract food waste. Journal of Sustainability Research.

Maria Tavares | Accounting & Management | Best Researcher Award

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.

Abdoul Karim Saidou | Conflict Resolution & Mediation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Abdoul Karim Saidou | Conflict Resolution & Mediation | Best Researcher Award

Political science | The University of  Thomas Sankara | Burkina Faso

Dr. Saidou Abdoul Karim is a distinguished political scientist whose research advances critical understanding of governance, democracy, and security in West Africa. His scholarly contributions explore the complex interactions between political regimes, public policy, and state-building in contexts marked by transition, insecurity, and reform. His research is characterized by a comparative and interdisciplinary approach, bridging political science, sociology of public action, and international relations to examine how African states govern through crises and transformation. Central to his work is the analysis of public policy dynamics, particularly in the areas of security and political reform. He investigates how political regimes shape policy agendas, how institutional instruments influence decision making, and how democratic processes are affected by conflict and instability. His studies frequently focus on Burkina Faso, Niger, and the broader Sahel, addressing the tensions between democracy, governance, and security. His research also engages with the regional dimension of African politics, especially through the role of  in promoting democratic norms and managing security challenges. His numerous peer reviewed publications in leading international journals, such as Democratization, Journal of Modern African Studies, Africa Spectrum, and Afrique Contemporaine, reflect a deep engagement with questions of legitimacy, participation, and power. His writings on the securitization of migration, youth involvement in security policies, gender quotas, and the instrumentalization of democracy contribute to a richer understanding of political change in African societies. His book chapters and collaborative works extend his analysis to regional peace and security mechanisms, the political dimensions of diaspora participation, and the governance of armed conflicts. By combining theoretical innovation with empirical depth, his research provides essential insights into how African states and societies negotiate democracy and security. His work stands as a key contribution to contemporary debates on governance, policy reform, and the political future of the Sahel and West Africa.

Featured Publications

Saidou, A. K., & Bagayoko, S. From euphoria to disenchantment: Temporality and the changing local perceptions of international interventions in Mali. Journal of Intervention and Statebuilding.

Naré, R. H., & Saidou, A. K. Understanding public policy through the lens of political regimes: The case of episodic change in agriculture policy in Burkina Faso  Africa Spectrum.

Saidou, A. K., & Honig, L.  Legitimising regimes and legalising self-defence groups: The case of Burkina Faso’s VDPs. The Journal of Modern African Studies

Saidou, A. K.  L’Afrique face au dilemme des deux analyse constructiviste de la politique étrangère à partir des cas du Niger et du Burkina Faso. Canadian Journal of Political Science.

Saidou, A. K., & Bertrand, E. Security as a campaign issue: Programmatic mobilization in Burkina Faso’s elections.

Kofi Obeng | Employee Work Effort | Best Researcher Award

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.

Eustasy Mwamba | Mathematics Education | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Eustasy Mwamba | Mathematics Education | Best Researcher Award

Secondary School Teacher at The University of Copperbelt University | Zambia

Mr. Eustasy Mwamba is an accomplished Zambian educator and researcher specializing in Mathematics Education, currently serving as Head of the Mathematics Department at Muyombe Boarding Secondary School under the Ministry of Education. He is pursuing a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education at the Copperbelt University, where his thesis is under examination, after earning a Master of Science in Mathematics Education  from the same institution, a Bachelor of Arts with Education (Mathematics major, Physical Education Studies minor) from Kwame Nkrumah University, and a Secondary Teachers’ Diploma in Mathematics from Mufulira College of Education . His professional journey spans over fifteen years of teaching and academic leadership, during which he has demonstrated strong competence in curriculum delivery, supervision, and instructional innovation. Mr. Mwamba’s research interests lie in formative assessment practices, student self-efficacy in mathematics, the application of SOLO taxonomy, and the use of rubrics to enhance learning outcomes and performance evaluation. He has authored and co-authored several scholarly works, with multiple manuscripts currently under review in reputable journals focusing on mathematics education and assessment. His research skills are advanced, particularly in data analysis, academic writing, and digital literacy, with proficiency in Microsoft Office, SPSS, NVivo, and educational tools such as Zoom, Teams, and Padlet. Among his notable honors, he was recognized as the Best Graduating Student in his Master’s program at the Copperbelt University in 2018 and received a Teachers’ Day Award in 2015 for excellence, leadership, and dedication to duty. Mr. Mwamba’s scholarly and professional contributions reflect a deep commitment to educational advancement, evidence-based teaching, and continuous improvement. As an emerging researcher, he aspires to expand his impact through innovative pedagogical research, mentorship, and participation in global academic collaborations that promote quality mathematics education across Africa.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Mwamba, E., Shumba, O., & Mulenga, H.  Impacts of formative use of rubrics on secondary school students’ academic performance on quadratic equation problems. Educational Assessment.

Mwamba, E.  Dataset on the impact of rubrics on secondary mathematics self-efficacy in solving quadratic equation problems  Mendeley.

Mwamba, E. The effect of using SOLO taxonomy on secondary mathematical competencies associated with quadratic equations  Mendeley.

Mwamba, E., & Mubila, L. The effects of using assessment rubrics on the assessment and grading of pupils’ conceptual understanding of algebra. World Journal of Vocational Education and Training, .