Besnik Qehaja | Innovation Strategy | Best Innovation Award

Assist Prof. Dr. Besnik Qehaja | Innovation Strategy | Best Innovation Award

Assist Prof. Dr. Besnik Qehaja, University for Business and Technology, Albania.

Prof. Assoc. Dr. Besnik Qehaja is a leading academic and digital innovation strategist based in Pristina, Kosovo. Currently serving as the Dean of the Computer Science and Engineering Department at UBT College, he is widely recognized for his pioneering work in digital transformation in education and telemedicine. With a PhD from Corvinus University of Budapest and a solid academic foundation in Software Engineering and Telecommunications, he has actively led program accreditations and educational technology implementations. Dr. Qehaja combines technical mastery with strategic vision, spearheading initiatives in AI, IoT, and smart city infrastructure. A dynamic educator and researcher, his leadership has played a crucial role in elevating Kosovo’s higher education sector. Through his contributions to digital pedagogy, LMS systems, and VR/AR in education, he continues to innovate for inclusive, intelligent, and impactful learning ecosystems.

👨‍🏫  Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Dr. Besnik Qehaja’s academic path reflects a strong foundation in digital innovation and educational technology. He earned his Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Engineering with a focus on Computer Networks and Telecommunications, followed by a Master’s degree in Software Engineering and Telecommunications from the University for Business and Technology in Kosovo. His academic excellence culminated in a PhD in Information and Communication Technologies from Corvinus University of Budapest. His doctoral thesis, “The Framework of a Real-Time Patient Monitoring System (Case Study: Kosovo),” focused on telemedicine and real-time data analytics, a pioneering research area that bridges health informatics and AI-driven digital systems. Dr. Qehaja’s academic background positions him uniquely at the intersection of technology, digital education, and healthcare transformation. His lifelong learning journey continues to fuel his innovative approaches in developing e-learning systems, smart educational platforms, and scalable IoT infrastructure for smart cities and intelligent classrooms.

💼 Experience

Dr. Qehaja has a proven track record in both academia and large-scale digital implementation. Since 2009, he has held various senior academic and administrative roles at UBT College, including Lecturer, Program Coordinator, and currently, Dean of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. He played a pivotal role in securing long-term accreditations for Bachelor and Master programs across multiple campuses. As a project leader, he spearheaded digital infrastructure projects such as QR-based student tracking systems, IoT-based smart city platforms, and Learning Management System (LMS) deployments. His role as a Foreign Systems Analyst with M4Health Germany, working on Kosovo’s national e-health feasibility study, demonstrates his cross-sectoral expertise. Notably, Dr. Qehaja has led national-level VR/AR and AI integration projects, significantly advancing Kosovo’s academic digitalization. His project leadership extends to change management, ensuring technological transitions are smooth, strategic, and inclusive for educators and learners alike.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Besnik Qehaja’s research interests span digital transformation, educational technology, telemedicine, IoT applications, AI-driven analytics, and smart learning environments. At the core of his research is the strategic use of technology to enhance real-time decision-making, monitoring, and learning. His doctoral focus on telemedicine has matured into a broader inquiry into health informatics, with particular attention to system interoperability and secure data migration in national health systems. In the educational domain, Dr. Qehaja explores AI for predictive learning models, IoT-enabled connected classrooms, and the development of adaptive learning systems. He also leads research on data privacy, LMS design, and inclusive digital pedagogy. As a technologist and strategist, he is passionate about building intelligent, equitable, and scalable systems that address both human and institutional needs. His current projects involve Smart City IoT eco-platforms and cross-institutional digital integration, contributing impactful research in the European EdTech and eHealth landscapes.

🏆 Awards & Distinctions

Dr. Qehaja’s leadership in technology-enabled education and system innovation has earned him widespread recognition. He successfully led his faculty through national accreditation processes for both Bachelor’s and Master’s programs—an achievement that secured 5-year accreditation in both Pristina and Prizren. He also served as the head of Kosovo’s eHealth feasibility study implementation, a landmark initiative involving Germany’s M4Health and the Ministry of Health. His efforts were pivotal in laying the digital groundwork for national-level healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, Dr. Qehaja is a certified Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality trainer by EON Reality, where he trained faculty and implemented immersive learning in education. He has received internal awards for excellence in curriculum design, project leadership, and contributions to digital pedagogy at UBT College. With several international conference roles and advisory board positions, his career has been marked by a consistent commitment to innovation, collaboration, and digital inclusion.

📚 Publication Top Notes

Mental health among adults during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown: a cross-sectional multi-country comparison

Physical activity among adults residing in 11 countries during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown

Application of biometric models of authentication in mobile equipment

Enterprise technology architecture solution for eHealth system and implementation strategy

Challenges and lessons learned during private 5g open ran deployments

Enterprise integration, networking and virtual communications

Comparision of maturity model frameworks in information security and their implementtation

Image Analysis of Water Level using Remote Sensing

Framework for real-time monitoring E-Health systems

Mathematical Modeling and Statistical Evaluation of the Security–Performance Trade-Off in IoT Cloud Architectures: A Case Study of UBT Smart City

Hassan Mousa | Sustainability Strategies | Best Paper Award

Dr. Hassan Mousa | Sustainability Strategies | Best Paper Award

Dr. Hassan Mousa, Jeddah international College, Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Hassan Mosa 🇱🇧, born in 1980, is a distinguished Lebanese academic and sustainability consultant with a global footprint in finance and education. Currently serving as a lecturer and head of the Postgraduate Unit at Jeddah International College, Dr. Mosa combines academic excellence with practical expertise. His extensive teaching portfolio spans institutions such as Lambton College (Canada), Dar Al-Hekma, and the University of Business and Technology (UBT). He is also a renowned consultant, advising global firms like Arthur D. Little, BCG, and Leoron on ESG and sustainability strategies. With a diverse career that blends academia, corporate leadership, and policy consultation, Dr. Mosa has made significant contributions to initiatives under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. His dynamic blend of academic leadership and hands-on experience makes him a thought leader in finance, sustainability, and strategic management, admired for his integrity, depth of knowledge, and visionary outlook.

👨‍🎓 Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Hassan Mosa holds a Ph.D. in Accounting and Sustainability (2021) from the University of West England 🇬🇧, emphasizing the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into financial practices. He also earned a Master’s degree in Finance (MSc) with Distinction from Oxford Brookes University in 2014, where his thesis focused on the motivations behind mergers and acquisitions. His academic excellence has been consistently recognized, including his achievement as a Certified Financial Specialist (CFE) in the UK, where he ranked first in 2013 with a 94% score 🏅. Fluent in English, Arabic, and French, Dr. Mosa is also proficient in statistical and accounting tools such as SPSS, Oracle, Peachtree, and Sage. His educational background reflects a solid foundation in finance, strategic decision-making, and international accounting systems, well-suited to both teaching and consultancy roles globally.

💼 Experience

Dr. Mosa brings over two decades of multifaceted experience across academia, government projects, and international consulting. As a lecturer at Jeddah International College and former instructor at institutions such as UBT, Dar Al-Hekma, and Lambton College (Canada), he has taught courses spanning corporate finance, sustainability reporting, investments, and supply chain finance 📚. He served as Assistant Director for global programs in partnership with Harvard University (2014–2015), focusing on SMART cities and affordable housing. His consulting roles have spanned ministries and major corporations including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, GOSI, Maaden, and UAE’s Ministry of Economics. He has also delivered over 40 training programs in both Arabic and English for entities like PepsiCo and Saudi banks. Earlier in his career, he held the position of Chief Accountant at Procter & Gamble (1997), giving him a firm grounding in corporate finance. His career reflects a seamless blend of leadership, innovation, and cross-sector impact 🌍.

🔬 Research Interest

Dr. Mosa’s research interests revolve around sustainability accounting, ESG integration, strategic finance, international financial reporting standards (IFRS), and public-private budgeting models 🔍. His work explores the practical application of sustainability concepts in corporate and governmental finance, particularly in emerging economies. He actively contributes to national transformation programs such as Saudi Vision 2030 through financial digitalization, Kaizen budgeting, and inclusive economic policies. Passionate about aligning financial systems with long-term value creation, his research delves into innovative budgeting frameworks, sustainable investments, and the socio-economic impact of financial governance. He is deeply interested in how sustainability reporting can reshape decision-making in both the public and private sectors. By mentoring future financial leaders and advising global firms, Dr. Mosa combines theory with practice, reinforcing his belief in finance as a tool for inclusive development and responsible governance ♻️📊.

🏆 Awards and Recognition

Dr. Hassan Mosa’s academic and professional journey is marked by significant recognitions and achievements. His top-ranking status as a Certified Financial Specialist (CFE) in the United Kingdom in 2013, scoring 94%, attests to his deep knowledge and mastery of financial practices 🥇. His Ph.D. and master’s degrees from reputable UK institutions, combined with his global teaching and consulting engagements, reflect sustained excellence. As a consultant for leading corporations like BCG and Arthur D. Little, he is highly regarded for his ESG strategies and budgeting reforms. He was also selected to co-lead international programs affiliated with Harvard School, showcasing global recognition of his expertise. His thought leadership in sustainability has earned him invitations to deliver specialized training for ministries, multinational corporations, and policy institutions. With over 20 citations and 10+ peer-reviewed international publications, Dr. Mosa is not just a seasoned practitioner but also a respected scholar in sustainability accounting and strategic finance 🌟📖.

📚 Publication Top Notes

Integrating ESG Reporting in Middle Eastern Public Finance

 Digitalization of Financial Systems: Case Study from Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

 Budgetary Reform Using Kaizen in Healthcare Systems.

 IFRS Adoption in Gulf Countries: Challenges and Opportunities. Middle East Accounting Studies.

 Merger Motivations and Financial Health: A Comparative Analysis. International Journal of Finance and Economics.

Cornelia Storz | Strategy Formulation | Best Paper Award

Prof Dr. Cornelia Storz | Strategy Formulation | Best Paper Award

Prof Dr. Cornelia Storz, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany.

Prof. Dr. Cornelia Storz is a tenured full professor and Chair of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Goethe University Frankfurt’s Faculty of Economics and Business. With prior professorships in Japanese Economy and Society at Philipps University Marburg and University of Applied Sciences Bremen, Dr. Storz bridges academia and global business perspectives. She earned her Ph.D. in Economics (Dr. rer. oec.) in 1996 from the University of Duisburg‑Essen, following an M.A. in Business Administration & Japanese Studies from the University of Bonn in 1992. Over her career, she has led 20+ completed and 10+ ongoing research projects, published 35 journal articles, and authored 13 books. Her work has garnered a citation index of 1,044, with an h-index of 18 and i10-index of 23. She serves as co-guest editor for Research Policy and maintains rich collaborations with leading international scholars—spanning Oxford, Tokyo, Singapore, Paris, Seoul, and beyond.

👩‍🏫  Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Storz’s academic journey began with a Master of Arts in Business Administration and Japanese Studies from the University of Bonn (1992), reflecting her interdisciplinary grounding in management sciences and cross-cultural insights. She earned her Ph.D. in Economics (Dr. rer. oec.) at the University of Duisburg‑Essen in 1996, where she developed rigorous research skills in strategic management, innovation, and economic systems. This strong educational background laid the foundation for her impactful contributions to international research and teaching, and positioned her as a leader capable of analyzing complex innovation landscapes in Japan, Korea, Europe, and emerging economies.

💼 Experience

Since 2007, Dr. Storz has held the professorship and Chair of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Goethe University’s Faculty of Economics and Business, Department of Management & Microeconomics. Before that, she was a full professor specializing in Japanese Economy at Philipps University Marburg (2001–2006), and at the University of Applied Sciences Bremen (1997–2001). From 1992 to 1996, she worked as a research assistant at the University of Duisburg‑Essen. Across these roles, she has supervised doctoral students, designed postgraduate curricula, and led strategic projects. She actively shapes international research networks and provides expert consultancy in innovation policy, organizational strategy, and digital transformation across academia and industry.

 🔬 Research Interest

Dr. Storz’s research centers on strategic management of innovation, firm adaptation in crisis contexts, and the emergence of new industries. She investigates topics such as labour-cost retrenchment strategies, digital innovation ecosystems, board governance’s impact on innovation, and design knowledge flows in product development. Her collaborative projects examine digital marketplaces in Sub‑Saharan Africa, optimal distinctiveness in Korean film, and entrepreneurial networks at the base-of-pyramid. She is particularly interested in how firms construct innovation policy practices that align with national and local systems, and how crisis strategies—from flexible to rigid—affect investor behavior and firm resilience.

 🏆 Awards & Honors

Dr. Storz has been nominated for several prestigious international awards in strategic management and business strategy, and recognized for excellence in innovation research. Her prolific output—including 35 journal articles, 13 books, and numerous editorial roles—has earned her a global citation index above 1,000, with an h-index of 18 and i10-index of 23. She has been co-guest editor for special issues in top-tier journals, including Research Policy. These accolades reflect peer recognition of her leadership in examining the strategic dimensions of innovation, crisis response, and cross-national economic systems, marking her a strong contender for awards such as the Best Paper Award.

📚 Publication Top Notes

Labour-cost retrenchment strategies in times of crisis: Comparing market reactions to flexible and rigid strategies

Digital creatives and digital engineers: entrepreneurial firms, institutional context, and the organization of innovation

The emergence of an entrepreneurial ecosystem: the interplay between early entrepreneurial activity and public policy in the Korean online gaming industry

Why do some entrepreneurs thrive? A network content perspective

PGregg Caruso | Strategic Management and Business Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Gregg Caruso | Strategic Management and Business Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Gregg Caruso, Fairfield University, United States.

Prof. Gregg D. Caruso is an internationally recognized philosopher and ethicist specializing in applied ethics, free will, punishment, and neuroethics. Currently serving as the Professor of Applied Ethics and Director of the Patrick J. Waide Center for Applied Ethics at Fairfield University, he also holds the position of Honorary Professor of Philosophy at Macquarie University in Australia. With a career spanning over two decades, Caruso has made seminal contributions to moral philosophy and public policy through his prolific writing and thought leadership. His commitment to public discourse is evident in his interdisciplinary work that bridges philosophy, neuroscience, law, and ethics. He is well-regarded for his advocacy of justice reform based on scientific understanding of human behavior, challenging traditional notions of moral responsibility and retributive punishment. Through his books, public engagements, and academic leadership, Caruso continues to shape contemporary ethical thought with clarity, compassion, and a deeply rooted concern for social justice. 🌍📚

👨‍🏫 Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education Background

Prof. Caruso’s academic journey is grounded in rigorous philosophical training and a passion for ethical inquiry. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy from the City University of New York Graduate Center in 2011, with earlier degrees including a M.Phil. in Philosophy (2002) from the same institution, a B.A. in Philosophy (1996) from William Paterson University, and an A.A.S. in Music (1995) from Nassau Community College. His education blends analytical depth with a rich appreciation for the arts and humanities, laying a solid foundation for his later work in ethical theory, neuroscience, and the philosophy of law. Caruso’s advanced training at one of the world’s largest graduate centers exposed him to interdisciplinary scholarship, fostering his unique approach that integrates neuroscience and ethics. This diverse educational background enables him to bridge the gap between abstract philosophical debate and pressing real-world ethical challenges. 🎓📖🧠

👨‍💼 Professional Experience

Prof. Caruso’s academic and administrative leadership is distinguished and comprehensive. He began as a Graduate Teaching Fellow at Brooklyn College (2000–2003) and held early positions at John Jay College and Brooklyn College before joining SUNY Corning in 2006. Rising through the ranks, he became a SUNY Distinguished Professor and later transitioned to Fairfield University in 2024, where he now leads the Patrick J. Waide Center for Applied Ethics. His international influence includes roles as Honorary Professor at Macquarie University and visiting appointments at Northeastern University London and the University of Aberdeen. Caruso also served as department chair at SUNY Corning, showcasing leadership in curriculum development and ethical programming. His career reflects a deep engagement with both classroom teaching and scholarly research, with contributions that shape global debates on justice, free will, and ethics. His commitment to academic excellence and social impact underscores his standing as a respected scholar and educator. 🌐📘🎓

🧠 Research Interests

Prof. Caruso’s research revolves around applied ethics, moral responsibility, free will, punishment theory, neurolaw, and the philosophy of mind. His influential theory of free will skepticism challenges retributive justice by arguing that individuals are not morally responsible in the traditional sense due to the lack of free will, a position grounded in neuroscience and moral psychology. He also explores business ethics, public health ethics, and environmental ethics, addressing how systemic and social determinants affect behavior and moral outcomes. Caruso is pioneering in advocating non-retributive models of criminal justice that focus on prevention, rehabilitation, and social welfare. His current research, including his in-progress book “Putting People Before Profit”, extends his ethical analysis into corporate responsibility and economic justice. His intellectual breadth enables him to work across disciplines and influence policy, education, and law with philosophical rigor and empirical sensitivity. 🧬⚖️📖

🏆 Awards & Distinctions

Prof. Caruso has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his research excellence and scholarly impact. In 2024, he was named SUNY Distinguished Professor, an honor granted to those with national or international academic prominence. His book Rejecting Retributivism won the 2022 APA Joseph B. Gittler Award for outstanding contributions in the philosophy of social sciences. He has been awarded two sabbaticals, multiple research stipends, and institutional grants from Fairfield University, SUNY Corning, Cornell, and the University of Aberdeen. His successful organization of the Justice Without Retribution Conference series highlights his collaborative leadership. He also received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Scholarship in 2015 and the Teaching Excellence Award in 2012. These accolades affirm Caruso’s stature as a leading thinker in ethics and philosophy, whose work influences both academic circles and public discourse. 🏅📜🌟

📚 Selected Publications

The Land That Time Forgot? Planetary Health and the Criminal Justice System

Event-Causal Libertarianism, Indeterministic Weightings, and the Pragmatic Approach

Free will skepticism and its implications: the case for optimism

Précis of Rejecting Retributivism: Free Will, Punishment, and Criminal Justice

Retributivism, Free Will Skepticism, and the Public Health-Quarantine Model: Replies to Kennedy, Walen, Corrado, Sifferd, Pereboom, and Shaw

Why We Should Reject Semiretributivism and Be Skeptics about Basic Desert Moral Responsibility

Why We Should Reject Semiretributivism and Be Skeptics about Basic Desert Moral Responsibility: A Reply to John Martin Fischer

Punishment and desert

Moral Responsibility Skepticism

Xiaorong Zhou | Innovation and Technology Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaorong Zhou | Innovation and Technology Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaorong Zhou, Guiyang University, China.

Dr. Zhou Xiaorong is a forward-thinking researcher specializing in innovation-driven strategies for modern manufacturing processes. 🎓 As a dynamic academic voice in the fields of advanced materials and smart machining, Zhou has continuously explored how evolving technologies reshape industrial capabilities. Her interdisciplinary approach combines theoretical research with practical applications, with a focus on machining performance, material behavior, and surface engineering. As a first author in several high-impact journals, Zhou has contributed significantly to the understanding of brittle damage in cutting tools and advanced lubrication systems in metal machining. ✨ Through a synergy of simulation techniques and experimental validation, her work sets the tone for the next generation of manufacturing technologies. Her research has gained international attention, positioning her as an emerging leader in the fields of advanced manufacturing and material innovation. 🌐

👩‍🔬 Profile

Google scholar

🎓 Education Background

Dr. Zhou Xiaorong has established a strong academic foundation in the field of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. 🛠️ With a focus on advanced numerical modeling, finite element analysis, and computer-aided simulations, she cultivated her expertise in top-tier institutions known for their technical rigor. Her postgraduate journey centered around precision engineering and computational mechanics, allowing her to bridge the gap between theory and practice. 📚 Her academic training empowered her with deep insights into alloy behavior, thermofluid dynamics, and smart materials, laying the groundwork for her multidisciplinary research. 🧠 As a result, she can adeptly combine principles of design, optimization, and sustainability in machining strategies, which are vital for future-oriented innovation and industrial competitiveness. 🚀

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Zhou Xiaorong brings robust experience in advanced manufacturing and computational research. 🧪 Her work has predominantly focused on microstructure evolution, machining simulation, and cutting tool performance. Through collaborations with leading engineers and cross-functional researchers, she has spearheaded several experimental and simulation-based studies on Ti-6Al-4V alloy machining, a challenging material in aerospace and biomedical fields. ✈️⚙️ She utilizes FE (Finite Element) and CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) techniques to enhance process reliability and tool design. In addition, Zhou has been instrumental in developing models to predict brittle tool damage and fluid–solid interactions during machining, leading to industry-relevant insights. Her work not only reflects technical expertise but also a vision for transformative manufacturing systems. 🏭

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Zhou Xiaorong’s research explores the intersection of intelligent manufacturing and material innovation. 🔍 Her primary interests include multiscale modeling, thermo-mechanical behavior of alloys, minimal quantity lubrication (MQL) techniques, and tool surface texturing. She is particularly drawn to the integration of Finite Element and Cellular Automata (FE-CA) models to simulate microstructure evolution during machining. 🧩 Zhou’s work aims to reduce material waste, improve tool lifespan, and enhance machining efficiency—all while supporting sustainable manufacturing goals. 🌱 Her commitment to simulating complex surface interactions and exploring thermophysical fluid dynamics in metal cutting operations reflects her drive to develop smarter, cleaner, and more efficient production methods. 💡

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Dr. Zhou Xiaorong has earned significant recognition in her field for pioneering work in intelligent cutting systems and simulation-based process optimization. 🏅 Her publications in top Q1 and Q2 journals reflect both academic rigor and technological relevance. With numerous citations and collaborations, Zhou’s work is increasingly influencing how industries and researchers approach tool design and lubrication strategies. She has received acknowledgments from institutional research bodies and conference panels for her innovative use of coupled simulations and her insights into tool degradation mechanisms. 🧠 Her efforts contribute to the global discourse on sustainable and intelligent manufacturing solutions. 🌍

📚 Selected Publications

Grain refining mechanism in the Al/Al–Ti–B system

Effects of alloying elements in anodizing of aluminium

Corrosion of AA2024-T3 Part II: Co-operative corrosion

Release of silver and copper nanoparticles from polyethylene nanocomposites and their penetration into Listeria monocytogenes

Durability and corrosion of aluminium and its alloys: overview, property space, techniques and developments

Quantification of oxide film thickness at the surface of aluminium using XPS

Corrosion behaviour of friction stir welded AA7108 T79 aluminium alloy

Observations of intergranular corrosion in AA2024-T351: The influence of grain stored energy

Corrosion of AA2024-T3 part III: propagation

Film formation and detachment during anodizing of Al–Mg alloys

Qinyuan Zhang | Sustainability strategies | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Qinyuan Zhang | sustainability strategies | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Qinyuan Zhang, City university of Macau, China.

Dr. Zhang Qinyuan is an emerging scholar specializing in Green Supply Chain Management, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and Enterprise Digital Transformation 🌱💼. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Business Administration at the City University of Macau (2022.09–2025.06), building on her solid academic foundation and international experiences. Zhang’s dedication to impactful research is evident in her contributions to high-impact SSCI journals, where she has served as both first and second author alongside distinguished supervisors. Her work focuses on qualitative and comparative analysis methods, aimed at advancing sustainability practices within manufacturing and hospitality industries. 📊🌍 With prior academic exposure from RMIT University and Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, she brings a unique interdisciplinary lens to management science. She is proficient in academic writing, data analysis, and cross-cultural research collaboration, making her a valuable contributor to today’s dynamic business environment. ✍️📚

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Zhang Qinyuan holds an academically diverse and international background 🎓🌐. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration at the City University of Macau (2022.09–2025.06), where she is also involved in management systems and operations management as a Teaching Assistant. Previously, she earned her Master of Project Management from RMIT University (2019.09–2021.12), where she gained essential skills in project lifecycle control and strategic planning. Her educational journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing, and Automation from Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University (2014.09–2018.06), laying the groundwork for her interest in sustainable manufacturing. 🎯📚 Zhang also participated in academic exchanges, including a stint at National Dong Hwa University in Taiwan (2015.09–2016.03) and Zhejiang University’s International Program (2021.06–2021.08), expanding her global outlook on research and innovation. ✈️🧠

💼 Experience

Dr. Zhang Qinyuan has cultivated a versatile academic and research career focused on advancing sustainable business practices 💼🌍. She currently serves as a Teaching Assistant at the City University of Macau, where she supports courses in Management Consulting Systems and Operations Management (2023–2025). Her role involves curriculum support, academic mentoring, and research facilitation. She also contributed significantly to the Macao Foundation Research Project on green supply chain configurations in the Greater Bay Area, overseeing data collection and report development 📝📈. Zhang’s professional exposure extends beyond borders—through academic exchanges and collaborative research initiatives at institutions like Zhejiang University and National Dong Hwa University, she developed strong capabilities in Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), SPSS, Stata, and Nvivo. Her hands-on experience in both teaching and field research equips her to tackle real-world business sustainability issues with analytical depth and practical insight. 🧪💡

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Zhang Qinyuan’s research interests lie at the intersection of Green Supply Chain Management, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Enterprise Digital Transformation 🌿📲. She explores how organizations, particularly in manufacturing and hospitality, can transition toward sustainable operations using innovative frameworks and qualitative methods. Her expertise in fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) allows her to evaluate multiple pathways and configurations that drive successful implementation of green strategies 🌐⚙️. She also examines extended producer responsibility (EPR), end-of-life vehicle sustainability, and closed-loop supply chain models under dual uncertainty. Zhang is passionate about translating academic theories into actionable strategies for enterprises facing digital transformation challenges. With strong command of both quantitative and qualitative tools—like SPSS, Nvivo, and Stata—her research aims to support evidence-based decision-making in global supply networks. 📚🔍

🏆 Awards & Achievements

Dr. Zhang Qinyuan’s dedication to excellence has earned her key academic and research achievements 🏅📊. She is a co-researcher in a Macao Foundation-funded project (MF2309) titled “Research on Configurational Drivers of Green Supply Chain Management Implementation in the Hotel Industry of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area” (2023.09–2024.09). Her contribution—ranging from qualitative data collection to report drafting—reflects her leadership in research operations. She has also actively participated in international academic programs at Zhejiang University, showcasing her commitment to interdisciplinary growth and internationalization 🌐. As a Teaching Assistant at City University of Macau, she was recognized for her support in teaching and project execution. Zhang’s publications under review at high-impact journals further establish her as a rising scholar in sustainable management. Her award-worthy research activities aim to bridge the gap between environmental responsibility and business performance. 🧠🎖️

📚 Publication Top Notes

Multi-factor Driving Paths of Green Supply Chain Management Implementation in Leading Manufacturers: A Fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis.

Exploring the Driving Factors for Green Supply Chain Management in the Hotel Industry: A fsQCA Approach.

Simulation Analysis of “Old for New” Remanufacturing in Closed-Loop Supply Chains.

Co-evolution Mechanism of Green Supply Chain Management: Multi-driver Perspective.

Improving Sustainability of ELVs: Extended Producer Responsibility in China. (Transportation Journal, IF 1.1, SSCI) 

Wissam Ghusn | Obesity and Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wissam Ghusn | Obesity and Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wissam Ghusn | Boston Medical Center | United States.

Dr. Wissam Ghusn, M.D. 🇺🇸 is an Internal Medicine resident at Boston University Medical Center and an accomplished researcher in gastroenterology and obesity medicine. With clinical training from the Mayo Clinic and medical education from the American University of Beirut, Dr. Ghusn combines clinical care with translational research to drive better outcomes in metabolic diseases. 🧬 As a former postdoctoral fellow and ongoing collaborator at the Mayo Clinic, he works on cutting-edge trials targeting diabetes remission and obesity treatment. 🧠 Known for his compassionate care and scientific rigor, he’s a proud member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. 🎖️ His work has been recognized with numerous national awards and featured in top gastroenterology conferences such as DDW and ACG. ✨ Dr. Ghusn is also deeply engaged in healthcare equity, contributing to student-led initiatives that deliver free care to underserved communities. 🌍

👨‍⚕️ Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Dr. Ghusn’s academic journey 🌟 is built on a foundation of excellence and service. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) 🎓 from the American University of Beirut Medical Center in 2021, following a Bachelor’s degree in Biology (2017) from the American University of Beirut, where he graduated with a 4.0 GPA and high distinction. 📘 His scientific curiosity led him to pursue a Certificate in Clinical and Translational Science Research from Mayo Clinic in 2023, where he deepened his expertise in bridging bench and bedside. 🔬 His schooling began at Amjad High School in Beirut, where he completed his Lebanese Baccalaureate in Life Sciences in 2014. 📚 Throughout his education, Dr. Ghusn demonstrated not just academic brilliance, but also a commitment to leadership, mentoring, and advocacy. 💼

💼 Experience

Dr. Ghusn brings diverse experience across clinical medicine, translational research, and health equity. 🏥 He is a PGY-2 Internal Medicine resident at Boston Medical Center (2023–present), while also serving as a Postdoctoral Research Collaborator at Mayo Clinic. 🔍 His earlier tenure as a Postdoctoral Fellow (2021–2023) focused on obesity and diabetes research, mentored by Dr. Andres Acosta. 💡 At AUBMC, he coordinated randomized controlled trials and mentored students. 🎯 He is the Guest Editor for a 2025 Biomedicine journal special issue on obesity-related GI disorders. 📖 Outside academia, Dr. Ghusn led numerous healthcare access initiatives for marginalized communities through HEAL and CARE clinics. 🌈 He also served key leadership roles within IFMSA and student government, showcasing his ability to blend scientific inquiry with humanistic advocacy. 🤝

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Ghusn’s research is at the intersection of obesity, diabetes, bariatric surgery, and gastrointestinal health. ⚖️ He is Principal Investigator on a randomized weight loss trial at BMC and a Research Scholar with the Framingham Heart Study, focusing on MASLD and cardiometabolic risk. ❤️ His work has helped develop tools like the Diabetes Remission Index (DRI) and has studied the real-world effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide, tirzepatide) in obese and diabetic patients. 💉 He is particularly focused on health equity in clinical trials and racial disparities in gastrointestinal cancer research. 📊 His passion lies in turning metabolic science into measurable outcomes for diverse populations. 🌎 Dr. Ghusn’s rigorous research, grounded in compassion and precision, aims to shape a healthier, more inclusive future. 🧠

🏆 Awards

Dr. Ghusn’s achievements reflect both scientific excellence and compassionate care. 💫 He won the Outstanding Poster Presenter Award 🖼️ at ACG 2024 and the Top Oral Presentation Award 🗣️ at BMC Evans Research Day. He’s a two-time Presidential Poster Award 🥇 winner (ACG 2023), Best Oral Presentation in Clinical Research 🏅 at Mayo MRFA 2023, and Top Bariatric Poster 🎖️ at Obesity Week 2023. His abstracts have earned Newsworthy Abstract Awards 📰 and AGA Fellow Abstract Awards for both plenary and health disparities research at DDW. His induction into the Gold Humanism Honor Society 💛 celebrates his patient-centered approach. Each award signifies a blend of heart and intellect, commitment and compassion. 🌟

📚 Publication Top Notes

HeeJin Kim | Business-level Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Ms. HeeJin Kim | Business-level Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Ms. HeeJin Kim, Kyungpook National University, South Korea.

Ms. HeeJin Kim is a passionate and dedicated Master’s student at Kyungpook National University, specializing in Ecological Science. 🌿 With a foundational background in Biology and Chemistry from Changwon National University, she has embarked on a journey to explore the intricate mechanisms of ecological interactions, particularly focusing on honeybee physiology. 🐝 As an emerging researcher, HeeJin’s early academic pursuits reflect her commitment to understanding the effects of environmental agents on insect biology. Despite being in the early stages of her career, she has already made her mark with a scientific publication and is determined to continue contributing to ecological toxicology and environmental biology through research and innovation. Her enthusiasm for uncovering the unseen impacts of miticides on Apis mellifera showcases both scientific curiosity and a vision for ecological conservation. 🌎✨

👤 Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Ms. HeeJin Kim pursued her Bachelor of Science in Biology at the Department of Biology and Chemistry, Changwon National University, where she developed a strong foundation in the life sciences. 📘 During her undergraduate years, she cultivated an interest in entomology and ecological systems, particularly the interactions between chemical agents and insect physiology. She is currently enrolled in a Master’s program in Ecological Science at Kyungpook National University, South Korea. 📚 Her academic pathway has equipped her with theoretical and practical skills necessary for environmental and biological research. HeeJin’s commitment to ecological awareness, sustainability, and species preservation aligns perfectly with her academic goals. She is continuously broadening her expertise through fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and scientific literature review, aiming to become a proficient researcher in ecological toxicology and conservation biology. 🌱🎓

🧪 Experience

Ms. HeeJin Kim is currently at the beginning of her research journey, her practical academic training as a Master’s student has already allowed her to gain hands-on experience in ecological science. 🔍 Her current research focuses on understanding physiological changes in Apis mellifera (honeybees) caused by miticides—a subject that is both timely and crucial in the field of environmental toxicology. 🐝 Her experience is embedded in rigorous data collection, analytical techniques, and hypothesis-driven inquiry. While she does not yet have completed consultancy or industry projects, she is actively engaging in scholarly activities that build a strong foundation for future collaborative research and innovation. She remains involved in lab-based research, experimental design, and literature synthesis, positioning herself to evolve into a leading scientist in entomological and environmental studies. 🧬👩‍🔬

🔍 Research Interests

Ms. HeeJin Kim’s research interests lie at the intersection of ecotoxicology and insect physiology, with a primary focus on the impact of miticides on Apis mellifera (honeybees). 🐝 Her academic curiosity is driven by the urgent need to assess how commonly used chemical agents affect vital pollinators, which play a critical role in biodiversity and agriculture. 🌾🌸 She is particularly fascinated by the subtle physiological changes and toxicity responses that these substances can trigger, potentially influencing bee health and colony survival. Her goal is to expand our understanding of anthropogenic impacts on beneficial insect species, contributing to strategies for sustainable pesticide use and pollinator protection. By combining laboratory experiments with ecological theory, HeeJin hopes to advocate for science-informed environmental policy and agricultural practices. Her work aligns closely with global efforts to preserve ecosystems amid increasing chemical exposure. 🌎🔬

🏆 Awards

Ms. HeeJin Kim has not yet received formal awards, she is currently a strong candidate for recognition in early-career researcher categories such as the “Best Researcher Award” due to her promising work in ecological science. 🎖️ Her early academic contributions and her publication in a peer-reviewed journal highlight her potential as a future leader in her field. Her passion, coupled with a strong research ethic, reflects the qualities of a commendable young scientist. 🧠🌟 HeeJin is committed to advancing knowledge in insect toxicology and remains engaged with academic communities and award platforms that spotlight innovation, scientific rigor, and environmental awareness. She actively seeks opportunities to present her findings and looks forward to being acknowledged for her efforts in ecological preservation and scientific discovery. 🥇📈

📚 Publication 

Gene expression profiles in dead honeybee, Apis mellifera, after miticide exposure

Gregg Caruso | Leadership in Business | Academic Leadership in Business Strategy Award

Prof Dr. Gregg Caruso | Leadership in Business | Academic Leadership in Business Strategy Award

Prof Dr. Gregg Caruso, Fairfield University, United States.

Dr. Gregg D. Caruso is an American philosopher and scholar widely recognized for his work in free will, punishment, moral responsibility, and applied ethics. He currently serves as Professor of Applied Ethics and Director of the Patrick J. Waide Center for Applied Ethics at Fairfield University, as well as Honorary Professor of Philosophy at Macquarie University in Australia. Caruso is internationally known for promoting the “public health-quarantine model” as a humane, evidence-based alternative to retributive punishment. He has held teaching and administrative positions at SUNY Corning Community College, Northeastern University London, and the University of Aberdeen, among others. He frequently lectures worldwide and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects addressing ethics, neurolaw, and justice reform. With over two decades of teaching and scholarship, Dr. Caruso’s leadership in the field has influenced contemporary debates across law, psychology, and neuroscience. 🧠📚🌍 His vision is rooted in compassion, prevention, and systemic transformation over blame and retribution.

👨‍🏫 Profile

Googlescholar

🎓 Education & Academic Experience

Gregg D. Caruso earned his Ph.D. (2011) and M.Phil. (2002) in Philosophy from the City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate Center. Prior to that, he completed a B.A. in Philosophy from William Paterson University (1996) and an A.A.S. in Music from Nassau Community College (1995). His academic career spans nearly two decades, starting as a Graduate Teaching Fellow at Brooklyn College (2000–2003) and later as a Writing Fellow at John Jay College of Criminal Justice (2003–2005). He was appointed Assistant Professor at Brooklyn College (2005–2006) and SUNY Corning (2006–2012), where he rose to Associate and then Full Professor before becoming SUNY Distinguished Professor in 2024. Dr. Caruso also served as Chair of Humanities and Social Sciences at SUNY Corning. Currently, he is Professor of Applied Ethics at Fairfield University and continues as an Honorary Professor at Macquarie University. 🎓👨‍🏫📘 His diverse roles reflect deep commitment to teaching, ethics, and public service.

🧠 Research Interests

Dr. Gregg D. Caruso’s research spans multiple areas in philosophy and ethics, with a central focus on free will skepticism, moral responsibility, criminal punishment, and applied ethics. He is best known for defending the “public health-quarantine model” of justice, which views criminal behavior as a societal issue rooted in social determinants—emphasizing prevention, rehabilitation, and public health over retribution. His work also addresses neurolaw, neuroethics, philosophy of mind, and moral psychology. In addition to these core areas, Caruso engages with issues in business ethics, consciousness studies, environmental ethics, and biomedical ethics. He has collaborated with legal scholars, neuroscientists, and psychologists to examine how brain science informs our concepts of justice and punishment. 🧬⚖️🧠 His forward-thinking approach challenges traditional views of blame, arguing that people are not morally responsible in the basic desert sense. Instead, he proposes a compassionate, scientifically informed alternative to punitive systems.

🏆 Awards, Distinctions & Fellowships

Dr. Caruso has earned multiple prestigious awards and grants throughout his academic career. Most notably, he received the 2022 Joseph B. Gittler Award from the American Philosophical Association for his book Rejecting Retributivism, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the philosophy of social sciences. In 2024, he was named SUNY Distinguished Professor, one of the highest honors in the State University of New York system, acknowledging his international impact and research excellence. At Fairfield University, he was awarded a 2025 Summer Research Stipend to support his forthcoming book, Putting People Before Profit. Other accolades include SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Scholarship (2015), multiple sabbaticals for book projects, and over $23,000 in conference grants. 🏅💡📖 His awards underscore his role as a transformative thinker advocating justice without retribution, ethics over profit, and reasoned debate over punitive instinct. Caruso’s distinctions affirm his leadership in ethics, law, and public philosophy.

📚 Selected Publications

Free will and consciousness: A determinist account of the illusion of free will

Rejecting retributivism: free will, punishment, and criminal justice

Neuroexistentialism: Meaning, morals, and purpose in the age of neuroscience

Free will skepticism and criminal behavior: A public health-quarantine model

Justice without retribution: An epistemic argument against retributive criminal punishment

Free will skepticism and its implications: An argument for optimism

A non-punitive alternative to retributive punishment

Moral responsibility reconsidered

Free will skepticism and the question of creativity: Creativity, desert, and self-creation

Free will skepticism in law and society

Li Song | high-speed railway | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Li Song | high-speed railway | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Li Song, School of Civil Engineering, China.

Professor Song Li 👨‍🏫 is a distinguished expert in high-speed railway infrastructure at Central South University, serving as a doctoral supervisor and deputy director of the National Engineering Research Center for High-Speed Railway Construction Technology 🚄. As a core contributor to several national innovation teams, including the “High-Speed Railway Bridge Service Safety” initiative, he plays a critical role in advancing China’s rail transport safety and structural engineering research. With a deep-rooted academic foundation and visionary leadership, he actively participates in the country’s strategic development projects and civil engineering standards. His dedication to infrastructure safety and smart assessment systems has positioned him as a thought leader in modern transportation engineering and innovation. Through extensive collaboration with governmental and academic institutions, Prof. Song Li continues to elevate the standards of railway systems with sustainable and intelligent solutions. 🌐

👨‍🏫 Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education 

Prof. Song Li earned his Doctorate in Civil Engineering and Structural Engineering from Tongji University 🎓, one of China’s top engineering institutions. His educational journey was marked by a focus on dynamic systems, fatigue analysis, and material durability in large-scale infrastructure projects. During his doctoral studies, he cultivated a strong foundation in computational modeling, mechanics, and experimental engineering 🧠. His academic pursuits aligned closely with national objectives, particularly in enhancing the performance and lifespan of railway bridge structures. This robust academic background has not only fueled his innovations in intelligent safety assessment systems but has also equipped him with interdisciplinary skills necessary for leadership roles in national engineering research. 📚 His continued engagement with academic training and mentorship supports a new generation of engineers in cutting-edge civil infrastructure technologies.

🛠️ Experience 

With over two decades of research and development in high-speed railway structural systems, Prof. Song Li’s experience spans critical national projects and academic leadership roles 🏗️. At Central South University, he serves as a pivotal figure in the School of Civil Engineering, acting as second-in-charge of the Structural Durability Innovation Team. He has led or participated in more than 20 major scientific research initiatives, including those under the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the 863 Program, and the China Railway Group 🚆. His work on service performance, fatigue resistance, and long-term deformation behavior of track-bridge systems has driven major technological advances. As a core contributor to the “Rail Transit Safety” Collaborative Innovation Center, he helps set benchmarks for infrastructure safety in China. His influence also extends to construction standards as a member of the Masonry Structure Committee under the China Engineering Construction Standardization Association. 🔧

🔬 Research Interests 

Prof. Song Li’s research interests revolve around the service performance and intelligent safety assessment of high-speed railway structural systems 🧪. His work focuses on dynamics, fatigue behavior, material durability, and long-term structural deformation of bridge-track interfaces. He is dedicated to developing intelligent, sensor-based systems for real-time safety evaluation of railway infrastructure, blending artificial intelligence with structural monitoring 🤖. His contributions have strengthened the resilience and sustainability of high-speed railway networks, ensuring long-term operational reliability. He is also committed to interdisciplinary research, collaborating with computer scientists, materials engineers, and policy-makers to push forward the boundaries of structural health monitoring and lifecycle engineering 🧬. His current interests also include digital twin technology, big-data-driven safety diagnostics, and the standardization of performance-based evaluation methods across railway systems.

🏆 Awards 

Prof. Song Li has received prestigious national and regional awards in recognition of his contributions to high-speed railway technology 🏅. These include the First Prize of Hunan Provincial Science and Technology Progress Award, the Special Prize of China Railway Science and Technology Progress Award, and another First Prize from the same organization 🥇. Additionally, he earned the Hunan Provincial Science and Technology Innovation Team Award for his leadership and collaboration in structural engineering research. These honors highlight his transformative role in developing reliable and intelligent rail infrastructure. His recognition not only underscores his academic excellence but also validates the real-world impact of his work on China’s rapidly advancing transportation sector 🚄. These accolades serve as milestones in his enduring pursuit of safe, smart, and sustainable railway systems.

📚 Publication Top Notes 

Impact of urban morphology on dwellings carbon emissions at the district scale

Identification of wheel-rail forces on high-speed railways based on physical model and hybrid recursive neural networks

Non-destructive detection and quantification of corrosion damage in coated steel components with different illumination conditions

Durability study of CRTS III slab ballastless track under the combined effects of fatigue damage and carbonation

Research on Coordinated Relationship Between Deformation and Force in Shaft Foundation Pit Support Structures