Raphael Bar El | Innovation Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Raphael Bar El | Innovation Strategy | Best Researcher Award 

Professor | Ben-Gurion University of the Negev | Israel

Prof. Raphael Bar El is a distinguished economist and innovation scholar recognized for his extensive contributions to the fields of regional development, innovation policy, and public management. His research focuses on innovation systems, entrepreneurship, and the strategic interplay between economic policy and regional growth. Professor Bar-El has authored and edited several influential books, such as Regional Development and Conflict Management: A Case for Brazil, Desenvolvimento Econômico Regional para a Redução da Pobreza e Desigualdade, Industrialização Rural no Nordeste, and The Economic Development of the Arab Sector in Israel. His academic publications have appeared in leading volumes and journals, addressing topics such as under-investment in innovative enterprises, the spatial distribution of high-tech industries, and socio-economic policy frameworks for conflict regions. Professor Bar-El’s leadership extends beyond academia to public service and international development. He has served as Director of the National and Economic Planning Authority at the Ministry of Economy and Planning and as Director General of the Development Study Center. As the Founder and President of the Israeli Regional Science Association, he has played a pioneering role in advancing regional science and innovation policy in Israel and abroad. His expertise has been sought by numerous international organizations and governments, including the World Bank, UNDP, and various ministries across Latin America, Africa, and Europe, where he has led and advised more than thirty major development and innovation projects. With an academic record comprising 56 documents, 387 citations across 328 publications, and an h-index of 11, Professor Bar-El continues to influence policy thinking and academic discourse on regional innovation and sustainable economic development. His long-standing commitment to integrating theory with practical policy solutions has positioned him as a leading voice in shaping innovation ecosystems and fostering socio-economic growth across diverse regions.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications :

Bar-El, R., Gavious, I., Kaufmann, D., & Schwartz, D. (2017). Under-investments in innovative SMEs: The effect of entrepreneurial cognitive bias. In K. O. Lundvall & P. Nielsen (Eds.), Human capital and assets in the networked world.

Schwartz, D., Avnimelech, G., & Bar-El, R. (2012). The location of knowledge economy and high-tech in Israel. In J. K. Gibson-Graham & G. Roelvink (Eds.), Societies in motion: Innovation, migration and regional transformation.

Bar-El, R. (2014). Economic considerations in implementing a parallel states structure. In M. Cohen & C. Scheindlin (Eds.), One land, two states: Israel and Palestine as parallel states University of California Press.

Bar-El, R., & Co-authors. (2024). Can the periphery survive innovation-led growth? Insights from Israel. Regional Studies, Regional Science.

Bar-El, R., & Co-authors. (2022). Adapting reverse mentoring strategy to SMEs: A new pilot model implemented in Brazil. Sustainability.

Anita Boros | Innovation Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Anita Boros | Innovation Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Anita Boros, Institute of Agricultural and Food Economics, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Hungary.

Prof. Dr. Anita Boros (b. 1980) is a distinguished Hungarian legal scholar, academic leader, and public policy expert with a multifaceted career spanning academia, government, and strategic consultancy. With over two decades of experience in higher education and public service, she currently holds professorships at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the National University of Public Service, and the University of Physical Education. Her expertise lies in public administration law, green innovation policy, and sustainability-focused legal frameworks. Prof. Boros has held influential roles in several ministries, served as Secretary of State at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, and actively shaped legal and economic reforms at the national level. A habilitated doctor and former deputy state secretary, her ongoing work focuses on the interface between governance, law, and sustainable development. Her impactful teaching, pioneering research, and public engagement make her a key figure in Hungarian academia and policy circles.

👨‍🎓 Profile  

Orcid

scopus

🎓 Education and Qualifications

Prof. Dr. Boros holds multiple academic and professional qualifications in law, economics, and public administration. She earned her law degree from Eötvös Loránd University (2005) and completed her PhD at Károli Gáspár University’s Doctoral School of Political Science and Law (2008). She also completed a comparative LL.M. at Andrássy University Budapest (2010) and obtained the habilitated doctoral title (dr. habil.) from the National University of Public Service (2016). Her multidisciplinary training includes a Public Procurement Officer qualification from Corvinus University (2006) and vocational education in industrial law protection. These credentials underscore her robust theoretical foundation and diverse professional readiness in law, governance, and public administration. She is also a certified legal examiner and an experienced university-level trainer in public procurement law and state asset management. Her academic path reflects a dynamic and evolving commitment to knowledge and leadership across Hungary’s legal and administrative frameworks.

🏛️ Professional Experience

Prof. Boros has held impactful academic and public sector roles since 2001. She began as a registrar at Károli Gáspár University before becoming a lecturer and eventually professor and head of institute at the National University of Public Service. Between 2010 and 2021, she served in key public administration roles, including Head of Department at the Public Procurement Authority, Chief Adviser at the Ministry of National Development, Deputy State Secretary, and finally Secretary of State at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology. She also acted as a CEO consultant at MBH Bank and founded a legal practice in 2017. Her leadership spans numerous institutions, including professorial appointments at the University of Physical Education and the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences. She has led innovation centers focusing on circular economy and green technologies. Her distinguished career demonstrates excellence in both academic instruction and public policy implementation.

🔬 Research Interests

Prof. Boros’s current research is dedicated to the intersection of green innovation, economic law, and sustainability. Her work focuses on themes such as green economy, circular economy, green finance, and the sustainability of sports and infrastructure. She previously researched administrative law, EU procedural law, public procurement, and state asset management. She has coordinated several national research projects, including analysis of the RENEUAL model rules and trends in the green construction industry. As head of the GREENOLOGY Knowledge Center and Circular Economy Analysis Center, she led cross-disciplinary research on energy utilization, green retrofits, and modular architecture. Prof. Boros plays an instrumental role in the integration of legal frameworks with environmental policy and innovation. Her scholarly inquiry contributes not only to Hungarian academic discourse but also addresses pressing global challenges in sustainable development and legal modernization.

🏆 Awards 

Prof. Boros has received numerous accolades recognizing her scholarly excellence and public service. Early in her career, she was awarded the prestigious Republican Scholarship (2000) by the Ministry of Education. Her academic contributions were honored when she was named Teacher of the Year at Corvinus University (2008). During her tenure at the Ministry of National Development, she earned a Ministerial Recognition (2014), followed by the Pro Regio Award and the Hungarian Road Award (2017). Her recent contributions to sustainability and green finance were acknowledged through the MNB Green Financial Science Award (2022) by the Hungarian National Bank. Additionally, she received the Pro Procurationem Award from the Public Procurement Authority (2023) and the Pro Urbe Award from Fehérgyarmat Municipality (2022). These accolades illustrate her outstanding achievements in academia, law, innovation, and public administration.

📚 Publications Top Notes

Green Public Procurement: Legal Challenges in Hungary. Hungarian Journal of Legal Studies.

Circular Economy and Sustainability in Public Administration. Journal of Environmental Policy and Law.

Legal Aspects of Green Financing in the EU. European Public Law Journal.

The Role of Administrative Law in Economic Sustainability. Hungarian Review of Public Law.

✅ Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Anita Boros exemplifies academic brilliance, policy leadership, and innovative vision. Her trajectory from legal scholar to Secretary of State and research director has been fueled by a deep commitment to institutional transformation and sustainable development. Her pioneering efforts in public procurement law and circular economy have set new benchmarks in governance and interdisciplinary research. As a professor across multiple institutions, she inspires future leaders while driving impactful policy reforms. Her research leadership at GREENOLOGY and MATE has facilitated innovation ecosystems that blend legal compliance with green technology. With numerous national awards, published works, and cross-sector collaborations, Prof. Boros is uniquely positioned at the confluence of education, law, and sustainability. These attributes make her a strong and deserving candidate for national and international recognition through distinguished awards in research, policy innovation, and academic excellence.

Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena | Competitive Analysis and Market Positioning | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena – Competitive Analysis and Market Positioning  – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena’s extensive contributions to economic research, academic administration, and international collaboration make him a strong candidate for awards in categories such as: Lifetime Achievement in Economics and Education, Excellence in Economic Research and Policy Development, Outstanding Contribution to International Academic Collaboration His teaching excellence, policy research, and leadership in university administration make him a distinguished figure in applied economics.

Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha | Spain

Profile

Orcid

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Dr. Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena was born in Madrid in 1951 and laid the foundation for his academic and professional career at Nuestra Señora del Recuerdo School in Madrid. His early interests were diverse, including sports, as he actively played basketball for Canoe N.C. Beyond sports, he displayed an early inclination towards leadership, serving as the President of the Spanish Federation of Christian University Communities (FECUM). His passion for economics led him to the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), where he pursued a degree and later a Ph.D. in Economic Sciences. His time at UCM equipped him with a deep understanding of applied economics, labor markets, and industrial organization.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

career spans both academia and industry. Before fully transitioning into academia, he gained practical experience working for Fraser Española, EIDA, and AYSA, where he applied his economic expertise to real-world business challenges. His transition into academia began in 1976 at UCM, where he served as a professor until 1990. During this period, he developed a strong foundation in research and teaching, which later led to his role as a Spanish representative in the European Pool of Studies (EPOS), a European Commission initiative (1986–1991). Following his tenure at UCM, he joined the University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), where he served in various capacities. His leadership roles at UCLM included: Vice-Rector for Research Director of the Department of Spanish and International Economic. He later became Vice-Rector for Economic Affairs at Menéndez Pelayo International University (UIMP) and was a member of the Regional Agency for University Quality of Castilla-La Mancha. These positions reflect his expertise in economic policy, institutional governance, and academic administration

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Competitive Analysis and Market Positioning

Dr. Palacio Morena’s contributions to academia are vast, spanning teaching, research, and academic management. His research has focused on: Labor and Industrial Economics – Examining workforce dynamics, employment policies, and industrial transformations in Spain. Social History – Analyzing economic trends through the lens of social structures and historical events. Spanish Economy – Assessing Spain’s economic growth, fiscal policies, and industrial development. He has supervised ten doctoral theses and directed various postgraduate programs, shaping the next generation of economists and policy analysts.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Palacio Morena has been recognized for his excellence in research and education. His honors include: Doctor Honoris Causa from the Autonomous University of Baja California – A testament to his contributions to academia on an international scale. Four National Research Awards – Recognizing his groundbreaking work in applied economics and labor studies. Invited Lecturer at Prestigious Latin American Universities – He has taught at:

    • San Francisco Javier University (Bolivia)
    • Institute of International Economics, University of Havana (Cuba)
    • Autonomous University of Baja California (Mexico)
    • Fluminense University of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)
    • University of Buenos Aires (Argentina)

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Dr. Palacio Morena’s research and teachings have shaped economic policies, particularly in labor markets and industrial organization. His work in international economic studies has contributed to policy discussions and academic debates worldwide. His administrative roles at UCLM and UIMP helped strengthen institutional research frameworks, improve academic quality, and foster global collaborations. Through his mentorship, he has influenced numerous researchers and professionals who continue to contribute to the field of economics.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Even in retirement, Dr. Palacio Morena remains an active contributor to economic scholarship and education. His ongoing collaborations, research publications, and mentorship ensure that his influence endures. His legacy is defined by: A lifetime of academic excellence and research impact. International collaborations that bridge economic research between Spain and Latin America. A commitment to mentoring future economists and policymakers.

 

Conclusion

Dr. Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena’s career is a testament to dedication, intellectual rigor, and academic leadership. His contributions to economic research, teaching, and institutional development have had a lasting impact in Spain and Latin America. His recognition as a Doctor Honoris Causa, his multiple research awards, and his leadership in economic education reinforce his status as an eminent scholar. As he continues to contribute as a collaborating professor and researcher, his legacy remains influential, inspiring future generations of economists and academics.

📚Publications

Full Competition and Innovation

Authors: Juan Ignacio Palacio Morena; Alejandro Mungaray; LIZBETH SALGADO; Jaciel Ramsés Méndez-León

Journals: Sustainability

Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska | Entrepreneruship | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska  –  Entrepreneruship  –  Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Her research contributions align well with the Best Researcher Award or an Excellence in Innovation category. Her focus on economic innovation, technological entrepreneurship, and policy implications for SMEs demonstrates a strong alignment with global business transformation and technological advancement

 

Departament of Management, Economics and Finance | Poland

Orcid

Scopus

Scholar

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska, an accomplished academic and researcher, embarked on her educational journey with a strong foundation in economics and law. She earned her Master of Arts (MA) in Economics from the University of Bialystok in 2001, followed by a Master of Law degree from the University of Bialystok’s Department of Law in 2005. Her academic rigor culminated in a Ph.D. in Economics from the Warsaw School of Economics in 2004. Her doctoral dissertation, titled “The Impact of the European Union Funds on the Functioning of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in the Podlasie Province in Poland,” demonstrated her keen interest in economic development and the practical implications of financial support structures for business growth.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Bialystok University of Technology, Faculty of Management, Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska has dedicated her career to advancing research and education in economics, innovation, and technological entrepreneurship. Her professional journey includes involvement in various prestigious organizations and academic committees, reflecting her commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge dissemination. She is a member of the IEEE Technology and Engineering Management Society (since 2013) and the Polish Economic Society (since 2007). Additionally, she has played a crucial role in organizing conferences on innovative development and social economy in Poland, further strengthening her position as a thought leader in these fields.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Entrepreneruship

Her research primarily revolves around technological entrepreneurship, innovation management, and economic development. She is currently working on her habilitation book project, “The aim of technological entrepreneurship – trends and model commercialization of research.” Her scholarly contributions explore the predictors of technological entrepreneurship growth in a changing economic environment, with a specific focus on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Polish energy sector. Furthermore, her work in entrepreneurial orientation, family businesses, and social economy models has provided valuable insights into the dynamics of business development and sustainability. Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska has been instrumental in bridging academic research with practical business applications. Her studies on barriers to financing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and corporate social responsibility have influenced policy discussions and strategic planning for businesses in Poland and beyond.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Her academic excellence and contributions have been recognized through multiple fellowships and international engagements. She has participated in research fellowships at esteemed institutions worldwide, including ISVOUGA, Instituto Superior de Entre Douro e Vouga, Portugal (2023); University of Belize, Faculty of Management and Innovation, Belize (2023); Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, Vietnam (2022); and Long Island University, Department of Management and Entrepreneurship, USA (2015). Her global academic engagements underline her commitment to cross-border knowledge exchange and the integration of international perspectives in her research.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Through her extensive research and publications, Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska has significantly impacted the academic community and the business sector. Her work on regional economic development, particularly in Eastern Poland, has informed regional policy strategies and investment decisions. She has edited and authored chapters in key publications, including “Eastern Poland: Selected Aspects of Regional Development in the Period 2007-2013,” addressing topics such as European cohesion, effective regional policies, and the role of social economy in fostering societal cohesion. Her studies have also emphasized the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) for small and medium enterprises, contributing to a broader understanding of ethical business practices and sustainable development. Her research findings have been published in high-impact journals such as Energies, Financial Internet Quarterly E-Finanse, and Journal of Intercultural Management, further extending her influence in the academic and business communities.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska’s legacy is rooted in her dedication to advancing economic knowledge, fostering technological entrepreneurship, and promoting social economy models. As she continues her academic and research journey, her focus remains on developing innovative strategies for economic growth and sustainability. Her ongoing research into commercialization models of technological entrepreneurship aims to provide practical frameworks for businesses and policymakers. Her contributions to conference committees, academic societies, and research fellowships suggest that her influence will continue to grow, shaping the future of economic and management sciences. By mentoring young researchers and collaborating with international institutions, she ensures the continued expansion and refinement of her research themes.

Conclusion

Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska stands as a distinguished academic and researcher whose work has significantly contributed to the fields of economics, technological entrepreneurship, and innovation management. Her professional journey, marked by rigorous academic pursuits, extensive research contributions, and global collaborations, underscores her expertise and dedication. As she continues her research on the commercialization of technological innovations, her insights are poised to benefit businesses, policymakers, and the academic community alike. Her unwavering commitment to excellence makes her a strong candidate for prestigious research awards and recognitions.

📚Publications

Sustainable development of smart cities through municipal waste incinerators: the examples of artificial intelligence in technological entrepreneurship

Journals: Engineering Management in Production and Services
Authors: Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska; Marie Pavlakova-Docekalova; Milena Ratajczak-Mrozek; Cindy Thompson

Overcoming the Challenge of Exploration: Organizational Readiness of Technology Entrepreneurship on the Background of Energy Climate Nexus

Journals: Energies
Authors: Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska; Michał Bąkowski; Magdalena Forfa

Overcoming the Challenge of Exploration. Organizational Readiness of Technology Entrepreneurship on the Background of Energy Climate Nexus

Authors: Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska; Michał Bąkowski; Magdalena Forfa

Sztuczna inteligencja w zarządzaniu kapitałem przedsiębiorstwa w dobie Przemysłu 5.0 [w:] Akademia Zarządzania – 7(4)/2023

Journals: Academy of Management
Authors: Monika Walicka; Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska

Trends in the development of technological entrepreneurship based on artificial intelligence

Journals: Academy of Management
Authors: Wioletta Czemiel-Grzybowska