Rachana Lunawat | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Rachana Lunawat | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award 

Rachana Lunawat | Kingston University | United Kingdom 

Ms. Rachana Lunawat is an emerging scholar and finance professional with a strong academic foundation and practical experience in financial control, reporting, and sustainability-driven investment analysis. She holds a Master of Science in Accounting and Finance with Distinction from Kingston University, London, and a Master of Commerce from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Her academic and professional journey reflects a blend of analytical expertise and sustainability-oriented research. Having worked across the UK and India, Rachana has contributed to financial control, reconciliations, and audit preparedness in both public and private sectors, demonstrating her capability in enhancing reporting accuracy and operational efficiency. Her research interests lie at the intersection of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and corporate financial performance. She co-authored a peer-reviewed article titled “Integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Factors into the Investment Returns of American Companies,” published in MDPI’s international journal Sustainability. The study, indexed in Scopus and the Web of Science, employs panel data regression models using Bloomberg and Refinitiv datasets to assess how ESG engagement influences market valuation and long-term financial outcomes. This publication underscores her commitment to bridging sustainable finance and empirical financial analysis, offering insights that inform corporate strategy and responsible investment practices. Beyond research, Rachana has been actively involved in industry-oriented financial analysis projects, including portfolio optimization and ESG-financial performance evaluation of S&P 500 firms. These projects reflect her ability to translate academic concepts into data-driven decision-making relevant to global markets. Her collaborations with scholars from the University of St Andrews and Aston Business School have further enriched her interdisciplinary perspective on corporate sustainability and financial performance dynamics.

Profiles : ORCID | Linked In

Featured Publication : 

Lunawat, R. M., Elmarzouky, M., & Shohaieb, D. (2025). Integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into the investment returns of American companies. Sustainability, 17(19), 8522.

Adil Zareef Khan | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Adil Zareef Khan | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Adil Zareef Khan | Chung Yuan Christian university | Taiwan

Mr. Adil Zareef Khan is a motivated and research-oriented professional currently pursuing a PhD in International Trade and Economics at Chung Yuan Christian University in Taiwan. With a strong academic foundation in commerce and project management, he has developed expertise in areas such as risk management, financial management, procurement, human resource management, quality management, and supply chain decision-making. His research interests lie at the intersection of leadership, project innovativeness, organizational behavior, and international trade policies, with several publications focusing on spiritual, ethical, servant, and inclusive leadership and their influence on project success, creativity, and team cohesion. In addition, he has contributed research examining the global impact of trade policies, including tariff dynamics. Alongside his academic journey, he has worked as a research assistant in the field of international trade and economics, gaining experience in research coordination, data handling, and scholarly writing. His professional career also includes serving as a law officer, where he dealt with legal suits, advised decision-makers, and managed human resources, as well as teaching as a visiting lecturer at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He has participated in international research conferences and has been recognized with scholarships and research assistantships for academic excellence. Beyond his academic and professional roles, he has honed skills in office administration, project coordination, document management, business communication, and legal and compliance insight, supported by certifications in project management and human resources from international institutions.

Featured Publications : 

Khan, A. Z., & Lee, C. W. (2025). The impact of Trump’s tariff policies on global trade dynamics: A case study of major US trade partners. International Journal of Business and Economic Affairs, 10(1), 62–71.

Lee, C. W., & Khan, A. Z. (2024). Ethical leadership and servant leadership on team creativity: Task interdependencies as a moderating role. International Journal of Business and Economic Affairs, 9(3), 69–80.

Khan, A. Z., & Lee, C. W. (2025). Exploring leadership’s role in sustainable development: The moderating impact of community involvement in SMEs across Pakistan, India, and Taiwan. Sustainability, 17(16), 7384.

Lee, C. W., Khan, A. Z., & Liu, P. T. (2025). CSR and job satisfaction in Pakistan’s construction sector: The roles of organizational commitment and perceived support. Human Resources Management and Services, 7(2), 4446–4446.

Javed, A., Ibrahim, M. Y., Ngah, A. H., Zafar, M. J., Hammad, M., Khan, A. Z., & Mir, F. (2025). Impact of inclusive leadership on project success—with mediating role of organizational commitment and top management support as moderator: A systematic literature review. Multidisciplinary Reviews, 8(8), 2025250–2025250.

Jagdish Lohar | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jagdish Lohar | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award  

Research Scholar at Malaviya National Institute of Technology | India 

Mr. Jagdish Lohar is an accomplished civil engineer and researcher with extensive academic and professional experience in the field of geotechnical and structural engineering. He has pursued advanced studies, including a doctoral program focused on utilizing dimensional stone industry waste as a sustainable fill material in reinforced soil structures. His academic journey also includes a master’s degree in structural engineering where he explored fiber-reinforced compressed earth blocks, and a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. With over four years of teaching experience at various engineering institutions, he has contributed to shaping the next generation of engineers. His research work has resulted in numerous publications, with more than 35 citations from 25 scholarly documents, and a recognized h-index of 3, and authorship across 10 documents, reflecting the impact and relevance of his contributions. His work emphasizes sustainable and innovative practices, such as the beneficial use of industrial wastes in construction and geotechnical applications. His studies have been featured in high-impact journals and indexed databases, addressing environmental, geotechnical, and economic aspects of civil engineering materials. In addition to his research, Jagdish holds several patents, including granted and filed inventions related to construction technology and materials testing, highlighting his dedication to translating academic knowledge into practical applications. He has also been actively involved in delivering expert sessions on intellectual property, sustainable construction, and geotechnical innovations, promoting awareness and development within the engineering community. His scholarly contributions and commitment to sustainable engineering practices have positioned him as a respected voice in his field, making significant advancements toward environmentally responsible construction solutions and innovative material utilization.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications:   

Solanki, T., Shrivastava, N., & Lohar, J. (2025). Enhancing subgrade stability of black cotton soil using RO membrane as geo-reinforcement. In Advances in Geotechnical Engineering (pp. 1–).

Lohar, J., & Shrivastava, N. (2025). Feasibility of marble processing waste as non-conventional fill in geotechnical applications. Journal of Mining and Environment, 16(1), 15–38.

Lohar, J., Lauhar, N., & Sain, A. (2025). Valorizing marble processing waste in fiber-reinforced cement-stabilized compressed earth blocks: Toward environmental sustainability. Journal of Structural Design and Construction Practice, 30(4), 04025064.

Lohar, J., & Shrivastava, N. (2025). Granite processing waste as sustainable structural fill in reinforced soil structures: A techno-economic analysis. Construction and Building Materials, 491, 142800.

Lohar, J., & Shrivastava, N. (2025). Beneficial use of dimensional stone industry wastes in geotechnical fills: Geotechnical, environmental and economic perspectives. Resources Policy, 101, 105465.

Esin Hazneci | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Esin Hazneci | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Esin Hazneci, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Turkey.

Dr. Esin Hazneci is a dedicated academic and accomplished researcher at the Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey 🌿. Since 2011, she has served as a lecturer, contributing extensively to the advancement of agricultural sciences. With her strong commitment to education and innovation, she plays a pivotal role in shaping future professionals in agriculture. Dr. Hazneci’s passion lies in understanding and improving the economic frameworks that govern agricultural production, marketing, and digital technologies. Her multidisciplinary approach enables a comprehensive perspective on agricultural systems, integrating management, statistics, and economics. A forward-thinking educator, she champions sustainable practices and risk analysis in agricultural policy. Her scholarly contributions and dedication to academic excellence position her as a distinguished figure in agricultural economics. As a female academic, she also contributes to increasing gender equity in agricultural research and higher education 🌍.

👩‍🏫 Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Dr. Esin Hazneci’s academic journey reflects a solid foundation in agricultural sciences and economic research 📘. She pursued her higher education in Agricultural Economics, culminating in a doctoral degree that deepened her expertise in production economics and agricultural planning. Her studies emphasized quantitative research, policy analysis, and sustainability in agriculture—skills which she now imparts to her students. Her educational background includes comprehensive training in macroeconomic theory, agricultural management systems, and statistical methodologies. This foundation has allowed her to engage critically with emerging topics such as digital agriculture and climate-resilient farming. Dr. Hazneci continuously upgrades her knowledge through academic collaborations and participation in specialized training, ensuring her skills remain current and impactful. Her education not only equips her for teaching but also enhances her ability to conduct multidisciplinary research that addresses real-world agricultural challenges. 📚 Her commitment to lifelong learning is evident in her continuous professional development and scholarly pursuits.

🧪 Experience

With over a decade of academic and research experience, Dr. Esin Hazneci has played a vital role in agricultural economic education and innovation in Turkey 🌱. Since 2011, she has lectured at Ondokuz Mayis University, delivering courses in agricultural management, planning, marketing, statistics, and macroeconomics. Her practical teaching approach is complemented by hands-on research experience in production economics, risk analysis, and agribusiness strategies. Dr. Hazneci has collaborated on multiple research projects exploring the economic impacts of modern agricultural technologies and policy reforms. She actively contributes to both national and international academic forums, publishing impactful studies and engaging in scholarly discussions that shape agricultural policy. Her blend of classroom instruction, research leadership, and mentorship has significantly enhanced her faculty’s academic reputation. As a seasoned educator and researcher, Dr. Hazneci’s experience positions her as an authoritative voice in shaping future agricultural economics policies and educational practices, benefiting both students and policymakers alike. 🌾

🔍 Research Interests

Dr. Esin Hazneci’s research interests lie at the intersection of agricultural economics and sustainable development 🌾. Her work primarily addresses agricultural management and planning, risk analysis in farming systems, production economics, and market strategies. She also investigates the socio-economic implications of digital agricultural technologies, exploring how innovation can boost productivity and sustainability. Dr. Hazneci is particularly passionate about analyzing the economic behaviors of rural producers and identifying policies that enhance agricultural efficiency and resilience. Her focus on evidence-based research allows her to quantify risks and returns across agricultural value chains. Recently, her work has expanded to include data-driven agricultural policies, precision farming economics, and the integration of climate-smart practices. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, she aims to build a robust framework that supports the transformation of traditional agricultural practices into sustainable models. Her research ultimately seeks to contribute to national and global food security efforts and rural economic development. 📊

🏆 Awards

Dr. Esin Hazneci has earned recognition for her commitment to academic excellence and impactful research in agricultural economics 🏅. While formal awards are modestly noted, her distinction comes from consistently being selected for competitive research initiatives and funded academic projects. Her contribution to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and rural economic policies has been acknowledged through invitations to international conferences, research workshops, and reviewer boards of peer-reviewed journals. Her teaching excellence has also been reflected in positive student feedback and mentorship outcomes. Dr. Hazneci’s scholarly impact is steadily gaining momentum, with increasing citations and collaborations across European research networks. As her reputation grows, she is being positioned for larger recognitions in agricultural innovation and educational leadership. Her role as a female leader in a traditionally male-dominated field also positions her as a candidate for gender equity and mentorship awards within academia. 🥇

📚 Publication Top Notes

Possible Effects of Licensed Warehousing System on Hazelnut Producers’ Incomes in Türkiye

Does Organic Production and Marketing Training Improve the Agricultural Business Skills of Rural Women Farmers? A Case Study from Türkiye

The Effects of Agricultural Monitoring and Information System on Producers

The Effects of Agricultural Drone Use on Agricultural Production, Yield and Profitability: The Case of Samsun Province

Potential Use of Postharvest Tomato Wastes as a Growing Media in Soilless Culture

Bilel JARRAYA | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Bilel JARRAYA – Sustainability – Best Researcher Award

Qassim University | Saudi Arabia

      Profile

Scopus

Orcid

📍Current Position

Xiaodong Marcus Li is a distinguished Ph.D. candidate at Sun Yat-sen University, specializing in Business Administration under the guidance of Professor Kang Xie. His doctoral research focuses on exploring the mechanisms behind user potential creativity and its impact on product innovation through digital technologies.

 

📝Publication Achievements

Xiaodong has a prolific publication record, including high-impact journals such as: Journal of Business Research: Examining user-led and firm-led participation in product innovation. China Industrial Economics: Analyzing user creativity and its role in digital product innovation.

Other notable works are under review in leading journals like the Strategic Management Journal, Information Systems Journal, and Technovation, showcasing his contributions to user engagement, digital technology, and product strategies.

 

🔍Ongoing Research

Xiaodong’s ongoing projects include: Investigating how digital technologies like AI and data analytics influence firm-user interactions. Unraveling the asymmetric value of AI in product strategy for market competitiveness. Advancing theories on digital innovation tools and their affordances for product innovation.

 

🔬 Research Interests

His core research interests lie in: Digital Transformation and Innovation Firm-User Interaction Human-AI Collaboration Digital Technology Application and Management

 

🎓Academic Background

Ph.D. in Business Administration (Sun Yat-sen University): Recognized for academic excellence, ranked 1st in the entrance examination, and recipient of the Freshman Scholarship and University-level scholarships for five consecutive years.

Doctoral Dissertation: A Mechanism Study on the Impact of User Potential Creativity on Product Innovation Based on Digital Technology.

Bachelor in Engineering (Central South University): Part of the prestigious Excellence Engineer Program, ranked 3rd in his major, and recipient of numerous accolades, including the Daye Nonferrous Metals Second-Class Scholarship.

 

🏆Scholarships and Awards

Multiple University-level Scholarships over nine academic years. Recognition for his academic distinction and leadership in innovation and digital transformation studies.

 

🧬Bioinformatics 

Xiaodong demonstrates proficiency in applying advanced algorithms like Transformer, BiLSTM, and BERT for developing vertical domain knowledge graphs and conducting data-driven research for practical business decision-making.

 

🌐Professional Associations 

Active contributor to professional forums like the China Information Economics Society and Pacific Asia Conference on Information Systems (PACIS). Participant in collaborative research initiatives funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

 

 📚Training & Workshops 

Hands-on experience in AI algorithms and digital analytics through internships with Midea Group and Sophia Group. Attended workshops on Innovation Management and Digital Technology Applications.

 

🎤Oral Presentations and🗣️Thought Leadership 

Xiaodong has presented at esteemed conferences, including: 2023 China Information Economics Society Annual Conference: Discussed digital technology and user creativity. 2023 China Forum on Qualitative Research in Management: Delivered insights on generative service innovation. PACIS 2022: Highlighted user participation modes in product innovation.

 

🧑‍🔬Tasks Completed as a Researcher 

Designed advanced methodologies to study firm-user interactions. Published groundbreaking findings in highly ranked journals (ABS 4, FT50). Enhanced real-world digital innovation through internships and collaborative projects.

 

🚀Success Factors 

Xiaodong’s academic and professional success stems from: Strong analytical skills and proficiency in tools like Python, Stata, R, and MATLAB. Expertise in data mining, text analysis, and machine learning. Leadership roles as a teaching assistant and class monitor, coupled with excellent communication and teamwork.

 

🧪Publications & Laboratory Experience

Xiaodong combines theoretical insights with hands-on laboratory work to bridge the gap between academic research and practical innovation. His studies on user creativity, supported by real-world applications in AI and digital tools, stand as a testament to his pioneering spirit.

 

🔍 Conclusion

With an impressive academic trajectory and impactful contributions to digital transformation, Xiaodong Marcus Li continues to inspire innovation in firm-user collaboration. His work underscores the potential of digital technologies to reshape product development and business strategies.

📚Publications

The Role of Environmental Innovation and Green Energy Deployment in Environmental Protection: Evidence from Saudi Arabia

       Author:  Kahia, M., Jarraya, B., kahouli, B., Omri, A.

       Journal:  Journal of the Knowledge EconomyThis link is disabled.,

Analyzing the Profitability and Efficiency in European Non-Life Insurance Industry

       Author:  Jarraya, B., Afi, H., Omri, A.

       Journal:  Methodology and Computing in Applied ProbabilityThis link is disabled.,

Do Environmental Innovation and Green Energy Matter for Environmental Sustainability? Evidence from Saudi Arabia (1990–2018)

       Author:  Kahia, M., Jarraya, B., Kahouli, B., Omri, A.

       Journal:  EnergiesThis link is disabled.,

Do board characteristics and ownership structure matter for bank non-performing loans? Empirical evidence from US commercial banks

        Author:  Tarchouna, A., Jarraya, B., Bouri, A.

        Journal:  Journal of Management and GovernanceThis link is disabled.,

Determinants of technical efficiency of Islamic banks in GCC countries

       Author:  Ben Mohamed, E., Meshabet, N., Jarraya, B.

       Journal:  Journal of Islamic Accounting and Business ResearchThis link is disabled.,