Bernardine Chidozie | Supply Chain | Innovative Research Award

Innovative Research Award

Bernardine Chidozie
Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco, Portugal

Bernardine Chidozie
Affiliation Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco
Country Portugal
Scopus ID 58492227100
Documents 8
Citations 70
h-index 4
Subject Area Supply Chain
Event Business Global Awards
ORCID 0000-0003-4137-2970

Bernardine Chidozie is an industrial engineer, academic, and researcher whose work spans sustainable supply chains, digital transformation, biomass logistics, simulation modeling, decision-support systems, and engineering management. The Innovative Research Award recognizes researchers whose scholarly contributions demonstrate methodological rigor, interdisciplinary relevance, and measurable influence within their respective fields. Her research activities have focused on developing practical and data-driven approaches to improve sustainability, operational efficiency, and resilience in complex supply chain networks.[1]

Abstract

Bernardine Chidozie has developed a research portfolio centered on sustainable supply chain management, digital transformation, logistics optimization, industrial engineering, and simulation-based decision support. Her academic work integrates analytical modeling, digital technologies, and sustainability frameworks to address contemporary challenges in biomass logistics and supply chain resilience. Through publications, conference presentations, academic teaching, and collaborative research activities, she has contributed to advancing evidence-based approaches for improving operational efficiency and sustainability performance in industrial systems.[2]

Keywords

Supply Chain Management, Sustainable Logistics, Biomass Supply Chains, Industrial Engineering, Simulation Modeling, Digital Transformation, Industry 5.0, Decision Support Systems, Circular Economy, Operational Optimization.

Introduction

The growing complexity of modern supply chains has increased the need for advanced analytical tools capable of supporting sustainable and resilient operational decisions. Researchers working at the intersection of engineering, logistics, and digital transformation play a critical role in addressing these challenges. Bernardine Chigozie Chidozie’s work reflects this interdisciplinary approach by combining simulation techniques, sustainability principles, and digital technologies to improve organizational performance and supply chain effectiveness.[3]

Research Profile

Bernardine Chidozie earned a PhD in Industrial Engineering and Management from the University of Aveiro, Portugal, where her doctoral research focused on simulation and digital mapping approaches for residual agroforestry biomass supply chains. She previously completed a Master’s degree in Electronic and Computer Engineering at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria, concentrating on intelligent charge control systems using fuzzy logic and PID controllers. Her multidisciplinary background combines expertise in engineering, optimization, control systems, logistics, and sustainability-oriented industrial management.[1]

  • Industrial Engineering and Management
  • Supply Chain Sustainability
  • Simulation Modeling
  • Digital Transformation and Industry 5.0
  • Circular Economy Applications
  • Decision Support Systems

Research Contributions

Bernardine Chidozie’s research focuses on sustainable biomass supply chains and the application of simulation-based methodologies to evaluate operational performance under different environmental and economic conditions. Her studies explore how digital tools can support decision-making and improve sustainability outcomes across logistics networks.[4]

Publications

  • Highlighting Sustainability Criteria in Residual Biomass Supply Chains: A Dynamic Simulation Approach (2024) — DOI: 10.3390/su16229709
  • Development of a Residual Biomass Supply Chain Simulation Model Using AnyLogistix: A Methodical Approach (2024) — DOI: 10.3390/logistics8040107
  • The Importance of Digital Transformation (5.0) in Supply Chain Optimization: An Empirical Study (2024) — DOI: 10.30657/pea.2024.30.12
  • Residual Agroforestry Biomass Supply Chain Simulation Insights and Directions: A Systematic Literature Review (2023) — DOI: 10.3390/su15139992
  • Development of an Intelligent Charge Control System Using Fuzzy Logic and PID Controllers for Nickel-Hydrogen Satellite Battery (2019).

Research Impact

Bernardine Chidozie contributes to the advancement of sustainable engineering practices and evidence-based logistics management. Her work provides practical frameworks for evaluating biomass supply chains, identifying sustainability indicators, and improving operational decision-making through simulation technologies. The integration of digital tools and sustainability metrics within her studies aligns with contemporary priorities in industrial engineering and supply chain management.[4][5]

Award Suitability

Bernardine Chidozie demonstrates several characteristics commonly associated with recipients of innovation-oriented academic distinctions. Her interdisciplinary research integrates engineering principles, digital transformation strategies, simulation methodologies, and sustainability objectives. The practical orientation of her studies, combined with scholarly publication output and active participation in international academic forums, reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge while supporting real-world applications.[2]

Conclusion

Through Bernardine Chidozie contributions to sustainable supply chain research, simulation-based logistics analysis, and digital transformation studies, Bernardine Chigozie Chidozie has established a research profile characterized by interdisciplinary engagement and practical relevance. Her academic activities, publications, and research achievements support recognition within the framework of the Innovative Research Award and illustrate ongoing contributions to the advancement of industrial engineering and sustainable supply chain management.[5]

References

  1. Ciência Vitae. (2026). Curriculum Vitae of Bernardine Chigozie Chidozie. Academic Profile and Professional Biography.
    https://www.cienciavitae.pt//BC13-A08C-D13B
  2. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Bernardine Chigozie Chidozie, Author ID 58492227100. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=58492227100
  3. Chidozie, B., Ramos, A., Ferreira, J., & Ferreira, L. (2024). Impacts of Simulation and Digital Tools on Supply Chain in Industry 4.0.
    https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-54664-8_43
  4. Chidozie, B., Ramos, A., Vasconcelos, J., Ferreira, L., & Gomes, R. (2024). Highlighting Sustainability Criteria in Residual Biomass Supply Chains: A Dynamic Simulation Approach.
    https://doi.org/10.3390/su16229709
  5. Chidozie, B., Ramos, A., Ferreira, J., & Ferreira, L. (2023). Analytical and Simulation Models as Decision Support Tools for Supply Chain Optimization-An Empirical Study.
    https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-54671-6_15

Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras | Regenerative Supply Chain | Breakthrough Research Award

Breakthrough Research Award

Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras
Colegio de Postgraduados, Mexico
Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras
Affiliation Colegio de Postgraduados
Country Mexico
Scopus ID 57193225784
Documents 36
Citations 383
h-index 10
Subject Area Regenerative Supply Chain
Event Business Global Awards
ORCID 0000-0002-4300-7777

Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras of Colegio de Postgraduados has developed a distinguished academic profile through his contributions to biometrics, statistical modeling, agri-food systems, and sustainable production methodologies. The Breakthrough Research Award recognizes scholarly excellence, interdisciplinary innovation, and sustained contributions to research and applied methodologies in regenerative supply chain systems, agri-food innovation, and statistical sciences. His research portfolio integrates quantitative analytics with agricultural innovation, food quality management, and sustainable development strategies.[1]

Abstract

Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras is a Mexican academic researcher specializing in biometrics, applied statistics, agri-food systems, and sustainable innovation methodologies. His scholarly work has contributed to the advancement of data analytics, multivariate statistics, quality management systems, and food science applications within agricultural and regenerative supply chain contexts. Through interdisciplinary collaborations and applied statistical modeling, he has supported sustainable agricultural productivity, quality assurance, and evidence-based decision-making frameworks across academic and industrial sectors.[2] His research achievements, publication record, and academic leadership support his recognition within international scientific and professional communities.[3]

Keywords

Regenerative Supply Chain, Applied Statistics, Biometrics, Agri-Food Innovation, Sustainable Agriculture, Food Quality Management, Data Analytics, Multivariate Statistics, Statistical Modeling, Agricultural Systems

Introduction

The evolving field of regenerative supply chain management increasingly relies on quantitative methodologies, integrated analytics, and sustainable production systems to improve operational efficiency and ecological resilience. Researchers working at the intersection of statistics, agriculture, and quality management contribute significantly to addressing contemporary food system challenges. Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras has established an interdisciplinary research profile centered on applied statistical sciences, food quality systems, and agricultural innovation.[2]

His academic trajectory includes advanced studies in biometrics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and extensive professional engagement in agri-food systems and industrial quality management. These experiences have informed his scholarly contributions to experimental design, statistical quality control, causal modeling, and sustainable agri-food production systems.[4]

Research Profile

Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras currently serves as an Adjunct Research Professor at Colegio de Postgraduados – Campus Córdoba in Mexico. His academic specialization encompasses applied statistics, food science, quality systems management, and causal modeling within biological and social sciences.[2] He completed a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biometrics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and has maintained active involvement in postgraduate education, research supervision, and interdisciplinary scientific collaboration.

His research activities include statistical methodologies in agronomy, agri-food logistics, social and environmental statistics, and data analytics. In addition to research responsibilities, he has contributed to academic administration through leadership positions including Deputy Director of Education and Deputy Director of Research at Colegio de Postgraduados.[4]

  • PhD in Biometrics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, United States
  • Research specialization in applied statistics and agri-food systems
  • Experience in quality management systems and food safety
  • Contributor to postgraduate teaching and scientific mentorship
  • Collaborative engagement with national and international academic institutions

Research Contributions

The research contributions of Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras span agricultural sciences, food technology, biometrics, and sustainability-oriented analytics. His work demonstrates a methodological emphasis on statistical rigor, causal inference, and experimental design in agri-food research environments.[5]

Among his notable scholarly outputs is the integration of molecular markers and structural equation models within selection index methodologies, contributing to improved analytical frameworks in agricultural genetics and crop sciences. His collaborative studies involving sugarcane productivity, nutrient metabolism, nanotechnology applications, and food quality systems illustrate interdisciplinary engagement with sustainable agricultural innovation.[6]

  • Application of multivariate statistical analysis in agri-food systems
  • Research on sustainable agricultural productivity and crop optimization
  • Studies involving food quality management and food safety systems
  • Integration of causal modeling and structural equation methodologies
  • Support for regenerative and sustainable supply chain innovation frameworks

Publications

Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras includes peer-reviewed journal articles addressing biometrics, agricultural sciences, food technology, and quality systems. His collaborative research contributions have appeared in journals associated with agronomy, food properties, biotechnology, and agricultural productivity.[3]

  • Hidalgo-Contreras, J. V., Salinas-Ruiz, J., Eskridge, K. M., & Baenziger, S. P. (2021). Incorporating Molecular Markers and Causal Structure among Traits Using a Smith-Hazel Index and Structural Equation Models. Agronomy, 11(10), 1953.
  • Bocarando-Guzmán, M. D. et al. (2022). Comparison of the physicochemical and functional properties of flour and protein isolate from moringa leaves. International Journal of Food Properties, 25(1), 733-747.

Research Impact

Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras is reflected through scholarly citations, interdisciplinary collaborations, postgraduate mentorship, and institutional leadership. His Scopus profile documents 36 indexed publications with more than 383 citations and an h-index of 10, indicating measurable influence within agricultural sciences and applied statistics research communities.[1]

Beyond publication metrics, his contributions to academic training, data analytics education, and quality systems instruction have strengthened methodological capacities within agri-food research programs. His involvement in sustainable agricultural projects and pollinator-attracting plantation initiatives further aligns his research with broader environmental sustainability and regenerative development objectives.[4]

Award Suitability

Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras demonstrates strong suitability for the Breakthrough Research Award based on his interdisciplinary contributions to statistical sciences, agri-food innovation, and sustainable systems analysis. His research integrates applied biometrics, quality management systems, and data-driven agricultural methodologies relevant to regenerative supply chain optimization.[5]

His sustained academic productivity, leadership within postgraduate institutions, and collaborative research initiatives illustrate commitment to evidence-based innovation and sustainable development. Furthermore, his teaching and extension activities contribute to the dissemination of analytical methodologies applicable to food systems, rural development, and environmental sustainability.[2]

Conclusion

Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras reflects a multidisciplinary approach to research involving applied statistics, biometrics, agricultural innovation, and sustainable quality management systems. Through peer-reviewed publications, collaborative scientific engagement, and academic leadership, he has contributed to advancing analytical methodologies relevant to regenerative supply chains and agri-food sustainability.[6]

His combination of scholarly output, institutional service, and applied research experience supports his recognition within international academic and professional communities. The Breakthrough Research Award acknowledges these sustained contributions to scientific advancement, interdisciplinary research, and sustainable innovation practices.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Juan Valente Hidalgo Contreras, Author ID 57193225784. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57193225784
  2. Hidalgo-Contreras, J. V. (2020). Effect of the application of an edible film with turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) on the oxidative stability of meat.
    https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/fsn3.1728
  3. Hidalgo-Contreras, J. V. (2018). Potencial de aprovechamiento del suero de queso en México.
    https://ageconsearch.umn.edu/record/352957/
  4. AC Hernández-Cázares (2017). Evaluación de la calidad e inocuidad de la panela de Veracruz, México.
    https://revista-agroproductividad.org/index.php/agroproductividad/article/view/68
  5. Hidalgo-Contreras, J. V., Salinas-Ruiz, J., Eskridge, K. M., & Baenziger, S. P. (2021). Incorporating Molecular Markers and Causal Structure among Traits Using a Smith-Hazel Index and Structural Equation Models. Agronomy, 11(10), 1953.
    https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11101953
  6. Ramírez-Antonio, V. J., Trejo-Téllez, L. I., Gómez-Merino, F. C., & Hidalgo-Contreras, J. V. (2023). Neodymium Stimulates Growth, Nutrient Concentration, and Metabolism in Sugarcane in Hydroponics. Sugar Tech.
    https://doi.org/10.1007/s12355-023-01245-8

Maria Vodenicharova | Supply Chain | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maria Vodenicharova | Supply Chain | Research Excellence Award

Associate Professor | University of National and World Economy | Bulgaria

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maria Vodenicharova is a respected academic and researcher known for her sustained contributions to scholarship, leadership, and knowledge advancement within her field. Her educational background reflects a strong foundation in advanced learning, analytical thinking, and interdisciplinary understanding, enabling her to approach complex academic and professional challenges with clarity and depth. In terms of professional experience, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maria Vodenicharova has held progressive academic and research roles.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

30

20

10

5

0

Citations
28

Documents
6

h-index
2

                         Citations                   Documents                 h-index

View Scopus Profile

Featured Publications

Micheline Naude | Supply Chain Management | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Micheline Naude | Supply Chain Management | Best Researcher Award 

Professor at University of KwaZulu-Natal | South Africa 

Prof. Micheline Juliana Naude is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Supply Chain Management, currently serving at the University of KwaZulu-Natal within the School of Management, Information and Public Administration. She has earned extensive qualifications in business and supply chain management, culminating in a Doctorate in Commerce in Business Management from the University of South Africa. With a career spanning academia and industry, she has established herself as a leading authority in supply chain research, teaching, and leadership. Her professional journey began in the corporate sector, where her experience as a buyer provided valuable practical insight that has since informed her academic teaching and research. Throughout her academic career, Professor Naude has supervised numerous honors’, master’s, and doctoral students, fostering a new generation of supply chain and business management professionals. Her commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and mentorship has had a lasting impact on both academia and industry. With over a 1099 citations, an h-index of 19, and an i10-index of 27, her research continues to shape discourse in supply chain management globally. At the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Professor Naude has held multiple leadership roles, including Acting Academic Leader for Teaching and Learning and Academic Leader for the Marketing and Supply Chain Management discipline. She has demonstrated exceptional administrative and academic leadership by mentoring staff, coordinating research initiatives, managing postgraduate supervision, and overseeing curriculum development. Her efforts have contributed significantly to staff development and research productivity within her discipline.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | Institution 

Featured Publications : 

Badenhorst-Weiss, J. A., Cilliers, D., & Ambe, I. M. (2018). Purchasing and supply management (pp. 7, 83–98). Van Schaik Publishers.

Naude, M., & Chiweshe, N. (2017). A proposed operational risk management framework for small and medium enterprises. South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences, 20(1), 10.

Acquah, I. S. K., Naude, M. J., & Sendra-García, J. (2021). Supply chain collaboration in the petroleum sector of an emerging economy: Comparing results from symmetrical and asymmetrical approaches. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 166, 1–11.

Dzuke, A., & Naude, M. J. A. (2015). Procurement challenges in the Zimbabwean public sector: A preliminary study. Journal of Transport and Supply Chain Management, 9(1), 1–9.

Naude, M. J., & Badenhorst-Weiss, J. A. (2011). Supply chain management problems at South African automotive component manufacturers. Southern African Business Review, 15(1).

Olushola Kolawole | Food supply chain | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Olushola Kolawole –  Food supply chain –  Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Kolawole’s research, contributions, and professional achievements strongly align with the Best Researcher Award category. His groundbreaking work in supply chain innovation, data-driven methodologies, and organizational learning models demonstrates:High-level originality and innovation in addressing food waste. A strong impact on industry and policy-making, ensuring sustainable solutions for supply chain management. Consistent excellence in academic publishing and thought leadership in global research forums. Influence on future research directions in Lean Six Sigma, supply chain optimization, and food security.

 

University of Bradford | United Kingdom

Profile
Scholar

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Olushola Adeborode KOLAWOLE embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in economics, earning a B.Sc. in Economics from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Nigeria, in July 2008. His academic curiosity and ambition led him to pursue further studies in logistics and supply chain management, culminating in a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Logistics and Supply Chain Management from Heriot-Watt University, Scotland, in November 2012. His master’s studies were fully funded by a £40,000 scholarship from the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), marking the beginning of his recognition as a promising scholar in the field.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Currently, Ieda Margarete Oro serves as a Researcher and Professor at UNOESC, where she contributes significantly to the Accounting Sciences Course and the Professional Master’s Degree in Administration. Her expertise extends to the Academic Doctorate program at UNOESC, where she mentors students and leads groundbreaking research initiatives. Her professional experience encompasses diverse areas, including Management Control Systems, Performance Evaluation, Corporate Finance, and Family Businesses. Between 2018 and 2020, she held the prestigious position of Editor-in-Chief of RACE, a well-regarded academic journal. She is also an active member of the scientific committee of the RCCC – CRCSC and an ad hoc associate editor at RAE-FGV, further showcasing her dedication to advancing research in her domain. Additionally, she is a distinguished member of the Santa Catarina Academy of Accounting Science, underscoring her influence in shaping accounting standards and practices.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Digital Transformation

Olushola’s research focuses on improving supply chain efficiency, particularly in the context of food waste reduction. His Ph.D. research developed a DMAIC-DLL framework aimed at detecting the root causes of food wastage while promoting organizational learning. His research contributions have been widely recognized, with publications in top-tier journals, including Industrial Marketing Management Journal, a 3-star journal.

His ongoing research interests include:

  • Developing advanced Lean Six Sigma methodologies for supply chain optimization.
  • Enhancing supply chain resilience in both developed and developing countries.
  • Bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications in business management.
  • Publishing in globally recognized 4-star and 3-star journals to influence managerial policies and practices.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Olushola has been the recipient of multiple prestigious scholarships and research grants, including: Fully funded PTDF scholarships for both his master’s (£40,000) and doctoral studies (£100,000). PTDF research grants worth £2000 and an additional £1300 for fieldwork and conference presentations. Grant of £2500 to attend the International Business Research Conference in Zurich, Switzerland. Funding to attend the World Business and Social Science Research Conference in Bangkok, Thailand. Scholarship and grants for research conferences and fieldwork in Nigeria. His professional memberships include affiliations with the: Council of Supply Chain Management Practitioners (CSCMP) International Association for Public Health Logistician (IAPHL) John and Elnora Ferguson Centre for African Studies (JEFCAS) Production and Operations Management Society (POMS)

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

hrough his research, Olushola has significantly contributed to the body of knowledge on supply chain optimization, particularly in food waste reduction and sustainability. His work has practical implications for industries seeking to: Minimize food loss in supply chains using Lean Six Sigma methodologies. Improve decision-making through advanced analytical frameworks. Promote sustainable business practices that align with global food security goals.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Olushola’s commitment to research and teaching ensures his lasting impact on the fields of operations and supply chain management. He envisions a future where: His DMAIC-DLL framework becomes a widely adopted methodology in supply chain optimization. He leads groundbreaking research in stakeholder improvisation and continuous improvement in procurement and logistics. He contributes to shaping policies that enhance supply chain resilience and efficiency on a global scale. He continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of researchers in business and management studies.

Conclusion

Olushola Adeborode KOLAWOLE exemplifies excellence in operations and supply chain management research. His academic achievements, professional expertise, and contributions to knowledge in Lean Six Sigma, food waste reduction, and logistics optimization position him as a thought leader in the field. As he continues to advance his research and engage with global academic and industry networks, his work will undoubtedly shape the future of sustainable supply chain management and organizational learning methodologies.

📚Publications

  • Addressing food waste and loss in the Nigerian food supply chain: Use of Lean Six Sigma and Double-Loop Learning

    Authors: OA Kolawole, JL Mishra, Z Hussain

    Journals: Industrial marketing management

    Leveraging organisational agility in B2B ecosystems to mitigate food waste and loss: A stakeholder perspective

    Authors: KO Adeborode, M Dora, C Umeh, SM Hina, T Eldabi

    Journals: Industrial Marketing Management

    An Evaluation of Climate Change and Water Scarcity as a Causative Factor of Political Instability in the Middle East Region: The Case of Syria

    Authors: OAK Abraham Abado

    Journals: International Journal of Social Science and Human Research