Alexandre Bougdour | Microbiologie | Research Excellence Distinction Award

Dr. Alexandre Bougdour | Microbiologie | Research Excellence Distinction Award

Charge de Recherche | Institut National De La Sante Et De la Recherche Medicale | France

Dr. Alexandre Bougdour is a senior research scientist at the Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) within the Institut for Advanced Biosciences in Grenoble, where he leads work in the Host-Pathogen Interactions & Immunity to Infection team. His research focuses on molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying host-pathogen interactions, particularly in parasitic diseases caused by Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium falciparum. He has made significant contributions to understanding how these parasites manipulate host signaling pathways, gene expression, and immune responses through effector proteins and epigenetic regulation. His work has uncovered novel targets for antiparasitic therapy, including the identification of spliceosome kinases and proteases as druggable components. He has co-authored highly cited papers in top tier journals such as Nature Microbiology, Science Translational Medicine, Cell Host & Microbe, EMBO Molecular Medicine, and Journal of Experimental Medicine. Dr. Bougdour’s achievements include awards from the National Institutes of Health and the Philippe Foundation, and his research has led to patents on antiparasitic peptides and innovative drug repurposing strategies. As principal investigator of major national research grants, he has established himself as a leader in infection biology and translational research. Beyond his scientific achievements, he contributes as a mentor, thesis examiner, and scientific advisor for biotech initiatives such as ApiMed Discovery, reflecting his commitment to bridging academic research and biomedical innovation.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Bougdour, A., Robert, M. G., Swale, C., Pachano, B., Dépéry, L., Bellini, V., Dard, C., Cannella, D., Corrao, C., Belmudes, L., Couté, Y., et al. (2025). Uncovering biomarkers for chronic toxoplasmosis detection highlights alternative pathways shaping parasite dormancy. EMBO Molecular Medicine.

Bougdour, A., Pachano, B., Farhat, D. C., Shahinas, M., von Velsen, J., Corrao, C., Belmudes, L., de Bock, P. J., Mas, C., Couté, Y., Bowler, M. W., et al. (2025). An ISWI-related chromatin remodeller regulates stage-specific gene expression in Toxoplasma gondii. Nature Microbiology.

Bougdour, A., Antunes, A. V., Shahinas, M., Swale, C., Farhat, D. C., Ramakrishnan, C., Bruley, C., Cannella, D., Robert, M. G., Corrao, C., Couté, Y., et al. (2023). In vitro production of cat-restricted Toxoplasma pre-sexual stages. Nature.

Yogavel, M., Bougdour, A., Mishra, S., Malhotra, N., Chhibber-Goel, J., Bellini, V., Harlos, K., Laleu, B., Hakimi, M. A., & Sharma, A. (2023). Targeting prolyl-tRNA synthetase via a series of ATP-mimetics to accelerate drug discovery against toxoplasmosis. PLoS Pathogens.

Ten Hoeve, A. L., Braun, L., Rodriguez, M. E., Olivera, G. C., Bougdour, A., Belmudes, L., Couté, Y., Saeij, J. P. J., Hakimi, M. A., & Barragan, A. (2022). The Toxoplasma effector GRA28 promotes parasite dissemination by inducing dendritic cell-like migratory properties in infected macrophages. Cell Host & Microbe.

Nadia Shamshad | Wireless Networks | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Nadia Shamshad | Wireless Networks | Best Researcher Award

Dalian University of Technoogy | China

Dr. Nadia S. Shamshad is a Software Engineer and Scholar in Software Engineering at Dalian University of Technology, China, with a strong research background in machine learning, reinforcement learning, deep learning, and multi-agent systems. Her work primarily focuses on adaptive control, localization, and optimization in dynamic and underwater sensor network environments, leveraging intelligent algorithms for precision and energy efficiency. She has contributed to several high-impact journals, including Scientific Reports, IEEE Access, and the IEEE Internet of Things Journal, where her research explores neural network-based localization, routing resilience, and machine learning-driven network adaptation. Her technical expertise spans Python, C++, MATLAB, NS 3, and network simulation, complemented by experience in both teaching and applied research. In academia, she has guided students in machine learning and cybersecurity applications, fostering critical thinking and innovation. Her professional experience also includes network administration and IT systems management, emphasizing performance optimization and cybersecurity. Dr. Shamshad’s research aims to bridge theoretical advancements and real world applications, contributing to intelligent, sustainable, and energy aware communication systems. She has received multiple academic honors, including prestigious scholarships and social service awards, and continues to advance interdisciplinary research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, wireless communication, and underwater sensing technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Shamshad, N., Sarwr, D., Almogren, A., Saleem, K., Munawar, A., Rehman, A. U., et al. (2024). Enhancing brain tumor classification by a comprehensive study on transfer learning techniques and model efficiency using MRI datasets. IEEE Access, 63, 1.

Ahmad, I., Liu, Y., Javeed, D., Shamshad, N., Sarwr, D., & Ahmad, S. (2020). A review of artificial intelligence techniques for selection & evaluation. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 853(1), 012055.

Shamshad, N., Wang, L., Saleem, K., Sarwr, D., Bharany, S., Almogren, A., et al. (2025). Advanced KNN-based cost-efficient algorithm for precision localization and energy optimization in dynamic underwater sensor networks. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 2182.

Shamshad, N., Wang, L., Sarwr, D., & Mohsan, S. A. H. (2025). Deeploc: A CNN-LSTM framework for NLOS-aware localization in underwater sensor networks. The Journal of Supercomputing, 81(16), 1–24.

Shamshad, N. D. S. (2020). A review of traffic flow prediction based on machine learning approaches. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 11(3), 5.

Ruiwen Wu | Aquatic Zoology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ruiwen Wu | Aquatic Zoology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Shanxi Normal University | China

Dr. Ruiwen Wu is a researcher at Shanxi Normal University whose work centers on the taxonomy, phylogeny, biodiversity, and conservation of freshwater mussels and other bivalves. Her research integrates morphological, molecular, and phylogenomic approaches to uncover hidden diversity, describe new species, and refine the systematic classification of Unionidae and related taxa. She has significantly contributed to understanding the evolutionary relationships and biogeography of endemic Chinese freshwater mussels, advancing knowledge on their genetic diversity, population structure, and ecological adaptations. Her publications in high impact journals such as Invertebrate Systematics, ZooKeys, Zoologica Scripta, Freshwater Biology, and BMC Genomics demonstrate her expertise in combining integrative taxonomy with conservation biology. Dr. Wu’s studies have also addressed broader ecological issues, including biodiversity loss due to habitat alteration and dam construction. Her research outputs include detailed phylogenetic reconstructions, mitochondrial genome analyses, and biogeographic assessments that inform species conservation strategies and contribute to global freshwater biodiversity studies. As an active reviewer for several international journals, she supports the advancement of rigorous scientific scholarship in evolutionary biology and aquatic ecology. Through her extensive body of work, Dr. Wu has established herself as a leading figure in freshwater mollusk systematics, contributing valuable insights into species diversity, evolutionary history, and conservation priorities within aquatic ecosystems.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Wu, R., (2025). Diversity, phylogeny and distribution of the subtribe Cristariina (Bivalvia: Unionidae: Unioninae) from China, with description of a new genus and species. Invertebrate Systematics.

Wu, R., (2025). Underestimated diversity: A new species of the genus Cuneopsis (Bivalvia, Unionidae, Unioninae) from Henan, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution.

Wu, R., (2025). Revisiting the genus Nodularia (Bivalvia, Unionidae): Mitochondrial phylogenomics and the description of a new species. Zoosystematics and Evolution.

Wu, R., (2025). Corrigendum to: Cryptic species, mitochondrial phylogenomics and historical biogeography in the endemic genus Schistodesmus (Bivalvia, Unionidae) from China.

Peijiang Zhang | Automatic Drive | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Peijiang Zhang | Automatic Drive | Best Researcher Award

School of Information, Chang’an University | China

Dr. Peijiang Zhang is a researcher specializing in human machine collaboration, bio inspired visual perception, 3D vision, precision measurement, and multi sensor information fusion. His research bridges the fields of computer vision, cognitive neuroscience, and artificial intelligence, focusing on developing biologically inspired perception models that emulate the cognitive and visual mechanisms of the human brain. Through his work, he has advanced methodologies for image quality assessment, defect detection in mechanical manufacturing, and visual modeling inspired by human visual cognition. His studies extend to 3D LiDAR based SLAM algorithms and integrated vehicle infrastructure cooperative perception systems, contributing to intelligent transportation and autonomous systems. Dr. Zhang’s current research aims to enhance human machine collaborative perception by integrating AI and brain computer interface technologies to improve system adaptability, real time decision making, and cooperative sensing performance. His scientific contributions have been recognized through publications in high impact journals and conferences, including research on cognitive load classification using spiking neural networks and cross-modal brain activity analysis. His work is directed toward advancing intelligent, adaptive, and cooperative perception systems for autonomous vehicles and smart transportation infrastructures, contributing to the next generation of bio inspired artificial intelligence and human-centered machine collaboration.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Zhang, P., Cheng, T., Jiang, Y., Zou, X., & Chen, X. (2025). fNIRS SpikeNet: A spiking neural network framework for cognitive load classification in cooperative learning environments. IEEE Transactions on Computational Social Systems.

Zou, X., Liu, X., Wang, K., Cheng, T., & Zhang, P. (2025, November 4). Cognitive load in novice UAV pilots: A preliminary fNIRS investigation. International Journal of Human–Computer Interaction.

Zou, X., Zhang, P., Cheng, T., & Fan, J. (2024, November 15). Effects of hazard perception training on driving behavior: An fNIRS-based assessment. In Proceedings of the 2024 3rd International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Human-Computer Interaction and Robotics (AIHCIR). IEEE.

Zhang, P., & Zou, X. (2024, November 15). Integrated approach for cross-modal brain activity classification through manual feature extraction. In Proceedings of the 2024 3rd International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Human-Computer Interaction and Robotics (AIHCIR). IEEE.

Dan Li | Computer Vision | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dan Li | Computer Vision | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | University of Shanghai for Science and Technology | China

Dr. Dan Li is a Lecturer at the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, specializing in decision theory, artificial intelligence management, and efficiency analysis. Her research integrates data driven decision making methods with emerging AI technologies to address complex management and operational challenges. She has contributed to advancements in efficiency measurement, intelligent systems, and optimization through funded research projects supported by national and provincial foundations. Dr. Li’s publications appear in leading journals such as Knowledge-Based Systems, Advanced Engineering Informatics, Omega, Journal of the Operational Research Society, and Journal of Cleaner Production, where she explores topics including AI based object detection, data envelopment analysis, and performance evaluation of industrial and service systems. Her work bridges theoretical modeling with practical applications in sectors such as finance, education, and sustainability. In addition to her research, she actively contributes to the academic community as a reviewer for high-impact international journals and engages in interdisciplinary collaborations focusing on the integration of artificial intelligence into management science. Through her innovative approaches and international research engagements, Dr. Li continues to advance the fields of decision science and AI-driven management solutions.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Tang, J., Li, D., Yang, J., Chen, J., & Yuan, R. (2025). Leveraging large visual models for enhanced object detection: An improved SAM-YOLOv5 model. Knowledge-Based Systems, 114757.

Yang, J., Emrouznejad, A., & Li, D. (2024, October 25). An improved game cross-efficiency approach with dual-role factors for measuring the efficiency of Chinese “985 project” universities. Journal of the Operational Research Society.

Chen, C.-M., & Li, D. (2024, July). Weighing in on the average weights: Measuring corporate social performance (CSP) score using DEA. Omega, 103072.

Yang, J., Li, D., & Li, Y. (2024, January). A generalized data envelopment analysis approach for fixed cost allocation with preference information. Omega, 102948.

Yang, J., & Li, D. (2022, June 9). Finding the single efficient unit in data envelopment analysis with flexible measures. Journal of the Operational Research Society.

Muhammad Akram | Bioinformatics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Akram | Bioinformatics | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | University of Management and Technology | Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Akram is a biochemist and biotechnology researcher whose work bridges molecular biology, metabolic engineering, and pharmaceutical biotechnology. His research focuses on the metabolic engineering of microbial strains for the sustainable production of natural compounds, therapeutic proteins, and pharmaceuticals. He has made significant contributions to the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites from both natural and heterologous hosts, the bioinformatics visualization of protein ligand interactions, and the development of microbial systems for nanoparticle synthesis and biomedical applications. His expertise also extends to protein engineering, synthetic biology, and cancer genetics, with a strong emphasis on translating laboratory findings into industrial and health-related innovations. Dr. Akram’s research has been published in high impact international journals, covering topics such as engineered Yarrowia lipolytica for plant metabolite production, CRISPR based disease control, and nanobiotechnology. He has actively participated in international scientific conferences and workshops, demonstrating a commitment to advancing interdisciplinary collaboration and applied biosciences. As an academic and mentor, he has supervised numerous postgraduate and undergraduate students in biochemistry and biotechnology, fostering research capacity in emerging areas of synthetic and molecular biosciences. His professional service includes peer reviewing for several international journals and contributing to academic workshops on molecular biology and generative AI in scientific research, reflecting his dedication to both research excellence and modern pedagogical innovation.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Mahboob, A., Akram, M., Rauf, A., Saidmuratova, M., Djabbarov, I., Ali, S. K., Alamri, A. A., Asimov, A., Bahadur, A., Iqbal, S., et al. (2025, November 4). Comprehensive functional and profiling analysis of circular RNAs in type 2 diabetes mellitus: Unveiling novel and biomarker therapeutic targets. Network Modeling Analysis in Health Informatics and Bioinformatics.

Akram, M. (2025, June 29). Bioremediation of textile disperse dyes using white-rot fungi Trametes versicolor. International Journal of Innovations in Science & Technology.

Akram, M. (2025, June 28). Cyanidin-3-glucoside from Litchi: Extraction techniques and bioactivity evaluation. Riphah Journal of Allied Health Sciences.

Akram, M. (2025, May 22). Bioremediation of textile disperse dyes using white-rot fungi Trametes gibbosa. TSF Journal of Biology.

Akram, M. (2024, October 24). Microbiological, heavy metal and antioxidant analysis of some commonly used spices in Pakistani cuisine. Riphah Journal of Allied Health Sciences.

Christine Saleh | Women’s Health | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Christine Saleh | Women’s Health | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | Western Sydney University | Australia

Ms. Christine Saleh is a Health Science professional with a strong academic foundation in Health Promotion and Women’s Health. Her research background reflects a focused interest in improving public health outcomes through the promotion of healthy lifestyles and preventive health strategies, particularly in relation to children’s health and women’s wellbeing. She has engaged in applied research exploring self-care practices, pelvic pain management, and health behavior interventions, contributing to initiatives that bridge research with community-based health promotion. Professionally, she has extensive experience within the higher education and healthcare sectors, providing administrative, advisory, and research support in academic and clinical settings. Her roles have emphasized effective communication, student engagement, and the coordination of research-related activities, enhancing the operational and research functions of her institutions. She has demonstrated proficiency in managing complex administrative systems, supporting postgraduate research programs, and facilitating health-related projects. Her background in pharmacy assistance has further strengthened her understanding of community health service delivery and patient engagement. Fluent in English and Arabic, she brings a multicultural perspective to her professional and research endeavors. Ms. Saleh’s combined expertise in research, administration, and community health underpins her commitment to advancing evidence-based health promotion and public health initiatives that foster wellbeing across diverse populations.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Saleh, C., Hawkey, A., & Armour, M. (2025). Perceptions and experiences of menstrual pain among Middle Eastern women living in Australia. Culture, Health & Sexuality. Advance online publication.

Pinar Sezer | Financial Inclusion | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Pinar Sezer | Financial Inclusion | Best Researcher Award

Hacettepe University | Turkey

Dr. Pinar Sezer is a researcher in the Department of Economics at Hacettepe University whose work focuses on applied microeconomics, labor economics, environmental and energy economics, and gender and development. Her research examines the intersections between labor market dynamics, gender disparities, and economic development, as well as the interactions between energy consumption, capital use, and environmental outcomes in emerging economies. She has contributed to international and national academic discourse through articles in respected journals such as Feminist Economics, Borsa İstanbul Review, and Mulkiye Dergisi, addressing issues such as gendered effects of welfare regimes, financial inclusion, and time poverty. Her book chapters explore topics in innovation, market structure, and macroeconomic relations in open economies. Dr. Sezer has also presented papers at numerous international conferences, engaging with subjects like exchange rate determination, inflation persistence, and energy demand modeling. Her teaching experience spans a broad range of courses in economics, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, labor economics, urban economics, and the Turkish economy. She has participated in research projects supported by national funding bodies such as TÜBİTAK, contributing to studies on gender-based wage discrimination and labor force participation in Turkey. Through her interdisciplinary approach, Dr. Sezer integrates theoretical and empirical analyses to address contemporary economic challenges, with a particular emphasis on sustainable development, social equity, and the evolving dynamics of the Turkish economy.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Sezer, P., Öztürk, S., & Başar, D. (2025, October 25). Borsa İstanbul Review. Elsevier.

Sezer, P., Öztürk, S., & Başar, D. (2023, July 8). Toplumsal cinsiyet perspektifinden zaman yoksulluğu. Mülkiye Dergisi.

Zahra Askari | Water | Best Research Article Award

Dr. Zahra Askari | Water | Best Research Article Award

Lorestan University | Iran

Dr. Zahra Askari is a postdoctoral researcher in water science whose work focuses on the complex interactions between hydrological processes, sediment dynamics, and climate change. Her research integrates experimental modeling and computational analysis to explore bed-load sediment transport, bed morphology changes, and the hydraulic behavior of open channels under unsteady flow conditions. She has contributed to advancing flood simulation and river discharge forecasting by applying soft computing, hybrid time series models, and machine learning approaches. Her academic interests span sediment transport mechanics, flood control, and the impact of climatic variability on river systems. Dr. Askari has authored and co-authored several publications in international journals such as Applied Water Science, Geosciences, Chinese Soil and Water Conservation, and Acta Geophysica. She is skilled in using advanced analytical and simulation tools, including Flow3D, HECRAS, MATLAB, and Python, to model complex hydraulic and hydrological phenomena. In addition to her research, she has experience teaching subjects related to hydraulic systems and applied mathematics at the university level. Recognized for her academic excellence, she has received awards for outstanding performance during her graduate studies and has served as a reviewer for scientific journals. Her ongoing work contributes to developing sustainable water management strategies and improving predictive modeling techniques for hydrological and environmental applications.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Askari, Z., Samadi-Boroujeni, H., Fattahi-Nafchi, R., Yousefi, N., Eslamian, S., … (2017). Prediction comparison of flow resistance in channels with rounded and angular coarse rough beds. American Research Journal of Civil and Structural Engineering, 3(1), 1–15.

Yousefi, N., Reza, K. S., & Eslamian, S. A. Z. (2016). Estimating width of the stable channels using multivariable mathematical models. Arabian Journal of Geosciences.

Moughani, S. K., Osmani, A., Nohani, E., Khoshtinat, S., Jalilian, T., Askari, Z., … (2024). Groundwater spring potential prediction using a deep-learning algorithm. Acta Geophysica, 72(2), 1033–1054.

Marani-Barzani, M., Eslamian, S., Amoushahi-Khouzani, M., Gandomkar, A., … (2017). Assessment of aridity using geographical information system in Zayandeh-Roud Basin, Isfahan, Iran. International Journal of Mining Science (IJMS), 3(2), 49–61.

Askari, Z., Afzalimehr, H., Singh, V. P., & Fattahi, R. (2015). Prediction of flow velocity near inclined surfaces with varying roughness. International Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, 4(1), 1–9.

Wei-Lin Chen | Adolescent Health | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wei-Lin Chen | Adolescent Health | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor | National Sun Yat-Sen University | Taiwan

Dr. Wei-Lin Chen is an Associate Professor at the Center for Teacher Education, National Sun Yat sen University, with a joint appointment at the Institute of Education. His research focuses on how family conditions and educational environments interact to shape young adults’ development, particularly in relation to adverse experiences, health and well-being, and educational outcomes. He explores evidence-based educational practices that support marginalized and underrepresented groups, including Indigenous Peoples and individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds, and conducts cross-cultural and cross-societal comparative studies. Employing quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method approaches, Dr. Chen investigates how factors such as self-esteem, purpose in life, and institutional contexts contribute to educational and social flourishing. His funded research projects have examined microaggressions in learning environments, mental health, and the impact of institutional types on student development. He has been recognized for his teaching excellence and scholarly contributions through multiple awards and international visiting scholar appointments. His professional experience spans academia, government research offices, and policy analysis centers, reflecting a strong interdisciplinary background that bridges educational research, policy, and practice.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Chen, W.-L., & Chen, J. H. (2019). Consequences of inadequate sleep during the college years: Sleep deprivation, grade point average, and college graduation. Preventive Medicine, 124, 23–28.

Chen, W.-L., Elchert, D., & Asikin-Garmager, A. (2020). Comparing the effects of teacher collaboration on student performance in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore. Compare: A Journal of Comparative and International Education, 50(7), 1042–1060.

Feng, F. I., & Chen, W.-L. (2019). The effect of principals’ social justice leadership on teachers’ academic optimism in Taiwan. Education and Urban Society, 51(9), 1245–1264.

Chen, W.-L., & Chen, J. H. (2019). Sleep deprivation and the development of leadership and need for cognition during the college years. Journal of Adolescence, 73, 95–99.

Chen, W.-L., & Chan, Y.-W. (2020). Can higher education increase students’ moral reasoning? The role of student engagement in the U.S. Journal of Moral Education.