Mr. Hani Tarabichi | Change Management | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hani Tarabichi | Change Management | Best Researcher Award

Aalto University, Finland

Author profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Hani Tarabichi’s academic journey is rooted in a multidisciplinary foundation that has shaped his unique perspective on global development and innovation. He earned his Bachelor of Computer Science from Eastern Michigan University in April 1991, providing him with a solid technical base. Recognizing the intertwined nature of technology, economics, and global affairs, he went on to complete a Master of Economics in Trade, Development, and Planning from the same institution in June 1994. These formative academic experiences fostered in him a deep appreciation for systems thinking, problem-solving, and cross-cultural collaboration.

Currently, Hani is pursuing a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering & Management at Aalto University, expected to be completed by December 2025. His doctoral journey reflects his continued passion for integrating strategic planning with human-centered approaches, particularly in the context of humanitarian and international development initiatives. Aalto University, known for its interdisciplinary innovation and research excellence, offers a fitting environment for his intellectually ambitious and socially impactful goals.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Hani Tarabichi has built a distinguished professional path characterized by strategic leadership, educational innovation, and international collaboration. As the Strategy Lead at WiTLAB (World in Transition LAB) at Aalto University since December 2023, Hani has been at the forefront of shaping the lab’s vision and impact. WiTLAB, an interdisciplinary program focusing on humanitarian architecture and life-wide learning, benefits significantly from his strategic foresight. He successfully crafted a roadmap for growth and internationalization, strengthened stakeholder networks, and facilitated memorandums of understanding with international NGOs and universities in the Global South.

Prior to this, from October 2022 to November 2023, Hani served as a Lecturer and Mentor in the IDBM (International Design & Business Management) program at Aalto University. Here, his role encompassed co-lecturing in courses like Business Model Design and Advanced Topics in IDBM. His contributions helped elevate student satisfaction scores, enhance curriculum relevance, and introduce critical perspectives on decolonizing peace and global development. Moreover, his mentorship notably increased thesis completion rates, a testament to his ability to guide and inspire future professionals.

Earlier roles, including his time as a Program Manager (details of which were partially provided), also reflect his extensive experience in orchestrating academic and capacity-building initiatives.

🌍 Contributions and Research Focus

Hani Tarabichi’s work sits at the intersection of strategy, education, and social impact. His contributions span strategic planning, interdisciplinary education, and the cultivation of global learning communities. At WiTLAB, he leverages research to promote life-wide learning, humanitarian responses, and sustainable development. His focus is not only on addressing immediate educational needs but also on building long-term capacity in marginalized or transitional communities through inclusive and participatory approaches.

In the IDBM program, his efforts brought a critical global lens to design and business pedagogy, challenging conventional narratives and introducing topics such as the decolonization of peace-building efforts. His research and programmatic focus emphasize collaborative problem-solving, integrating insights from business, design, and technology to create solutions for complex global challenges.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

While Hani’s professional style leans toward collaboration over personal accolades, his impact is nonetheless recognized through tangible outcomes. Under his leadership at WiTLAB, stakeholder engagement increased by 28%, and digital outreach saw significant growth—with viewership up by 38% and social media followers rising by 32%. His teaching in IDBM earned him student evaluation scores of 4.6 out of 5, and his content development efforts led to an 18% increase in participant satisfaction.

Moreover, his success in securing new organizations as case study partners enriched the program’s diversity and relevance. These metrics are reflective of both peer and institutional recognition for his contributions to academic innovation and engagement.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Hani’s influence extends well beyond the classroom or boardroom. Through his work at Aalto University, he is shaping a new generation of changemakers equipped with the skills, empathy, and systems-thinking mindset necessary for global problem-solving. His emphasis on humanitarian architecture and life-wide learning speaks to his belief in education as a tool not just for employment, but for empowerment and societal transformation.

By fostering inclusive collaborations between Northern institutions and Global South partners, Hani is actively contributing to a more equitable academic and development landscape. His model encourages reciprocity, shared learning, and sustainable partnerships.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Hani Tarabichi is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the domains of strategic educational reform, interdisciplinary program development, and global south-north partnerships. His Ph.D. research is expected to deepen his insights into how strategic planning and design thinking can be applied in humanitarian contexts, potentially influencing both academic literature and on-the-ground practices.

Hani’s legacy will likely be felt in the programs he develops, the students he mentors, and the cross-cultural dialogues he facilitates. His career reflects a commitment to bridging theory and practice, always grounded in the belief that innovation, when driven by empathy and strategy, can truly transform the world.

Notable publications 

Public sector innovation through nested experimental spaces: Reinventing the immigrant integration system

  • Authors: Hani H. Tarabichi, Henri A. Schildt, Farah F. Kodeih

  • Journal: Research Policy

  • Year: 2025

Prof Jinn P. Chu | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Prof Jinn P. Chu | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taiwan

Author Profile

Orchid 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits: The Spark of Scientific Excellence

Dr. Jinn P. Chu’s academic journey began with his doctoral studies at one of the world’s most prestigious engineering institutions — the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), where he pursued a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) from August 1988 to May 1992. This formative period laid the foundation for his lifelong fascination with materials, especially thin-film technologies and metallic glasses. During this time, he honed his expertise in materials behavior, surface modification, and nanostructure fabrication, setting the stage for the exceptional academic and research career that would follow.

🏛️ Professional Endeavors: Climbing the Academic Ladder

After obtaining his doctorate, Dr. Chu returned to Taiwan and began his academic career at the National Taiwan Ocean University in 1993. Over the next 14 years, he rose through the ranks — from Associate Professor to Professor and Chair of the Institute of Materials Engineering. In 2007, he joined the Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) at the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (Taiwan Tech), marking the beginning of an era defined by leadership and innovation.

His administrative capabilities were quickly recognized: he held multiple leadership roles at Taiwan Tech, including Vice Dean of the College of Engineering, Dean and Vice Dean of the Office of Research and Development, and even served as Vice President from 2018 to 2021. His deep involvement in institutional growth reflects a commitment not just to research, but also to educational and organizational excellence. Since 2022, he has been serving as a Chair Professor — a position that acknowledges both his stature and sustained impact in the field.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus: The Art of Metallic Glass

Dr. Chu’s work focuses predominantly on thin-film metallic glasses, an area in which he is considered a global pioneer. His research bridges basic materials science and real-world applications, particularly in fields such as energy, healthcare, biosensing, optoelectronics, and nanotechnology.

Among his most impactful works is the development of metallic glass nanotube arrays, which have proven useful in creating highly sensitive biosensors and flexible electronics. His research articles, such as those published in Nature Materials, Materials Today, npj Clean Water, and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, demonstrate the range and depth of his scientific explorations — from superelasticity to high-performance separation membranes.

He has also made significant strides in industry-relevant research, acting as Principal Investigator (PI) for collaborations with companies like Foxlink Precision Industry, Dupont Taiwan, and Sino MG Technology. Moreover, his co-leadership in the EU-funded nanoCOOL project highlights his global R&D reach.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition: A Life of Achievement

Dr. Chu’s extensive list of awards is a testament to his academic excellence and innovation. He has repeatedly appeared in the Top 2% Most Influential Scientists rankings by Stanford University (2021–2023), signaling consistent global impact. He has also received the Outstanding Research Award from Taiwan’s Ministry of Science and Technology, the Taipei Tech Distinguished Alumni Award, and the Tong Ho Steel Foundation Award.

In the realm of invention and innovation, Dr. Chu’s contributions have earned him multiple national innovation awards, two silver medals at the Concours Lépine International in Paris, and accolades from the American Chemical Society during Japan’s nano tech event.

His patent portfolio (50 and counting) includes significant breakthroughs such as needle-sharpness preservation technologies and nano-structured medical tools, which further illustrate his ingenuity and practical focusImpact and Influence: Shaping the Global Materials Community

Beyond his personal research, Dr. Chu has been a pillar in the international materials science community. He has served as Vice President and Fellow of the Materials Research Society–Taiwan (MRS-T), Chair of the AVS-Taiwan Chapter, and President of the Taiwan Association for Coatings and Thin Films Technology (TACT).

He also contributes to the academic publishing world as Associate Editor for the AVS Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology, and as a longstanding editorial board member of Thin Solid Films. These roles underscore his influence in shaping the direction of scholarly discourse in materials science.

As a respected reviewer for major national and international funding bodies — including Taiwan’s MOST and Germany’s DFG — Dr. Chu has helped guide the development of research agendas far beyond his own lab.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions: A Vision Still Unfolding

With over 230 peer-reviewed publications, 6,500+ citations, and a Google Scholar H-index of 45, Dr. Chu’s academic footprint is as expansive as it is impactful. His work continues to inspire a new generation of materials scientists, particularly in the innovative use of metallic glasses in next-gen technologies.

As a mentor, leader, and visionary, Dr. Jinn P. Chu’s legacy is firmly established. Yet, his recent works, such as the 2025 publications on energy harvesting nanogenerators and icephobic surfaces, suggest that his most transformative contributions may still be ahead. In the intersection of academia, industry, and innovation, he remains a dynamic force propelling materials science into the future. 🧪🌍

📝Notable Publications

Effects of Processing Parameters on the Corrosion Performance of Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation Grown Oxide on Commercially Pure Aluminum

Author(s): Getinet Asrat Mengesha, Jinn Chu, Bih-Show Lou, Jyh-Wei Lee

Journal: Metals
Year: 2020

Dr. SHAOPING JIANG | Cross-Cultural Leadership | Global Leadership Impact Award

Dr. SHAOPING JIANG | Cross-Cultural Leadership | Global Leadership Impact Award

Author Profile 

Scopus  

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Your academic journey began with a strong commitment to understanding the complex dynamics of law, sustainability, and social responsibility. Early on, you displayed a passion for bridging the gap between legal frameworks and real-world environmental challenges—an interest that would later evolve into a distinguished career. With a solid educational foundation that blends legal scholarship and policy awareness, you were well-positioned to make an impact on both academic and legislative fronts. This foundational period laid the groundwork for your current multidisciplinary research that lies at the intersection of environmental law, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and policy innovation. 🌍📚

💼 Professional Endeavors

Today, as an Associate Research Fellow at the Institute of Ecological Civilization at Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University (ZAFU), you are at the forefront of ecological research and policy design. The Institute, a nationally recognized think tank, serves as a vital platform for environmental science and sustainability in China, and your role there underscores your leadership in the field. Simultaneously, your directorship at the Zhejiang Province Foreign-Related Legal Talents Cultivating Base demonstrates your dedication to nurturing the next generation of global legal professionals. As a master’s supervisor at the School of Humanities and Law, you guide students with your interdisciplinary knowledge and encourage them to think critically about green development, justice, and governance. 👩‍🏫🌐

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Your research stands out for its innovative integration of CSR, sustainability policy, and behavioral change—particularly within the service industry. You have led multiple provincial and ministerial-level projects that aim to reform and optimize China’s business environment, showing a keen understanding of how law and policy intersect with economic development. Notably, you contributed to the drafting of the Regulation of Zhejiang Province on the Promotion of the Express Delivery Industry, highlighting your involvement in policy-making that directly affects industry practices and environmental performance.

As a scholar, your publications are impactful and internationally recognized. The article “Corporate Social Responsibility Needs Base Philosophy: An Integrative Multidimensional Approach to Hospitality Employees’ Green Behavior” (SSCI Q1, IF 11.7) offers a new framework for understanding how internal motivations shape environmental conduct in the hospitality sector. You also delve into broader economic and ecological questions, such as your work in “Tourism Subindustry Level Environmental Impacts in the US” and “Does the Tourism and Travel Industry Really Matter to Economic Growth and Environmental Degradation in the US?”—both significant contributions to the literature on tourism sustainability and environmental economics. 📑🔬

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Your commitment to excellence has been widely recognized. You are a member of the prestigious High-Level Talent Program in Hangzhou, an acknowledgment of your leadership and innovation in academic research. Furthermore, your role as a peer reviewer for Humanities & Social Sciences Communications, a journal under the Nature portfolio, speaks volumes about your credibility and standing within the global scholarly community. Additionally, your advisory position at SINOTALKS®, founded by Dr. Mei Gechlik (formerly of Stanford Law School’s China Guiding Cases Project), places you within a select group of thought leaders who are actively shaping international understanding of Chinese law and policy. 🏆🌐

🌍 Impact and Influence

Your influence goes beyond research papers and policy documents. As the Director of the Zhejiang Province Foreign-Related Legal Talents Cultivating Base, you play a key role in facilitating legal diplomacy through international conferences and competitions. By addressing ecological justice, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and comparative climate policy between China and the United States, you create platforms for global exchange and mutual learning. Your work not only informs policy but also transforms how students, academics, and legal professionals approach sustainability challenges. 🔄🧑‍⚖️

✨ Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, your legacy is one of bridge-building—between disciplines, nations, and generations. Whether mentoring students, shaping policy, or contributing to international dialogues, your work exemplifies the values of sustainability, equity, and collaboration. As China and the world face increasing environmental challenges, your voice will remain essential in guiding green policy, responsible business practices, and sustainable governance.

📝Notable Publications

 Corporate Social Responsibility Needs Base Philosophy: An Integrative Multidimensional Approach to Hospitality Employees’ Green Innovative Behaviors

Authors: Jiang, Shaoping; Bibi, Sughra; Lyu, Jiaying; Khan, Asif; Li, Zhichen
Journal: International Journal of Hospitality Management
Year: 2025

Dr. Abdulwahab Salah | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Abdulwahab Salah | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Author Profile 

Google Scholar 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Abdulwahab Ali Hussein Salah’s academic journey began with exceptional promise, marked by a strong foundation in chemistry. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Sana’a University in Yemen in 2005, graduating with honors and ranking first in his class with an impressive overall score of 88.57%. This early distinction foreshadowed his future trajectory in academic excellence. Driven by a deep passion for chemistry, he continued his studies in China, pursuing both his M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees at the prestigious Northeast Normal University. His Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, completed with a stellar 94.0% score, focused on the innovative synthesis and application of noble metal nanoparticles and nitrogen-doped porous graphene composites for electrochemical sensors. This work laid the groundwork for his growing interest in electrochemistry and materials science. Building on this, he advanced to a Ph.D. program in Inorganic Chemistry, where he achieved an exceptional score of 95.13%, completing a thesis on “Advanced Electrocatalysts of Ruthenium-Based Composites: Synthesis, Characterization, and Application for Green Hydrogen Production.” Under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Yang-Guang Li, he honed his skills in electrocatalysis and energy-related applications, setting the stage for a career dedicated to sustainable energy research.

💼 Professional Endeavors

After completing his doctorate, Dr. Salah embarked on his professional career as a Postdoctoral Fellow in early 2024. He currently serves at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) in Saudi Arabia, where he continues to engage in high-impact research focused on sustainable and green technologies. His postdoctoral work continues to reflect the academic rigor and intellectual curiosity that has marked his career thus far. At KFUPM, he has access to world-class research facilities and collaborates with a global community of scientists and scholars, further broadening the scope and relevance of his scientific inquiry.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Salah’s research lies at the exciting intersection of inorganic chemistry, materials science, and electrochemical energy conversion. His primary focus has been on the development of ruthenium-based electrocatalysts for green hydrogen production, a field critical to the global transition toward clean and renewable energy sources. His doctoral work contributed new insights into the structural and functional optimization of these catalysts, targeting cost-effectiveness and scalability for real-world applications. Furthermore, his earlier contributions to electrochemical sensor technology—using advanced graphene-based nanocomposites—demonstrate his versatility as a chemist. His work addresses some of the most urgent challenges of our time, including energy storage, conversion efficiency, and environmental sustainability. These themes are especially critical for countries and regions striving for energy security and carbon neutrality.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Salah’s academic excellence is reflected in his outstanding grades and academic achievements across all levels of education. He has consistently ranked at the top of his cohort, demonstrating a high level of discipline and intellectual ability. His research contributions have been recognized through inclusion in international research platforms such as ORCID, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. His growing number of citations and scholarly collaborations highlight the relevance of his work within the global scientific community. Additionally, his professional association with KFUPM—a leading university in science and engineering—underscores his position as a respected figure in the academic and research fields of chemistry and energy materials.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Salah’s research has implications that extend well beyond the laboratory. By focusing on cost-effective and efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen production, he is contributing to the development of sustainable energy systems that could power future societies. In regions with high energy demand and limited renewable infrastructure, such as the Middle East and North Africa, his work can help shift energy paradigms and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. His academic journey—from Yemen to China and now Saudi Arabia—illustrates not only his international outlook but also his potential to bridge scientific innovation across diverse geopolitical regions.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Abdulwahab Salah is poised to make even greater contributions to the field of energy materials and electrochemistry. His solid grounding in both fundamental science and applied technology places him at a strategic advantage in addressing complex energy challenges. As he continues to publish and collaborate internationally, his influence is expected to grow in both academic and industrial spheres. Dr. Salah is also well-positioned to mentor the next generation of researchers in sustainable chemistry, passing on his expertise and commitment to excellence. His career thus far stands as a beacon of perseverance, innovation, and purpose—qualities that define a true scientific leader.

📝Notable Publications

Advanced Ru/i/WC@NPC Multi‐Interfacial Electrocatalyst for Efficient Sustainable Hydrogen and Chlor‐Alkali Co‐Production

Author(s): A. Salah, L. Zhang, H. Tan, F. Yu, Z. Lang, N. Al‐Ansi, Y. Li
Journal: Advanced Energy Materials
Year: 2022

 Tetraphenylethylene-based covalent organic frameworks as fluorescent chemosensor for rapid sensitive recognition and selective “turn-on” fluorescence detection of trace-level analytes

Author(s): J. Xiu, N. Zhang, C. Li, A. Salah, G. Wang
Journal: Microporous and Mesoporous Materials
Year: 2021

 Ru/Mo₂C@NC Schottky Junction-Loaded Hollow Nanosphere as Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalyst

Author(s): A. Salah, H.D. Ren, N. Al-Ansi, F. Yu, Z.L. Lang, Y.G. Tan, H. Li
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A
Year: 2021

Fabrication of folate functionalized polyoxometalate nanoparticle to simultaneously detect H₂O₂ and sarcosine in colorimetry

Author(s): B. Mbage, Y. Li, H. Si, X. Zhang, Y. Li, X. Wang, A. Salah, K. Zhang
Journal: Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical
Year: 2020

 Pt nanoparticles supported on nitrogen-doped porous graphene for sensitive detection of Tadalafil

Author(s): A. Salah, M. Hassan, J. Liu, M. Li, X. Bo, J.C. Ndamanisha, L. Guo
Journal: Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
Year: 2018

Dr. Ntalane Sello Seroka | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ntalane Sello Seroka | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

CSIR, South Africa

Author Profile 

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Ntalane Sello Seroka’s journey into the world of science and innovation began with a solid foundation in the physical sciences. He earned his Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Physical Sciences from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University in Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa, in 2016. Driven by a profound curiosity for chemistry and a passion to harness science for societal good, he advanced to complete his BSc Honours in Chemistry at the same institution in 2017.

His academic trajectory continued upward with a Master of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Johannesburg in 2019, where he conducted research under the supervision of Prof. M.A. Mamo. His MSc laid the groundwork for deeper investigations into sustainable materials and nanoscience. This academic foundation culminated in a Ph.D. in Chemistry in 2023, with a thesis focused on the green synthesis of novel polycrystalline silicon. This research, anchored in environmental consciousness and technological innovation, marked the beginning of his impactful contributions to sustainable energy solutions in Africa.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Currently, Dr. Seroka serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow under the prestigious National Research Foundation’s Professional Development Programme (NRF-PDP) at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in Pretoria, South Africa. Based at the CSIR’s Energy Centre within the Smart Places Cluster, his research falls under the mentorship of Dr. Luo Hongze in the Electrochemical Energy Technologies group.

At CSIR, Dr. Seroka’s work is deeply embedded in the development of innovative, affordable energy storage systems. He fabricates high-performance electrode materials using biomass waste, aiming to optimize cathodes and anodes for lithium-ion batteries. His work extends into exploring biochar-based catalyst supports for fuel cells—including direct methanol and polymer electrolyte membrane types—as well as exploring alternative battery technologies such as sodium-ion and zinc-ion systems.

This combination of sustainability, nanotechnology, and energy research is not only cutting-edge but purpose-driven, targeting the real energy challenges faced by impoverished communities across Africa.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Seroka’s scientific contributions span a wide range of fields within materials chemistry and energy technologies. His research focuses on creating low-cost, environmentally friendly materials for energy storage and conversion. He is particularly skilled in developing electroactive nanocomposites and interfacial electronic devices using silicon-based thin films sourced from biomass.

With 24 international peer-reviewed journal articles to his name, Dr. Seroka has carved out a significant niche in green energy materials. His technical proficiency covers a broad array of electrochemical, analytical, and materials characterization techniques—competencies honed in CSIR’s state-of-the-art laboratories.

In addition to his research, he plays a significant academic role as a co-supervisor to six MSc and six Ph.D. students at the University of the Western Cape. He has already successfully supervised five MSc and one Ph.D. student, a testament to his commitment to nurturing the next generation of African scientists.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Seroka’s pioneering work has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, he achieved international acclaim by winning First Prize in the “Beautiful China, Dynamic Huzhou” Global Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition – African Division. That same year, he was nominated for the prestigious USERN (Universal Scientific Education and Research Network) Prize, which recognizes exceptional early-career scientists for their contributions to science and society.

He is a member of the South African Chemical Institute (SACI) and maintains active researcher profiles across platforms. His citation metrics include a Scopus H-index of 7, a Google Scholar H-index of 8, and an i-10 index of 6, highlighting both the impact and consistency of his scholarly output.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his research, mentorship, and collaborative endeavors, Dr. Seroka has contributed meaningfully to both national and international scientific communities. His work on bio-based silicon materials and sustainable electrode design offers promising solutions for energy access in underdeveloped regions—especially vital in areas where traditional infrastructure is lacking.

His research helps bridge the gap between scientific discovery and practical implementation, particularly in rural African communities. By combining chemistry, nanoscience, and renewable energy, Dr. Seroka’s influence extends beyond academic circles to include social and environmental impact.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Seroka stands as a leading light in the drive toward sustainable energy in Africa. His vision is clear: to develop low-cost, high-performance energy technologies using locally available and renewable resources. His research agenda is poised to not only advance the frontiers of materials chemistry but also catalyze real-world solutions to pressing energy problems.

Through continued collaboration, publication, mentorship, and innovation, Dr. Seroka’s legacy will be one of empowerment—scientific advancement that fuels communities and transforms lives.

📝Notable Publications

Characterization of ZrC-V-Ti-ZrC multilayer hydrogen storage thin films prepared by e-beam evaporator

Authors: M.M. Rampai, C.B. Mtshali, E. Nemukula, N.S. Seroka, L.E. Khotseng
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
Year: 2025

Farshad Rakhshandehroo -Situational Leadership-Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Farshad Rakhshandehroo -Situational Leadership-Best Researcher Award

Islamic Azad University-Iran 

Authour Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

Farshad Rakhshandehroo was born on October 12, 1978, in Iran. He started his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture Engineering from the Islamic Azad University, Varamin branch, in 2001. His interest in plant pathology led him to pursue a Master's degree in Plant Pathology with a focus on Curriculum Virology at the Islamic Azad University of Tehran in 2003. Building on his Master's studies, he earned his Ph.D. in Plant Pathology with a specialization in Curriculum Virology in 2007, also from the Islamic Azad University of Tehran.

Professional Endeavors

Since 2003, Farshad Rakhshandehroo has been a faculty member at the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. He holds the position of Assistant Professor and has been actively involved in teaching and research throughout his academic career. His teaching responsibilities span various levels, including Ph.D., M.Sc., and B.Sc. students, covering topics such as plant virology, molecular genetics, and biotechnology in plant pathology.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Rakhshandehroo has been engaged in various research activities related to plant virology, with a particular focus on Iranian vegetable and fruit tree crops. His laboratory interests and research skills include a wide range of molecular techniques such as DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, cloning, sequencing, and protein expression. His expertise extends to bioinformatics, phylogenetic analysis, and serological techniques.

Contributions and Research Focus

Farshad Rakhshandehroo has made significant contributions to the field of plant virology. His research activities encompass the molecular characterization of plant viruses, studying the genetic demography and population changes of plant viruses, and exploring plant innate resistances (RNAi) in plant-virus interactions. He is actively involved in the standardization (ISO17025) of research laboratories at the Islamic Azad University, highlighting his commitment to maintaining high-quality research standards.

His current laboratory research and activities focus on several key areas, including the signaling pathway involved in plant defense against viruses, the antimicrobial activity of Ribosome Inactivating Protein, and the molecular characterization of fig-infecting viruses. Additionally, he explores the environmental changes affecting plant-virus interactions and conducts studies on the demography and genetic population of plant viruses infecting pome fruits.

Accolades and Recognition

Farshad Rakhshandehroo's dedication to academic and research excellence is evident in his role as the Head of the Plant Pathology Department at the Science and Research Branch of the Islamic Azad University. He has supervised numerous research projects, chairing or co-chairing over 30 Masters' and Ph.D. theses.

In recognition of his contributions, Rakhshandehroo has received fellowships to conduct research in prestigious institutions abroad, including Scotland, UK, Spain (Madrid), and Italy. These experiences have enriched his understanding of plant-virus interactions and environmental conditions affecting compatible interactions between plant viruses and hosts.

Impact and Influence on Situational Leadership

Rakhshandehroo's impact extends beyond his research and teaching roles. He has actively contributed to the scientific community through numerous publications in reputable journals. His research on topics such as resistance against Rhizomania disease, environmental changes in plant virus interactions, and the molecular characterization of various viruses has added valuable insights to the field of plant pathology.

His commitment to fostering the next generation of researchers is evident in his role as a mentor to graduate students. With over 30 theses under his guidance, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of plant pathology research in Iran.

In Situational Leadership, leaders assess the competence and commitment levels of their team members, allowing them to tailor their leadership behaviors accordingly. This adaptive approach fosters a collaborative and supportive environment where leaders can guide their teams through various challenges, ensuring that individuals receive the right level of direction and support to achieve their goals. The essence of Situational Leadership lies in its recognition that effective leadership is a fluid, contextual process that requires continual assessment, flexibility, and the ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of team dynamics and organizational goals.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Farshad Rakhshandehroo's legacy lies in his multifaceted contributions to academia, research, and mentorship. His expertise in plant virology, coupled with a robust teaching and research portfolio, positions him as a leader in the field. As he continues his work on understanding plant-virus interactions and addressing challenges in agriculture, his legacy is likely to endure through the impact of his research, the knowledge imparted to his students, and the advancements in plant pathology in Iran and beyond. The future holds the promise of further contributions and continued influence on the scientific community.

Situational Leadership is a dynamic leadership approach that emphasizes the adaptability of leaders to various situations and the individual needs of team members. It revolves around the idea that effective leaders adjust their leadership style based on the specific context, tasks at hand, and the readiness or maturity of their team members. This leadership model, developed by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard, acknowledges that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to leadership. Instead, leaders must be versatile, capable of employing different styles ranging from directing and coaching to supporting and delegating, depending on the unique circumstances.

Notable Publications

Dr. Prudencia Gutierrez-Esteban-Innovative Leadership-Best Researcher Award

Dr. Prudencia Gutierrez-Esteban-University of Extremadura -Innovative Leadership

Dr. Prudencia Gutierrez-Esteban : Innovative Leadership

Professional Profile  

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Prudencia Gutiérrez Esteban embarked on her academic journey by obtaining a predoctoral research grant in 2002, leading to the completion of her PhD in Pedagogy in 2007. During her early academic years, she demonstrated a commitment to educational sciences.

Professional Endeavors

Since 2005, Dr. Gutiérrez Esteban has been actively engaged in various academic roles, including positions such as Profesora Ayudante Doctora, Profesora Titular Interina, and later, as a Subdirectora del Campus Virtual de la UEx and Directora Educativa del Campus Virtual de la UEX.

Contributions and Research Focus

Her research focuses on Educational Technology, Online Learning Communities, Personal Learning Environments, and Innovation in Education. Dr. Gutiérrez Esteban has made significant contributions to the field, evident in her extensive publication record, including 22 national and 16 international papers, 5 books, and 25 book chapters. She has actively participated in numerous national and international conferences and research projects.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Gutiérrez Esteban has received notable recognition, including two national prizes: RUTE Young Researchers (2012) and the Santander Grant for Young Researchers (2013). Her expertise extends beyond national borders, with research stays in countries such as Russia, Australia, Argentina, Cuba, Poland, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

Impact and Influence

As a University Senior Lecturer, she has supervised numerous academic works, including 25 TFG, 12 TFM, 3 DEA, and 7 Doctoral Theses. Her influence also extends to university management, where she served as Vice Dean of International Relations and held various leadership roles within the university.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Gutiérrez Esteban has left an indelible mark on the academic landscape through her commitment to research, teaching, and university administration. With an H Index of 15 and over 900 citations, her work continues to shape the discourse in Educational Technology. As she continues her role as Profesora Titular de Universidad, her future contributions are eagerly anticipated, building upon her rich legacy in academia.

Notable Publications

Buenas prácticas en el desarrollo de trabajo colaborativo en materias TIC aplicadas a la educación

A descriptive literature review of phubbing behaviors

Los feminismos en el siglo XXI: Pluralidad de pensamientos

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