Prof Ivana Bajšanski | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Ivana Bajšanski | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technical Sciences, Department of Architecture, Serbia

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Ivana Bajšanski began her academic journey with a focus on architecture, pursuing both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad. Her undergraduate and graduate years were marked by a strong interest in the impact of architecture on urban environments, with particular attention to sustainability and thermal comfort in city spaces. Her master’s thesis, titled “The Algorithm for Improving the Thermal Comfort in Urban Environment,” reflects her dedication to environmental issues within architectural design. This project laid the groundwork for her doctoral studies, where she continued to refine her research on enhancing thermal comfort in urban spaces, aiming to improve living conditions in densely populated areas through innovative architectural solutions.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Since February 2010, Bajšanski has served as an Associate Professor at the University of Novi Sad’s Faculty of Technical Sciences. In this role, she has been responsible for mentoring students, guiding them through the complexities of architectural design, and contributing to the academic growth of the department. Her teaching approach integrates practical design skills with a strong theoretical foundation in environmental analysis, preparing her students to become leaders in sustainable architecture. Bajšanski has been actively involved in faculty initiatives, bringing her expertise in environmental and procedural modeling to the classroom and fostering an atmosphere of innovation and forward-thinking.

Her career in academia has also included involvement in significant projects that address urban planning issues in Serbia and the broader European region. These projects highlight her commitment to bridging academia and practical urban development, emphasizing her belief that architectural solutions should address real-world challenges.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔍

Ivana Bajšanski’s research focuses primarily on sustainable urban development and the optimization of architectural design to improve urban thermal comfort. Her academic work combines advanced digital tools, including 3D modeling software like AutoCAD, Rhinoceros, and SketchUp, with environmental analysis platforms such as LadyBug and Honeybee. These tools allow her to conduct thorough environmental assessments and simulations that inform her design recommendations, especially in terms of sustainability and energy efficiency.

One of her notable projects, “Optimisation of Architectural Design and Urban Planning Process in Terms of Sustainable Development of Serbia,” funded by the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science, and Technological Development, examines sustainable architecture and urban planning principles. This project is dedicated to enhancing the ecological and energy efficiency aspects of architectural practices in Serbia, focusing on reducing urban heat and optimizing building designs for local climate conditions. Additionally, she has worked on “Scientific and Artistic Research Work of Researchers in Teaching and Associate Positions at the Faculty of Technical Sciences,” which further underscores her commitment to the nexus of design, research, and sustainable development.

In a collaborative effort under the Interreg–IPA Cross-border Cooperation Programme Hungary–Serbia, Bajšanski contributed to a project titled “Monitoring, Forecasting, and Development of Online Public Early Warning System for Extreme Precipitations and Pluvial Floods in Urban Areas in the Hungarian-Serbian Cross-border Region.” This project is significant because it addresses the increased risk of extreme weather events in the region, aiming to provide cities with tools to mitigate flood impacts. Her research approach blends architecture with environmental science, indicating her interdisciplinary outlook on problem-solving in urban spaces.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Ivana Bajšanski has been widely recognized for her contributions to architecture and urban planning, particularly in the field of sustainable development. Her expertise in environmental modeling, parametric design, and thermal comfort optimization has earned her a respected position in her academic community. Her contributions to projects funded by the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science, and Technological Development are a testament to her influence in national urban planning initiatives. Furthermore, her involvement in the ERASMUS+ Triplex Confinium project, which addresses educational gaps in architecture and urban planning along the borders of Romania, Hungary, and Serbia, highlights her dedication to enhancing academic collaboration across borders. This project allows her to work with international colleagues to bridge educational disparities, thereby fostering cross-cultural learning and cooperation in architecture.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Ivana Bajšanski’s work in sustainable urban planning has had a notable impact on both local and regional levels. Her research offers valuable insights into reducing urban heat islands, enhancing public safety during extreme weather events, and promoting sustainable building practices in Serbia and its neighboring countries. Her collaboration on the Interreg-IPA project has been particularly influential, as it not only contributes to scientific understanding but also provides practical solutions for city planning authorities dealing with climate-related challenges. By advocating for green architecture and sustainable urban design, Bajšanski has influenced the adoption of eco-friendly policies and practices, underscoring her commitment to environmental stewardship.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Looking forward, Ivana Bajšanski is poised to continue her impactful work in sustainable architecture and urban planning. Her future contributions will likely focus on further integrating digital tools with architectural design, enhancing the capability of urban planners and architects to create resilient, climate-adaptive cities. Bajšanski’s ongoing academic role will ensure that her knowledge and insights are passed on to future generations of architects, instilling in them a sense of responsibility for creating sustainable and livable urban environments. Her commitment to environmental analysis, digital modeling, and cross-border collaboration positions her as a leading figure in shaping the future of urban architecture in Southeast Europe.

In summary, Ivana Bajšanski’s career has been marked by a dedication to sustainable urban planning, impactful research, and academic excellence. Her work not only addresses the environmental challenges of today but also lays the groundwork for future innovations in urban design, ensuring that her legacy will continue to inspire architects and urban planners for years to come.

📝Notable Publications

Influence of changing trees locations on thermal comfort on street parking lot and footways

Authors: DD Milošević, IV Bajšanski, SM Savić

Journal: Urban Forestry & Urban Greening

Year: 2017

Evaluation and improvement of outdoor thermal comfort in urban areas on extreme temperature days: Applications of automatic algorithms

Authors: IV Bajšanski, DD Milošević, SM Savić

Journal: Building and Environment

Year: 2015

Development of an automated urban climate monitoring system in Novi Sad (Serbia)

Authors: I Šećerov, S Savić, D Milošević, V Marković, I Bajšanski

Journal: Geographica Pannonica

Year: 2015

Effect of tree location on mitigating parking lot insolation

Authors: I Bajsanski, V Stojakovic, M Jovanovic

Journal: Computers, Environment and Urban Systems

Year: 2016

The influence of changing location of trees in urban green spaces on insolation mitigation

Authors: V Stojakovic, I Bajsanski, S Savic, D Milosevic, B Tepavcevic

Journal: Urban Forestry & Urban Greening

Year: 2020

Dr. Alejandro Meruelo | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Alejandro Meruelo | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

UCSD, United States

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Meruelo’s journey into academia and medicine began with a B.S. in Physics, awarded with honors from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in 2006. Recognized as a President’s Scholar, he received a full-tuition scholarship, underscoring his early academic excellence. He later joined the prestigious David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, where he was selected for the NIH Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP), a dual-degree initiative supporting outstanding students who aim to integrate scientific research with medical practice. Between 2008 and 2012, Dr. Meruelo pursued a Ph.D. in Molecular and Structural Biology at UCLA, with his dissertation focusing on computational prediction and protein structure analysis—a foundation that would inform his later research into neuropsychiatry. This work, supported by the NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein NRSA Predoctoral Fellowship, introduced him to groundbreaking scientific inquiry and laid the groundwork for a career characterized by interdisciplinary exploration.

🧠 Professional Endeavors in Psychiatry and Research

Upon completing his M.D. in 2014, Dr. Meruelo undertook a rigorous Psychiatry Residency at UCSD as part of the Research Track, allowing him to blend clinical training with substantial research responsibilities. Supported by prominent grants like the R25 MH101072, he immersed himself in examining the neurological and behavioral effects of substances, particularly alcohol, on adolescents and young adults. Following his residency, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship under Dr. Susan F. Tapert, a leader in adolescent neurodevelopment and substance abuse research. This experience further refined Dr. Meruelo’s research focus on neurodevelopmental markers and risk factors associated with psychiatric disorders and substance abuse in youth. In 2019, he joined UCSD as an Assistant Adjunct Professor, where he continues to contribute to advancing psychiatry through research, clinical instruction, and community outreach.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Meruelo’s research primarily focuses on understanding the neurological underpinnings of adolescent depression and the impact of alcohol use. He leads multiple funded research initiatives, most notably the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism’s K23 award to explore adolescent markers of depression in relation to alcohol consumption. His pioneering studies employ functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate cognitive and neural markers among youth at risk of alcoholism, which could lead to early identification and intervention for at-risk populations. Dr. Meruelo’s contributions extend to understanding structural brain changes and the long-term effects of substance use on mental health. His work has implications for early diagnosis and improved interventions in youth mental health, bridging psychiatry and neurobiology to provide holistic insights into addiction and mood disorders.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and professional career, Dr. Meruelo has earned numerous awards that highlight his dedication and expertise. His accolades include the NIDA-AACAP Resident Training Award in Substance Abuse and Addiction and the NEI Master Psychopharmacology Program Certificate, which reflect his commitment to both understanding and treating addiction. He was also awarded the NIMH Outstanding Resident Award and attended the NIMH Brain Camp, a prestigious program aimed at fostering young leaders in mental health research. His participation in the Alcohol Medical Scholars Program and his role as a UCSD Hispanic Center of Excellence Faculty Scholar further emphasize his active engagement in promoting diversity and advancing research within the mental health field.

🌎 Impact and Influence

Dr. Meruelo’s contributions extend beyond research publications and grant-funded projects. As a lecturer in the UCSD Adult Psychiatry Residency Training Program, he influences a new generation of psychiatrists by integrating research insights with clinical applications. He actively serves on various committees, including the Diversity Committee and Neuroscience Graduate Program candidate selection, where he fosters inclusivity and academic excellence. His ad-hoc review work for journals like Biological Psychiatry and Depression and Anxiety and his contributions to the UCSD R25 Alumni Advisory Group underscore his dedication to advancing psychiatric research and mentoring. Furthermore, he has been instrumental in organizing the Interventional Psychiatry Group at UCSD, creating a platform for collaborative exploration of cutting-edge psychiatric treatments.

🌠 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Meruelo’s career trajectory and research findings contribute to a broader understanding of adolescent psychiatry, particularly in relation to depression and substance use. His ongoing work holds promise for influencing preventive strategies and treatment frameworks, potentially impacting public health policies and intervention programs aimed at young people. By combining his expertise in molecular biology, neuropsychiatry, and clinical psychiatry, Dr. Meruelo continues to carve a unique path in his field. His research has not only expanded knowledge but also promises to shape future practices in psychiatry, benefiting both patients and healthcare systems.

📝Notable Publications

Cannabis and alcohol use, and the developing brain

Authors: AD Meruelo, N Castro, CI Cota, SF Tapert

Journal: Behavioural Brain Research

Year: 2017

Cortical thickness in adolescent marijuana and alcohol users: A three-year prospective study from adolescence to young adulthood

Authors: J Jacobus, LM Squeglia, AD Meruelo, N Castro, T Brumback, JN Giedd, …

Journal: Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience

Year: 2015

Neuropsychological performance in adolescent marijuana users with co-occurring alcohol use: A three-year longitudinal study

Authors: J Jacobus, LM Squeglia, MA Infante, N Castro, T Brumback, AD Meruelo, …

Journal: Neuropsychology

Year: 2015

C. elegans EVI1 proto-oncogene, EGL-43, is necessary for Notch-mediated cell fate specification and regulates cell invasion

Authors: BJ Hwang, AD Meruelo, PW Sternberg

Journal: Oxford University Press for The Company of Biologists Limited

Year: 2007

Structural differences between thermophilic and mesophilic membrane proteins

Authors: AD Meruelo, SK Han, S Kim, JU Bowie

Journal: Protein Science

Year: 2012

Assoc Prof Dr. Han Liu | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Han Liu | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

China coal technology and engineering group, China

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Han Liu’s academic journey began at the Beijing University of Technology, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Traffic Engineering in 2008. His quest for knowledge then took him to the People’s Armed Police Forces Academy, where he obtained a Master’s degree in Military Political Work in 2013. His academic pursuits culminated in a Doctorate in Transportation Engineering from the Harbin Institute of Technology in 2018. Dr. Liu’s education laid a robust foundation for his research in emergency systems planning and management, preparing him to tackle complex challenges in transportation engineering.

Professional Endeavors 🚒

Dr. Liu’s professional career is marked by diverse experiences and roles that have shaped his expertise. He began his career as a Deputy Squadron Leader with the Hebei Public Security Fire Brigade, serving from 2008 to 2016. His commitment to emergency response and public safety was evident during his tenure. In 2016, he expanded his horizons internationally as a Visiting Scholar and Research Assistant at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Upon returning to China, Dr. Liu joined Tsinghua University as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Assistant Researcher, further enhancing his research capabilities. Since 2021, he has been leading the Emergency Research Institute at the Coal Science Research General Institute, where he continues to make significant contributions to emergency response research.

Contributions and Research Focus 🧠

Dr. Liu’s research focuses on the optimization of emergency response systems. His work in location and route planning for emergency response facilities has been instrumental in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency services. He has also explored electrochemical fire risk assessment and chain-breaking prevention technologies, contributing to the safety of energy systems. His efforts in building safety culture within grassroots firefighting teams have had a lasting impact on public safety.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Liu’s work has been recognized both nationally and internationally. His research papers have been published in prestigious journals and have contributed significantly to the field of transportation engineering. His expertise has been acknowledged through various certifications, including the National Firefighter Certification, CET-4 & CET-6 English Exams, IELTS 6.5, National English Proficiency Test PETS-5, and Registered Fire Safety Qualification Certificate.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Liu’s research has a profound impact on emergency response systems and public safety. His innovative approaches to optimizing emergency services and his contributions to fire risk assessment technologies are improving the safety and efficiency of emergency response systems globally. His work on safety culture in grassroots firefighting teams is fostering a culture of safety and preparedness, reducing risks and enhancing the effectiveness of emergency services.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Dr. Liu’s legacy is one of dedication to improving public safety through research and innovation. His work continues to influence the field of emergency response and transportation engineering. As he leads the Emergency Research Institute, he is poised to make further contributions that will shape the future of emergency response systems. His commitment to research excellence and public safety ensures that his impact will be felt for years to come.

📚 Publications

Dr. Isabel Bico | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award | 3032

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Dr. Isabel Bico | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Universidade de Évora, Portugal

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Anissa LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI was born on January 30, 1967, in Algiers, Algeria. Her academic journey began with a focus on biotechnologies and food industries, culminating in a Doctorate from the Institut National Polytechnique de Lorraine (INPL) at the École Nationale Supérieure d’Agronomie et des Industries Alimentaires (ENSAIA) in Nancy in 1994. This foundational phase set the stage for her future academic and research endeavors.

Her postdoctoral research work began in 1995 at the Laboratoire de Microbiologie at ENSAIA, followed by a significant role at the Laboratoire de Mycologie/Phytopathologie/Environnement (LMPE) at the Université du Littoral Côte d’Opale (ULCO) in 1996. This period was marked by intensive research in mycology and phytopathology, which laid the groundwork for her later contributions to environmental chemistry and plant-fungi interactions.

Professional Endeavors 🏛️

Anissa’s professional career is distinguished by her tenure at ULCO, where she has been a pivotal figure in advancing research and education in environmental chemistry. She became a Maîtresse de Conférences (MCF) in 1998, advancing to a Professorship in 2015. Her habilitation to supervise research (HDR) in 2006 marked her as a leading academic in her field.

Her roles have extended beyond teaching into leadership positions. She has served as the Head of the Interactions Plantes-Champignons (IPCR) team and Director of the first-year Life Sciences program at ULCO. Her responsibilities include overseeing significant research projects and directing academic programs, reflecting her deep commitment to both education and research.

Contributions and Research Focus 🌿🔬

Professor LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI’s research is centered on the interactions between plants and fungi, focusing on phytomanagement, soil decontamination, and biocontrol of wheat fungal diseases. Her work addresses both fundamental and applied aspects, from in vitro cultures and microcosms to large-scale field demonstrations.

Her research aims to elucidate the technical feasibility and mechanisms involved in phytoremediation processes, such as rhizodegradation of organic pollutants, phytostabilization, and phytoextraction of trace elements. She explores the role of mycorrhizal fungi and soil amendments in these processes and is particularly interested in soil microbiota characterization and biomass valorization from polluted soils.

LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI has also been involved in several significant research projects, including PHYTEO, DEPHYTOP, and DEFIWAIDE, further demonstrating her impact in the field.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Professor LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI has received numerous accolades throughout her career. In 2018, she was honored as a Chevalier in the Ordre des Palmes Académiques, recognizing her contributions to education and research. Her scholarly work is widely acknowledged, with an h-index of 31 and over 3,600 citations, highlighting her influence in the academic community.

She has published extensively, with 108 papers in international peer-reviewed journals, 10 book chapters, and numerous communications at scientific congresses. Her participation in public science communication through press conferences, TV shows, and interviews underscores her commitment to making science accessible to a broader audience.

Impact and Influence 🌍

The impact of Anissa LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI’s work extends beyond academia into practical applications in environmental science. Her research on plant-fungi interactions has significant implications for soil remediation and sustainable agriculture, contributing to the development of new techniques for managing contaminated environments.

Her role in directing research projects and supervising doctoral and postdoctoral researchers demonstrates her influence in shaping the next generation of scientists. Her extensive teaching responsibilities further reflect her dedication to education and her impact on the academic community.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Looking forward, Professor LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI’s legacy will be defined by her continued contributions to environmental chemistry and her role in advancing the field of plant-fungi interactions. Her research promises to offer further insights into effective bioremediation techniques and sustainable practices for managing polluted soils.

Her ongoing leadership in research projects and academic programs at ULCO ensures that her impact will be felt for years to come. As she continues to explore new frontiers in environmental science, her work will likely inspire future research and drive innovations in the field.

Anissa LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI’s career reflects a deep commitment to both research and education, and her contributions have established her as a leading figure in her field.

📚 Publications