Mr. William Niemiec | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Mr. William Niemiec | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Author Profile

Scopus 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

William Niemiec’s journey into the world of computer science and software engineering began with a keen interest in problem-solving and innovative system design. His formal academic pursuit took shape at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), one of Brazil’s most esteemed institutions. Even before entering the Ph.D. program in 2024 at UFRGS’s Institute of Informatics, William was actively involved in research and academic exploration. Between 2021 and 2023, he engaged in Scientific Initiation projects, where he explored critical areas like the generalization of functionalities in health applications and data mining for software testing. These early ventures laid the foundation for his expertise in applying informatics solutions to real-world healthcare challenges.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Parallel to his academic trajectory, William Niemiec has built a robust professional career. He currently holds multiple roles in a Brazil-based software house: Project Manager, Team Lead, and Senior Software Developer. These roles are not only testament to his technical prowess but also to his leadership and management skills.

With a track record of managing around 10 industry projects, William has overseen the full lifecycle of several software systems — from design and development to deployment. His experience spans back-end, front-end, and mobile development, making him a full-stack engineer with a keen eye for user-centric design and robust architectures. His work environment often mirrors agile frameworks, emphasizing collaboration, scalability, and continuous innovation.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

William Niemiec’s research efforts focus on the intersection of Software Engineering and Healthcare, a domain where technology can profoundly enhance quality of life. Since 2021, he has been actively researching methods to improve health informatics, participating in health conferences and organizing collaborative workshops with healthcare professionals. His interdisciplinary approach bridges the gap between technical innovation and clinical needs.

One of his standout contributions is the design and development of a no-code platform for mHealth (mobile health) applications. This platform is structured around care plans, enabling healthcare practitioners with minimal technical knowledge to create and manage health-monitoring applications. This innovation demonstrates his commitment to democratizing digital health tools through intuitive and customizable software solutions.

In addition, his Ph.D. work investigates the use of Model-Driven Development (MDD) and Component-Based Software Engineering (CBSE) to streamline health software production. He is also exploring how Artificial Intelligence can be embedded into healthcare applications to support diagnostic and patient follow-up processes.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

While still early in his academic career, William Niemiec has already garnered recognition for his innovative thinking and multidisciplinary collaboration. His citation index of 1 represents his early steps into impactful academic publishing, with much more expected as his Ph.D. progresses. His frequent invitations to participate in healthcare technology workshops and academic panels reflect the trust that both the academic and clinical communities place in his expertise.

🌍 Impact and Influence

William’s dual expertise in software development and health informatics allows him to play a vital role in transforming healthcare delivery through digital innovation. His research directly contributes to improving patient outcomes, enhancing clinician workflow, and bridging the tech-literacy gap in clinical settings. His mHealth initiatives are especially significant in a country like Brazil, where geographic and economic disparities often limit access to continuous care. His solutions aim to empower healthcare providers with low-code tools and to provide patients with easy-to-use applications for chronic disease management and follow-ups.

Moreover, by working closely with both technical teams and medical professionals, William facilitates cross-disciplinary dialogue, ensuring that software solutions are not only technically sound but also clinically relevant and accessible.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, William Niemiec is poised to become a leading voice in healthcare software engineering. With a strong foundation in academic research, professional leadership, and technical excellence, he aims to further expand his research portfolio into AI-driven clinical decision support systems and interoperable health platforms. His vision is to create sustainable and scalable digital health ecosystems that can be adapted globally, particularly in low-resource settings.

As he continues his doctoral studies and professional endeavors, William is likely to make substantial contributions to both academia and industry. His future goals include publishing in top-tier journals, mentoring emerging researchers, and influencing health policy through evidence-based digital tools.

His blend of technical mastery, managerial acumen, and human-centered research promises a career of lasting impact — not only in Brazil but across global health technology landscapes. 🌐💡

📝Notable Publications

Mobilex: A Generic Framework for Cross-Platform Mobile Development Based on Web Language

Authors: William W. Niemiec, Rafael R. Borges, Érika É. Cota

Journal/Conference: Proceedings of the 36th Brazilian Symposium on Software Engineering (SBES 2022)

Year: 2022

Dr. Jinyang Li | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Young Researcher Award

Dr. Jinyang Li | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Young Researcher Award

University of Chicago, United States

Author Profile

Google Scholar 

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Jinyang Li’s journey into the world of biomedical research began with a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences. Born on June 13, 1993, in China, he exhibited academic promise early in life. He embarked on his undergraduate education at Sichuan University, one of China’s top-tier institutions, enrolling in the West China School of Pharmacy. There, he cultivated a deep understanding of core pharmaceutical principles and began shaping his identity as a future scientist. Upon graduating in June 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy, he had already demonstrated an eagerness to explore the complex intersections of chemistry, biology, and medicine.

Driven by an intense curiosity and a thirst for deeper discovery, Li enrolled in a prestigious B.A. to Ph.D. program at the School of Pharmacy, Fudan University—a leading research institution in Shanghai. From September 2015 to June 2020, he pursued his Doctor of Science degree in Pharmaceutics. During this critical academic phase, he laid the groundwork for his future innovations by immersing himself in translational research, lab experimentation, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. His rigorous doctoral training honed not only his technical prowess but also his ability to approach scientific problems from multiple angles.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

After receiving his doctorate, Jinyang Li continued his scientific journey through postdoctoral research positions, first at Fudan University’s School of Basic Medical Sciences from August 2020 to March 2023. Here, he transitioned from student to early-career researcher, taking on greater responsibilities and pursuing independent research lines. His role as a postdoctoral scholar enabled him to refine his experimental design skills, expand his understanding of biophysical mechanisms, and contribute meaningfully to peer-reviewed publications.

In March 2023, Li made a significant leap in his academic career by joining the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at the University of Chicago, one of the United States’ most prestigious research universities. As a postdoctoral scholar in the Biological Sciences Division, he now operates at the cutting edge of molecular biology. The move not only marked his entry into the global scientific community but also signaled his growing stature as a promising international researcher. At the University of Chicago, Li has been immersed in high-level investigations, working alongside experts and mentors whose influence is shaping the next generation of biomedical discovery.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Jinyang Li’s research spans an impressive range of biomedical topics, with a strong emphasis on biochemistry, molecular biophysics, and pharmaceutics. His work investigates the intricate behavior of biological molecules—unraveling the molecular mechanisms that underpin disease and drug action. Whether it’s exploring protein interactions, developing novel delivery systems for therapeutics, or elucidating cellular pathways, Li consistently demonstrates a commitment to translating fundamental science into solutions with clinical relevance.

At Fudan University, his research was focused on innovative drug delivery systems, nanotechnology applications in medicine, and pharmaceutical formulations. These endeavors not only advanced academic understanding but also laid the foundation for real-world pharmaceutical innovation. His current research at the University of Chicago likely continues this trend—bridging molecular structure with biomedical application, with potential implications in areas like cancer biology, immunotherapy, or neurodegeneration.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

While specific awards are not detailed in the current profile, Jinyang Li’s trajectory speaks volumes about his merit. Securing postdoctoral positions at both Fudan University and the University of Chicago reflects his scientific credibility, academic discipline, and collaborative spirit. Being selected to work at globally recognized institutions is itself a testament to his research abilities and intellectual rigor. The competitive nature of postdoctoral appointments—especially at elite institutions—underscores the recognition he has earned from mentors and academic peers alike.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Jinyang Li’s impact extends beyond laboratory benches and academic publications. His research contributes to the broader scientific effort to develop more effective therapies, understand disease mechanisms at the molecular level, and inform future clinical strategies. As an international scholar working in both China and the United States, he represents a bridge between two major scientific communities—facilitating global collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Moreover, his interdisciplinary approach fosters innovation across scientific domains. His background in pharmaceutics, combined with biophysical expertise, positions him uniquely to tackle some of the most pressing health challenges of our time. In doing so, he not only advances science but also inspires younger researchers, particularly those from China aspiring to make their mark on the global stage.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Jinyang Li’s scientific career is still in its early stages, yet the foundations he has built are formidable. As he continues his work at the University of Chicago, his trajectory suggests a future filled with breakthroughs and leadership roles. His experience in two major research ecosystems equips him with a diverse and adaptive mindset—one that is critical in the ever-evolving world of biomedical science.

Looking ahead, Li is likely to contribute significantly to drug discovery, molecular diagnostics, or personalized medicine. His long-term legacy may include not just impactful publications and patents, but also mentoring emerging scientists and shaping collaborative networks between East and West. With his background, dedication, and vision, Jinyang Li is poised to become a defining figure in 21st-century biomedical research.

📝Notable Publications

Ligand-modified cell membrane enables the targeted delivery of drug nanocrystals to glioma

Authors: Z. Chai, D. Ran, L. Lu, C. Zhan, H. Ruan, X. Hu, C. Xie, K. Jiang, J. Li, J. Zhou, …
Journal: ACS Nano
Year: 2019

Platelet membrane-functionalized nanoparticles with improved targeting ability and lower hemorrhagic risk for thrombolysis therapy

Authors: S. Wang, R. Wang, N. Meng, H. Guo, S. Wu, X. Wang, J. Li, H. Wang, K. Jiang, …
Journal: Journal of Controlled Release
Year: 2020

Deliver anti-PD-L1 into brain by p-hydroxybenzoic acid to enhance immunotherapeutic effect for glioblastoma

Authors: H. Guo, R. Wang, D. Wang, S. Wang, J. Zhou, Z. Chai, S. Yao, J. Li, L. Lu, Y. Liu, …
Journal: Journal of Controlled Release
Year: 2020

 Design of stapled peptide-based PROTACs for MDM2/MDMX atypical degradation and tumor suppression

Authors: S. Chen, X. Li, Y. Li, X. Yuan, C. Geng, S. Gao, J. Li, B. Ma, Z. Wang, W. Lu, …
Journal: Theranostics
Year: 2022

 All-stage precisional glioma targeted therapy enabled by a well-designed D-peptide

Authors: D. Ran, J. Zhou, Z. Chai, J. Li, C. Xie, J. Mao, L. Lu, Y. Zhang, S. Wu, C. Zhan, …
Journal: Theranostics
Year: 2020

Dr. Mohammed Q. Alkhatib | Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammed Q. Alkhatib | Research | Best Researcher Award

University of Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Profile

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Mohammed Q. Alkhatib’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in Telecommunications Engineering at Yarmouk University in Jordan. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2008, he displayed a keen interest in the intricacies of communication systems, signal processing, and network technologies. His undergraduate years were marked by rigorous coursework, extensive lab work, and an insatiable curiosity for cutting-edge innovations in the field of telecommunications.

Eager to expand his knowledge and contribute to technological advancements, Alkhatib pursued higher education in the United States. He enrolled in the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) for a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering. With a stellar GPA of 3.9/4.0, his postgraduate studies allowed him to delve deeper into complex electrical engineering concepts, refining his expertise in communication networks, digital signal processing, and programming. The completion of his master’s degree in December 2011 was a significant milestone, setting the stage for his doctoral pursuits.

Recognizing his academic prowess, UTEP welcomed Alkhatib into its Ph.D. program in Electrical and Computer Engineering. He dedicated himself to extensive research, exploring new frontiers in signal processing and remote sensing. His doctoral work, completed in May 2018 with an impressive GPA of 3.92/4.0, laid the foundation for his future contributions to academia and industry. His research during this period was instrumental in enhancing remote sensing methodologies, particularly in detecting anomalies and improving imaging technologies.

Professional Endeavors and Teaching Excellence 🌟

Alkhatib’s professional career has been marked by a blend of teaching, research, and industry collaboration. His passion for educating future engineers and innovators led him to take on academic roles in the UAE, where he has had a profound impact on students and colleagues alike.

He began his academic career as a Lecturer at Abu Dhabi Polytechnic in 2014, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s curriculum and mentoring students. His expertise in Computer Electronics, Java Programming, and Calculus enabled him to deliver comprehensive and engaging courses. Beyond teaching, he actively contributed to academic administration by leading the Quality Assurance (QA) committee. In this capacity, he developed Course Learning Outcomes (CLO) reports, ensuring that the institution maintained high educational standards. His meticulous approach to curriculum development and student assessment helped foster an environment of academic excellence.

In January 2021, Alkhatib joined the University of Dubai as an Assistant Professor in the College of Engineering and IT (CEIT). In this role, he has been instrumental in designing and delivering courses in Communication Systems, Signals and Systems, Digital Signal Processing, and Networking. His commitment to student success goes beyond the classroom; he provides academic advising, supervises research projects, and mentors students in their academic and professional journeys. His ability to break down complex engineering concepts into digestible lessons has earned him admiration from both students and colleagues.

Contributions and Research Focus 🌐

Alkhatib’s research interests are deeply rooted in remote sensing technology, digital signal processing, and communication networks. His tenure at the University of Dubai has allowed him to expand his research portfolio, focusing on the development of advanced algorithms for remote sensing applications. As an advisor at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center Lab (MBRSC-Lab), he has contributed significantly to research initiatives in satellite imaging and remote sensing.

His previous research experience as a Research Assistant at UTEP saw him develop unsupervised algorithms for detecting skin wounds and ulcers using infrared (IR) video imagery. This research, conducted in collaboration with SpectralMD Company, showcased his ability to merge engineering principles with healthcare applications. His work in this domain demonstrated the potential of machine learning and imaging technologies in medical diagnostics, further proving his interdisciplinary expertise.

Alkhatib has consistently contributed to the academic community through scholarly publications in reputable journals and conferences. His research findings have provided valuable insights into remote sensing methodologies, improving image processing techniques and communication technologies.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout his career, Alkhatib has been recognized for his academic excellence, research contributions, and dedication to student mentorship. His outstanding academic record, demonstrated by his high GPAs across all levels of education, reflects his commitment to learning and intellectual growth. His work in academia and industry has earned him respect as a leading researcher and educator in the field of electrical and computer engineering.

His role as a peer reviewer for academic journals underscores his credibility in the research community. By participating in peer review processes, he has helped maintain the quality and integrity of scientific publications, ensuring that groundbreaking research meets rigorous academic standards.

Impact and Influence in Academia and Industry 💡

Alkhatib’s impact extends beyond his immediate academic environment. As an educator, he has inspired countless students to pursue careers in engineering and technology. His mentorship has helped students navigate complex research topics, guiding them toward innovative solutions and career success. Many of his mentees have gone on to contribute significantly to industry and academia, a testament to his effectiveness as a mentor.

In the research domain, his work in remote sensing and digital signal processing continues to shape technological advancements. His contributions to satellite imaging and healthcare applications highlight the practical implications of his research, bridging the gap between theory and real-world solutions.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Looking ahead, Alkhatib aims to expand his research in remote sensing, exploring new applications in environmental monitoring, healthcare, and space technology. His involvement with MBRSC-Lab positions him at the forefront of space research in the UAE, where he continues to push the boundaries of satellite imaging and data processing.

As an academic leader, he is committed to enhancing engineering education through innovative teaching methodologies and curriculum development. His focus on integrating emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, into traditional engineering courses ensures that his students remain competitive in an ever-evolving job market.

Alkhatib’s legacy will be defined by his unwavering dedication to education, research, and technological innovation. His contributions have already left an indelible mark on the field of electrical and computer engineering, and his future endeavors promise to further solidify his reputation as a thought leader and pioneer in the domain.

With a career built on excellence, curiosity, and a passion for knowledge, Mohammed Q. Alkhatib stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring engineers and researchers worldwide. His journey from a dedicated student to a distinguished professor and researcher exemplifies the power of perseverance, intellectual rigor, and the relentless pursuit of innovation.

📝Notable Publications

“Tri-CNN: A Three Branch Model for Hyperspectral Image Classification”

Authors: MQ Alkhatib, M Al-Saad, N Aburaed, S Almansoori, J Zabalza, S Marshall, …

Journal: Remote Sensing

Year: 2023

“A Review of Spatial Enhancement of Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Imaging Techniques”

Authors: N Aburaed, MQ Alkhatib, S Marshall, J Zabalza, H Al Ahmad

Journal: IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing

Year: 2023

“Improved Spatial-Spectral Superpixel Hyperspectral Unmixing”

Authors: MQ Alkhatib, M Velez-Reyes

Journal: Remote Sensing

Year: 2019

“3D Expansion of SRCNN for Spatial Enhancement of Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Images”

Authors: N Aburaed, MQ Alkhatib, S Marshall, J Zabalza, H Al Ahmad

Journal: Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Signal Processing and Information Security (ICSPIS)

Year: 2021

“PolSAR Image Classification Using Attention-Based Shallow to Deep Convolutional Neural Network”

Authors: MQ Alkhatib, M Al-Saad, N Aburaed, MS Zitouni, H Al-Ahmad

Journal: IGARSS 2023 – IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium Proceedings

Year: 2023

Aziz İLHAN-Decision-making and Problem-solving Award-Best Researcher Award 

Assoc Prof Dr. Aziz İLHAN-Decision-making and Problem-solving-Best Researcher Award 

İnönü Üniversity-Turkey 

Author profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Aziz İlhan embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Mathematics Education from Dicle University in 2009. This foundational education laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in the field of mathematics education. He furthered his studies by completing a Master's degree in Elementary Mathematics Education at Fırat University in 2015, focusing on the development of a scale for visual mathematics literacy and its relationship with geometry achievements among elementary mathematics teacher candidates. Subsequently, he pursued a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education at İnönü University, successfully defending his thesis in 2019, which explored the correlation between visual mathematics literacy levels and reasoning skills in geometry among primary education mathematics teacher candidates.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Aziz İlhan has made significant contributions to academia through his various professional roles and responsibilities. He began his career as a Lecturer at Munzur University, where he actively engaged in teaching and supervising students in the field of accounting and taxation from 2013 to 2019. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment as an Assistant Professor at Munzur University, where he continued to excel in teaching and research from 2019 to 2021.

In 2021, Dr. İlhan joined İnönü University as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics Education, further enriching his academic and research pursuits. He also served as the Deputy Director of the Research and Application Center for Gifted Students at İnönü University, showcasing his commitment to nurturing talent and fostering educational excellence.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. İlhan's research focus encompasses various aspects of mathematics education, with a particular emphasis on visual mathematics literacy, geometry learning, and the integration of technology in teaching mathematics. He has supervised numerous master's theses exploring topics such as digital mathematics literacy, augmented reality in mathematics education, and the use of digital games in teaching mathematics.

His publications in international refereed journals reflect his scholarly contributions, including studies on the relationship between visual mathematics literacy and geometry performance, the impact of technology on mathematics learning, and the development of assessment tools for mathematics education.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Aziz İlhan's contributions to the field of mathematics education have been recognized through awards such as the Young Researcher Award from the Faculty of Education in 2023. His dedication to advancing teaching methodologies and enhancing student learning outcomes has garnered respect and admiration from peers and colleagues.

Impact and Influence on Decision-making and Problem-solving Award

Dr. İlhan's work has had a significant impact on shaping contemporary practices in mathematics education, especially in the areas of digital literacy, problem-solving strategies, and pedagogical approaches. His research outcomes and pedagogical innovations have influenced curriculum development and instructional practices in mathematics education at both the national and international levels.

Aziz İlhan has been recognized with the Decision-making and Problem-solving Award for his exceptional contributions to the field of education. His innovative approaches to decision-making and problem-solving have had a profound impact on educational practices and research methodologies. Through his extensive work in mathematics education, he has demonstrated a keen ability to analyze complex issues, develop effective strategies, and implement solutions that enhance teaching and learning outcomes.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As an esteemed academic and researcher, Dr. Aziz İlhan's legacy lies in his dedication to advancing the field of mathematics education through rigorous research, innovative teaching methodologies, and mentorship of future educators. His continued contributions are poised to further enrich the academic landscape and inspire new generations of scholars and educators in the realm of mathematics education.

Aziz Ilhan's award-winning efforts in decision-making and problem-solving extend beyond theoretical frameworks to practical applications in educational settings. He has spearheaded initiatives that promote critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making among educators and students alike. His contributions have not only elevated the standards of education but also inspired a new generation of scholars and practitioners to embrace innovative approaches in addressing challenges within the education sector.

Notable publications