Dalian University of Technology, China

Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Hua Shang’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Dalian University of Technology (DUT) in 1998. Her keen interest in bridging engineering and management led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Technological Economics and Management at DUT, where she completed her doctoral studies in 2007. Her dissertation, titled Measurement and Evaluation of the Ecological Efficiency of Industrial Park, reflects her early commitment to addressing sustainability challenges in industrial ecosystems. During her doctoral research, she developed expertise in evaluating ecological efficiency—a theme that has remained central to her career.

Hua’s thirst for global academic exposure took her to the University of Leipzig, Germany, as a visiting scholar in 2005-2006. There, she delved into infrastructure and resource management, gaining valuable insights into international best practices. Later, as a visiting scholar at Yale University’s School of Forestry and Management in 2013-2014, she further honed her understanding of sustainability frameworks and ecological innovation.

Professional Endeavors and Leadership 📋

Dr. Shang began her career as a Lecturer at Fushun University’s Department of Civil Engineering from 1998 to 2002. This role allowed her to merge her engineering expertise with teaching, inspiring the next generation of professionals. Her transition into management sciences occurred in 2007 when she joined DUT’s School of Economics and Management as a Lecturer. Her exceptional contributions earned her promotion to Associate Professor in 2012.

Beyond her teaching responsibilities, Dr. Shang has taken on key leadership roles. Since 2011, she has served as the Assistant Director of the International Ecological Security Institute at DUT, where she works to foster interdisciplinary research and international collaboration. Additionally, her tenure as a staff member at the Office of the State Council Academic Degrees Committee (2007-2008) demonstrates her influence in shaping academic policies at the national level.

Contributions and Research Focus 🌱

Dr. Shang’s research primarily revolves around ecological efficiency, management science, and performance optimization for high-tech enterprises. Her postdoctoral research, titled Optimization of High-Tech Enterprise Performance Management Systems, addressed the challenges of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability in high-tech industries.

Her work is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, combining insights from management, engineering, and environmental science. Dr. Shang has contributed to several groundbreaking projects that explore the intersection of industrial ecology and sustainable development. As a member of prestigious organizations such as the International Institute of Chinese Management Research and the International Eco-Industrial Society, she continues to contribute to the global discourse on sustainable management practices.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Shang’s academic excellence and professional contributions have garnered her widespread recognition. As a reviewer for the National Natural Science Foundation since 2009, she has played a pivotal role in shaping research funding priorities in China. Her international experience and academic rigor have made her a sought-after scholar in the field of ecological management.

She has also been recognized for her teaching excellence and her ability to mentor doctoral students, helping them navigate complex interdisciplinary research areas. Her work has earned her the respect of peers, both in China and internationally.

Impact and Influence 🌏

Through her extensive research on ecological efficiency, Dr. Shang has provided actionable frameworks for improving the sustainability of industrial parks and enterprises. Her findings have influenced both academic research and practical implementation in industries seeking to balance profitability with environmental stewardship.

Her leadership at the International Ecological Security Institute has amplified her impact, fostering collaborations that address pressing ecological challenges at both local and global levels. Dr. Shang’s role as a visiting scholar at prestigious institutions like Yale and Leipzig further underscores her commitment to exchanging knowledge and fostering international cooperation.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

As an Associate Professor and doctoral supervisor, Dr. Shang is shaping the future of ecological and economic management through her students and research initiatives. Her ability to integrate theory with practice ensures that her legacy will be one of tangible impact.

Looking forward, Dr. Shang aims to continue her work on optimizing ecological efficiency in emerging economies, particularly in the context of high-tech industries. Her vision includes developing innovative management frameworks that address global sustainability challenges, fostering a balance between economic growth and environmental preservation.

Through her relentless dedication, Hua Shang is leaving an indelible mark on the fields of ecological management and sustainability. Her contributions serve as a beacon for those striving to create a more sustainable future. 🌿

📝Notable Publications

High-power terahertz generation using large-area plasmonic photoconductive emitters

Authors: NT Yardimci, SH Yang, CW Berry, M Jarrahi
Journal: IEEE Transactions on Terahertz Science and Technology
Year: 2015

Electronically-controlled beam-steering through vanadium dioxide metasurfaces

Authors: MRM Hashemi, SH Yang, T Wang, N Sepúlveda, M Jarrahi
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2016

7.5% optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiency offered by photoconductive emitters with three-dimensional plasmonic contact electrodes

Authors: SH Yang, MR Hashemi, CW Berry, M Jarrahi
Journal: IEEE Transactions on Terahertz Science and Technology
Year: 2014

Switchable scattering meta-surfaces for broadband terahertz modulation

Authors: M Unlu, MR Hashemi, CW Berry, S Li, SH Yang, M Jarrahi
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2014

Globally stable microresonator Turing pattern formation for coherent high-power THz radiation on-chip

Authors: SW Huang, J Yang, SH Yang, M Yu, DL Kwong, T Zelevinsky, M Jarrahi, …
Journal: Physical Review X
Year: 2017

Assist Prof Dr. Burhanettin Ozdemir | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 07/01/202507/01/2025 by Leadership and Management

Assist Prof Dr. Burhanettin Ozdemir | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Alfaisal University, Saudi Arabia

Profile

Scopus

Ealy Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Burhanettin Ozdemir’s academic journey began with a passion for measurement and statistics, which ultimately led him to pursue a Ph.D. at Hacettepe University, Ankara. His doctoral research focused on multidimensional computerized adaptive testing (MCAT), a critical area in the advancement of educational assessments. His work, specifically on item-level dimensionality models, contributed significantly to the development of more accurate and adaptive testing systems. The ability to develop a live-CAT system capable of adaptively measuring student language abilities set the stage for his subsequent academic pursuits and laid the foundation for his future contributions in psychometrics and educational assessment.

During his time at Hacettepe University, Dr. Ozdemir deepened his understanding of the complexities of statistical methods and psychometric models, ensuring that his academic work would have a lasting impact on the field. His research addressed pressing issues in educational measurement, particularly in the realm of language testing, which remains an essential aspect of educational systems worldwide.

Professional Endeavors 💼

After completing his Ph.D., Dr. Ozdemir’s professional path took a decisive turn when he was appointed as a psychometrician at the National Centre for Assessment (NCA, Qiyas) in Saudi Arabia. His role involved applying his expertise to the development and implementation of high-stakes testing programs, primarily focused on language proficiency assessments. During his tenure from 2017 to 2019, Dr. Ozdemir contributed to refining the psychometric techniques used to evaluate test takers and ensure the validity and reliability of assessments across various domains.

In 2019, Dr. Ozdemir joined Prince Sultan University as both a faculty member and the Director of the Center for Statistics and Information (CSI). His leadership in this role was instrumental in enhancing the university’s statistical capabilities and fostering research in statistical modeling and measurement techniques. He played a pivotal role in organizing workshops and seminars that contributed to advancing statistical practices and knowledge-sharing within the academic community. Additionally, his research expanded to areas such as multilevel modeling and structural equation modeling (SEM), further enriching his contribution to educational research.

Currently, Dr. Ozdemir holds a faculty position at Alfaisal University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he continues to make a profound impact in the fields of operations management and project management. His ongoing research and teaching activities at Alfaisal University contribute to shaping the next generation of scholars in both statistical theory and applied methodologies.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Ozdemir’s research has had a significant influence on the fields of adaptive testing, psychometrics, and statistical modeling. His focus on multidimensional computerized adaptive testing (MCAT) has helped to redefine how educational assessments are designed and implemented. The core of his research lies in exploring the item-level dimensionality models that aim to improve the accuracy of adaptive tests, which is crucial for both educational institutions and testing agencies worldwide.

His research in item response theory (IRT) and multistage adaptive testing (MSAT) aims to create testing systems that are both efficient and adaptive, offering a more personalized testing experience for students. Dr. Ozdemir’s work also delves deeply into language testing, which has become even more critical as educational systems strive to assess language proficiency in an increasingly globalized world.

Moreover, his contributions to structural equation modeling (SEM) and multilevel modeling have broadened the scope of statistical tools used in social sciences, education, and psychology. His research has pushed the boundaries of how complex data can be interpreted and analyzed, providing insights that inform policy, curriculum development, and assessment practices.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Ozdemir’s academic achievements and contributions have not gone unnoticed. His work has earned him numerous accolades and recognition both within the academic community and in professional circles. A key highlight in his career was his selection for a visiting scholar position at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (USA), under the guidance of Dr. Hua Hua Chang. This prestigious opportunity allowed him to expand his academic network and engage in high-level research collaborations, further strengthening his expertise in psychometrics and statistical modeling.

In addition, Dr. Ozdemir’s research has been featured in leading international journals and conferences, cementing his reputation as a thought leader in the fields of adaptive testing and psychometrics. His role as a mentor and research advisor has also been instrumental in guiding graduate students and junior researchers, further amplifying his impact in academia.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Ozdemir’s work has had a profound impact on the field of educational measurement and assessment. By contributing to the development of more adaptive, personalized, and accurate testing systems, his research has influenced how educational institutions worldwide approach student assessment. The multidimensional computerized adaptive testing (MCAT) systems he helped develop have made significant strides in improving the quality of language assessments, ensuring that they are both reliable and fair.

Furthermore, his leadership roles at both Prince Sultan University and Alfaisal University have allowed him to influence academic curricula, shape research priorities, and mentor the next generation of scholars and professionals in the field of statistical modeling and psychometrics. His professional work at Qiyas and other organizations has helped shape assessment practices in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the evolution of educational standards in the region.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Looking to the future, Dr. Ozdemir is committed to continuing his work in adaptive testing, psychometrics, and statistical modeling. His future research will likely delve deeper into the intersection of machine learning and adaptive assessment systems, exploring ways to integrate more sophisticated algorithms to improve the precision and flexibility of assessments.

As he continues his academic career at Alfaisal University, Dr. Ozdemir plans to expand his research into multivariate statistics and structural equation modeling (SEM), exploring new methodologies for data analysis and contributing to the growing body of knowledge in these areas. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the students he teaches, the colleagues he mentors, and the lasting influence of his contributions to educational assessment systems around the world.

In conclusion, Dr. Burhanettin Ozdemir’s career exemplifies a relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of educational measurement and statistics. His research, leadership, and passion for advancing psychometric practices have left an indelible mark on both academia and professional testing organizations.

📝Notable Publications

An Innovative Deep Learning Framework for Skin Cancer Detection Employing ConvNeXtV2 and Focal Self-Attention Mechanisms

Authors: Ozdemir, B., Pacal, I.

Journal: Results in Engineering

Year: 2025

On Theoretical and Numerical Results of Serum Hepatitis Disease Using Piecewise Fractal–Fractional Perspectives

Authors: Khan, Z.A., Ali, A., Irshad, A.U.R., Ozdemir, B., Alrabaiah, H.

Journal: Fractal and Fractional

Year: 2024

Development and Validation of Simulation Scenario Quality Instrument (SSQI)

Authors: Mujlli, G., Al-Ghosen, A., Alrabah, R., Munshi, F., Ozdemir, B.

Journal: BMC Medical Education

Year: 2023

Using Advanced Analysis Together with Fractional Order Derivative to Investigate a Smoking Tobacco Cancer Model

Authors: Shah, I., Eiman, Alrabaiah, H., Ozdemir, B., Irshad, A.U.R.

Journal: Results in Physics

Year: 2023

Stability and Numerical Analysis via Non-Standard Finite Difference Scheme of a Nonlinear Classical and Fractional Order Model

Authors: Alrabaiah, H., Din, R.U., Ansari, K.J., ur Rehman Irshad, A., Ozdemir, B.

Journal: Results in Physics

Year: 2023

Dr. Inam Ullah Khan | Decision-making and Problem-solving |Excellence in Research

Posted on 27/12/202427/12/2024 by Leadership and Management

Dr. Inam Ullah Khan | Decision-making and Problem-solving |Excellence in Research

Southern Methodist University, United States

Profile

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Inam Ullah Khan’s journey in academia began with a strong foundation in Electrical and Computer Engineering, culminating in a Ph.D. in this field. His early academic endeavors were marked by a passion for machine learning, intelligent systems, and energy optimization. During his graduate studies, he gained deep insights into the integration of advanced computational techniques with practical, real-world challenges, especially in renewable energy systems. His early research focused on optimization algorithms for energy management, exploring the potential of AI and machine learning in transforming energy systems into smarter, more efficient entities.

This phase of Dr. Khan’s academic journey set the stage for his later career, as he developed a keen interest in how technology can enhance the efficiency of various sectors, including transportation, logistics, and aviation. His academic work was characterized by the use of innovative approaches such as data-driven analysis, statistical modeling, and predictive analytics. These techniques helped him make important contributions to the development of systems that use big data for optimization and forecasting, a theme that would continue to shape his career.

Professional Endeavors 🔬

Dr. Khan’s professional journey is a testament to his ability to merge cutting-edge research with real-world applications. After completing his Ph.D., he transitioned to the role of Assistant Professor at the Lyle School of Engineering, Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he continues to shape the next generation of engineers. His teaching and research are centered around machine learning, intelligent systems, and renewable energy, with a focus on integrating these disciplines to create solutions for complex engineering problems. Dr. Khan is not only responsible for the academic development of his students but is also deeply involved in mentoring graduate students, advising on research projects, and helping them develop their own academic paths.

His involvement in high-impact projects, including the Transportation Electrification Project and 6G Networks Optimization, underscores his commitment to addressing global challenges in sectors like energy, cybersecurity, and telecommunications. By integrating his technical expertise with industry partnerships, Dr. Khan has proven his ability to lead large-scale, interdisciplinary research initiatives that span diverse fields.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔍

Dr. Khan’s contributions to machine learning, energy optimization, and intelligent systems have been significant and transformative. His research focuses on harnessing the power of data analytics and AI to solve real-world problems. In the Transportation Electrification Project, for instance, he develops predictive models that analyze large datasets to optimize transportation and logistics networks. These efforts are critical in the push for more sustainable energy solutions in the transportation sector.

In addition, Dr. Khan has worked on 5G/6G systems, optimizing network efficiency and security. His research on the integration of multimodal data from IoT sensors, edge devices, and cloud systems has led to novel insights in improving the performance and quality of service (QoS) in modern communication networks.

Through his work, Dr. Khan aims to bridge the gap between AI and real-world applications, making complex systems more efficient and secure, while also addressing pressing global challenges like climate change and cybersecurity.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout his career, Dr. Khan has earned multiple accolades for his contributions to research and teaching. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles in prestigious journals, earning recognition from both academia and industry. His work has been presented at high-profile international conferences, where it has garnered attention from global experts in machine learning, AI, and renewable energy.

Dr. Khan’s expertise has also led to several research grants and external funding for his projects, particularly those that intersect with energy optimization and transportation electrification. His ability to secure funding is a testament to his innovative approach and the real-world impact of his work. Furthermore, he is regularly invited to contribute to academic and industry committees, further enhancing his reputation as a thought leader in his field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Khan’s work has had a lasting impact on the fields of machine learning, energy systems, and telecommunications. His research on data-driven optimization for renewable energy has contributed significantly to the development of more efficient and sustainable energy solutions. By integrating AI with real-time data, Dr. Khan has helped shape the future of intelligent systems that support the transition to green energy.

His collaborations with industry partners, including the Dallas Chamber of Commerce, have helped to apply research insights to marginalized communities, demonstrating the social relevance of his work. Through his mentorship and teaching, Dr. Khan has influenced a new generation of engineers and researchers, encouraging them to pursue innovative solutions to global challenges.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Dr. Khan’s legacy is already being shaped by his contributions to machine learning, renewable energy, and telecommunications. His work is helping to transform industries, making them more efficient, secure, and sustainable. Looking ahead, Dr. Khan plans to continue his research in AI-driven energy optimization and expand his focus on smart cities, transportation electrification, and sustainable development. He is committed to furthering the integration of AI in real-world applications, particularly in renewable energy systems and cybersecurity, ensuring that technology continues to benefit society at large.

Through his ongoing efforts in education, research, and community engagement, Dr. Khan is poised to leave an enduring mark on both academia and industry. His future work promises to continue pushing the boundaries of engineering innovation, tackling global challenges, and making the world a smarter, safer, and more sustainable place.

📝Notable Publications

Heuristic algorithm based optimal power flow model incorporating stochastic renewable energy sources

Authors: IU Khan, N Javaid, KAA Gamage, CJ Taylor, S Baig, X Ma

Journal: IEEE Access

Year: 2020

A Stacked Machine and Deep Learning-Based Approach for Analysing Electricity Theft in Smart Grids

Authors: IU Khan, N Javaid, CJ Taylor, KAA Gamage, X Ma

Journal: IEEE Transactions on Smart Grid

Year: 2022

Robust Data Driven Analysis for Electricity Theft Attack-Resilient Power Grid

Authors: IU Khan, N Javaid, CJ Taylor, X Ma

Journal: IEEE Transactions on Power Systems

Year: 2023

Optimal power flow with uncertain renewable energy sources using flower pollination algorithm

Authors: M Abdullah, N Javaid, IU Khan, ZA Khan, A Chand, N Ahmad

Journal: Advanced Information Networking and Applications: Proceedings of the 33rd …

Year: 2020

Big Data Analytics based Short Term Load Forecasting Model for Residential Buildings in Smart Grids

Authors: IU Khan, N Javaid, CJ Taylor, KAA Gamage, X Ma

Journal: IEEE INFOCOM 2020 – IEEE Conference on Computer Communications Workshops

Year: 2020

Ms. SuPing ZHANG | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Scholar Award

Posted on 10/12/2024 by Leadership and Management

Ms. SuPing ZHANG | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Scholar Award

Fenyang college of Shanxi Medical University, China

Profile

Scopus

📚 Early Academic Pursuits

Suping Zhang’s academic journey began with a strong focus on information resource management, setting the stage for her future contributions to health information and literacy. As a dedicated scholar, she laid a solid foundation by mastering essential theories and practices, equipping herself with the knowledge and skills to tackle pressing issues in health information systems. Her commitment to academic excellence led her to a position as an associate professor at Fenyang College of Shanxi Medical University and later as a visiting scholar at Renmin University of China, where she further honed her expertise in health information management.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Throughout her illustrious career, Suping Zhang has embraced diverse professional roles, balancing academic responsibilities, research initiatives, and mentorship with ease. She has been at the forefront of exploring the intricate intersections of health information, literacy, and management. Her leadership extends to overseeing significant research projects, including 2 provincial-level scientific research initiatives, a city-level project in Lvliang, and 4 institute-level scientific endeavors. Additionally, her role in guiding quality courses and student innovation projects highlights her dedication to fostering academic growth and innovation.

Suping has also demonstrated a keen ability to collaborate effectively, contributing as an editor of five textbooks and an author of two books, thereby enriching the academic landscape with her insights and expertise. Her professional endeavors reflect a deep-seated commitment to advancing knowledge and inspiring the next generation of scholars.

🛠️ Contributions and Research Focus

Suping Zhang’s research portfolio is a testament to her scholarly rigor and innovative thinking. Her primary research interests lie at the nexus of health information, information literacy, and health management. One of her most impactful studies involves constructing a theoretical framework to understand the factors influencing proxy health information-seeking behavior (PHISB). By employing semi-structured in-depth interviews and grounded theory methodologies, she identified critical factors such as information quality, inherent cognition, rational cognition, and perceptual cognition.

This groundbreaking work offers valuable insights into improving the effectiveness of PHISB, particularly in middle-aged populations in China, and holds significant implications for health communication strategies. Her study, published in Library & Information Science Research, underscores her dedication to addressing real-world challenges through robust academic inquiry.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Suping Zhang’s contributions have earned her widespread recognition in academic circles. With 22 published papers and numerous citations, her work continues to influence the fields of health information and literacy. Her leadership in presiding over high-impact research projects and mentoring student innovators reflects her standing as a respected academic and thought leader. Her accolades are not merely personal achievements but milestones that signify the broader impact of her work on the academic and health management communities.

🌏 Impact and Influence

Suping’s research has made a lasting impact by bridging the gap between theoretical exploration and practical application. Her work on PHISB provides actionable insights for improving health information dissemination and utilization, particularly in culturally specific contexts. Moreover, her role as an educator ensures that her findings and methodologies are integrated into the learning experiences of her students, thus amplifying their reach and relevance.

Beyond her academic output, Suping’s mentorship and leadership in guiding innovation projects have inspired students to pursue cutting-edge research and entrepreneurship. Her efforts to enhance health information systems resonate not only within academia but also in broader societal contexts, contributing to improved public health outcomes.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Suping Zhang’s legacy lies in her ability to combine academic excellence with societal relevance. Her work has laid the groundwork for future research in health information systems and literacy, offering a robust framework for addressing emerging challenges. As she continues to explore new dimensions of health management and information literacy, her contributions are poised to shape policy, education, and practice in meaningful ways.

Looking ahead, Suping aims to expand her research on PHISB to include diverse populations and global contexts, potentially collaborating with international researchers to develop universally applicable solutions. Her dedication to fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation ensures that her influence will continue to grow, leaving a lasting imprint on the fields she serves.

✨ Conclusion

Suping Zhang exemplifies the qualities of a transformative academic leader—innovative, collaborative, and impact-driven. Her early academic pursuits, professional endeavors, and research focus have converged to create a legacy of meaningful contributions to health information and literacy. As she advances in her career, her work promises to address complex challenges, inspire future generations, and redefine the landscape of health management and information systems.

📝Notable Publications

Factors influencing the effect of proxy health information seeking behavior: A grounded theory exploration

Authors: Zhang, S., Wang, N.

Journal: Library and Information Science Research

Year: 2024

Research on the Types, Process, Characteristics and Model of Proxy Health Information Seeking Behavior | 健康信息替代搜寻行为的类型、过程、特征和模型研究

Authors: Pei, J., Zhou, X., Zhang, S.

Journal: Journal of Modern Information

Year: 2024