Assist Prof Dr. Kaan Koçali | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award | 3938

Assist Prof Dr. Kaan Koçali | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul Gelisim University, Turkey

Author Profile

Scopus 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Asst. Prof. Kaan Koçali began his academic journey with a strong foundation in engineering, completing his undergraduate degree in Mining Engineering at İstanbul University-Cerrahpaşa between 2007 and 2011. His passion for applied sciences and industrial safety led him to pursue further studies in related fields. He earned a postgraduate degree in Mining Engineering at the same institution while also simultaneously expanding his expertise in Occupational Health and Safety at Istanbul Aydin University.

Driven by a commitment to continuous learning, Dr. Koçali pursued interdisciplinary postgraduate studies in Occupational Health and Safety and later earned a Ph.D. from Istanbul Aydin University, focusing on health and safety within the mining industry. His doctoral research dealt with a legal and systemic analysis of supervisory roles in mining operations, underscoring his dedication to enhancing workplace safety. Remarkably, he also undertook another undergraduate program in Entrepreneurship at Istanbul Kültür University, highlighting his multifaceted academic interest in combining business acumen with technical expertise.

🛠️ Professional Endeavors

Professionally, Asst. Prof. Koçali has established himself as a respected academic and practitioner in occupational health, safety engineering, and risk management. Since 2021, he has held a faculty position at Istanbul Gelişim Vocational School, where he continues to teach and mentor the next generation of safety professionals and engineers.

His professional development is bolstered by a rich array of certifications and trainings spanning over a decade. These include high-level credentials in ISO management systems (14001, 45001, 9001, and 22000), fire safety, workplace health risk management, project writing, and safety auditing. His association with international institutions such as NEBOSH and IOSH further enhances his global perspective and professional standing.

From his early roles in technical inspection and risk assessment to training in drone operation and demolition techniques, Koçali’s career is a blend of theoretical depth and field-level expertise. This unique combination positions him as both a scholar and a practitioner in the safety domain.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Asst. Prof. Koçali’s research spans several domains, primarily focusing on occupational health and safety, ergonomics, social security systems, and workforce efficiency. His academic investigations have addressed systemic gaps in legal compliance, safety culture, and risk assessment in high-risk industries such as mining.

In his 2021 doctoral dissertation, he designed a software-based tracking and control system to streamline legal obligations of mine safety supervisors in accordance with Turkish laws (3213 and 6331). His earlier postgraduate thesis evaluated the safety culture in mining using worker surveys—showcasing a data-driven approach to safety enhancement. Another research effort explored the impact of boron compounds on solar panel performance, demonstrating his ability to bridge environmental concerns with engineering innovations.

Through his academic output and structured training modules, he has contributed significantly to the development of professional standards in occupational safety, particularly in Turkey’s industrial landscape.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Koçali’s professional excellence is reflected in his extensive list of certifications, many of which are awarded by internationally recognized bodies. These accolades validate his authority in occupational health and safety, from entry-level training to elite auditor qualifications.

His roles as certified lead auditor, NEBOSH safety trainer, and ISO standards expert have not only earned him professional credibility but have also made him a sought-after educator and consultant in both academic and industrial circles.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Asst. Prof. Koçali’s work has had tangible influence in shaping both academic programs and safety protocols across multiple sectors. Through his teaching at Istanbul Gelişim University and his participation in professional associations like TMMOB, he has mentored numerous students and professionals in navigating occupational risks.

He has been instrumental in fostering a safety-first culture in Turkish workplaces by aligning engineering practices with international safety standards. His cross-disciplinary knowledge allows him to address challenges from both managerial and technical perspectives, making his impact deeply felt in policy, training, and operations.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Koçali aims to continue contributing to policy development, legal compliance systems, and safety education. His entrepreneurial education suggests a desire to integrate innovation and startup culture into occupational safety solutions.

With ongoing research, academic supervision, and curriculum development, his legacy will likely include creating a generation of safety-conscious engineers and managers. His work reflects a balance between technological advancement and human-centered design, ensuring sustainable and ethical progress in occupational environments.

As he continues to enrich his profile with global collaborations and evolving methodologies, Asst. Prof. Koçali stands as a dedicated leader in engineering safety and professional education.

Notable Publications

Occupational Health and Safety Social Policy Reviews

Author: Kaan Koçali
Publisher: Özgür Publishing
Year: 2025

Occupational Health Services in Workplaces

Author: Kaan Koçali
Book Title: Employee Health and Occupational Safety
Year: 2025

: An Ergonomic Perspective on the Analysis of Postural Behaviors of Factory Workers: A Human Factors-Based Evaluation

Author: Kaan Koçali
Conference: 1st International Conference on Pioneer and Academic Research
Year: 2025

Analysis of Work Accidents in Shipyards and Preventive Strategies: An Evaluation with AHP Method

Author: Kaan Koçali
Conference: 10th International Congress of Scientific Research and Innovation
Year: 2025

Assessment of Occupational Health and Safety Risks in Disaster Logistics Operations: An Integrated Approach Based on the Example of the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes

Author: Kaan Koçali
Conference: 4th International Conference on Trends in Advanced Research
Year: 2025

Mrs. Chengcheng Fan | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Chengcheng Fan | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

School of Civil Engineering, Zhengzhou University, China

Author Profile

ORCID

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Chengcheng Fan’s journey into the world of materials science and civil engineering began with a strong academic foundation laid at the North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Inorganic Non-metallic Materials Engineering from 2010 to 2014. His early fascination with materials, particularly their role in structural integrity and sustainability, spurred him to deepen his knowledge further. This academic curiosity led him to continue at the same institution for a Master’s degree in Architecture and Civil Engineering (2014–2017), where he honed his skills in design, construction methods, and the application of advanced materials in infrastructure development.

Chengcheng’s growing interest in material innovation for environmental sustainability culminated in his enrollment at the prestigious Dalian University of Technology, where he earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science between 2017 and 2022. During his doctoral studies, he engaged in cutting-edge research involving the transformation and reuse of industrial by-products—a theme that would go on to define his professional career.

🧪 Professional Endeavors and Research Focus

Following his doctorate, Chengcheng Fan joined Dalian University of Technology as a Postdoctoral Researcher and Research Assistant from 2023 to early 2025. During this period, he was deeply involved in high-level research focused on solid waste resource utilization, particularly the treatment and repurposing of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash. His technical proficiency and innovative approach led to substantial contributions to national and provincial research projects.

In April 2025, Chengcheng Fan began his tenure as an Associate Research Fellow at the School of Civil Engineering, Zhengzhou University, further solidifying his place in academia. His research continues to bridge the gap between material science and environmental sustainability, especially in developing eco-friendly building materials from industrial waste—a field critical to China’s carbon neutrality goals and global environmental commitments.

His active research projects include leadership roles in the Youth Fund Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Natural Science Foundation of Liaoning Province, and the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (CPSF). Furthermore, his collaborative efforts have contributed to high-impact national initiatives, such as the Key Project Supported by the Joint Funds of NSFC (U20A20324) and the Dalian Science and Technology Innovation Fund Project.

🧬 Contributions and Innovations

Chengcheng Fan has made noteworthy contributions to material engineering and waste management through both academic research and practical invention. His innovations are most evident in the patents he co-authored, specifically targeting the stabilization and reutilization of MSWI fly ash. His patented curing and solidifying agents represent a significant step forward in safe, efficient, and sustainable waste treatment.

Among these is the U.S. patent (US 11919811 B1) awarded in 2024 for a curing agent designed to dispose of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash. This patent not only underlines the novelty of his research but also signals international recognition. Another patent was registered in South Africa (202210979999.3), showcasing the global applicability and appeal of his research outcomes.

His scholarly impact is steadily growing, as reflected in his citation index of 17, and his influence is expected to increase as more of his work reaches wider academic and industrial audiences.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

While Chengcheng Fan is in the early stages of his independent research career, his role as Principal Investigator on multiple nationally funded projects attests to the academic community’s recognition of his potential. Receiving funding from prestigious bodies such as the NSFC and CPSF is a testament to both the originality and importance of his work.

His patents and published works have also garnered attention from industry stakeholders focused on building materials and solid waste management, paving the way for impactful collaboration between academia and the private sector.

🌱 Impact, Influence, and Future Legacy

Chengcheng Fan’s research holds tremendous promise in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time: sustainable development through the reuse of industrial by-products. By engineering innovative materials from waste, he contributes directly to reducing environmental burdens and advancing circular economy practices in China and beyond.

He stands at the intersection of materials science, civil engineering, and environmental sustainability. His work not only helps shape cleaner cities but also informs the training of the next generation of engineers and researchers. As an emerging academic leader, Chengcheng’s influence is growing both within his university and the broader scientific community.

Looking ahead, his commitment to eco-innovative engineering, coupled with his experience in high-level collaborative projects, positions him to become a pivotal figure in sustainable infrastructure research. His legacy will likely be marked by groundbreaking discoveries, practical applications in waste reutilization, and meaningful contributions to both environmental policy and green engineering education.

🔭 Looking Forward

With a strong academic pedigree, a portfolio of impactful patents, and a clear research vision, Chengcheng Fan is well on his way to establishing a lasting legacy in sustainable civil engineering. As he continues his work at Zhengzhou University, he is poised to lead transformative projects that not only solve technical challenges but also contribute to global environmental goals. 🌏

📝Notable Publications

Adsorption behavior and mechanism of Cr(III) adsorption on layered double hydroxide and its calcined product in a strongly alkaline environment

Authors: Baomin Wang, Weigao Ding, Chengcheng Fan, Fei Liu, Haohan Yu
Journal: Powder Technology
Year: 2025

Development and Validation of Asphalt Pavement Rutting Prediction Model with Transient Temperature Field Considered

Authors: Fei Liu, Changjun Zhou, Baomin Wang, Zengtao Chen, Chengcheng Fan, Guozhen Cao
Journal: Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board
Year: 2025

Immobilization and coordination chemistry of Friedel’s salt (Ca/Al-LDHs) on heavy metals removal

Authors: Chengcheng Fan, Baomin Wang, Hu Feng, Hongyu Zhou, Yihan Zhang, Weigao Ding, Fei Liu
Journal: Process Safety and Environmental Protection
Year: 2025

Reaction Mechanism of Active Al₂O₃ Groups in Geopolymers: A DFT Study

Authors: Jiazhi Huang, Gaonian Li, Shipeng Zhang, Chengcheng Fan
Journal: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Year: 2024

 Investigating the interfacial vertical shear behavior of BFPMPC mortar and cement concrete with pothole repair

Authors: Fei Liu, Baomin Wang, Changjun Zhou, Zengtao Chen, Chengcheng Fan
Journal: Journal of Building Engineering
Year: 2024

Dr. Lei Xu | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lei Xu | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

University of South Australia Business School, Australia

Author Profile

Orcid

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Lei Xu’s academic path is marked by a clear vision and deep intellectual curiosity in the financial domain. He embarked on his scholarly journey at the University of South Australia, where he earned a Ph.D. in Finance in 2009. During these formative years, Dr. Xu cultivated a strong foundation in both the theoretical frameworks and empirical methodologies essential for rigorous financial research. His doctoral work laid the groundwork for future inquiries into financial systems, banking reforms, and the emerging dynamics of FinTech. His commitment to finance as both an academic and applied discipline became evident early on, positioning him for an impactful academic career. Even during his doctoral studies, his work reflected an awareness of real-world financial challenges and a forward-looking perspective that would characterize his later contributions.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Following the successful completion of his doctorate, Dr. Xu remained within the University of South Australia ecosystem, transitioning from student to faculty—a testament to his value within the institution. In 2017, he was appointed as a Senior Lecturer in Finance (Teaching & Research) at UniSA Business. In this dual capacity, Dr. Xu has demonstrated excellence in both pedagogy and scholarly inquiry. His teaching is known for blending conceptual clarity with industry relevance, ensuring that students not only understand financial theories but also appreciate their practical implications. Beyond the classroom, he has engaged in academic governance, curriculum development, and student mentorship, becoming a trusted and respected academic leader. His presence at UniSA enhances the university’s reputation in business education, especially in finance.

📊 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Xu’s research is situated at the intersection of banking, financial markets, financial reforms, green finance, and FinTech—areas of growing global importance. His scholarly efforts reflect a strong alignment with contemporary financial trends and societal needs. His work on green finance, for example, explores how financial instruments and markets can be leveraged to support sustainable development and combat climate change. This research is not only academically valuable but also socially consequential. In the realm of FinTech, Dr. Xu has examined how technological innovation is disrupting traditional banking structures and offering new models of financial inclusion and efficiency. His studies in banking and market reforms reveal a keen interest in regulatory transformations and institutional resilience. Collectively, these areas of inquiry signal a research agenda that is both versatile and responsive to the evolving financial landscape.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

While Dr. Xu may not trumpet his achievements, his steady rise within academia and sustained publication record reflect the esteem he commands among peers. As a Senior Lecturer, his role entails high expectations in research, teaching, and service, and his continued appointment signals his success in meeting and exceeding those expectations. His involvement in peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and collaborative research projects underscore his active engagement with the academic community. Furthermore, his role within UniSA positions him as a thought leader in finance education, where he is trusted to shape future curricula and guide institutional strategy in business teaching and research.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Xu’s influence extends beyond the university classroom. His research themes resonate with both academic and practitioner audiences, particularly in regions undergoing financial transformation or grappling with the integration of environmental and digital priorities in finance. His scholarship has the potential to inform policy decisions and influence industry practices, especially in sectors like sustainable finance and technological innovation in banking. Additionally, through his role at UniSA, he plays a crucial part in shaping the next generation of finance professionals. By equipping students with both critical thinking skills and a sense of global responsibility, Dr. Xu helps bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world financial impact.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Lei Xu is well-positioned to expand his influence in academia and beyond. As financial ecosystems worldwide continue to evolve, particularly under the pressures of climate change, digitization, and economic inequality, the relevance of his research will only grow. His continued focus on green finance and FinTech ensures that his work remains at the cutting edge of innovation and social impact. He may also emerge as a stronger voice in global financial policy discussions, contributing thought leadership that transcends traditional academic boundaries. His dedication to scholarly excellence and student development leaves a legacy not just of knowledge, but of purpose and progress