Dr. Zhaoping Wu | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award |

Dr. Zhaoping Wu | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award |

Hangzhou City University, China

Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓📖

Dr. Zhaoping Wu’s academic journey began with a deep-seated interest in urban development and sustainability. Born in December 1994, he pursued higher education with a passion for understanding the complexities of urban ecosystems, inequality, and sustainability challenges. His early academic years were marked by a commitment to interdisciplinary research, blending environmental science, urban planning, and policy studies.

During his postgraduate studies, Dr. Wu honed his expertise in urban metabolism and sustainable production and consumption, focusing on the intricate relationships between human activities and natural ecosystems. His doctoral research provided valuable insights into the dynamics of urban ecosystem services, contributing to the broader discourse on sustainable city development.

Professional Endeavors and Academic Contributions 🏛️📚

Currently serving as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the School of Public Affairs, Zhejiang University, Dr. Wu has been instrumental in advancing research on urban sustainability. His work delves into urban inequality and ecosystem services, addressing crucial challenges faced by rapidly growing cities worldwide.

Dr. Wu collaborates with policymakers, urban planners, and researchers to develop data-driven strategies for sustainable urbanization. His contributions extend beyond academia, as he actively engages in public policy discussions, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and resilient urban planning.

His research is highly interdisciplinary, integrating insights from economics, environmental science, and social policy to develop sustainable frameworks for urban development. Through his numerous publications in high-impact journals, Dr. Wu has made significant contributions to the fields of urban metabolism and sustainable consumption patterns.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬📊

Dr. Wu’s research spans several critical areas, including:

  • Urban Sustainability: Exploring how cities can transition toward greener, more resilient infrastructures.
  • Urban Ecosystem Services: Investigating how natural systems within urban environments provide essential benefits to human populations.
  • Urban Inequality: Analyzing disparities in resource distribution, housing, and environmental justice.
  • Urban Metabolism: Understanding the flow of energy, materials, and resources through urban systems.
  • Sustainable Production and Consumption: Developing policies that promote responsible consumption and minimize environmental footprints.

His studies often employ quantitative modeling and spatial analysis techniques, providing empirical evidence to guide sustainable urban policy-making. By leveraging cutting-edge methodologies, Dr. Wu has contributed to a deeper understanding of how cities can balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆🎖️

Dr. Wu’s dedication to research has earned him multiple awards and recognitions in urban planning and sustainability studies. He has been invited to present his findings at prestigious international conferences, where his insights on urban ecosystem services and social equity have been widely appreciated.

Several of his research papers have been cited extensively, highlighting their relevance to contemporary urban challenges. His work has also influenced policy frameworks and sustainability guidelines, reinforcing his position as a thought leader in the field.

Impact and Influence on Urban Sustainability 🌱🏗️

Dr. Wu’s research has had a profound impact on both academia and practical urban planning. His findings have been utilized by government agencies, urban developers, and environmental organizations to craft policies that promote equitable and sustainable cities.

Through mentorship and collaborative projects, he has also shaped the next generation of sustainability researchers. His interdisciplinary approach has paved the way for new methodologies that integrate economic, social, and environmental dimensions of urban planning.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀🌏

Looking ahead, Dr. Wu envisions a future where cities are not only economically prosperous but also environmentally and socially inclusive. His upcoming research aims to develop AI-driven models for predicting urban sustainability trends, leveraging big data and machine learning to enhance urban resilience planning.

He is also working on initiatives that focus on climate adaptation strategies for urban environments, ensuring that cities remain livable in the face of climate change. By fostering cross-sector collaborations and engaging in policy dialogues, Dr. Wu continues to push the boundaries of urban sustainability research.

His legacy lies in his ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing actionable insights that shape the future of urban landscapes. As an advocate for sustainable urban transformation, Dr. Wu remains committed to driving meaningful change in how cities evolve and adapt to global challenges.

📝Notable Publications

 Improving the sustainability of milk production across different climate regions in China

Authors: Z. Wu, Zhaoping; Y. Du, Yuanyuan; G. Yang, Guofu; Y. Ge, Ying; J. Chang, Jie
Journal: Sustainable Production and Consumption
Year: 2024

Ms. Minxian Sun | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Minxian Sun | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Goethe Universität Frankfurt, Germany

Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Cornelia Storz embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in both economics and Japanese studies. She earned her Master of Arts in Business Administration and Japanese Studies from the University of Bonn in 1992, demonstrating an early interdisciplinary approach that would define her career. Her passion for understanding economic structures led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Economics at the University of Duisburg-Essen, which she completed in 1996. During this period, she deepened her engagement with Japanese economic systems through multiple research opportunities in Japan, including at the Research Institute of Economy, Trade and Industry (RIETI) and the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI). These formative years shaped her expertise in innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly within the context of Japan and East Asia.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Following her doctoral studies, Storz quickly ascended the academic ranks. She began her teaching career as a Lecturer at the University for Applied Sciences, Bremen, in 1996. By 1997, she had secured a tenured professorship in Japanese Economy and Society at the same institution. Her deep knowledge of Japan’s business and economic structures made her a sought-after scholar, leading her to Philipps University, Marburg, in 2001, where she chaired the Japanese Economy department. Finally, in 2007, she joined Goethe University Frankfurt as a Professor and Chair of Innovation and Entrepreneurship with a focus on Japan and East Asia. Over the years, she has held numerous visiting research positions at prestigious institutions worldwide, including Stanford University, Hitotsubashi University, and the University of Tokyo, solidifying her status as a leading expert in her field.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Storz’s research sits at the intersection of digital innovation, high-tech entrepreneurship, and institutional change. Her work explores how innovation ecosystems evolve, how firms collaborate within networks, and how institutional frameworks shape entrepreneurship, particularly in East Asia. She has extensively examined the role of established firms and their ability to innovate within structured institutional environments. Additionally, she has investigated the significance of university-industry linkages in emerging economies, particularly in China. Her interdisciplinary approach incorporates insights from economics, management, and institutional theory, making her research highly influential in both academic and policy-making circles.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout her career, Storz has been the recipient of numerous fellowships, grants, and awards. Her most recent research projects include a 2024–2026 grant from the German Research Foundation (DFG) for her work on the “Visual Turn in Management Research” and a 2021–2024 collaborative project funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), examining European firms’ cooperation with Chinese universities. These prestigious grants underscore her continued contributions to the fields of innovation and entrepreneurship. Her ability to secure competitive funding highlights her research’s impact and relevance in contemporary economic and business studies.

Impact and Influence 📈

Storz’s influence extends far beyond academia. Her research has played a crucial role in shaping policy discussions on innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly regarding East Asia. By bridging theoretical frameworks with empirical research, she has provided valuable insights for businesses, policymakers, and fellow scholars. Her collaborations with leading institutions and researchers worldwide have fostered cross-cultural academic dialogue and influenced the broader discourse on innovation systems and economic development. Moreover, her mentorship of students and young researchers has contributed to the next generation of scholars in entrepreneurship and innovation studies.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌐

Looking ahead, Storz’s legacy is poised to continue growing. With her ongoing projects exploring new dimensions of institutional change, technological innovation, and entrepreneurial networks, she remains at the forefront of research in her field. Her ability to adapt to evolving economic landscapes and integrate emerging technologies into her studies ensures that her work remains relevant and impactful. As digital transformation accelerates globally, her insights into how institutions and firms navigate these changes will continue to be invaluable. Through her dedication to advancing knowledge and fostering international collaboration, Cornelia Storz’s contributions will leave a lasting imprint on the study of innovation and entrepreneurship in Japan, East Asia, and beyond.

 

📝Notable Publications

Digital creatives and digital engineers: entrepreneurial firms, institutional context, and the organization of innovation

Authors: Miozzo, M., Storz, C., Casper, S.

Journal: Socio-Economic Review

Year: 2024

The emergence of an entrepreneurial ecosystem: the interplay between early entrepreneurial activity and public policy in the Korean online gaming industry

Authors: Casper, S., Miozzo, M., Storz, C.

Journal: Industry and Innovation

Year: 2024

Why do some entrepreneurs thrive? A network content perspective

Authors: Zou, N., Storz, C.

Journal: Journal of Business Research

Year: 2023

University satellite institutes as exogenous facilitators of technology transfer ecosystem development

Authors: Conlé, M., Kroll, H., Storz, C., ten Brink, T.

Journal: Journal of Technology Transfer

Year: 2023

Innovation in emerging economies: How do university-industry linkages and public procurement matter for small businesses?

Authors: Storz, C., ten Brink, T., Zou, N.

Journal: Asia Pacific Journal of Management

Year: 2022

Mr. Zhou Chen Junnan | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zhou Chen Junnan | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

China Agricultural University, China

Profile 

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Zhou Chenjunnan, a master’s degree student at China Agricultural University, has shown an unwavering commitment to the field of resources and the environment. Specializing in the resource utilization of solid waste, Zhou’s academic journey is marked by curiosity and determination. During undergraduate studies, Zhou developed a deep interest in the management and recycling of organic waste, laying a strong foundation for future research endeavors. This passion led to an advanced academic focus on composting processes and the challenges of sustainable waste management, a crucial topic for addressing global environmental issues.

Professional Endeavors and Research Focus 🔬

Currently, Zhou’s research revolves around resource utilization through aerobic composting of biomass waste, particularly in controlled ecological life support systems (CELSS). These systems are integral to long-term manned space missions, where waste recycling and environmental control are critical. Zhou has spearheaded a key research project under the auspices of the Key Laboratory of Human Factors Engineering, investigating the oxygen demand patterns during biomass waste degradation and developing a low-oxygen composting process. This work exemplifies innovation in integrating environmental sustainability with cutting-edge aerospace applications.

Zhou has authored and co-authored four significant research articles, including two first-authored papers published in prestigious EI and SCI-indexed journals. These papers explore the feasibility of composting organic solid waste in CELSS and the microbial enhancements associated with such processes. Additionally, Zhou’s expertise extends to odor control in livestock and poultry waste, where research on deodorizing strains has determined optimal spraying techniques for minimizing emissions.

Contributions and Impact 🌍

Zhou’s contributions to solid waste management are both theoretical and practical. The extensive study of CELSS organic waste has clarified its composting feasibility and microbial enhancement effects. Zhou’s work on optimizing oxygen supply parameters during composting stages has been instrumental in improving waste recycling methods within CELSS environments. This not only advances sustainability in space exploration but also provides innovative solutions for terrestrial waste management challenges.

Further, Zhou has contributed to odor control research, focusing on reducing the environmental impact of livestock and poultry farming. By experimenting with composite deodorizing bacteria, Zhou has determined effective strategies for mitigating odor emissions under varying conditions, a breakthrough with potential applications in agricultural and industrial sectors.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Zhou’s dedication to research has been recognized on national and international platforms. A notable milestone was participation in the Third National Conference on Environmental Control and Life Support Technology for Manned Spaceflight, where Zhou’s research was featured prominently as a wallpaper presentation and included in the conference abstracts. This recognition underscores the relevance and quality of Zhou’s work in advancing environmental sustainability in space and beyond.

Zhou’s innovative contributions have also resulted in two published invention patents:

  1. A method for preparing functional liquid fertilizer by compounding kitchen waste biogas slurry with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (202311738373.4).
  2. A deodorizing strain, deodorizing agent, and its application (202411423358.5).

These patents reflect a practical application of research findings, further cementing Zhou’s role as a transformative thinker in waste resource utilization.

Impact and Influence ✨

Zhou’s research addresses global challenges in sustainable waste management by bridging gaps between theory and application. The work on CELSS offers critical insights for long-term human survival in isolated environments, such as space missions, while the studies on odor control contribute to improving environmental quality on Earth. Zhou’s focus on microbial enhancements and low-oxygen composting processes represents a significant step toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and optimizing waste recycling.

Moreover, Zhou’s innovative approach has influenced peers and collaborators in the academic and professional communities, inspiring new lines of inquiry in sustainable technologies. By presenting findings in prominent journals such as Journal of Space: Science & Technology and Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, Zhou ensures the dissemination of valuable knowledge to global audiences.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Looking ahead, Zhou aims to expand research into advanced composting technologies and develop scalable solutions for urban and rural waste management. With a vision to integrate biotechnological advancements into environmental engineering, Zhou aspires to contribute to building a more sustainable world. Plans include collaborating with international research institutions to refine CELSS technologies and exploring applications in circular economies.

Zhou’s legacy is rooted in a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. The ability to combine theoretical insights with practical applications highlights Zhou’s potential to become a leading figure in resource and environmental engineering.

📝Notable Publications

The Production of Solid Wastes in CELSS and the Difficulties in Recycling by Composting: A Review

Authors: Chenjunnan Zhou, Zhao Xu, Lingxiao Wang, Rulu Qiao, Yanming Li, Ruixue Chang, Weidang Ai

Journal: Space: Science & Technology

Year: 2024

Prof Keun-Ah Cheon | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Prof Keun-Ah Cheon | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, Seoul, South Korea

Profile 

Google Scholar 

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Keun-Ah Cheon’s academic journey began at Yonsei University College of Medicine, one of South Korea’s most prestigious medical schools. She earned her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree in 1994 after completing her six-year program, laying the foundation for her career in psychiatry. She pursued a Master’s degree in Medical Science from the same institution between 1996 and 1999. Her master’s thesis, titled “The Effect of Haloperidol on Regional Cerebral Blood Flow Assessed with 99m-Tc-ECD SPECT in Schizophrenic Patients,” reflected her early interest in understanding the neurological underpinnings of psychiatric disorders.

Dr. Cheon’s academic journey continued with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, also from Yonsei University, where she developed a diagnostic instrument for Korean children with ADHD and explored the genetic links between ADHD and the Dopamine D4 receptor gene (DRD4). This work was pivotal in expanding the understanding of ADHD in the South Korean context, aligning her research with both clinical practice and genetic psychiatry.

Professional Endeavors 🩺

Dr. Cheon’s professional career took off at Kwandong University College of Medicine, where she served as Assistant Professor and Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry from 2003 to 2008. Her leadership in this role set a strong foundation for her future endeavors. During this period, Dr. Cheon not only contributed to the academic community but also gained hands-on experience as the Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, solidifying her reputation as a leading expert in the field.

In 2009, Dr. Cheon expanded her horizons with a year-long visiting scholar position at the Developmental Neuroimaging Laboratory in the Center for Autism Research at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, part of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. This experience exposed her to cutting-edge research in developmental neuroimaging, enabling her to apply advanced techniques and global perspectives to her work in South Korea.

Upon returning to Yonsei University College of Medicine, Dr. Cheon was promoted to Associate Professor in 2010, continuing to direct the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. In 2017, she was promoted to Professor, a position she continues to hold, making substantial contributions to psychiatric education and research.

Contributions and Research Focus 🧠

Dr. Cheon’s research interests span several critical areas of child and adolescent psychiatry, with a particular focus on developmental disorders such as ADHD and autism. Her early research centered on understanding the genetic foundations of ADHD, specifically investigating the association between ADHD and the Dopamine D4 receptor gene (DRD4). This focus on neurobiological mechanisms highlighted her commitment to bridging clinical psychiatry with molecular science.

As Director of the Severance Autism and Developmental Disorder Center since 2023, Dr. Cheon has expanded her research into autism spectrum disorders. Under her leadership, the center has become a hub for innovative research and treatment strategies, designated by South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare. This role also underscores her ability to translate research findings into real-world therapeutic interventions for children with developmental disorders.

Her contributions are not limited to clinical psychiatry and research; Dr. Cheon is actively involved in the development of diagnostic tools tailored to the South Korean population, reflecting her focus on culturally sensitive psychiatric care. She has made significant strides in improving the understanding of child and adolescent mental health issues in the local context, contributing to a body of work that has influenced national policies and practices.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Dr. Cheon’s dedication to the field has earned her numerous accolades. Since March 2024, she has been serving as the President of the Korean Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (KACAP), a prestigious role that recognizes her leadership and expertise in the field. Her election to this position is a testament to her influence and the respect she commands within the psychiatric community in South Korea.

Additionally, her leadership roles at Yonsei University and beyond have further solidified her reputation as a key figure in psychiatric research and education. As Deputy Director of the Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine and Director of the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Cheon plays a crucial role in shaping psychiatric research and clinical practice.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Cheon’s influence extends beyond South Korea. Her work in neuroimaging, autism, and ADHD has earned international recognition, particularly her collaboration with the Center for Autism Research at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. This experience allowed her to integrate global best practices into her research and clinical work, contributing to improved diagnostic and treatment methodologies in South Korea.

As an educator, Dr. Cheon has mentored countless students, residents, and fellows in psychiatry, shaping the next generation of child and adolescent psychiatrists. Her role as a professor at Yonsei University has provided her with a platform to share her expertise and knowledge, influencing both clinical practice and psychiatric education.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Looking forward, Dr. Cheon’s contributions are poised to leave a lasting legacy in child and adolescent psychiatry. Her leadership at the Severance Autism and Developmental Disorder Center and her presidency at KACAP indicate that she will continue to be a driving force in shaping the future of psychiatric care and research in South Korea.

Her ongoing work in understanding the genetic basis of psychiatric disorders, combined with her commitment to improving diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions, will likely lead to groundbreaking advancements in the field. As a trailblazer in child and adolescent psychiatry, Dr. Cheon’s influence will undoubtedly continue to grow, ensuring her legacy as a leader in both South Korean and global psychiatry.

Conclusion 🔍

Dr. Keun-Ah Cheon’s career exemplifies a dedication to improving the understanding and treatment of psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents. From her early academic pursuits at Yonsei University to her current leadership roles, her contributions to psychiatry have had a profound impact both nationally and internationally. Through her research, clinical work, and mentorship, Dr. Cheon has cemented her place as a pivotal figure in child and adolescent mental health, and her legacy will continue to shape the field for years to come.

📝Notable Publications

Prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in a total population sample

Authors: Y.S. Kim, B.L. Leventhal, Y.J. Koh, E. Fombonne, E. Laska, E.C. Lim, K.A. Cheon, et al.
Journal: American Journal of Psychiatry
Volume: 168
Issue: 9
Pages: 904-912
Year: 2011

Genomic relationships, novel loci, and pleiotropic mechanisms across eight psychiatric disorders

Authors: P.H. Lee, V. Anttila, H. Won, Y.C.A. Feng, J. Rosenthal, Z. Zhu, E.M. Tucker-Drob, et al.
Journal: Cell
Volume: 179
Issue: 7
Pages: 1469-1482.e11
Year: 2019

The reliability and validity of kiddie-schedule for affective disorders and schizophrenia-present and lifetime version-Korean version (K-SADS-PL-K)

Authors: Y.S. Kim, K.A. Cheon, B.N. Kim, S.A. Chang, H.J. Yoo, J.W. Kim, S.C. Cho, et al.
Journal: Yonsei Medical Journal
Volume: 45
Issue: 1
Pages: 81-89
Year: 2004

Characteristics of brains in autism spectrum disorder: structure, function and connectivity across the lifespan

Authors: S. Ha, I.J. Sohn, N. Kim, H.J. Sim, K.A. Cheon
Journal: Experimental Neurobiology
Volume: 24
Issue: 4
Pages: 273
Year: 2015

A comparison of DSM-IV pervasive developmental disorder and DSM-5 autism spectrum disorder prevalence in an epidemiologic sample

Authors: Y.S. Kim, E. Fombonne, Y.J. Koh, S.J. Kim, K.A. Cheon, B.L. Leventhal
Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Volume: 53
Issue: 5
Pages: 500-508
Year: 2014