Dr. Fatemeh Tahmasebi | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fatemeh Tahmasebi | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine | Iran

Author Profile

Google Scholar 

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Fatemeh Tahmasebi began her academic journey with a strong focus on the medical sciences, specializing in the intricate field of human anatomy. Her academic pursuits were rooted in deep scientific curiosity, which laid the foundation for her future as a research-driven academic. Her doctoral studies concentrated on anatomical sciences, a discipline that demands both rigorous theoretical knowledge and exceptional laboratory proficiency. These formative years were critical in shaping her understanding of the complexities of the human nervous system, cellular interactions, and regenerative medicine—areas that would later become central to her research identity.

Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Tahmasebi has established herself as a dedicated academic and researcher. In her role as a faculty member, she not only contributes to the education of medical students but also actively mentors research scholars in highly technical, experimental studies. Her professional career has been consistently aligned with high-impact areas in neuroanatomy and tissue engineering, with particular focus on spinal cord injuries, neurodegeneration, and neural regeneration. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership in numerous research projects, often taking on the role of executive investigator, managing all aspects of experimental design, implementation, and data analysis.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Tahmasebi’s research portfolio is both extensive and multidisciplinary, merging neurobiology, stem cell therapy, nanotechnology, and regenerative medicine. She has made significant strides in developing innovative approaches to treating spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases using adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells, nanofiber scaffolds, and targeted drug delivery systems. Her research projects include studies on the phenotypic modulation of glial cells, the interaction of neurons and astrocytes in disease models, and the use of nanotechnology to enhance the efficacy of regenerative treatments.

One of her hallmark contributions is the use of polymeric and carbon nanotube-based scaffolds enriched with therapeutic agents like curcumin, hesperidin, and ellagic acid to enhance recovery in spinal cord injury models. Additionally, she has led groundbreaking investigations into the role of microRNAs in neural degeneration, especially in Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis models. Her pioneering work on the use of exosome-loaded hydrogels for targeted drug delivery exemplifies her dedication to translational research that bridges the gap between basic science and clinical application.

Dr. Tahmasebi’s research also extends to developmental neuroscience. She has explored how maternal diabetes impacts the expression of neurotransmitter receptors in neonates, offering insights into developmental neurobiology and the intergenerational effects of metabolic disorders.

Accolades and Recognition

Her scientific achievements are reflected in her prolific publication record in peer-reviewed, high-impact journals indexed in ISI, Scopus, PubMed, and other international databases. Many of her articles have been published in reputed journals such as the Journal of Cellular Physiology, Neuropeptides, Journal of Molecular Histology, Journal of Cellular Biochemistry, Cell Journal, and Journal of Chemical Neuroanatomy. In these works, she often appears as the first or corresponding author, demonstrating her leadership in research conceptualization and execution.

Beyond publications, Dr. Tahmasebi has also collaborated on several major research projects, bringing together expertise across multiple institutions and research centers. Her role as a co-investigator in numerous studies reflects her capacity to contribute both technically and intellectually to multidisciplinary scientific efforts.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Tahmasebi’s work has had a meaningful impact on both academic scholarship and biomedical research related to neuroregeneration. Her focus on integrating stem cell biology with nanomedicine to treat conditions like multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries addresses urgent global health challenges. Her research on microglial and astrocyte modulation has helped deepen understanding of the cellular microenvironment during neurodegeneration and repair. By advancing therapies that utilize bioengineered scaffolds and exosomes, she is actively shaping the future of neural tissue engineering and personalized regenerative medicine.

Furthermore, her contributions have inspired a new generation of researchers, particularly in Iran, to pursue high-level, applied biomedical research. Through her involvement in postgraduate mentorship and interdisciplinary collaborations, she is helping to build research capacity and elevate the scientific standards in anatomical and neurological sciences.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Fatemeh Tahmasebi’s academic legacy is one of innovation, collaboration, and commitment to societal health. Her work stands at the crossroads of anatomical science, regenerative medicine, and nanotechnology. As research in neural repair and neuroplasticity continues to evolve, she is well-positioned to lead new initiatives in translational neuroscience. Her future endeavors are likely to include the development of bioresponsive scaffolds, gene regulation therapies via miRNAs, and deeper investigations into neuroimmune interactions during injury recovery.

She is poised to further influence medical science not only through pioneering research but also through active engagement in scientific dissemination and community health education. Her continued presence in academia and research will undoubtedly contribute to a deeper understanding of complex neurobiological processes and the development of more effective therapeutic strategies.

Notable Publications

Effect of the CSF1R inhibitor PLX3397 on remyelination of corpus callosum in a cuprizone‐induced demyelination mouse model

Authors: F. Tahmasebi, P. Pasbakhsh, K. Mortezaee, S. Madadi, S. Barati, I.R. Kashani
Journal: Journal of Cellular Biochemistry
Year: 2019

Masitinib: The promising actor in the next season of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis treatment series

Authors: A.H.M.E. Ketabforoush, R. Chegini, S. Barati, F. Tahmasebi, B. Moghisseh, …
Journal: Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy
Year: 2023

Mesenchymal stem cell mediated effects on microglial phenotype in cuprizone‐induced demyelination model

Authors: S. Barati, I. Ragerdi Kashani, F. Moradi, F. Tahmasebi, S. Mehrabi, M. Barati, …
Journal: Journal of Cellular Biochemistry
Year: 2019

Astrocyte ablation induced by La-aminoadipate (L-AAA) potentiates remyelination in a cuprizone demyelinating mouse model

Authors: S. Madadi, P. Pasbakhsh, F. Tahmasebi, K. Mortezaee, M. Khanehzad, …
Journal: Metabolic Brain Disease
Year: 2019

The effect of microglial ablation and mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on a cuprizone‐induced demyelination model

Authors: F. Tahmasebi, P. Pasbakhsh, S. Barati, S. Madadi, I.R. Kashani
Journal: Journal of Cellular Physiology
Year: 2021

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bounmy Keohavong | Performance Management | Excellence in Research

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bounmy Keohavong | Performance Management | Excellence in Research

Souphanouvong University | Lao People’s Democratic Republic

Author Profile

ORCID

SCOPUS

Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bounmy Keohavong’s academic journey reflects a steady and purposeful progression in agricultural sciences. His foundation in Plant Science was laid at the National University of Laos, where his research explored soil erosion issues affecting upland agricultural regions—a critical challenge in sustainable farming. This early academic inquiry demonstrated his capacity to align scientific curiosity with pressing local agricultural needs.

Driven by a desire to expand his scientific capabilities and contribute to agricultural innovation, he pursued advanced studies at Kangwon National University in Korea. His Master’s research focused on the effects of natural and treated deep sea water on poultry health, highlighting his growing interest in animal nutrition and alternative resources in feed practices. His doctoral dissertation advanced this path further, evaluating the metabolizable energy values of biofuel by-products—an area gaining global attention due to its implications for sustainability and waste utilization. This formative academic training provided him with deep insights into agricultural ecosystems, nutrition, and feed biotechnology, setting the stage for a distinguished professional and research career.

Professional Endeavors

Since joining Souphanouvong University, Dr. Keohavong has demonstrated unwavering commitment to higher education and agricultural research. As an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Science, he has taught, mentored, and guided numerous students while cultivating a vibrant research culture. In his leadership capacity as Director of the Office of Research and Academic Services, he has managed competitive research grants, advanced graduate education initiatives, and elevated the university’s academic journal platforms.

His academic roles are complemented by significant contributions to regional development through external consultancy. As a National Specialist with the Asian Development Bank’s SPS (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) Project, he played a key role in strengthening Laos’ feed safety and food standards. His work included developing regulatory frameworks, designing testing and harmonization plans, conducting national training sessions, and contributing to Laos’ alignment with ASEAN and international safety protocols.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Keohavong’s research encompasses animal nutrition, feed biotechnology, and food safety governance. He is particularly recognized for his work on evaluating alternative feed ingredients derived from biofuel by-products, which address both economic and ecological concerns in livestock production. His expertise also includes feed formulation, nutrient analysis, and integrating statistical and econometric tools such as SPSS and STATA to analyze agricultural and policy data.

His involvement in research grant writing and academic journal management has helped foster an ecosystem of scholarly excellence within his institution. Furthermore, his engagement in national and regional policy dialogues has supported the implementation of science-based regulations in agricultural and food sectors, aligning them with ASEAN standards. His collaborative projects have strengthened research capacity, especially through international knowledge exchange and institutional partnerships.

Accolades and Recognition

While specific awards are not listed in his profile, Dr. Keohavong’s long-term roles within academia and his appointment to the ADB’s SPS project underscore his recognized authority in the field. His dual position as academic leader and national technical expert speaks volumes about the trust placed in his capabilities by educational and policy institutions alike. His scholarly work is documented and accessible via ORCID, reflecting transparency and international visibility. His leadership in academic service and policy-based consultancy further reinforces his professional credibility and institutional standing.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Keohavong’s influence is multidimensional—shaping student learning, enhancing institutional research capacity, and contributing to national food safety systems. At Souphanouvong University, he has been instrumental in elevating academic standards, especially in promoting graduate-level research and publication culture. His participation in food and feed safety policymaking has enhanced Laos’ compliance with international food standards, directly contributing to public health and regional trade development.

Through his multilingual proficiency—fluent in Lao and English, and conversant in Korean—he effectively bridges cultural and academic gaps, strengthening cross-border collaborations. His efforts support Laos’ integration into global academic and agricultural research networks, ensuring knowledge transfer and policy innovation.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Keohavong is positioned to make lasting contributions to agricultural policy innovation, sustainable livestock production, and regional academic development. With evolving educational regulations allowing greater international engagement, he is poised to build robust partnerships with global institutions. His legacy will include mentoring emerging researchers, shaping national research agendas, and contributing to resilient, knowledge-based agricultural systems in Southeast Asia.

His ongoing work reflects a visionary blend of research, education, and policy engagement. By consistently applying science for societal benefit, he embodies the role of a transformative academic leader committed to sustainable development and educational excellence.

Notable Publications

Impact of Genetically Modified Food Knowledge, Environmental, and Food Safety Concerns on Purchase Intention of Genetically Modified Food in Mediating Role of Perceived Risk: An Empirical Study in Thailand

Author: Bounmy Keohavong
Journal: World Food Policy
Year: 2020

A Study on Biomass Production of Yeast Isolated from Starter Culture (Sa Lao)

Author: Bounmy Keohavong
Journal: Souphanouvong Journal: Multi-disciplinary Research of Souphanouvong University
Year: 2018

Effects of Drinking Diluted Deep Sea Water on Growth Performance and Immune Response in Broiler Chickens

Author: Bounmy Keohavong
Journal: PSAKU International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research
Year: 2018

Pellet Processing Improved True Metabolizable Energy of Jatropha Meal in Adult Rooster

Author: Bounmy Keohavong
Journal: International Journal of Trend in Research and Development
Year: 2016

Comparison of Aviary, Barn and Conventional Cage Raising of Chickens on Laying Performance and Egg Quality

Author: Bounmy Keohavong
Journal: Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences
Year: 2014

Dr. Gina Ioan | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Gina Ioan | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Dunarea de Jos University, Romania

Author Profile

ORCID

Early Academic Pursuits: Foundations in Macroeconomic Thought

From the onset of her academic journey, Dr. Gina Ioan displayed a deep intellectual curiosity in the field of economics. Her early education laid the groundwork for a focused inquiry into the structural and policy-driven aspects of national and international economic systems. As a committed student with a proclivity for analytical thinking, she pursued advanced studies culminating in a Ph.D. in Economics, with a specialization in Macroeconomics. During her doctoral years, she immersed herself in complex economic modeling, fiscal policy frameworks, and global development trends, with particular attention to the dynamics of macroeconomic stability.

Her academic rigor was not limited to theoretical knowledge. She was also involved in empirical research that investigated the socioeconomic conditions of Eastern Europe in the post-transition period. This formative stage of her academic development gave rise to her long-term commitment to understanding how macro-level decisions affect individual lives, regional growth, and long-term sustainability. Her scholarly discipline and determination became apparent during this period, earning her the respect of peers and faculty alike.

Professional Endeavors: A Lecturer Shaping Future Economists

As a Lecturer at the “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Dr. Ioan embraced academia not only as a researcher but also as a passionate educator. Her role within the university involves teaching foundational and advanced macroeconomics courses, where she is known for her clear explanations and thought-provoking discussions. She has mentored undergraduate and postgraduate students alike, guiding many of them in research projects that reflect real-world economic challenges.

In addition to classroom instruction, she actively participates in faculty initiatives, curriculum development, and interdisciplinary academic collaborations. Her dynamic involvement in academia extends to supervising dissertations and fostering critical thinking among students. Her ability to bridge theory and practice has made her a sought-after academic voice within the faculty of economics, and her students consistently acknowledge her mentorship as a defining part of their academic growth.

Contributions and Research Focus: Sustainability, Gender, and Growth

Dr. Gina Ioan’s research output is marked by depth, diversity, and relevance. Her work spans a spectrum of pressing issues in contemporary economics, including macroeconomic policy tools, sustainable development, circular economy models, and the nuanced intersections of inequality and gender economics. Through these thematic pillars, she has contributed to a richer understanding of how economies evolve under stress, adapt to ecological challenges, and reform to achieve inclusive growth.

One of her significant contributions lies in the exploration of macroeconomic stability in post-transition economies, where she evaluates the effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policy mechanisms. Her scholarship has highlighted the importance of policy coherence in promoting both economic resilience and social equity.

Another major strand of her research is dedicated to the circular economy—an increasingly vital paradigm in addressing climate change and sustainability. Through empirical studies and policy analyses, she advocates for integrating circular economy principles into national and regional economic strategies. Additionally, her investigations into gender economics provide a much-needed lens on how macroeconomic policies disproportionately affect women, and how gender inclusion can enhance economic performance at large.

Accolades and Recognition: A Respected Voice in Economic Circles

Dr. Ioan’s academic contributions have not gone unnoticed. Her published research appears in respected journals, and her work is cited across multiple domains, indicating her scholarly influence beyond macroeconomics into social policy and environmental economics. Her participation in national and international conferences has earned her recognition as a forward-thinking economist capable of offering nuanced perspectives on both traditional and emerging economic issues.

She has also been invited to contribute to policy discussions, academic panels, and collaborative research projects, often serving as a bridge between academic theory and policy implementation. Her active profile on platforms like ORCID and Google Scholar reflects the growing reach of her work, both in Romania and internationally.

Impact and Influence: Bridging Policy, People, and Planet

Perhaps one of Dr. Ioan’s most enduring impacts is her ability to contextualize macroeconomic trends within societal and ecological frameworks. She emphasizes that economic growth cannot be considered in isolation from social well-being or environmental limits. This systems-oriented thinking is reflected in her work on sustainable development indicators, the adoption of circular economic principles, and the intersectional analysis of inequality.

Her influence also manifests in her pedagogical approach, where she instills in students a sense of responsibility to view economics not merely as numbers and charts, but as a tool for societal transformation. Through her lectures, publications, and public engagement, she champions a vision of economics that is inclusive, adaptive, and future-focused.

Legacy and Future Contributions: Toward a More Equitable Economy

Looking ahead, Dr. Gina Ioan is poised to continue shaping the discourse on sustainable economic development. Her ongoing research aims to refine the policy mechanisms that support green transitions, reduce inequality, and foster economic resilience in the face of global uncertainties such as climate change, geopolitical shifts, and technological disruption.

She is also likely to take on expanded roles in policy advising, institutional reform, and international research partnerships, given her proven expertise and collaborative spirit. With her sharp intellect, ethical commitment, and visionary approach, Dr. Ioan’s legacy will be one of rigorous scholarship in service of both people and the planet.

Her work serves as a guiding light for future economists who are not only skilled in analysis but also committed to using that skill for meaningful impact.

Notable Publications

The Green Dilemma: Energy Efficiency, Renewables and Economic Challenges in Eastern Europe

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Energy Policy
Year: 2025

The Effects of Foreign Direct Investments on Wage Trends in the Dutch Labor Market

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Economies
Year: 2025

 The Effects of Foreign Direct Investments on Wage Trends in the Dutch Labor Market

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Preprints
Year: 2024

 Gender-Specific Implications of Foreign Direct Investments on Wage Dynamics in Croatia: A Comprehensive Management Perspective

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Administrative Sciences
Year: 2024

 Assessing Economic Development and Quality of Life: A Management Perspective on Romania and the Republic of Moldova

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Sustainability
Year: 2024

Prof Dr. Jiang Yingjie | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Jiang Yingjie | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

School of Psychology, Northeast Normal University, China

Author Profile

ORCID

Early Academic Pursuits

From the very outset of her academic journey, Dr. Jiang Y. has demonstrated a deep commitment to understanding the cognitive development of children, particularly in the domains of memory and metamemory. With a foundation in cognitive psychology and developmental science, she began her scholarly exploration by focusing on how young children—especially those in the formative years between ages 4 to 6—develop their episodic memory and the ability to monitor it. Her early investigations led to substantial findings, such as those detailed in her comprehensive monograph, Development of Children’s Episodic Memory and Its Monitoring Abilities (2018), which not only synthesized her initial research but also laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to unearthing the complexities of cognitive growth in children.

Even before this, her earlier work such as the 2011–2019 project on the Development of Children’s Metamemory and Its Influencing Factors, supported by the Philosophy and Social Sciences Planning Project of Jilin Province, showcased her early commitment to rigorous, longitudinal research. These formative academic experiences laid a strong intellectual foundation that would drive her forward into larger, national-level projects.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Jiang’s career has steadily progressed into high-impact roles through her involvement in numerous major research initiatives funded by prestigious national agencies in China. Her research trajectory is marked by a consistent and methodical exploration of metamemory—an individual’s awareness and understanding of their own memory capabilities.

Among her most significant undertakings is the Mapping Brain-Cognitive Development and Comprehensive Assessment, Subtyping, and Early Warning of Developmental Trajectories project, funded under the landmark Science and Technology Innovation 2030 – Major Project. Running from 2021 to 2026, this work represents a pinnacle of interdisciplinary collaboration, merging neuroscience, psychology, and big data analytics to understand early brain-cognitive developmental pathways.

Her professional efforts extend beyond basic research into applied domains, including the Empathy Development Characteristics in Left-Behind Children in China (2019–2024), a socially-driven project supported by the National Social Science Fund of China. This initiative reflects a compassionate and ethical dimension to her professional journey—engaging with underrepresented populations and highlighting the psychological consequences of socio-familial separation.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Jiang’s work centers on several interlocking themes within cognitive psychology: metamemory, episodic memory, reward processing, and developmental mechanisms of empathy. Her research is distinguished by its methodological diversity—incorporating behavioral studies, eye-tracking, electrophysiological measurements (EEG/ERP), and longitudinal child studies.

In the project The Cognitive and Neural Mechanisms of Metamemory Monitoring Accuracy (2023–2026), she investigates the role of hierarchical cues in monitoring accuracy, contributing to foundational knowledge in metacognitive science. Similarly, in the study on Reward Prediction Error and Memory (2023–2025), funded by the Natural Science Foundation of Jilin Province, she explores how unexpected outcomes (reward prediction errors) shape both memory formation and metacognitive assessments—an area bridging cognitive psychology with computational neuroscience.

Her pioneering concept of Value-Directed Metamemory, elaborated in her 2016 monograph, reflects her theoretical innovation in understanding how value assignment influences memory encoding, retrieval, and control.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Jiang’s research excellence has not gone unnoticed. Her projects have received sustained support from China’s most competitive funding bodies, such as the National Natural Science Foundation, the National Social Science Fund, and various regional science planning agencies. The fact that she has led multiple large-scale, long-term research initiatives—often overlapping—testifies to her exceptional capability in research leadership, coordination, and mentorship.

Her publications, particularly the two monographs published by Science Press, further signify national recognition and scholarly authority in her field. These texts are not only academic contributions but also educational resources that inform both future research and psychological practice.

Impact and Influence

The real-world impact of Dr. Jiang’s work is multifaceted. Her exploration of empathy development in left-behind children has implications for national education policy and psychological interventions in rural China. Meanwhile, her cognitive research feeds into improved educational tools, early warning systems for cognitive disorders, and evidence-based practices in child development assessment.

Her commitment to translational science ensures that complex neural and cognitive theories are applicable to public health, child welfare, and educational psychology. She has influenced the next generation of researchers, not just through her leadership in multidisciplinary teams but also through her widely cited and pedagogically significant monographs.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Jiang’s contributions are poised to influence both scientific and social domains even more profoundly. Her involvement in the Science and Technology Innovation 2030 initiative suggests a forward-looking agenda aligned with national strategies for brain and mental health. Her capacity to integrate behavioral, neurological, and societal perspectives promises new insights into early detection and intervention for developmental issues.

Her legacy will be one of rigorous scientific inquiry balanced with deep social awareness—paving the way for inclusive, science-backed education and mental health strategies. As she continues to bridge basic research with applied societal needs, Dr. Jiang exemplifies what it means to be a scholar whose work truly matters—both in the lab and in the lives of children across the nation. 🧠📚👶

Notable Publications

Metacognitive Unawareness of Feedback Influences Future Memory Prediction but Not Postdiction

Authors: Khin Theint Theint Soe, Yingjie Jiang, Jiaying Wang, Yang Yu, Yanlin Guo
Journal: Current Psychology
Year: 2024

Metacognitive Illusions: A Positivity Effect in Judgments of Learning for Older but Not Younger Adults

Authors: Xiaojun Sun, Yingjie Jiang
Journal: Journal of Intelligence
Year: 2023

 Differential Modulation of Creative Problem Solving by Monetary Rewards: Electrophysiological Evidence

Authors: Can Cui, Kaiyu Wang, Yiting Long, Yingjie Jiang
Journal: Current Psychology
Year: 2023

The Dissociating of Reward Feedback on Familiarity and Recollection Processing: Evidence from Event-Related Potential

Authors: Liu F., Jiang Y., Li S.
Journal: NeuroReport
Year: 2022

Reward Uncertainty and Expected Value Enhance Generalization of Episodic Memory

Authors: Yang Yue, Yingjie Jiang, Fan Zhou, Yuantao Jiang, Yiting Long, Kaiyu Wang
Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Year: 2022

Dr. Bridget Irene | Entrepreneurship | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Bridget Irene | Entrepreneurship | Women Researcher Award

De Montfort University, United Kingdom

Author Profile

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Bridget Irene’s academic journey reflects a deep and evolving commitment to understanding complex socio-economic and cultural dynamics within the field of entrepreneurship. Her higher education began at the University of Port Harcourt in Nigeria, where she completed a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Foreign Languages and Literature from 1991 to 1996. This foundational degree laid the groundwork for her critical thinking and global perspective, elements that would later deeply influence her academic and professional work.

Her pursuit of knowledge took an international dimension when she enrolled at the University of Plymouth in the United Kingdom, where she earned an MBA in Strategic Management between 2011 and 2012. This phase signaled a significant pivot from humanities to business, allowing her to develop strategic insight into organizational operations and leadership. Driven by a passion to contribute scholarly value and social relevance to entrepreneurship discourse, she embarked on a PhD in Entrepreneurship and Business Management at Cardiff Metropolitan University from 2013 to 2016. Her doctoral studies became the cornerstone of her academic identity, focusing on gender, entrepreneurship education, and socio-cultural influences on entrepreneurial behavior.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Irene’s professional trajectory showcases her as both an academic leader and a passionate educator. Currently serving as a Senior Lecturer in Business Management at De Montfort University since October 2023, she plays a pivotal role in guiding students, fostering critical thought, and shaping curriculum innovation. Her earlier academic engagement at Coventry University highlights her as a dynamic lecturer and academic leader. She not only delivered lectures tailored to varied learning needs but also took responsibility for course design, student mentorship, pastoral care, and module planning.

Her leadership extended beyond the classroom. She led a team of 25 academics, ensuring the integrity and quality of undergraduate teaching. She coordinated with timetable departments, engaged with external examiners, and contributed to overall departmental planning and academic administration. Her experience in higher education reflects a rare combination of pedagogical excellence and institutional leadership, grounded in empathy and strategic foresight.

Contributions and Research Focus

At the heart of Dr. Bridget Irene’s academic identity is her research in entrepreneurship education with a specific focus on gendered experiences, particularly among women entrepreneurs. Her PhD research critically examined the interplay between entrepreneurial competencies and gendered cultural expectations, challenging traditional narratives. Her feminist lens brings a transformative perspective to entrepreneurial discourse, highlighting how educational and policy frameworks may inadvertently perpetuate gender disparities.

Her scholarly interests are impressively interdisciplinary, weaving together threads from entrepreneurship, gender studies, informal economies, and family business dynamics. Her work delves into the culturally instantiated frameworks that shape entrepreneurial engagement and success, particularly for women navigating socio-economic constraints. She also explores themes like work-life balance, strategic decision-making, and competency-based business performance, making her research deeply relevant in both academic and policy circles.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Irene’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she was appointed Vice President of Partnership at Social Entrepreneurs International (SE International), a role that highlights her international leadership in fostering social entrepreneurship. That same year, she became the Country Representative for the Global Women’s Entrepreneurship Policy (Global WEP) network, further reinforcing her reputation as a thought leader in global women’s entrepreneurship.

From 2017 to 2022, she served as Head of Education & Training at The Centre for Community and Social Development in Southern Africa, showcasing her long-standing commitment to educational empowerment and community transformation. These roles speak volumes about her strategic insight, advocacy for inclusive policies, and influence on global entrepreneurship education.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Bridget Irene’s work transcends academic boundaries. Through her consultancy, teaching, and scholarly work, she has directly influenced policy discussions, academic discourse, and community-based entrepreneurship initiatives. Her leadership within academic institutions has shaped learning environments that are inclusive, critical, and globally oriented. Moreover, her contributions to gendered entrepreneurship research have offered a deeper understanding of the structural challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, enabling educators and policymakers to rethink how entrepreneurship is taught and supported.

Her influence is also reflected in her ability to mentor emerging scholars and entrepreneurs, particularly women, and her active engagement in international knowledge networks positions her as a connector between academia, industry, and community.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As an academic deeply rooted in social transformation, gender justice, and entrepreneurial education, Dr. Bridget Irene is poised to make even greater contributions in the future. Her legacy lies not only in her published research or institutional leadership but in her commitment to challenging systemic inequities within entrepreneurship. She is likely to continue driving inclusive educational practices, developing entrepreneurship frameworks that are culturally nuanced and empowering, and influencing global entrepreneurship policy with feminist insights.

Looking ahead, one can expect her to expand her research collaborations, contribute to global education reform, and mentor the next generation of scholars and leaders. Through her passion, intellect, and unwavering dedication, Dr. Bridget Irene continues to illuminate paths of opportunity for women and marginalized groups in entrepreneurship, leaving an indelible mark on the academic and development landscape.

Notable Publications

 Tourism Service and Digital Technologies: A Value Creation Perspective

Authors: A.P. Opute, B.N. Irene, G.C. Iwu
Journal: Journal of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure
Year: 2020

Women Entrepreneurship in South Africa: Understanding the Role of Competencies in Business Success

Author: B. Irene
Journal: The Southern African Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
Year: 2017

 Technopreneurship: A Discursive Analysis of the Impact of Technology on the Success of Women Entrepreneurs in South Africa

Author: B.N.O. Irene
Book Chapter In: Digital Entrepreneurship in Sub-Saharan Africa
Year: 2019

 The Effect of Top Managers’ Years of Experience on Innovation

Authors: J. Okrah, B. Irene
Journal: International Journal of Innovation Studies
Year: 2023

 Gender and Entrepreneurial Success: A Cross-Cultural Study of Competencies of Female SMEs Operators in South Africa

Author: B. Irene
Journal: [Not Specified]
Year: 2016