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

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

Alfaisal University, Saudi Arabia

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Burhanettin Ozdemir’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in secondary mathematics education, which led him to further specialize in the field of Measurement and Evaluation in Education at Hacettepe University in Ankara. His passion for statistics and psychometrics flourished during his Ph.D. studies, culminating in a dissertation titled “Examining the Effect of Item Level Dimensionality Models on Multidimensional Computerized Adaptive Testing”. This pioneering research laid the groundwork for his future work in adaptive testing systems, particularly in the development of multidimensional computerized adaptive testing (MCAT) systems aimed at evaluating student language abilities.

Dr. Ozdemir’s academic pursuits were further enriched by international exposure. A scholarship from the Higher Council of Education enabled him to undertake a visiting scholar position at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign under the mentorship of Dr. Hua Hua Chang. This experience broadened his understanding of advanced statistical methods, particularly structural equation modeling (SEM), multilevel modeling, and multivariate statistics, key areas that would define his research trajectory. Additionally, his coursework in mathematics at National Chung Hsing University in Taiwan provided him with the rigorous analytical tools to approach complex educational measurement challenges.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Dr. Ozdemir’s professional career is a testament to his dedication to both academia and the practical application of his expertise. His journey began as a Research Assistant at Hacettepe University, where he honed his research skills in educational measurement. He later became an Assistant Professor at Siirt University, where he also served as the Chairperson of the Department of Educational Measurement and Evaluation. This role allowed him to lead curriculum development while making significant contributions to the field of educational assessment.

His professional endeavors continued at the National Center for Assessment in Higher Education (NCA, Qiyas) in Saudi Arabia, where he worked as a Psychometrician from 2017 to 2019. In this capacity, Dr. Ozdemir was responsible for analyzing and improving assessment systems, a critical function for national exams in Saudi Arabia. His expertise in psychometrics and adaptive testing models ensured that the assessment processes were both efficient and scientifically sound.

In 2019, Dr. Ozdemir joined Prince Sultan University as a faculty member and Director of the Center for Statistics and Information (CSI), where he expanded his influence in the field of data science. As Director, he developed advanced dashboards and automated systems to streamline data dissemination, KPI calculations, and data analysis, significantly improving the university’s ability to make data-driven decisions. In 2024, he took on a new role as Assistant Professor in the Department of Operations and Project Management at Alfaisal University, continuing to push the boundaries of his academic and professional contributions.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Ozdemir’s research interests lie at the intersection of educational measurement, psychometrics, and the application of advanced statistical methods. His work focuses heavily on multidimensional computerized adaptive testing (MCAT), item response theory (IRT), test equating, and differential item functioning (DIF). He has made significant strides in the development of adaptive testing systems that can more accurately assess the abilities of students, particularly in the context of language testing.

Additionally, his research integrates the use of artificial intelligence-driven natural language processing (NLP) models, further enhancing the accuracy and adaptability of testing systems. Dr. Ozdemir’s expertise in multilevel modeling, SEM, and multivariate statistics also allows him to tackle complex educational data and contribute to the refinement of testing models. His findings have the potential to reshape how educational assessments are conducted worldwide, making them more personalized, accurate, and fair.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Ozdemir’s contributions to the field of educational measurement and psychometrics have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including recognition for his groundbreaking research in multidimensional computerized adaptive testing. His work in this area is considered highly influential in the field of educational testing, and his publications are widely cited by peers.

In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Ozdemir’s appointment as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Illinois stands as a significant milestone in his career, allowing him to engage with leading researchers and scholars from around the world. His technical skills and contributions have earned him a reputation as an expert in educational measurement and data analysis, and his ability to integrate AI with educational testing continues to garner attention in both academic and professional circles.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Dr. Ozdemir’s work has had a profound impact on both his students and the broader academic community. As an educator, he has taught a wide range of courses, including those in probability theory, statistical analysis, and educational measurement. His role as a mentor and researcher has inspired numerous students and colleagues alike, many of whom have gone on to pursue successful careers in academia and industry.

Moreover, his role as Director of the Center for Statistics and Information at Prince Sultan University has allowed him to influence institutional data practices, improving data accessibility and analysis through innovative dashboards and automated systems. These contributions have had a lasting effect on the university’s ability to leverage data for decision-making and performance evaluation.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Looking forward, Dr. Ozdemir’s legacy is built on his commitment to advancing educational measurement and statistical analysis. His future contributions are expected to expand further into the integration of AI and machine learning techniques with adaptive testing systems, as well as continuing his exploration of how these systems can be used to enhance educational fairness and efficiency globally. Through his ongoing research, Dr. Ozdemir is poised to shape the future of educational assessment, ensuring that it evolves to meet the needs of students and educational institutions in a rapidly changing world.

As he continues to inspire future generations of statisticians, psychometricians, and educators, Dr. Ozdemir’s impact will undoubtedly extend far beyond the classroom and research lab, contributing to more equitable and innovative educational systems worldwide.

📝Notable Publications

Prevalence of Nomophobia among university students: A comparative study of Pakistani and Turkish undergraduate students

Authors: B Özdemir, Ö Çakır, I Hussain

Journal: Eurasia Journal of Mathematics Science and Technology Education

Year: 2018

A comparison of IRT-based methods for examining differential item functioning in TIMSS 2011 mathematics subtest

Author: B Özdemir

Journal: Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences

Year: 2015

Getting closer being apart: Living in the age of information and communication technologies

Authors: I Hussain, O Çakır, B Özdemir, SA Tahirkheli

Journal: New Horizons

Year: 2017

Studying internet addiction profile of university students with latent class analysis

Authors: I Hussain, O Çakır, B Özdemir

Journal: Education and Information Technologies

Year: 2020

PISA 2009 sonuçlarına göre öğrenci başarısını etkileyen faktörlerin kanonik ortak etki analizi ile incelenmesi

Authors: B Özdemir, S Gelbal

Journal: Eğitim ve Bilim

Year: 2014

Mr. Gang Lu | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Gang Lu | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Hebei GEO University, China

Profile 

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Professor Gang Lu’s academic journey is a testament to his dedication to both scientific and managerial disciplines. He began his educational path at Huaqiao University in Quanzhou, China, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Applied Chemistry in 1993. This early foundation in chemistry laid the groundwork for his scientific approach to problem-solving. He then pursued a Master’s in Management, specializing in Business Administration, from Nanjing University of Science and Technology in 2002. This blend of scientific knowledge and management expertise equipped him with the unique ability to approach complex issues through both technical and strategic lenses, positioning him as a thought leader in integrating digital technologies with business and industry.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Throughout his career, Professor Gang Lu has held numerous prestigious positions that have allowed him to lead and influence significant projects in the fields of digital transformation, sustainable development, and technology consulting. He currently serves as a Professor and Master’s Supervisor at Hebei GEO University, where he plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of leaders in his field. His academic endeavors are complemented by his influential roles as an Executive Member of the Hebei Regional Science Association, and Chief Expert in several prestigious think tanks, including the Hebei Association for Science and Technology Think Tank Base and the China Association for Science and Technology Decision-Making Consulting Expert Team. These positions have enabled him to leverage his expertise in policy-making, strategy development, and technological advancements, making a profound impact on regional and national development.

Professor Lu’s professional focus extends to researching the integration of digital economy into key industries such as agriculture and manufacturing, where his work is revolutionizing productivity and sustainability. His role in the China Association for Science and Technology underscores his active contribution to national development strategies.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Professor Gang Lu’s research is centered on the application of digital transformation to drive productivity and sustainability across multiple sectors. His work seeks to explore how digital economies can enhance efficiency and environmental sustainability, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.

Key projects in Professor Lu’s research portfolio include:

  1. Empowering Agricultural New Productivity with Digital Economy (Dec. 2024–Present): This project explores how digital technologies can boost agricultural productivity, particularly in rural areas. By focusing on the creation of new business models, Professor Lu is working to promote comprehensive rural revitalization. He has developed a theoretical framework that leverages the value network model, which is a critical tool for understanding how digital innovations can reshape agricultural practices. This project also aims to enhance the penetration of digital tools in agriculture, driving data-driven decisions that optimize resource use and improve productivity.
  2. Digital Transformation’s Impact on Carbon Emissions in Manufacturing (Jun. 2022–Jun. 2023): In this project, Professor Lu analyzed the role of digital transformation in reducing carbon emissions in manufacturing. By using text analysis methods to extract digital transformation indicators from companies in Hebei Province, he constructed econometric models to study how digital technologies like smart factories and resource optimization reduce emissions. His work is shaping policies for a low-carbon manufacturing system, which is a vital step toward green development and sustainability.
  3. Digital Economy Development in Hebei (Sep. 2022–Jul. 2023): This research focused on assessing the internal coordination and spatial development of the digital economy in Hebei Province. By developing a comprehensive evaluation index system, Professor Lu studied how the development of the digital economy impacts regional economies. His research provides insights into improving coordination and balance within different aspects of the digital economy to foster sustainable economic growth.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Professor Gang Lu’s contributions have not gone unnoticed in the academic and professional communities. He was awarded the title of Outstanding Science and Technology Worker by Hebei Province, reflecting his significant impact on the advancement of technology and sustainable development. His work has gained widespread recognition, not only within academic circles but also among industry leaders and policymakers. His leadership in the China Association for Science and Technology Decision-Making Consulting Expert Team further underscores his influence in shaping China’s technological and industrial strategies.

In addition to his academic honors, Professor Lu’s innovative research has been instrumental in promoting smart manufacturing and agricultural innovation, two critical areas in China’s efforts to modernize its economy.

Impact and Influence 🌱

Professor Gang Lu’s work in the digital transformation of agriculture and manufacturing is having far-reaching implications on both industry and policy. His research has provided actionable strategies for digital adoption and sustainability that are helping industries in Hebei and beyond increase productivity while reducing environmental footprints.

Through his involvement in numerous decision-making teams, Professor Lu has had a direct influence on policy at the regional and national levels. His research provides essential data and recommendations for creating green, low-carbon industries, ensuring that China’s path to industrial development remains sustainable. His ability to link theory with practical application has made his research indispensable for governmental strategies on digital economy development.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Professor Gang Lu’s legacy will be defined by his role as a pioneer in bridging digital economy and sustainable development. His contributions have been foundational in helping industries adapt to technological advancements while maintaining a strong focus on environmental sustainability.

Looking toward the future, Professor Lu’s research will continue to focus on refining the models he has developed to drive sustainable development across various sectors. His future contributions will likely center on expanding the reach of digital transformation strategies and improving policy frameworks that foster green, low-carbon growth. As digital economies continue to evolve, his work will remain critical in ensuring that economic development is balanced with environmental preservation.

In conclusion, Professor Gang Lu’s career has left an indelible mark on the fields of digital transformation and sustainable development. His research has not only influenced academia but has also shaped policies that guide industries towards a more sustainable future. Through his leadership, expertise, and commitment to integrating digital technology with green initiatives, he continues to pave the way for a smarter, more sustainable world.

📝Notable Publications

How digital economy and technological innovation can achieve a virtuous cycle with the ecological environment.

Journal: Environment, Development and Sustainability
Year: 2024

Grain Price Fluctuation: A Network Evolution Approach Based on a Distributed Lag Model.

Journal: Computational Economics
Year: 2024

Title: Strategies for improving food security under the impact of external grain price fluctuations: evidence from China.

Journal: Applied Economics
Year: 2024

Title: Research on Evolution Characteristics and Response Strategies of Global Trade Network of Scrap Copper Resources.

Journal: Complex Systems and Complexity Science

Year: 2022

Title: Evaluation of E-commerce website based on Fruit Fly Algorithm Optimization RBF algorithm.

Journal: Computer Modelling and New Technologies
Year: 2014

Dr. Konstantinos A. Dimitriadis | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Konstantinos A. Dimitriadis | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Young Scientist Award

Cyprus University of Technology, Cyprus

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Konstantinos A. Dimitriadis laid a strong foundation in his academic career with an emphasis on mathematics and finance. He embarked on his academic path at the University of Cyprus, where he received a Degree in Applied Mathematics in 2017, specializing in Mathematics and Statistics. This rigorous training provided him with a deep understanding of quantitative and analytical methods, equipping him with the essential skills needed to thrive in the finance and economics sectors. His passion for numbers, data analysis, and mathematical theories propelled him forward, creating a platform for more advanced studies.

In 2019, Dr. Dimitriadis furthered his expertise by earning a Master’s degree in Shipping and Finance from the Cyprus University of Technology. The choice of this field reflects a blend of traditional finance and the dynamics of maritime economics, a crucial area given Cyprus’s strategic location and influence in the shipping industry. His outstanding academic achievements did not go unnoticed, as he received an Excellence Award from the Finance, Accounting, and Management Science Department of the Cyprus University of Technology. This recognition highlighted not only his academic prowess but also his ethical approach to learning and research, setting him apart as a distinguished scholar among his peers.

Professional Endeavors and Teaching Experience 📚

Dr. Dimitriadis’s career trajectory is marked by significant roles in academia, where he continues to contribute as both a lecturer and a research leader. Since May 2019, he has been serving as a Teaching Assistant at the Cyprus University of Technology. His responsibilities in this role include supporting professors in lecture preparation, grading exams and papers, and leading review and feedback sessions for students. His dedication to education is evident, as he engages with students consistently for eight hours a week, nurturing their understanding of complex financial and economic concepts.

In September 2022, Dr. Dimitriadis advanced to a position as a Lecturer (Special Scientist) at the Cyprus University of Technology. His teaching portfolio spans a diverse set of subjects at the undergraduate level, reflecting his comprehensive knowledge of finance and economics. Courses he teaches include “Statistical Analysis and Research Methods,” “Accounting and Budget Management,” “Managerial Economics,” and “Accounting Fundamentals.” His versatility extends beyond traditional lecturing, as he also conducts tutorials in “Economics 1,” “Finance 1,” and “Statistical Methods 1” across multiple departments, such as Hospitality and Tourism Management, as well as Finance, Accounting, and Management Science. This breadth of teaching experience underscores his adaptability and commitment to shaping the next generation of finance and economics professionals.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔍

Dr. Dimitriadis’s research is driven by an ambition to understand and address pressing issues in global finance and economics. His scholarly interests are centered on investigating financial market phenomena, banking dynamics, the repercussions of financial crises, and the emerging world of cryptocurrencies. He is particularly focused on developing and refining optimal portfolio synthesis models, striving to identify strategies that balance risk and return for investors. His work also explores environmental finance, reflecting a growing awareness of how sustainability intersects with traditional financial mechanisms.

Dr. Dimitriadis’s research has led to publications in respected academic journals such as the International Review of Financial Analysis and Applied Economics. These publications contribute to a broader understanding of financial behaviors and provide insights that can influence policy and investment strategies. Furthermore, he has served as a reviewer for prestigious journals like the Journal of Banking and Finance, the International Review of Financial Analysis, and the Journal of Financial Innovation. His role as a reviewer underscores his expertise and the trust placed in him by the academic community to ensure high standards of research quality.

Additionally, Dr. Dimitriadis collaborates on impactful research projects, co-authoring articles in high-quality international finance and economics journals. His collaborative work fosters a spirit of academic innovation, drawing on diverse perspectives to tackle complex financial challenges.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout his academic and professional career, Dr. Dimitriadis has received accolades that highlight his exceptional contributions to the field. The Excellence Award bestowed by the Cyprus University of Technology stands as a testament to his dedication, ethical values, and academic achievements during his postgraduate studies. This recognition not only honors his past work but also sets a high standard for his future endeavors, motivating him to continue excelling in his field.

His role as a reviewer for top-tier journals further reinforces his standing in the academic community. It is a recognition of his meticulous approach to research, his deep understanding of finance and economics, and his commitment to upholding the integrity of academic publishing. The impact of his reviews resonates beyond individual articles, contributing to the broader discourse and advancement of knowledge in finance and economics.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Dimitriadis’s impact extends beyond the classroom and research publications. As the Head of the Research Center at Mesoyios College, he plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of inquiry and innovation. He guides research initiatives, mentors budding researchers, and ensures that the college remains at the forefront of financial and economic research. His leadership has a ripple effect, inspiring colleagues and students alike to pursue high-impact research that can shape financial practices and policies.

His work on financial crises and their consequences has practical implications, offering insights into how economies can build resilience against future shocks. By examining the intricacies of banking and financial markets, his research helps demystify complex financial systems, making them more accessible and understandable to stakeholders ranging from policymakers to everyday investors.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Looking ahead, Dr. Konstantinos A. Dimitriadis is poised to continue making meaningful contributions to the fields of finance and economics. His ongoing research into the world of cryptocurrencies is especially relevant as digital assets become an integral part of the global financial landscape. He is committed to exploring the balance between innovation and risk, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of how these technologies impact traditional financial systems.

His future endeavors will likely build on his existing work, delving deeper into environmental finance and optimal portfolio strategies. As he continues to teach and mentor, he will shape the minds of future economists and financial analysts, ensuring that his influence endures for years to come. Through his dedication to research, teaching, and academic leadership, Dr. Dimitriadis leaves an indelible mark on the world of finance, setting a standard of excellence that will inspire generations.

📝Notable Publications

The Influential Impacts of International Dynamic Spillovers in Forming Investor Preferences: A Quantile-VAR and GDCC-GARCH Perspective

Authors: KA Dimitriadis, D Koursaros, CS Savva

Journal: Applied Economics

Year: 2024

Evaluating the Sophisticated Digital Assets and Cryptocurrencies Capacities of Substituting International Currencies in Inflationary Eras

Authors: KA Dimitriadis, D Koursaros, CS Savva

Journal: International Review of Financial Analysis

Year: 2024