Mr. Ismail Muhammed | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Ismail Muhammed | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Brunei Darrussalam

Author Profile

ORCID

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

From the outset of his academic journey, Ismail Aremu Muhammed demonstrated exceptional intellectual curiosity and a strong commitment to understanding the dynamics of economic systems. He began his tertiary education at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, where he earned a B.Sc. in Economics. During this formative phase, he undertook a significant thesis titled “Impact of Government Expenditure on Economic Growth in Nigeria,” supervised by Dr. Ahmed T. Yakubu. This project not only provided him with a strong foundation in fiscal policy analysis but also sparked a deeper interest in macroeconomic dynamics and policy evaluation.

Determined to advance his academic capabilities, Ismail proceeded to the University of Lagos for a Master’s degree in Economics. There, he explored the intersection between institutional quality and fiscal performance, focusing on oil-exporting nations. His thesis, guided by Dr. David M. Oke, examined how institutional frameworks influence the cyclical nature of fiscal policies, setting the stage for his later interest in informal economies and development challenges in resource-rich environments.

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics at Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Ismail is working on a groundbreaking thesis that aims to estimate the global informal economy and understand its spillover effects on formal economies using a novel Bayesian Global VAR model. Under the mentorship of Dr. Gamini Premaratne and support from Professors Ahmed Masood Khalid and Norulazidah H. Omar Ali, he is developing a unique and timely framework with both theoretical and empirical relevance to global policymakers.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Ismail’s professional journey reflects a seamless blend of academic rigor and practical impact. He served as a Research Assistant at the University of Ilorin (2016–2017), where he supported quantitative research on development and macroeconomic themes. This role honed his skills in data handling, statistical modeling, and manuscript development, laying the groundwork for future research output.

His next professional chapter took shape at Analytiques Consult in Nigeria where he worked as a Research Officer between 2019 and 2022. At Analytiques, Ismail led critical research projects related to socio-economic trends in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa. His work involved policy analysis, impact evaluations, and advanced econometric modeling — directly contributing to policy recommendations for NGOs and development partners. His ability to translate complex data into actionable insights set him apart in a competitive policy environment.

In 2024, Ismail expanded his expertise into academia by taking on the role of Teaching Assistant at Universiti Brunei Darussalam. Here, he assists in teaching Principles of Economics to undergraduate students, designs assessments, and supports curriculum planning. His approach to teaching reflects his commitment to inclusive and transformative learning experiences, empowering students with analytical thinking and quantitative tools.

🔍 Contributions and Research Focus

Ismail’s research cuts across labor economics, development policy, and the informal economy, with a keen focus on economic transformation in emerging markets. His doctoral work is pioneering in its global scope — estimating informal sector sizes, analyzing formal-informal linkages across countries, and applying robust statistical frameworks to capture dynamic interdependencies.

He has also shown scholarly depth in energy economics, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and the integration of green technologies in economic policy. His research employs tools like Bayesian econometrics, impact evaluation, and causal inference using both survey and administrative data — illustrating his strong command of applied micro and macroeconomic techniques.

Furthermore, Ismail brings robust methodological expertise in Stata, R, SPSS, and EViews, making him a proficient data analyst and modeler — a vital skill set in today’s data-driven policy environment.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Though his formal accolades were not explicitly listed, Ismail’s academic trajectory and professional roles speak volumes about the recognition and trust he has earned within scholarly and consulting communities. Securing positions at institutions like Universiti Brunei Darussalam and Analytiques Consult reflects the high regard in which his research acumen, analytical precision, and work ethic are held.

Moreover, his ability to work closely with high-level supervisors and contribute to international academic discussions shows the esteem in which his contributions are valued. His IELTS score of 7.5 is further testimony to his strong command of English — a valuable asset for global academic communication.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Ismail’s work contributes to the broader conversation on informal economies, a theme of growing importance in the context of global inequality, post-COVID labor transitions, and sustainable development. His research is especially relevant to African economies like Nigeria, where informality significantly affects growth, tax revenue, and labor outcomes.

His commitment to inclusive policy design, quantitative rigor, and evidence-based development strategies is shaping conversations among policymakers, economists, and international organizations. As a teacher, his influence extends to the next generation of economists, whom he mentors with patience, clarity, and insight.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Ismail Aremu Muhammed stands poised to leave a lasting legacy in the field of development economics. With the upcoming submission of his Ph.D. thesis in 2025, he is expected to make influential contributions through policy-relevant publications, international collaborations, and cross-country research on economic informality.

He is likely to become a key voice in African development discourse, combining academic excellence with real-world policy engagement. His future work may involve advisory roles, postdoctoral research, or leadership positions within global think tanks or universities — all platforms from which he can advance equitable, data-driven solutions to economic challenges.

🌱 In summary, Ismail’s journey is marked by diligence, intellectual passion, and a drive to transform economies through evidence, policy, and pedagogy. His research resonates globally but remains deeply rooted in the aspirations of developing regions. With a promising career ahead, Ismail Aremu Muhammed is a name to watch in the world of economics.

📝Notable Publications

Impact of renewable and non-renewable energy consumption, economic growth, and ICT on environmental degradation: Evidence from Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation countries

Author(s): Khan, R.Z.; Aremu, M.I.; Razak, L.A.; Premaratne, G.; Sattar, A.
Journal: International Journal of Green Energy
Year: 2025

INFORMAL ECONOMY, ISLAMIC FINANCE DEVELOPMENT, AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN MUSLIM-MAJORITY COUNTRIES

Author(s): Muhammed, I.A.; Khalid, A.M.; Premaratne, G.
Journal: Journal of Islamic Monetary Economics and Finance
Year: 2024

Renewable Energy and Economic Growth in “Next Eleven” Emerging Markets

Author(s): Muhammed, I.A.; Ubandawaki, A.T.
Book: Green Energy and Technology (Book Chapter)
Year: 2024

Prof Jinlong Zhu | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Jinlong Zhu | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China

Author Profile

Google Scholar 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Jinlong Zhu’s academic journey is a remarkable example of precision, determination, and passion for innovation. He began his higher education at Huazhong University of Science & Technology (HUST), where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanism Design, Manufacturing, and Automation with honors in 2010. His honors thesis focused on accurate scattering field modeling using the Boundary Element Method—already signaling his early interest in optical metrology and precision engineering. Encouraged by this success, he pursued a Ph.D. in Mechatronic Engineering at HUST’s prestigious State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment & Technology, where his dissertation explored robust solutions to inverse scattering problems in optical nanometrology. His work earned him the Innovative Scholarship for Excellent Doctoral Dissertation and National Scholarship for Graduate Students, cementing his reputation as a rising star in optics and photonics.

👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Zhu advanced into a globally renowned research environment by joining the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as a Post-Doctoral Researcher in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. From 2015 to 2020, he collaborated with esteemed faculty including Profs. Lynford Goddard, William P. King, and Sameh Tawfick. During this time, he contributed to and co-developed several groundbreaking research proposals, establishing himself as a leading figure in the development of next-generation optical systems, advanced metrology, and nanophotonic design.

Currently, Dr. Zhu is a Full Professor at Huazhong University of Science & Technology in the School of Mechanical Science and Engineering. His current role blends high-level teaching, mentorship, and cutting-edge research that bridges industry needs and academic advancement. His leadership has not only attracted significant grant funding but also stimulated cross-disciplinary collaboration in fields like semiconductor manufacturing, bioimaging, and computational optics.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zhu’s research spans across a rich spectrum of high-impact fields. He has pioneered developments in nanoscale metrology, anti-symmetric optics, inverse design for nanophotonic devices, and computational super-resolution techniques. His inventions have significantly enhanced optical and photonic inspection systems, particularly for semiconductor and biomedical applications. His research is deeply rooted in practical application—evident from the fact that his techniques are being actively used by leading companies in semiconductors, photonics, communication, and photovoltaics.

His work has brought advancements in non-invasive biosensing, subsurface nanometrology, virus detection, and OLED process monitoring. In total, he has filed over 50 patent applications, several of which have led to new technologies and even the establishment of new ventures such as E-optics Inc. His designs are known for their robustness, long-term reliability, and compatibility with industrial fabrication—making them critical tools in both academic and industrial innovation.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Zhu’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has been a key figure in securing more than $10 million in funded research proposals from highly competitive sources such as NSFC, NSF, Cisco, NVIDIA, and major industrial partners like Foxconn. His grant-winning proposals cover a wide range of ambitious goals—from sub-10 nm defect inspection on wafers to machine-learning-based optical systems and volumetric photonic circuit fabrication. His capacity to not only envision transformative ideas but also articulate them into fundable, impactful projects marks him as a top-tier innovator in his field.

🌍 Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. Zhu’s work is both broad and deep. He has significantly influenced the development of next-generation integrated photonics, nanoparticle sensing technologies, and advanced optical imaging instruments. His collaborative efforts have enhanced the performance and precision of industry-standard metrology tools, some of which have directly contributed to improving the quality control processes of global semiconductor firms.

Academically, he is a role model and mentor, providing opportunities and guidance to aspiring researchers through both classroom teaching and collaborative research. His interdisciplinary approach—uniting machine learning, optics, and mechanical engineering—serves as a blueprint for future academic and industry leaders alike.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As he continues to push boundaries, Dr. Jinlong Zhu’s legacy will be defined by bridging theoretical optical physics with real-world technological solutions. His commitment to tackling inverse problems, optimizing design through computation, and translating fundamental research into market-ready innovations makes him not only a thought leader but a catalyst for technological transformation. Looking ahead, he is poised to lead the next era of photonics, bioimaging, and AI-integrated sensing systems, with further ambitions to enhance the scalability and accessibility of high-resolution optical instruments.

📝Notable Publications

Direct laser writing of volumetric gradient index lenses and waveguides

Authors: CR Ocier, CA Richards, DA Bacon-Brown, Q Ding, R Kumar, TJ Garcia, …
Journal: Light: Science & Applications
Year: 2020

Optical wafer defect inspection at the 10 nm technology node and beyond

Authors: J Zhu, J Liu, T Xu, S Yuan, Z Zhang, H Jiang, H Gu, R Zhou, S Liu
Journal: International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing
Year: 2022

A combinatory ferroelectric compound bridging simple ABO₃ and A-site-ordered quadruple perovskite

Authors: J Zhao, J Gao, W Li, Y Qian, X Shen, X Wang, X Shen, Z Hu, C Dong, …
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2021

All-dielectric concentration of electromagnetic fields at the nanoscale: the role of photonic nanojets

Authors: J Zhu, LL Goddard
Journal: Nanoscale Advances
Year: 2019

Hardness, elastic, and electronic properties of chromium monoboride

Authors: L Han, S Wang, J Zhu, S Han, W Li, B Chen, X Wang, X Yu, B Liu, …
Journal: Applied Physics Letters
Year: 2015

Dr. Jennifer Ha | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jennifer Ha | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Perth Children’s Hospital, Australia

Author Profile

ORCID

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Jennifer Ha’s journey into the world of pediatric otorhinolaryngology began with an unwavering passion for medicine and a sharp intellect that led her to the University of Western Australia. There, she earned her MBBS with Honours, setting a strong academic foundation early in her career. Driven by a desire to deepen her anatomical expertise, she pursued a Graduate Diploma in Surgical Anatomy, which further refined her understanding of the intricate systems of the head and neck. Her growing interest in evidence-based practice inspired her to obtain a Master of Clinical Research, enabling her to critically engage with clinical data and design studies that have real-world application. Jennifer’s academic journey was not just about acquiring degrees—it was about building a platform for innovation and care, one grounded in both knowledge and compassion. 🌟

🩺 Professional Endeavors

As a Paediatric Otorhinolaryngologist at Perth Children’s Hospital, Dr. Ha has dedicated her career to improving the lives of children through compassionate, cutting-edge ENT care. Her role as a Clinical Senior Lecturer complements her clinical duties, allowing her to shape the next generation of surgeons through mentorship and research guidance. Her professional reach extends across public and private practice, including her presence at Wexford Medical Center in Murdoch, Western Australia. This dynamic positioning enables her to treat a diverse patient population and remain actively engaged in teaching, surgery, and community service.

A pivotal moment in her professional development was her advanced fellowship training at the prestigious CS Mott Children’s Hospital in Michigan, USA. This experience exposed her to the latest in pediatric airway surgery and inspired her to bring global best practices back to Australia. Her return marked the beginning of a new phase in her work—one that emphasized not just treatment, but innovation. She has since been at the forefront of introducing new technologies and approaches in ENT surgery. 🏥

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Ha’s research portfolio is both deep and diverse, reflecting her commitment to innovation and advancement in ENT medicine. She has successfully completed 79 research projects and is currently leading 14 more. Her studies span a wide range of topics including pediatric airway disorders, otologic anomalies, and the integration of 3D-printing in surgical training and pre-operative planning. One of her most impactful projects involved the local design and production of ENT-specific personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative not only addressed urgent clinical needs but also contributed to Australia’s long-term medical manufacturing capabilities.

Her work on computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D printing for airway graft simulation represents a blend of medicine and technology that is rare and transformative. By developing tools that simulate real-life surgical scenarios, she has improved confidence and skill levels in early-career ENT surgeons, ensuring better outcomes for patients and better training for professionals. Her publications have appeared in respected journals such as Heliyon, Current Pediatric Reviews, and the Australian Journal of Otolaryngology, cementing her position as both a clinical leader and a scholarly contributor. 🧪

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Recognition has followed Dr. Ha throughout her career, not only for her surgical skill but also for her forward-thinking contributions to research and education. She has earned first-place awards in international poster competitions—honors that showcase her ability to communicate complex clinical issues with clarity and vision. Her nomination for the prestigious Jean Littlejohn Award further reflects the respect she commands within the ENT community. She has also successfully secured competitive research grants, underscoring her capacity to conceive and execute impactful clinical studies.

These accolades are not just acknowledgments of personal achievement—they are a testament to the relevance and urgency of her work. Each honor reflects her commitment to pushing boundaries and addressing unmet needs in the healthcare system. 🏅

🌍 Impact and Influence

Beyond the operating room and academic settings, Dr. Ha has become a leading voice in healthcare innovation, particularly in how technology can be used to enhance surgical training and public health resilience. Her work in PPE development during the pandemic demonstrated not just scientific ingenuity, but also social responsibility and leadership under pressure. Through her teaching, she has mentored countless medical students and trainees, many of whom have gone on to establish successful careers of their own.

Her influence extends into interdisciplinary domains, as she collaborates with engineers, educators, and policymakers to build solutions that serve wider communities. Her presence in both public and private practice allows her to bridge gaps in service and ensure that patients receive the best care regardless of where they are seen. 🌐

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Jennifer Ha envisions a healthcare landscape where innovation is embedded in every aspect of patient care and professional training. She is currently exploring the potential of AI-assisted diagnostics in ENT, and developing modular, 3D-printed surgical training kits for use in under-resourced healthcare settings. Her long-term goal is to establish a regional hub for pediatric ENT innovation that integrates clinical service, research, and training into one cohesive ecosystem.

Her legacy will be defined not only by the lives she has touched in surgery and her research contributions, but also by her unwavering commitment to nurturing talent, breaking down barriers, and fostering a culture of curiosity and care. Through her work, Jennifer Ha is not only healing children—she’s shaping the future of pediatric ENT worldwide. 🔭💡👩‍⚕️

📝Notable Publications

Establishing local manufacture of PPE for healthcare workers in the time of a global pandemic

Authors: Anastasia Nilasaroya, Alan Matthew Kop, Ryan Christopher Collier, Brendan Kennedy, Lachlan James Kelsey, Faz Pollard, Jennifer Fong Ha, David Anthony Morrison
Journal: Heliyon
Year: 2023

Computer-Aided Design and 3D Printing for Airway Graft Carving Simulation and the Effect on Participants Performance and Confidence

Authors: Jennifer Ha
Journal: Australian Journal of Otolaryngology
Year: 2021

COVID-19 in Children: A Narrative Review

Author: Jennifer F. Ha
Journal: Current Pediatric Reviews
Year: 2021

Modified Minerva Cervical Thoracic Orthosis for Postoperative Management of Cricotracheal Resection

Author: Jennifer Ha
Journal: Ear, Nose & Throat Journal
Year: 2021

Change in swallow function after supraglottoplasty

Author: Jennifer Ha
Journal: Australian Journal of Otolaryngology
Year: 2021

Dr. Christina Tise | Servant Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Christina Tise | Servant Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Stanford University, United States

Profile

Scopus 

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Christina G. Tise, MD, PhD, embarked on her academic journey with a passion for the sciences, particularly in biochemistry. She pursued her undergraduate studies at Virginia Tech, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in May 2009. This foundational knowledge set the stage for her future work in medical genetics and genomics. During her time at Virginia Tech, Dr. Tise demonstrated a keen interest in how molecular biology could inform healthcare, leading her to pursue more specialized studies in the medical and genetic sciences.

In pursuit of her medical career, Dr. Tise entered the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 2010, where she completed her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2018. However, her academic pursuit did not stop there. While studying medicine, she simultaneously worked towards a PhD in Epidemiology and Human Genetics, with a focus on Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine. Her combined approach to MD and PhD studies allowed her to integrate clinical knowledge with a deep understanding of genetic research, particularly in genomics.

Professional Endeavors 🏥

Following her academic achievements, Dr. Tise’s professional career began to take shape at some of the most renowned institutions in the United States. She completed her internship in Pediatrics at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Stanford, in 2019, which marked the start of her clinical journey. She continued her medical training with a residency in Medical Genetics at both Stanford University Medical Center and Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital. Her residency in medical genetics was a pivotal time in her career, as she honed her skills in diagnosing and managing genetic conditions in pediatric populations.

In 2021, Dr. Tise pursued a fellowship in Clinical Biochemical Genetics at Stanford University Medical Center and Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital. This specialized training further refined her expertise in biochemical genetics, a critical field for diagnosing metabolic and other genetic disorders that require advanced biochemical analysis. By June 2022, Dr. Tise’s impressive trajectory in medical genetics had earned her a prominent position as an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in Medical Genetics at Stanford University, where she currently serves in this role.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Tise’s research focuses on the intersection of human genetics and genomics, specifically in the field of medical genetics. Her PhD work at the University of Maryland School of Medicine centered on human genetics and genomic medicine, laying the groundwork for her subsequent research. In her clinical work, she has significantly contributed to the understanding of biochemical genetics, working on diagnostic strategies for complex genetic conditions.

As an academic physician, Dr. Tise’s research interests include the integration of genetic testing in clinical settings, advancing methodologies for diagnosing rare and inherited metabolic disorders, and leveraging genomic data to tailor patient care. She has published various studies on genetic disorders and their clinical implications, exploring how genomic data can improve precision medicine. Her research also touches on public health genetics, examining epidemiological patterns of genetic disorders and their environmental interactions.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Throughout her career, Dr. Tise has garnered recognition for her expertise and contributions to the field of medical genetics. She is board-certified by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics in both Clinical Genetics and Genomics as well as Clinical Biochemical Genetics. These certifications speak to her depth of knowledge and clinical skills in genetics.

In addition to her academic qualifications, Dr. Tise holds a California Medical License and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration, enabling her to practice medicine and contribute to clinical research in her specialized areas. Her clinical and academic achievements have earned her a respected position in the field, where she continues to contribute to advancing medical genetics.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Dr. Tise’s work as an Assistant Professor at Stanford University has a significant impact on both her patients and the broader medical community. Through her clinical practice, she has directly influenced the care of patients with genetic disorders, particularly in pediatrics. Her research contributes to the body of knowledge in genetics, which in turn informs clinical practice, offering more accurate diagnostics and treatment strategies for genetic diseases.

Her educational role at Stanford also allows her to mentor and guide the next generation of geneticists and medical professionals. By training residents and fellows, she ensures that the latest genetic knowledge is passed on to those who will continue to innovate in the field. Through her commitment to both clinical care and research, Dr. Tise has become a vital force in the evolution of medical genetics.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Dr. Tise’s legacy is one of excellence in academic medicine, research, and clinical care. As she continues to make strides in the fields of genetic medicine and biochemistry, her contributions are setting the stage for groundbreaking work in genetic testing, diagnosis, and treatment. She is expected to have a long-lasting impact on how genetic conditions are understood and managed, particularly in pediatric populations.

Looking ahead, Dr. Tise plans to continue her research into the biochemical and genetic underpinnings of rare diseases. Her future work is likely to have a significant influence on personalized medicine, especially in the field of metabolic disorders. With her leadership at Stanford and her ongoing research endeavors, Dr. Tise will undoubtedly remain a key figure in the evolving field of medical genetics, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in genomic medicine and improving the lives of countless individuals affected by genetic conditions.

📝Notable Publications

Considerations for Reporting Variants in Novel Candidate Genes Identified During Clinical Genomic Testing

Authors: Chong, J.X., Berger, S.I., Baxter, S., Bamshad, M.J., Rehm, H.L.

Journal: Genetics in Medicine

Pages: 101199

Fetal Phenotype and Diagnosis of Autosomal Dominant Robinow Syndrome Due to Novel DVL1 Variant

Authors: Smith, C.M., Guinon, K., Bachir, S., Tise, C.G.

Journal: Prenatal Diagnosis

Year: 2024

Newborn Screening for X-Linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD): Biochemical, Molecular, and Clinical Characteristics of Other Genetic Conditions

Authors: Mares Beltran, C.F., Tise, C.G., Barrick, R., Enns, G.M., Abdenur, J.E.

Journal: Genes

Year: 2024

Molecular Testing in Newborn Screening: VUS Burden Among True Positives and Secondary Reproductive Limitations via Expanded Carrier Screening Panels

Authors: Cook, S., Dunn, E., Kornish, J., Cusmano-Ozog, K.P., Tise, C.G.

Journal: Genetics in Medicine

Year: 2024

Monozygotic Twins Discordant for a Congenital Cranial Dysinnervation Disorder with Features of Moebius Syndrome

Authors: Gates, R.W., Webb, B.D., Stevenson, D.A., Ruzhnikov, M.R.Z., Tise, C.G.

Journal: American Journal of Medical Genetics, Part A

Year: 2023