Prof. Dr. Natsuko Sawai | Team Building and Team Management | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Natsuko Sawai | Team Building and Team Management | Best Researcher Award

NTT Medical Center Tokyo | Japan

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Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Natsuko Yoshimura Sawai’s journey into the field of dentistry began with her studies at Osaka University, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and later pursued a doctorate in dental science. Her early academic training provided a robust foundation in oral and maxillofacial sciences, equipping her with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. Through rigorous coursework, clinical training, and research engagement, she cultivated a deep interest in oral surgery and infection control, areas that would later become the cornerstone of her career. Her academic background reflects a blend of scholarly dedication and clinical precision, preparing her to contribute meaningfully to dental education, patient care, and advanced research.

Professional Endeavors

Prof. Sawai’s professional career spans a diverse array of positions across prominent medical and academic institutions. She began as a trainee dentist in oral and maxillofacial surgery, advancing through clinical fellowships and gradually taking on more specialized responsibilities. Her long tenure at Osaka University Dental Hospital allowed her to refine her clinical skills and develop specialized expertise in surgery and oral health care. Later, her roles at Kanagawa Dental University included assistant professor, senior lecturer, and associate professor, through which she made significant contributions to academic training and clinical practice. She currently serves as a specially appointed professor in the Department of Education Planning at Kanagawa Dental University and as medical director of the Department of Oral Surgery at NTT Medical Center Tokyo, reflecting her dual commitment to academic leadership and high-level clinical practice.

Contributions and Research Focus

Throughout her career, Prof. Sawai has engaged in pioneering work that bridges clinical practice with research innovation. Her research interests lie in oral and maxillofacial surgery, cancer therapy, oro-facial neuronal function, and infection control. As a certified Infection Control Doctor and recognized specialist in oral surgery, her work has advanced the standards of surgical safety, patient outcomes, and integrated care. She has contributed to clinical advancements in managing complex oral cancers and developed protocols that address both surgical and post-operative challenges. Furthermore, her involvement in academic planning and teaching reflects a commitment to training the next generation of dental professionals, emphasizing evidence-based practices, advanced surgical techniques, and holistic patient-centered care.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Sawai’s expertise has been recognized by multiple esteemed organizations at both national and international levels. She holds certifications as a specialist and instructor from the Japanese Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and has also been accredited by the International Board for the Certification of Specialists in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Additionally, her recognition by the Japanese Board of Cancer Therapy and the Japanese Society of Oro-facial Neuronal Function underscores her wide-ranging expertise across subspecialties. These accreditations signify not only her advanced technical competence but also her commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards. Such recognition highlights her reputation as a leader whose expertise is trusted in both clinical and academic circles.

Impact and Influence

Prof. Sawai has had a profound impact on the fields of oral surgery and dental education. Her leadership roles have allowed her to shape clinical guidelines, develop educational curricula, and mentor emerging professionals. By combining her role as a professor with her duties as a medical director, she effectively integrates academic insights with real-world clinical practice, ensuring that theory translates into improved patient outcomes. She has influenced both peers and students through her ability to balance cutting-edge research with compassionate clinical care. Her contributions have elevated the profile of Japanese dentistry and oral surgery internationally, positioning her as a respected voice in global medical and academic communities.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her career, Prof. Sawai’s legacy is being built on her dedication to advancing oral and maxillofacial surgery, infection control, and cancer therapy. Her contributions to academic leadership, clinical innovation, and professional development reflect a lasting influence that extends well beyond her immediate institutions. Looking to the future, her dual positions enable her to further harmonize research, education, and clinical application, setting new standards for multidisciplinary integration in oral health care. Her vision for dentistry emphasizes not only technical excellence but also holistic care and international collaboration. This enduring commitment ensures that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of dental professionals and researchers while expanding the boundaries of knowledge and practice in oral health sciences.

Notable Publications

Assoc Prof Dr. Haijiang Yang | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Haijiang Yang | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Lanzhou University | China

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Early Academic Pursuits

From the earliest stages of his academic life, Dr. Haijiang Yang demonstrated a profound interest in the natural environment, geographical science, and the interconnectedness between humans and ecosystems. His undergraduate studies in geographical science laid the groundwork for his understanding of Earth systems and spatial analysis. Building upon this foundation, he pursued advanced training in physical geography, where he deepened his expertise in ecosystem processes, land use patterns, and environmental change. His doctoral research in geography at a leading institution provided a platform to explore complex issues at the interface of natural and social sciences. During this period, Dr. Yang honed his skills in ecosystem service assessment, spatial modeling, and interdisciplinary research approaches. His early academic trajectory reflects a persistent drive to merge scientific theory with applied solutions for sustainable regional development.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Yang’s professional career reflects a seamless transition from intensive academic training to impactful research and teaching. His postdoctoral work at Lanzhou University allowed him to lead and contribute to significant research projects examining climate change, land use transitions, and ecosystem service dynamics. Through this role, he not only advanced his technical expertise in spatial-temporal modeling and sustainability assessments but also developed leadership skills essential for managing research teams. In his current role as Associate Professor at the College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, he combines rigorous academic inquiry with mentorship, guiding students in research design, data analysis, and scientific communication. His responsibilities extend beyond teaching to fostering collaborative research partnerships, securing competitive funding, and contributing to institutional and regional research priorities.

Contributions and Research Focus

At the heart of Dr. Yang’s scholarly contributions lies his dedication to understanding ecosystem services—specifically their spatial distribution, temporal evolution, and socio-ecological value. His research encompasses critical topics such as the spillover effects of ecosystem services, telecoupling processes, and mechanisms for cost-benefit sharing through eco-compensation. Much of his work is centered on the Qilian Mountains, a vital ecological region in China, where he investigates the interplay between climate change, land use dynamics, and service provision. His studies address both ecological and human dimensions, ensuring that his findings are relevant to policymakers, conservationists, and local communities. Through advanced modeling techniques and interdisciplinary analysis, Dr. Yang has produced knowledge that directly supports sustainable environmental management, agricultural optimization, and biodiversity conservation.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Yang’s growing academic profile is underscored by the competitive research grants and fellowships he has secured. His leadership as principal investigator on multiple national, provincial, and postdoctoral funding projects demonstrates both the trust of the scientific community in his capabilities and the relevance of his research to pressing environmental challenges. His publications in internationally recognized journals such as Ecosystem Services, Agricultural Systems, Environmental Research, and Ecological Indicators have brought his work to a global audience. The consistent quality and applicability of his research have established him as an emerging voice in the fields of ecosystem services and sustainable development.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. Yang’s work is evident in its practical applications for environmental policy, land management, and agricultural planning. By quantifying ecosystem services and analyzing their cross-border effects, he provides data-driven frameworks that can be used for regional cooperation and eco-compensation schemes. His studies on pollinator services, agricultural sustainability, and ecosystem provisioning have informed strategies for balancing environmental conservation with economic productivity. Beyond his direct research outputs, Dr. Yang’s mentorship of students and collaboration with colleagues contribute to building scientific capacity in the field. His influence extends to multiple stakeholder groups, including scientists, decision-makers, and local communities who benefit from his evidence-based recommendations.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Yang’s vision for the future is centered on advancing integrated approaches to sustainable regional development, with a particular emphasis on human-environment interactions in ecologically sensitive areas. He aims to further develop methodologies that combine ecological modeling with socio-economic analysis, thereby producing tools that can guide large-scale environmental planning and governance. Expanding his international collaborations is also a priority, as he seeks to exchange knowledge and best practices with global experts in sustainability science. His commitment to research excellence, community engagement, and interdisciplinary innovation positions him to continue making lasting contributions to environmental management and policy. Through these endeavors, Dr. Yang is poised to strengthen both the scientific understanding and practical implementation of sustainability strategies in China and beyond.

Notable Publications

Increasing deep soil water uptake during drought does not indicate higher drought resistance

Authors: Yin, D.; Gou, X.; Liu, J.; Zhang, D.; Wang, K.; Yang, H.
Journal: Journal of Hydrology
Year: 2024

Research progress on the valuation of forest ecosystem services in China during 2010 to 2021

Authors: Yang, H.; Gou, X.; Tang, C.; Xue, B.
Journal: Chinese Journal of Ecology
Year: 2024

Response of tree growth to drought variability in arid areas: Local hydroclimate and large-scale precipitation

Authors: Zhang, Y.; Gou, X.; Wang, T.; Zhang, F.; Wang, K.; Yang, H.; Yang, K.
Journal: Environmental Research
Year: 2024

The Sino-US trade friction would exacerbate global inequalities in achieving SDGs

Authors: Ma, W.; Li, C.; Kou, J.; Wang, X.; Yang, H.; Xue, B.; Gou, X.
Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
Year: 2024

Elevation-dependent tree growth response to recent warming and drought on eastern Tibetan Plateau

Authors: Yin, D.; Gou, X.; Yang, H.; Wang, K.; Liu, J.; Zhang, Y.; Gao, L.
Journal: Climatic Change
Year: 2023

Conclusion

Dr. Haijiang Yang’s academic and professional journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding and improving the relationship between human societies and the natural environment. His work, grounded in rigorous scientific analysis and motivated by real-world challenges, bridges the gap between theory and practice in ecosystem service research. With a solid record of scholarly output, competitive project leadership, and a vision aligned with global sustainability goals, Dr. Yang stands as a dynamic contributor to the fields of geography, environmental science, and regional development. His career trajectory suggests a continuing influence on both academic thought and the practical frameworks that guide sustainable environmental management.

Dr. Marina Gravit |Charismatic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marina Gravit |Charismatic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Peter the Great St. Petersburg University, Russia

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🌟 Early Academic Pursuits

Marina Viktorovna Gravit began her academic journey at St. Petersburg State Technical University, graduating in 1995 as a chemical engineer-technologist. She specialized in the processing of plastics and composite materials, with a particular focus on elastomers. This solid educational foundation prepared her for a career dedicated to exploring innovative solutions in material processing and safety. Her academic curiosity continued with a Ph.D. in fire and industrial safety from the St. Petersburg University of State Fire Service in 2007. The focus of her research extended into construction safety, reflecting her commitment to addressing critical challenges in fire protection and industrial security.

Her pursuit of certifications further solidified her expertise. In 2011, she was certified by “Rostekhnadzor” in industrial safety, petrochemical, and oil-refining sectors. Later, in 2014, she became a certified technical expert in chemistry, construction, and fire safety by the Federal Accreditation Service. These milestones highlight her dedication to integrating academic knowledge with practical applications.

🏗️ Professional Endeavors

Marina Gravit’s professional career spans various roles across industries, each reflecting her multifaceted expertise. She began her career as a chemist-technologist in automotive sealants production at Argo LLC (1999–2001). Transitioning into leadership, she served as the head of the quality management department at Nevskie Paints LLC (2001–2003), where she ensured rigorous standards in chemical manufacturing.

From 2003 to 2009, she led the development department at the Scientific Innovative Center for Construction and Fire Safety (SICCFS LLC). Here, she spearheaded projects focused on fire safety innovations, gaining recognition for her contributions to fire-resistant materials and structural safety. Her tenure at LLC “NICSSiPB” (2009–2013) saw her advancing to deputy general director and chief engineer, where she oversaw scientific and technical support for unique projects, including fire protection for complex structures.

Since 2016, she has been an Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Industrial and Civil Engineering at Peter the Great Polytechnic University. Her prior role (2013–2016) as an Associate Professor at the Department of Management and Protection in Emergency Situations further underscores her commitment to education and knowledge dissemination.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Marina Gravit’s research is pivotal in advancing fire safety in construction. Her work involves developing experimental methods for assessing fire hazards in materials and testing the fire resistance of building structures. Her contributions as part of a team of developers for four Russian national standards in fire resistance exemplify her impact on shaping regulatory frameworks.

One notable project was the development of methodologies for full-scale fire resistance testing of translucent structures for high-rise buildings, including the Lakhta Center complex—a testament to her ability to tackle challenges in modern architecture. Her expertise also extends to product certification in industrial safety, ensuring adherence to rigorous safety standards.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Marina’s certifications and accreditations speak volumes about her professional credibility. She is recognized as an expert in industrial safety, a certification achieved under the “Intergazsert system” in 2019. Her work in developing fire safety products has earned her respect within the industry. As a key contributor to national standards, she has played an instrumental role in aligning Russian safety regulations with contemporary challenges.

🌍 Impact and Influence

The influence of Marina’s work extends beyond academia into real-world applications. Her role in shaping fire safety protocols has directly impacted the construction of safer buildings in Russia, particularly high-rise structures. Her innovations in fire-resistant materials contribute to creating environments that prioritize human safety while enhancing structural integrity.

As an educator, she has inspired countless students and professionals to approach fire safety and industrial construction with a balance of scientific rigor and practical problem-solving.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Marina Viktorovna Gravit’s legacy lies in her dedication to fostering safer environments through fire safety innovations and education. Her contributions to developing national standards and her expertise in product certification underscore her impact on both industry and academia.

Looking ahead, her ongoing role as an Associate Professor positions her to mentor the next generation of engineers and researchers. Her work ensures a continued focus on addressing emerging challenges in fire safety, particularly in adapting to the needs of modern construction technologies and sustainable practices. Marina’s multifaceted contributions remain a cornerstone of progress in fire safety and industrial engineering.

✨ Her career reflects a harmonious blend of academic excellence, professional expertise, and societal impact—an inspiring figure in the realm of fire safety and industrial engineering.

📝Notable Publications

Estimation of the pores dimensions of intumescent coatings for increase the fire resistance of building structures

Authors: M. Gravit, V. Gumenyuk, M. Sychov, O. Nedryshkin

Journal: Procedia Engineering

Year: 2015

Fire protective dry plaster composition for structures in hydrocarbon fire

Authors: M.V. Gravit, E.V. Golub, S.P. Antonov

Journal: Magazine of Civil Engineering

Year: 2018

Geoecoprotective properties of cement and concrete against heavy metal ions

Authors: L. Svatovskaya, M. Shershneva, M. Baydarashvily, A. Sychova, M. Sychov, M. Gravit

Journal: Procedia Engineering

Year: 2015

Increase of fire resistance limits of building structures of oil-and-gas complex under hydrocarbon fire

Authors: M. Gravit, E. Gumerova, A. Bardin, V. Lukinov

Journal: Energy Management of Municipal Transportation Facilities and Transport

Year: 2017

Influence of carbon additives on operational properties of the intumescent coatings for the fire protection of building constructions

Authors: O. Zybina, M. Gravit, Y. Stein

Journal: IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science

Year: 2017