Dr. Shabbir Ahmad | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shabbir Ahmad | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Awar

The University of Queensland, Australia

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Shabbir Ahmad embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in economics, which ultimately propelled him into the realm of applied econometrics. After completing his undergraduate education, he pursued advanced studies, earning a Ph.D. in Applied Econometrics from the University of Queensland in 2014. His dissertation, titled “Econometric Estimation of the Components of Total Factor Productivity,” marked the beginning of his deep dive into the intricacies of economic modeling and analysis. This work laid the groundwork for his future contributions in agricultural development policy, financial inclusion, and environmental sustainability.

Dr. Ahmad’s early academic interests were centered on the use of quantitative methods to tackle real-world challenges. His fascination with data analytics, econometrics, and complex economic modeling began during his time at the International Islamic University in Islamabad, where he served both as a Lecturer and later as an Assistant Professor. His academic pursuits during this time established him as a committed scholar who continuously sought to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Professional Endeavors and Contributions 🌍

Dr. Ahmad’s professional career has spanned multiple prestigious institutions, reflecting his growing expertise in economics and research. From 2009 to 2014, he worked at the International Islamic University, Islamabad, where he contributed to the academic development of students and conducted impactful research in economics. In 2014, he moved to Australia to join the University of Queensland, where he embarked on an expansive career, contributing significantly to the academic and research landscapes.

From 2014 to 2020, Dr. Ahmad held various research fellow positions within the University of Queensland, including roles in the UQ Business School and the Sustainable Minerals Institute. His work in these roles focused on econometrics, policy analysis, and the intersection of sustainability with economic systems. His research interests expanded further to include agricultural development policy, financial inclusion, and the sustainability of natural resources.

Since 2020, Dr. Ahmad has been serving as a Senior Research Fellow at the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, where he leads teams in tackling complex issues related to agriculture, food security, and environmental sustainability. His work at QAAFI is critical to understanding how econometrics can be applied to agricultural policy to improve productivity and sustainability across Australia.

Research Focus and Impact 🌱

Dr. Ahmad’s research spans several crucial areas, all aimed at enhancing economic outcomes and sustainability in various sectors. His work in applied econometrics focuses on developing statistical models that provide actionable insights into agricultural productivity, financial inclusion, and environmental sustainability. By analyzing large datasets and applying advanced quantitative methods, Dr. Ahmad has been able to contribute to significant policy discussions on sustainable development and financial empowerment, particularly in underserved populations.

His contributions to agricultural development policy are particularly noteworthy. Through his work, Dr. Ahmad has sought to identify key factors influencing agricultural productivity, and how economic models can inform more effective policies. His research on financial inclusion highlights the importance of economic access for marginalized groups, advocating for strategies that ensure equitable financial opportunities for all.

In the realm of environmental sustainability, Dr. Ahmad has used his expertise to explore the intersection of economic systems and natural resource management. His research aims to provide sustainable solutions for managing natural resources and mitigating the effects of climate change, thus ensuring long-term ecological balance and economic resilience.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout his career, Dr. Shabbir Ahmad has garnered numerous accolades, cementing his reputation as an expert in the field of applied econometrics and economic policy. His work has been widely cited and has influenced both academic scholars and policy-makers alike. His contributions to the development of agricultural policies and financial inclusion strategies have earned him recognition in the academic community.

In addition to his research contributions, Dr. Ahmad has received several awards and honors, acknowledging his leadership in promoting effective team culture and his excellence in research. His ability to communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences has made him a sought-after speaker at academic and policy-related conferences globally.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Dr. Ahmad’s work extends far beyond academia. His strategic policy advice has impacted various sectors, including agriculture, finance, and environmental sustainability. By working with governments, institutions, and international organizations, Dr. Ahmad has helped shape policies that are not only data-driven but also aligned with broader developmental goals. His expertise has contributed to several key projects aimed at improving productivity in agriculture, expanding financial inclusion, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of natural resources.

His leadership in team management and stakeholder engagement has been instrumental in fostering a collaborative approach to research, allowing him to drive projects that make a tangible difference in addressing global challenges. Dr. Ahmad has also played a pivotal role in promoting the use of data analytics and econometrics as powerful tools for solving complex policy issues.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

As Dr. Shabbir Ahmad continues his work at the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, his vision for the future is centered on creating sustainable economic solutions that address the pressing challenges of the 21st century. His work on applied econometrics and policy analysis will continue to shape the future of agricultural development, financial systems, and environmental conservation.

Dr. Ahmad is dedicated to training the next generation of economists and policy experts. His future contributions include mentoring young researchers and providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to tackle global economic issues. By blending his passion for teaching with his commitment to research, Dr. Ahmad aims to leave a lasting legacy that combines academic excellence with a profound societal impact.

Through his continued leadership in economic research, Dr. Ahmad is poised to drive change in areas that are crucial for global development, leaving an indelible mark on both the academic community and the broader world.

In summary, Dr. Shabbir Ahmad’s career is characterized by a commitment to advancing economic knowledge, promoting sustainability, and creating lasting positive change through research and policy development. His future is filled with promise, as he continues to work at the intersection of econometrics, policy analysis, and global development challenges. 🌍

📝Notable Publications

How are technological innovation and fiscal decentralization effect on the environment? A story of fourth industrial revolution and sustainable growth

Authors: Z. Ya, Cheng, Awan, Usama, Ahmad, Shabbir, and Tan
Journal: Technological Forecasting and Social Change
Year: 2020
Citations: 384

Does economic growth stimulate energy consumption? The role of human capital and R&D expenditures in China

Authors: XVV Muhammad Shahbaz, Malin Song, Shabbir Ahmad
Journal: Energy Economics
Year: 2021
Citations: 159

Banking Sector Performance, Profitability and Efficiency: A citation-based systematic literature review

Authors: N. Amjad, N. Ahmed, S. Ahmad, I. Butt
Journal: Economic Surveys
Year: 2020
Citations: 123

Does institutional quality and remittances inflow crowd-in private investment to avoid Dutch Disease? A case for emerging seven (E7) economies

Authors: CW Su, T. Sun, S. Ahmad, N. Mirza
Journal: Resources Policy
Year: 2021
Citations: 97

Bank governance changes in Pakistan: Is there a performance effect?

Authors: AA Burki, S. Ahmad
Journal: Journal of Economics and Business
Year: 2010
Citations: 78

 

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