Dr. Muhammad Umar Farooq | Team Building and Team Management | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Muhammad Umar Farooq | Team Building and Team Management | Best Researcher Award

Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Muhammad Umar Farooq’s academic journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to scientific exploration. Hailing from Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan, his early education in Physics and Mathematics laid a strong foundation for a career rooted in scientific rigor and innovation. He earned his BSc from the University of The Punjab, Lahore, and continued to refine his interest in physics through an MSc from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. His research at this stage already hinted at his future trajectory, dealing with complex physical principles and phenomena.

Eager to deepen his understanding, he pursued an MS in Physics at the International Islamic University Islamabad, where he engaged in advanced experimental research using Langmuir probes to measure plasma electron temperatures and densities—a clear indication of his growing interest in applied and experimental physics. His academic ambitions culminated in a Ph.D. in Electronic Science and Technology at the prestigious University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC). There, he undertook groundbreaking work on gold nanoparticles and gadolinium-doped zinc oxide quantum dots, focusing on their use in nanovehicles for enhanced chemotherapy outcomes—a significant stride in nanobiotechnology.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Muhammad Umar Farooq’s career is defined by continuous evolution, marked by prestigious research positions across Asia and Europe. His postdoctoral career began at the State Key Lab of Biotherapy at Sichuan University, where he contributed to the development of ultra-sensitive multimodal nanoprobes aimed at tumor precision diagnosis. This role highlighted his expertise in integrating imaging techniques such as MRI, CT, and NIR fluorescence for enhanced diagnostic tools.

From 2018 to 2019, he worked at the State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, delving into the reaction kinetics of supported catalysts for environmentally efficient chemical production. His pursuit of excellence led him to Russia, where he joined Kazan Federal University as a Senior Researcher at the A. M. Butlerov Institute of Chemistry. Currently, he serves as both a Postdoctoral Researcher and Senior Researcher at the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, focusing on the design and behavior of micro/nano-motors for advanced sensing applications.

His earlier professional experience includes roles as a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Laser and Optronics in Islamabad, where he explored plasma-based modification of biomaterial surfaces, and as a Physics and Mathematics Instructor under the School Education Department in Punjab, Pakistan. These foundational roles reflect his broad-based knowledge and dedication to scientific education and research.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Muhammad Umar Farooq’s research is at the cutting edge of nanotechnology and material science. His work spans from synthesizing inorganic and organic nanoparticles to engineering surface properties for specific biomedical and energy applications. He has contributed significantly to the development of nanoconjugates—complex nanomaterial systems that hold great promise in drug delivery, diagnostics, and catalysis.

One of his core research interests lies in catalysis and catalytic reaction engineering. Here, he explores how advanced nanocatalysts with customized surface and interface properties can improve industrially relevant reactions. His focus on surface engineering and the integration of polymeric systems showcases his ability to tailor materials for desired functionalities, making his work both innovative and application-driven.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

While formal accolades and awards were not explicitly listed, Muhammad Umar Farooq’s academic and professional journey reflects the kind of recognition earned through merit and consistent achievement. His appointments at globally renowned institutions such as Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sichuan University, and Kazan Federal University underscore his standing as a respected researcher. His role as a Senior Researcher is itself a testament to his scientific reputation and leadership capabilities in the field of nanotechnology.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Farooq’s multidisciplinary research has far-reaching implications. His contributions to cancer diagnostics, eco-efficient chemical production, and advanced sensor technologies place him at the intersection of science and real-world solutions. His work is not confined to theoretical development; instead, it actively bridges the gap between lab-scale innovation and practical, industrial, or clinical implementation.

His influence extends to his mentorship of young researchers and collaboration with international research teams, fostering a culture of scientific exchange and global problem-solving.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Muhammad Umar Farooq is poised to continue shaping the fields of nanoscience and materials engineering. With a strong foundation in both fundamental physics and applied chemistry, his research is expected to advance the development of next-generation biomedical devices, sustainable catalysis systems, and intelligent sensing technologies.

Driven by a deep curiosity about the behavior of matter at the nanoscale, his legacy will likely be characterized by both scholarly innovation and practical impact. As he continues to contribute to high-impact projects, train future scientists, and publish groundbreaking work, his role as a thought leader in nanotechnology is only expected to grow.

📝Notable Publications

In-vitro evaluation of a multimodal pH-activatable nanoprobe for synergistic dual-drug delivery in tumor-targeted therapy

Author: Muhammad Umar Farooq
Journal: Materials Chemistry and Physics
Year: 2025

A step towards rational design of hierarchical porous MOFs architectures for emerging practical implementations

Author: Muhammad Umar Farooq
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Year: 2025

DFT and Molecular Docking Study of HA-Conjugated SWCNTs for CD44-Targeted Delivery of Platinum-Based Chemotherapeutics

Author: Muhammad Umar Farooq
Journal: Pharmaceuticals
Year: 2025

 Highly sensitive detection of drug, and energy storage based on electrochemical system by using transition metal sulfides@carbon nanotubes nanocomposites electrodes

Author: Muhammad Umar Farooq
Journal: Diamond and Related Materials
Year: 2025

 Seashell-based bioceramics for advanced electrospun tissue scaffolds

Author: Muhammad Umar Farooq
Journal: The European Chemistry and Biotechnology Journal
Year: 2025

Assoc Prof Dr. Asha Binu Raj | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Asha Binu Raj | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Bank Management (NIBM), Pune, India, India

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Asha Binu Raj began her journey into the academic world with a deep-rooted interest in understanding human behavior, organizational systems, and the nuances of talent development. Her early academic pursuits were built on a strong educational foundation in Human Resource Management and Organizational Behaviour, areas that would later become the bedrock of her career. She demonstrated a consistent commitment to learning and scholarly excellence, which led her to pursue advanced degrees, culminating in a robust academic portfolio that qualified her to teach and mentor students across various academic levels. This academic curiosity laid the foundation for what would become a multifaceted and impactful career in both the academic and corporate worlds.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

With over 22 years of total professional experience, Dr. Asha Binu Raj currently serves as an Associate Professor at the National Institute of Bank Management (NIBM), Pune. Her career reflects a rich blend of academia and industry, uniquely positioning her as a practitioner-academic. She has dedicated over 13 years to teaching in prestigious doctoral, postgraduate, and undergraduate programs including Ph.D., MBA, and BBA courses. Her subjects of expertise include Human Resource Management, Organizational Behaviour, and Leadership.

Prior to her academic career, she amassed 8 years and 7 months of corporate experience, specializing in talent acquisition and human resource consulting. This dual exposure has allowed her to offer students and professionals alike a practical and application-oriented learning experience. Dr. Raj’s role extends beyond the classroom—she has been a designer and facilitator of numerous training programs for professionals across industries, addressing core HR challenges and leadership development.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Raj is not only a dedicated educator but also a prolific researcher and thought leader. Her research areas span a wide spectrum within HRM and OB, including talent management, employee engagement, employer and internal branding, organizational citizenship behavior, employee wellbeing, and corporate social responsibility. She has presented her findings at several national and international conferences, where her work has consistently been well-received.

Her research has been published in high-quality journals, including those ranked in the ABDC A, B, and C categories, and indexed in SCOPUS, Web of Science, EBSCO, ProQuest, SSRN, and CiteWeb. She has also authored and edited book chapters, contributing to academic literature that supports both scholars and practitioners.

Dr. Raj’s pedagogical approach is deeply informed by her research. She employs evidence-based strategies in her teaching and actively contributes to course design, development, and coordination. She is also an advocate for using digital tools and modern pedagogies such as gamification, project-based learning, and case-based teaching, making her classes engaging and impactful.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Asha Binu Raj has received recognition for her academic contributions, leadership in training, and commitment to student mentorship. Her scholarly publications in reputed journals and her role in consultancy projects have been acknowledged in academic circles. As a trainer, she has been consistently appreciated for her ability to connect theory with practice, making complex concepts accessible to learners from diverse professional backgrounds. While specific awards and honors are not listed, her career trajectory and institutional affiliations reflect a highly respected position within the academic and HRM communities.

🌱 Impact and Influence

Dr. Raj’s influence is felt deeply among her students, colleagues, and trainees. Her mentorship has guided many doctoral and postgraduate students toward successful academic and professional careers. She is often seen not just as a teacher, but as a coach, mentor, and guide who invests in the holistic development of her learners. Her work in training programs has impacted professionals across sectors, enabling them to align personal effectiveness with organizational goals.

Her consulting engagements have helped organizations navigate talent-related challenges and implement strategies around employee engagement, branding, and leadership development. She is known for her empathetic and inclusive approach, which enhances her ability to foster organizational citizenship and well-being.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her journey in academia and industry, Dr. Asha Binu Raj is poised to leave a legacy marked by integrity, innovation, and impact. Her future aspirations include deepening research in areas such as workplace wellness, leadership in dynamic environments, and digital HR transformations. She is committed to mentoring the next generation of HR professionals and scholars, promoting inclusive education and leadership, and contributing to policy and practice through her consultancy work.

Dr. Raj’s journey is a testament to the power of lifelong learning, interdisciplinary insight, and purpose-driven work. Her story continues to inspire emerging professionals and scholars to blend rigor with relevance, and knowledge with empathy, in their own professional paths.

Dr. Haixia (Helen) Hu | Management | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Haixia (Helen) Hu | Management | Best Researcher Award

London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), United Kingdom

Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Haixia (Helen) Hu embarked on her academic journey with a keen interest in international business and economic geography. She pursued her Master of Science (MSc) in International Business at the University of Birmingham in 2017, a foundational experience that set the stage for her advanced studies. Recognizing her passion for exploring global business dynamics, she continued her academic journey by enrolling in a Ph.D. program at the University of Birmingham. Her doctoral research delved deep into the internationalization of British independent schools, a study that examined the economic and non-economic transactions between developed and emerging economies. This research provided a critical understanding of how educational institutions expand beyond national borders, engaging with new markets and cultural environments.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Dr. Hu’s professional career reflects her commitment to academic excellence and teaching. Before joining the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), she served as a Teaching Fellow at the University of Warwick and the University of Birmingham. In these roles, she was instrumental in educating students on various aspects of international business strategy and economic geography. Her teaching methodologies emphasize qualitative research, case studies, and real-world applications, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical insights. Her transition to LSE as a Fellow in Management marks a significant step in her career, positioning her at one of the world’s leading institutions for business and management education.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔄

Dr. Hu’s research is at the intersection of international business and economic geography, focusing on how institutions navigate globalization. Her doctoral research on the internationalization of British independent schools employed a qualitative approach, incorporating 98 semi-structured interviews to gain an in-depth understanding of the subject. By analyzing the economic and non-economic exchanges between developed and emerging economies, her work contributes valuable insights into global education markets. Beyond her doctoral research, she continues to explore themes of business expansion, institutional strategies in international markets, and the role of geography in economic transactions.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Hu’s research achievements have been recognized at esteemed academic forums. Notably, her work on the internationalization of British independent schools earned the Best Paper Award at the 17th Vaasa International Business Conference. This prestigious accolade highlights the academic rigor and innovative perspectives she brings to the field. Her recognition at international conferences underscores her growing influence in the academic community and her ability to contribute novel insights to ongoing debates in international business and economic geography.

Impact and Influence 🌎

Dr. Hu’s work has significant implications for both academia and industry. Her research provides policymakers and educational institutions with a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in global education expansion. By shedding light on economic and non-economic transactions between countries, her studies assist educational institutions in making informed decisions about international partnerships, market entry strategies, and cultural integration. Additionally, her role as an educator allows her to influence the next generation of business leaders and researchers, shaping their understanding of global business dynamics and economic geography.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Looking ahead, Dr. Hu is poised to make further contributions to her field. As a Fellow in Management at LSE, she is in a prime position to advance her research and continue mentoring students in international business and economic geography. Her future work is expected to delve deeper into institutional internationalization strategies, the evolving role of geography in global business operations, and the implications of cross-border educational exchanges. With a strong foundation in research, teaching, and academic service, Dr. Hu’s influence will continue to expand, reinforcing her role as a thought leader in international business and economic geography.

Through her academic pursuits, professional endeavors, and research contributions, Dr. Haixia (Helen) Hu has established herself as a prominent figure in her field. Her dedication to exploring the complexities of global business transactions and institutional internationalization ensures that her work remains relevant and impactful for years to come.

📝Notable Publications

Labour’s high tax plan may not mean economic growth

What International Car Companies Seeking Success In China Need To Know

Triple-loop springboarding and simulacrum enterprises: Financialization and new forms of emerging economy educational international businesses

Understanding the uniqueness of emerging markets and their firms: institutional voids-based dynamic capabilities in the Chinese automotive sector