Dr. Eric Allara Ngaba | Decision-making and Problem-solving |Best Scholar Award

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Dr. Eric Allara Ngaba | Decision-making and Problem-solving |Best Scholar Award

Université de N’Djamena, Chad

Author Profile

Google Scholar 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Born on December 8, 1988, in N’Djamena, Chad 🇹🇩, Allara Ngaba Eric’s academic journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for economics and public policy. His formative years in higher education began at the University of Moundou, where he obtained his Licence in Economics between 2009 and 2011. Recognized for his academic potential early on, he pursued advanced studies in Cameroon — a strategic move that placed him at the heart of Francophone Africa’s academic and research excellence.

His intellectual curiosity and strong analytical capabilities led him to enroll at Université de Yaoundé II (Soa), where he simultaneously earned two Master’s degrees: one in Applied Economics (2013–2015), and another in Mathematical Economics and Econometrics (2013–2014). These rigorous programs provided him with a solid foundation in quantitative research, modeling, and data analysis, skills essential for tackling complex socio-economic issues. His academic journey culminated in a Doctorate (PhD) in Public and Human Resource Economics, with a specialization in Health Economics, awarded by the University of Dschang in 2018 🎓 — a testament to his dedication and scholarly excellence.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Allara’s professional path is marked by a consistent commitment to teaching, research, and public policy advisory. His teaching career began in earnest in February 2021 at the École Normale Supérieure of N’Djamena, where he served as a lecturer. His pedagogical contributions continued to evolve when, in March 2024, he was appointed as a lecturer-researcher at the Faculty of Economics and Management at the University of N’Djamena. There, he teaches both undergraduate and doctoral-level courses in the Department of Economics and Management, nurturing future economists and policy thinkers.

Parallel to his academic work, Allara gained significant international experience as a Technical Consultant at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from August 2019 to January 2021 🌍. Working directly with the Office of the Executive Secretary, he contributed to the development of strategic documents and flagship projects — an experience that broadened his policy perspective and exposed him to high-level development planning across the African continent.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

A specialist in health economics, Allara’s research intersects gender equity, public health service delivery, and economic empowerment. His work focuses on how socio-economic and gender-related determinants impact access to health services, particularly maternal health in sub-Saharan Africa. His analytical expertise in econometrics enables him to address these issues with precision and scientific rigor.

Currently, two of his major papers are under second-round review in leading international journals. The first, submitted to Social Science & Medicine, investigates how different dimensions of women’s decision-making power affect early prenatal care utilization in Burkina Faso — an important topic given the region’s maternal health challenges 👩‍⚕️. The second, co-authored with regional scholars and under review at BMC Health Services Research, explores whether women’s participation in decision-making influences the timing of prenatal visits — a critical indicator of maternal and child health outcomes.

These works underscore his commitment to evidence-based research that informs health policy and promotes gender-sensitive public health strategies.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

In July 2023, Allara achieved a significant academic milestone when he was officially registered as a Maître-Assistant by CAMES (Conseil Africain et Malgache pour l’Enseignement Supérieur) 🏅. This title not only acknowledges his scholarly achievements but also places him among the cadre of respected academics recognized across Francophone Africa. His association as a researcher at the Centre for Research in Applied Microeconomics (REMA) in Cameroon further cements his reputation as a cross-border scholar contributing to policy-relevant economic research.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Allara’s work is beginning to shape important discussions in African public health policy, especially as it relates to gender and health service access. His involvement in both academic and international policy environments allows him to bridge theory and practice effectively. As a mentor and instructor, he influences young economists in Chad — equipping them not only with technical skills but also with a critical understanding of development challenges in the African context.

His technical advisory role at the UNECA offered him a platform to contribute to continental policy agendas, especially in health financing and human resource development. Through his academic publications and policy briefs, he is becoming a recognized voice in regional development economics.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a scholar-practitioner, Allara Ngaba Eric is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of African economists and policymakers. His future ambitions likely include expanding his research into other areas of health economics, influencing health systems reform, and leading interdisciplinary collaborations across African universities and research institutions 🤝. With ongoing contributions to high-impact journals and increasing participation in academic networks, his visibility is set to grow within global research communities.

Looking ahead, his dedication to capacity building, evidence-based policy, and academic mentorship offers a roadmap for meaningful development in public health economics. By aligning his expertise with Africa’s pressing needs, Allara exemplifies the scholar-leader needed for the continent’s future.

📝Notable Publications

 Does safe delivery depend on antenatal care in Cameroon

Author(s): I. Danadji, E.A. Ngaba, C. Mapa
Journal: African Journal of Health Sciences
Year: 2022

Effect of gender inequalities on human capital development in Sub-Saharan Africa

Author(s): H. Tamboura, I. Danadji, E.A. Ngaba, A. Diallo
Journal: International Journal of Scientific Research in Multidisciplinary Studies
Year: 2022

Potential Economic Impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on Chad: A Partial Equilibrium Analysis

Author(s): E.A. Ngaba, N. Bayale, S.N. Dobah
Journal: — (Journal name not specified in your input, possibly unpublished or conference paper)
Year: 2020

 Inequalities in effective access to obstetric care in Chad

Author(s): E.A. Ngaba, B.F. Kamga
Journal: African Journal of Economic Review
Year: 2021

From food inflation to cash transfers and food subsidies: Assessing impacts on households’ consumption and welfare in Togo

Author(s): N. Bayale, T. Lanie, E.A. Ngaba, M. Nagou, K. Abah
Journal: African Development Review
Year: 2023 (Note: Based on volume 36 (4), which corresponds to 2023)

Dr. Wenfeng Han | Transformational Leadership | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Wenfeng Han | Transformational Leadership | Women Researcher Award

Zhejiang Industry Polytechnic College, China

Author profile

Scopus 

Early Academic Pursuits

Wenfeng Han’s academic journey in the field of food science and technology began with a strong foundation in Oil and Fat Engineering at Henan University of Technology, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in 2002. This initial exposure to the intricacies of food processing provided her with the knowledge of food structure, material science, and basic engineering principles, setting the stage for her later achievements. Her interests in the scientific application of food processing were further solidified during her postgraduate studies at Hunan Agricultural University, where she pursued a Master’s Degree in Agricultural Product Processing and Storage Engineering. Her thesis on starch gelatinization in rice noodles demonstrated her early interest in the interaction between food components and the broader implications of processing technology on food quality and shelf life.

Building on this foundation, she pursued a PhD in Postharvest Science and Technology from Hunan Agricultural University. During her doctoral research, Wenfeng focused on studying the inhibition mechanisms of Nε-carboxymethyllysine (CML) by fruit polyphenols in food, which offered important insights into improving the preservation and nutritional quality of horticultural products after harvest. This research not only added valuable knowledge to the field of postharvest technology but also deepened her understanding of how natural compounds can be utilized to enhance food safety and quality.

Professional Endeavors

After completing her PhD, Wenfeng’s professional career began to take shape through a variety of roles within the food science and technology sector. Her career path reflects a consistent progression from hands-on technical work to academic leadership. Wenfeng’s early career included a position as a production technician at Hunan Jinjian Rice Co., Ltd Vegetable Oil Branch in Changde, Hunan, where she was involved in equipment installation and testing product quality. This practical experience gave her a solid grounding in the technical aspects of food processing and the importance of equipment design and operational optimization in maintaining product quality.

Following this, Wenfeng worked as a physicochemical and microbiological inspector at Henan Tianbing Cold Drink Co., Ltd in Zhengzhou, Henan, where she was responsible for establishing laboratory procedures, setting up experimental equipment, and conducting microbiological tests. Her ability to apply scientific knowledge to real-world problems helped her hone her skills in quality control, further deepening her understanding of food science from both a theoretical and applied perspective. These positions played a crucial role in shaping her later academic pursuits, allowing her to connect theoretical research with practical applications.

In 2007, she transitioned into more academic-focused roles and earned the position of Associate Professor in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, where she continues to lead research projects and educate the next generation of food science professionals. Her work as an academician and researcher in Postharvest Science places her at the forefront of advancements in food preservation, offering innovative solutions to challenges in the agri-food industry.

Contributions and Research Focus

Wenfeng’s research is deeply rooted in the principles of food preservation and safety, with a focus on postharvest technology, particularly the role of polyphenols in inhibiting harmful compounds in food products. Her groundbreaking work on the inhibition mechanisms of Nε-carboxymethyllysine (CML), a harmful compound that forms during food processing, has contributed immensely to understanding how naturally occurring fruit polyphenols can mitigate food quality degradation. This work has profound implications for improving food safety, extending shelf life, and ensuring nutritional value.

Her continued research aims to develop novel methodologies to enhance the storage and processing of horticultural products. Wenfeng’s work in agricultural product processing and storage engineering is not just about extending shelf life but ensuring that the products maintain their nutritional and sensory qualities over time. She is also exploring natural antioxidants and their effects on food quality, aligning her research with sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in food processing.

Accolades and Recognition

Wenfeng’s significant contributions to food science and technology have earned her recognition both within and beyond the academic community. Her research has been widely cited and has influenced various industries, including the food processing and agriculture sectors. She is known for her dedication to integrating postharvest science with sustainable food practices, making her a sought-after expert in her field. Her work has not only contributed to academic knowledge but also provided solutions to practical challenges faced by food producers.

Impact and Influence

Wenfeng’s research has the potential to transform food processing industries globally, particularly in the areas of food safety, preservation, and quality assurance. By exploring the mechanisms of food degradation and the role of natural compounds, her work offers practical, cost-effective solutions to challenges in food quality management. Her research on postharvest technology not only addresses immediate concerns related to the storage and preservation of food but also has long-term implications for sustainability and food security. Her contributions help minimize food waste, reduce dependency on artificial preservatives, and ensure that more people around the world have access to safe, nutritious food.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Wenfeng Han’s research promises to further shape the landscape of postharvest science. Her ongoing efforts to study polyphenols and other natural antioxidants are positioning her as a leader in sustainable food practices. As the global demand for more sustainable and environmentally friendly food production techniques grows, Wenfeng’s research is more relevant than ever. Her work not only advances postharvest technology but also inspires new generations of food scientists to pursue innovative, sustainable solutions.

Through her future contributions, Wenfeng aims to bridge the gap between academic research and practical industry applications, working alongside international collaborators to address the evolving challenges of food preservation and sustainability. Her legacy will likely be one of innovation, sustainability, and contributions to global food security.

Notable publications 

Inhibition of carboxymethyllysine in walnut cookies via food additives

Author: Han, Wenfeng; Qiu, Po; Ge, Songtao; Wei, Taoying
Journal: Food Chemistry: X
Year: 2025

Prof Jinn P. Chu | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Jinn P. Chu | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taiwan 

Author Profile

Google Scholar 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Jinn P. Chu embarked on his academic journey with a profound interest in materials science and engineering, a field that combines the complexity of physics, chemistry, and engineering to develop advanced materials. He earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) between August 1988 and May 1992—one of the premier institutions for this discipline. His doctoral training at UIUC, surrounded by globally renowned researchers and access to cutting-edge laboratories, laid a solid foundation for a lifetime of scientific inquiry and innovation. This formative period not only shaped his technical acumen but also instilled in him a global outlook on research and its applications.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Chu’s professional trajectory is a testament to his dedication, vision, and leadership in both academic and administrative roles. He began his professorial career at the National Taiwan Ocean University in 1993, where he served for over a decade as Associate Professor, Professor, and eventually Chairman of the Institute of Materials Engineering. In 2007, he transitioned to the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (Taiwan Tech), where he would leave an indelible mark. Rising through the ranks, he became Professor, Distinguished Professor, and currently serves as a Chair Professor since 2022.

His administrative leadership is equally noteworthy. From 2018 to 2021, he served as Vice President of Taiwan Tech, guiding strategic planning and research development. He also held significant roles as Dean and Vice Dean of the Office of Research and Development, and Vice Dean of the College of Engineering. Additionally, Prof. Chu directed the Applied Research Center for Thin-Film Metallic Glass, a pivotal unit fostering innovation in advanced materials.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Jinn P. Chu has made pioneering contributions in the field of thin-film metallic glasses, nanostructured coatings, and advanced materials for medical, environmental, and industrial applications. His interdisciplinary research integrates materials science with engineering design to solve real-world challenges. His work on metallic glass nanotube arrays and nano-structured stainless-steel coatings is globally recognized, influencing the development of next-generation separation membranes and medical devices.

He is an inventor with over 50 patents, including breakthroughs such as thin-film metallic glass coated medical needles, tattoo needles, and diaphragms reinforced with metallic coatings. These innovations not only advance science but also demonstrate his commitment to translating lab results into practical tools that benefit society.

His scholarly impact is amplified by a number of high-impact publications in leading journals such as Nature Materials, npj Clean Water, and Materials Today. These papers have garnered significant citations, reflecting his work’s resonance with the global scientific community.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Chu’s illustrious career has been decorated with numerous national and international awards. He has been consistently ranked in the Top 2% of Scientists Worldwide (2021–2023) by Stanford University, acknowledging both his lifetime scientific impact and annual influence. Among his many accolades are the Outstanding Research Award from Taiwan’s Ministry of Science and Technology (2021), the Taipei Tech Distinguished Alumni Award (2021), and two-time National Innovation Awards in 2017 and 2019.

His ingenuity was also recognized globally when he received two silver medals at the Concours Lépine International in Paris in 2018 and an ACS Award at Japan Nano Tech the same year. These honors validate his international stature in materials innovation.

His service to the scientific community is equally commendable. He served as President of the Taiwan Association for Coatings and Thin Films Technology (TACT) and is currently Vice President of the Materials Research Society-Taiwan (MRS-T). His editorial work includes roles as Associate Editor of the AVS Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology, and Editorial Board Member of Thin Solid Films.

🌏 Impact and Influence

Jinn P. Chu has had an enormous influence on both academic research and industry collaboration. He has played key roles in major projects with international and national corporations, such as Foxlink Precision Industry, Dupont Taiwan, and Sino MG Technology, and has participated in EU research initiatives like the nanoCOOL project under FP7. His efforts have bridged the gap between fundamental research and industrial application, reinforcing the relevance of academic expertise in real-world innovation.

Moreover, his impact extends through his mentorship. As a professor and former administrator, he has shaped the careers of numerous students, postdocs, and junior researchers. His work ethic, integrity, and passion have left a lasting impression on Taiwan’s materials science landscape and beyond.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As he continues his tenure as a Chair Professor at Taiwan Tech, Prof. Chu remains a beacon of inspiration in his field. His legacy is built not only on his technical achievements but also on his role as a visionary leader, innovative researcher, and dedicated educator. Looking ahead, he is poised to expand his work on nanostructured functional coatings, sustainable materials, and biomedical applications, shaping the next chapter in materials engineering.

With his eyes firmly set on solving emerging global challenges—be it in healthcare, sustainability, or advanced manufacturing—Prof. Jinn P. Chu stands as a paragon of scientific excellence whose work will continue to influence generations of researchers and innovators. 🚀

Mechanisms of deodorizing rapeseed oil with ethanol steam at a low temperature: A focus on free fatty acids, tocopherols, and phytosterols

Authors: Dong, Yiyang; Liu, Fangrong; Li, Wenlin; Wang, Chengming
Journal: Food Chemistry
Year: 2025

 Bleaching of Idesia polycarpa Maxim. Oil Using a Metal-Organic Framework-Based Adsorbent: Kinetics and Adsorption Isotherms

Authors: Dong, Yiyang; Wang, Chengming; Liu, Fangrong; Niu, Aifeng
Journal: Foods
Year: 2025

Dr. Hongbang shao | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Hongbang shao | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Light Alloy Research Institute, Central South University, China

Profile

Scopus 

Early Academic Pursuits ✨

Hongbang Shao’s journey into the world of engineering and materials science began with a deep-rooted passion for understanding the fundamental properties of light alloys. From the early stages of his academic career, he displayed an innate curiosity about how metals could be manipulated at the microscopic level to achieve superior strength and performance. His academic pursuits culminated in earning a Doctor of Engineering degree, where he honed his expertise in alloy strengthening strategies and advanced manufacturing techniques. Throughout his formative years, he was actively involved in research projects that laid the foundation for his future work in industrial applications.

Professional Endeavors 💪

Currently serving as a lecturer at the Light Alloy Research Institute, Central South University, Hongbang Shao has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of material science. His research focuses on the development and manufacturing of high-performance thin-walled components, a critical area in aerospace and automotive industries. He has actively contributed to six major research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Key R&D Program of China, as well as industry-sponsored initiatives. These projects have played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, demonstrating the real-world impact of his work.

Contributions and Research Focus 📚

One of Shao’s significant contributions lies in the development of ultra-high strength Al-10.8Zn-2.6-Mg-Cu-Zr-Sc alloy rods, which have shown remarkable mechanical performance under various manufacturing conditions. By utilizing extrusion combined with aging, he meticulously studied the effects of extrusion ratios on the microstructural evolution, recrystallization behaviors, and texture characteristics of these alloys. His findings indicated that an extrusion ratio of 25 resulted in exceptional material properties, boasting a tensile strength of 836 MPa and a yield strength of 835 MPa. These groundbreaking results have been published in Materials Science and Engineering A, reflecting the significance of his research within the scientific community.

Beyond alloy development, his research delves into advanced manufacturing technologies, including strengthening and toughening mechanisms, microstructure characterization, and mechanical performance optimization. His expertise in these domains has led to 16 publications in renowned scientific journals, along with the authorization of two Chinese invention patents and an additional five patents in the pipeline. His work is not only academically rigorous but also practically viable, as it has been successfully implemented in industrial applications such as rocket cabins and automobile bodies.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Hongbang Shao’s research has garnered widespread recognition, positioning him as a leading figure in light alloy advancements. With a citation index of 7, his work continues to influence researchers and industry professionals alike. His technical achievement registration further underscores his commitment to innovation. While he has not yet been appointed to editorial boards or professional memberships, his growing body of work speaks volumes about his contributions to materials science. The application of his research findings in industrial manufacturing highlights his ability to bridge the gap between academia and industry, a feat that is often challenging in the field of engineering.

Impact and Influence ⚖️

The impact of Shao’s research extends far beyond the confines of academic journals. His work has contributed to the enhancement of material properties essential for aerospace and automotive applications, ensuring structural reliability and performance efficiency. By focusing on strengthening strategies for light alloys, he has played an instrumental role in advancing materials that are not only lightweight but also incredibly durable. His consultancy work in four industry-sponsored projects further illustrates his ability to translate scientific insights into tangible engineering solutions.

His commitment to scientific progress is also evident in his mentorship of students and researchers who aspire to delve into material science. Through his lectures and research guidance, he has nurtured the next generation of engineers, instilling in them a passion for discovering novel solutions in alloy technology.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

As Hongbang Shao continues to expand his research horizon, his future contributions are poised to leave a lasting impact on the field of light alloys and advanced manufacturing. With ongoing research projects and a strong foundation of industrial applications, he is set to further refine strengthening mechanisms and push the limits of high-performance materials. His future work may involve exploring novel alloy compositions, integrating smart manufacturing techniques, and developing eco-friendly production methods that align with sustainability goals.

His dedication to scientific exploration and his ability to seamlessly integrate theoretical advancements with industrial applications place him among the promising innovators in material science. By continuously striving for excellence, Hongbang Shao is paving the way for groundbreaking advancements that will shape the future of high-performance alloys, ultimately contributing to the evolution of aerospace and automotive industries.

📝Notable Publications

Effect of extrusion ratio on microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of ultra-high strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Zr-Sc alloy

Authors: Junhua Cheng, Hongbang Shao, Jinchuan Wen, Yukuan Huang, Yuanchun Huang
Journal: Materials Science and Engineering A
Year: 2025