Mr. Zhiyuan Cheng | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Zhiyuan Cheng | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Sun Yat-Sen University, China

Profile 

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Zhiyuan Cheng’s academic journey began with his undergraduate studies in Preventive Medicine at Lanzhou University, where he laid the foundation for a distinguished career in public health. His keen interest in epidemiology and biostatistics was further developed during his Master of Public Health (MPH) program at Lanzhou University’s School of Public Health. Under the mentorship of Associate Professor Juansheng Li, Cheng honed his skills in epidemiology and biostatistics, setting the stage for his future research.

His dedication to advancing his knowledge led him to pursue a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at Lanzhou University’s School of Basic Medical Sciences. Under the guidance of Professor Kehu Yang, Cheng specialized in medical big data analysis, which would become a cornerstone of his research career. The analytical skills and research techniques he acquired during this period paved the way for his subsequent doctoral studies at Yale University. As a China Scholarship Council recipient, Cheng conducted groundbreaking research in Environmental Epidemiology, working closely with Associate Professor Yawei Zhang.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Upon completing his doctoral studies, Cheng embarked on a prolific career in public health and epidemiology. His postdoctoral work at Brown University’s School of Public Health, under Professor Tongzhang Zheng, focused on environmental epidemiology, where he furthered his expertise in big data analysis and its applications in health research. This period was marked by significant contributions to understanding the impact of environmental factors on health outcomes.

In September 2019, Cheng joined Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) as a President’s Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellow in Cardiovascular Epidemiology. His work at SUSTech, under the mentorship of Academician Dongfeng Gu, included leading a nested case-control study on multi-metal exposure-induced lung cancer and managing large-scale cohort studies. His role also involved extensive collaboration with Shenzhen Health Development Research and Data Management Center, where he constructed a comprehensive diabetes disease cohort database.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Zhiyuan Cheng’s research is characterized by a focus on environmental health, medical big data mining, and disease progression across multi-stage transitions. His work has made significant strides in understanding the interactions between environmental exposures and disease risks. Notable projects include:

  1. Multi-metal Exposure and Lung Cancer: Cheng led a study funded by the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, investigating the mechanisms by which multi-metal exposure contributes to lung cancer.
  2. COVID-19 Control Strategies: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cheng played a crucial role in analyzing data to inform control strategies for new variants of the virus in Shenzhen.
  3. Diabetes Cohort Database: He independently constructed a large-scale diabetes-specific cohort database, encompassing 1.47 million patients, which has been pivotal in analyzing health policies and treatment outcomes.
  4. National Institutes of Health Projects: Cheng contributed to several NIH-funded studies, including research on toxic metal exposure and its relationship with type 2 diabetes and testicular germ cell tumors.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Zhiyuan Cheng’s exceptional contributions to public health and epidemiology have been recognized through numerous awards and honors:

  • President’s Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship at Southern University of Science and Technology.
  • China Scholarship Council award for his joint Ph.D. program at Yale University.
  • Multiple scholarships and awards from Lanzhou University, including the “Excellent Student First-Class Scholarship” and “Scientific Research Innovation First-Class Scholarship.”
  • First prize in the Gansu Province “Challenge Cup” for his research on SCN5A gene mutations.

His work has also been featured in prestigious journals, including the Environmental Pollution, Science of the Total Environment, and European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. Cheng’s publications, with a cumulative impact factor of 57.8, reflect his significant contributions to the field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Zhiyuan Cheng’s research has had a profound impact on the fields of environmental health and epidemiology. His work on multi-metal exposure, diabetes, and COVID-19 has influenced public health policies and practices both in China and internationally. By managing and analyzing vast datasets, Cheng has provided valuable insights into disease progression and health outcomes, contributing to better understanding and mitigation of environmental health risks.

His role in constructing large-scale health databases and conducting high-impact research has set new standards in the field. Cheng’s contributions have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also informed practical strategies for disease prevention and control.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔭

Zhiyuan Cheng’s career is marked by a commitment to advancing public health through innovative research and data analysis. His legacy includes pioneering work in environmental health and big data mining, with a focus on understanding and addressing complex health challenges.

Looking ahead, Cheng aims to continue his research on environmental health and disease progression, with plans to expand his work on big data applications in health research. His future contributions are expected to further influence public health policies and practices, particularly in the areas of disease prevention and health promotion.

Through his ongoing research and dedication, Zhiyuan Cheng will continue to make significant strides in improving public health and shaping the future of epidemiological research.

Notable Publications

The Relationship between Nkx2.1 and DNA Oxidative Damage Repair in Nickel Smelting Workers: Jinchang Cohort Study

Authors: Zhiyuan Cheng, Ning Cheng, Dian Shi, Xiaoyu Ren, Ting Gan, Yana Bai, Kehu Yang

Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Year: 2019

Prof MeiChi Huang | Risk Management | Women Researcher Award

Published on by Leadership and Management

Prof MeiChi Huang | Risk Management | Women Researcher Award

National Taipei University, Taiwan

Profile 

Orcid 

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Mei-Chi Huang’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from National Taiwan University in 1997. Her early focus on finance laid the foundation for her later work in economics and business administration. She expanded her academic horizon by obtaining an MBA from California State University, Los Angeles, in 2005. This achievement marked a critical juncture in her career, providing her with the tools necessary to delve deeper into the complexities of economic systems. Her thirst for knowledge led her to the University of California, Riverside, where she earned her M.A. in Economics in 2007 and later her Ph.D. in Economics in December 2009. These degrees were pivotal in shaping her understanding of economic theories and their real-world applications.

Professional Endeavors 🏢

Following her extensive academic training, Dr. Huang embarked on a professional career that combined academia and government service. Her early professional experiences include roles at the Kaohsiung National Tax Administration and the Finance and Taxation Bureau in Taiwan. These positions provided her with practical insights into the workings of financial systems, particularly in public administration.

Dr. Huang’s academic career began in earnest at Yuan Ze University, where she served as an Assistant Professor from 2010 to 2012. In 2012, she joined National Taipei University as an Assistant Professor, where she quickly rose through the ranks to become an Associate Professor in 2014 and a full Professor by 2019. Her commitment to academia was further exemplified by her role as a Committee Member of the Bureau of Public Service Pension Fund, where she applied her expertise in finance and economics to influence public policy.

Contributions and Research Focus 📚

Dr. Huang’s research is primarily centered on housing markets, financial economics, and econometric modeling. Her work has consistently explored the intricacies of housing market dynamics, particularly in the context of risk factors and market volatility. A significant portion of her research has focused on the United States housing market, examining how monetary policies, market expectations, and economic crises influence housing prices and market stability.

One of her notable contributions is her exploration of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on MSA-level housing markets. This research, published in 2024 in Research in International Business and Finance, provided critical insights into the vulnerabilities and resilience of housing markets during global crises. Dr. Huang’s work on the predictive power of high-frequency housing prices, published in Macroeconomic Dynamics, further exemplifies her commitment to advancing the understanding of housing market behaviors through sophisticated econometric models.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Dr. Huang’s work has garnered significant recognition within the academic community. Her publications in prestigious journals such as International Journal of Finance and Economics, International Finance, and Managerial Finance highlight her role as a leading researcher in her field. Her ability to identify and analyze emerging risks in housing markets has positioned her as a critical voice in discussions on financial stability and economic forecasting.

Beyond her research, Dr. Huang has made substantial contributions as a journal reviewer. She has reviewed articles for numerous top-tier journals, including Applied Economics, Economic Modelling, Real Estate Economics, and International Review of Economics and Finance. Her role as a reviewer underscores her expertise and the respect she commands among her peers.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Huang’s research has had a profound impact on both academic scholarship and public policy. Her work on housing bubbles, market expectations, and the effects of monetary policies has provided valuable insights for economists, policymakers, and financial professionals. Her findings have implications not only for understanding past economic crises but also for developing strategies to mitigate future risks.

Her influence extends beyond her published work. As a professor at National Taipei University, Dr. Huang has mentored numerous students, guiding them in their academic and professional journeys. Her teaching and research have inspired a new generation of economists and finance professionals, ensuring that her contributions will continue to resonate in the field for years to come.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Dr. Mei-Chi Huang’s career is marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a dedication to improving our understanding of complex economic systems. Her legacy is one of academic excellence, practical application, and a commitment to public service. As she continues her research and teaching, there is no doubt that her future contributions will further enhance our understanding of housing markets and financial economics.

Looking ahead, Dr. Huang is likely to focus on the evolving challenges in global housing markets, particularly in the wake of unprecedented events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Her ability to adapt her research focus to address contemporary issues ensures that she will remain a vital figure in the field of economics. Her work will continue to influence how economists, policymakers, and financial institutions navigate the complexities of housing markets and economic stability in an increasingly interconnected world.

Publications 

 Time‐varying roles of housing risk factors in state‐level housing markets

Authors: Mei-Chi Huang
Journal: International Journal of Finance & Economics
Year: 2022
DOI: 10.1002/ijfe.2393

 Time‐varying impacts of expectations on housing markets across hot and cold phases

Authors: Mei-Chi Huang
Journal: International Finance
Year: 2022

Regime switches and permanent changes in impacts of housing risk factors on MSA‐level housing returns

Authors: Mei-Chi Huang
Journal: International Journal of Finance & Economics
Year: 2021
DOI: 10.1002/ijfe.1791

New sources of housing market risk: Asset pricing for the US state‐level housing markets

Authors: Mei-Chi Huang
Journal: International Finance
Year: 2020

Markov-switching impacts of housing-market expectations on credit markets

Authors: Mei-Chi Huang
Journal: Managerial Finance
Year: 2019

KAINAT IFTIKHAR-Risk Management-Young Scientist Award – 2658

Published on by Leadership and Management

Dr. KAINAT IFTIKHAR-Risk Management-Young Scientist Award 

Central University of Finance and Economics-China 

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

Kainat Iftikhar is a dedicated scholar with a strong background in economics and finance, specializing in sustainability and corporate finance. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor's in Commerce from the University of Sargodha, Pakistan, where she laid the foundation for her future studies. This early academic pursuit provided her with a solid understanding of fundamental economic concepts and analytical skills that would prove invaluable throughout her career.

Building upon her undergraduate studies, Kainat pursued higher education at Quaid-e-Azam University, Pakistan, where she completed her Master of Science in Economics. This program enhanced her knowledge in economic theory, research methodologies, and data analysis, preparing her for more advanced academic and professional endeavors.

Subsequently, Kainat pursued a Master of Philosophy in Economics from the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), further honing her research and analytical skills. This phase of her academic journey allowed her to delve deeper into economic theories, conduct independent research, and contribute meaningfully to the field of economics.

Professional Endeavors

Kainat's professional journey is characterized by a diverse range of experiences that have shaped her expertise in economics, finance, and research. Her roles as a Research Assistant and Teacher Assistant at Quaid-e-Azam University and the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics provided her with hands-on experience in academia, research methodology, and project management.

During her tenure at these institutions, Kainat actively contributed to various research projects, including those focused on corporate finance, risk management, green finance, and corporate governance. Her responsibilities included literature reviews, data collection, analysis, and the preparation of reports and presentations. These experiences not only strengthened her research skills but also equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics within the academic and professional realms of economics and finance.

Contributions and Research Focus

Kainat's contributions to the field of economics are reflected in her notable publications and research endeavors. Her research has explored critical areas such as litigation risk, corporate reputation, innovation, green finance, and ESG factors. Of particular significance are her publications in reputable journals like Borsa Istanbul Review, Sage Open, and the Pakistan Armed Forces Medical Journal, showcasing the breadth and depth of her expertise.

Her research focus on the role of corporate governance in mitigating litigation risk, navigating corporate reputation through green innovation, and analyzing the impact of trade policy uncertainty on sustainable development underscores her commitment to addressing contemporary economic challenges. Kainat's work not only contributes to academic discourse but also offers valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers in the finance and sustainability sectors.

Accolades and Recognition

Kainat's dedication and contributions have earned her recognition and accolades within the academic and professional communities. She was awarded the CSC Govt PhD Scholarship for International Human Resource Management, highlighting her academic excellence and potential for significant contributions to her field.

Moreover, her publications in prestigious journals and her active involvement in research projects demonstrate her standing as a respected scholar and researcher in the field of economics and finance.

Impact and Influence

Kainat's work has the potential for significant impact and influence in several key areas. Her research on corporate governance, risk management, and sustainability contributes to the development of best practices for businesses and financial institutions. By addressing crucial issues such as litigation risk, corporate reputation, and green innovation, Kainat's work has the potential to inform decision-making processes and contribute to more resilient and responsible economic systems.

In today's dynamic and uncertain business environment, risk management plays a crucial role in ensuring resilience and sustainability. Organizations that prioritize risk management are better equipped to navigate challenges, adapt to changing market conditions, and maintain stakeholder trust. By fostering a risk-aware culture and integrating risk management practices into their strategic planning processes, businesses can enhance their competitive advantage, drive innovation, and achieve long-term success.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Kainat's legacy lies in her commitment to advancing knowledge in economics and finance, particularly in areas related to sustainability and corporate governance. Her future contributions are likely to encompass continued research, publication of impactful studies, and active engagement with industry stakeholders and policymakers. Kainat's legacy will be defined by her dedication to creating positive change and driving sustainable economic development through rigorous research and thought leadership.

Risk management is a systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential risks that could affect an organization's objectives, projects, or operations. It involves a structured process of analyzing risks, evaluating their potential impact and likelihood, and implementing strategies to minimize or eliminate these risks. This may include financial risks, such as market fluctuations or credit defaults, operational risks like supply chain disruptions or technological failures, and strategic risks related to competition or regulatory changes. Effective risk management not only helps organizations protect against potential losses but also enables them to capitalize on opportunities and make informed decisions that align with their overall goals and values.

Notable Publications