Dr. Deniz Akdemir | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Deniz Akdemir | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

NMDP, United States

Author Profile

Google Scholar 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Deniz Akdemir’s journey into the world of data science and statistical genomics began with a strong academic foundation that combined both business acumen and analytical prowess. He earned his B.A. in Business Administration from the prestigious Middle East Technical University (METU) in Ankara, Turkey, in 1999. His growing interest in analytical modeling and decision-making led him to pursue a Master of Science in Statistics at METU, which he completed in 2003.

Building on this momentum, he continued his academic journey in the United States, obtaining both a Master of Arts in Applied Statistics (2004) and a Ph.D. in Statistics (2009) from Bowling Green State University. During his doctoral studies, Akdemir laid the groundwork for what would become a distinguished career in high-dimensional data analysis and computational biology. His academic training equipped him with a deep understanding of statistical theory while nurturing his talent for interdisciplinary research—a theme that would define much of his later work.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Akdemir’s professional trajectory is a blend of academia, industry, and applied research. Following the completion of his Ph.D., he held a Postdoctoral Research Associate position at University College Dublin from 2019 to 2021. During this time, he contributed to the advancement of statistical methodologies in genomic selection and experimental design.

He transitioned into the healthcare and clinical data landscape through his role at the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP). Initially joining as a Clinical Data Scientist in 2021, Akdemir’s exceptional performance and scientific insight led to his promotion as Senior Clinical Data Scientist in 2023. At NMDP, he applies cutting-edge statistical and machine learning techniques to optimize bone marrow transplant outcomes and improve patient care—a prime example of research translating into life-saving real-world impact.

In parallel, he founded and operates StatGen Consulting, a firm that provides expert consulting services in statistical genomics and machine learning. Through StatGen, he bridges the gap between theoretical development and industry application, fostering innovation across academia, agriculture, and clinical healthcare.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Deniz Akdemir is widely recognized for his pioneering contributions to statistical genomics, machine learning, and computational biology. His research revolves around developing statistical methodologies that address complex biological questions, particularly in the domains of genomic prediction, multi-trait modeling, genotype-by-environment interactions, and optimization of breeding programs.

His innovative software tools, such as TrainSel (R) and trainselpy (Python), have been instrumental in enhancing the selection of optimal training populations, improving predictive accuracy in genomic selection models. These tools are used by researchers and practitioners worldwide to streamline data-driven breeding and selection strategies.

With over 3,400 citations, 86 publications, and a growing international reputation, Akdemir’s work is a cornerstone in the statistical modeling of genomic data. His ability to integrate Bayesian methods, high-dimensional statistics, deep learning, and causal inference into biological frameworks has led to significant advances in both plant breeding and human health research.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

While not one to seek the spotlight, Deniz Akdemir’s work has earned considerable recognition within the scientific community. His Google Scholar citation count of over 3,400 reflects the widespread adoption and influence of his methodologies. Collaborations with prominent researchers such as Jean-Luc Jannink, Mark Sorrells, Jose Crossa, and Jessica Rutkoski have resulted in high-impact publications that drive global conversations in genetics and data science.

He is also widely respected for his collaborative spirit and leadership in large-scale research projects, and his work is often cited in discussions of best practices in genomic prediction and breeding program optimization.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Akdemir’s influence extends across disciplines and continents. His statistical tools are not confined to academic research—they have practical applications in agriculture, biotechnology, and clinical medicine. His contributions help shape crop resilience strategies in the face of climate change, and inform personalized treatment strategies in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Beyond the numbers, Akdemir is a mentor, educator, and thought leader. His ability to translate complex statistical theories into practical insights enables teams to make better decisions based on data. He regularly contributes to open-source communities, champions reproducible research, and supports collaborative networks across universities and institutes worldwide.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Deniz Akdemir is poised to further his impact in areas where statistical innovation intersects with biological complexity. His vision for the future includes expanding the use of machine learning algorithms in healthcare, continuing to develop statistical tools that enhance breeding program efficiency, and deepening his work on genomic prediction frameworks that can transform personalized medicine.

As he continues to build bridges between disciplines and create tools that shape the future of data-driven research, Dr. Akdemir’s legacy will be that of a visionary who brought clarity, precision, and real-world impact to some of the most complex challenges in science and healthcare.

Genomic Selection and Association Mapping in Rice (Oryza sativa): Effect of Trait Genetic Architecture, Training Population Composition, Marker Number and More

Authors: J. Spindel, H. Begum, D. Akdemir, P. Virk, B. Collard, E. Redona, G. Atlin, J.-L. Jannink, S. McCouch
Journal: PLoS Genetics
Year: 2015

 Integrating Environmental Covariates and Crop Modeling into the Genomic Selection Framework to Predict Genotype by Environment Interactions

Authors: N. Heslot, D. Akdemir, M.E. Sorrells, J.-L. Jannink
Journal: Theoretical and Applied Genetics
Year: 2014

Training Set Optimization under Population Structure in Genomic Selection

Authors: J. Isidro, J.-L. Jannink, D. Akdemir, J. Poland, N. Heslot, M.E. Sorrells
Journal: Theoretical and Applied Genetics
Year: 2015

 Genome-Wide Prediction Models That Incorporate de novo GWAS Are a Powerful New Tool for Tropical Rice Improvement

Authors: J.E. Spindel, H. Begum, D. Akdemir, B. Collard, E. Redoña, J.-L. Jannink, S. McCouch
Journal: Heredity
Year: 2016

 Squamous Cell and Adenosquamous Carcinomas of the Gallbladder: Clinicopathological Analysis of 34 Cases Identified in 606 Carcinomas

Authors: J.C. Roa, O. Tapia, A. Cakir, O. Basturk, N. Dursun, D. Akdemir, B. Saka, V. Bagci, I.O. Dursun, N. Adsay
Journal: Modern Pathology
Year: 2011

Prof ShaoHua Zhou | Innovative Leadership | Best Research Article Award

Prof ShaoHua Zhou | Innovative Leadership | Best Research Article Award

Zhongyuan University of Technology, China

Author Profile

Google Scholar 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Shaohua Zhou, born in December 1995, is a prodigious talent whose academic journey began with a strong foundation in engineering, eventually leading to the attainment of a Ph.D. in the field. From the earliest stages of his education, Dr. Zhou exhibited a profound interest in electronic systems, intelligent optimization, and RF circuit design. His curiosity for scientific challenges and his commitment to problem-solving quickly propelled him toward more specialized studies. He soon established a reputation for academic excellence, underpinned by his selection for prestigious programs such as the Polish National Academic Exchange Scholarship—an award limited to only ten recipients globally in 2019. This formative period laid the groundwork for his eventual ascent into complex research territories that marry artificial intelligence with the intricate design of radio-frequency (RF) integrated circuits.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

As a core research backbone in multiple high-level national projects—including the National Major Science and Technology Special Project, National Key R&D Program, National Foundation Commission Key Projects, and the JKW Innovation Special Zone Project—Dr. Zhou has firmly established himself as an indispensable figure in advanced engineering research. Over the last four years, his primary focus has centered on the behavioral modeling of RF power amplifiers (PAs), a field critical to the advancement of next-generation wireless communication systems. His methodology combines artificial intelligence with practical engineering, exemplified by innovations such as Particle Swarm Optimization-XGBoost-based modeling—a technique recognized among Wiley’s Top 10 Most Cited Papers in 2023. Through his involvement in more than ten major projects, he has developed a pragmatic yet innovative approach to technical challenges, applying AI solutions to real-world RF performance bottlenecks.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zhou’s publication record reflects the depth and relevance of his research. With 26 SCI-indexed papers where he serves as both first and sole corresponding author, he contributes significantly to scholarly discourse in his discipline. Notably, his work has appeared in highly respected journals like the International Journal of Numerical Modelling: Electronic Networks, Devices and Fields. One of his papers was distinguished by Advances in Engineering (AIE) as a Key Scientific Article, an honor reserved for just 1% of published works. Beyond academic publishing, his inventive spirit is evident in his substantial patent portfolio—55 international patents granted in the UK and US, 30 Chinese invention patents, and 12 software copyrights—a testimony to the practical applicability of his research.

He has also made regulatory and standards contributions, playing a vital role in the drafting and revision of two national/local technical metrology specifications. His efforts in this arena earned him the distinction of Excellent Drafter by the National Technical Committee for Radio Metrology in 2024. Furthermore, Dr. Zhou was entrusted with writing a chapter in an international English-language monograph, underscoring his growing stature as a thought leader.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Zhou’s academic brilliance and research excellence have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards. Among these are the First Prize from the China Instrumentation Society Scholarship, the First Prize of the Integrated Circuit Scholarship awarded by the Chinese Institute of Electronics, and the Baosteel Outstanding Student Scholarship. These recognitions highlight not only the quality of his research but also his influence as a young scholar within China’s technology and engineering ecosystem. Additionally, one of his research results was named among the Top Ten Research Advances in Semiconductors in 2024, demonstrating his broader impact on one of the most crucial high-tech sectors in the world.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Beyond individual accolades, Dr. Zhou’s influence extends into mentorship and academic leadership. He successfully supervised a student team that won second prize at the 19th National Intelligent Vehicle Competition for College Students, fostering innovation and excellence in the next generation of engineers. His global perspective, reinforced by international exposure and collaborative projects, enables him to bridge theory and application across geographical and disciplinary boundaries. His contributions are shaping not just academic thought but also the practical design and performance of integrated circuits vital to global communications infrastructure.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Shaohua Zhou is poised to continue making substantial contributions at the nexus of artificial intelligence, RF design, and semiconductor innovation. His work addresses some of the most pressing challenges in engineering today—such as miniaturization, energy efficiency, and intelligent design automation. His pioneering efforts in AI-based modeling are likely to play a pivotal role in the design of future wireless systems and smart devices.

With an enviable track record already behind him and a visionary outlook guiding his path, Dr. Zhou’s career is on a remarkable trajectory. His legacy will be one of intellectual rigor, technological innovation, and collaborative leadership, paving the way for smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable electronic systems.

Experimentally investigating the degradations of small-signal gain for a GaN class-AB dual-band power amplifier under high temperature and humidity conditions

Author: S. Zhou
Journal: AIP Advances
Year: 2020

BPNN-based behavioral modeling of the S-parameter variation characteristics of PAs with frequency at different temperatures

Authors: Z. He, S. Zhou
Journal: Micromachines
Year: 2022

 Experimentally investigating the performance degradations of the CMOS PA at different temperatures

Authors: Z. He, S. Zhou, M. Nie
Journal: AIP Advances
Year: 2021

Experimental investigation on the performance degradations of the GaN class-F power amplifier under humidity conditions

Author: S. Zhou
Journal: Semiconductor Science and Technology
Year: 2021

Particle swarm optimization‐XGBoost‐based modeling of radio‐frequency power amplifier under different temperatures

Authors: J. Wang, S. Zhou
Journal: International Journal of Numerical Modelling: Electronic Networks, Devices and Fields
Year: 2024

Prof Dr. Chengming Wang | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Chengming Wang | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Huazhong Agricultural University, China

Author Profile

Orchid 

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Chengming Wang’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in analytical chemistry, earning both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Wuhan University, China. His early studies in this field laid the groundwork for his methodical approach to food sciences and his future innovations in oils and fats processing. Following this, his academic curiosity led him abroad, where he pursued a Ph.D. in Material Engineering at Fukui University in Japan. His time in Japan was marked by intense academic training and cross-cultural scientific exchange, sharpening his research skills and instilling a global perspective in his work. Upon returning to China, he continued to deepen his expertise by completing a postdoctoral fellowship at Huazhong Agricultural University in the field of Food Science and Engineering. These formative years were not only academically enriching but pivotal in shaping the direction of his lifelong research ambitions.

🧪 Professional Endeavors and Research Focus

Throughout his distinguished career, Professor Wang has carved a niche in the area of oils and fats processing, with an exceptional focus on the comprehensive utilization of agricultural by-products. His research extends across an impressive range of topics, from the low-temperature ethanol steam deodorization of oils to the detection of illegal gutter oil. His work does not remain confined to theory—he has developed technologies for the physical, biological, and chemical removal of toxic elements from rapeseed meal and pioneered methods to create probiotic feed and high-value products from oilseed meals.

He has delved into developing efficient, green extraction technologies for by-products like phospholipids and phytosterols, ensuring that nothing goes to waste in the oil processing chain. His studies on cottonseed protein detoxification, tea seed saponin extraction, peanut beverages and protein functionalization, and Pistacia seed polyphenol applications demonstrate the breadth of his research vision. Moreover, he has made significant progress in biodiesel production from waste oil and agricultural residues, contributing to sustainable energy solutions.

This body of work stands not just as a scientific portfolio but as a roadmap to building a zero-waste, value-added agro-industrial ecosystem. With 119 published journal articles in international databases such as SCI and Scopus, 16 invention patents as the first inventor, and 2 published monographs, his scholarship has reached across academic and industrial spheres alike.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

While formal accolades have not been enumerated, Professor Wang’s impact speaks volumes. His citation index includes widely referenced works such as his study on Lactobacillus plantarum and Staphylococcus warneri in traditional fermented foods, which has received 36 citations. His publications on acrylamide detoxification and novel edible oil deodorization methods further attest to his relevance in cutting-edge food safety and processing research. His research outputs have not only advanced academic knowledge but also laid the foundation for practical applications in food technology and bioenergy.

The breadth of his funded projects reflects his research reputation both at home and abroad. He has led or contributed to projects supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the National Key R&D Program of China, and the Ministry of Education in Japan. These high-impact projects underscore the national and international trust placed in his scientific leadership.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Professor Wang’s influence goes beyond the confines of academia. His consultancy experience with seven projects and four industry collaborations signifies his role as a bridge between scientific theory and real-world application. These engagements have likely contributed to the commercialization and industrial scaling of his innovative processing technologies.

His work contributes meaningfully to several of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those addressing responsible consumption and production, clean energy, and zero hunger. Through bioconversion of oil residues and extraction of plant-based proteins, his research offers alternative sources of nutrition and energy, directly impacting both public health and environmental sustainability.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Chengming Wang’s legacy is being built on the pillars of scientific rigor, innovation, and social responsibility. He stands as a role model for how researchers can convert basic scientific knowledge into applied technology that benefits society at large. His commitment to improving the efficiency and safety of oil and fat processing, while simultaneously enhancing the value of agricultural by-products, ensures that his work will continue to resonate across multiple disciplines and industries.

Looking to the future, his focus on pilot-scale and industrialized applications of biodiesel and rapeseed-based products promises to strengthen the global movement toward sustainable agriculture and green energy. His research lab, his patents, and the many students and collaborators he continues to inspire will serve as enduring vessels of his intellectual legacy.

In sum, Professor Chengming Wang exemplifies the kind of academic whose work is not only deeply scholarly but also profoundly impactful, with real-world applications that touch upon health, industry, energy, and the environment. His continued efforts promise to illuminate new paths in food science and technology, benefitting both current and future generations. 🌟

📝Notable Publications

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

Authors: Dong, Y.; Wang, C.; Gao, Y.; Xu, J.; Ping, H.; Liu, F.; Niu, A.
Journal: Foods
Year: 2025

Mesophilic Argonaute-Based Single Polystyrene Sphere Aptamer Fluorescence Platform for the Multiplexed and Ultrasensitive Detection of Non-Nucleic Acid Targets

Authors: Lu, Y.; Wen, J.; Wang, C.; Wang, M.; Jiang, F.; Miao, L.; Xu, M.; Li, Y.; Chen, X.; Chen, Y.
Journal: Small
Year: 2024

Procyanidin A1 and its digestive products alleviate acrylamide-induced IPEC-J2 cell damage through regulating Keap1/Nrf2 pathway

Authors: Yan, F.; Lu, Q.; Wang, C.; Liu, R.
Journal: Food Science and Human Wellness
Year: 2024

Acrylamide in food: Occurrence, metabolism, molecular toxicity mechanism and detoxification by phytochemicals

Authors: Yan, F.; Wang, L.; Zhao, L.; Wang, C.; Lu, Q.; Liu, R.
Journal: Food and Chemical Toxicology
Year: 2023

Autocatalytic formed bamboo-like N-doped carbon nanotubes encapsulated with Co nanoparticles as highly efficient catalyst for activation of peroxymonosulfate toward degradation of tetracycline

Authors: Lu, Y.; Li, Y.-K.; Huang, C.; Chen, R.; Chen, Y.; Wang, C.
Journal: Reactive and Functional Polymers
Year: 2023

Dr. Nathaniel Dailey | Visionary Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nathaniel Dailey | Visionary Leadership | Best Researcher Award

The Mitre Corporation, United States

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits ✨

Dr. Nathaniel D. Dailey’s journey into the realm of national security, aerospace, and international affairs was built upon a strong academic foundation. His intellectual curiosity and passion for space governance led him to pursue an advanced education that would later shape his influential career. He earned a doctorate from the prestigious Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), an institution renowned for producing global leaders in policy and strategy. Additionally, he holds two master’s degrees, equipping him with multidisciplinary expertise in areas critical to the evolving space domain. His commitment to continued learning is further demonstrated by his certification in enterprise architecture from Carnegie Mellon University, a credential that complements his ability to integrate complex space systems and regulatory frameworks.

From an early stage, Dr. Dailey exhibited a keen interest in the intersections of technology, security, and governance. His academic pursuits were not merely theoretical; they were designed to bridge policy with practice, positioning him as a thought leader capable of shaping international space affairs. His education laid the groundwork for his extensive contributions to space policy, traffic management, and global space governance, forming the bedrock of his professional influence.

Professional Endeavors and Leadership 🌌

Dr. Dailey’s professional career spans over three decades, during which he has established himself as a crucial figure in the strategic development and integration of space programs. As the Chief Strategist for Space Program Development and Integration at The MITRE Corporation, he plays an instrumental role in uniting key stakeholders, including the United States Space Force (USSF), National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), NASA, the Office of Space Commerce, and the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (DHS CISA). His ability to harmonize defense, civil, and commercial efforts has strengthened the United States’ leadership in the global space arena.

His role at MITRE is multifaceted. Dr. Dailey architects and executes visionary strategies that ensure the sustainable use of space. He leads the internal research and development of critical space policies, including the forthcoming Orbital-Carrying Capacity Workshop in 2025, where he collaborates with esteemed experts such as Dr. Ruth Stilwell and Dr. Diane Howard. His research focuses on shaping sustainable Low Earth Orbit (LEO) policies that balance innovation with regulatory foresight.

Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Dr. Dailey is an active voice in international space governance. As the Co-Chair of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) Space Traffic Management Committee, he authors global frameworks that address orbital congestion and sustainability. His work has directly influenced regulatory bodies such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). His strategic vision extends to securing funding and partnerships, reinforcing multi-agency collaboration, and driving executive-level business development.

Contributions and Research Focus 💡

Dr. Dailey’s research contributions are integral to shaping the future of space utilization. His studies encompass space traffic management, orbital sustainability, and the formulation of strategic deterrence frameworks. At MITRE, he is the principal architect of the International Space Strategy and the Space Integrated Deterrence Framework, both of which have been critical to advancing U.S. interests in space diplomacy and security.

His research is not confined to policy alone; it extends to practical applications that influence industry stakeholders, including commercial satellite operators such as Starlink and NorthStar. His work in defining orbital congestion solutions has informed industry standards, ensuring that private sector innovations align with national and global security objectives.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Dailey’s expertise and strategic foresight have not gone unnoticed. He is frequently sought after by CEOs and high-ranking officials for his economic and strategic insights into space governance. His thought leadership has led to invitations to speak at international conferences, high-level government meetings, and academic forums where he discusses the intersection of policy, technology, and security in space.

His ability to translate complex aerospace challenges into actionable strategies has earned him recognition as a key player in global space diplomacy. Whether influencing regulatory policies or advising government agencies on deterrence measures, Dr. Dailey’s contributions are indispensable to the modern space domain.

Impact and Influence 🚀

The breadth of Dr. Dailey’s influence is vast. His frameworks for space traffic management have contributed to the formulation of international norms that ensure sustainable space operations. His role in integrating space deterrence strategies with diplomatic initiatives has strengthened the United States’ position in global space security. Moreover, his leadership in multi-agency collaborations has fostered robust public-private partnerships, ensuring that space remains accessible and beneficial for all.

His participation in the MITRE State Department FFRDC proposal further underscores his impact on shaping international space policies. By bridging governmental objectives with industry capabilities, he continues to advance strategic initiatives that define the future of space utilization.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Dr. Dailey’s legacy is one of strategic foresight, innovation, and international collaboration. His work in shaping space policy and regulatory frameworks will continue to influence decision-making processes for years to come. As space becomes increasingly commercialized and contested, his expertise in orbital sustainability, governance, and deterrence will remain essential.

Looking ahead, Dr. Dailey is poised to take on even greater executive opportunities that will allow him to further enhance space economic growth, refine regulatory approaches, and strengthen global partnerships. His unwavering commitment to the advancement of U.S. leadership in the global space domain ensures that his contributions will have a lasting impact on the future of space exploration and security.

As he continues to drive innovation and policy development, Dr. Nathaniel D. Dailey stands as a beacon of leadership in the ever-evolving landscape of space governance, ensuring that humanity’s reach into the cosmos is both sustainable and strategic.

📝Notable Publications

 Moon to Mars: Challenges and Strategic Frameworks for Space Traffic Management in Cislunar and Cismartian Environments

Authors: K. Anilkumar, B. Mukherjee, N. Bérend, C. Unfried, I. Urdampilleta
Journal: Acta Astronautica
Year: 2025