Dr. Vladimir Ristanović | Performance Management | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Vladimir Ristanović | Performance Management | Research Excellence Award

Institute of European Studies | Serbia

Dr. Vladimir Ristanović is a senior research associate and economist whose work spans European studies, international economics, finance, and sustainable development. He holds a Doctor of Economic Sciences degree, along with MSc and BSc degrees in economics from leading universities in Serbia. His professional background includes extensive experience in academic teaching, research, and policy analysis, with previous roles as associate professor, vice dean for science, and head of academic departments. He also contributed to strategic policy development for the Government of Serbia, participating in EU and WTO negotiation working groups and gaining certified knowledge of the EU acquis. His research covers applied macroeconomics, green economy, circular economy, econometric modeling, and the economic dimensions of sustainability. He has authored textbooks, monographs, and numerous scientific articles published in reputable international journals. He has served on editorial and review boards of multiple journals and participated in Erasmus+ visiting programs and international conferences. His mentoring work includes guiding students across all levels of study and contributing to accreditation processes for higher education institutions. Recognized for his contributions to economic analysis and public policy, his career reflects a commitment to advancing evidence-based research, sustainable economic development, and academic excellence.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Ristanović, V., Joksimović, M., & Šostar, M. (2025). Greening policy in the Western Balkans: Financial pathways. Međunarodna politika. https://doi.org/10.18485/iipe_mp.2025.76.1194.7

Ristanović, V., & Tošović-Stevanović, A. (2025). The economic impact of the agricultural input supply chain on small-scale farming in Serbia. Trendovi u poslovanju. https://doi.org/10.5937/trendpos2501024R

Ristanović, V., Primorac, D., & Huđek Kanižaj, I. (2025). Economic growth, green competitiveness and institutional quality in post-2004 EU states: Panel ARDL-PMG analysis. Economies, 13(12), Article 337. https://doi.org/10.3390/economies13120337

Ristanović, V., Andrlić, B., & Ekiz, E. (2025). A multi-criteria assessment of green tourism potential in rural regions: The role of green skills and institutional readiness. Economies, 13(11), Article 332. https://doi.org/10.3390/economies13110332

Dr. Alassane Sow | Charismatic Leadership | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. Alassane Sow | Charismatic Leadership | Outstanding Scientist Award

Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar | Senegal

Dr. Alassane Sow is a sociologist of religion whose academic and professional journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding the intersections between religion, society, education, and development in West Africa. He holds a Doctorate and Master’s degree in the Sociology of Religion from UCAD, building on a strong foundation in social sciences. His experience spans university teaching, applied research, and interdisciplinary consultancy across institutions in Senegal, the United States, Europe, and Africa. Dr. Sow has served as a lecturer at UCAD and UGB and as an associate researcher at internationally recognized centers such as Lehigh University and the Polish Academy of Sciences. His extensive fieldwork includes studies on home literacy environments, religious dynamics, peacebuilding, early childhood education, public health, migration, gender, environmental and social impact assessments, and community development. He has collaborated with major organizations including UNICEF, USAID, the World Bank, UNESCO partners, and several ministerial bodies. His research interests focus on religion and society, education, childhood development, social inequalities, community resilience, and socio-anthropological approaches to public policy. Dr. Sow’s contributions have earned him recognition through diverse academic engagements, invited lectures, and participation in international conferences. He continues to advance socially impactful research bridging academia, policy, and community development.

Profiles: Featured Publications

Sow, A., Lemmond, B., Rennick, B., Van Wyk, J., Martin, L., Townsend, M., Grupe, A., Beaudry, R., Healy, R., Smith, M. E., et al. (2024). Tuber cumberlandense and T. canirevelatum, two new edible Tuber species from eastern North America discovered by truffle-hunting dogs. Mycologia.

Sow, A., Van Wyk, J., Lemmond, B., Healy, R., Smith, M. E., & Bonito, G. (2024). Effective field collection of Pezizales ascospores for procuring diverse fungal isolates. Diversity, 16(3), 165.

Chou, M.-Y., Andersen, T. B., Mechan Llontop, M. E., Beculheimer, N., Sow, A., Moreno, N., Shade, A., Hamberger, B., & Bonito, G. (2023). Terpenes modulate bacterial and fungal growth and sorghum rhizobiome communities. Microbiology Spectrum, 11(5), e01332-23.

Lemmond, B., Sow, A., Bonito, G., & Smith, M. E. (2023). Accidental cultivation of the European truffle Tuber brumale in North American truffle orchards. Mycorrhiza, 33, 451–458.