Assist. Prof. Dr. Neylan kaya | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Neylan kaya | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Akdeniz University | Turkey

Neylan Kaya is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Business at Akdeniz University, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences. She holds a PhD in Business Administration from Süleyman Demirel University, a master’s degree in Business Administration from Akdeniz University, and an undergraduate degree in Mathematics from Akdeniz University. Since 2018, she has been actively involved in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, delivering courses such as Operations Research, Managerial Decision Making, and Mathematics. Her academic experience is complemented by extensive jury memberships and participation in numerous national and international scientific conferences. Her research interests lie primarily in quantitative methods, efficiency and productivity analysis, multi-criteria decision-making techniques (such as DEA, VIKOR, TOPSIS, PROMETHEE, and MCDM), corporate governance, ESG practices, insurance and banking performance, and sustainability-related management studies. She has published widely in peer-reviewed international and national journals indexed in SCI-Expanded, SSCI, ESCI, and Scopus, as well as contributed chapters to academic books. Her scholarly work has gained recognition through high-impact journal publications and active involvement in reputable scientific congresses. Overall, her academic profile reflects a strong commitment to advancing evidence-based management research, fostering analytical thinking in higher education, and contributing to the development of quantitative and sustainability-oriented approaches in business and management sciences.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Kaya, N., & Atsan, N. (2025). How green transformational leadership influences employee green behavior: The mediating role of green intrinsic motivation. Journal of Environmental Management.

Kaya, N., Bozcuk, A. E., Tutcu, B., Terzioğlu, M., & Ünal Uyar, G. F. (2025). Evaluating ESG practices from the perspective of transparency and accountability through clustering analysis and MCDM methods. Sustainability.

Kaya, N. (2025). Sigorta şirketlerinin stokastik sınır analizi ile etkinliği: Bir meta analiz. Adıyaman Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü Dergisi.

Dr. Lixing Zheng | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Lixing Zheng | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Research Excellence Award

PowerChina Chongqing Engineering Co., Ltd | China

Dr. Lixing Zheng is a researcher specializing in hydrogen energy production, life cycle assessment (LCA) modeling, and low-carbon regional scenario analysis. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering from the South China University of Technology, followed by a PhD from the Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. His academic and professional journey has included extensive involvement in postdoctoral research at PowerChina Chongqing Engineering Co., Ltd., where he contributes to advancing sustainable energy systems. Dr. Zheng has authored influential works, including contributions to the Encyclopedia of China (3rd Edition) and several peer-reviewed publications on hydrogen production efficiency, hydrogen energy supply scenarios, hydrogen metallurgy, exergy efficiency, and the life-cycle impacts of renewable energy technologies. His research has supported key national and regional projects focused on energy transformation, carbon neutrality pathways, and industrial technology development. Dr. Zheng’s achievements have been recognized through honors such as the 2024 Outstanding Paper Award from the Journal of Engineering Thermophysics, the 2024 Global Top Ten Award for Commercialisation of Research Results by Engineers, and the Second Prize of the 2025 China Power Construction Group Science and Technology Award. His work continues to advance the scientific foundation for sustainable, low-carbon energy systems.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

Analysis of exergy flow and CCUS carbon reduction potential in coal gasification hydrogen production technology in China. Energies.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yu Zhao | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yu Zhao | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Research Excellence Award

Shenyang Jianzhu University | China

Zhao Yu is an accomplished scholar in management science and engineering with a strong academic foundation, holding a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, a master’s degree in management science and engineering, and a Ph.D. from Chongqing University. With professional experience spanning academia and government research, he has served as a lecturer, associate professor, and policy research section chief, contributing significantly to both theoretical and practical aspects of sustainable development. His research focuses on emergy analysis, carbon emissions, construction sustainability, green building, urban metabolism, zero-waste city governance, supply-chain carbon measurement, and real estate mass appraisal. He has published 18 SCI/SSCI papers as first author, including multiple articles in top-tier CAS Zone 1 journals, and has led more than 2 million RMB in funded research projects, including prestigious Ministry of Education and provincial social science grants. His work has advanced carbon reduction strategies, emergy-based sustainability evaluations, and digital governance in the construction sector. He has also guided students to achieve national awards, reflecting his commitment to talent cultivation and academic excellence. Overall, his contributions demonstrate impactful leadership in advancing sustainable construction, ecological governance, and innovative urban development pathways for regional and national progress.

Profile:  ORCID 

Featured Publications

Zhao, Y. (2025). Assessing recycled concrete’s sustainability with emergy theory and input–output modeling. Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers – Engineering Sustainability.

Zhao, Y. (2025). Coupling system dynamics with emergy analysis to achieve China’s zero-waste city goals: A metabolic perspective. Journal of Cleaner Production.

Zhao, Y. (2025). Efficient project management of historical building groups: A BIM-based approach with the critical chain method and 5D simulation. International Journal of Construction Management.

Zhao, Y. (2025). Flow shop scheduling for prefabricated components production considering parallel machines and buffer constraints. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management.

Zhao, Y. (2025). Enhancing real estate mass appraisal in Type II metropolitan cities: A GIS-MGWR approach. International Journal of Strategic Property Management.

Prof. Hossein Shahbani Zahiri | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Hossein Shahbani Zahiri | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology | Iran

Profile:  Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Abbasi, H., Hamedi, M. M., Lotfabad, T. B., Zahiri, H. S., Sharafi, H., Masoomi, F., … & Noghabi, K. A. (2012). Biosurfactant-producing bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa MA01 isolated from spoiled apples: Physicochemical and structural characteristics of isolated biosurfactant. Journal of Bioscience and Bioengineering.

Lotfabad, T. B., Abassi, H., Ahmadkhaniha, R., Roostaazad, R., Masoomi, F., Zahiri, H. S., … & Noghabi, K. A. (2010). Structural characterization of a rhamnolipid-type biosurfactant produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa MR01: Enhancement of di-rhamnolipid proportion using gamma irradiation. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces.

Ebadi, M., Zolfaghari, M. R., Aghaei, S. S., Zargar, M., Shafiei, M., Zahiri, H. S., … & Noghabi, K. A. (2019). A bio-inspired strategy for the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using the cell extract of cyanobacterium Nostoc sp. EA03: From biological function to toxicity assessment. RSC Advances.

Shourian, M., Noghabi, K. A., Zahiri, H. S., Bagheri, T., Karbalaei, R., Mollaei, M., … & Raheb, J. (2009). Efficient phenol degradation by a newly characterized Pseudomonas sp. SA01 isolated from pharmaceutical wastewaters. Desalination.

Safaei, M., Maleki, H., Soleimanpour, H., Norouzy, A., Zahiri, H. S., Vali, H., … & Noghabi, K. A. (2019). Development of a novel method for the purification of C-phycocyanin pigment from a local cyanobacterial strain Limnothrix sp. NS01 and evaluation of its biological activities. Scientific Reports.

Mr. Junsik Cho | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Junsik Cho | Transformational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Korea Airports Corporation (KAC) | South Korea

Profile:  Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Lee, S. J., Kim, T. Y., Cho, J. S., Kim, J. S., & Yun, H. S. (2025). Hybrid hydropower–PV with mining flexibility and heat recovery: Article 6-ready mitigation pathways in Central Asia. Sustainability, 17(21), 9488.

Cho, J., & Lee, S. (2025). Feasibility analysis of EMAS application on steep-sloped runway ends: A case study of the Daegu–Gyeongbuk integrated airport. Journal of the Korean Society of Civil Engineers, 73(7), 40–49.

Cho, J., Son, J., Jeong, W., & Lim, C. (2023). A study on airport accessibility indices. Journal of the Korean Society of Civil Engineers, 71(3), 54–60.

Lim, C., Cho, J., Jeong, W., Kim, U., & Park, J. (2022). Recommendations for bridge installation within airport areas. Journal of the Korean Society of Road Engineers, 24(4), 15–20.

Cho, J. (2021). Considerations for selecting new airport development areas from the airport operator’s perspective: Why should as much surrounding area as possible be incorporated? Journal of the Korean Society of Civil Engineers, 69(10), 66–71.

Cho, J., & Lim, C. (2021). Recommendations for introducing domestic runway arresting systems considering the current status of aircraft braking devices. Journal of the Korean Society of Civil Engineers, 69(2), 42–47.

Mr. Joel Mubiru | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Excellence in Leadership and Management Award

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Mr. Joel Mubiru | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Excellence in Leadership and Management Award

 

University of Birmingham | United Kingdom

Dr. Mubiru Joel is an accomplished civil engineer and academic with over a decade of experience in road safety engineering, transport planning, and construction management. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering in the United Kingdom, his research focuses on quantifying the risk impact of contextual factors on pedestrian crash outcomes in data-scarce developing country settings. He holds an MSc in Infrastructure Planning from Universität Stuttgart, Germany, and a BEng in Civil and Building Engineering from Kyambogo University, Uganda. Throughout his career, he has contributed to major infrastructure projects across urban and rural areas, specializing in road safety audits, transport planning, and project supervision. As an Assistant Lecturer at Kyambogo University, he supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, emphasizing sustainable infrastructure and traffic safety innovations. His technical proficiency spans AutoCAD, ArcGIS, and MS Project, complemented by strong leadership in construction site management and health and safety compliance. With a record of excellence in both academia and professional practice, Dr. Mubiru’s work bridges engineering research and field implementation, aiming to enhance pedestrian safety and transport efficiency in developing regions. His ongoing research and international collaborations continue to advance sustainable mobility and infrastructure resilience.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

Mubiru, J., & Evdorides, H. (2025, October 22). Quantifying the risk impact of contextual factors on pedestrian crash outcomes in data-scarce developing country settings. Future Transportation, 5(4), Article 151.

Prof. Dr. Xiaoyun Sun | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Xiaoyun Sun | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award | 3972

North China Institute of Aerospace Engineering | China

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Professor Sun Xiaoyun laid a strong academic foundation in the field of electrical and electronic engineering through a rigorous pursuit of knowledge and research excellence. From the early stages of his academic career, he displayed a keen interest in engineering applications that integrate theoretical understanding with practical problem-solving. His formative years were marked by a focus on developing competencies in electronic systems, communication technologies, and intelligent control mechanisms. This period of academic immersion helped him gain a comprehensive understanding of complex engineering principles while nurturing a passion for innovative applications in energy systems, transportation, and information processing. His early dedication to systematic research and inquiry established the groundwork for a professional journey defined by leadership and innovation in engineering sciences.

Professional Endeavors

Professor Sun Xiaoyun’s professional career has been closely aligned with the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, an institution renowned for its research infrastructure and teaching excellence. Within this setting, he has contributed significantly to the development and expansion of advanced experimental and teaching platforms. The school’s Electronic Engineering Experimental Center, recognized as one of the first “Hebei Provincial Experimental Teaching Demonstration Centers,” stands as a testament to his efforts in fostering applied learning. Beyond academic training, Professor Sun has actively collaborated with industry leaders and research institutes, promoting interdisciplinary engagement and technological advancement. His leadership has enabled partnerships with state-owned enterprises, private companies, and military-affiliated institutions, resulting in research outputs that directly address the evolving needs of modern society.

Contributions and Research Focus

The core of Professor Sun Xiaoyun’s contributions lies in his innovative research focus, which spans intelligent fusion technology, transportation systems, power grid operations, and electromagnetic environmental effects. His work has been instrumental in building research platforms such as the “Urban Rail Transit Communication and Traffic Control Laboratory,” jointly established with the 54th Research Institute of China Electronics Technology Group Corporation. By guiding the establishment of key provincial centers, including those specializing in distributed energy application, urban power grid intelligent maintenance, and rail transit signal equipment, Professor Sun has driven forward the application of cutting-edge technologies in practical environments. His research on information processing and electromagnetic environmental effects, in collaboration with military and engineering institutions, has further expanded the scope of his academic influence, addressing both civilian and defense-related challenges.

Accolades and Recognition

Professor Sun Xiaoyun’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the recognition his school and research group have earned through provincial-level honors and institutional awards. The designation of the Electronic Engineering Experimental Center as a Hebei Provincial Experimental Teaching Demonstration Center reflects both his commitment to educational excellence and his ability to align academic research with provincial priorities. Likewise, the establishment of multiple innovation centers under his guidance signifies the confidence of government bodies and corporate stakeholders in his vision and expertise. These accolades underscore his status as a respected academic leader and a figure whose work continues to raise the profile of Hebei’s engineering research on national and regional stages.

Impact and Influence

The influence of Professor Sun Xiaoyun’s work extends beyond research outcomes into the broader spheres of education, technological advancement, and industry collaboration. His leadership in creating innovative research platforms has enhanced knowledge transfer between academia and industry, ensuring that theoretical insights are transformed into practical solutions. Through his contributions, advancements have been made in transportation safety, smart grid operations, and electromagnetic compatibility, all of which have a direct impact on societal development and technological resilience. Furthermore, his mentorship of students and researchers nurtures a new generation of engineers who carry forward his ethos of combining innovation with responsibility, thus magnifying his long-term influence.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Professor Sun Xiaoyun’s legacy is defined by his ability to create lasting academic and industrial partnerships, build pioneering research platforms, and foster technological solutions that address both present and future challenges. His focus on intelligent fusion technologies and energy systems positions him at the forefront of addressing critical issues such as sustainable urban development, efficient energy use, and safe transportation networks. As he continues to contribute to new initiatives and expand the horizons of engineering research, his work promises to leave an enduring impact on both the academic community and society at large. The foundations he has built ensure that his contributions will continue to inspire innovation, elevate research standards, and guide future advancements in electrical and electronic engineering.

Notable Publications

 Cost-effective and real-time landslide monitoring method based on ultra-wideband using ultra-wideband transformer neural network

Author(s): [Not shown in preview]
Journal: Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence
Year: 2025

 Extracting optimal features from switch current curve using random forest

Author(s): [Not shown in preview]
Journal: Conference Paper
Year: [Not specified in preview]

 Analysis on the Growth Mechanism of Electrical Treeing in Transmission Cables

Author(s): [Not shown in preview]
Journal: IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation
Year: 2025

Advancing infrared and visible image fusion with an enhanced multiscale encoder and attention-based networks

Author(s): [Not shown in preview]
Journal: iScience
Year: 2024

Slope displacement prediction based on multisource domain transfer learning for insufficient sample data

Author(s): [Not shown in preview]
Journal: Applied Geophysics
Year: 2024

Conclusion

In sum, Professor Sun Xiaoyun’s journey reflects a harmonious blend of academic dedication, professional leadership, and research innovation. From his early academic pursuits to his present-day role in shaping provincial and national research platforms, he has demonstrated a rare ability to bridge theory with practice. His recognition through accolades and the sustained impact of his contributions highlight not only his achievements but also his vision for the future. As his legacy continues to evolve, Professor Sun remains a driving force in advancing the frontiers of electrical and electronic engineering, ensuring his influence resonates across generations of scholars, practitioners, and society as a whole.

Prof. Wujun Sun | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Wujun Sun | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Nanjing University | PR China | China

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Professor Sun Wujun’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in mathematics, a discipline that nurtured his analytical reasoning and problem-solving abilities. He pursued his doctoral studies in Applied Mathematics at the prestigious Shanghai Jiao Tong University, one of China’s leading institutions for science and engineering. During this period, he honed his expertise in quantitative methods, probability theory, and advanced modeling techniques, which later became essential tools in his transition into the domain of finance. His early academic pursuits were marked by a deep curiosity about the intersection of mathematical theories and real-world financial applications, positioning him to bridge the gap between abstract concepts and practical financial problem-solving. This rigorous mathematical training laid the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to exploring complex issues in financial markets and risk management.

Professional Endeavors

Following his academic preparation, Professor Sun embarked on a career in higher education and research, where he has made a significant impact as a faculty member at the School of Business, Nanjing University. In this role, he has been responsible not only for advancing scholarship in finance but also for mentoring and inspiring a new generation of students. His teaching integrates theoretical knowledge with practical financial insights, equipping students with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of global finance. Over the years, he has cultivated a reputation as a dedicated educator and researcher who contributes meaningfully to both academic inquiry and applied finance. His professional endeavors extend beyond the classroom, as he actively engages in research collaborations, academic forums, and professional networks to advance the discourse in financial studies.

Contributions and Research Focus

Professor Sun’s research contributions span a wide range of topics central to contemporary financial studies. His primary areas of focus include financial risk management, digital finance, household finance, and actuarial pricing. In financial risk management, he has explored models and strategies for identifying, quantifying, and mitigating risks that arise from uncertainties in markets. His work in digital finance examines how technology is reshaping financial services, with a particular emphasis on inclusivity, security, and efficiency. By analyzing household finance, he investigates the financial decision-making processes of individuals and families, shedding light on savings behavior, investment choices, and consumption patterns. His expertise in actuarial pricing and risk management further reflects his ability to apply quantitative methods to insurance and related financial services, contributing to more precise and equitable pricing models. Collectively, these contributions underscore his role in shaping both academic literature and practical approaches to managing financial systems.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Professor Sun has earned recognition for his scholarly excellence and professional contributions. His research output has been published in respected academic journals, where his studies are frequently cited by peers, indicating the impact of his work within the finance research community. Additionally, he has been invited to deliver lectures and participate in conferences, a testament to his standing as an authority in his field. His achievements also reflect the broader acknowledgment of his ability to merge theory with practice, providing innovative perspectives on pressing financial issues. Such accolades are not only markers of his personal success but also highlight the value of his work in advancing the discipline of finance.

Impact and Influence

The influence of Professor Sun extends across multiple dimensions of academia and society. As a teacher, he has guided students to develop a solid understanding of financial theories while encouraging them to think critically about their application in real-world contexts. As a researcher, his contributions inform policymakers, industry practitioners, and fellow academics in their efforts to design more resilient financial systems. His insights into digital finance, for example, support ongoing transformations in how people access financial services, particularly in emerging economies. Similarly, his research on household finance provides evidence-based recommendations for improving financial literacy and decision-making among individuals, ultimately contributing to more stable and prosperous societies. His influence lies not only in the dissemination of knowledge but also in the tangible improvements that his work inspires in financial practices.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Professor Sun’s legacy will be defined by his unwavering commitment to advancing financial research and education. His ability to integrate mathematical precision with financial innovation ensures that his work will remain relevant in addressing the evolving challenges of global markets. Future contributions are likely to focus on emerging areas such as fintech, artificial intelligence in finance, and sustainable risk management, fields where his expertise can provide groundbreaking insights. As he continues to publish, mentor, and participate in academic discourse, his legacy will be further strengthened by the students he trains and the scholars he inspires. His future endeavors promise to extend his impact, reinforcing his role as a thought leader and innovator in finance.

Notable Publications

Can management tone predict IPO performance? – Evidence from mandatory online roadshows in China

Author(s): Shibo Bian; Dekui Jia; Ruihai Li; Wujun Sun; Zhipeng Yan; Yingfei Zheng

Journal: Pacific-Basin Finance Journal

Year: 2021

Conclusion

In summary, Professor Sun Wujun exemplifies the blend of academic rigor, professional dedication, and research excellence that defines a distinguished scholar. From his early immersion in mathematics to his current role as a leading finance professor, he has consistently advanced knowledge and practice in his field. His research spans critical areas of finance, his teaching shapes the next generation of financial leaders, and his influence reaches far beyond the university setting. Recognized for his contributions, he continues to push the boundaries of financial scholarship, ensuring that his work remains both relevant and transformative. The trajectory of his career highlights not only his past achievements but also his enduring potential to make meaningful contributions to finance in the years ahead.

Dr. Gina Ioan | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Gina Ioan | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Dunarea de Jos University, Romania

Author Profile

ORCID

Early Academic Pursuits: Foundations in Macroeconomic Thought

From the onset of her academic journey, Dr. Gina Ioan displayed a deep intellectual curiosity in the field of economics. Her early education laid the groundwork for a focused inquiry into the structural and policy-driven aspects of national and international economic systems. As a committed student with a proclivity for analytical thinking, she pursued advanced studies culminating in a Ph.D. in Economics, with a specialization in Macroeconomics. During her doctoral years, she immersed herself in complex economic modeling, fiscal policy frameworks, and global development trends, with particular attention to the dynamics of macroeconomic stability.

Her academic rigor was not limited to theoretical knowledge. She was also involved in empirical research that investigated the socioeconomic conditions of Eastern Europe in the post-transition period. This formative stage of her academic development gave rise to her long-term commitment to understanding how macro-level decisions affect individual lives, regional growth, and long-term sustainability. Her scholarly discipline and determination became apparent during this period, earning her the respect of peers and faculty alike.

Professional Endeavors: A Lecturer Shaping Future Economists

As a Lecturer at the “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Dr. Ioan embraced academia not only as a researcher but also as a passionate educator. Her role within the university involves teaching foundational and advanced macroeconomics courses, where she is known for her clear explanations and thought-provoking discussions. She has mentored undergraduate and postgraduate students alike, guiding many of them in research projects that reflect real-world economic challenges.

In addition to classroom instruction, she actively participates in faculty initiatives, curriculum development, and interdisciplinary academic collaborations. Her dynamic involvement in academia extends to supervising dissertations and fostering critical thinking among students. Her ability to bridge theory and practice has made her a sought-after academic voice within the faculty of economics, and her students consistently acknowledge her mentorship as a defining part of their academic growth.

Contributions and Research Focus: Sustainability, Gender, and Growth

Dr. Gina Ioan’s research output is marked by depth, diversity, and relevance. Her work spans a spectrum of pressing issues in contemporary economics, including macroeconomic policy tools, sustainable development, circular economy models, and the nuanced intersections of inequality and gender economics. Through these thematic pillars, she has contributed to a richer understanding of how economies evolve under stress, adapt to ecological challenges, and reform to achieve inclusive growth.

One of her significant contributions lies in the exploration of macroeconomic stability in post-transition economies, where she evaluates the effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policy mechanisms. Her scholarship has highlighted the importance of policy coherence in promoting both economic resilience and social equity.

Another major strand of her research is dedicated to the circular economy—an increasingly vital paradigm in addressing climate change and sustainability. Through empirical studies and policy analyses, she advocates for integrating circular economy principles into national and regional economic strategies. Additionally, her investigations into gender economics provide a much-needed lens on how macroeconomic policies disproportionately affect women, and how gender inclusion can enhance economic performance at large.

Accolades and Recognition: A Respected Voice in Economic Circles

Dr. Ioan’s academic contributions have not gone unnoticed. Her published research appears in respected journals, and her work is cited across multiple domains, indicating her scholarly influence beyond macroeconomics into social policy and environmental economics. Her participation in national and international conferences has earned her recognition as a forward-thinking economist capable of offering nuanced perspectives on both traditional and emerging economic issues.

She has also been invited to contribute to policy discussions, academic panels, and collaborative research projects, often serving as a bridge between academic theory and policy implementation. Her active profile on platforms like ORCID and Google Scholar reflects the growing reach of her work, both in Romania and internationally.

Impact and Influence: Bridging Policy, People, and Planet

Perhaps one of Dr. Ioan’s most enduring impacts is her ability to contextualize macroeconomic trends within societal and ecological frameworks. She emphasizes that economic growth cannot be considered in isolation from social well-being or environmental limits. This systems-oriented thinking is reflected in her work on sustainable development indicators, the adoption of circular economic principles, and the intersectional analysis of inequality.

Her influence also manifests in her pedagogical approach, where she instills in students a sense of responsibility to view economics not merely as numbers and charts, but as a tool for societal transformation. Through her lectures, publications, and public engagement, she champions a vision of economics that is inclusive, adaptive, and future-focused.

Legacy and Future Contributions: Toward a More Equitable Economy

Looking ahead, Dr. Gina Ioan is poised to continue shaping the discourse on sustainable economic development. Her ongoing research aims to refine the policy mechanisms that support green transitions, reduce inequality, and foster economic resilience in the face of global uncertainties such as climate change, geopolitical shifts, and technological disruption.

She is also likely to take on expanded roles in policy advising, institutional reform, and international research partnerships, given her proven expertise and collaborative spirit. With her sharp intellect, ethical commitment, and visionary approach, Dr. Ioan’s legacy will be one of rigorous scholarship in service of both people and the planet.

Her work serves as a guiding light for future economists who are not only skilled in analysis but also committed to using that skill for meaningful impact.

Notable Publications

The Green Dilemma: Energy Efficiency, Renewables and Economic Challenges in Eastern Europe

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Energy Policy
Year: 2025

The Effects of Foreign Direct Investments on Wage Trends in the Dutch Labor Market

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Economies
Year: 2025

 The Effects of Foreign Direct Investments on Wage Trends in the Dutch Labor Market

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Preprints
Year: 2024

 Gender-Specific Implications of Foreign Direct Investments on Wage Dynamics in Croatia: A Comprehensive Management Perspective

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Administrative Sciences
Year: 2024

 Assessing Economic Development and Quality of Life: A Management Perspective on Romania and the Republic of Moldova

Author: Gina Ioan
Journal: Sustainability
Year: 2024

Assist Prof Dr. Kaan Koçali | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award | 3938

Published on by Leadership and Management

Assist Prof Dr. Kaan Koçali | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul Gelisim University, Turkey

Author Profile

Scopus 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Asst. Prof. Kaan Koçali began his academic journey with a strong foundation in engineering, completing his undergraduate degree in Mining Engineering at İstanbul University-Cerrahpaşa between 2007 and 2011. His passion for applied sciences and industrial safety led him to pursue further studies in related fields. He earned a postgraduate degree in Mining Engineering at the same institution while also simultaneously expanding his expertise in Occupational Health and Safety at Istanbul Aydin University.

Driven by a commitment to continuous learning, Dr. Koçali pursued interdisciplinary postgraduate studies in Occupational Health and Safety and later earned a Ph.D. from Istanbul Aydin University, focusing on health and safety within the mining industry. His doctoral research dealt with a legal and systemic analysis of supervisory roles in mining operations, underscoring his dedication to enhancing workplace safety. Remarkably, he also undertook another undergraduate program in Entrepreneurship at Istanbul Kültür University, highlighting his multifaceted academic interest in combining business acumen with technical expertise.

🛠️ Professional Endeavors

Professionally, Asst. Prof. Koçali has established himself as a respected academic and practitioner in occupational health, safety engineering, and risk management. Since 2021, he has held a faculty position at Istanbul Gelişim Vocational School, where he continues to teach and mentor the next generation of safety professionals and engineers.

His professional development is bolstered by a rich array of certifications and trainings spanning over a decade. These include high-level credentials in ISO management systems (14001, 45001, 9001, and 22000), fire safety, workplace health risk management, project writing, and safety auditing. His association with international institutions such as NEBOSH and IOSH further enhances his global perspective and professional standing.

From his early roles in technical inspection and risk assessment to training in drone operation and demolition techniques, Koçali’s career is a blend of theoretical depth and field-level expertise. This unique combination positions him as both a scholar and a practitioner in the safety domain.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Asst. Prof. Koçali’s research spans several domains, primarily focusing on occupational health and safety, ergonomics, social security systems, and workforce efficiency. His academic investigations have addressed systemic gaps in legal compliance, safety culture, and risk assessment in high-risk industries such as mining.

In his 2021 doctoral dissertation, he designed a software-based tracking and control system to streamline legal obligations of mine safety supervisors in accordance with Turkish laws (3213 and 6331). His earlier postgraduate thesis evaluated the safety culture in mining using worker surveys—showcasing a data-driven approach to safety enhancement. Another research effort explored the impact of boron compounds on solar panel performance, demonstrating his ability to bridge environmental concerns with engineering innovations.

Through his academic output and structured training modules, he has contributed significantly to the development of professional standards in occupational safety, particularly in Turkey’s industrial landscape.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Koçali’s professional excellence is reflected in his extensive list of certifications, many of which are awarded by internationally recognized bodies. These accolades validate his authority in occupational health and safety, from entry-level training to elite auditor qualifications.

His roles as certified lead auditor, NEBOSH safety trainer, and ISO standards expert have not only earned him professional credibility but have also made him a sought-after educator and consultant in both academic and industrial circles.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Asst. Prof. Koçali’s work has had tangible influence in shaping both academic programs and safety protocols across multiple sectors. Through his teaching at Istanbul Gelişim University and his participation in professional associations like TMMOB, he has mentored numerous students and professionals in navigating occupational risks.

He has been instrumental in fostering a safety-first culture in Turkish workplaces by aligning engineering practices with international safety standards. His cross-disciplinary knowledge allows him to address challenges from both managerial and technical perspectives, making his impact deeply felt in policy, training, and operations.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Koçali aims to continue contributing to policy development, legal compliance systems, and safety education. His entrepreneurial education suggests a desire to integrate innovation and startup culture into occupational safety solutions.

With ongoing research, academic supervision, and curriculum development, his legacy will likely include creating a generation of safety-conscious engineers and managers. His work reflects a balance between technological advancement and human-centered design, ensuring sustainable and ethical progress in occupational environments.

As he continues to enrich his profile with global collaborations and evolving methodologies, Asst. Prof. Koçali stands as a dedicated leader in engineering safety and professional education.

Notable Publications

Occupational Health and Safety Social Policy Reviews

Author: Kaan Koçali
Publisher: Özgür Publishing
Year: 2025

Occupational Health Services in Workplaces

Author: Kaan Koçali
Book Title: Employee Health and Occupational Safety
Year: 2025

: An Ergonomic Perspective on the Analysis of Postural Behaviors of Factory Workers: A Human Factors-Based Evaluation

Author: Kaan Koçali
Conference: 1st International Conference on Pioneer and Academic Research
Year: 2025

Analysis of Work Accidents in Shipyards and Preventive Strategies: An Evaluation with AHP Method

Author: Kaan Koçali
Conference: 10th International Congress of Scientific Research and Innovation
Year: 2025

Assessment of Occupational Health and Safety Risks in Disaster Logistics Operations: An Integrated Approach Based on the Example of the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes

Author: Kaan Koçali
Conference: 4th International Conference on Trends in Advanced Research
Year: 2025