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

Dr. yang xu | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award |

Dr. yang xu | Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Beihang University, China

Profile

Orchid

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Yang Xu’s academic journey is characterized by a robust foundation in finance and accountancy, which has shaped his future research and professional endeavors. He began by acquiring a dual perspective through his undergraduate studies. At Beijing Technology and Business University, he pursued a BS in Accountancy, laying the groundwork in financial principles and analytical techniques. Simultaneously, his studies at the University College Cork in Ireland for a BS in Business and Financial Economics provided him with a comprehensive understanding of economic theories and market dynamics. These formative years were crucial in sparking his interest in international finance and empirical asset pricing. Later, his academic curiosity led him to further specialize, culminating in a PhD in Financial Engineering from Beihang University. His dissertation, “World Oil Market and Foreign Exchange Rate Prediction,” reflects a deep dive into complex global financial interdependencies and sets the stage for his continued focus on the nuanced interplay between commodity markets and currency fluctuations.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Building on his strong academic foundation, Yang Xu has built an impressive professional career. His early career saw him engaging with both teaching and research roles at the Beijing-Dublin International College (BDIC) of Beijing University of Technology. As an Assistant Professor, he not only imparted knowledge through courses like Introduction to Financial Accounting, The Chinese Economy, and Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management but also took on pivotal administrative responsibilities. In this capacity, he coordinated the Sino-foreign cooperative education project, orchestrated teaching arrangements, and contributed to quality assessments mandated by the Ministry of Education. This period of his career was marked by a balanced integration of academic instruction and hands-on administrative experience, reinforcing his capabilities in both areas.

Yang Xu’s journey continued as he joined Beihang University, where he first worked as a postdoctoral fellow before his promotion to Associate Professor in December 2021. At Beihang, he teaches advanced courses such as Financial Accounting, Corporate Finance, and Accounting for Financial Institutions, providing a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications to his students. His role at one of China’s premier institutions of higher learning not only underscores his academic credibility but also highlights his commitment to advancing education and research in finance.

Contributions and Research Focus 💡

Central to Yang Xu’s career is his research focus, which spans several critical areas in finance. His expertise in international finance, empirical asset pricing, exchange rates, commodity markets, and corporate finance positions him at the forefront of addressing some of the most pressing financial issues of our time. His doctoral research, particularly his work on the world oil market and foreign exchange rate prediction, demonstrates his ability to apply sophisticated quantitative methods to unravel complex economic phenomena. This research is emblematic of his broader commitment to understanding how global financial markets operate and influence each other.

Yang Xu’s work contributes to a more nuanced understanding of market behaviors and provides valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and investors. His empirical investigations into asset pricing and exchange rate dynamics offer robust methodologies that have the potential to guide future research in these areas. By integrating theoretical models with empirical data, he bridges the gap between academic research and real-world financial applications, thus enhancing the practical relevance of his studies.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout his academic and professional journey, Yang Xu has garnered recognition for his multifaceted contributions. While specific awards may not be explicitly listed, his career progression from an Assistant Professor to an Associate Professor at prestigious institutions like Beihang University is a testament to his dedication and excellence in the field. His leadership in coordinating international education projects, involvement in quality assessments by national educational authorities, and his role in organizing academic forums for “engineering master” programs all underscore his commitment to advancing educational standards and research quality. Such administrative and academic achievements have not only enhanced his reputation among peers but have also contributed to the broader recognition of his work in both academic and professional circles.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Yang Xu’s influence extends beyond the classroom and research labs. His contributions have had a profound impact on the fields of international finance and asset pricing, influencing how emerging scholars and industry professionals approach these disciplines. Through his teaching, he has shaped the perspectives of numerous students, equipping them with the analytical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to navigate the complex world of finance. His research, particularly on global commodity markets and exchange rates, offers critical insights that can inform policy decisions and strategic financial planning. The methodologies and analytical frameworks he has developed continue to inspire further studies and practical applications, thus leaving a lasting imprint on the field.

Moreover, his role in fostering international academic collaborations—evident from his early studies abroad and subsequent professional engagements—highlights his commitment to a global exchange of ideas. This cross-cultural academic perspective enhances the impact of his work and broadens the horizons for future research initiatives, thereby reinforcing his status as a thought leader in finance.

Legacy and Future Contributions Highlight 🚀

Looking ahead, Yang Xu is poised to make even greater strides in the realm of finance research and education. His evolving research agenda, which remains closely aligned with the dynamic challenges of international finance, promises to yield innovative insights and methodologies. With a solid foundation in empirical analysis and a keen interest in global market mechanisms, he is well-equipped to address emerging issues such as financial market volatility, the integration of new economic theories, and the influence of geopolitical events on financial stability.

As he continues to mentor the next generation of economists and finance professionals, his legacy will likely be defined by both the quality of his academic contributions and the transformative impact of his teaching. His dedication to advancing research, coupled with his practical administrative experience, positions him as a pivotal figure who will not only continue to influence current academic discourse but also shape the future trajectory of finance research. The groundwork he has laid in international finance and empirical asset pricing will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for future innovations, ensuring that his contributions remain relevant and influential in the years to come.

In summary, Yang Xu’s academic achievements, professional endeavors, and ongoing research contributions paint the picture of a dedicated scholar and educator whose impact resonates across multiple facets of finance. His journey from early academic pursuits to becoming a recognized leader in international finance underscores his commitment to excellence and innovation—traits that promise a bright and influential future.

📝Notable Publications

ESG rating disagreement, volatility, and stock returns

Authors: Qingduo Zeng; Yang Xu; Mengshu Hao; Meiqi Gao

Journal: Finance Research Letters

Year: 2025

Oil Strikes Back: Trend Factors and Exchange Rates

Authors: LIYAN HAN; YANG XU; QUNZI ZHANG; XIAONENG ZHU

Journal: Journal of Money, Credit and Banking

Year: 2024

Geopolitical risk and the dynamics of international capital flows

Authors: Chaonan Feng; Liyan Han; Samuel Vigne; Yang Xu

Journal: Journal of International Financial Markets, Institutions and Money

Year: 2023

Does the SDR stabilize investing in commodities?

Authors: Jiayu Jin; Liyan Han; Yang Xu

Journal: International Review of Economics & Finance

Year: 2022

Measuring Financial Time Series Similarity with a View to Identifying Profitable Stock Market Opportunities

Authors: Rian Dolphin; Barry Smyth; Yang Xu; Ruihai Dong

Type: Book chapter

Year: 2021