Assoc Prof Dr. Haijiang Yang | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Haijiang Yang | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Lanzhou University | China

Author Profile

ORCID

Early Academic Pursuits

From the earliest stages of his academic life, Dr. Haijiang Yang demonstrated a profound interest in the natural environment, geographical science, and the interconnectedness between humans and ecosystems. His undergraduate studies in geographical science laid the groundwork for his understanding of Earth systems and spatial analysis. Building upon this foundation, he pursued advanced training in physical geography, where he deepened his expertise in ecosystem processes, land use patterns, and environmental change. His doctoral research in geography at a leading institution provided a platform to explore complex issues at the interface of natural and social sciences. During this period, Dr. Yang honed his skills in ecosystem service assessment, spatial modeling, and interdisciplinary research approaches. His early academic trajectory reflects a persistent drive to merge scientific theory with applied solutions for sustainable regional development.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Yang’s professional career reflects a seamless transition from intensive academic training to impactful research and teaching. His postdoctoral work at Lanzhou University allowed him to lead and contribute to significant research projects examining climate change, land use transitions, and ecosystem service dynamics. Through this role, he not only advanced his technical expertise in spatial-temporal modeling and sustainability assessments but also developed leadership skills essential for managing research teams. In his current role as Associate Professor at the College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, he combines rigorous academic inquiry with mentorship, guiding students in research design, data analysis, and scientific communication. His responsibilities extend beyond teaching to fostering collaborative research partnerships, securing competitive funding, and contributing to institutional and regional research priorities.

Contributions and Research Focus

At the heart of Dr. Yang’s scholarly contributions lies his dedication to understanding ecosystem services—specifically their spatial distribution, temporal evolution, and socio-ecological value. His research encompasses critical topics such as the spillover effects of ecosystem services, telecoupling processes, and mechanisms for cost-benefit sharing through eco-compensation. Much of his work is centered on the Qilian Mountains, a vital ecological region in China, where he investigates the interplay between climate change, land use dynamics, and service provision. His studies address both ecological and human dimensions, ensuring that his findings are relevant to policymakers, conservationists, and local communities. Through advanced modeling techniques and interdisciplinary analysis, Dr. Yang has produced knowledge that directly supports sustainable environmental management, agricultural optimization, and biodiversity conservation.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Yang’s growing academic profile is underscored by the competitive research grants and fellowships he has secured. His leadership as principal investigator on multiple national, provincial, and postdoctoral funding projects demonstrates both the trust of the scientific community in his capabilities and the relevance of his research to pressing environmental challenges. His publications in internationally recognized journals such as Ecosystem Services, Agricultural Systems, Environmental Research, and Ecological Indicators have brought his work to a global audience. The consistent quality and applicability of his research have established him as an emerging voice in the fields of ecosystem services and sustainable development.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. Yang’s work is evident in its practical applications for environmental policy, land management, and agricultural planning. By quantifying ecosystem services and analyzing their cross-border effects, he provides data-driven frameworks that can be used for regional cooperation and eco-compensation schemes. His studies on pollinator services, agricultural sustainability, and ecosystem provisioning have informed strategies for balancing environmental conservation with economic productivity. Beyond his direct research outputs, Dr. Yang’s mentorship of students and collaboration with colleagues contribute to building scientific capacity in the field. His influence extends to multiple stakeholder groups, including scientists, decision-makers, and local communities who benefit from his evidence-based recommendations.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Yang’s vision for the future is centered on advancing integrated approaches to sustainable regional development, with a particular emphasis on human-environment interactions in ecologically sensitive areas. He aims to further develop methodologies that combine ecological modeling with socio-economic analysis, thereby producing tools that can guide large-scale environmental planning and governance. Expanding his international collaborations is also a priority, as he seeks to exchange knowledge and best practices with global experts in sustainability science. His commitment to research excellence, community engagement, and interdisciplinary innovation positions him to continue making lasting contributions to environmental management and policy. Through these endeavors, Dr. Yang is poised to strengthen both the scientific understanding and practical implementation of sustainability strategies in China and beyond.

Notable Publications

Increasing deep soil water uptake during drought does not indicate higher drought resistance

Authors: Yin, D.; Gou, X.; Liu, J.; Zhang, D.; Wang, K.; Yang, H.
Journal: Journal of Hydrology
Year: 2024

Research progress on the valuation of forest ecosystem services in China during 2010 to 2021

Authors: Yang, H.; Gou, X.; Tang, C.; Xue, B.
Journal: Chinese Journal of Ecology
Year: 2024

Response of tree growth to drought variability in arid areas: Local hydroclimate and large-scale precipitation

Authors: Zhang, Y.; Gou, X.; Wang, T.; Zhang, F.; Wang, K.; Yang, H.; Yang, K.
Journal: Environmental Research
Year: 2024

The Sino-US trade friction would exacerbate global inequalities in achieving SDGs

Authors: Ma, W.; Li, C.; Kou, J.; Wang, X.; Yang, H.; Xue, B.; Gou, X.
Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
Year: 2024

Elevation-dependent tree growth response to recent warming and drought on eastern Tibetan Plateau

Authors: Yin, D.; Gou, X.; Yang, H.; Wang, K.; Liu, J.; Zhang, Y.; Gao, L.
Journal: Climatic Change
Year: 2023

Conclusion

Dr. Haijiang Yang’s academic and professional journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding and improving the relationship between human societies and the natural environment. His work, grounded in rigorous scientific analysis and motivated by real-world challenges, bridges the gap between theory and practice in ecosystem service research. With a solid record of scholarly output, competitive project leadership, and a vision aligned with global sustainability goals, Dr. Yang stands as a dynamic contributor to the fields of geography, environmental science, and regional development. His career trajectory suggests a continuing influence on both academic thought and the practical frameworks that guide sustainable environmental management.

Prof Breandán Ó hUallacháin | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Breandán Ó hUallacháin | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Arizona State University, United States

Author Profile

Google Scholar 

📘 Early Academic Pursuits

Born on June 7, 1952, Professor Breandán Ó hUallacháin’s academic journey reflects a deep and sustained commitment to the discipline of geography and regional science. A native of Ireland, he began his scholarly path at the National University of Ireland, University College Dublin, earning a B.A. (Hons) in Geography and Economics in 1973. This formative education grounded him in the socio-economic dimensions of space and place, which later informed much of his research in regional development.

His academic journey continued in the United States, where he obtained an M.A. in Geography from Indiana University in 1976. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Geography at the University of Illinois, graduating in 1982 with a concentration in Regional Science. This interdisciplinary program equipped him with a robust analytical framework and methodological expertise, preparing him for a career that would blend spatial theory with practical economic insight.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Professor Ó hUallacháin’s professional career spans over four decades, beginning with his early academic appointment as an Instructor of Economics at the University of Illinois from 1979 to 1982. He then served as Assistant Professor of Geography at Northwestern University, where he continued to build his research credentials before joining Arizona State University (ASU) in 1987. At ASU, he rose through the ranks from Assistant Professor to full Professor in the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning.

In administrative roles, he served with distinction as Chair of the Department of Geography from 1998 to 2004 and as Interim Chair from 1997 to 1998. During his tenure, he was instrumental in shaping the department’s strategic direction, enhancing both its academic offerings and research capacity.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Professor Ó hUallacháin’s research is rooted in regional science, economic geography, and urban planning. His work emphasizes the spatial distribution of economic activity, the evolution of industrial clusters, and the policy dimensions of regional development. Under his leadership, the ASU Department of Geography saw a significant increase in external research funding—from $898,000 in 1997–1998 to $2.5 million in 2002–2003. This impressive growth was a testament to the research culture he fostered and his own active contributions to competitive grant writing and collaborative inquiry.

He also oversaw the creation of graduate and undergraduate certificates in cutting-edge fields such as Geographical Information Science (GIS), Transportation, and Atmospheric Sciences. These innovations ensured that ASU remained at the forefront of geography education in the U.S., aligning academic programs with emerging trends and workforce demands.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

While specific awards are not listed in the provided biography, Professor Ó hUallacháin’s impact is evident in the trust placed in him by both his institution and his peers. His recommendations on personnel matters were consistently upheld by Arizona State University, suggesting high regard for his leadership and judgment. His graduate student recruitment program was described by external reviewers as a “model best practice operation”, indicating national-level recognition for excellence in academic mentoring and program development.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Professor Ó hUallacháin has not only shaped individual careers through mentorship but also significantly influenced the broader field of geography through curriculum innovation and institutional leadership. His role in expanding ASU’s course offerings and student enrollment had a transformative effect. From 1998 to 2003, enrollment in geography courses increased by 59%, reflecting his ability to make geography both accessible and relevant to a new generation of students.

As a Visiting Assistant Professor at the American Graduate School of International Management in 1988, he extended his influence beyond traditional geography departments, showing the interdisciplinary value of his expertise in global business and economics.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Now a senior figure in his discipline, Professor Ó hUallacháin’s legacy lies in his integration of rigorous academic research with practical applications in economic geography and planning. His educational programs and administrative innovations continue to shape ASU’s reputation as a hub for geographic scholarship. With grandchildren now a part of his growing family, his personal legacy is as meaningful as his professional one.

Looking forward, his continued presence in academia promises valuable mentorship, thought leadership, and contributions to evolving discussions around sustainable urban planning, regional inequality, and data-driven geographic research.

📝Notable Publications

Sectoral growth patterns at the metropolitan level: an evaluation of economic development incentives

Authors: B. Ó hUallacháin, M.A. Satterthwaite
Journal: Journal of Urban Economics
Year: 1992

The location and growth of business and professional services in American metropolitan areas, 1976–1986

Authors: B. Ó hUallacháin, N. Reid
Journal: Annals of the Association of American Geographers
Year: 1991

Spatial Analysis, Industry, and the Industrial Environment: International industrial systems

Authors: F.E.I. Hamilton, G.J.R. Linge
Journal: Wiley
Year: 1979

Rethinking the regional knowledge production function

Authors: B. Ó hUallacháin, T.F. Leslie
Journal: Journal of Economic Geography
Year: 2007

Sources of metropolitan growth

Authors: E.S. Mills, J.F. McDonald, M.L. McLean
Journal: Transaction Publishers
Year: 2012

Assoc Prof Dr. Asha Binu Raj | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Asha Binu Raj | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Bank Management (NIBM), Pune, India, India

Author Profile

Orcid 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Asha Binu Raj began her journey into the academic world with a deep-rooted interest in understanding human behavior, organizational systems, and the nuances of talent development. Her early academic pursuits were built on a strong educational foundation in Human Resource Management and Organizational Behaviour, areas that would later become the bedrock of her career. She demonstrated a consistent commitment to learning and scholarly excellence, which led her to pursue advanced degrees, culminating in a robust academic portfolio that qualified her to teach and mentor students across various academic levels. This academic curiosity laid the foundation for what would become a multifaceted and impactful career in both the academic and corporate worlds.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

With over 22 years of total professional experience, Dr. Asha Binu Raj currently serves as an Associate Professor at the National Institute of Bank Management (NIBM), Pune. Her career reflects a rich blend of academia and industry, uniquely positioning her as a practitioner-academic. She has dedicated over 13 years to teaching in prestigious doctoral, postgraduate, and undergraduate programs including Ph.D., MBA, and BBA courses. Her subjects of expertise include Human Resource Management, Organizational Behaviour, and Leadership.

Prior to her academic career, she amassed 8 years and 7 months of corporate experience, specializing in talent acquisition and human resource consulting. This dual exposure has allowed her to offer students and professionals alike a practical and application-oriented learning experience. Dr. Raj’s role extends beyond the classroom—she has been a designer and facilitator of numerous training programs for professionals across industries, addressing core HR challenges and leadership development.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Raj is not only a dedicated educator but also a prolific researcher and thought leader. Her research areas span a wide spectrum within HRM and OB, including talent management, employee engagement, employer and internal branding, organizational citizenship behavior, employee wellbeing, and corporate social responsibility. She has presented her findings at several national and international conferences, where her work has consistently been well-received.

Her research has been published in high-quality journals, including those ranked in the ABDC A, B, and C categories, and indexed in SCOPUS, Web of Science, EBSCO, ProQuest, SSRN, and CiteWeb. She has also authored and edited book chapters, contributing to academic literature that supports both scholars and practitioners.

Dr. Raj’s pedagogical approach is deeply informed by her research. She employs evidence-based strategies in her teaching and actively contributes to course design, development, and coordination. She is also an advocate for using digital tools and modern pedagogies such as gamification, project-based learning, and case-based teaching, making her classes engaging and impactful.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Asha Binu Raj has received recognition for her academic contributions, leadership in training, and commitment to student mentorship. Her scholarly publications in reputed journals and her role in consultancy projects have been acknowledged in academic circles. As a trainer, she has been consistently appreciated for her ability to connect theory with practice, making complex concepts accessible to learners from diverse professional backgrounds. While specific awards and honors are not listed, her career trajectory and institutional affiliations reflect a highly respected position within the academic and HRM communities.

🌱 Impact and Influence

Dr. Raj’s influence is felt deeply among her students, colleagues, and trainees. Her mentorship has guided many doctoral and postgraduate students toward successful academic and professional careers. She is often seen not just as a teacher, but as a coach, mentor, and guide who invests in the holistic development of her learners. Her work in training programs has impacted professionals across sectors, enabling them to align personal effectiveness with organizational goals.

Her consulting engagements have helped organizations navigate talent-related challenges and implement strategies around employee engagement, branding, and leadership development. She is known for her empathetic and inclusive approach, which enhances her ability to foster organizational citizenship and well-being.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her journey in academia and industry, Dr. Asha Binu Raj is poised to leave a legacy marked by integrity, innovation, and impact. Her future aspirations include deepening research in areas such as workplace wellness, leadership in dynamic environments, and digital HR transformations. She is committed to mentoring the next generation of HR professionals and scholars, promoting inclusive education and leadership, and contributing to policy and practice through her consultancy work.

Dr. Raj’s journey is a testament to the power of lifelong learning, interdisciplinary insight, and purpose-driven work. Her story continues to inspire emerging professionals and scholars to blend rigor with relevance, and knowledge with empathy, in their own professional paths.

Prof Dr. Barbara Sittner | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Barbara Sittner | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award 

Prof Dr. Barbara Sittner, Bryan College of Health Sciences/RETIRED, United States 

🔗 Professional Profiles

🌟 Summary:

Barbara J. Sittner, PhD, RN, APRN-CNS, ANEF, is an experienced nurse educator, simulation expert, and researcher with a strong background in maternal/child nursing. She has held various teaching positions, contributed to simulation training programs, and actively participated in research projects focusing on nursing education and patient safety.

📚 Education:

  • PhD in Community & Human Resources, University of Nebraska, 2002
  • MSN in Maternal/Child CNS, University of Nebraska Medical Center-College of Nursing, 1994
  • BSN in Nursing, University of Nebraska Medical Center-College of Nursing, 1990
  • Diploma in Nursing, Bryan Memorial School of Nursing, 1978

💼 Professional Experience:

  • Simulation Consultant & Simulation Center Director, Bryan College of Health Sciences, Lincoln, Nebraska (2019 – Present)
  • Professor of Nursing, Bryan College of Health Sciences, Lincoln, Nebraska (2012 – Present)
  • Assistant Professor, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing, Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska (2007 – 2012)
  • Maternal/Child Clinical Nurse Specialist & Patient Care Coordinator, Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, Lincoln, Nebraska (1994 – 2002)

🔬 Research Interests:

  • Simulation in nursing education
  • Interprofessional education (IPE)
  • Patient safety and quality improvement in healthcare
  • Maternal/Child health and perinatal nursing

I hope this captures the key aspects of your background and expertise! Let me know if you’d like to add or modify anything.

Publication Top Noted

Paper Title : Simulated Clinical Experience Nursing Students’ Perceptions and the Educators’ Role

  • Authors: Anne M. Schoening, Barbara J. Sittner, Martha J. Todd
  • Journal: Nurse Educator
  • Year: 2006
  • Citations: 362

Paper Title : INACSL standards of best practice for simulation: past, present, and future

  • Authors: Barbara J Sittner, Michelle L Aebersold, Jane B Paige, Leslie LM Graham, Andrea Parsons Schram, Sharon I Decker, Lori Lioce
  • Journal: Nursing education perspectives
  • Year: 2015
  • Citations: 189

Paper Title : National League for Nursing—Jeffries Simulation Framework State of the Science Project: Simulation Design Characteristics

  • Authors: Barbara J. Sittner Jeffrey Groom, Deborah Henderson
  • Journal:  Clinical Simulation in Nursing
  • Year: 2013
  • Citations: 146

Paper Title : Effects of high-risk pregnancies on families

  • Authors: Barbara J Sittner, John DeFrain, Diane Brage Hudson
  • Journal: MCN: The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing
  • Year: 2005
  • Citations: 66

Yongzhi Wang-Innovative Leadership-Best Researcher Award – 2646

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Dr. Yongzhi Wang-Innovative Leadership-Best Researcher Award 

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi-United States 

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

Yongzhi Wang's academic journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for computer science and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Beginning with a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science from Xidian University, China, he laid the groundwork for a stellar academic career. His Master's degree, also from Xidian University, further honed his expertise, setting the stage for his doctoral studies at Florida International University (FIU) in the United States.

Professional Endeavors

Yongzhi Wang's professional journey is marked by significant roles in academia and industry. His tenure as a Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant at FIU, coupled with his role as a Staff Software Engineer at IBM in China, provided him with a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical concepts and practical applications in computer science. Transitioning into academia, he served as an Assistant Professor at Xidian University in China before joining Park University in the United States, where he ascended to the position of Associate Professor.

Contributions and Research Focus

Yongzhi Wang's contributions to the field of computer science are multifaceted, spanning research, teaching, and program development. His research focus revolves around cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data integrity, as evidenced by his numerous publications in prestigious journals and conferences. His expertise in constructing secure computing frameworks in cloud environments has garnered recognition, including awards such as the Trending Article in IEEE Transactions on Computers and the Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Networking and Network Applications.

Accolades and Recognition

Yongzhi Wang's contributions have been widely recognized, with accolades such as the Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award at Park University and the Dissertation Year Fellowship at FIU. His media coverage and presence in prestigious conferences reflect the impact of his research on the broader academic and industry communities.

Impact and Influence on Innovative Leadership 

Yongzhi Wang's work has had a tangible impact on the field of cybersecurity and cloud computing, influencing best practices and frameworks for ensuring data integrity and security in distributed computing environments. His research grants and collaborations with institutions both in the US and China underscore his global influence and collaborative spirit in advancing computer science.

Yongzhi's leadership extends beyond academia into industry collaborations and grant initiatives, showcasing his strategic vision and proactive approach to driving change and making a meaningful impact. His leadership style fosters a culture of curiosity, experimentation, and continuous learning, empowering individuals and teams to explore new avenues and contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving landscape of computer science and technology. In essence, Yongzhi Wang's innovative leadership is not just about achieving success in the present but laying the groundwork for a future where innovation is at the forefront of progress and transformation.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Yongzhi Wang's legacy lies in his commitment to excellence in research, education, and innovation. His ongoing contributions to academia through teaching advanced courses and developing academic programs in cybersecurity pave the way for future generations of computer scientists. His vision for a secure and robust computing environment continues to drive his research endeavors, promising further breakthroughs and advancements in the field.

Innovative leadership is not just about implementing new ideas but fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Yongzhi Wang exemplifies innovative leadership through his pioneering research in cybersecurity and cloud computing. His ability to conceptualize and develop secure computing frameworks in cloud environments has not only pushed the boundaries of knowledge but also translated into tangible solutions that address real-world challenges. As an educator, Yongzhi's innovative leadership shines through his development of academic programs in cybersecurity and his dynamic teaching approach, which inspires students to think critically and explore cutting-edge technologies.

Citations 

  • Citations  573  409
  • h-index    11   10
  • i10-index 14   12

Notable Publications 

 

Laura Clark Hunt-Strategic Leadership-Best Researcher Award 

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Laura Clark Hunt-Strategic Leadership-Best Researcher Award 

University of Southern Mississippi-United States 

Author Profile

 Early Academic Pursuits

Laura K. Clark Hunt embarked on her academic journey with a focus on Information Science/Studies at Florida State University. She earned her Master's degree in 2011 and went on to complete her Ph.D. in Information Science/Studies in 2016 from the same institution.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Clark Hunt has been serving as an Assistant Professor on a tenure-track at the School of Library and Information Science within the College of Education and Human Sciences at the University of Southern Mississippi since September 1, 2021.

Her commitment to effective college instruction is demonstrated by her certification in "Effective College Instruction" from the Association of College and University Educators/American Council on Education.

She has been actively involved in teaching a variety of courses related to library and information science, including Development of Library Collection, Technology in the School Library, Programs and Services for Youth, Library Management, Studies in Early Children's Literature, Public Libraries, and Topics in Services to Library Clientele.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Clark Hunt's research focuses on various aspects of library science and information literacy. Her notable research includes a systematic review and case study on "Students with Disabilities Perceptions on the Library and College" published in the Journal of Academic Librarianship. She has also explored the experiences of public librarians in cases of censorship, as evident in her publication in the Public Library Quarterly.

In terms of external funding, she has been successful in obtaining grants, such as the "Service-Learning Faculty Fellows Seminar" sponsored by the Center for Community Engagement at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Clark Hunt received the ACUE Distinguished Teaching Scholar award in November 2022, recognizing her excellence in teaching at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Impact and Influence

Her work on topics such as creating inclusive environments in academic libraries, cultural heritage-infused curriculum, and the privacy paradigm shift for librarians has made a significant impact. Dr. Clark Hunt has presented her research findings at various conferences, including ALISE Annual Conference and ALLA Annual Convention, contributing to the broader academic community.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Clark Hunt's legacy is marked by her commitment to education, research, and service. Her extensive involvement in professional organizations, such as Beta Phi Mu and the American Library Association, positions her as a thought leader in the field. Her ongoing research projects, including "Creating Quality Environments in Academic Libraries for Disabled Persons," indicate a commitment to addressing contemporary challenges in the field.

As she continues her academic journey, Dr. Clark Hunt is poised to make further contributions to the field of library and information science, shaping the future of education and research in this domain.

Notable Publications