Kicheol Lee | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kicheol Lee | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kicheol Lee | Halla University/RISE Project Group | South Korea

Dr. Kicheol Lee is a research professor specializing in civil and structural engineering, with a strong record in foundation engineering, numerical modelling, and new technology development. His work spans artificial intelligence (machine learning, deep learning), probabilistic and statistical methods, field applications in geotechnical/tunnel/foundation engineering, and reliability-based design (LRFD). He has been recognized with multiple best paper and presentation awards from the Korea Geosynthetics Society and the Korea Geotechnical Society. His expertise in numerical simulation (particularly via ABAQUS), and integration of AI/ML with civil engineering systems, has made him a leading figure in predictive modeling, anomaly detection, and structural reliability. Dr. Lee’s contribution lies in bridging advanced computational methods with practical engineering challenges, especially in ensuring safety, resilience, and sustainability of infrastructure. Dr. Lee’s current research is deeply interdisciplinary, merging geotechnical engineering, structural health monitoring, and intelligent systems to create safer, data-driven infrastructure solutions.His ongoing work under the Gangwon RISE Project aims to transform urban safety and sustainability by employing augmented and virtual reality technologies for real-time disaster visualization and early warning.

Author’s Profile

Scopus | Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Kicheol Lee began his academic journey in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Incheon National University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree (2015), Master’s degree (2017), and Doctorate (Ph.D., 2021). His early research concentrated on geotechnical and foundation engineering, particularly the mechanical behavior of pile groups and the evaluation of soil–structure interactions through numerical and experimental methods. His doctoral dissertation, “Evaluation of Resistance Factors of Pile Groups Consisting of Drilled Shafts Embedded in Sandy Ground under Axial Load through Numerical Analysis,” established his expertise in reliability-based foundation design (LRFD) and computational modeling using ABAQUS, laying the groundwork for his later innovations in smart infrastructure systems.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Lee’s professional career seamlessly bridges academia, industry, and national research initiatives, reflecting his commitment to advancing digitally enhanced civil infrastructure technologies. He currently serves as a Research Professor at Halla University under the RISE Project Group (since September 2025), where he leads the Gangwon RISE Project focused on developing advanced safety and green city technologies through the integration of Digital Twin and 3D data. Prior to this role, he was a Principal Researcher at the Korea Institute of Structural Integrity Research (2024–2025), where he led national R&D projects centered on innovative construction technologies and safety inspection systems. From 2021 to 2024, he served as Research Director at UCI Tech Co., Ltd., managing government-funded initiatives that merged IoT and augmented reality (AR) technologies for infrastructure maintenance and smart monitoring applications. Across these roles, Dr. Lee has demonstrated a clear progression from applied geotechnical engineering toward the fusion of engineering mechanics, intelligent systems, and data science to create more resilient, sustainable, and intelligent civil infrastructure.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Lee’s interdisciplinary research bridges geotechnical engineering with artificial intelligence, probability, and information technologies to develop data-driven and intelligent systems for the monitoring, design, and maintenance of civil infrastructures. His expertise spans artificial intelligence—particularly the application of convolutional and recurrent neural networks (CNNs and RNNs) for anomaly detection, predictive modeling, and data-driven decision-making in structural health monitoring—as well as foundation and tunnel engineering, focusing on advanced modeling and soil–structure interaction analysis. He is also skilled in numerical analysis using ABAQUS to simulate complex geotechnical phenomena and evaluate soil–structure responses. In addition, Dr. Lee integrates reliability and probabilistic design principles through statistical modeling, Monte Carlo simulations, and Bayesian inference within LRFD-based design frameworks. His innovative contributions extend to smart infrastructure and safety systems, including the development of AI-enabled inspection robots, reversible thermochromic materials for black-ice prevention, and UAV-based soil monitoring systems utilizing hyperspectral imaging. He has led or contributed to 11 major national R&D projects funded by various Korean ministries—including those of Education, Environment, Land, Transport, Industry, and SMEs & Startups—addressing challenges in smart cities, environmental protection, and disaster prevention, all aimed at advancing sustainable and resilient civil infrastructure.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Lee’s scholarly influence is reflected in his prolific publication record, with over 50 peer-reviewed journal papers—15 indexed in SCI/SCI(E), 34 in Korean journals, and 2 in Scopus. His research has appeared in leading international journals such as Applied Sciences, Sustainability, Remote Sensing, Polymers, and Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology. His academic excellence has been recognized through several prestigious awards, including the Best Paper Presentation Awards from the Korea Geosynthetics Society and the Korea Geotechnical Society in 2020, and the Best Paper Award from the Korea Geosynthetics Society in 2019. Complementing his scholarly achievements, Dr. Lee holds 15 registered patents in the Republic of Korea, showcasing his technological innovation in civil engineering through the development of smart barriers, reversible paints for road safety, and advanced pile systems. Beyond research, he actively contributes to the professional community as an Editorial Board Member of the Korea Geosynthetics Society (2024–Present), and as Assistant Administrator of both the Low-Carbon Construction Committee and the Incheon Regional Committee of the Korean Geotechnical Society (since 2023). Through these roles, Dr. Lee fosters academic collaboration, encourages the dissemination of innovation, and advances sustainable engineering practices in the civil infrastructure domain.

Academic Cites

Dr. Lee’s work is frequently cited in research concerning geotechnical reliability, foundation engineering, and smart civil technologies. His papers on hyperspectral soil analysis and negative skin friction in piles have become valuable references in data-integrated geotechnical research. By bridging machine learning with traditional civil engineering models, his methodologies have influenced new approaches to predictive maintenance and risk-based infrastructure management in both academia and industry.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Kicheol Lee embodies a new generation of civil engineers who seamlessly integrate artificial intelligence, sustainability, and resilience into traditional infrastructure systems. His pioneering work on AI-driven monitoring, Digital Twin simulations, and smart geotechnical materials is reshaping the future of infrastructure safety and environmental protection. Looking ahead, Dr. Lee aspires to expand the application of augmented reality (AR) and digital twin technologies for real-time disaster prediction and response, develop autonomous robotic systems for structural inspection and maintenance, and contribute to global initiatives promoting smart and sustainable urban development in the face of climate change. His long-term vision is centered on building data-informed, intelligent, and resilient civil infrastructure systems that not only enhance public safety and operational efficiency but also minimize environmental impact—paving the way for the realization of next-generation smart and sustainable cities.

Featured Publications

Lee, K. (2024). Verification of construction method for smart liners to prevent oil spill spread in onshore. Sustainability, 16(23), 10626. https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310626

Lee, K. (2023). Proposal of construction method of smart liner to block and detect spreading of soil contaminants by oil spill. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(2), 940. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20020940

Lee, K. (2022). Spectrum index for estimating ground water content using hyperspectral information. Sustainability, 14(21), 14318. https://doi.org/10.3390/su142114318

Lee, K. (2022). Prediction of ground water content using hyperspectral information through laboratory test. Sustainability, 14(17), 10999. https://doi.org/10.3390/su141710999

Lee, K. (2021). Analysis of vertical earth pressure acting on box culverts through centrifuge model test. Applied Sciences, 12(1), 81. https://doi.org/10.3390/app12010081

Lee, K. (2020). Numerical analysis of the contact behavior of a polymer-based waterproof membrane for tunnel lining. Polymers, 12(11), 2704. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym12112704

Lee, K. (2020). Analysis of effects of rock physical properties changes from freeze–thaw weathering in Ny-Ålesund region: Part 2—Correlations and prediction of weathered properties. Applied Sciences, 10(10), 3392. https://doi.org/10.3390/app10103392

Lee, K. (2020). Analysis of effects of rock physical properties changes from freeze–thaw weathering in Ny-Ålesund region: Part 1—Experimental study. Applied Sciences, 10(5), 1707. https://doi.org/10.3390/app10051707

Hafiz Muhammad Raza ur Rehman | Data Science | Best Researcher Award 

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Raza ur Rehman | Data Science | Best Researcher Award 

Assist. Prof. Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Raza ur Rehman | Yeungnam University | South Korea

Author Profiles

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Raza ur Rehman began his academic journey with a strong foundation in information and communication engineering, culminating in a PhD from Yeungnam University, Korea. His doctoral research laid the groundwork for his later contributions in machine learning, multi-agent reinforcement learning (MARL), and data-science. His academic excellence and early engagement with algorithmic design and optimization established his trajectory as a dedicated researcher and educator in computational intelligence.

Professional Endeavors

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Raza ur Rehman pursued a postdoctoral research position in Korea, focusing on sensor calibration for autonomous vehicles (AVs). Over 5.5 months, he conducted high-level interdisciplinary work aimed at improving the precision and reliability of AV sensor systems. He also gained substantial teaching experience 9 months as an Assistant Professor where he taught undergraduate and graduate courses in machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, and data-science. In addition, his collaboration with the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), Korea, on a US Air Force–funded project, exemplified his ability to contribute to large-scale international research efforts.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Raza ur Rehman’s research portfolio reflects a deep commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary integration. His primary focus areas include multi-agent reinforcement learning (MARL), autonomous vehicle systems, natural language processing (NLP), and optimization algorithms. He has authored a patent centered on MARL techniques and published several impactful journal and conference papers. Key publications include “QsOD: MARL-based QMIX with Grey Wolf Optimization” and “Prediction-Based Model for Chemical Compounds.” Moreover, he has presented research such as “Camera Calibration with CNN” at IEEE conferences and six additional papers at Korean academic venues. His current research extends to seven articles under review in internationally reputed journals, reinforcing his commitment to advancing data-science and intelligent systems.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Raza ur Rehman’s interdisciplinary research bridges theory and application spanning from algorithmic optimization to real-world technological integration. His MARL-related patent and publications contribute significantly to the growing body of knowledge in intelligent agent systems. By integrating data-science with advanced computational models, his work influences emerging fields such as autonomous navigation, machine learning-based control systems, and intelligent automation. As a mentor, he continues to inspire students through hands-on projects, fostering innovation and critical thinking in the next generation of engineers and researchers.

Academic Cites

His scholarly output includes publications in peer-reviewed international journals, conference presentations, and ongoing submissions to high-impact outlets. The QsOD study and the chemical compound prediction model have attracted interest in computational optimization and artificial intelligence research circles. His IEEE presentation on CNN-based camera calibration further strengthened his academic visibility and recognition within the AI research community.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Raza ur Rehman aims to expand his research on multi-agent reinforcement learning, autonomous systems, and optimization-driven AI architectures. His future work is poised to contribute substantially to global research in data-science, particularly in developing adaptive, intelligent algorithms for complex real-world problems. Through continued teaching, mentorship, and publication, he aspires to leave a lasting legacy in both academia and applied research bridging the gap between theoretical innovation and practical technological advancement.

Featured Publications

Raza, S. N., ur Rehman, H. M., Lee, S. G., & Choi, G. S. (2019). Artificial intelligence-based camera calibration. 2019 15th International Wireless Communications & Mobile Computing Conference (IWCMC), 32. IEEE.

Nagulapati, V. M., ur Rehman, H. M. R., Haider, J., Qyyum, M. A., Choi, G. S., & Lim, H. (2022). Hybrid machine learning-based model for solubilities prediction of various gases in deep eutectic solvent for rigorous process design of hydrogen purification. Separation and Purification Technology, 298, 121651.

ur Rehman, H. M. R., On, B. W., Ningombam, D. D., Yi, S., & Choi, G. S. (2021). QSOD: Hybrid policy gradient for deep multi-agent reinforcement learning. IEEE Access, 9, 129728–129741.

ur Rehman, H. M. R., Saleem, M., Jhandir, M. Z., & Hafiz, H. G. I. A. (2025). Detecting hate in diversity: A survey of multilingual code-mixed image and video analysis. Journal of Big Data, 12(1), Article 5.

Younas, R., ur Rehman, H. M. R., Lee, I., On, B. W., Yi, S., & Choi, G. S. (2025). Sa-MARL: Novel self-attention-based multi-agent reinforcement learning with stochastic gradient descent. IEEE Access, 13, Article 5.

Khan, N. U., & ur Rehman, H. M. R. (2025). Real time signal decoding in closed loop brain computer interface for cognitive modulation. Ubiquitous Technology Journal, 1(1), 32–39.

ur Rehman, H. M. R., Haider, S. A., Faisal, H., Yoo, K. Y., Jhandir, M. Z., & Choi, G. S. (2025). A novel framework for Saraiki script recognition using advanced machine learning models (YOLOv8 and CNN). IEEE Access, 13, Article 2.

Qingyuan Li | Labor Economics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Qingyuan Li | Labor Economics | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Qingyuan Li | Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology (IEA), Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) | China

Dr. Qingyuan Li is a Doctor of Economics from the University of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (UCASS) and a Postdoctoral Fellow at Peking University (PKU). His research interests lie at the intersection of labor economics and digital economics, with a strong interdisciplinary orientation spanning economics, sociology, and demography. Dr. Li has authored and co-authored 11 journal papers in prestigious SSCI and CSSCI indexed journals, addressing critical issues such as population aging, fertility, employment, income distribution, and health, while also leading six research projects and participating in national-level studies on population and aging strategies. His recent publications in Economic Modelling, Journal of Financial Research, Population Journal, and Management Review examine how digital infrastructure and Internet use influence household labor supply, financial behavior, and gender role attitudes, offering valuable empirical insights for China’s socio-economic transformation. He has also contributed to understanding the distributed effects of education on health and the moral hazard mechanisms in targeted poverty alleviation, advancing policy-oriented research in inclusive and sustainable development. His collaborative works have explored how digitalization empowers rural prosperity, family well-being, and youth employment, forming an evidence base for digital economy policymaking. With a growing body of influential publications, Dr. Li has earned over 300 citations and an h-index of 8, reflecting the impact and relevance of his research in both domestic and international academia. He has also authored two books, contributed to interdisciplinary studies on digital divides and digital dividends, and provided critical insights into the socio-economic dimensions of aging and digital transformation. In addition to his academic work, he has undertaken two consultancy projects and collaborated with leading research institutions, including the National School of Development at PKU and the Institute of Population and Labor Economics (IPLE) at CASS. As a member of the PKU Center for Healthy Aging and Development and the Health and Elderly Care Branch of the Chinese Society of Labor Economics, Dr. Li remains deeply engaged in advancing scholarly and policy dialogues on labor dynamics, digital inclusion, and social welfare in an era of rapid technological change and demographic transition.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Dong, Y., & Li, Q. (2025). Fertility policy and household labor supply: Evidence from China’s universal two-child policy. Economic Modelling, 132, 107345.

Ivan Marovic | Project Management | Best Researcher Award 

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Prof. Dr. Ivan Marovic | Project Management | Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Dr. Ivan Marovic | University of Rijeka, Faculty of Civil Engineering | Croatia

Prof. Dr. Ivan Marovic is a distinguished academic with over two decades of experience in civil engineering, progressing from research assistant to full professorship at the University of Rijeka, Croatia. His expertise lies in Project Management with a particular focus on management information systems, multi-criteria decision analysis, and soft computing methods applied to civil engineering challenges. He has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Best Doctoral Thesis Award by the Croatian Association of Civil Engineers, the Vera Johanides Award by the Croatian Academy of Technical Sciences, and the Global Peer Review Award (Clarivate Analytics) for ranking among the top 1% of reviewers worldwide in Environment and Ecology as well as in Cross-Field research. Prof. Marović has demonstrated exceptional leadership in research, having led and participated in multiple national and international projects such as “Development of performance management model for construction projects based on soft computing methods (PerfMAN),” “CRESCO Adria,” “GAIA COFUND,” and several University of Rijeka-funded initiatives focusing on construction project optimization, climate adaptation, and infrastructure performance. His prolific academic output includes 40 Scopus-indexed and 38 Web of Science-indexed publications, achieving 457 citations (Scopus), 383 citations (WoS), and h-indices of 13 and 11, respectively, reflecting a consistent contribution to advancing sustainable construction and project management methodologies. His editorial involvement spans guest editorships in Sustainability and Applied Sciences, and membership on the editorial board of Advances in Civil and Architectural Engineering. As an active member of numerous scientific committees across Europe including OTMC, PrometheeDays, and DBMC conferences he has contributed to shaping the discourse in civil engineering research. Beyond academia, he has been actively engaged in consultancy and innovation-driven collaborations, notably co-investigating the award-winning “Innovative Connector for Joining Thin-Walled Steel C-Profile Structural Elements,” which received a silver medal at the ARCA International Exhibition for Innovation. His professional memberships include the Croatian Operational Research Society and the Croatian Association of Construction Management. A dedicated mentor, he has supervised over 45 bachelor’s and master’s theses and one doctoral dissertation. For his outstanding academic, research, and industry contributions, Prof. Marović continues to be recognized nationally and internationally as a leading figure in civil engineering project management and sustainable infrastructure development.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar | Staff Page

Xianglin Dai | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Xianglin Dai | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xianglin Dai | Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences | China

Prof. Xianglin Dai is an accomplished Associate Professor at the Institute of Coastal Agriculture, Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, where he has made notable contributions to agricultural and environmental research. He serves as a Committee Member of the Nutrient Cycling Committee of the Chinese Society of Plant Nutrition and Fertilizers and as a Guidance Expert for the Compilation of Achievements for the Third National Soil Census in Hebei Province, reflecting his influence in advancing soil and nutrient management practices in China. Prof. Dai has successfully led more than six major research projects, including the Hebei Natural Science Foundation General Project, the Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences Innovation Talent Construction Project, the Tibet Autonomous Region Natural Science Foundation Youth Project, the Tangshan City Science and Technology Plan Project, and the Open Project of the State Key Laboratory of Barley and Yak Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement jointly supported by the Ministry and Province. His interdisciplinary research focuses on soil fertility, nutrient cycling, sustainable agriculture, and ecosystem productivity in coastal and high-altitude regions, providing critical insights into optimizing soil health and crop performance under changing climatic conditions. As first author or corresponding author, he has published more than 10 peer-reviewed papers in high-impact international and national journals such as Soil Biology and Biochemistry, Geoderma, Soil and Tillage Research, European Journal of Soil Biology, Applied Soil Ecology, Chinese Journal of Eco-Agriculture, and Journal of Applied and Environmental Biology, which are widely recognized for their scientific rigor and applied relevance. His research outputs have been cited extensively, accumulating over 350 citations with an h-index of 8 on Google Scholar, highlighting his growing academic impact in soil science and environmental sustainability. Beyond research, Prof. Dai has demonstrated innovation and knowledge transfer by securing 2 authorized patents as first inventor and 2 registered software copyrights, supporting technological applications in agricultural resource management. He has also authored 1 monograph as editor-in-chief and contributed to 2 additional scholarly books, further strengthening the dissemination of scientific knowledge. Through his dedication to soil ecology, nutrient dynamics, and sustainable agricultural systems, Prof. Dai continues to play a key role in advancing both theoretical research and its practical implementation, contributing to environmental conservation, agricultural modernization, and food security in China.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Dai, X., Song, D., Guo, T., Cui, J., Zhou, W., Huang, S., Shen, J., Liang, G., & He, P. (2022). Organic amendment regulates soil microbial biomass and activity in wheat–maize and wheat–soybean rotation systems. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 340, 107974.

Dai, X., Liu, Y., Sun, J., Zhao, Z., Wang, X., & Zhang, G. (2022). Response of soil bacterial community structure and function under two salt-tolerant plants in a coastal saline soil area of eastern Hebei province of China. International Journal of Phytoremediation, 24(9), 911–922.

Dai, X., Cui, J., Song, D., Xu, X., He, P., Wang, X., Liang, G., Zhou, W., & Zhu, P. (2021). Effects of long-term cropping regimes on SOC stability, soil microbial community and enzyme activities in the Mollisol region of Northeast China. Applied Soil Ecology, 166, 103941.

Dai, X., Song, D., Guo, Q., Zhou, W., Liu, G., Ma, R., Liang, G., He, P., & Sun, G. (2021). Predicting the influence of fertilization regimes on potential N fixation through their effect on free-living diazotrophic community structure in double rice cropping systems. Soil Biology and Biochemistry, 155, 108220.

Dai, X., Guo, Q., Song, D., Zhou, W., Liu, G., Liang, G., He, P., Sun, G., & Yuan, F. (2021). Long-term mineral fertilizer substitution by organic fertilizer and the effect on the abundance and community structure of ammonia-oxidizing archaea and bacteria in paddy soil of south China. European Journal of Soil Biology, 103, 103288.

Dai, X., Song, D., Zhou, W., Liu, G., Liang, G., He, P., Sun, G., Yuan, F., & Liu, Z. (2021). Partial substitution of chemical nitrogen with organic nitrogen improves rice yield, soil biochemical indicators and microbial composition in a double rice cropping system in south China. Soil and Tillage Research, 206, 104753.

Dai, X., Zhou, W., Liu, G., Liang, G., He, P., & Liu, Z. (2019). Soil C/N and pH together as a comprehensive indicator for evaluating the effects of organic substitution management in subtropical paddy fields after application of high-quality amendments. Geoderma, 337, 1111–1119.

Veselina Chakarova | Electrochemistry and Corrosion | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Veselina Chakarova | Electrochemistry and Corrosion | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Physical Chemistry – Bulgarian Academy of Sciences | Bulgaria

Ms. Veselina Petrova Chakarova is an accomplished researcher and chemist at the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS), with over 14 years of scientific experience in the field of electrochemistry and corrosion. Her research primarily focuses on the development, optimization, and characterization of functional nickel-based coatings, particularly Ni–P and Ni–Co–P systems, applied to various substrates for enhanced corrosion resistance, catalytic efficiency, and surface functionality. A graduate of the University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy in Sofia, Bulgaria, Ms. Chakarova specialized in Electrochemistry and Corrosion, laying the foundation for her strong experimental and theoretical background. Since joining the Institute of Physical Chemistry, she has significantly contributed to advancing materials science through the design of innovative chemical solutions for the electroless deposition of Ni–P coatings on both flexible and rigid polymer substrates and, more recently, on steel surfaces. These coatings have demonstrated superior properties suited for multiple industrial and technological applications. Her research achievements are evidenced by 14 publications in high-impact refereed journals, including a notable article in Catalysis Today, where she reported the synthesis and catalytic behavior of Ni–Co–P coatings. Additionally, her doctoral dissertation, titled “Obtaining and Characterizing Ni–P Coatings on Different Types of Substrates,” has become a reference point for future researchers in the field of functional coatings. Ms. Chakarova’s research portfolio includes 12 completed and ongoing scientific projects, several of which have been funded by the Bulgarian National Science Fund and the Ministry of Education and Science. Between 2017 and 2019, she led a project under the Young Scientists and Postdoctoral Researchers Program (“Young Scientists” module), and from 2020 to 2024, she has been a key beneficiary of the Young Scientists Program, promoting innovation in electrochemical surface modification. Her leadership in these projects has fostered the growth of early-career researchers and strengthened Bulgaria’s scientific capabilities in materials chemistry. Her scientific influence extends to her citation index of 71 in Scopus and other international databases, underscoring the recognition and relevance of her research within the global scientific community. Moreover, she has one published patent and another under process, reflecting her commitment to translating research outcomes into tangible innovations with practical impact. Ms. Chakarova’s current focus includes collaborative initiatives, particularly with TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey), aiming to develop advanced coatings with superior corrosion protection and catalytic performance. Her dedication to interdisciplinary collaboration, precision experimentation, and sustainable technological advancement highlights her as a promising leader in materials science and electrochemistry. Through her continuous research, mentorship, and innovation-driven mindset, Ms. Veselina Petrova Chakarova exemplifies the values of scientific excellence and impact. Her contributions to electrochemical coating technologies and corrosion science not only enhance Bulgaria’s research reputation but also align with the global goals of sustainable industrial advancement and technological innovation.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Chakarova, V. (2025). Evaluating the bifunctional properties towards HER and OER of NiCo electrodeposited coatings: Combined influence of support, Ni/Co ratio, and phosphorus doping. Catalysis Today, 438, Article 115495. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cattod.2025.115495

Chakarova, V. (2023). Electrocatalytic properties of electroless Ni–P coatings towards hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline solution: Ni–P coatings deposited on steel substrate at different concentrations of sodium hypophosphite. Electrocatalysis, 14(2), 276–287. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12678-022-00791-x

Chakarova, V. (2021). Corrosion behavior of the ζ-CrZn₁₃ phase obtained by annealing an electrodeposited Zn-Cr coating. Electrochemistry Communications, 123, 106904. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.elecom.2020.106904

Chakarova, V. (2020). Pre-treatment of dielectrics and technological process for deposition of chemical copper layers from copper solution with improved ecological impact. Transactions of the Institute of Metal Finishing, 98(2), 73–80. https://doi.org/10.1080/00202967.2020.1718941

Chakarova, V. (2019a). Hydrogen evolution reaction on electroless Ni–P coatings deposited at different pH values. Bulgarian Chemical Communications, 51(3), 312–318.

Chakarova, V. (2019b). Influence of annealing temperature on ζ-CrZn₁₃ formation in electrodeposited Zn–Cr coatings. Surface Engineering, 36(5), 419–427. https://doi.org/10.1080/02670844.2019.1598023

Chakarova, V. (2019c). Study on the degreasing and etching operations in the pre-treatment of ABS dielectric aimed at obtaining quality chemically deposited nickel-phosphorus coatings. Transactions of the Institute of Metal Finishing, 97(4), 171–179. https://doi.org/10.1080/00202967.2019.1630183

 

Fatemah Alsalman | Food Processing | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fatemah Alsalman | Food Processing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fatemah Alsalman | Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) | Kuwait

Dr. Fatemah Alsalman is an accomplished food scientist with a Ph.D. in Food Science from McGill University, Canada, completed in 2020, following an M.Sc. in Food and Agricultural Chemistry from the same institution and a B.Sc. in Nutritional Sciences from Kuwait University, where she was recognized as an Outstanding Graduating Student. She was awarded scholarships by the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) for both her M.Sc. and Ph.D. studies. Dr. Alsalman currently serves as an Associate Research Scientist at the Food and Nutrition Program, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, KISR, Kuwait, after roles as Assistant Research Scientist and Research Assistant since 2011. Her research focuses on functional foods, aquafaba applications, gluten-free and nutrient-fortified products, and high-pressure processing effects on food properties, contributing to food safety, quality, and nutritional enhancement. She has presented her work at over 15 international and national conferences, including IFT, NABEC, CIFST, ICSTM, and multiple Kuwait-based scientific research conferences, highlighting topics such as aquafaba functionality, moringa fortification, starch digestibility, protein structure, and phenolic extraction. Dr. Alsalman has also actively participated in numerous workshops, trainings, and dialogues on food safety, nutrition, obesity prevention, value addition, MATLAB, and food traceability, reflecting her commitment to applied research and capacity building in the food science sector. She is a member of national committees, including the Healthy City Initiative and the Supreme Committee for Food Safety representing KISR. Her work has resulted in more than 12 publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings, with citations reflecting her impact on food science and technology research, earning her an h-index of 5. Her research has contributed practical insights on product development, functional ingredients, high-pressure processing, and food system sustainability in Kuwait and internationally, advancing both scientific knowledge and public health applications. Dr. Alsalman’s combination of rigorous academic training, applied research experience, and active engagement in national and international forums underscores her role as a leading researcher in food science and nutrition, particularly in developing sustainable, health-promoting, and innovative food solutions.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Alsalman, F. B., & Thomas, L. (2025). Quality of eggless brioche (bread loaf) made from aquafaba. Food Chemistry Advances, 7, 101125.

Alsalman, F. B., & Al-Sharrah, T. (2024). Gluten‐free pasta fortified with moringa leaves: Effect of recipe ratios on quality and structural properties. International Journal of Food Science & Technology, 59(5), 17045.

Alsalman, F. B., Al-Ruwaih, N., Al-Attar, H., & Mulla, M. Z. (2022). Effect of high pressure processing on structural and functional properties of canned aquafaba. Food Science and Biotechnology, 31, 1111–1124.

Alsalman, F. B. (2021). Changes in carbohydrate quality of high-pressure treated aqueous aquafaba. Food Hydrocolloids, 114, 106417.

Alsalman, F. B., & Ramaswamy, H. S. (2021). Evaluation of changes in protein quality of high-pressure treated aqueous aquafaba. Molecules, 26(1), 234.

Alsalman, F. B. (2020). Evaluation of factors affecting aquafaba rheological and thermal properties. LWT, 133, 109831.

Alsalman, F. B. (2020). Reduction in soaking time and anti-nutritional factors by high pressure processing of chickpeas. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 57, 2940–2950.

Alsalman, F. B., Tulbek, M., Nickerson, M., & Ramaswamy, H. S. (2020). Evaluation and optimization of functional and antinutritional properties of aquafaba. Legume Science, 2(3), e30.

Alsalman, F. B. (2014). Effect of particle size and temperature on rheological, thermal, and structural properties of pumpkin flour dispersion. Journal of Food Engineering, 123, 120–127.

Alsalman, F. B. (2013). Effect of blanching on thermal color degradation kinetics and rheological behavior of rocket (Eruca sativa) puree. Journal of Food Engineering, 119, 538–545.

Laith Tashtoush | Business Administration | Best Researcher Award 

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Laith Tashtoush | Business Administration | Best Researcher Award 

Assist. Prof. Dr. Laith Tashtoush | Near East University | Turkey

Assist. Prof. Dr. Laith Tashtoush holds a PhD in Business Administration from Near East University (2020), following his Master’s degree from Al-Albayt University (2008) and a Bachelor’s degree from Mu’tah University (2003). Since March 2024, he has been serving as Assistant Professor, contributing extensively to research and education in business administration, human resource management, organizational behavior, and international business. His PhD research focused on the impact of human resource management functions on organizational commitment and citizenship behavior in Jordanian universities, while his Master’s thesis examined the role of information system capabilities in enhancing competitive advantage strategies. Dr. Tashtoush has supervised 30 Master’s and postgraduate theses across diverse topics including digital marketing, social media, blockchain, cryptocurrency, strategic management of sustainability, ethical leadership, entrepreneurial development, international trade, e-commerce, customer loyalty, and SME performance in multiple countries such as Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Yemen, Turkey, and North Cyprus. His supervision spans studies on organizational culture, leadership styles, employee motivation, productivity, brand equity, service quality, and the effects of globalization on business performance. He has guided research on the integration of technology and innovation in business advancement, green practices, and financial performance evaluation of multinational firms, bridging theoretical concepts with practical applications. Dr. Tashtoush’s work contributes to understanding the dynamics of human resource management, leadership, and strategic decision-making in global and emerging markets. He has published 15 international journal articles and book chapters, with an h-index of 6 and over 180 citations, reflecting the impact and relevance of his research in academic and professional circles. Through his teaching, mentorship, and research, he advances knowledge in business strategy, organizational development, and sustainable management practices, fostering the next generation of business leaders and scholars.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Eyupoglu, S. Z., & Tashtoush, L. (2020). The relationship between human resource management practices and organisational citizenship behaviour. South African Journal of Business Management, 51(1), 1–11.

Tashtoush, L. (2021). The effect of social media on consumer buying behavior in commercial banks. Saudi Journal of Business and Management Studies, 6(2), 28–38.

Tashtoush, L. (2021). The role of information systems capabilities as a driving force in enhancing organizational performance.

Harb, H. K., Eyupoglu, S. Z., & Tashtoush, L. (2023). The relationship between administrative empowerment and organizational commitment: The mediating role of job satisfaction amongst academic staff in higher education. SAGE Open, 13(4), 21582440231218229.

Tashtoush, L. (2022). The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the relationship between supply chain strategy and organizational performance. Asian Journal of Economics, Finance and Management, 7(1), 1–17.

Tashtoush, L., & Fathi, A. (2022). The impact of service quality on corporate social responsibility and customer citizenship behavior in telecommunication companies. In 2022 International Conference on Data Analytics for Business and Industry.

Tashtoush, L. M. I. (2020). Impact on organizational commitment and organizational citizenship behavior in Jordanian universities. Near East University.

Kwakye, S., Ertugan, A., & Tashtoush, L. (2024). Navigating purchase intentions: The influence of reviewers’ comments moderated by risk and trust. Behavioral Sciences, 14(7), 552.

Mahadi Hasan | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award 

Published on by Invention Awards

Mr. Mahadi Hasan | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Mahadi Hasan | University of South Dakota | United States

Mr. Mahadi Hasan completed his BS and MS from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, and worked as a lecturer for five years before relocating to the United States for a second master’s degree. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate in the Materials Chemistry program at the University of South Dakota. His research focuses on the targeted delivery of anticancer drugs using smart nano-cargo of mineral particles, emphasizing synthesis modification and surface functionalization of nanomaterials. He developed a method for delivering veratridine into colorectal cancer cells using casein-coated carboxylated mesoporous silica nanoparticles and discovered a spongelike morphology of calcium citrate particles and calcium carbonate submicroparticles (400–700 nm), which are advantageous for drug delivery applications. He has also developed an undergraduate laboratory experiment modeling drug discovery and targeted delivery using calcium-based particles. His completed and ongoing projects include mesoporous silica nanoparticle-based targeted drug delivery against colorectal cancer, PEGylated MSNs and calcium carbonate submicroparticles as drug carriers, calcium carbonate nanoparticles as mineral sunscreen against skin cancer, and hydroxyapatite nanorods for gene transfer in plants. He has published 1 SCI-indexed article in Cancers (2025) on liver-specific nanoparticle-mediated delivery and MMP-triggered release of veratridine to target metastatic colorectal cancer, collaborating with Professor Dr. Khosrow Rezvani. He is an ACS member since 2022 and works at the intersection of organic chemistry, materials chemistry, nanotechnology, drug delivery, and biomedical sciences. His research contributes significantly to oncology by creating mineral particle-based gated drug delivery systems, advancing both fundamental knowledge and practical therapeutics. His work has 1 publication, with citations accumulating and an h-index of 1, reflecting his growing influence in nanomedicine and targeted therapeutics. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, he is moving toward commercialization of his technology, highlighting the translational impact of his work. His innovations provide practical solutions for colorectal cancer treatment while educating the next generation of chemists and biomedical scientists. His contributions span drug delivery, nanomaterial synthesis, particle morphology engineering, biomedical applications, and translational therapeutics. By integrating chemistry and biomedical sciences, he advances health innovation and sustainable therapeutic strategies. His research has established a platform for further exploration of mineral particle-based nanomedicine. His work demonstrates a unique combination of creativity, scientific rigor, and translational potential in cancer therapeutics, materials chemistry, and nanotechnology. He continues to collaborate with biomedical scientists to optimize nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for oncology. His developments in mineral particle engineering offer novel approaches for targeted, efficient, and controlled drug delivery. The focus on spongelike calcium citrate and submicroparticles ensures high payload capacity, biocompatibility, and therapeutic efficacy. He emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches that bridge chemistry, materials science, and biomedical applications. His contributions are fostering a new generation of mineral-based nanomedicine platforms with significant health impact.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Hasan, M., Eikanger, M., Sane, S., Wijewardhane, K. S. K., Slunecka, J. L., Freeling, J., Rezvani, K., & Sereda, G. (2025). Liver-specific nanoparticle-mediated delivery and MMP-triggered release of veratridine to effectively target metastatic colorectal cancer. Cancers, 17(19), 3253.

Hasan, M., Eikanger, M., Sane, S., Wijewardhane, K. S. K., Slunecka, J., Freeling, J., Rezvani, K., & Sereda, G. (2025). Liver-specific nanoparticle-mediated delivery and MMP-triggered release of veratridine, a potent pro-apoptotic molecule, to effectively target metastatic colorectal cancer [Preprint]. Preprints.

Dessislava Petrova-Antonova | Urban Digital Twins | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Invention Awards

Prof. Dr. Dessislava Petrova-Antonova | Urban Digital Twins | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Dessislava Petrova-Antonova | GATE Institute, Sofia University | Bulgaria

Prof. Dr. Dessislava Petrova-Antonova is a distinguished Professor at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski,” Bulgaria, specializing in Software Engineering, Big Data, and Artificial Intelligence. She earned her Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in Computer Science from the Technical University of Sofia, where her doctoral research focused on formal methods and optimization strategies for adaptive control of moving objects. With over two decades of academic and research experience, she currently leads the Data Management Unit at the GATE Institute, coordinating innovative projects in data modeling, semantic data enrichment, interoperability, and AI-driven models for smart cities. As the Head of the Master’s Program in Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovations in Information Technologies, and co-founder of the Big Data Technologies program, she has significantly contributed to developing interdisciplinary curricula that bridge technology and innovation. Prof. Petrova-Antonova’s research portfolio includes leadership and participation in numerous high-impact European and national projects such as GATE, EnrichMyData, DataPACT, INTEND, CU, deployEMDS, and FLEdge, focusing on data-intensive systems, urban digital twins, and smart city solutions. She has authored over 135 publications, including 98 conference papers, 37 journal articles, and 3 book chapters, indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, achieving an h-index of 12 with over 700 citations, reflecting her strong international research impact. Her expertise encompasses data interoperability, semantic enrichment, 3D modeling, and urban data platforms, contributing to Europe’s digital and green transformation goals. She played a key role in establishing Bulgaria’s first Urban Data Space under the International Data Space Association (IDSA), supporting the Future Cities research agenda. Prof. Petrova-Antonova is a member of IEEE, FIWARE Foundation, OASC, and OGC, and has led collaborative research with institutions like the University of Twente and Delft University of Technology. Her software engineering contributions include the design and development of several national-scale web-based information systems for the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Sofia University. Her academic excellence has been recognized with prestigious honors such as the Seoul Smart City Prize: Tech-InnovaCity 2025 for developing the Urban Digital Twin of Sofia City, along with multiple Best Paper and Poster Awards from international conferences, including ISPRS, IC3K, and ACM CompSysTech. Through her visionary leadership, Prof. Petrova-Antonova continues to advance research and innovation in big data platforms, AI ecosystems, and sustainable urban development, contributing significantly to Europe’s data-driven future.

Featured Publications

Lazarova, S., & Petrova-Antonova, D. (2025). Health-promoting behaviors in Bulgaria: A cross-sectional study on non-communicable diseases and lifestyle. Societies, 15(1), 15.

Shirinyan, E., & Petrova-Antonova, D. (2024). Large-scale solar potential analysis in a 3D CAD framework as a use case of urban digital twins. Remote Sensing, 16(15), 2700.

Campoverde, C., Koeva, M., Persello, C., Maslov, K., Jiao, W., & Petrova-Antonova, D. (2024). Automatic building roof plane extraction in urban environments for 3D city modelling using remote sensing data. Remote Sensing, 16(8), 1386.

Mitkov, R., Petrova-Antonova, D., & Hristov, P. O. (2023). Predictive modeling of indoor environmental parameters for assessing comfort conditions in a kindergarten setting. Toxics, 11(8), 709.

Lazarova, S., Grigorova, D., Petrova-Antonova, D., & Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. (2023). Detection of Alzheimer’s disease using logistic regression and clock drawing errors. Brain Sciences, 13(8), 1139.

Hristov, E., Petrova-Antonova, D., Petrov, A., Borukova, M., & Shirinyan, E. (2023). Remote sensing data preparation for recognition and classification of building roofs. Data, 8(5), 80.

Lazarova, S., Petrova-Antonova, D., & Kunchev, T. (2023). Ontology-driven knowledge sharing in Alzheimer’s disease research. Information, 14(3), 188.