Maria Urbaniec | Innovation | Editorial Board Member

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Prof. Maria Urbaniec | Innovation | Editorial Board Member

Prof. Maria Urbaniec | Krakow University of Economics | Poland

Prof. Maria Urbaniec is a leading researcher in entrepreneurship, innovation, eco-innovation, sustainability, and the digital economy, with an extensive body of work that significantly contributes to understanding how modern enterprises adapt and transform in response to technological and environmental shifts. Her research provides valuable insights into sustainable entrepreneurship, examining innovation-related activities within European enterprises and identifying critical drivers that support sustainability-oriented business models. She has extensively explored eco-innovation practices, particularly in the context of economic and environmental policy interactions, shedding light on barriers and opportunities that influence the adoption of eco-innovative strategies. Prof. Urbaniec’s contributions to digital transformation are widely recognized, especially her comparative analyses of how European countries navigate digitalization and the structural changes it brings to economic systems. Her work on corporate entrepreneurship highlights business model innovation within corporate accelerators, offering empirical perspectives on how organizations foster internal innovation capabilities. Additionally, her research on technological developments and remote work provides timely insights into managerial responses to digital tools and evolving work environments, particularly within dynamic European markets. Across her publications, she integrates the themes of innovation, sustainability, and digital advancement to demonstrate how enterprises can achieve long-term competitiveness while meeting environmental and societal expectations. Her findings not only advance academic knowledge but also inform policymakers and practitioners seeking to design effective strategies for sustainable growth, digital transition, and entrepreneurship-driven development. Prof. Urbaniec’s scholarly contributions continue to shape the discourse on innovation management and sustainability transitions at both national and international levels.

Profile:  Scopus  |  ORCID  |  Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Małkowska, A., Urbaniec, M., & Kosała, M. (2021). The impact of digital transformation on European countries: Insights from a comparative analysis. Equilibrium. Quarterly Journal of Economics and Economic Policy, 16(2), 325–355.

Urbaniec, M., & Żur, A. (2021). Business model innovation in corporate entrepreneurship: Exploratory insights from corporate accelerators. International Entrepreneurship and Management Journal, 17(2), 865–888.

Urbaniec, M. (2018). Sustainable entrepreneurship: Innovation-related activities in European enterprises. Polish Journal of Environmental Studies, 27(4), 1773–1779.

Urbaniec, M. (2015). Towards sustainable development through eco-innovations: Drivers and barriers in Poland. Economics and Sociology, 8(4), 179–190.

Urbaniec, M., Małkowska, A., & Włodarkiewicz-Klimek, H. (2022). The impact of technological developments on remote working: Insights from the Polish managers’ perspective. Sustainability, 14(1), 552.

Kai Tong | Renewable Materials | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kai Tong | Renewable Materials | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Yiwu Industrial & Commercial College | China

Dr. Kai Tong is a dedicated Lecturer at Yiwu Industrial & Commercial College, China, recognized for his scholarly contributions in the fields of renewable materials and engineering structures. He earned his academic qualifications from Chongqing Jiaotong University, where he also held various academic and invited positions that strengthened his expertise in applied engineering research. With a strong research background, Dr. Tong has focused on developing sustainable and innovative materials that contribute to advancements in renewable engineering practices and environmentally conscious construction methods. His research portfolio includes 24 published documents with a total of 235 citations and an h-index of 8, reflecting both the quality and impact of his scientific work within the academic community. He is actively engaged in professional memberships and has participated in collaborative initiatives aimed at promoting knowledge transfer and technological innovation in the materials engineering domain. Dr. Tong’s commitment to academic excellence and his pursuit of research that bridges scientific understanding with practical applications position him as a promising researcher in the evolving field of sustainable engineering. His academic journey and professional achievements highlight his contribution to addressing contemporary challenges in materials science, while his growing citation record underscores his influence among peers. Through his continued research and teaching efforts, Dr. Kai Tong remains devoted to advancing the frontiers of renewable material development and fostering the next generation of engineers equipped with sustainable innovation skills.

Profile:  Scopus  |  ORCID

Featured Publications

Zhang, H., Tong, K., Zhang, Y., Qu, Y., & Zhou, J. (2025, October). Research on quantitative detection method of internal rebar stresses in RC beams under cyclic loading based on force-magnetic coupling optimization model. Construction and Building Materials.

Zhou, J., Tong, K., Zhang, H., Hu, T., Zhang, S., Liao, J., & Wu, X. (2025, April). Study on quantitative assessment of stress state of RC beams based on force-magnetic coupling effect. Engineering Structures.

Tong, K., Zhou, J., Zhao, R., Zhang, Y., & Liu, S. (2024, October). Investigation on SMFL field distribution of different types of rebars under axial tensile failure tests. Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering.

Zhang, Y., Zhang, H., Tong, K., Gong, Y., Qu, Y., Zhou, J., & Zhang, J. (2024, January). A key contribution for concrete durability: Harnessing force‐magnetic coupling for stress state detection in reinforced concrete beams. Structural Control and Health Monitoring.

Zhang, H., Li, H., Zhou, J., Tong, K., & Xia, R. (2023). A multi-dimensional evaluation of wire breakage in bridge cable based on self-magnetic flux leakage signals. Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials.

Lourdes Casas Cardoso | Green Technology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Lourdes Casas Cardoso | Green Technology | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Universidad de Cádiz, Spain

Prof. Dr. Lourdes Casas Cardoso is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in supercritical fluids, advanced separation processes, and supercritical impregnation, with a strong focus on sustainable applications in the agri-food and biomedical sectors. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry from the Marta Abreu Central University of Las Villas (UCLV), Cuba, in 1996, followed by a Master’s in Organic Chemistry with a specialization in Natural Products from the University of Havana in 2001, a Diploma in Advanced Studies from the University of Cádiz in 2004, and a PhD from the same university in 2006. She began her academic career as a professor at UCLV, Cuba, where she served for a decade, before joining the University of Cádiz, Spain, in 2007, where she advanced from researcher to full professor. Since May 2023, she has held the position of University Professor at UCA. Her research has concentrated on the reutilization of byproducts and industrial waste using innovative separation techniques, including supercritical carbon dioxide and pressurized liquids, leading to significant advancements in green technologies. She has published 80 indexed articles, six book chapters, and participated in over 80 international conferences, accumulating 1,420 citations and an h-index of 26. She has supervised four doctoral theses, directed funded research projects, coordinated multiple industry collaborations, and co-authored three patents. Additionally, she has held leadership roles such as Coordinator of the Chemical Engineering Degree at UCA and has received recognition for excellence in teaching. Her career reflects a remarkable integration of research, teaching, and innovation.

Profile:  Scopus  |  ORCID  |  Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Otero-Pareja, M. J., Casas, L., Fernández-Ponce, M. T., Mantell, C., & de la Ossa, E. M. (2015). Green extraction of antioxidants from different varieties of red grape pomace. Molecules, 20(6), 9686–9702.

Fernández-Ponce, M. T., Casas, L., Mantell, C., Rodríguez, M., & de la Ossa, E. M. (2012). Extraction of antioxidant compounds from different varieties of Mangifera indica leaves using green technologies. The Journal of Supercritical Fluids, 72, 168–175.

Fernández-Ponce, M. T., Casas, L., Mantell, C., & de la Ossa, E. M. (2015). Use of high pressure techniques to produce Mangifera indica L. leaf extracts enriched in potent antioxidant phenolic compounds. Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies, 29, 94–106.

Fernández-Ponce, M. T., Parjikolaei, B. R., Lari, H. N., Casas, L., Mantell, C., & de la Ossa, E. M. (2016). Pilot-plant scale extraction of phenolic compounds from mango leaves using different green techniques: Kinetic and scale up study. Chemical Engineering Journal, 299, 420–430.

El Marsni, Z., Torres, A., Varela, R. M., Molinillo, J. M. G., Casas, L., Mantell, C., & de la Ossa, E. M. (2015). Isolation of bioactive compounds from sunflower leaves (Helianthus annuus L.) extracted with supercritical carbon dioxide. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 63(28), 6410–6421.

Hongwei Du | Green Technology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Hongwei Du | Green Technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hongwei Du | Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology | China

Dr. Hongwei Du is a dedicated researcher in materials science and metallurgical engineering with a strong academic background from Henan Polytechnic University and Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology. He has gained valuable experience through internships in metallurgy, manufacturing, and heat treatment, as well as participation in research on rare earth catalyst development under the guidance of a renowned scholar. Recognized with multiple scholarships and awards, he has also excelled in academic competitions. Alongside technical expertise, he is proficient in CAD drafting and English communication, demonstrating strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a commitment to advancing laboratory analysis and research.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Academic Background

Dr. Hongwei Du has built a strong foundation in materials science and metallurgical engineering through his academic journey at Henan Polytechnic University and Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology. His studies covered metallurgy, heat treatment principles, materials analysis, testing technology, and physical properties of materials. He gained practical skills through internships in metallurgy, manufacturing, and heat treatment processes, further supported by hands-on research in rare earth catalyst development under the guidance of a distinguished scholar. His academic achievements, scholarships, and competition awards highlight his dedication, while his technical skills and adaptability reflect his potential for impactful research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hongwei Du has cultivated significant professional experience through a combination of academic research, internships, and extracurricular engagements. He worked with metallurgical companies where he gained practical exposure to manufacturing, forging, and heat treatment processes, enriching his technical expertise in materials science. His research on rare earth catalyst development under the mentorship of a distinguished scholar strengthened his analytical and experimental skills. Beyond technical pursuits, he contributed actively to student organizations, competitions, and volunteer initiatives, showcasing leadership and teamwork. His professional journey reflects a balance of academic excellence, practical knowledge, and strong personal commitment to advancing materials research.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Hongwei Du has been recognized with several awards and honors that reflect his dedication to academic and professional excellence. He earned multiple scholarships for his consistent performance and was honored as an Outstanding Communist Youth League Member, highlighting both his academic and leadership qualities. His achievements in competitions, including top placements in mathematical modeling and metallography, demonstrate his problem-solving skills and innovative thinking. In addition, his certification as a senior CAD draftsman and proficiency in English communication showcase his technical and professional competencies. These accomplishments collectively illustrate his commitment to continuous growth and scholarly distinction.

Research Focus

Dr. Hongwei Du’s research focuses on advancing materials science and metallurgical engineering through both theoretical and applied approaches. His academic training has provided a deep understanding of metallurgy, heat treatment processes, materials testing, and physical properties of metals. Under the mentorship of a distinguished scholar, he contributed to the development and performance testing of rare earth catalysts, reflecting his interest in innovative materials research. He aims to integrate laboratory analysis with industrial applications to create solutions that improve efficiency and sustainability. His research focus demonstrates a commitment to bridging academic knowledge with practical advancements in material technologies.

Publication Top Notes

Phase Transformation and Si/Al Leaching Behavior of High-Silica–Alumina Coal Gangue Activated by Sodium-Based Additives
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Hongwei Du possesses a strong foundation in materials science and metallurgical engineering, combining excellent academic achievements with practical research and internship experience. His work on rare earth catalyst development under a distinguished scholar demonstrates significant research potential, while his consistent performance in scholarships and competitions reflects intellectual capability and innovation. With strong motivation, leadership, and technical skills, he is well-positioned to advance scholarly publications and collaborative projects, making him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

 

Zhijie Gan | Sustainable | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zhijie Gan | Sustainable | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhijie Gan | Economics School of Guangxi University | China

Dr. Zhijie Gan is a researcher at the Economics School of Guangxi University in Nanning, China, specializing in international trade, entrepreneurship, and climate change. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in International Trade and Regional Economics, having previously completed his master’s and bachelor’s studies in the same field at Guangxi University. His research applies econometrics and structural estimation, with publications in recognized journals such as Sustainability and Asia-Pacific Economic Review. Actively engaged in national research projects, he has received academic awards and scholarships, establishing himself as a promising scholar with strong potential in economics and trade research.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Academic Background

Dr. Zhijie Gan is a researcher at the Economics School of Guangxi University in Nanning, China, with a strong academic foundation in international trade, entrepreneurship, and climate change. He has pursued his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies at Guangxi University, focusing consistently on international trade and regional economics. His research expertise lies in econometrics and structural estimation, contributing to publications in journals such as Sustainability and Asia-Pacific Economic Review. Alongside his academic achievements, he has participated in national research projects and earned scholarships and awards, demonstrating his dedication and potential as a rising scholar in economics.

Professional Experience

Dr. Zhijie Gan is an emerging researcher at the Economics School of Guangxi University in Nanning, China, with expertise in international trade, entrepreneurship, and climate change. He has actively contributed to several national-level research projects funded by prestigious foundations, serving as a co-investigator and demonstrating strong research collaboration skills. His academic contributions include publications in respected journals such as Sustainability and Asia-Pacific Economic Review, reflecting his ability to address complex economic issues. In addition, he possesses strong technical skills in econometrics and structural estimation, supported by proficiency in software tools, positioning him as a capable and promising scholar.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Zhijie Gan has received multiple recognitions for his academic excellence and dedication to research throughout his academic journey at Guangxi University. He has been honored as an excellent student on several occasions, reflecting his consistent academic performance and commitment to learning. His achievements also include scholarships awarded for outstanding performance, further demonstrating his dedication to excellence in the field of economics. These honors highlight his perseverance, intellectual ability, and promise as a researcher, providing a strong foundation for his continued contributions to international trade, entrepreneurship, and climate change studies within the academic and research community.

Research Focus

Dr. Zhijie Gan centers his research on international trade, entrepreneurship, and climate change, addressing issues that have both regional and global significance. His work emphasizes the use of econometrics and structural estimation to analyze economic patterns and policy impacts, providing valuable insights into sustainable development and trade dynamics. By examining the connections between climate risk, agricultural productivity, and global market trends, his research contributes to understanding how economies adapt to environmental and structural changes. His focus reflects a commitment to producing impactful knowledge that supports policymaking, fosters economic resilience, and advances the field of international economics.

Publication Top Notes

The Impact of Climate Risk on Agricultural New Quality Productive Forces—Evidence from Panel Data of 31 Provinces in China
Year: 2025

Evaluation on the trade effect of the Second Package of Commitments of China-ASEAN Trade in Services Agreement
Year: 2023

Conclusion

Dr. Zhijie Gan is an emerging scholar at Guangxi University with expertise in international trade, entrepreneurship, and climate change. His academic journey from undergraduate to doctoral studies reflects consistent dedication to economics, supported by research in econometrics and structural estimation. He has published in journals including Sustainability and Asia-Pacific Economic Review and contributed as a co-investigator on national research projects. With recognized academic achievements and growing scholarly impact, he shows strong potential for the Best Researcher Award.

Elsadig Musa Ahmed | Environmental Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Elsadig Musa Ahmed | Environmental Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Multimedia University – Melaka Campus | Malaysia

Professor Elsadig Musa Ahmed is a distinguished scholar in development economics with extensive expertise in green productivity, digital and knowledge-based economies, bioeconomy, and the interface between economic growth, environment, and technology. Serving at Multimedia University, Malaysia, he has made significant contributions through high-impact publications, international research collaborations, and postgraduate supervision. Recognized among the world’s top scientists by Stanford University, he has authored influential works, secured prestigious research grants, and served on editorial boards and academic committees. His work bridges theory and practice, advancing sustainable development and shaping policy in both regional and global contexts.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Scopus

Google Scholar

Academic Background

Professor Elsadig Musa Ahmed holds a PhD in Development Economics from Universiti Putra Malaysia, where his research focused on the impact of air and water pollutant emissions on Malaysia’s manufacturing sector productivity growth. He earned a Master’s degree in Development Economics from the same university, completing a thesis on the productivity and performance of Malaysia’s food manufacturing industry. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Alazhar in Cairo, Egypt. This strong foundation in economics and development has underpinned his extensive research, teaching, and contributions to sustainable economic growth and policy development.

Professional Experience

Professor Elsadig Musa Ahmed has built a distinguished career at Multimedia University in Malaysia, progressing through various academic roles to his current position as Professor. He has taught a wide range of economics and business subjects at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, while supervising numerous doctoral and master’s theses. His professional journey includes leadership in research centers, coordination of postgraduate programs, and active participation in academic committees. He has also contributed as a reviewer, consultant, and editorial board member for high-impact journals, while securing competitive research grants and fostering collaborations that address economic growth, sustainability, and technological advancement.

Awards and Honors

Professor Elsadig Musa Ahmed has received numerous accolades in recognition of his outstanding academic and research contributions. He has been honored among the world’s top scientists by Stanford University and awarded for research excellence, best senior researcher, and outstanding paper presentations at international conferences. His achievements include the Sustainability Pioneers Award, recognition in the Emerald Literati Awards, and multiple best researcher awards within his faculty. He has also earned distinctions for his contributions to sustainable development, digital technology adoption, and economic research, reflecting his influence in advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and impacting policy at national and international levels.

Research Focus

Professor Elsadig Musa Ahmed’s research encompasses development economics, green productivity, and the relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability. His work explores productivity analysis, technological progress, technology transfer, and the role of digital and knowledge-based economies in fostering sustainable development. He has also investigated bioeconomy, microfinance, and tourism as drivers of economic growth, along with the intersection of economics and technology management. Through empirical studies and policy-oriented research, he addresses critical challenges facing emerging and developed economies, offering frameworks that integrate economic performance with environmental stewardship and technological innovation to support long-term sustainable growth and global economic resilience.

Publication Top Notes

Are the FDI inflow spillover effects on Malaysia’s economic growth input driven?
Year: 2012 | Cited by: 206

The impact of CO2 on economic growth in ASEAN 8
Year: 2012 | Cited by: 154

Factors influencing Sudanese microfinance intention to adopt mobile banking
Year: 2016 | Cited by: 125

The impact of ICT on East Asian economic growth: panel estimation approach
Year: 2013 | Cited by: 120

Green TFP intensity impact on sustainable East Asian productivity growth
Year: 2012 | Cited by: 111

Conclusion

Professor Elsadig Musa Ahmed is a distinguished academic with extensive expertise in development economics, sustainability, and technological integration. Recognized globally for his impactful research, he has authored numerous high-quality publications, led significant international projects, and successfully supervised postgraduate scholars. His work advances green productivity, economic policy, and environmental sustainability, influencing both academia and policy. With a strong record of leadership, innovation, and collaboration, he stands out as an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award, reflecting excellence and global research impact.