Firas Barraj | Construction and Building Materials | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Firas Barraj | Construction and Building Materials | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | University of Balamand | Lebanon

Assist. Prof. Dr. Firas Barraj is a distinguished researcher and academic in civil engineering, specializing in transportation systems, pavement materials, sustainable construction, and traffic management. His research emphasizes the use of recycled and waste materials in highway infrastructure and the advanced characterization of asphalt and pavement performance. Dr. Barraj has made significant contributions to both fundamental and applied research, developing innovative frameworks for mechanistic-empirical pavement design and probabilistic modeling of recycled asphalt mixtures. He actively engages with the global research community as an associate editor and peer reviewer for multiple reputable journals. Alongside his research, he is an accomplished educator, teaching a wide range of undergraduate and graduate courses in transportation engineering, sustainable development, and pavement design. His work demonstrates a strong integration of sustainability and practical engineering solutions. According to Scopus, his research impact includes 156 citations, 8 documents, and an h-index reflecting his growing influence in the field.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Hatoum, A. A., Khatib, J. M., Barraj, F., & Elkordi, A. (2022). Survival analysis for asphalt pavement performance and assessment of various factors affecting fatigue cracking based on LTPP data. Sustainability, 14(19), 12408.

2. Barraj, F., Khatib, J., Castro, A., & Elkordi, A. (2022). Effect of chemical warm mix additive on the properties and mechanical performance of recycled asphalt mixtures. Buildings, 12(7), 874.

3. Barraj, F., Mahfouz, S., Kassem, H., Khatib, J., Goulias, D., & Elkordi, A. (2023). Investigation of using crushed glass waste as filler replacement in hot asphalt mixtures. Sustainability, 15(3), 1–18.

4. Alhakim, G., Jaber, L., Baalbaki, O., & Barraj, F. (2023). Utilization of fan palm, date palm, and Phragmites australis fibers for improving the mechanical behavior of sandy soil. Geomechanics for Energy and the Environment, 33, 100427.

5. Barraj, F., & Elkordi, A. (2022). Investigating the effect of using unclassified fractionated reclaimed asphalt pavement materials on the properties of hot mix asphalt. Construction and Building Materials, 353, 129099.

Geng-Long Hsu | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Geng-Long Hsu | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Director | Hsu’s Andrology | Taiwan

Prof. Dr. Geng-Long Hsu is a distinguished urologist and microsurgical potency reconstruction specialist with decades of experience in clinical practice, research, and education. He has pioneered innovative surgical techniques and contributed significant anatomical and physiological insights in male reproductive medicine. His leadership in multiple research centers and academic institutions has fostered a strong culture of mentorship and collaboration. Dr. Hsu is recognized internationally through memberships in professional societies and numerous awards for both basic and clinical research, highlighting the global impact of his work. His research demonstrates a consistent focus on advancing urological science, integrating clinical expertise with experimental innovation. Through his contributions, he has influenced treatment protocols and surgical outcomes in male reproductive health. His measurable research impact is reflected in Scopus, with 1,521 citations across 68 documents and an h-index of 22, underscoring the significance and reach of his scholarly work.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. G.-L. Hsu, “Combining erection restoration and factual penile enhancement based on revolutionary penile fibro-vascular assembly,” Archivos Espanoles De Urologia, 2025.

2. G.-L. Hsu, “A detailed analysis of the penile fibro-vascular assembly,” Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2025.

3. G.-L. Hsu, “Coil embolization is not justified for treating patients with veno-occlusive dysfunction: Case series and narrative literature review,” Life, 2024.

4. G.-L. Hsu, “Emergent penile venous stripping for treating adolescent impotence,” Life, 2024.

5. G.-L. Hsu, “A case report of right cardiac ventricle perforation by uncontrolled embolization coil inserted for treating penile veno-occlusive dysfunction,” Urology Case Reports, 2022.

Chourouk Ouerghemmi | Business | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Chourouk Ouerghemmi | Business | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher at Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, Canada

Docteure Chourouk Ouerghemmi is a dedicated researcher and educator currently serving as a research and teaching assistant at the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi (UQAC). With a strong academic background in marketing, sustainability, and consumer behavior, she brings interdisciplinary expertise to both her research and pedagogical activities. Her work spans data analysis (SPSS, Nvivo, AMOS), ethics certifications, research design, and scientific writing. She actively contributes to projects promoting the circular economy and digital responsibility in Québec, and is engaged in science communication through workshops, training videos, and digital content creation. Her teaching experience includes undergraduate and graduate instruction in Canada and Tunisia, where she has developed and delivered innovative, student-centered curricula. In addition to her academic achievements, she plays a vital role in community outreach, policy initiatives, and the organization of scientific events. Her dynamic, cross-cultural experience and commitment to societal impact position her as a rising leader in research and education.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar
Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile

Education

Docteure Chourouk Ouerghemmi holds a Ph.D. in Marketing, supported by a solid academic foundation in management and consumer behavior. She completed her doctoral studies under the framework of an international academic exchange, culminating in a research internship at the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi (UQAC), Canada. Her academic journey includes formal education and training in both Tunisia and Canada, allowing her to build expertise in both theoretical and applied aspects of marketing, sustainability, and innovation. Her educational background is complemented by certifications in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including advanced proficiency in tools such as SPSS, AMOS, and Nvivo. Her academic path reflects a strong commitment to interdisciplinary learning, combining insights from economics, technology, and behavioral sciences. This blend of diverse academic experiences has provided her with the skills to analyze complex problems and contribute meaningfully to both academic and societal debates on responsible innovation and sustainable consumption.

Professional Experience

Chourouk Ouerghemmi has developed a rich and diverse professional portfolio across research, teaching, and academic service. She currently serves as a research and teaching assistant at UQAC, where she designs experimental research protocols, analyzes complex data sets, drafts grant proposals, and delivers lectures in marketing and consumer behavior. Her past experiences include teaching at the undergraduate level in Tunisia and Canada, delivering tailored support to master’s and doctoral students, and co-organizing high-level academic events. She has also contributed extensively to public outreach, including producing training capsules and managing digital platforms for research dissemination. Her professional roles reflect versatility, ranging from data-driven research to practical teaching applications. Moreover, she has actively participated in government-funded projects related to sustainability and digital responsibility in Québec, emphasizing her engagement with real-world challenges. These experiences position her as a well-rounded academic professional capable of integrating research, teaching, and community service in meaningful and impactful ways.

Research Interest

Dr. Ouerghemmi’s research interests lie at the intersection of marketing, sustainability, consumer behavior, and digital responsibility. She focuses on how consumer choices are shaped by environmental, technological, and ethical factors, particularly in the context of circular economy and responsible innovation. Her work often applies both qualitative and quantitative research methods to examine behavior patterns, assess marketing strategies, and design sustainable consumer engagement models. She has also explored themes such as sobriety, ethical digital practices, and societal resilience, contributing to forward-thinking research agendas such as Québec’s roadmap toward a circular economy and a sustainable digital future. In addition, her interests extend to pedagogy and science communication, especially through digital tools and open-access training resources. By engaging in interdisciplinary collaborations and public policy discussions, her research contributes to addressing complex societal problems through a behavioral science lens, making her work not only academically rigorous but also socially relevant and impactful.

Award and Honor

While specific award titles are not explicitly detailed, Chourouk Ouerghemmi has received significant recognition through competitive academic placements and participation in prestigious research projects. Her doctoral exchange at UQAC was supported by the Tunisian Ministry of Higher Education, demonstrating institutional trust in her academic promise. She has also been invited to contribute to high-profile initiatives, such as Québec’s participatory roadmap toward a circular economy (RRECQ) and intersectoral strategies on sustainable digital futures. These roles reflect peer recognition of her expertise and her ability to contribute to policy-shaping efforts. Her selection to evaluate academic posters and scientific papers, along with speaking roles at various colloquia, further underscore the esteem in which she is held by the academic community. Additionally, her leadership in training and mentoring students through tailored workshops and e-learning tools has established her as a respected figure in research knowledge transfer and academic support. These achievements collectively highlight her emerging prominence in her field.

Conclusion

Docteure Chourouk Ouerghemmi stands out as a dynamic and committed researcher with a growing impact in academia and society. Her multidimensional expertise—spanning marketing, sustainability, education, and data analysis—enables her to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical application. She brings a rare combination of scholarly depth, pedagogical innovation, and social engagement to her work. From designing rigorous research protocols to delivering inclusive and interactive teaching experiences, she embodies the qualities of a modern academic leader. Her involvement in national and intersectoral research initiatives further demonstrates her capacity to influence systemic change, particularly in the realms of circular economy and digital ethics. With a track record of interdisciplinary collaboration, policy-oriented research, and international exposure, Chourouk Ouerghemmi is well-positioned for future academic honors and leadership roles. Her profile reflects not just academic excellence but a strong dedication to making research a driver of sustainable and ethical societal progress.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Overview of factors influencing consumer engagement with plastic recycling
    Authors: M. Ertz, W. Addar, C. Ouerghemmi, M. Takaffoli
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 27

  • Title: The impact of virtual reality (VR) tour experience on tourists’ intention to visit
    Authors: C. Ouerghemmi, M. Ertz, N. Bouslama, U. Tandon
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 25

  • Title: Virtual Tasting in the Metaverse: Technological Advances and Consumer Behavior Impacts
    Authors: F.A. Moustapha, M. Ertz, C. Ouerghemmi
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 5

  • Title: Influence of atmospheric cues on the consumers’ behaviour: moderating effects of the aesthetic centrality of the store and the purpose of the visit
    Authors: A.A. Zarrouk, C. Ouerghemmi
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Impact of virtual reality on tourism (Encyclopedia entry)
    Authors: C. Ouerghemmi, M. Ertz, N. Bouslama, U. Tandon
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 3*

  • Title: Impact of the metaverse on sustainability in the construction industry
    Authors: M. Ertz, C. Ouerghemmi, Y.N. Njika
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Fostering Sustainability Through Digital Evolution: Evaluating Industry 5.0 Preparedness in Quebec’s Regional SMEs
    Authors: S. Vallée, M. Ertz, C. Ouerghemmi, A. Périn
    Year: 2025

Haiyan Kang | Network security | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Haiyan Kang | Network security | Best Researcher Award 

Prof Dr Haiyan Kang  , Beijing Information Science and Technology University , China

Kang Haiyan, a prominent Chinese researcher, was born in China and currently serves as a professor in the Department of Information Security at Beijing Information Science and Technology University. A senior member of the China Computer Federation and the ACM, he has been recognized as an outstanding talent in Beijing. With a Ph.D. in computer application technology from the Beijing Institute of Technology (2005), he is also an executive member of the Privacy Protection Committee of the China Confidentiality Association. Kang’s contributions to education have earned him multiple teaching awards, and he is noted for his mentorship of graduate students. His extensive research has garnered numerous provincial and ministerial awards, alongside 20 patents. Kang has authored over 110 academic papers and six monographs, making significant strides in network security, blockchain, and privacy protection.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

Kang Haiyan’s impressive academic and professional achievements make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With over 110 published academic papers and six monographs, his prolific output demonstrates a significant commitment to advancing knowledge in the fields of network security, blockchain technology, and privacy protection. His research has garnered six provincial and ministerial level awards, reflecting his impact within the academic community. Kang’s leadership as a professor and his role as chief of a national first-class major in information security further emphasize his dedication to education and mentorship. Additionally, his executive position in the Privacy Protection Committee of the China Confidentiality Association showcases his influence in shaping policies and practices in the domain of privacy protection.

Areas for Improvement

While Kang’s research output is commendable, there is room for broader international collaboration, which could enhance the global relevance of his work. Increasing engagement in interdisciplinary research could also provide innovative perspectives on complex security issues. Furthermore, focusing on enhancing public outreach and education regarding privacy issues could amplify the societal impact of his research.

Education 

Kang Haiyan obtained his Ph.D. in Computer Application Technology from the Beijing Institute of Technology in 2005, where he developed a strong foundation in information security and computer science. His doctoral research focused on advanced computing technologies, setting the stage for his subsequent contributions to the field. Throughout his academic journey, Kang has continually pursued knowledge in various aspects of information security, including network security and privacy protection. He has engaged in various professional development programs and has been recognized for his outstanding academic performance. His educational background equips him with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling him to tackle complex problems in his research. This strong educational foundation, combined with his continuous pursuit of knowledge, has significantly shaped his career as an educator and researcher, leading to his recognition as a leading figure in the domain of information security.

Experience 

Kang Haiyan has amassed extensive experience in academia and research over his career. Currently a professor at Beijing Information Science and Technology University, he leads the Department of Information Security, overseeing the national first-class major in information security. As an editorial board member of the Journal of Information Security Research and an expert reviewer for the National Key Research and Development Program, he plays a crucial role in shaping research direction in the field. His involvement with the China Computer Federation and the ACM highlights his commitment to advancing computer science. Kang has also contributed significantly to teaching, having received multiple awards for his instructional excellence, including national and local teaching achievement prizes. His mentorship has positively impacted many graduate students, further extending his influence in academia. With a solid background in research and teaching, he has become a respected leader in the information security landscape.

Research Focus 

Kang Haiyan’s research focuses on critical areas within information security, including network security, blockchain technology, and privacy protection. His work in network security investigates innovative methodologies for safeguarding data and mitigating cyber threats. Kang’s exploration of blockchain technologies aims to enhance the security and integrity of digital transactions. A significant aspect of his research is the development of privacy-preserving techniques, particularly through differential privacy and federated learning approaches, which have gained increasing importance in today’s data-driven world. His contributions have led to the publication of over 110 academic papers and numerous patents, reflecting his commitment to advancing knowledge in these fields. Additionally, his work addresses real-world challenges, ensuring that his research has practical applications. As he continues to explore emerging trends and technologies, Kang remains dedicated to fostering a secure and privacy-conscious digital environment.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Kang Haiyan, Wang Jiakang. Swarm Mutual Learning 🐝
  2. Kang Haiyan, Wang Xiaoshi. Research on the Deep Learning Method Based on Data Feature Relevance and Adaptive Differential Privacy 📊
  3. Kang Haiyan, Ji Shanshan. Hierarchical Stackelberg Game Swarm Learning Incentive Method for Wireless Edge Network 📡
  4. Xiaoying Qiu, Haiyan Kang, et al. A Privacy-Preserving and Intelligent Authentication Scheme for Next Generation-CPS 🔒
  5. Wu Jing, Haiyan Kang. An effective ISDPR rumor propagation model on complex networks 📈
  6. Kang Haiyan, Ji Yuanrui. Research on Time-Serial Location Data Publication Based on Local Differential Privacy 🗺️
  7. Kang Haiyan, Long Molan. Research on network attack analysis method based on attack graph of absorbing Markov chain 📉
  8. Kang Haiyan, Yange Yujie. An Enhanced Detection Method of PCB Defect Based on D-DenseNet 🖥️
  9. Yang Yujie, Kang Haiyan. An Enhanced Detection Method of PCB Defect Based on Improved YOLOv7 🔍
  10. Kang, H., Li, Y., Zhang, S. An effective differential privacy protection method of location data based on perturbation loss constraint 🛡️
  11. Kang Haiyan, Deng Jie. A cross encryption scheme for data security storage in cloud computing environment ☁️
  12. Kang Haiyan, Feng Yaping, et al. Research on personalised privacy-preserving model of multi-sensitive attributes 🛡️
  13. Kang Haiyan, Ji Yuanrui, Zhang Shuxuan. Enhanced Privacy Preserving for Social Networks Relational Data Based on Personalized Differential Privacy 🔐

Conclusion

Kang Haiyan’s contributions to information security and his dedication to teaching and mentorship position him as a leading figure in his field. His extensive publication record, coupled with numerous accolades, demonstrates his commitment to advancing research and education. By addressing potential areas for improvement, he could further enhance his impact on both the academic community and society at large, making him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.