Tang-Chung Kan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tang-Chung Kan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism | Taiwan

Dr. Tang-Chung Kan, an Associate Professor in the Department of Travel Management at a leading hospitality and tourism institution, is a scholar specializing in service quality, customer relationship management, tourist psychology and behavior, and human resource management in the travel sector. He holds an advanced doctoral degree in China and Asia-Pacific studies with a focus that informs his multidisciplinary approach to tourism research. Throughout his academic career, he has contributed to teaching, research development, and collaborative projects that strengthen industry–academia linkages, while also engaging in leadership activities within his department and professional networks. His research has appeared in respected international journals across hospitality, tourism, marketing, recreation, and service management, reflecting both theoretical depth and practical relevance. He has contributed to knowledge advancement through empirical studies, conceptual development, and cross-disciplinary inquiry, earning recognition for scholarly productivity and dedication to research excellence. His awards and professional distinctions include acknowledgment as an outstanding researcher and involvement in academic service roles such as reviewing, editorial activities, and participation in professional associations that support the development of travel and hospitality scholarship. Through ongoing commitment to high-quality research and academic leadership, Dr. Kan continues to enhance understanding of traveler behavior, service innovation, and organizational management within the global tourism industry.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Kan, T., Ku, E. C. S., Sun, W. C. W., Lai, T. C., Hsu, P. Y., & Hsu, S. C. (2023). Wellness tourism enhances elderly life satisfaction. Journal of Quality Assurance in Hospitality & Tourism, 24(4), 402–428.

2. Kozak, M., & Kozak, N. (2015). Destination marketing: An international perspective. Routledge.

3. Kozak, M. (2013). Aspects of tourist behavior. Cambridge Scholars Publishing.

4. Kan, T. C., Yen, T. F., & Huan, T. C. (2009). Managing quality to influence loyalty. Anatolia, 20(1), 75–85.

5. Kan, T., Hsu, P. Y., & Ku, E. C. S. (2022). Promoting traditional local cuisines for tourists: Evidence from Taiwan. British Food Journal, 124(8), 2481–2496.

6. Kan, T. C. (2022). Perceived value, inter-functional coordination, and strategic adaptation: The perspective on selecting travel agencies from school travel plan. Journal of Tourism and Services, 13(24), 236–255.*

Dr. Tang-Chung Kan’s work advances understanding of traveler behavior and service quality, generating insights that strengthen decision-making in the tourism industry and improve visitor experiences. His research supports sustainable development, enhances service innovation, and contributes to evidence-based practices that benefit both industry stakeholders and society.

Liang Pei | Environmental Science | Editorial Board Member

Prof. Liang Pei | Environmental Science | Editorial Board Member

Director | Chinese Academy of Sciences | China

Professor Pei Liang, a distinguished researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is recognized for his expertise in environmental science, pollution control, separation technology, and chemical engineering. He holds advanced degrees in chemistry and environmental engineering, with academic training that established his foundation in analytical methodologies and sustainable process design. Throughout his career, he has served in key research and leadership roles, guiding interdisciplinary projects on pollutant behavior, advanced separation processes, and innovative control technologies while mentoring emerging scholars and contributing to institutional strategy. His research focuses on developing high-efficiency separation materials, pollution mitigation approaches, and environmentally conscious chemical processes, resulting in a substantial body of publications and highly cited contributions that have advanced both theory and application in his field. He has received numerous recognitions for scientific excellence and professional impact, and he has served in editorial capacities for respected journals as well as in memberships within national and international scientific committees and professional societies. With a strong citation record, a high h-index, and extensive contributions to environmental and chemical sciences, Professor Liang exemplifies scholarly leadership and enduring commitment to advancing solutions for global environmental challenges.

Profiles: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Lu, S., Zhang, X., Wang, J., & Pei, L. (2016). Impacts of different media on constructed wetlands for rural household sewage treatment. Journal of Cleaner Production, 127, 325–330.

2. Jeong, C. H., Postigo, C., Richardson, S. D., Simmons, J. E., Kimura, S. Y., … (2015). Occurrence and comparative toxicity of haloacetaldehyde disinfection byproducts in drinking water. Environmental Science & Technology, 49(23), 13749–13759.

3. Sun, Z., & Liang, P. (2008). Determination of Cr (III) and total chromium in water samples by cloud point extraction and flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Microchimica Acta, 162(1), 121–125.

4. Liang, P., Ding, Q., & Song, F. (2005). Application of multiwalled carbon nanotubes as solid phase extraction sorbent for preconcentration of trace copper in water samples. Journal of Separation Science, 28(17), 2339–2343.

5. Liang, P., Zhao, E., & Li, F. (2009). Dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction preconcentration of palladium in water samples and determination by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Talanta, 77(5), 1854–1857.*

Professor Pei Liang’s work advances innovative environmental remediation and pollution control technologies that strengthen sustainable water management and safeguard public health. His research delivers practical solutions for industry and rural communities alike, driving scientific progress in separation science while supporting global efforts toward cleaner, more resilient ecosystems.

Jan Vlok Nelson | Environmental Science | Outstanding Scientist Award

Mr. Jan Vlok Nelson | Environmental Science | Outstanding Scientist Award

Self employed at Mandela University, South Africa

Jan Vlok is a distinguished South African botanist and environmental scientist with over four decades of experience in plant ecology and conservation. Holding an MSc (Cum Laude) from the University of Natal, he has authored more than 50 scientific and popular publications and a book, earning over 1,700 citations. Vlok has made substantial contributions to vegetation classification and restoration, serving as a consultant to organizations like WWF-SA, SANPARKS, and CapeNature, with his work leading to land acquisitions exceeding R30 million. He is a recognized public communicator, having delivered over 300 outreach presentations, and has been honored with multiple prestigious awards, including the Marloth and Leslie Hill Medals. As a registered botanical scientist with SACNASP and a research associate at Nelson Mandela University, Vlok’s impact spans both scientific and practical realms. His lifelong dedication to South Africa’s biodiversity and environmental stewardship positions him as a leading figure in conservation science.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile

Education

Jan Vlok began his academic journey at Bellville High School, matriculating in 1975. He pursued his early tertiary education at Saasveld Forestry College, where he earned a Diploma in Forestry in 1982. Recognizing the need for deeper scientific training, he later completed his Master of Science degree (Cum Laude) at the University of Natal in 1997. His MSc studies provided a strong academic foundation in ecology and plant sciences, further enhancing his ability to contribute meaningfully to environmental research and management. Despite not holding a PhD, Vlok’s academic work and extensive field expertise have earned him considerable recognition within the scientific community. His education has supported a career deeply rooted in applied ecology, blending academic knowledge with practical environmental solutions. His continuous professional development and self-driven learning have enabled him to remain a respected figure in conservation, particularly in vegetation classification and restoration within South Africa’s diverse ecosystems.

Professional Experience

Jan Vlok has amassed over 40 years of professional experience in botany and environmental consultancy. He began his career in 1982 with the Department of Forestry, later transitioning to the Department of Water Affairs, Forestry, and Environmental Affairs as a research technician. From 1990 to 1997, he served as a regional botanist at Cape Nature Conservation, where he deepened his specialization in South African vegetation. Since 1997, he has operated independently as an environmental advisor through Regalis Environmental Services. In this role, Vlok has consulted for key institutions such as WWF-SA, SANPARKS, and CapeNature, contributing to major conservation and land acquisition projects. His expertise has informed numerous environmental impact assessments, restoration plans, and conservation strategies. As an expert witness in court cases and a referee for scientific journals and grants, Vlok holds a respected advisory role. His practical fieldwork and consulting achievements highlight a career defined by impact and integrity.

Research Interest

Jan Vlok’s research interests lie primarily in plant ecology, vegetation classification, and conservation biology, particularly within the unique biomes of South Africa such as Fynbos, Succulent Karoo, Forests, and Subtropical Thicket. His work is grounded in applied ecological research aimed at informing conservation strategies and land-use planning. A key focus of his studies has been the mapping and ecological description of vegetation units, often contributing directly to conservation priorities and land acquisition decisions. Vlok is also involved in ecological restoration, particularly in designing sustainable strategies for disturbed ecosystems. His work bridges scientific inquiry with real-world application, making him a sought-after consultant in environmental management and biodiversity planning. His communication of research findings to both scientific audiences and the general public reflects a broader interest in conservation education and public engagement. Vlok’s commitment to preserving South Africa’s botanical heritage is reflected in his continual research contributions, both independently and collaboratively.

Award and Honor

Jan Vlok has received numerous accolades recognizing his outstanding contributions to botany and conservation. Among his most notable honors are the Leslie Hill Medal (2003) from the Succulent Society of South Africa and the Marloth Medal (2010) from the Botanical Society of South Africa—both prestigious awards in South African botanical science. In 2006, he received a Gold Award from the C.A.P.E. program and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Western Cape Conservation Stewardship Association, further affirming his role in promoting sustainable land management and conservation. CapeNature recognized him in 2008 with a Special Award for his contributions to ecological assessment and stewardship. These awards reflect a career characterized by both scientific excellence and practical environmental impact. Vlok’s work is respected not only by academic peers but also by government bodies and conservation organizations, marking him as a leader in his field and a role model in South African environmental science.

Conclusion

Jan Vlok exemplifies the ideal of a scientist whose work extends far beyond academia into meaningful, real-world conservation impact. With over four decades of experience, his career blends rigorous ecological research, practical fieldwork, and a deep commitment to preserving South Africa’s rich botanical heritage. His contributions have shaped conservation policy, led to significant land acquisitions for environmental protection, and engaged both scientific and public audiences. Vlok’s numerous awards, consulting roles, and scientific publications reflect a lifetime dedicated to excellence in botany and ecological sustainability. Though lacking a PhD, his field expertise, advisory roles, and influence across conservation sectors underscore his unique value as a practitioner-scholar. His ability to translate complex ecological knowledge into applied solutions and public education marks him as a leader not only in science but in environmental stewardship. Jan Vlok’s legacy is one of action, influence, and deep care for South Africa’s natural world.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Parent versus seedling survival in Watsonia fourcadei (Iridaceae); testing a hypothesis on the survival strategy of a Cape geophyte

    • Author: Vlok, Johannes H.J.

    • Year: 2025

  • Title: New species of Euryops (Asteraceae: Senecioneae) from the Klein Karoo in the Western Cape Province, South Africa

    • Author: Vlok, Johannes H.J.

    • Year: 2025

Prof. Adão M. Sebastião | Sustentabilidade | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Adão M. Sebastião | Sustentabilidade | Best Researcher Award

Prémio de melhor pesquisador, DEGEIT – Departamento de Economia, Gestão, Engenharia Industrial e Turismo – Universidade de Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal / Universidade Privada de Angola, Portugal

Adão Miguel Sebastião is a Senior Accountant and an academic with extensive experience in accounting, auditing, and finance. He holds a Master’s degree in Finance and Financial Markets from the Universidade Gregório Semedo, Angola, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Accounting at the University of Aveiro, Portugal. Adão is a member of the OCPCA and CAPSA in Angola, and has taught at multiple universities. He has worked across various organizations, including El-Corte Inglés in Lisbon and Kixicrédito in Angola. His expertise spans financial analysis, auditing, and accounting systems. Adão is also actively involved in academic research and has presented at several international conferences, contributing to discussions on microfinance, corporate social responsibility, and sustainability. His research aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, focusing on the Angolan financial sector and broader African economies.

Profile

Google Scholar

Education 

Adão Miguel Sebastião has an impressive academic background, starting with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management, specialized in Accounting and Auditing, from the University Katyavala Bwila, Angola, where he received honorable mention in 2015. He further pursued Postgraduate studies in Pedagogical Aggregation at Instituto Politécnico Maravilha in Benguela, Angola. Adão earned his Master’s degree in Finance and Financial Markets from the Universidade Gregório Semedo, Angola, and is currently completing his PhD in Accounting at the University of Aveiro, Portugal, where he continues his research in financial systems and reporting. His academic journey reflects his commitment to deepening his expertise in finance and accounting, continuously expanding his knowledge and research in the field. Additionally, Adão has enhanced his skills with numerous specialized courses, including Corporate Finance, Financial Risk Analysis, and Microfinance.

Experience 

Adão Miguel Sebastião has extensive professional experience in both the academic and business sectors. He is currently a Senior Accountant and holds various leadership roles, including Head of Finance and Administration at Clínica São Vicente in Lobito. His prior roles include working as an Inventory Technician at El-Corte Inglés in Lisbon, and as an Accountant at Pluse Contas, Lda, also in Lisbon. Adão has also contributed as a Credit Analyst at Kixicrédito and a Senior Accountant at Peripesca, Lda. In addition to his professional experience, Adão has taught as an Assistant Professor in Management Auditing at the University of UPRA and mentored students in various accounting courses. He has been involved in research-oriented projects as a supervisor and trainer in financial management and accounting systems, including workshops and consultancy for local entrepreneurship initiatives in Benguela.

Research Focus 

Adão Miguel Sebastião’s research primarily focuses on the intersection of accounting, finance, and sustainability within emerging economies, especially Angola. His PhD research explores sustainability reporting in Angola, analyzing corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices and their impact on financial disclosures. He also conducts empirical research on the performance determinants of the banking sector in Angola, particularly the financial health and regulatory challenges of local banks. His other research interests include the role of Big Data and artificial intelligence in accounting and auditing, and the application of microfinance in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Adão actively contributes to academic discussions on financing strategies, financial risks, and auditing techniques, with a strong emphasis on corporate governance and financial transparency. His work aims to improve the effectiveness of financial institutions and governance practices within the African context.

Publications

  • “OS DETERMINANTES DA PERFORMANCE DO SECTOR BANCÁRIO: UM ESTUDO EMPÍRICO NO CONTEXTO ANGOLANO, ENTRE 2012–2020” 📚
  • “Aquisição de financiamento para a continuidade e desenvolvimento das PME” 📊
  • “O Papel da Auditoria na Análise dos Determinantes da Divulgação da Responsabilidade Social Corporativa” 🌍
  • “Estratégias de Financiamento para Potenciar a Investigação em Contabilidade” 💡
  • “Relatório de Sustentabilidade no Contexto Angolano” 🌱
  • “Auditoria Fiscal e Tributária: Importância e sua Aplicação nas Empresas de Benguela” 🧾
  • “Riscos de Crédito e Garantias Financeiras no Setor de Microfinanças” 💳
  • “Microfinanças: Uma das Fontes de Financiamento Eficaz para os Empreendedores em Tempo de Covid-19” 💼

Ermias Debie | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ermias Debie | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia

Dr. Ermias Debie is a dedicated academic in the field of Environment and Natural Resources Management, currently serving as an Associate Professor at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia. With a strong commitment to addressing pressing environmental issues, he integrates research with community engagement to enhance sustainable practices and improve livelihoods in the Northwest Highlands of Ethiopia.

Profile

Scopus Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Debie holds a Ph.D. in Environment and Natural Resources Management from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. He has furthered his expertise with a specialized certificate in GIS and remote sensing applications for water resources management from a prestigious institution in the Netherlands, showcasing his commitment to leveraging technology in environmental studies.

Experience 💼

With a rich background in academia, Dr. Debie has held various positions, including Assistant Professor and Department Head at Bahir Dar University and Debre Markos University. His roles have spanned teaching, research supervision, and course leadership, reflecting his dedication to fostering academic excellence. He has supervised over 50 MA and MSc students and is currently mentoring a Ph.D. student, further contributing to the development of future scholars in his field.

Research Interests 🔍

Dr. Debie’s research interests encompass a wide array of topics, including livelihood resilience, climate change and variability, food insecurity, climate-smart innovations, agrobiodiversity, and sustainable land management. His work aims to understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change while promoting ecological restoration across different levels.

Publications 📚

Dr. Debie has a robust publication record, contributing significantly to the field of environmental management. Here are some of his key publications:

  1. A local perspective on the links between flora biodiversity and ecosystem services in the Northwest Highlands of Ethiopia (2024), Journal of Environmental Management.
  2. Analysis of the decision to convert croplands into E. Camaldulensis woodlot and its impact on income diversification in Mecha district, Northwest Ethiopia (2024), Trees, Forests and People.
  3. Endemic plant species and threats to their sustainability in Ethiopia: A systematic review (2024), Trees, Forests and People.
  4. Effectiveness of sustainable land management initiatives in the highlands of Ethiopia (2024), Regional Environmental Change.
  5. The impacts of land use/cover changes on values of ecosystem service in Tul watershed, northwest Ethiopia (2023), ERJSSH.
  6. Perceived determinants of smallholder households’ resilience to livelihood insecurity in Goncha District, Northwest Highlands of Ethiopia (2023), SAGE Open.

His extensive publication list reflects his active engagement in scholarly research and contributions to understanding environmental challenges in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

Dr. Ermias Debie’s commitment to education, research, and community service positions him as a key figure in environmental management in Ethiopia. His work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also fosters sustainable practices that positively impact local communities. As he continues to explore new avenues for research and community engagement, his influence in the field will undoubtedly grow, driving forward the agenda of environmental sustainability and resilience.

Xinghua Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr.  Xinghua Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Ass Prof, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, China

🌿 Xinghua Liu is an accomplished Associate Professor at the Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences. With a strong foundation in environmental sciences and soil sciences, Dr. Liu has made significant contributions to understanding the interactions between organic matter and antibiotics in soil and sediment systems. She has published numerous research papers and holds multiple patents related to environmental sustainability and agricultural practices. Recognized for her innovative research, Dr. Liu has received several prestigious awards, highlighting her expertise in the field of environmental sciences.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Academic Background and Continuous Research Involvement: Xinghua Liu has a robust academic background in Environmental Sciences, with a Ph.D. in the field and continuous involvement in scientific research since 2018 as an Assistant Professor at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
  2. Extensive Research Publications: Liu has published numerous research articles as the first or corresponding author in high-impact journals such as Science of The Total Environment and Journal of Environmental Management. The topics cover important areas in environmental science, including soil and sediment contamination, antibiotic sorption mechanisms, and organic matter distribution, reflecting both depth and diversity in research focus.
  3. Patents and Practical Contributions: Liu holds multiple patents, including innovative methods for measuring soil particulate organic matter and integrated systems for managing livestock and poultry manure. These patents demonstrate a significant contribution to both theoretical and practical aspects of environmental management and technology.
  4. Recognition and Awards: Liu has received several prestigious awards, including the “Youth Science and Technology Award” from the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, the “Innovative Talents Outstanding Contribution Award,” and multiple “Major Scientific Research Progress Awards.” These awards highlight Liu’s impact and recognition within the scientific community.
  5. Successful Project Leadership: Liu has led multiple high-impact research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and other institutions, reflecting strong project management skills and the ability to secure competitive funding.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Focus on Broader Research Impact: While Liu has contributed extensively to the field of Environmental Sciences, focusing on soil and organic matter studies, there could be more emphasis on the broader application of this research, such as addressing global environmental challenges (e.g., climate change mitigation, pollution control). Diversifying research topics and aligning them with pressing global issues could enhance Liu’s impact.
  2. International Collaboration and Visibility: Increasing international collaborations and publications in globally recognized journals could further elevate Liu’s profile. Attending international conferences, contributing to global policy discussions, or engaging in multinational research projects would strengthen global visibility and impact.
  3. Enhanced Use of Modern Research Tools: Leveraging advanced analytical techniques and computational modeling could add value to Liu’s research, especially in quantifying environmental phenomena or predicting future environmental changes.

 

Education

🎓 Xinghua Liu completed her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences from China Agricultural University (2006-2010). She pursued a Master’s degree in Soil Sciences at Shandong Agricultural University (2010-2013) and earned her Doctorate in Environmental Sciences from the Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2014-2018).

Experience

🔬 Xinghua Liu has been serving as an Associate Professor at the Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences since 2018. Her work focuses on the environmental impact of agricultural practices, particularly the behavior of antibiotics in soil and sediment environments. She has also authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and developed innovative methods for environmental assessment and sustainable agricultural management.

Research Focus

🌱 Xinghua Liu specializes in studying the sorption and desorption mechanisms of antibiotics in soil and sediments, the spatial heterogeneity of particulate organic matter, and the ecological impacts of agricultural waste management. Her research aims to enhance sustainable agricultural practices through innovative environmental assessment techniques and the development of environmentally friendly agricultural technologies.

Awards and Honours

🏆 Dr. Liu has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Youth Science and Technology Award from the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences (2022), the Qilu Agricultural Science and Technology Award, the Innovative Talents Outstanding Contribution Award (Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences), and the Major Scientific Research Progress Award (2022, 2024). She is also acknowledged as a High-E-level talent in Jinan and a Jinan Licheng District high-end talent.

Publication Top Notes

📚 Xinghua Liu has authored several impactful publications, including:

Liu, X., Luo, Y., Zhang, H., et al. “Spatial heterogeneity of particulate organic matter for the sorption of ciprofloxacin at the microstructure scale.” Science of The Total Environment, 2022.

Liu, X., Zhang, H., Luo, Y., et al. “Sorption of oxytetracycline on particulate organic matter in soils and sediments: Roles of pH, ionic strength and temperature.” Science of the Total Environment, 2020.

XH. Liu, YY. Xie. “Sorption and desorption behavior and mechanism of oxytetracycline on soil aggregates organic matter separated from soils and sediments in the Yellow River Delta.” Journal of Environmental Management, 2024.

Conclusion:

Xinghua Liu is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Research Award due to a strong academic foundation, extensive research output, practical contributions through patents, and recognition through numerous awards. Liu’s dedication to environmental research, evidenced by leading multiple funded projects, further supports this suitability. However, to maximize potential, a stronger emphasis on global collaboration, diversified research focus, and enhanced use of modern tools could improve the candidacy for the award. Overall, Liu’s profile demonstrates significant strengths and promising potential for further impact in the field of environmental sciences.