Eylul Ozdrak | Financial Economics | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Eylul Ozdrak | Financial Economics | Research Excellence Award

Research Assistant | Galatasaray University | Turkey

Eylül Özdrak is a Research Assistant and early-career scholar in accounting and finance at a leading public university, specializing in finance, financial economics, financial reporting, auditing, and ESG reporting. She holds undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral-level training in business administration and accounting and finance, with multilingual academic instruction that supports her interdisciplinary research perspective. Her professional experience includes active participation in nationally funded and institutionally supported research projects, where she has contributed to project design, empirical analysis, and scholarly dissemination, as well as collaborative academic leadership within research teams. Her research focuses on ESG reporting, sustainability performance, financial reporting quality, auditing standards, and the relationship between financial and non-financial performance, with publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals and international conference proceedings. Her work demonstrates methodological rigor and policy relevance, particularly in ESG-focused financial analysis and sustainability reporting. Recognition of her academic contribution is reflected through competitive research funding, growing citation impact, and her active engagement in the scholarly community within accounting, finance, and sustainability research.

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Prof. Mariano Luque Gallego | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Mariano Luque Gallego | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Full Professor at Universidad de Málaga, Spain

Mariano Luque Gallego is a Full Professor at the University of Málaga with a distinguished academic background in Mathematics and Quantitative Economics. Since 1995, he has built a prolific research career, marked by over 60 peer-reviewed publications, most in high-impact journals (63% in Q1), and a strong citation record across Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar (h-index up to 27). He has led more than 30 research projects and collaborated extensively with industry, notably through Math-In and agreements with Repsol and CEPSA. His research focuses on multiobjective optimization and decision-making, with international recognition through partnerships with leading scholars and invited talks worldwide. He also contributes as an evaluator for national and international academic institutions. As a mentor and innovator, he has supervised PhD students and co-authored software with registered intellectual property. His work demonstrates a strong blend of academic excellence, applied impact, and international collaboration.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar
Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

Education

Mariano Luque Gallego holds a strong academic foundation in mathematics and economics. He earned his degree in Mathematics in 1995 with an impressive average score of 9 out of 10. He pursued advanced studies at the University of Málaga, obtaining a Master’s degree in Mathematics in 1997 and a Ph.D. in Quantitative Economics in 2000—both with the highest possible qualifications. His educational background reflects a deep commitment to analytical rigor and interdisciplinary integration, especially in the fields of mathematical modeling and economic decision-making. His early academic performance laid a solid groundwork for his future research career, combining theoretical depth with applied problem-solving capabilities. These qualifications have served as the cornerstone of his professional and research development, enabling him to contribute significantly to the intersection of applied mathematics and economics.

Professional Experience

Since 1995, Mariano Luque Gallego has been affiliated with the Department of Applied Economics at the University of Málaga. Over the years, he has demonstrated steady academic progression, culminating in his appointment as Full Professor in October 2015. He was accredited for this role in 2012, underscoring both his academic qualifications and institutional recognition. His career spans over two decades, marked by active participation in over 30 research projects, all led by him since 2010. In addition to his teaching and research responsibilities, he has served as an evaluator for various academic and government bodies in Spain and internationally. His professional experience also includes collaborations with industries through research and development agreements, showcasing his capacity to bridge academic theory and real-world application. His long-standing presence in academia, combined with leadership roles in project management and evaluation, reflects a mature and well-rounded professional trajectory.

Research Interest

Mariano Luque Gallego’s primary research interests lie in multiobjective optimization, decision-making, and quantitative methods in economics. His work is particularly focused on Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) and Evolutionary Multiobjective Optimization (EMO), where he has contributed substantially through both theoretical advancements and practical applications. He has co-authored research with internationally renowned experts such as Kalyanmoy Deb, Kaisa Miettinen, and Ralph E. Steuer. His interest in applied mathematics also extends to collaborative industrial research, software development, and the integration of mathematical models in economic decision frameworks. As a principal investigator in numerous national and European research projects, he has consistently translated complex mathematical theories into tools for solving real-world economic problems. His interdisciplinary focus and consistent publication record (with a majority in Q1 journals) demonstrate a robust and evolving research agenda that continues to shape the field of applied quantitative economics.

Award and Honor

While no singular award title is listed, Mariano Luque Gallego’s career is decorated with a variety of significant academic honors and recognitions. He holds four recognized six-year research evaluation periods (sexenios) and one transfer period, granted by the Spanish national academic system—clear indicators of sustained research excellence. He has been invited to present at prestigious institutions and high-level academic meetings such as the Dagstuhl seminars on MCDM and EMO, which only select top researchers in the field. He has also served as an evaluator for leading academic institutions and national research agencies in Spain and abroad, including the University of Manchester and the Romanian National Council for Research. Additionally, his research collaborations with industry and contributions to registered software intellectual property reflect peer and institutional recognition of his innovative work. These cumulative distinctions affirm his high standing within both academic and professional research communities.

Conclusion

Mariano Luque Gallego stands out as a highly accomplished academic and researcher with deep expertise in mathematics and quantitative economics. His career reflects a seamless integration of advanced theoretical knowledge and real-world application, underpinned by a consistent track record of high-impact publications, successful research leadership, and meaningful collaborations with both academia and industry. His sustained output in top-tier journals, international partnerships, and commitment to mentoring emerging scholars underscore his influence in the field. With a strong foundation in education, decades of professional dedication, and well-defined research interests in multiobjective decision-making, he embodies the qualities of a leading researcher. While he already commands significant respect within academic circles, his ongoing contributions position him as an ideal candidate for top-level recognition such as the Best Researcher Award. His profile reflects not only past achievements but also continued promise for impactful future research and collaboration.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Evolutionary multi-objective optimization algorithms for fuzzy portfolio selection
    Authors: R. Saborido, A.B. Ruiz, J.D. Bermúdez, E. Vercher, M. Luque
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 152

  • Title: A preference-based evolutionary algorithm for multiobjective optimization: the weighting achievement scalarizing function genetic algorithm
    Authors: A.B. Ruiz, R. Saborido, M. Luque
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 151

  • Title: Incorporating preference information in interactive reference point methods for multiobjective optimization
    Authors: M. Luque, K. Miettinen, P. Eskelinen, F. Ruiz
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 145

  • Title: NAUTILUS method: An interactive technique in multiobjective optimization based on the nadir point
    Authors: K. Miettinen, P. Eskelinen, F. Ruiz, M. Luque
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 113

  • Title: Assessing global competitiveness under multi-criteria perspective
    Authors: S. Pérez-Moreno, B. Rodríguez, M. Luque
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 108

  • Title: An application of reference point techniques to the calculation of synthetic sustainability indicators
    Authors: F. Ruiz, J.M. Cabello, M. Luque
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 87

  • Title: Global formulation for interactive multiobjective optimization
    Authors: M. Luque, F. Ruiz, K. Miettinen
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 79

  • Title: Global WASF-GA: An evolutionary algorithm in multiobjective optimization to approximate the whole Pareto optimal front
    Authors: R. Saborido, A.B. Ruiz, M. Luque
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 74

  • Title: Optimization of the size of a solar thermal electricity plant by means of genetic algorithms
    Authors: J.M. Cabello, J.M. Cejudo, M. Luque, F. Ruiz, K. Deb, R. Tewari
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 73

  • Title: Using interactive multiobjective methods to solve DEA problems with value judgements
    Authors: B.Y.H. Wong, M. Luque, J.B. Yang
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 66

  • Title: A classification of the weighting schemes in reference point procedures for multiobjective programming
    Authors: F. Ruiz, M. Luque, J.M. Cabello
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 65

  • Title: Modified interactive Chebyshev algorithm (MICA) for convex multiobjective programming
    Authors: M. Luque, F. Ruiz, R.E. Steuer
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 42

  • Title: InDM2: Interactive dynamic multi-objective decision making using evolutionary algorithms
    Authors: A.J. Nebro, A.B. Ruiz, C. Barba-González, J. García-Nieto, M. Luque, et al.
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 41

  • Title: PROMOIN: an interactive system for multiobjective programming
    Authors: R. Caballero, M. Luque, J. Molina, F. Ruiz
    Year: 2002
    Citations: 39

  • Title: E-NAUTILUS: A decision support system for complex multiobjective optimization problems based on the NAUTILUS method
    Authors: A.B. Ruiz, K. Sindhya, K. Miettinen, F. Ruiz, M. Luque
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 38

 

Dimuthu Punsara Colambage | Energy Economics | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Dimuthu Punsara Colambage | Energy Economics | Young Scientist Award 

Postgraduate Student, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka

Dimuthu Punsara Colambage is a dedicated electrical engineer, researcher, and lecturer from Sri Lanka, passionate about various aspects of Electrical Engineering, particularly in Energy, Computer, Electrical, and Electronic Engineering. He thrives in diverse environments, addressing real-world challenges and aspiring to pursue a PhD to enhance his analytical and critical thinking skills. 🌍⚡

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dimuthu earned his Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Hons) with a specialization in Electrical Engineering from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, in 2016, followed by a Master of Science in 2018. He is currently completing his Master of Philosophy, further solidifying his academic credentials in the field. 🎓📚

Experience

With extensive teaching experience, Dimuthu has served as a Lecturer and Academic Coordinator at the Royal Institute of Colombo and the University of Vocational Technology, where he taught a range of modules in Electrical Engineering. He has also worked as a Research Assistant at the University of Moratuwa and interned as a Trainee Electrical Engineer at Ceylon Electricity Board and Resource Management Associates. 👨‍🏫💼

Research Focus

His research primarily focuses on addressing practical problems in electrical engineering, with notable contributions to topics such as electricity generation costs, economic impacts of electricity interruptions, and the value of water in generation planning. His work aims to contribute to the sustainable energy landscape in Sri Lanka. 🔍💡

Awards and Honours

Dimuthu has been recognized for his research excellence, receiving multiple Senate Research Grant (SRC) awards and a National Science Foundation (NSF) travel grant. His academic contributions underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge in electrical engineering. 🏆🎖️

Publication Top Notes

Dimuthu has published several impactful articles, including:

Analysing the Impact of Diverse Factors on Electricity Generation Cost: Insights from Sri Lanka (2024) in Energy Journal.

Economic Impact of Electricity Interruptions: A Case Study Based on Sri Lanka (2022) in American Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems.

A Novel Approach of Exploring Water Value: A Study based on Sri Lanka (Accepted: 2024) in Engineer Journal of IESL.

Exploring the Dynamic Landscape of Economic Dispatch: A Comprehensive Review of Stochastic Programming Techniques (Submitted to Renewable Energy Journal).

Seasonal and Time-of-Day Electricity Costing: A Case Study of Sri Lanka (Submitted to The Electrical Engineering Journal).

Dawuda Usman Kaku | IMPACT ASSESSMENT | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Dawuda Usman Kaku | IMPACT ASSESSMENT | Best Researcher Award

Research Student, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Dawuda Usman Kaku is an emerging environmental science researcher from Ghana, currently pursuing his PhD at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences. With a passion for sustainability and a deep commitment to addressing complex environmental challenges, Dawuda has developed a reputation for his innovative research and dedication to environmental improvement. He combines his technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills, enabling him to build lasting professional relationships and work effectively as part of a team. 🌍

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

Dawuda Usman Kaku is a commendable candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” due to his extensive academic background and diverse research experience in environmental science. His PhD candidacy at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences and his Master’s in Environmental Science from Northeast Normal University underline his strong academic foundation and dedication to the field. Kaku has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications in reputable international journals, demonstrating his active engagement in environmental research and contributions to understanding ecological impacts, such as his work on assessing environmental impacts of large-scale gold mining and flood susceptibility in tropical deserts. His ongoing project on heavy metal pollution further highlights his commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges. Moreover, Kaku has been recognized with multiple awards and honors, including the NENU Outstanding International Graduate award and several accolades for his academic and leadership abilities, indicating his all-around excellence as a researcher and community leader.

Areas for Improvement

While Dawuda Usman Kaku has a strong research background, there are some areas for potential improvement that could enhance his candidacy for the “Best Researcher Award.” Firstly, while his publications are diverse, focusing on broadening his research scope to include more interdisciplinary studies could significantly enhance his profile as a researcher. Engaging in collaborative projects with researchers from different fields could lead to innovative approaches and solutions to environmental problems. Secondly, expanding his technical skills in data analysis and environmental modeling, particularly in advanced GIS and statistical software, could provide him with the tools necessary to conduct more complex and comprehensive environmental assessments. Lastly, enhancing his proficiency in Chinese could also be beneficial, as it would allow him to engage more deeply with the local scientific community in China and access a wider range of research materials.

Education

Dawuda’s academic journey in environmental science began with a Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Development Studies from the University for Development Studies in Ghana. He furthered his education with a Master of Science in Environmental Science from Northeast Normal University in China, where he was recognized as an outstanding international graduate. He is currently a PhD candidate at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, focusing on environmental science at the Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research (IGSNRR), where he continues to deepen his expertise and contribute to the field. 🎓

Experience

Dawuda has diverse professional experience across various sectors, including academia, government, and non-profit organizations. He has served as a research assistant, office administrator, and teacher, demonstrating his versatility and ability to adapt to different environments. His work at the Ellembelle District Assembly and Qianhe Education Technology Services in China reflects his commitment to environmental education and public service. In addition, Dawuda’s role as a football referee since 2015 showcases his leadership skills and ability to manage high-pressure situations. 🏫

Research Interests

Dawuda’s research interests lie in understanding and mitigating the ecological impacts of human activities, with a focus on urbanization, mining, and pollution. His work often involves interdisciplinary approaches, combining field studies with advanced data analysis techniques to address environmental degradation and promote sustainability. Dawuda is particularly interested in the ecological risks associated with heavy metal pollution from mining and the effects of industrialization on wetland ecosystems. His ongoing projects aim to provide actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to protect and restore natural environments. 🔬

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic and professional career, Dawuda has received several awards that highlight his dedication and excellence. These include the ANSO Scholarship for Young Talents, the Chinese Government Scholarship, and recognition as an Outstanding International Graduate at Northeast Normal University. His achievements also extend to creative pursuits, having won prizes in photography and essay contests. These honors underscore Dawuda’s diverse talents and his commitment to continuous personal and professional development. 🏅

Publications Top Notes

Dawuda has co-authored several peer-reviewed articles in prestigious journals, contributing valuable insights to the field of environmental science. His publications include:

An Integrated Approach to Assess the Environmental Impacts of Large-Scale Gold Mining: The Nzema-Gold Mines in the Ellembelle District of Ghana as a Case Study (2021, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health)

Procedures from Samples to Sulfur Isotopic Data: A Review (2024, Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry)

Assessment Analysis of Flood Susceptibility in Tropical Desert Area: A Case Study of Yemen (2022, Remote Sensing)

Establishment of Rainfall Intensity-Duration-Frequency Equations and Curves Used to Design an Appropriate and Sustainable Hydraulic Structure for Controlling Flood in Nyabugogo Catchment-Rwanda (2022, World Journal of Engineering Research and Technology)

Challenges of Mask Pollutants to Our Environment During COVID-19 Pandemic Period (2021, American Journal of Environment and Sustainable Development).

Conclusion

Overall, Dawuda Usman Kaku is a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award,” given his significant contributions to environmental science research, his commitment to improving environmental quality and sustainability, and his academic achievements. His proactive approach to research and dedication to continuous learning are evident in his academic and professional journey. While there are areas where he could further enhance his skill set and research scope, his current achievements and ongoing projects make him a worthy contender for the award. With continued focus on interdisciplinary research and skill development, Kaku has the potential to make even greater contributions to the field of environmental science.

Sangmok Kang | c | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Sangmok Kang | Environmental economics | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Pusan National University, South Korea

Professor Sangmok Kang is a distinguished academic currently serving as a Professor in the Department of Economics at Pusan National University. With a career spanning several decades, he has made significant contributions to environmental and resource economics, efficiency and productivity, and regional economics. His extensive research and leadership roles in various national and international institutions underscore his commitment to advancing economic science and policy.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths

Extensive Research Experience: Professor Kang has a robust background in various research roles, including visiting scholar positions at prestigious universities and involvement in multiple research institutes. This broad experience highlights his deep engagement with economic research and policy analysis.

Diverse Specializations: His research spans several important areas such as environmental and resource economics, efficiency and productivity, applied microeconomics, and regional economics. This diversity underscores his ability to address complex economic issues from multiple perspectives.

Publication Record: Professor Kang has an impressive list of publications in respected journals. His work includes articles on environmental efficiency, carbon neutrality, and energy intensity, reflecting a strong focus on contemporary and relevant economic issues.

Recognition and Awards: His receipt of several “Best Article Awards” and other honors demonstrates recognition from the academic community for the quality and impact of his research.

Leadership and Service: He has held various leadership roles, such as Dean of the College of Economics and International Trade and Director of the Institute of Management & Economics. His extensive involvement in academic and advisory committees further shows his commitment to advancing the field of economics.

International Collaboration: His experience as a visiting scholar at institutions in the U.S. and China indicates a strong international perspective and collaboration, which is valuable in a globalized research environment.

Areas for Improvement

Broader Impact Metrics: While his CV showcases numerous awards and publications, a more detailed account of the impact of his research (e.g., citations, policy changes influenced, practical applications) would provide a fuller picture of his contributions.

Interdisciplinary Work: Incorporating more interdisciplinary approaches or collaborations could enhance his research’s relevance and applicability across different fields and sectors.

Current Trends and Emerging Topics: Engaging more explicitly with emerging topics in economics, such as digital transformation or advanced data analytics, might further strengthen his profile and keep his research at the forefront of the field.

Education 🎓

Professor Kang earned his Ph.D. in Economics from Pusan National University in 1993, with a dissertation on “An Economic Study on the Firm’s Violation Behavior of Pollution Discharge Standard.” He also holds an M.A. in Economics (1986) and a B.A. in Economics (1984), both from the same institution, where he explored regional income disparities and other economic issues.

Experience 💼

Professor Kang’s career includes significant roles such as Dean of the College of Economics and International Trade and the Graduate School of International Studies at Pusan National University. His research experience spans positions as a visiting scholar at institutions like the University of Chicago, Purdue University, and the University of Connecticut. He has also contributed to major research projects as a Chief Project Analyst and Deputy Director in various organizations.

Research Interests 🔬

Professor Kang’s research interests are centered on environmental and resource economics, efficiency and productivity, applied microeconomics, and regional economics. He has extensively studied topics such as carbon neutrality, environmental efficiency, and the impact of economic policies on productivity and growth.

Awards 🏆

Professor Kang has been recognized with multiple awards for his exceptional contributions to economics, including:

Best Article Award from The Korean Environmental Economic Association (2022, 2019)

Best Article Award from The Journal of Environmental Policy and Administration (Dec. 2014)

Best Article Award and Excellence Article Award from The Korean Spatial Planning Review (Dec. 2011, 2009)

Various other honors for his contributions to economic research and education.

Publications  Top Notes📚

Professor Kang’s notable publications include:

Li, Z., & Kang, S. (2024). Towards sustainable development goals: An analysis of environmental efficiency and the impacts of self-purification capacity across diverse income levels. Environmental Research, 261(15), 119678.

Kang, S., Li, Z., & Jeong, D. (2022). An Effect of Carbon Dioxide and Energy Reduction on Production Efficiency and Economic Growth: Application of Carbon Neutrality in Korea. Sustainability, 14, 17054.

Kang, M., & Kang, S. (2022). Energy Intensity Efficiency and The Effect of Changes in GDP and CO2 Emission. Energy Efficiency, 15(8).

Reimer, J., & Kang, S. (2010). Estimation of trade and domestic distortions: An application to world agriculture. Journal of Productivity Analysis, 34(4), 257-265.

Kang, S., & Yoon, S. (2009). Forecasting volatility of crude oil markets. Energy Economics, 31, 119-125.

Lee, K., & Kang, S. (2007). Innovation types and productivity growth: Evidence from Korean manufacturing firms. Global Economic Review, 36(4), 343-359 (SSCI).

 

Conclusion

Professor Sangmok Kang is a highly qualified candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” His extensive research experience, diverse specializations, strong publication record, and significant contributions to both academic and policy-making spheres position him as a leading researcher in his field. While there are areas where his profile could be enhanced, such as detailing the broader impact of his work and exploring emerging research trends, his overall achievements and contributions make him a deserving candidate for the award.