Sinawo Mbangezeli | Environmental Economics | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Sinawo Mbangezeli | Environmental Economics | Research Excellence Award

Institutional Researcher | Nelson Mandela University | South Africa

Dr. Sinawo Mbangezeli is a researcher in economics affiliated with Nelson Mandela University, with expertise in applied economics, econometrics, and institutional research. He holds doctoral and postgraduate qualifications in economics, with specialization spanning fiscal performance, human capital, trade, environmental economics, economic convergence, growth, unemployment, and macroeconomic policy. Professionally, he serves as an institutional researcher, leading and coordinating large-scale research projects, conducting environmental scanning, producing high-level analytical reports, engaging stakeholders, and contributing to institutional decision-making through committee service and ethical review processes. He is also involved in postgraduate supervision in economics, providing academic guidance in monetary policy and macroeconomics. His research portfolio reflects strong quantitative and qualitative methodological capability, with proficiency in advanced statistical and econometric tools, alongside demonstrated contributions through academic writing, editing, and supervision. In addition, he has undertaken recognized training in research ethics, academic writing, and copy-editing, and contributes to scholarly quality assurance through academic editing and ethical review activities, highlighting his growing leadership and impact within the research community.


Featured Publications

 


Dried Fish Provide Widespread Access to Critical Nutrients Across Africa


Exploring the Deep Roots of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (Ekc): Evidence from a Global Sample

Mrs. Zhiying Ji | Environmental economics | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Zhiying Ji | Environmental economics | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor at Shanghai university, China

Dr. Zhiying Ji is an Associate Professor at SILC Business School, Shanghai University, with a Ph.D. from Fudan University. Her research focuses on environmental economics, corporate sustainability, digital transformation, and economic resilience. She has published extensively in high-impact SSCI and SCI journals such as Journal of Cleaner Production, Sustainability, and Heliyon, with work addressing critical issues like environmental information disclosure, carbon emissions, and infrastructure impacts on mobility. Dr. Ji has led national-level research projects funded by the National Social Science Fund of China, highlighting her academic leadership. With nearly two decades of teaching and research experience, she has contributed significantly to both scholarly knowledge and student development through courses in econometrics, statistics, and economics. Her interdisciplinary approach and commitment to policy-relevant research position her as a leading academic in her field. A visiting scholar experience in Australia adds to her international perspective and collaboration potential.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Zhiying Ji holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Fudan University (2001–2004), one of China’s most prestigious institutions. Prior to that, she completed her Master’s degree at Shanghai University (1998–2001), where she built a solid foundation in applied economics and quantitative research. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree from Wuhan University of Technology (1994–1998), where she developed her early interest in economic systems and industrial development. This strong academic background across three major Chinese universities provided her with both theoretical depth and practical skills. The progression from undergraduate to doctoral studies reflects her consistent academic excellence and commitment to scholarly growth. Her educational experiences have shaped a research agenda focused on policy-relevant economics, combining rigorous empirical techniques with real-world applications, particularly in sustainability, environmental policy, and corporate governance. These academic qualifications have effectively supported her long-standing teaching and research career at Shanghai University.

Professional Experience

Dr. Zhiying Ji is an Associate Professor at SILC Business School, Shanghai University, where she has served since 2005. She began her career as a Lecturer and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2009, reflecting recognition of her contributions in teaching and research. Over nearly two decades, she has taught core courses such as Principles of Economics, Econometrics, Business Statistics, and Multinational Corporation Investment. She also gained international experience as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in Australia in 2010, expanding her global academic perspective. Her career reflects a steady and productive academic trajectory marked by dedication to student development, curriculum innovation, and interdisciplinary research. Through long-term service at Shanghai University, Dr. Ji has played a critical role in enhancing the school’s academic environment and research profile, contributing both as a teacher and as a researcher in economics and sustainability studies.

Research Interest

Dr. Zhiying Ji’s research interests span environmental economics, corporate sustainability, digital transformation, infrastructure, and regional economic development. Her work explores how market forces, policy instruments, and technological changes affect environmental performance and economic resilience. A significant portion of her research focuses on corporate environmental information disclosure, the effects of digital transformation on economic systems, and the role of public infrastructure in shaping population mobility and development. Using robust empirical methodologies and panel data models, her studies address practical issues such as pollution intensity, energy consumption, and factor market distortions. She also examines the peer effects and policy implications in high-polluting industries, emphasizing the intersection of corporate behavior and environmental regulation. Her interdisciplinary focus positions her at the nexus of economics, public policy, and sustainability. These interests are reflected in her numerous SSCI and SCI publications and nationally funded research projects, making her a valuable contributor to both academic and policy-oriented discussions.

Award and Honor

While no specific awards or honors are explicitly listed in the available profile of Dr. Zhiying Ji, her academic achievements are nonetheless indicative of significant professional recognition. She has secured major research grants from the National Social Science Fund of China—an achievement reserved for scholars with demonstrated expertise and impactful research agendas. Projects such as “The Green Effect of Resource Reallocation under Supply-Side Reform” and “Synergistic Mechanism of Energy Transformation under the Double Carbon Goal” reflect national-level recognition of her research excellence. Additionally, her consistent publications in top-tier international journals (SSCI/SCI) signify peer recognition and academic credibility. Being invited as a Visiting Scholar to the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) further implies recognition of her scholarly reputation at the international level. While formal honors or titles may not be documented here, her funding success, publication record, and professional roles serve as strong indicators of her academic distinction and research leadership.

Conclusion

Dr. Zhiying Ji is a highly accomplished academic with a strong foundation in economics and a career dedicated to high-impact research and teaching. Her education from leading Chinese universities, long-standing tenure at Shanghai University, and diverse research in environmental economics and sustainability highlight her as a well-rounded scholar. With publications in reputable international journals and leadership in nationally funded research projects, she demonstrates both academic rigor and societal relevance. Her work addresses urgent global and national issues such as carbon reduction, corporate responsibility, and economic resilience. Although formal awards are not explicitly mentioned, her career achievements—backed by successful grant acquisition and international collaboration—speak to her influence and expertise. Her role as a teacher further complements her research, showcasing her dedication to academic development and student engagement. Overall, Dr. Ji is a valuable asset to her institution and a strong contender for academic recognition, including the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Notes

1. The Impact of Highway Infrastructure on Population Mobility: Evidence from a Sample of 800 Counties and Districts (2000–2019) in China

  • Year: 2023

  • Journal: Sustainability (Vol. 15, Issue 20, Article 14834)

  • Citations:

2. The Impact of Digital Transformation on Corporate Sustainability: Evidence from Listed Companies in China

  • Year: 2023

  • Journal: Sustainability (Vol 15, Issue 3, Article 2117)

3. Peer effect in corporate environmental information disclosure: Evidence from listed firms in China

  • Year: 2024

  • Journal: Environment, Development and Sustainability (Vol 26, Issue 12, pp. 32387–32407)

Sohaib Mustafa | Beijing Economics | Best Researcher Award | 3576

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sohaib Mustafa | Beijing Economics | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at University of Technology, China

Dr. Sohaib Mustafa is a distinguished academic and researcher in Management Science and Engineering, with a specialization in Human-Computer Interaction. He has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications, earning more than 820 citations and achieving an H-index of 18, reflecting the significant impact of his work in fields such as technology adoption, sustainable development, and supply chain management. Recognized with the Outstanding Graduate Award (2019–2023), Dr. Mustafa also serves as an Academic Editor for PLOS ONE. His international teaching experience spans institutions in Canada, China, and Europe, where he has developed and delivered graduate-level courses and supervised numerous research projects. Known for his collaborative and interdisciplinary approach, he actively contributes to academic development through mentorship, research seminars, and conference participation. Dr. Mustafa’s work demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing ethical technology use, fostering innovation, and addressing global challenges through academic excellence and sustainability-driven research.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar
Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Sohaib Mustafa holds a Ph.D. in Management Science and Engineering, where he focused on Human-Computer Interaction and interdisciplinary applications of technology in society. His academic journey is marked by intellectual rigor and global exposure, having studied and conducted research in diverse educational environments. His doctoral research produced substantial contributions to the understanding of user behavior in online platforms, technology adoption, and sustainable systems. Prior to his Ph.D., he earned undergraduate and postgraduate degrees that laid a strong foundation in systems thinking, research methodologies, and applied management sciences. His academic track record is complemented by his continuous learning through workshops, professional development programs, and international academic exchange. Recognized with the Outstanding Graduate Award for the 2019–2023 session, Dr. Mustafa’s educational background reflects both depth and breadth across technological, social, and managerial dimensions—equipping him with the skills necessary to address contemporary research and teaching challenges.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sohaib Mustafa’s professional experience spans academia, research, and organizational leadership. Currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at Université TÉLUQ in Canada, he is actively engaged in research, collaborative projects, and knowledge dissemination. His teaching roles at Beijing University of Technology, South Europe College, and other institutions involve course development, student mentorship, and supervision of postgraduate research. He has also served as an Academic Editor for PLOS ONE, overseeing peer reviews and promoting scholarly standards. Earlier in his career, he held management positions at The Urban Unit in Pakistan, where he led large-scale monitoring, evaluation, and field operations. These roles gave him hands-on experience in project implementation, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. With over a decade of academic and professional work, Dr. Mustafa blends practical insight with scholarly expertise, making significant contributions to education, research, and administrative functions in multiple international settings.

Research Interest

Dr. Sohaib Mustafa’s research interests lie at the intersection of Human-Computer Interaction, technology adoption, sustainable development, and data-driven decision-making. He explores how digital platforms influence human behavior, particularly in online Q&A communities and collaborative environments. His work also addresses broader systems like transportation, supply chain logistics, and green technology, with a strong focus on sustainability and societal impact. A recurring theme in his research is ethical technology adoption—understanding how innovations can be responsibly integrated into public and private sectors. He applies both qualitative and quantitative methods, including statistical modeling, system dynamics, and machine learning tools. Dr. Mustafa actively contributes to interdisciplinary projects, working with experts in computer science, business, and public policy. His vision is to use research as a catalyst for solving global challenges and improving organizational efficiency, policy design, and user-centered technologies in an increasingly digitized world.

Award and Honor

Dr. Sohaib Mustafa has been recognized with the Outstanding Graduate Award for the 2019–2023 academic session, honoring his excellence in research, academic performance, and contribution to the university community. His scholarly impact is evident through over 820 citations and an H-index of 18, reflecting the academic value and influence of his research outputs. He has also served as an Academic Editor for PLOS ONE, a prestigious role that acknowledges his expertise and leadership in the peer-review process. In addition to these formal recognitions, Dr. Mustafa has received commendation from students and peers alike for his innovative teaching methods, cross-cultural mentorship, and dedication to academic integrity. Throughout his career, he has contributed to international conferences, seminars, and collaborative research, further enhancing his reputation as a committed and impactful scholar. His honors represent both academic excellence and a strong commitment to community and institutional development.

Conclusion

Dr. Sohaib Mustafa exemplifies the qualities of a globally engaged researcher, dedicated educator, and effective academic leader. With a solid foundation in Management Science and Engineering, his contributions span research, teaching, editorial leadership, and public sector project management. He brings a unique interdisciplinary approach that combines technology, sustainability, and human behavior to address complex global issues. His academic influence is demonstrated through his publications, citations, and mentorship, while his leadership roles show a capacity to drive institutional progress and collaboration. Dr. Mustafa’s career continues to evolve with international academic engagements, active research pursuits, and a commitment to ethical and impactful knowledge production. He stands out as a model scholar with the potential to further elevate academic standards and contribute meaningfully to the global research community. His achievements position him as a worthy recipient of prestigious academic honors and future leadership roles in education and research policy.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Unraveling the Nexus Between Competition and Banking Efficiency in an Emerging Economy: A Two-Stage Stochastic Frontier Analysis Framework
    Authors: Muhammad Mateen Naveed, Tingli Liu, Sohaib Mustafa, Xiangtang Chen
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Upgradation of Customer Relationship Management Through the AI-Driven Approach to Personalization, Engagement, and Retention
    Authors: Khalid Jamil, Aliya Anwar, Sohaib Mustafa
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Exploring the Influence of AI Adoption and Technological Readiness on Sustainable Performance in Pakistani Export Sector Manufacturing SMEs
    Authors: Khalid Jamil, Wen Zhang, Aliya Anwar, Sohaib Mustafa
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Analysing the Impact of Digital Technology Diffusion on the Efficiency and Convergence Process of the Commercial Banking Industry of Pakistan
    Authors: Liu T.L., Naveed M.M., Mustafa S., Naveed M.T.
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Identifying Factors Influencing Industry 4.0 Adoption for Sustainability
    Authors: Mustafa S., Rana S., Naveed M.M.
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Mitigating Environmental Concerns Through Total Quality Management and Green Manufacturing Practices
    Authors: Gul R.F., Jamil K., Mustafa S., Jaffri N.R., Anwar A.
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Role of Domestic Renewable Energy Plants in Combating Energy Deficiency in Developing Countries: End-User Perspective
    Authors: Mustafa S., Long Y., Rana S.
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Why Do I Share? Participants’ Personality Traits and Online Participation
    Authors: Mustafa S., Zhang W.
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Using Social Cognitive Theory to Reengage Dormant Users in Q&A Communities: A Case Study of Active StackOverflow Participants
    Authors: Sohaib Mustafa, Wen Zhang, Muhammad Mateen Naveed, Dur e Adan
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Role of Environmental Awareness & Self-Identification Expressiveness in Electric-Vehicle Adoption
    Authors: Sohaib Mustafa, Yangyan Shi, Dur e Adan, Wen Luo, Eias Al Humdan
    Year: 2024

  • Title: A Data-Driven Markov Process for Infectious Disease Transmission
    Authors: Wang C., Mustafa S.
    Year: 2023

  • Title: A Moderated Mediation Model to Predict the Adoption Intention of Renewable Wind Energy in Developing Countries
    Authors: Mustafa S., Zhang W., Sohail M.T., Rana S., Long Y.
    Year: 2023

  • Title: How to Mend the Dormant User in Q&A Communities? A Social Cognitive Theory-Based Study of Consistent Geeks of StackOverflow
    Authors: Mustafa S., Zhang W., Naveed M.M.
    Year: 2023

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.