Anna Cavallaro | Psychology | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Anna Cavallaro | Psychology | Research Excellence Award

University of Bari | Italy

Dr. Anna Cavallaro, a PhD Candidate in Gender Studies at the University of Bari, is an emerging scholar specializing in developmental and educational psychology with a strong focus on study strategies, digital learning processes, and eye-tracking methodologies. She holds a Master’s degree in Modern Philology with a specialization in teaching, training, and research, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Modern Humanities from the University of Salerno. Her professional experience includes serving as an Adjunct Teaching Assistant in the Experimental Pedagogy and Educational Technologies Lab at the University of Salerno and as an Academic Tutor in Psychology of E-learning at the University of Bari, roles through which she contributes to instructional innovation and student mentorship. She has also expanded her international research experience as a visiting researcher at the University of Oslo. Dr. Cavallaro is an active member of a nationally funded research project on digital learning, where she investigates socio-cognitive and emotional-motivational factors influencing students’ engagement with digital materials. Her research output includes peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and contributions to edited volumes addressing gender stereotypes, inclusive digital pedagogies, and the integration of eye-tracking tools in educational research. She has presented her work at international conferences, delivered seminars, and contributed to symposia on technology-enhanced learning and gender studies. Skilled in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, she is proficient in the use of NVivo, R Studio, and eye-tracking technologies for data collection and analysis. Dr. Cavallaro’s academic achievements and growing portfolio of scholarly publications reflect her commitment to advancing knowledge in gender-responsive education and evidence-based instructional practices, positioning her as a strong candidate for the Research Excellence Award.

Profiles: ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Cavallaro, A., & Ligorio, M. B. (2025). Gender comparison of factors involved in self-study activities with digital tools: A mixed study using an eye tracker and interviews. Education Sciences.

2. Cavallaro, A., Ventrella, A., & Ligorio, M. B. (2025). Italian college students’ study strategies integrating digital technology: A multilevel analysis comparing gender and STEM versus non-STEM students. In Methodologies and Intelligent Systems for Technology Enhanced Learning (pp. 230–238). Springer.

3. Cavallaro, A. (2025). Il background teorico e gli studi sugli eye tracker. In F. Faiella (Ed.), Eyetracking glasses per migliorare la didattica. FrancoAngeli.

4. Cavallaro, A. (2025). Superare gli stereotipi di genere: Digital learning e pedagogia generativa per un orientamento professionale inclusivo e autodeterminato. Attualità Pedagogiche.

5. Cavallaro, A. (2024). Linguaggio e stereotipi: Osservazioni sui ruoli di genere nei libri di testo scolastici. Cooperazione Educativa, 3, 68–74.

Dr. Anna Cavallaro’s research advances evidence-based educational practices by integrating gender analysis, digital learning, and eye-tracking methodologies to better understand and support diverse learners. Her work contributes to more inclusive pedagogical models, informing policy, instructional design, and technological innovation in education.

Kaneez Fatima Dar | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Kaneez Fatima Dar | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar at Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, India

Kaneez Fatima Dar is a dedicated researcher in Cognitive Psychology, currently pursuing her PhD at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee). Her research focuses on cognitive reappraisal, inhibitory control, and emotion regulation in fear extinction, contributing to advancements in clinical psychology and neuroscience. She holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Kashmir, where she achieved 89%, and has a strong academic background, qualifying GATE Psychology (AIR-76). As a teaching assistant at IIT Roorkee, she has contributed to multiple psychology courses, mentoring students and assisting in academic assessments. She has also gained clinical exposure through an internship at the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Kashmir, and mentoring experience with the Kashmir Education Initiative (KEI). Kaneez has presented her research at prestigious conferences, including TeaP 2025 (Germany), European Congress of Psychology 2025 (Cyprus), and Neuroscience 2024 (USA). She has received multiple fellowships, including the MHRD Junior and Senior Research Fellowships, in recognition of her academic and research excellence. With an interdisciplinary approach integrating psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science, her work contributes to understanding fear extinction, cognitive interventions, and mental health applications, making her a promising scholar in cognitive psychology.

Professional Profile

Education

Kaneez Fatima Dar has a strong academic background in psychology, with a consistent record of excellence throughout her education. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Kashmir in 2017, where she developed a foundational understanding of human behavior and cognitive processes. She then pursued a Master’s degree in Psychology at the University of Kashmir in 2020, securing an impressive 89% and conducting a thesis titled “Life Satisfaction in Relation with Hope and Religiosity”, which explored psychological well-being and personal beliefs. Her academic achievements and research potential led her to qualify for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) in Psychology, securing an All India Rank (AIR) of 76 in 2021. Building on her strong research inclination, she commenced her PhD in Cognitive Psychology at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) in 2021, where she investigates cognitive reappraisal, inhibitory control, and their role in aiding the extinction of fear responses. She has been awarded prestigious fellowships, including the MHRD Junior Research Fellowship (2021-2023) and MHRD Senior Research Fellowship (2023-present). Her educational journey reflects a deep commitment to psychological research, cognitive science, and academic excellence, establishing her as a promising scholar in her field.

Professional Experience

Kaneez Fatima Dar has gained extensive professional experience in research, teaching, and mentorship, contributing significantly to academia and cognitive psychology. As a Teaching Assistant at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee), she has played an integral role in multiple psychology courses, including “Introduction to Psychology,” “Cognitive Ergonomics,” and “Psychological Basis of Behavior.” Her responsibilities involved conducting lectures, designing assessments, evaluating student performance, and assisting in course development, showcasing her ability to mentor and guide students in higher education. Beyond teaching, she has also worked as a mentor for the Kashmir Education Initiative (KEI), where she provided academic and career guidance to students, helping them develop their potential. She further expanded her practical exposure through an internship at the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Kashmir, where she gained hands-on experience in mental health research and psychological assessments. Additionally, Kaneez has been actively involved in various research projects related to cognitive control, fear extinction, and emotional reactivity, collaborating on interdisciplinary studies that integrate psychology and neuroscience. Her professional experience highlights her strong academic leadership, research expertise, and commitment to psychological sciences, making her a valuable contributor to the field of cognitive psychology.

Research interest

Kaneez Fatima Dar’s research interests lie at the intersection of cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and emotion regulation, with a particular focus on cognitive reappraisal, inhibitory control, and fear extinction. Her doctoral research at IIT Roorkee explores how higher cognitive processes, such as cognitive control and reappraisal, influence the extinction of conditioned fear responses, providing valuable insights into anxiety disorders and emotional regulation mechanisms. She is particularly interested in understanding how individual differences in fear sensitivity, emotional reactivity, and memory updating contribute to psychological resilience and vulnerability. Her research extends beyond fear and emotion regulation to cognitive interventions, such as the impact of mantra chanting on cognitive performance, which she explored in a project funded by the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) Division, Ministry of Education. Additionally, she has studied topics such as trait anxiety, movie preferences, and their effects on resilience and preparedness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kaneez’s interdisciplinary approach integrates experimental psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and psychophysiology, allowing her to contribute to both clinical applications and theoretical advancements in cognitive psychology. Through her research, she aims to develop effective cognitive training techniques and therapeutic interventions for individuals struggling with fear-based disorders and emotional dysregulation.

Award & Honor

Kaneez Fatima Dar has received several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of her academic excellence, research contributions, and scholarly achievements. She qualified for the highly competitive Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) in Psychology in 2021, securing an All India Rank (AIR) of 76, which demonstrated her strong conceptual understanding and research potential in psychology. As a testament to her outstanding research capabilities, she was awarded the MHRD Junior Research Fellowship (2021-2023), followed by the MHRD Senior Research Fellowship (2023-present) at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee), supporting her doctoral research in cognitive psychology and emotion regulation. Kaneez has also gained international recognition by presenting her research at prestigious global conferences, including TeaP 2025 (Germany), the 19th European Congress of Psychology (Cyprus), and Neuroscience 2024 (USA), reflecting her engagement with the global scientific community. Additionally, she has presented her work at national conferences, such as the Annual Conference of Cognitive Science at IIT Kanpur and the Indian Academy of Neurosciences 2024. Her numerous poster presentations, invited talks, and research fellowships highlight her exceptional academic record and significant contributions to the field of cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and emotion regulation.

Conclusion

Kaneez Fatima is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with an impressive track record in cognitive psychology, fear extinction, and inhibitory control. Her conference presentations, fellowships, and teaching experience make her an exceptional academic researcher. Strengthening her profile through high-impact journal publications, interdisciplinary work, and research grants could further enhance her candidacy for prestigious research awards.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Scope and challenges in the implementation of Time Bank in India: A qualitative study

    • Author(s): A. Verma, S. Sridhar, K.F. Dar, M.K. Asthana
    • Year: 2024
    • Cited by: 4
  • Title: Does cognitive reappraisal facilitate extinction?

    • Author(s): K.F. Dar, M.K. Asthana
    • Year: 2025
    • Cited by: Not yet available
  • Title: Inhibitory control training might be a gateway to enhance fear extinction.

    • Author(s): K.F. Dar, M.K. Asthana
    • Year: 2025
    • Cited by: Not yet available

 

Magda Osman | Decision Making | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr.Magda Osman | Decision Making | Best Researcher Award

Magda Osman,University of Cambridge/University of Leeds, United Kingdom

Magda Osman is a distinguished researcher in experimental psychology, currently serving as the Head of Research and Analysis at the Centre for Science and Policy, University of Cambridge. With extensive experience as a visiting professor at Leeds Business School, she combines academic expertise with impactful policy contributions. Dr. Osman’s research focuses on cognitive processes related to decision-making under uncertainty, making her an influential figure in both academic and practical domains. She has published numerous articles and books on topics such as causal reasoning, risk perception, and behavioral insights, reflecting her commitment to advancing understanding in these areas. Her leadership in various research initiatives has garnered multiple prestigious grants, allowing her to explore innovative approaches to complex decision-making scenarios. Passionate about translating research into actionable insights, Dr. Osman continues to shape the field through her dedication and scholarly contributions.

Profile:

Scopus Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Robust Academic Background: Dr. Osman has a strong educational foundation in Experimental Psychology, supported by a PhD from Brunel University. Her academic credentials underscore her expertise and credibility in her field.
  2. Extensive Research Experience: With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. Osman has held various influential positions at prestigious institutions. Her roles demonstrate her ability to lead and collaborate effectively across different research environments.
  3. Significant Funding Achievements: Dr. Osman has secured substantial grants for diverse projects, totaling millions in funding. This ability to attract resources reflects her research’s relevance and the trust placed in her by funding bodies.
  4. Impactful Research Themes: Her focus on decision-making under uncertainty, particularly in moral and policy contexts, addresses pressing societal issues. This research has practical implications, enhancing its impact on policy and public understanding.
  5. Prolific Publication Record: Dr. Osman has published numerous articles, books, and chapters, contributing significantly to the field of psychology. Her editorial roles and collaborations with other researchers further illustrate her influence in academia.
  6. Interdisciplinary Approach: Her work often intersects with various fields, including behavioral science, ethics, and policy-making, enhancing its applicability and relevance across multiple domains.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Outreach and Communication: While Dr. Osman has an impressive publication record, increasing engagement with broader audiences—through popular media or public talks—could enhance the societal impact of her research.
  2. Mentorship and Training: Expanding her role in mentoring early-career researchers or students could foster the next generation of scholars in her field, promoting knowledge transfer and skill development.
  3. Focus on Replicability and Transparency: Emphasizing research practices that prioritize replicability and transparency could strengthen the validity and impact of her findings, especially in a time when reproducibility is crucial in scientific research.

Education:

Dr. Magda Osman obtained her BSc (Hons) in Experimental Psychology from the University of Sussex, followed by an MPhil from the University of Cambridge. She then completed her PhD in Learning and Reasoning at Brunel University in just 2.5 years, showcasing her dedication and aptitude in the field. Throughout her educational journey, Dr. Osman has focused on understanding cognitive mechanisms and decision-making processes. Her academic training has laid a strong foundation for her research, enabling her to explore complex topics such as uncertainty, reasoning, and learning. This solid educational background, combined with her ongoing commitment to learning, equips her to tackle pressing issues in psychology and policy. As a leading figure in her field, Dr. Osman continues to influence both academic discourse and practical applications in decision-making, reflecting the depth and breadth of her educational experience.

Experience:

Dr. Magda Osman has an impressive academic career, having held various significant positions across renowned institutions. After serving as a Visiting Researcher at the University of Edinburgh, she worked as a Research Assistant at Royal Holloway. Her tenure at University College London spanned several years, where she rose from Research Fellow to Senior Research Fellow, eventually becoming a Reader in Experimental Psychology. Since 2010, Dr. Osman has held multiple prestigious roles, including Lecturer at the University of Surrey and Research Fellow at the Turing Institute. In her current role as Head of Research and Analysis at the Centre for Science and Policy, University of Cambridge, and as a Visiting Professor at Leeds Business School, she leads research initiatives focused on decision-making and policy impact. Her multifaceted experience in research, teaching, and policy engagement underpins her authority and influence in the field of experimental psychology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Magda Osman’s research primarily investigates cognitive faculties and decision-making under uncertainty. Her work encompasses various domains, including moral, financial, medical, and policy contexts, aiming to understand how individuals navigate complex situations. Dr. Osman explores adaptive mechanisms in causal reasoning, inductive reasoning, low-level motor learning, and problem-solving. Her commitment to addressing real-world challenges is evident in her studies on risk perception and behavioral insights, as well as her contributions to public policy. By examining how people make decisions in uncertain environments, she seeks to enhance the effectiveness of interventions and improve outcomes in critical areas. Dr. Osman’s research not only advances theoretical understanding but also aims to inform practice, guiding policymakers and practitioners in making informed decisions that reflect the complexities of human cognition. Her dedication to translating research into practical applications highlights her significant role in shaping the discourse around decision-making.

Publications Top Notes:

  • What Works: When & Why are Nudges Sticky, Scaleable and Transferable?
  • Complex problem solving beyond the psychometric approach.
  • Factors guiding moral judgment, reason, decision, and action.
  • What are the essential cognitive requirements for prospection?
  • Beyond reproducibility, making a psychological application safe to use.
  • Planning and Control.
  • Problem solving: Understanding Complexity as Uncertainty.
  • An integrative framework for mapping the psychological landscape of risk perception.
  • Public Evaluations of Misinformation and Motives for Sharing It.
  • The effect of risk communication on consumers’ risk perception, risk tolerance and utility of smart and non-smart home appliances.
  • Energy transitioning: why bother with uncertainty and why does risk tolerance really matter?
  • Energy transitioning: communicating risk to decision-makers.
  • Supporting effective shared decision-making in surgical context.
  • (Why) Is Misinformation a Problem?
  • Self-reported Side-effects of Ultraviolet-C Disinfection Devices.
  • Misdiagnosing the problem of why behavioural change interventions fail.
  • Using the study of reasoning to address the age of unreason

Conclusion:

Dr. Magda Osman exemplifies the qualities of a leading researcher through her extensive experience, significant contributions to understanding decision-making under uncertainty, and her ability to secure substantial funding. Her impactful work and dedication to advancing knowledge in psychology position her as a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. By addressing areas for improvement, she can further enhance her contributions to academia and society.