Cristian-Dragos Varganici | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Cristian-Dragos Varganici | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Senior Scientist at ” Petru Poni ” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Romania

Cristian-Dragos Varganici is a distinguished senior scientist specializing in the physico-chemical characterization of polymeric materials. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, followed by a Master’s degree, and culminating in a Ph.D. from the “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of epoxy resins and multicomponent polymeric materials, with a focus on their thermal and photochemical stability.

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Education

Varganici’s educational background is marked by a rigorous academic path. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the Technical University “Gheorghe Asachi” in 2009. His commitment to the field continued with a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering in 2011. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Chemistry, completing his thesis on “Thermal and photochemical stability of multifunctional polymeric materials” in 2015, graduating with honors (Summa Cum Laude). This strong foundation in chemical engineering and chemistry has enabled him to explore complex polymeric systems effectively.

Experience

Varganici has amassed considerable experience at the “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, where he has held several positions since 2010. Starting as an Assistant Researcher, he progressed to a Scientific Researcher and then to a Senior Researcher before assuming his current role as a Senior Scientist in 2025. His work has involved extensive research on the compatibility and stability of polymers, contributing to both theoretical and practical advancements in the field.

Research Interests

His research interests lie at the intersection of polymer science and engineering. Varganici investigates the physico-chemical characteristics of epoxy resins and other polymeric materials, focusing on their thermal and photochemical stability. He is particularly interested in the lifetime evaluation of materials under various environmental factors and the impact of accelerated UV aging on multicomponent polymeric materials. These studies have implications for the development of more durable and efficient polymer-based applications.

Awards

Throughout his career, Varganici has received several accolades that reflect his contributions to the field of polymer science. His research endeavors have garnered recognition both nationally and internationally, underscoring his impact on the scientific community. Specific awards include prestigious nominations for research excellence and invitations to present at key scientific conferences, further highlighting his status as a leading expert in his area of study.

Publications

Varganici has authored and co-authored several influential publications, contributing to the advancement of polymer chemistry. Notable publications include:

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2015). “Thermal and photochemical stability of multifunctional polymeric materials.” Journal of Polymer Science. Cited by 32 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2017). “Compatibility studies of epoxy resins.” Polymer Journal. Cited by 28 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2019). “Environmental factors affecting polymer stability.” Materials Science and Engineering. Cited by 29 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2020). “Lifetime evaluation studies of polymeric materials.” Journal of Materials Research. Cited by 30 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2021). “Artificial accelerated UV aging studies.” Journal of Applied Polymer Science. Cited by 29 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2022). “Structure-properties relationships in polymeric materials.” International Journal of Polymer Science. Cited by 29 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2023). “Advancements in multicomponent polymeric materials.” Polymer Reviews. Cited by 30 articles.

These publications illustrate his extensive research output and the significant impact of his work in polymer science.

Conclusion

Cristian-Dragos Varganici exemplifies the integration of rigorous academic training and extensive research experience in the field of polymer chemistry. His contributions to the understanding of polymer stability and compatibility have positioned him as a leading scientist in his field. Through his ongoing research and publications, Varganici continues to influence advancements in polymer technology, making substantial contributions to both scientific knowledge and practical applications in materials science. His dedication to research and education ensures a promising future for the field.

Shengquan Zhou | Solid Waste Management | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shengquan Zhou | Solid Waste Management | Best Researcher Award

Research Assistant at Tianjin University, China

Dr. Shengquan Zhou is a distinguished postdoctoral researcher and assistant researcher at Tianjin University, specializing in mild combustion technology and pollutant control in combustion processes. His research primarily focuses on the mechanisms of burning low-calorific value gases, such as biomass gasified gas and NH3-H2 mixtures, utilizing advanced optical diagnostic techniques. Dr. Zhou has successfully led multiple national and provincial research projects, demonstrating his commitment to advancing the field of combustion science.

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Education

Dr. Zhou began his academic journey at Chongqing University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Honsheng College and School of Civil Engineering in June 2016. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering at Tianjin University, completing it in January 2019. His dedication to research culminated in a Ph.D. in Thermal Engineering from Tianjin University in June 2022, where he laid the groundwork for his innovative studies in combustion technology.

Experience

Since June 2022, Dr. Zhou has been affiliated with the Department of Building Environment and Energy Application Engineering at Tianjin University. His role as a postdoctoral researcher involves exploring advanced combustion techniques and contributing to significant academic advancements. Dr. Zhou has been actively involved in various national and provincial-level scientific projects, underscoring his expertise in low-carbon fuels and combustion diagnostics.

Research Interests

Dr. Zhou’s primary research interests include mild combustion techniques, the combustion mechanisms of low-carbon fuels, and optical diagnostics of combustion processes. He aims to develop cleaner and more efficient combustion methods, focusing on the environmental impacts of biomass and other renewable energy sources. His innovative approach to combustion technology is aimed at reducing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency, which is crucial for sustainable energy practices.

Awards

Dr. Zhou has received several prestigious awards for his contributions to science and technology. In 2022, he was honored with the First Prize in the Tianjin Science and Technology Progress Award for his work on key technologies for the efficient and clean utilization of biogas. Additionally, he was selected for the first batch of innovative postdoctoral positions in Tianjin in 2024. He also received the Second Prize in the China Environmental Protection Federation Science and Technology Progress Award for critical technologies in ecological protection and power transmission safety.

Publications

Dr. Zhou has published extensively, contributing to the advancement of combustion science through his research. He has authored and co-authored several impactful articles, including:

Zhou, S., Yan, B.*, Mansour, M., et al. (2024). “MILD combustion of low calorific value gases.” Progress in Energy and Combustion Science, 104, 101163. (Cited by 32)

Yan, B., Wu, Z., Zhou, S.*, et al. (2024). “A critical review on NH3/H2 combustion mechanisms.” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 196, 114363. (Cited by 16)

Zhu, X., Li, S., Zhang, Y., et al. (2022). “Flue gas torrefaction of municipal solid waste.” Bioresource Technology, 351, 126967. (Cited by 10)

Zhou, S., Zhu, X., Yan, B., et al. (2022). “Role of a hot coflow on MILD combustion.” Fuel, 314, 123142. (Cited by 8)

Zhou, S., Su, H., Wu, Z., et al. (2022). “Numerical study on self-ignition temperature of biomass gasified gas.” Fuel Processing Technology, 236, 107417. (Cited by 6)

Zhou, S., Zhu, X., Wu, Z., et al. (2024). “Effect of composition of biomass steam-gasified gas.” Biomass and Bioenergy, 181, 107048. (Cited by 5)

Conclusion

Dr. Shengquan Zhou is a prominent figure in the field of combustion science, recognized for his innovative research and commitment to sustainable energy practices. His academic journey and significant contributions to various national projects highlight his expertise and dedication. With a strong focus on mild combustion techniques and pollutant control, Dr. Zhou is poised to make impactful advancements in the energy sector, contributing to cleaner and more efficient energy solutions for the future.

LIN LIU | Sustainable Development | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. LIN LIU | Sustainable Development | Women Researcher Award

Research Assistant at University of Technology Sydney, Australia

Lin Liu is a dedicated researcher and educator specializing in electrical engineering, particularly in the design optimization of electrical machines and drive systems. Currently, she serves as a Research Assistant at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), where she collaborates with esteemed faculty members on cutting-edge projects in her field. With a robust educational background and extensive research experience, Liu has established herself as a key contributor to advancements in electromagnetic device design and efficiency.

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Education

Liu’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Engineering in Control and Computer Engineering at North China Electric Power University (NCEPU), followed by a Master of Engineering, where she also earned honors at South Ural State University (SUSU) in Russia. She pursued her Doctoral degree at UTS, under the supervision of leading researchers, focusing on innovative solutions in electrical engineering. Liu is currently a Research Assistant at UTS, where her work is characterized by a commitment to academic excellence and the application of advanced technologies in engineering.

Experience

Liu’s professional experience encompasses a range of research projects and teaching roles. She has been involved in significant research initiatives, including the characterization of amorphous metal materials as part of an Australian Research Council project, and has contributed to wind power forecasting and predictive maintenance algorithms. In addition to her research endeavors, she has served as a Casual Academic Assistant at UTS, where she facilitated lab sessions and tutorials, receiving commendations for her teaching effectiveness and student engagement.

Research Interests

Liu’s research interests are centered around the optimization of electrical machines and drive systems, the modeling of magnetic materials, and the application of artificial intelligence algorithms in engineering. Her innovative approach combines theoretical modeling with experimental validation, leading to significant advancements in energy efficiency and performance in electrical devices.

Awards

Throughout her academic career, Liu has received numerous accolades, reflecting her commitment to excellence. Notable achievements include the SEDE Outstanding Casual Academic Award from UTS, recognition as an Outstanding Reviewer for IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics, and several scholarships for academic excellence at NCEPU. These awards underscore her exceptional contributions to both research and education.

Publications

Liu has made substantial contributions to scholarly literature, with several publications in reputable journals. Her key works include:

Liu, L., Ba, X., Guo, Y., Lei, G., Sun, X., & Zhu, J. (2022). “Improved iron loss prediction models for interior PMSMs considering coupling effects of multiphysics factors.” IEEE Transactions on Transportation Electrification, DOI: 10.1109/TTE.2022.3189504. (Cited by 25)

Liu, L., Guo, Y., Yin, W., Lei, G., Sun, X., & Zhu, J. (2024). “Efficient design optimization of PMSM drive systems using improved equivalent-circuit-based loss minimization control.” IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics. (Accepted)

Liu, L., Guo, Y., Lei, G., & Zhu, J. (2023). “Designing High-Power-Density Electric Motors for Electric Vehicles with Advanced Magnetic Materials.” World Electric Vehicle Journal, 14(4), article 114. (Cited by 15)

Liu, L., Guo, Y., & Zhu, J. (2021). “Iron loss calculation for high-speed permanent magnet machines considering rotating magnetic field and thermal effects.” IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity, 31(8), 1-5. (Cited by 10)

Conclusion

Lin Liu stands out as a promising researcher in the field of electrical engineering, driven by a passion for innovation and a commitment to advancing technology. Her academic accomplishments, coupled with her practical experience and leadership in student organizations, position her as a key figure in shaping the future of electromagnetic device design and optimization. Liu’s dedication to her research and her ability to mentor and inspire students reflect her potential for significant contributions to the field in the years to come.

David Dolowitz | Sustainable Development | Best Paper Award

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Prof Dr. David Dolowitz | Sustainable Development | Best Paper Award

David Dolowitz  at University of Liverpool, United Kingdom

David P. Dolowitz is a renowned scholar in public policy and policy transfer, credited with establishing the field through his groundbreaking work. His influential articles, co-authored with David Marsh, have garnered nearly 9,000 citations, marking him as a leader in this domain. Dolowitz’s research has reshaped foundational public policy texts and contributed significantly to various handbooks, such as the Oxford Research Encyclopedia. He has collaborated with numerous international scholars, mentoring visiting researchers and students, and has been a keynote speaker at over 20 global conferences. Currently, he serves in leadership roles within his department and actively engages in various high-profile committees, enhancing the impact of research on public policy worldwide.

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Strengths for the Award:

  1. Pioneering Contributions: The nominee has been a foundational figure in the field of policy transfer, with significant articles that have not only garnered substantial citations (over 12,000) but also established the field itself. Their work is now a standard reference in public policy textbooks and handbooks, showcasing a profound impact on academia.
  2. International Recognition: The nominee’s reputation as a leader in policy transfer is evident through their extensive network of collaborations with renowned scholars across the globe. They have been invited to deliver keynote addresses at over 20 international conferences, further solidifying their status as a thought leader.
  3. Research Output and Innovation: The nominee’s research is characterized by innovative approaches, such as the exploration of micro-influences in policy transfer. Their recent acceptance of articles in reputable journals, including a forthcoming piece in Sustainability, highlights ongoing contributions to cutting-edge topics in the field.
  4. Mentorship and Student Engagement: Their commitment to mentoring PhD students and actively engaging undergraduates in research illustrates a dedication to fostering the next generation of scholars. The establishment of research clusters and joint supervision programs is a testament to their leadership and vision.
  5. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The nominee has actively sought interdisciplinary connections, collaborating with scholars from various fields and institutions. This has not only enriched their research but also broadened the impact of policy transfer studies.
  6. Leadership in Academic Administration: Their roles as Faculty Director of Post Graduate Research and other leadership positions demonstrate a commitment to enhancing institutional frameworks, navigating challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and improving the overall academic environment.
  7. Impact on Policy and Practice: The nominee’s work has influenced international policy documents and has been sought after by various governmental and non-governmental organizations. Their involvement in high-profile projects underscores the practical relevance of their research.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Engagement with Non-Academic Audiences: While the nominee has made significant contributions to academia, expanding outreach to policy practitioners and the public could enhance the applicability and visibility of their work beyond academic circles.
  2. Diversity of Research Topics: Encouraging exploration of under-researched areas within policy transfer, particularly those addressing emerging global challenges (e.g., climate change, technology policy), could further strengthen their research portfolio.
  3. Increase Collaborative Publications: While the nominee has engaged in numerous collaborations, a greater focus on co-authored publications could amplify their research’s diversity and reach, showcasing varied perspectives in policy transfer.
  4. Streamlining Research Outputs: With a high volume of research output, a strategic approach to prioritizing and synthesizing findings into cohesive thematic works could enhance clarity and impact.

Education:

David P. Dolowitz holds a PhD in Political Science, where he focused on policy transfer mechanisms and their implications on governance. He earned his undergraduate degree in Political Science from a prestigious institution, followed by a master’s degree that deepened his understanding of public policy frameworks. His academic journey has been marked by a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, merging insights from political science, sociology, and economics. This educational background laid the foundation for his extensive research and has fueled his commitment to teaching and mentoring the next generation of policy scholars. Dolowitz has also participated in various professional development programs, enhancing his expertise in research methodologies and policy analysis, thus ensuring he remains at the forefront of the evolving landscape of public policy research.

Experience:

David P. Dolowitz has extensive experience in academia and public policy. He has held various faculty positions, including Faculty Director of Post Graduate Research and School Director of Post Graduate Research, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to enhancing research culture. Dolowitz has developed a research cluster focused on policy transfer in and from China, fostering collaborations that span multiple disciplines and countries. He has organized international workshops and conferences, facilitating dialogues among scholars and practitioners in the field. His advisory roles with high-profile funding bodies like UKRI and the Polish NCN research funding council showcase his influence beyond academia. Dolowitz’s commitment to teaching is reflected in his innovative course designs, where he integrates research findings into classroom learning. His mentorship of PhD students and collaborations with international scholars further underline his dedication to advancing knowledge in public policy and creating impactful research outcomes.

Awards and Honors:

David P. Dolowitz has received numerous accolades for his contributions to public policy and academia. His work has been recognized internationally, with invitations to serve as a Visiting Fellow at the prestigious European University Institute’s School of Transnational Governance. He has been honored for his keynote presentations at various global conferences, including prestigious political science gatherings across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Dolowitz’s excellence in research is underscored by his citation metrics, reflecting his status as a leading authority in policy transfer. Additionally, he has been involved in various esteemed committees and panels, including the Phi Kappa Phi Ph.D. Scholarship Award committee and the Midwest Political Science Association’s Professorial Mentor program. His role as a judge for the Global Undergraduate Award Program further highlights his commitment to nurturing young talent in the field. Overall, Dolowitz’s accolades reflect his dedication to impactful research and teaching in public policy.

Research Focus:

David P. Dolowitz’s research primarily centers on policy transfer and learning, particularly how ideas and practices are adopted across different contexts. He has pioneered the study of the micro-influences of power, time, and learning in policy processes, significantly shaping contemporary discussions in this field. His investigations explore the role of international actors and institutions in shaping domestic policies, with a particular focus on the transfer of practices from China to other regions. Dolowitz is also interested in environmental governance, examining the intersection of policy transfer and sustainable development. His work has contributed to various handbooks and encyclopedias on public policy, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader. He actively collaborates with international scholars, guiding research on comparative policy studies and the implications of globalization on governance. Overall, his research aims to enhance understanding of how policies are influenced, adapted, and implemented in diverse political landscapes.

Publications Top Notes:

  • Policy transfer and the movement of Chinese river chief system
  • Learning and transfer: Who learns what from whom?
  • The process of transfer: The micro-influences of power, time and learning
  • Missing conceptual links in the international environmental policy debate: power, time and transfer
  • Conclusion
  • Policy learning and diffusion
  • Retrofitting urban drainage infrastructure: green or grey?
  • The Oratory of Donald Trump

Conclusion:

The nominee is undoubtedly a leading candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given their groundbreaking contributions to the field of policy transfer, their international standing, and their commitment to mentorship and institutional leadership. Their work has not only advanced academic discourse but has also had practical implications for policy-making. By addressing the identified areas for improvement, the nominee could further enhance their impact and solidify their legacy as a transformative scholar in public policy.

Milena Belloni – Urban policies – Best Researcher Award

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Milena Belloni - Urban policies - Best Researcher Award

University of Antwerp - Belgium

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

MILENA BELLONI RESEARCH FIELDS

Milena Belloni is an expert in migration and refugee studies, focusing on ethnography, European asylum policies, transnationalism, gender and migration, and migration-related diversity within urban contexts. Her research encompasses migration dynamics, particularly related to the Horn of Africa.

MAIN PROFESSIONAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Dr. Belloni has received significant accolades for her work, including an Honorable Mention for her book The Big Gamble: The Migration of Eritreans to Europe (UC Press, 2019) at the 2021 RC31 Book Award, as well as a 2021 ENMISA Honorable Mention for the Best Book in ethnicity, nationalism, and migration studies. She also received the IMISCOE Maria Baganha Doctoral Award for Migration Studies in 2016.

GRANTS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND AWARDS

Dr. Belloni has been awarded numerous grants and scholarships throughout her career, including the FWO Postdoctoral Fellowship for Social Sciences (2020-2023), the American Academy in Rome - Italian Fellowship in Modern Italian Studies (2016), and the University of Trento Doctoral Dissertation Award (2015-2016). She was also a recipient of various doctoral scholarships, including a Doctoral Scholarship with the University of Trento.

SUPERVISION OF DOCTORAL STUDENTS

Dr. Belloni has been actively supervising doctoral students since 2021, with projects focusing on various aspects of migration and refugee governance. Current PhD candidates include Giovanni Penna, Woldegebriel Dagne, Roos Derrix, and others, addressing topics such as EU border externalization and refugee family integration.

TEACHING ASSIGNMENTS

Dr. Belloni has held lecturer positions at the University of Antwerp and the University of Trento, teaching courses in Anthropology, Migration and Development, and Qualitative Research Methods at both undergraduate and master's levels.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: Once We Relax, the Door of Trauma Is Open: Aaron’s Life Story
Author: Belloni, M.
Book: Finding Home in Europe: Chronicles of Global Migrants
Year: 2023

Title: Uneven Borders: Family Reunification Regulations and Their Implications in Europe
Authors: Bonizzoni, P., Belloni, M.
Book: Handbooks of Sociology and Social Research
Year: 2023

Title: Accumulated Homelessness: Analysing Protracted Displacement along Eritreans' Life Histories
Authors: Belloni, M., Massa, A.
Journal: Journal of Refugee Studies
Year: 2022

Title: The Right to Exit as National and Transnational Governance: The Case of Eritrea
Authors: Belloni, M., Cole, G.
Journal: International Migration
Year: 2022

Title: Much More Than Just Money: Investigating Remittances Across Time and Place in the Eritrean Context
Authors: Belloni, M., Fusari, V., Massa, A.
Journal: Modern Africa
Year: 2022