Yixiao Chen – Transportation Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Yixiao Chen | Transportation Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral Student | Jiangsu University | China

Yixiao Chen is a highly accomplished PhD candidate at Jiangsu University specializing in vehicle engineering, with a strong academic and research profile centered on autonomous driving, acceleration evaluation, steer-by-wire systems, scene generation, and SLAM. The academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in transportation from Nantong University in 2020, followed by a master’s degree in vehicle engineering at Jiangsu University, focusing on visual SLAM, and continued into doctoral studies from 2023 onward. Recognized for excellence, multiple honors have been earned, including the Best Researcher Prize in 2025 for a significant paper on scenario virtual testing technology for autonomous vehicles, third place in the 3rd National Onsite Autonomous Driving Challenge, and several awards during graduate studies such as Outstanding Graduate Student Cadre and Best Paper Award. Research contributions include impactful journal publications in esteemed outlets like Symmetry, IEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering, and the Journal of Automobile Engineering, addressing key advancements in scenario testing, acceleration evaluation, visual mapping algorithms, and vehicle dynamics. Alongside publications, multiple patents have been secured, focusing on accelerated testing methods, virtual acceleration test systems, and semantic mapping for indoor parking, reflecting innovation and applied research outcomes. Beyond academic work, leadership has been demonstrated by managing large-scale projects, including serving as project leader for the Jiangsu Province Graduate Research and Innovation Program and acting as a core member in projects on virtual simulation scenario modeling, drive-by-wire systems, and millimeter-wave detection. Currently, a dedicated team of eight postgraduates has been established under guidance, advancing research on drive-by-wire chassis control and virtual simulation platforms, strengthening both theoretical development and real-world application. The career trajectory illustrates a blend of rigorous academic achievement, practical innovation, and leadership, positioning Yixiao Chen as an emerging expert contributing significantly to the fields of autonomous driving and intelligent vehicle systems.

Profile:  ORCID

Publications:

  • Chen, Y., Jiang, H., & Sun, T. (2025). Review of scenario virtual testing technology for autonomous vehicles: Migration challenges between symmetric frameworks and asymmetric scenarios. Symmetry.

  • Chen, Y. (2025). Design of variable steering ratio for steer-by-wire system based on driver’s steering characteristics. Machines.

  • Li, A., Su, M., Jiang, H., Chen, Y., & Chen, W. (2024). A two-dimensional lane-changing dynamics model based on force. IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems.

  • Jiang, H., Chen, Y., Shen, Q., Yin, C., & Cai, J. (2024). Semantic closed-loop based visual mapping algorithm for automated valet parking. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part D: Journal of Automobile Engineering.

  • Chen, Y. (2020). An empirical study of virtual simulation technology replacing real car test in college teaching. Research and Exploration in Laboratory.

  • Chen, Y. (2019). Optimization for pure electric buses body structure based on improved response surface method. Journal of Machine Design.

Verena Tandrayen-Ragoobur – Transport – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Verena Tandrayen-Ragoobur - Transport - Best Researcher Award

University of Mauritius - Mauritius

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Verena Tandrayen-Ragoobur embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Economics from the University of Mauritius in November 1998. She pursued her Master of Science in Economics and International Economics from the University of Nottingham, UK, graduating in November 1999. Her academic pursuits culminated in a PhD in Economics from the University of Mauritius in September 2006, focusing on the relationship between Foreign Direct Investment, Exports, and the Labour Market in Sub-Saharan Africa.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Tandrayen-Ragoobur's professional trajectory spans various academic and research positions. She currently serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Mauritius, a position she has held since October 2023. Prior to this, she served as an Associate Professor at the same university, where she taught modules such as Market Analysis, International Macroeconomics, and Microeconomic Theory. She has also held leadership roles such as Head of the Department of Economics and Statistics and Lead of the Pole of Research Excellence in Applied Socio-Economic Research and Analysis (ASERA).

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Tandrayen-Ragoobur's research focuses on various aspects of economics, including trade, labour market dynamics, poverty alleviation, and regional value chain integration. She has conducted policy-driven research and contributed to workshops and conferences on topics such as trade facilitation, national minimum wage, and gender-sensitive value chains. Her scholarly contributions have been recognized through scholarships, awards, and invitations to serve as an external examiner for PhD dissertations.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Tandrayen-Ragoobur's work has had a significant impact on academia, policymaking, and economic development initiatives. Her research on topics such as poverty alleviation, trade policy reforms, and the socio-economic conditions of fisheries communities has contributed to a deeper understanding of key economic issues in Mauritius and beyond. Her leadership roles in academic institutions and research networks further amplify her influence in shaping economic discourse and policy directions.

ACADEMIC CITES

Dr. Tandrayen-Ragoobur's research has been cited extensively in academic literature, reflecting the relevance and impact of her contributions to the field of economics. Her publications and presentations have contributed to advancing knowledge and informing policy debates on issues related to trade, poverty, labour markets, and economic development.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Tandrayen-Ragoobur's legacy lies in her dedication to advancing knowledge in economics and her commitment to addressing socio-economic challenges through research, teaching, and policy engagement. Her future contributions are expected to further enrich scholarly understanding, inform evidence-based policymaking, and inspire the next generation of economists and researchers.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Sustainable development and tourism growth in an island economy: a dynamic investigation.  2023 (5)

Infrastructure and intra-regional trade in Africa.  2023 (3)

Artisanal fishers in small island developing states and their perception of environmental change: the case study of Mauritius.  2023 (2)