Nikos Loukeris | Finance | Global Teaching Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Nikos Loukeris | Finance | Global Teaching Excellence Award

University of West Attica | Greece

Assist. Prof. Dr. Nikos Loukeris, an eminent scholar in Finance and Computational Intelligence, holds a Ph.D. in Finance with a specialization in portfolio optimization and hybrid neural networks and currently serves as Assistant Professor of Finance at the University of West Attica, Greece. He has an extensive academic and professional background, including visiting professorships at Hellenic Open University, Athens University of Economics and Business, and supervision of internships for students at Athens-UniWA and Princeton University, reflecting his global teaching engagement. Dr. Loukeris’s research interests encompass computational finance, artificial intelligence applications in financial modeling, risk management, portfolio optimization, and hybrid neural network systems. He has demonstrated exceptional research skills in meta-heuristic techniques, machine learning integration in financial evaluation, and hybrid systems for portfolio selection, evidenced by publications in high-impact journals such as Operational Research, International Journal of Finance & Economics, and multiple IEEE-indexed conference proceedings. His significant professional experience includes founding and managing Loukeris N. Business Consultants and Lamda Engineers, leading initiatives that bridge academic knowledge and industry application. Dr. Loukeris has earned numerous awards and honors, including keynote and plenary speaker invitations at international conferences such as the IEEE European Conference on Electrical & Computer Science, the Artificial Intelligence Summit, and the International Conference on Business Economics and Finance, as well as research awards for innovative work on bankruptcy prediction and hybrid neural network models. His contributions extend beyond research, including leadership in organizing IEEE special sessions, mentoring students, and promoting global academic collaborations. In conclusion, Dr. Loukeris is highly deserving of the Global Teaching Excellence Award for his outstanding combination of education, professional experience, research excellence, and global academic leadership, demonstrating a sustained impact on finance education, AI integration, and the development of future leaders in the field, and his continued contributions are expected to advance international standards in teaching, research, and mentorship in finance and computational intelligence.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Loukeris, N., Donelly, D., Khuman, A., & Peng, Y. (2009). A numerical evaluation of meta-heuristic techniques in portfolio optimisation. Operational Research, 9(1), 81–103.

Loukeris, N., & Matsatsinis, N. (2006). Corporate financial evaluation and bankruptcy prediction implementing artificial intelligence methods. In Proceedings of the 10th WSEAS International Conference on Computers (pp. 938–942).

Nikolaos, L. (2009). An empirical evaluation of CAPM’s validity in the British stock exchange. International Journal of Applied Mathematics and Informatics, 3(1), 1–8.

Loukeris, N., & Eleftheriadis, I. (2015). Further higher moments in portfolio selection and a priori detection of bankruptcy under multi-layer perceptron neural networks, hybrid neuro-genetic MLPs, and hybrid neuro-genetic RBFNs. International Journal of Finance & Economics, 20(4), 341–361.

Nikolaos, L. (2008). Radial basis functions networks to hybrid neuro-genetic RBFNs in financial evaluation of corporations. In Proceedings of the 12th WSEAS International Conference on Computers (pp. 812–819).

Masoud Kargar | Artificial intelligence | Best Research Article Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Masoud Kargar | Artificial intelligence | Best Research Article Award

Islamic Azad University, Tabriz Branch | Iran

Assist. Prof. Dr. Masoud Kargar is an accomplished scholar and researcher from the Islamic Azad University, Tabriz Branch, Iran, specializing in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Computational Optimization. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Engineering with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence and intelligent network optimization from a leading Iranian university, where his research focused on developing novel machine learning models for real-world applications. With several years of academic and professional experience, Dr. Kargar has served as a lecturer, mentor, and research collaborator, contributing extensively to both theoretical and applied aspects of AI. His research interests include deep learning, biomedical image processing, software-defined networking, and intelligent optimization algorithms, reflected in his impactful publications such as RCPFH: Reliable Controller Placement in Software-Defined Networks Using Fuzzy Systems and a Modified Walrus Optimization Algorithm and HNMD-CNN: A Hierarchical Narrowing Multi-Deep Convolutional Neural Network for Precision Glioma Classification in 3D MRI Images, published in Simulation Modelling Practice and Theory (2025). Demonstrating strong research skills in algorithm development, data analysis, and AI-driven problem-solving, he has achieved over 91 citations, an h-index of 6, and published more than 20 articles in reputable, Scopus-indexed journals. Dr. Kargar’s professional affiliations include IEEE and ACM, underscoring his commitment to international research collaboration and academic excellence. He has been recognized for his innovative research and contribution to technological development, earning accolades for his scholarly impact. His dedication to advancing artificial intelligence and mentoring young researchers signifies his leadership in shaping the future of computational science. With his outstanding achievements, innovative research, and academic integrity, Assist. Prof. Dr. Masoud Kargar is truly deserving of the Best Research Article Award, honoring his excellence and lasting contributions to AI research and global scientific advancement.

Featured Publications

RCPFH: Reliable controller placement in software-defined networks using fuzzy systems and a modified walrus optimization algorithm. Simulation Modelling Practice and Theory

HNMD-CNN: A hierarchical narrowing multi-deep convolutional neural network for precision glioma classification in 3D MRI images. Simulation Modelling Practice and Theory.

Yu Ni | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yu Ni | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Qingdao Agricultural University | China

Dr. Yu Ni is a highly accomplished professor at the College of Agronomy, Qingdao Agricultural University, China, with extensive experience in plant stress biology, molecular genetics, and biochemistry, particularly focusing on drought tolerance, cuticular wax biosynthesis, and stress adaptation mechanisms in key crops such as Arabidopsis, Brassica napus, and Sorghum bicolor. She earned her Ph.D. in Agronomy from Southwest University, Chongqing, and has since held prominent academic positions, including a professorship at Southwest University before joining Qingdao Agricultural University. Dr. Ni has an outstanding record of teaching both undergraduate courses, including Plant Physiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology, and graduate courses such as Molecular Genetics, while supervising numerous student research projects. Her research skills are reflected in her leadership of multiple national and international projects, extensive collaborations with global research teams, and her proficiency in multi-omics analyses, gene expression profiling, and plant physiological assessments. She has authored over 40 high-impact publications in reputed journals including New Phytologist, Plant Biotechnology Journal, Plant, Cell & Environment, and BMC Plant Biology, with key contributions to understanding plant drought tolerance and cuticular wax regulation. Dr. Ni’s professional memberships, mentorship roles, and community involvement further demonstrate her dedication to advancing plant science and fostering the next generation of researchers. Her awards and honors, including the Best Researcher Award, recognize her sustained impact on both scientific discovery and education. Areas for future improvement include expanding publications in Q1 journals, increasing international collaborations, and engaging in more keynote presentations and editorial responsibilities. Overall, Dr. Yu Ni is exceptionally deserving of the Best Researcher Award due to her innovative contributions to plant molecular biology, her leadership in research and mentorship, and her potential to drive global advancements in plant stress biology through continued research excellence and international engagement.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Ni, Y., et al. (2025). Enhancing sweet sorghum emergence and stress resilience in saline-alkaline soils through ABA seed priming: Insights into hormonal and metabolic reprogramming. BMC Genomics.

Ni, Y., Jin, S., Wang, Y., Song, Y., Fan, S., Luo, N., Gan, Q., & Guo, Y. (2025). Dual regulation of cuticle and cell wall biosynthesis by BnaC9.MYB46 confers drought tolerance in Brassica napus. Plant Biotechnology Journal.

Luo, N., Wang, Y., Liu, Y., Wang, Y., Guo, Y., Chen, C., Gan, Q., Song, Y., Fan, Y., Jin, S., & Ni, Y. (2024). 3-ketoacyl-CoA synthase 19 contributes to the biosynthesis of seed lipids and cuticular wax in Arabidopsis and abiotic stress tolerance. Plant, Cell & Environment, 47, 4599–4614.

Nour El Houda Bensiradj | Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nour El Houda Bensiradj | Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

University Of Science And Technology Houari Boumediene | Algeria

Dr. Nour El Houda Bensiradj, an Associate Professor at the University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene (USTHB), Algeria, is an accomplished researcher specializing in theoretical and computational chemistry with applications in pharmaceutical sciences. She earned her Magister degree in Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Theoretical and Computational Chemistry from USTHB, both with high distinction. Over the years, Dr. Bensiradj has established a strong academic and research profile through her teaching expertise in quantum chemistry, molecular structure, and analytical chemistry. Her professional experience extends beyond teaching to leading and participating in several national and international research projects funded by PRFU and CNEPRU, with collaborations involving institutions in Spain, Jordan, and Egypt. Her research interests include density functional theory (DFT), time-dependent DFT (TDDFT), ab initio calculations, and their applications in molecular spectroscopy, organometallic chemistry, renewable energy, and drug development. Dr. Bensiradj’s research skills encompass advanced computational modeling, spectral analysis, and molecular reactivity prediction, which she effectively integrates to address complex problems in theoretical and pharmaceutical chemistry. She has published articles in reputable Scopus-indexed journals, including Computational and Theoretical Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry Accounts, and Inorganica Chimica Acta. Additionally, she has presented her work at several international conferences, enhancing her visibility and impact in the global scientific community. Throughout her academic journey, she has supervised numerous postgraduate theses, reflecting her dedication to mentoring future researchers. Her contributions have been recognized through academic honors and invitations to collaborative research programs. In recognition of her academic excellence, innovative research, and global impact, Dr. Nour El Houda Bensiradj is rightfully honored with the Best Researcher Award for her outstanding achievements and dedication to advancing theoretical and pharmaceutical chemistry on an international scale.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Guermi, I. N. E. H., Bensiradj, N. E. H., Saal, A., Almi, M., & Nassar, M. (2024). Theoretical approach to the protonation of Anderson type polyoxometalate [XM₆O₂₄]ⁿ⁻ (X = I, Te, and Sb, M = Mo and W, and n = 5, 6, 7). Computational and Theoretical Chemistry, 1283, 114504.

Miles, F., Djellouli, F., Bensiradj, N., & Dahmani, A. (2023). Pharmaceutical cocrystal consisting of ascorbic acid with p-aminobenzoic acid and paracetamol. Physical Sciences Reviews, 8(3), Article 2021-0199.

Yousfi, H., Bensiradj, N. H., Khedidji, M., Saal, A., & Ouamerali, O. (2023). Theoretical investigation of the structure and spectroscopy of uranium oxide species. Theoretical Chemistry Accounts, 142(1), 14.

Ababneh, R., Smadi, M., Bensiradj, N. E. H., Al-Akhras, M. A., Al-Hiari, Y., Jum’h, I., Abu-Dahab, R., Al Bataineh, Q. M., & Telfah, A. (2023). UV–Vis, FTIR and DFT studies of the fluoroquinolone [pyrido pyrolo quinoxaline (PPQ)] tethered to gold nanoparticles as a novel anticancer. Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials, 33(2), 754–766.

Bensiradj, N. E. H., Ouamerali, O., & Dekhira, A. (2022). Ab initio calculations of the ground and excited states of the ZnTe molecule and its ions ZnTe⁺ and ZnTe⁻. Research Square.

 

 

Ekaterina Yurtaeva | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ekaterina Yurtaeva | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

 York St John University | United Kingdom

Dr. Ekaterina Yurtaeva, an HCPC-registered Counselling Psychologist, is a distinguished researcher and practitioner in psychology, specializing in trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and integrative therapeutic approaches. She earned her Doctorate in Counselling Psychology from York St John University , with a dissertation focused on intercultural love and romantic relationships under the supervision of Prof. Divine Charura and Dr. Natalie Smith. She also holds an MSc in Early Childhood Research with First Class Honors from Leipzig Research Center for Early Child Development, Germany, where her research examined neural correlates of attachment in adolescents, and a BSc (Hons) in Applied Psychology with Clinical Psychology from the University of Kent, UK. Professionally, Dr. Yurtaeva serves as a Counselling Psychologist at the Nightingale Hospital, London, and the Humber and North Yorkshire Resilience Hub, providing evidence-based interventions for adults presenting with trauma, work-related stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic health conditions. Her clinical experience includes leadership in reflective practice sessions, CPD training, and the delivery of both individual and group psychotherapy, demonstrating advanced application of CBT, DBT, ACT, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and person-centered modalities. Dr. Yurtaeva’s research interests encompass culturally sensitive psychological interventions, trauma stabilization, and cross-cultural mental health practices. She has contributed to projects on autism, severe mental illness, and simulation-based training, and her work has been published in reputable journals, including the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships. Her skills in statistical analysis (SPSS, R), research design, and cross-cultural competencies complement her clinical expertise. Recognized for her excellence in research and clinical practice, she has received accolades including the Best Researcher Award. Dr. Yurtaeva’s leadership, interdisciplinary knowledge, and commitment to evidence-based, culturally responsive practice establish her as a global leader in counselling psychology, with strong potential to advance international collaborations, Q1 publications, and mentorship initiatives that elevate research and practice standards in mental health globally.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Yurtaeva, E., & Groves, E. (2025). Improving outcomes for traumatised health and social care staff through the implementation of a trauma pathway within an NHS staff support service: A case study. Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice.

Yurtaeva, E., & Charura, D. (2025). Intercultural romantic relationships: How is the love? The Family Journal. Advance online publication.

Yurtaeva, E., & Charura, D. (2024). Comprehensive scoping review of research on intercultural love and romantic relationships. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships.

Fatima Alamri | organic chemisry | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Fatima Alamri | organic chemisry | Best Researcher Award

University of Bisha | Saudi Arabia

Academic Background

Assist. Prof. Dr. Fatima Alamri earned her doctoral degree in organic chemistry at King Abdulaziz University, where her research centered on structure elucidation and biological activity of secondary metabolites isolated from Saudi Arabia’s terrestrial plants. She holds an MSc in organic chemistry, also from KAU, with a thesis focused on phytochemical studies of wild Saudi plant species, and completed her Bachelor of Science and Education at King Khalid University.

Research Focus

Assist. Prof. Dr. Fatima Alamri research broadly focuses on natural products chemistry and bioactive secondary metabolites from indigenous plant species, combining isolation, structure elucidation, and evaluation of pharmacological and antioxidant properties. She is also exploring green synthesis of metal or metal-oxide nanocomposites mediated by plant extracts and assessing their biological applications.

Work Experience

Assist. Prof. Dr. Fatima Alamri joined the University of Bisha as an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry, where she teaches courses in organic chemistry, natural product chemistry, and principles of scientific research. She supervises undergraduate projects and field training. Prior to this, she served as lecturer at Bisha University (Al Namas campus) for a decade, teaching organic and natural product chemistry to science undergraduates. Earlier, during her doctoral and master’s years, she was a teaching assistant in the chemistry department at King Khalid University, primarily responsible for supervising laboratory practical classes.

Key Contributions

Assist. Prof. Dr. Fatima Alamri has contributed to advancing knowledge in natural product isolation, by characterizing bioactive lactones, sesquiterpenoids, and diterpenoids from Saudi Arabian flora. Her work has also extended into the sustainable synthesis of nanocomposites using plant extracts, merging phytochemistry with nanotechnology and providing new materials with antioxidant or antimicrobial activities.

Awards & Recognition

Assist. Prof. Dr. Fatima Alamri scholarship has been recognized via invitations to present at national nanotechnology conferences and workshops, and through her participation in advanced training in analytical techniques (e.g. NMR, HPLC, mass spectrometry). She is also active in institutional service, having served as head of chemistry and as an academic advisor.

Professional Roles & Memberships

Within her institution, Assist. Prof. Dr. Fatima Alamri has served as head of the Department of Chemistry, academic advisor, and member of student issues and quality assurance committees. She participates in workshops and training programs in higher education, scientific research methodologies, and digital tools for teaching. She is affiliated with national conferences in chemistry and nanotechnology and engages with professional networks in natural products and analytical chemistry.

Featured Publications

Badahdah, K. O., KAU, J., Arabia, S., Ahmed, H. M., Alamri, F. B., & Abdel-Mogib, M. (2015). Total antioxidant capacity of labdane and pimarane diterpenoids of Juniperus phoenicea L. International Journal of Science and Engineering Applications, 4, 287–293.

Alamri, F. B., Sobahi, T. R., Althagbi, H. I., Abdel-Lateff, A., Alfaifi, M. Y., Mohammed, A. Y., … & Alarif, W. M. (2023). Bioactivity and molecular docking of lactones isolated from Centaurea pseudosinaica Czerep. Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 31(6), 773–782.

Alorfi, H. S., Aljohany, F. A., Alamri, F. B., Althagbi, H. I., Abdel-Naim, A. B., Alarif, W. M., … & Aboubakr, E. M. (2024). Anti-inflammatory humulene-type sesquiterpenoids from Asteriscus graveolens. Journal of Contemporary Medical Sciences, 10(5).

Aljohany, F. A., Jastaniah, S. D., Alamri, F. B., Bawakid, N. O., Althagbi, H. I., Abdel-Naim, A. B., … & Alarif, W. M. (2025). Molecular docking, antimicrobial, antibiofilm formation, and antiproliferative activities of furano-based sesquiterpenoids from Euryops arabicus. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 11(1), 1–12.

Alamri, F. B. (2025). Sustainable synthesis of Cu/SeO₂ and Co/SeO₂ nanocomposites using Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract: characterization, phytochemical analysis, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities. Journal of Nanotechnology, 2025(1), 1027481.

Profile

Orcid

Impact Statement / Vision

Assist. Prof. Dr. Fatima Alamri envisions bridging traditional phytochemistry and modern nanotechnology to develop environmentally benign materials and novel bioactive agents from indigenous flora. She aspires for her research to contribute to sustainable drug discovery, greener synthesis methods, and improved health outcomes through natural products. In her role as educator, she aims to mentor and inspire future chemists to explore the rich biodiversity of the region and apply interdisciplinary approaches to solve challenges in chemistry and materials science.

 

Li Xiao | Engineering | Best Industrial Research Award

Mr. Li Xiao | Engineering | Best Industrial Research Award

Northwest Normal University | China

Mr. Li Xiao, in Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China, is a dedicated researcher currently pursuing a master’s degree at Northwest Normal University after completing his undergraduate studies at Anyang Normal University . Throughout his academic journey, he has demonstrated exceptional excellence, earning multiple scholarships including the National Encouragement Scholarship, school-level scholarships, and awards such as the third prize  Lanqiao Algorithm Competition for University Group B and the Third Prize Team Award in the Computer Competition for Chinese Universities – Programming Ascension Contest in Henan Province. Professionally, Li Xiao has actively engaged in research projects, notably securing Annual Research Funding Project at Northwest Normal University, and has contributed to publications including a paper titled “Industrial Prediction Method Based on Graph Sampling and Aggregation of Temporal Features” in The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering. His research interests center on industrial prediction methods, algorithmic modeling, and the application of computational techniques to solve practical engineering challenges. Li Xiao has developed strong research skills in data analysis, temporal feature aggregation, graph-based sampling methods, and predictive modeling, reflecting a robust ability to integrate theoretical frameworks with real-world industrial applications. Beyond technical expertise, he has demonstrated leadership and collaboration skills through team competitions and research projects, positioning him as an emerging leader in engineering research. His awards and honors underscore both his academic excellence and innovative contributions to the field. In conclusion, Mr. Li Xiao’s consistent achievements, research capabilities, and proactive engagement in scholarly and industrial projects make him a highly deserving recipient of the Best Industrial Research Award, as his work not only advances engineering research but also promises significant impact on industrial practices and global scientific collaboration.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Gao, S., Li, X., Yang, W., Xie, J., & Yun, P. (2025). Industrial prediction method based on graph sampling and aggregation of temporal features. The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering. Advance online publication.

Sonia Ben Younes | Biochemistry | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sonia Ben Younes | Biochemistry | Women Researcher Award

Ibn Jazzar Faculty of Medicine of Sousse | Tunisia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sonia Ben Younes, a distinguished Tunisian scholar in biochemistry, has built an impactful academic and research career that reflects both depth and innovation. She earned her Bachelor of Science , followed by a License in Life Sciences  from the University of Sfax, a Master’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology , and an International Master in Microbial Biodiversity and Continuous Development from Aix-Marseille I University . She completed her Ph.D. in Biology at the Environmental Bioprocess Laboratory, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax,  and later received her Habilitation to Supervise Research from the Faculty of Sciences of Gafsa. Professionally, she serves at the Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, where she has taught courses in molecular biology, environmental biochemistry, enzymology, and biotechnology while mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students. Her research interests span microbial enzymology, environmental biotechnology, plant-based therapeutic extracts, and wastewater treatment, with a specific focus on fungal laccases for bioremediation and detoxification of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and industrial effluents. Her research skills include microbial isolation and characterization, enzymatic purification and kinetics, molecular biology techniques (PCR, DNA sequencing, electrophoresis), toxicity assays, and advanced bioprocess applications, including membrane technologies and enzyme optimization methodologies. She has authored and co-authored  peer-reviewed publications in leading journals such as Environmental Science and Pollution Research, Catalysis Letters, and Journal of Water Process Engineering, while actively contributing as a reviewer for international journals like Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety and Food and Chemical Toxicology. Dr. Ben Younes has received recognition for her contributions to biochemistry and environmental sciences through her publications, conference presentations, and collaborations with international research groups. In recognition of her outstanding research achievements, leadership in science, and contributions to both environmental sustainability and biomedical innovation, she is a highly deserving recipient of the Women Researcher Award, underscoring her potential to advance biochemistry research at a global scale.

Profile: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Ben Younes, S., Mechichi, T., & Sayadi, S. (2007). Purification and characterization of the laccase secreted by the white rot fungus Perenniporia tephropora and its role in the decolourization of synthetic dyes. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 102(4), 1033–1042.

Rigane, G., Ben Younes, S., Ghazghazi, H., & Salem, R. B. (2013). Investigation into the biological activities and chemical composition of Calendula officinalis L. growing in Tunisia. International Food Research Journal, 20(6), 3001–3007.

Eddouaouda, K., Mnif, S., Badis, A., Ben Younes, S., Cherif, S., Ferhat, S., Mhiri, N., & Sayadi, S. (2012). Characterization of a novel biosurfactant produced by Staphylococcus sp. strain 1E with potential application on hydrocarbon bioremediation. Journal of Basic Microbiology, 52(4), 408–418.

Ben Younes, S., & Sayadi, S. (2011). Purification and characterization of a novel trimeric and thermotolerant laccase produced from the ascomycete Scytalidium thermophilum strain. Journal of Molecular Catalysis B: Enzymatic, 73(1–4), 35–42.

Ben Younes, S., Bouallagui, Z., & Sayadi, S. (2012). Catalytic behavior and detoxifying ability of an atypical homotrimeric laccase from the thermophilic strain Scytalidium thermophilum on selected azo and triarylmethane dyes. Journal of Molecular Catalysis B: Enzymatic, 79, 41–48.

Mehtap Yildirim | Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mehtap Yildirim | Science | Best Researcher Award

Marmara University | Turkey

Prof. Dr. Mehtap Yildirim is a highly accomplished scholar in the field of educational sciences whose academic journey reflects excellence and dedication to advancing science education and pedagogy. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology Education from Hacettepe University , followed by a master’s degree in Didactics of Science from Université René Descartes Paris V , and later completed her Ph.D. in Science Education at Marmara University . Over the course of her professional career, she has served in multiple academic and administrative roles at Marmara University, where she has contributed as a professor, department head, and research supervisor, mentoring numerous master’s and doctoral students. Her research interests span a wide spectrum including science and biology education, teacher training, problem-based learning (PBL), project-based teaching (PBT), STEM education, flipped classrooms, digital literacy, and the integration of Web  tools in modern classrooms. In terms of research skills, Prof. Yildirim demonstrates expertise in curriculum design, pedagogical innovation, quantitative and qualitative research methods, educational technology integration, and interdisciplinary collaboration, with strong contributions to international projects and publications in SSCI, SCI, and Scopus-indexed journals. Her work has appeared in respected outlets such as Research in Science and Technological Education, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education, and Science Education International, reflecting both the impact and relevance of her scholarship. She has also participated as a jury member in doctoral committees, reviewed articles for high-impact journals, and contributed to academic communities through conference presentations and educational policy discussions. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, she has received several awards and honors that underscore her influence in advancing science pedagogy. In conclusion, Prof. Dr. Mehtap Yildirim’s exceptional academic achievements, leadership in research, and innovative contributions to science education make her a deserving recipient of the Best Researcher Award.

Profile: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Şahin, F., Güven, İ., & Yurdatapan, M. (2011). The effects of project-based education practices on the development of scientific process skills in preschool children. Marmara University Journal of Educational Sciences, 88, 1–22.

Sarıcam, U., & Yıldırım, M. (2021). The effects of digital game-based STEM activities on students’ interests in STEM fields and scientific creativity: Minecraft case. International Journal of Technology in Education and Science, 5(2), 166–192.

Şahin, F., Yıldırım, M., Sürmeli, H., & Güven, İ. (2018). A test development study for assessing preschool students’ scientific process skills. Journal of Science, Education, Art and Technology (BEST Journal), 2(2), 124–138.

Can, S., & Yıldırım, M. (2017). “Are you in or out” of science class with educational games? Atatürk University Kazım Karabekir Faculty of Education Journal, 35(35), 12–25.

Bodur, Z., & Yıldırım, M. (2018). The effect of out-of-class activities on the academic achievement and science process skills of seventh-grade middle school students. Journal of Educational Sciences, 47(47), 125–140.

Salma Saddeek | Molecular Biology | Best Scholar Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Salma Saddeek | Molecular Biology | Best Scholar Award

Hafr Al Batin Univercity | Saudi Arabia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Salma Saddeek, currently serving at Hafr Al Batin University in Saudi Arabia, is an accomplished scholar specializing in molecular biology and biochemistry whose academic journey reflects a strong commitment to scientific excellence and educational leadership. She earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry with a focus on Molecular Biology from King Abdul-Aziz University, Jeddah, where her dissertation investigated the molecular mechanisms of quercetin in atherosclerosis, following a Master of Science degree in Biochemistry  that examined vitamin D status in postmenopausal women with type II diabetes, and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry . Professionally, she has advanced from lecturer to Assistant Professor (2021–present), while also holding significant leadership roles such as Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, Acting Dean, and Acting Chair of the Department of Chemistry at Hafr Al Batin University, demonstrating her administrative and academic capabilities. Her research interests are deeply rooted in cardiovascular health, cancer genetics, and the therapeutic potential of bioactive compounds, with publications in peer-reviewed journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, focusing on topics such as antioxidant effects, atherosclerosis-related pathways, and gene expression profiling. Dr. Saddeek’s research skills encompass molecular biology techniques, biostatistical analysis, microarray profiling, and interdisciplinary collaboration, supported by practical training experiences at King Fahd Center for Medical Research and Khalid Medical Center. Her academic honors include recognition for her master’s thesis at King Abdulaziz University and international symposium participation in Switzerland, alongside certifications in biochemistry, scientific writing, SPSS analysis, and osteoporosis research. These achievements are further strengthened by her involvement in funded projects, student mentorship, and curriculum development. In conclusion, Dr. Saddeek’s distinguished academic background, impactful research, leadership contributions, and dedication to advancing molecular biology make her a deserving recipient of the Best Scholar Award, recognizing her as a role model in both research and higher education.

Profile: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Ahmad, B., Ilahi, I., Khan, A. A., Attaullah, M., Ali, A., Ghani, M., Saidal, A., Khan, Z., Al-Asmari, F., Sameeh, M. Y., et al. (2024). Hematobiochemical, antioxidant, and lipid alterations in mice feed with thermally oxidized coconut oil. Italian Journal of Food Science, 36(1).

Hadi, B. J., Umar, A., Alhalafi, Z., Inuwa, N., Saddeek, S. Y., & Ahmed, M. H. (2024, December 11). Ternary polymeric beads of chitosan-based polyaniline doped iron oxide used for removal of cadmium and lead ions from water: Kinetic, isotherm and mechanism studies. Separation Science and Technology.

Şahin, H., Naseer, M., Saddeek, S., & Imtiaz, Z. (2024, February 27). Investigating the therapeutic potential of (Chenopodium quinoa) with cinnamon supplementation against hyperglycemia biomarkers in pre-diabetic human female subjects. Journal of Population Therapeutics & Clinical Pharmacology, 31(2).

Mirza, Z., Al-Saedi, D. A., Saddeek, S., Almowallad, S., Almassabi, R. F., & Huwait, E. (2023). Atheroprotective effect of fucoidan in THP-1 macrophages by potential upregulation of ABCA1. Biomedicines, 11(11), 2929.

Huwait, E., Almassabi, R., Almowallad, S., Saddeek, S., Karim, S., Kalamegam, G., & Mirza, Z. (2023). Microarray expression profile of myricetin-treated THP-1 macrophages exhibits alterations in atherosclerosis-related regulator molecules and LXR/RXR pathway. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(1), 278.

Saddeek, S., Almassabi, R., & Mobashir, M. (2023). Role of ZNF143 and its association with gene expression patterns, noncoding mutations, and the immune system in human breast cancer. Life, 13(1), 27.