Agha Shadab Ali | Corporate Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 15/04/202515/04/2025 by TOT Awards

Dr. Agha Shadab Ali | Corporate Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Graduated Scholar at Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL), Malaysia

Dr. Agha Shadab Ali is a dynamic researcher and professional specializing in sustainability, performance management, and shared service centers. With a Ph.D. from Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur, he has built a solid foundation in exploring how sustainability parameters can be integrated into organizational strategy through Balanced Scorecards. His work bridges academia and industry, drawing on years of experience in global business services (GBS), business process outsourcing (BPO), and robotic process automation (RPA). He is proficient in qualitative research methods and has published impactful scholarly work in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters. Dr. Ali has worked with multinational corporations like British American Tobacco and has strong expertise in financial processes, particularly procure-to-pay systems using tools such as SAP TAO and Ariba. His communication skills, research acumen, and commitment to environmental and operational excellence make him a valuable contributor to both academic research and practical implementation strategies.

professional profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Agha Shadab Ali earned his Ph.D. (2019–2023) in Sustainability Balanced Scorecard for Performance Management among Shared Service Centers from Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. His doctoral research explored integrating sustainability into the Balanced Scorecard framework to enhance organizational performance in shared service environments. Employing qualitative research techniques, he examined success factors influencing effective scorecard implementation. He holds an MBA from the same university (2011), where he developed expertise in strategic management, organizational development, and sustainability practices. Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Ali has demonstrated excellence in applying theory to practice, particularly in contexts involving environmental responsibility, stakeholder engagement, and performance optimization. His academic qualifications are complemented by certifications and experience in modern enterprise systems like SAP and Ariba, enabling a multidimensional understanding of performance management from both operational and strategic perspectives.

work Experience

Dr. Agha Shadab Ali brings over a decade of professional experience in financial analysis, customer service, and business operations within leading global companies. Most notably, he worked as a Financial Analyst (Procure-to-Pay) at British American Tobacco Malaysia (2015), where he specialized in end-to-end accounts payable processes. Prior to this, he was a Customer Account Executive at Manpower Range Sections, Malaysia (2011–2015), handling client operations and customer communication. His industrial experience is enhanced by expertise in enterprise platforms like SAP TAO, Ariba, and MS Office Suite, making him adept at business process optimization. Dr. Ali has led User Acceptance Testing (UAT) initiatives and contributed to Robotic Process Automation (RPA) projects to improve operational accuracy. His career reflects a combination of analytical acumen, hands-on system knowledge, and strategic vision, positioning him to contribute to performance enhancement in complex business service environments.

Research Focus

Dr. Agha Shadab Ali’s research centers on sustainability integration, Balanced Scorecards (BSC), and performance management in Shared Service Centers (SSCs). His doctoral work introduced a conceptual framework for embedding sustainability parameters into the BSC model, aiming to elevate organizational performance and align it with environmental and stakeholder goals. He emphasizes qualitative research methods to uncover real-world implementation challenges and success factors. His research highlights the synergy between sustainability and performance optimization, bridging academic theory and practical execution. Dr. Ali’s ongoing projects explore digitalization, technological innovation, and environmental responsibility within organizational contexts. His work contributes to shaping strategic decision-making, supporting managers in adopting data-driven, sustainable solutions. By collaborating with industry professionals and academic experts, he continues to develop actionable models that enhance transparency, accountability, and long-term value in service-based organizations.

Awards and honors

Dr. Agha Shadab Ali has been acknowledged for his academic excellence and research contributions in sustainability and performance management. He served as the corresponding author for a peer-reviewed journal article in the Scopus-indexed Heliyon Journal, indicating his role as a lead researcher. His work has been recognized for providing innovative frameworks for implementing sustainability-focused scorecards in Shared Service Centers (SSCs). He has actively participated in academic seminars and workshops on sustainability and strategic performance, receiving appreciation from both peers and mentors for his insightful analyses and impactful presentations. As an emerging thought leader, Dr. Ali’s contributions extend to book chapters published by reputable academic publishers in Malaysia. His research is currently under review for publication in a Scopus Q1 journal, a testament to his growing recognition in academic circles. With additional manuscripts in progress, he continues to expand his influence in the sustainability and business management landscape.

🛠️ Professional Skills

Dr. Agha Shadab Ali possesses a robust suite of professional and technical skills essential for performance-driven roles in both academic and corporate environments. He is highly proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and Project), allowing him to design impactful reports, dashboards, and analytical tools. He has hands-on experience in enterprise applications such as SAP TAO, Ariba, and NVivo (for qualitative data analysis), equipping him to lead digital transformation initiatives and process automation through RPA frameworks. Dr. Ali is also experienced in conducting and leading User Acceptance Testing (UAT), ensuring operational efficiency and system integration. He has excellent organizational and time-management skills, demonstrated through successful project completions under tight deadlines. His communication skills, both verbal and written, facilitate effective engagement with stakeholders across functions. With strong presentation skills and a keen eye for detail, Dr. Ali is well-prepared to thrive in strategic and analytical roles.

Conclusion

Dr. Agha Shadab Ali is a promising and deserving candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award, especially in the early-career researcher category. His innovative work on sustainability performance frameworks in shared services, supported by relevant industry experience and academic rigor, positions him as a valuable contributor to the field. With a focused effort on increasing publication output, citation impact, and international collaboration, he is well on track to becoming a leading researcher in organizational sustainability and performance management.

Publications to Noted

Technological innovation and sustainability of shared service: Insights from industry players

Heliyon

2025-02 | Journal article

Contributors: Agha Shadab Ali; Ruhanita Maelah

Afshin Khodaparast | Low-carbon | Excellence in Research

Posted on 28/02/202528/02/2025 by TOT Awards

Dr. Afshin Khodaparast | Low-carbon | Excellence in Research

Researcher at Shahid beheshti university, Iran

Afshin Khodaparast is a distinguished civil engineer and researcher based in Tehran, Iran. He specializes in sustainable concrete materials and earthquake engineering, focusing on developing innovative green concrete solutions. With extensive academic training and industry experience, he has contributed to multiple high-impact research projects, particularly in earthquake-resistant structures and self-compacting earth concrete. As the CEO of ARPACIVIL, Afshin is dedicated to advancing eco-friendly construction technologies and implementing cutting-edge methodologies in the civil engineering sector. He has published extensively in renowned journals and conferences, showcasing his expertise in structural performance and materials science. Passionate about continuous learning and professional collaboration, Afshin actively participates in prestigious engineering societies such as ASCE and ACI. His work aims to bridge the gap between sustainable materials and resilient infrastructure, making significant strides in environmental conservation and structural safety.

professional profiles

Scopus Profile

Education

Afshin holds a Ph.D. in Earthquake Engineering from Shahid Beheshti University (2019-2024), where he researched the feasibility of self-compacted earth concrete in construction under the supervision of Dr. Kianoosh Samimi. He completed his Master of Science in Earthquake Engineering at Noshirvani University of Technology (2013-2016), focusing on the behavior of tall buildings under rotational earthquake components. His Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Islamic Azad University (2009-2013) laid the foundation for his expertise in structural analysis and design. His strong academic background, coupled with a passion for sustainable materials, has positioned him at the forefront of civil engineering research.

work Experience

As the CEO of ARPACIVIL, Afshin leads innovative construction and research projects, particularly in green materials and earthquake-resistant structures. His experience includes working on high-rise buildings with outrigger systems, investigating self-compacting earth concrete, and evaluating seismic responses in structures. He has been an integral part of earthquake damage assessment teams, including the 2017 Kermanshah Earthquake Response Team. With hands-on experience in advanced structural analysis software such as ETABS, SAP2000, OpenSees, and ABAQUS, he has conducted numerous simulations to optimize building safety. His leadership roles in civil engineering organizations reflect his dedication to advancing structural engineering practices globally.

Research Focus

Afshin’s research revolves around earthquake engineering, green concrete technology, and sustainable construction materials. His Ph.D. dissertation explores the application of self-compacted earth concrete to enhance sustainability and reduce carbon emissions in the construction industry. His work also investigates seismic responses in high-rise structures, focusing on outrigger and belt-truss systems to improve structural resilience. He has published extensively on the impact of recycled fine aggregates, nano-silica, and rotational earthquake components on building performance. His interdisciplinary research aims to create environmentally friendly and disaster-resilient infrastructures.

Awards & Honors🏆

Afshin has been recognized for his contributions to civil engineering research, particularly in sustainable materials and earthquake engineering. He has received accolades for his publications on self-compacting earth concrete, high-rise structural behavior, and recycled materials in construction. As an executive board member of the Qaemshahr Engineers Association, he has played a key role in engineering education and innovation. His active membership in ASCE, ACI, and the Iranian Earthquake Engineering Association further underscores his commitment to professional excellence.

Conclusion

Publications to Noted

Title: Effect of Pumice on Self-Compacting Earth Concrete: Mechanical and Microstructural Characteristics, and Life Cycle Assessments

👨‍🔬 Authors:

Afshin Khodaparast (A. Khodaparast)

Kianoosh Samimi (K. Samimi)

Javad Eslami (J. Eslami)

Mahyar Pakan (M. Pakan)

📅 Year: 2025

Justin Dossou | Forest ecology | Environmental Education Leadership

Posted on 24/02/202524/02/2025 by TOT Awards

Assist. Prof. Dr. Justin Dossou | Forest ecology | Environmental Education Leadership

Research Assistant at Laboratory of Study and Forest Research (Lerf), University of Parakou,Benin

Justin Dossou is a dedicated environmental consultant and researcher from Benin, specializing in forest conservation and sustainable management. Born on June 8, 1989, in Adakplamè, he belongs to the Mahi ethnic group and currently resides in Parakou, Benin. With a passion for ecological restoration, he collaborates with the Forestry Studies and Research Laboratory (LERF) at the University of Parakou. His expertise lies in tropical forest flora identification, forest inventory, and conservation techniques for endangered species. Over the years, he has participated in numerous research projects and scientific meetings, contributing significantly to the sustainable management of forest ecosystems. Through various field studies, he actively supports initiatives aimed at balancing development with environmental preservation. His work focuses on preserving biodiversity and mitigating the impacts of deforestation while advocating for urban forestry to enhance community well-being.

professional profiles

ORCID

Education

Justin Dossou holds a Professional Master’s degree in Development and Management of Natural Resources with a specialization in Forestry Sciences and Techniques from the Faculty of Agronomy, University of Parakou (2020). Prior to that, he earned a Professional License in Development and Management of Natural Resources (2016) from the same institution. His academic foundation began with a Baccalaureate in Secondary Education in Biology and Geology (2008) and a Brevet d’Etude du Premier Cycle (2008). He also obtained a Primary Study Certificate in 2004. His academic journey has been complemented by hands-on research, including grants from ITTO (2020) and IDEA WILD (2021) for projects on the sustainable management of tropical forests. His educational background has equipped him with skills in ecological research, forest conservation, and community-based resource management, making him a key contributor to environmental sustainability in Benin.

work Experience

Justin Dossou has extensive experience in environmental management and forestry conservation. As an individual consultant collaborating with LERF at the University of Parakou, he has participated in key research projects. His fieldwork includes a 2019 inventory of park management in Northern Benin, a 2020 survey on cashew plantations, and supervising landscaping activities in Natitingou (2022). He has contributed to climate resilience projects, such as the ICT-based Climate Services Initiative (2022), and has been involved in impact assessments for environmental conservation. In 2023, he participated in evaluating the Pro-Cashew project and assessing the effects of a modern high school construction on forest cover. His hands-on expertise spans forest inventory, species identification, ecological monitoring, and conservation planning. Through his professional endeavors, he actively engages in balancing developmental needs with environmental conservation, ensuring sustainable forest resource management across Benin.

Research Focus

Justin Dossou’s research revolves around sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and ecological restoration. His studies focus on identifying and preserving endangered tropical species, developing optimal nursery production conditions, and assessing the impact of human activities on forest regeneration. His research on Pterocarpus erinaceus, Afzelia africana, and Khaya senegalensis contributes to conservation strategies that promote sustainable harvesting and species survival. He also investigates the role of urban forestry in enhancing public well-being and the effectiveness of reforestation techniques. Additionally, his research explores agroforestry’s role in ecosystem resilience, particularly in mitigating climate change effects. Through multidisciplinary approaches, he seeks to bridge scientific research and practical conservation efforts, ensuring a balance between development and ecological sustainability. His findings have been published in international journals, reinforcing his contribution to global environmental conservation efforts.

Awards & Honors🏆

Justin Dossou has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to forestry research and conservation. In 2020, he received the prestigious ITTO grant for his research on the restoration of tropical forests with Afzelia africana, Pterocarpus erinaceus, and Khaya senegalensis in Benin. This project aimed at mitigating anthropogenic disturbances through ecological reconstitution strategies. In 2021, he secured the IDEA WILD grant, focusing on the impact of mutilation on vegetative development and reproductive dynamics of key forest species. His participation in international scientific conferences, including those at the University of Parakou (2022) and Kara University (2023), highlights his growing influence in the field. His academic and field contributions have cemented his reputation as a leading expert in natural resource management and conservation in West Africa. His work continues to support initiatives that enhance sustainable forest practices and biodiversity conservation.

Publications to Noted

“Effects of leaf harvesting intensity on fruiting processes in three fodder tree species in the West African Savannah”

Authors: Justin Dossou, Towanou Houetchegnon, Christine A.I.N. Ouinsavi, Terence N. Suinyuy

Journal: Forest Ecology and Management

Year: 2025

Citations: Not yet available

“Effects of Fire, Logging, and Pruning on the Ecological Structure of Afzelia Africana, Khaya Senegalensis and Pterocarpus Erinaceus Populations in the African Savannah”

Author: Justin Dossou

Type: Preprint

Year: 2023

Citations: Not yet available

“CARACTERISATION DES PRATIQUES CULTURALES ET DE GESTION DES PLANTATIONS D’ANACARDIERS (Anacardium occidentale L.) AU BENIN”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: Agronomie Africaine Spécial

Year: 2022

“Traditional uses of African rosewood (Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir. Fabaceae) through the sociolinguistic groups and the pathways of conservation and sustainable management in Benin”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: International Journal of Biodiversity and Conservation

Year: 2021

“Aptitude à la multiplication de Pseudocedrela kotschyi (Schweinf.) Harms par graines et par boutures de tige et de racine au Bénin”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences

Year: 2020

“Establishing optimal conditions for nursery production and domestication of Crassocephalum crepidioides (Benth.) S. Moore.”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: Journal of Tropical Biology and Conservation

Year: 2019

“Effect of cuttings diameter and indol acetic acid on rooting of Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir. stem cuttings”

Author: Justin Dossou

Journal: International Journal of Agroforestry and Silviculture

Year: 2019

Wen-Pei Sung | Environmental Science | Best Faculty Award

Posted on 10/02/202510/02/2025 by TOT Awards

Prof. Dr. Wen-Pei Sung | Environmental Science | Best Faculty Award

Lifetime Distinguished Professor at National Chin-Yi University of Technology , Taiwan

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung is a distinguished academic and engineering expert, currently serving as a Lifetime Distinguished Professor at National Chin-Yi University of Technology in Taiwan. He has also held leadership roles including Vice-President of Academic Affairs, Dean of the College of Humanities and Creativity, and Department Chair. Dr. Sung’s contributions to civil, structural, and environmental engineering are significant, especially in the areas of vocational education, structural dynamics, earthquake engineering, and green technologies. He has received numerous honors, including fellowships from prestigious organizations like IET, IETI, APTSA, and ICDM. Dr. Sung is known for his expertise in sustainable urban planning, climate adaptation, and structural safety, with extensive involvement in research and international collaborations. His groundbreaking work has had a substantial impact on environmental resilience and infrastructure development.

professional profiles

Orcid

Education

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung has a robust academic background, including advanced studies and qualifications in civil, structural, and environmental engineering. He earned his Ph.D. in Structural Engineering and has pursued additional specialized certifications that have helped shape his exceptional career. Dr. Sung has dedicated himself to fostering a sustainable engineering ecosystem and has designed and contributed to various educational programs, emphasizing the importance of practical knowledge in structural dynamics and earthquake engineering. His passion for integrating green technologies into engineering curricula has made him a respected figure in academic circles. He has lectured widely on topics such as smart infrastructure and sustainable urban development.

work Experience

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung brings extensive experience to both academia and industry. He has held numerous leadership roles at National Chin-Yi University of Technology, including serving as Vice-President of Academic Affairs, Dean, and Department Chair. Dr. Sung’s research interests include structural control mechanisms, green technologies, and urban resilience, specifically in earthquake engineering and environmental sustainability. His applied work has spanned across various projects focused on sustainable infrastructure, adaptive design, and structural health monitoring. Dr. Sung has been a government consultant, serving on committees related to urban planning, low-carbon technology, and geological sensitivity. His involvement in the Resilient Taiwan Project highlights his practical contributions to disaster resilience and climate adaptation. Additionally, he has advised various industry projects, focusing on green building technologies and sustainable urban planning.

Research Focus

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung’s research focuses on enhancing infrastructure sustainability, efficiency, and resilience. He has conducted groundbreaking work in structural control for buildings to improve their stability, incorporating seismic technologies to create earthquake-resistant structures. Dr. Sung’s research extends to sustainable environmental management practices, with a focus on green technologies for energy-saving in buildings and urban environments. His work includes the design and implementation of smart bridges using the Neutral Equilibrium Mechanism, structural health monitoring systems, and the application of permeable pavement systems for urban water management. He has also explored adaptive design concepts for urban flood retention spaces and green buildings. His ongoing projects, funded by Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council, investigate ways to integrate ecological and technological systems for urban disaster resilience and climate adaptation.

Conclusion

Dr. Wen-Pei Sung’s remarkable achievements in research, teaching, and industry consultancy make him a strong candidate for the Best Faculty Award. His contributions to structural engineering, sustainable urban development, and green technologies have established him as a leader in his field. His commitment to excellence in education and interdisciplinary research, coupled with his significant influence in the global engineering community, makes him deserving of this prestigious recognition.

Publications to Noted

Evaluating the Impact of Vertical Green Systems on Building Temperature Regulation: Effects of Shading Density and Proximity