Ndumiso Daluxolo Ngidi | Social Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Published on 31/12/202506/01/2026 by Innovation Technologist

Prof. Ndumiso Daluxolo Ngidi | Social Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Associate Professor | Durban University of Technology | South Africa

Prof. Ndumiso Daluxolo Ngidi is a leading scholar in inclusive education, gender, and social justice research, with a strong emphasis on gender-based violence, masculinities, sexuality education, and adolescent wellbeing in Southern Africa. His interdisciplinary work employs qualitative, quantitative, and participatory visual methodologies to explore how education systems intersect with inequality, identity, and social norms. He has contributed to and led internationally funded research initiatives and published extensively in high-impact peer-reviewed journals. His scholarly output comprises 26 documents, with 152 citations across 129 citing documents and an h-index of 9, reflecting the influence and relevance of his research to policy, practice, and academic discourse.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

160

120

Citations 152

Documents 26

h-index 9

🟦 Citations 🟥 Documents 🟩 h-index

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Featured Publications

Early Marriage in Rural Zimbabwe Girls: Constrained Agency and Sociocultural Barriers

– Girlhood Studies, 2025

Black Rural Girlhood and the Moral Economies of Transactional Sex in South Africa: Survival, Desire, and Inequality

– Feminist Studies, 2025

Gender, Poverty, and Rural Youth Agency in Southern Africa

– Gender & Society, 2024

Structural Inequalities and Young Women’s Sexual Economies in Rural Contexts

– Journal of Southern African Studies, 2023

Youth, Gender, and Survival Strategies in Marginalized Rural Communities

– African Sociological Review, 2022

Teresa Valverde Esteve | Social Sciences | Innovative Research Award

Published on 02/12/202502/12/2025 by Innovation Technologist

Dr. Teresa Valverde Esteve | Social Sciences | Innovative Research Award

University of Valencia | Spain

Dr. Teresa Valverde Esteve is a distinguished scholar and innovator whose work advances the fields of Physical Education and Didactics through evidence-based, interdisciplinary approaches. As a senior academic and leader of the MUAMI research group, she integrates active methodologies such as non-linear pedagogy, cooperative learning, service learning, gamification, and integrated foreign-language learning to enhance teaching and learning processes. Her scholarship spans more than fifty indexed journal publications, multiple internationally recognized research projects, and impactful collaborations with universities and research centers across Europe and Latin America. She has contributed to the development and validation of tools for analyzing teaching resources, evaluating physical activity promotion programs, and assessing physical fitness in both individual and team sports. Her research also explores environmental and social barriers to physical activity, offering insights that inform inclusive and context-sensitive educational strategies. In addition to her academic contributions, she has co-authored books and engages in multidisciplinary innovation through partnerships with experts from diverse fields. With a strong citation record, editorial experience, and leadership in innovative pedagogical research, Dr. Valverde Esteve continues to influence global perspectives on physical education, active learning, and the advancement of educational innovation.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Cano, J. C. Z., Valverde-Esteve, T., González-Fernández, F. T., & Ruiz-Montero, P. J. (2022). Efectos de un programa de Aprendizaje-Servicio sobre Ejercicio Físico concurrente con personas adultas-mayores: Pilates y juegos de socialización [Effects of a Concurrent Physical Activity Service-Learning program with older adults: Pilates and socialization games]. Retos, 45.

Chiva-Bartoll, O., Maravé-Vivas, M., Salvador-García, C., & Valverde-Esteve, T. (2021). Impact of a physical education service-learning programme on ASD children: A mixed-methods approach. Children and Youth Services Review, 121, 106008.

Díaz-Barahona, J., Esteve, T. V., & Moya-Mata, I. (2022). Estereotipos asociados al cuerpo humano: Análisis de aplicaciones móviles usadas en la educación físico-deportiva [Stereotypes associated with the human body: Analysis of mobile devices applications used in physical and sports education]. Pixel-Bit, Revista de Medios y Educación, 65, Article 90297.

Maravé-Vivas, M., Gil-Gómez, J., Valverde-Esteve, T., & Salvador-Garcia, C., & Chiva-Bartoll, O. (2022). A longitudinal study of the effects of service-learning on physical education teacher education students. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 787346.

Salvador-García, C., Chiva-Bartoll, O., Belaire-Meliá, A., & Valverde-Esteve, T. (2022). Motor performance in school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Effects of an extracurricular physical education program and socio-ecological correlates. Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, 34, 693–712.

Ling Yin Chang | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on 16/11/202525/11/2025 by Innovation Technologist

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ling Yin Chang | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at National Taiwan University | Taiwan

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ling Yin Chang is a distinguished scholar in health behavior, developmental epidemiology, and public health, recognized for her extensive contributions to understanding how early-life environments and psychosocial factors influence lifelong health. Her research integrates behavioral science, quantitative psychology, and advanced longitudinal data analytics to explore critical domains such as sleep, mental health, aggression, resilience, developmental risk, and preventive health behaviors. By employing robust cohort designs and sophisticated multilevel modeling, Dr. Chang examines the complex interplay between family dynamics, social environments, and individual developmental pathways. Her influential body of work spans top-tier international journals in public health, pediatrics, epidemiology, behavioral science, sleep research, and adolescent health. She has produced high-impact scholarship reflected in 49 publications, 1,376 citations across 1,290 documents, and an h-index of 21 – demonstrating the reach and significance of her research within the scientific community. Dr. Chang’s studies on adverse childhood experiences, cardiometabolic risk, resilience mechanisms, and psychosocial development have contributed valuable insights that support evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents, and families. Beyond research, Dr. Chang is widely respected for her excellence in teaching, mentoring, and academic leadership. She has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing her contributions to education, student development, and scholarly impact. Her active engagement with professional public health associations, international research networks, and cross-disciplinary collaborations further amplifies her influence. Through her rigorous empirical work and commitment to translating scientific evidence into meaningful public health improvements, Dr. Chang advances understanding of how social, psychological, and environmental determinants shape health trajectories across the life course. Her contributions continue to inform preventive strategies and promote healthier communities worldwide.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Chang, L.-Y., Reyes, H. L. M. N., Gottfredson, N. C., Foshee, V. A., & Ennett, S. T. (2013). A longitudinal examination of psychological, behavioral, academic, and relationship consequences of dating abuse victimization among a primarily rural sample of adolescents. Journal of Adolescent Health, 53(6), 723–729.

Chang, L.-Y., Wang, M.-Y., & Tsai, P.-S. (2016). Diagnostic accuracy of rating scales for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A meta-analysis. Pediatrics, 137(3), e20152749.

Wu, Y.-L., Chang, L.-Y., Lee, H.-C., Fang, S.-C., & Tsai, P.-S. (2017). Sleep disturbances in fibromyalgia: A meta-analysis of case-control studies. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 96, 89–97.

Foshee, V. A., Benefield, T. S., Reyes, H. L. M. N., Ennett, S. T., Faris, R., Chang, L.-Y., … (2013). The peer context and the development of the perpetration of adolescent dating violence. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 42(4), 471–486.

Chiu, H.-Y., Chang, L.-Y., Hsieh, Y.-J., & Tsai, P.-S. (2016). A meta-analysis of diagnostic accuracy of three screening tools for insomnia. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 87, 85–92.

Husnu Misirli | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on 09/09/202509/09/2025 by Innovation Technologist

Mr. Husnu Misirli | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate at Social Sciences University | Turkey

Husnu Misirli is a dedicated scholar and researcher specializing in African studies, international relations, and disaster management. His academic and professional work reflects a strong focus on regional security, migration, conflict resolution, and Turkey–Africa relations. With a combination of field research experience in East Africa and contributions to both academic and policy-oriented platforms, he has established himself as a promising researcher contributing to the understanding of contemporary African and Middle Eastern dynamics.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Google Scholar

Educational Background

He is currently pursuing a PhD in African Studies with a research concentration on regional security in East Africa and Turkey–Africa relations. He holds a Master’s degree in International Relations, where his thesis explored Turkey’s foreign policy in Africa through the lens of soft power. Additionally, he earned a Master’s degree in Disaster and Humanitarian Aid Management with research centered on humanitarian aid coordination in disaster management. His undergraduate studies include dual Bachelor’s degrees in International Relations and Public Administration.

Professional Experience

Misirli serves as a Research and Programmes Coordinator at the Africa Foundation in Ankara, where he has been engaged in academic and policy-related projects. His professional journey includes extensive fieldwork in Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, and Ethiopia, focusing on conflict dynamics, identity politics, and humanitarian access. He has also played active roles in academic conference organization, serving as both organizer and speaker on themes related to African regionalism, security, and diplomacy. Furthermore, he has participated in specialized seminars on Middle Eastern and African affairs, contributing to dialogue between academia and practice.

Research Interests

His primary research interests lie in regional security complexes in Africa, border dynamics, crisis mobilities, migration, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution. He also focuses on soft power, strategic diplomacy, and the evolving nature of Turkey–Africa relations, offering critical insights into global and regional power rivalries.

Awards and Honors

His academic contributions include peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals, as well as a forthcoming book chapter on political history in West Africa. His work has been recognized through participation in international conferences, seminars, and collaborations with senior academics and policymakers.

Research Skills

Misirli has developed strong skills in qualitative field research, policy analysis, and academic writing. His ability to conduct fieldwork in complex environments such as Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, and Ethiopia demonstrates his capacity to engage with diverse socio-political contexts. He is proficient in English, with working knowledge of Russian and French, which enhances his ability to work in multilingual research settings. His expertise combines theoretical grounding with practical field insights, making him effective in bridging academia, diplomacy, and humanitarian concerns.

Publication Top Notes

Effectiveness of Regional Organisations in Solving Security Problems of North Africa: The Libyan Civil War (2011-2022)
Year: 2022
Turkey-UAE Rivalry in Somalia and Its Implications on Regional Dynamics
Year: 2024
Security Perspective on Turkey-Africa Relations: Analysis of Smart Power Strategy
Year: 2023
Turkey’s Foreign Policy in Africa: Somalia Initiative as a Test Case for Turkey’s Soft Power Diplomacy (2005-2022)
Year: 2023

Conclusion

Husnu Misirli represents a new generation of scholars whose interdisciplinary approach enriches the study of African and international relations. His academic achievements, combined with field-based experience and policy engagement, highlight his contribution to research on regional security, diplomacy, and humanitarian studies. With continued scholarly output and professional dedication, he holds significant potential to influence academic discourse and policy practice in his areas of expertise.

Jeewook Hwang | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on 15/05/202515/05/2025 by Innovation Technologist

Prof. Jeewook Hwang | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Jeonbuk National University, South Korea

Professor Jee Wook Hwang, born on August 2, 1965, in Seoul, is a distinguished academic in the field of urban and spatial planning. He currently serves as a Professor in the Department of Urban Engineering at Jeonbuk National University (JBNU), South Korea. With an academic background rooted in both South Korea and Germany, Professor Hwang has developed a unique international perspective that blends theoretical depth with practical policy engagement. He is not only a scholar but also an active contributor to national and regional development policies, holding advisory positions in several governmental and civil society organizations.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Educational Background 🎓

Professor Hwang pursued his undergraduate studies in Philosophy at Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea, where he earned his B.A. degree in 1988. He then moved to Germany for graduate studies in Spatial Planning at TU Dortmund, one of the leading institutions in the field. Over a decade of study at TU Dortmund, he obtained his Vordiplom (1993), Dipl.-Ing. (1996), and Dr.-Ing. (2000) degrees. His doctoral studies were supported by a prestigious German government scholarship awarded through the Friedrich-Naumann Foundation.

Professional Experience 💼

Since 2002, Professor Hwang has been a faculty member at Jeonbuk National University. In addition to his teaching and research duties, he has taken on significant administrative and public service roles. He currently serves as the Director of the Career and Employment Support Office at JBNU and is a specialist on the Presidential Committee for Balanced National Development. He leads the national Smart Geospatial Talent Cultivation Program and chairs its affiliated association. He has advised the Governors Association of Korea and served on the Jeollabuk-do 8th Gubernatorial Transition Team. As Chair of the Jeollabuk-do Government Innovation Committee and long-time executive member of the Korea Planning Association, he has influenced urban policy and planning practices nationwide. His international experience includes a visiting professorship at Texas A&M University between 2009 and 2010.

Research Interests 🔬

Professor Hwang’s research focuses on urban regeneration, spatial planning strategies for declining regions, and the cultivation of geospatial talents aligned with national development goals. He is also deeply interested in the professional identity of urban planners, having authored reflective books that explore the societal roles and self-conceptions of professionals in his field. His work frequently bridges academic research with policy implementation, making him a critical figure in spatial development discourse in Korea.

Awards and Honors🏆✨

Professor Hwang’s contributions have been recognized with numerous honors. In 2024 alone, he received both the Best Paper Award and the Excellent Paper Award from the Korea Urban Regeneration Association. In earlier years, he earned the Excellence in Urban Studies Award from the Korea Planning Association (2019), the DMZ Peace Prize in the academic category (2015), and the Minister’s Commendation from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (2013). He has also been commended by Jeonbuk National University and awarded multiple academic paper prizes. Notably, his academic journey began with the German Government Scholarship, a testament to his early promise as a researcher.

Conclusion🌟

In sum, Professor Jee Wook Hwang is a leading figure in South Korea’s academic and policy circles related to urban and spatial planning. His career reflects a deep commitment to public service, interdisciplinary scholarship, and the mentorship of future spatial planners. With a foundation in German academic rigor and a keen understanding of Korea’s development challenges, he continues to bridge theory and practice in ways that benefit academia, government, and society alike.

Publications 📚

Title: Can smart city development alleviate urban shrinkage in the traditional urban development process?
Journal: Cities
Date: May 2025
DOI: 10.1016/j.cities.2025.105847
Authors: DongLin Yuan, Jeewook Hwang

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