Saul Nurick | Sustainability Strategies | Best Paper Award

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Dr. Saul Nurick | Sustainability Strategies | Best Paper Award

Dr. Saul Nurick, Dept of Construction Economics and Management, University of Cape Town, South Africa.

Dr. Saul David Nurick is a dual-national (South African & Spanish) academic and senior lecturer at the University of Cape Town’s Department of Construction Economics and Management. A multifaceted professional, he holds degrees in Information Systems, Property Studies, and Construction Economics, and earned his PhD in Psychology in 2023. His work resides at the intersection of built environment and human performance, blending technology, sustainability, and behavioural science. Fluent in English with intermediate Spanish, Saul’s diverse cultural and disciplinary background allows him to thrive in global academic and professional contexts.

Profile 👤

Orcid

Education 🎓

Dr. Saul’s academic journey began with a BCom in Information Systems (2004), followed by an honours BSc in Property Studies (2006), and a MPhil in Construction Economics and Management (2012), all from Cape Town. He capped his formal education by completing a PhD in Psychology (2023) at the University of the Witwatersrand, under Professor Andrew Thatcher. His doctoral research—“Impact of Green Building Features and Initiatives on Individual Productivity and Organisational Performance in Office Buildings”—bridges psychology and built environment studies.

Experience đź’Ľ

Since 2012, Dr. Saul has lectured extensively at UCT, becoming a permanent staff lecturer in 2014 and senior lecturer in 2018. He convened over a dozen undergraduate and postgraduate courses ranging from property investment mathematics to Masters- and PhD-level research supervision. He’s also served as external examiner at several institutions, including WITS and Henley Business School. Further, he’s a registered MRICS professional member since 2014. This blend of teaching, academic administration, industry affiliation, and rigorous supervision ensures Saul’s work remains both applied and scholarly.

Research Interests 🔍

Dr Nurick’s research focuses on the impacts of green building design on human productivity and organizational outcomes. He investigates how sustainable infrastructure and information systems in office environments affect occupant performance, well‑being, and corporate value. His interests also include property finance, construction economics, and the behavioral dimensions of property information systems. By fusing psychology with built environment disciplines, Dr. Saul contributes to interdisciplinary sustainability discourse and evidence‑driven strategies for healthier workplaces.

Awards 🏅

Dr. Saul is a qualified Professional Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS) since August 2014. While specific personal awards weren’t listed, many of his supervised postgraduate theses were finalists or winners in the Greenovate student awards: e.g., Oratile Masia & Mihlali Solombela (3rd place Greenovate, 2024), Paige Waberski & Kiah Wallace (3rd place, 2024), Isobella van der Merwe & Aiden van Wyk (winner, 2023), Realeboga Lekoma & Tshifhiwa Mudau (finalists, 2023). This consistent record attests to Saul’s mentorship excellence.

Publication Top Notes đź“š

An Investigation into the Benefits of EDGE Residential Estates in terms of Real-World Savings

Investigating the Drivers and Barriers to Implementing Green Building Features and Initiatives (GBFIs) in South Africa’s Private Housing Sector

An Investigation into the Benefits of EDGE Residential Estates in terms of Real-World Savings

Examining the impact of indoor environmental quality on individual productivity of knowledge workers in green certified buildings

Enhanced Indoor Environmental Quality and the Link to Individual Productivity and Organisational Performance: A Scoping Review

Farina Gul | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Farina Gul | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Farina Gul, University of Adelaide, Australia

Farina Gul is a passionate PhD Candidate in Public Health at the University of Adelaide, Australia. With an extensive background in sexual and reproductive health, family planning, health policy, and health economics, she has contributed significantly to the development of frameworks for integrating family planning services into broader health systems, particularly in low-resource settings. Her work reflects her commitment to global health, especially for underrepresented communities. Farina is a proven innovator, securing several competitive research grants, including from WHO and the University of Adelaide.

 🌍 Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓

Farina holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Master’s in Applied Health Economics from the University of South Wales, UK, and a Master’s in Health Policy and Management from Aga Khan University, Pakistan. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Public Health at the University of Adelaide, where her research focuses on integrating family planning services with reproductive health services in low-resource settings. This work is expected to make substantial contributions to public health policy and practice globally.

Experience 🧑‍🔬

Farina’s professional experience spans over a decade, beginning with her early work in health policy analysis and culminating in her current research. As a PhD Researcher at the University of Adelaide, she has undertaken extensive projects such as developing frameworks for family planning integration in low- and middle-income countries. Previously, she served as a Principal Investigator at Aga Khan University, leading critical projects funded by WHO. Her expertise also includes mHealth solutions for family planning and sexual health assessment.

Research Interests 🔬

Farina’s research interests lie at the intersection of public health, policy, and economics. She focuses on sexual and reproductive health, health systems integration, and family planning in resource-limited settings. Her work aims to understand how policies can be designed and implemented to improve health outcomes in low-income countries. Farina is particularly focused on the cost-effectiveness of self-care interventions and the integration of digital health solutions in reproductive health services.

Awards 🏆

Farina has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards throughout her career. She received a WHO grant for cognitive testing of a survey instrument and a Research Training Program scholarship from the University of Adelaide. She has also secured several international travel grants to present her research at prominent global public health conferences, which further solidify her standing in the academic community.

Publication Top Notes đź“š

Cognitive testing in 19 countries to refine WHO’s Sexual Health Assessment of Practices and Experiences.

Men’s involvement in family planning programs: an exploratory study from Karachi, Pakistan

Women’s perceptions about mobile health solutions for selection and use of family planning methods in Karachi: a feasibility study

We Won’t Go There: Barriers to Accessing Maternal and Newborn Care in District Thatta, Pakistan

Use of Smokeless Tobacco Before Conception and Its Relationship With Maternal and Fetal Outcomes of Pregnancy in Thatta, Pakistan: Findings From Women First Study

jiaxi wu | Environmental management and green development | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. jiaxi wu – management and green development  – Best Researcher Award

China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing | China

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Education and Training

He embarked on her academic journey with a solid foundation in finance and international business. She obtained her bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University, where she majored in Finance and minored in International Business. This multidisciplinary approach equipped her with a robust understanding of global financial systems and business dynamics. Driven by a passion for innovation and technology, she pursued a master’s degree at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, majoring in E-commerce and Engineering Management. Her master’s studies deepened her understanding of the intersection between technology and business, paving the way for her future research endeavors.

 Professional Endeavors 💼

Academic Positions

His professional journey is marked by her commitment to academic excellence and her pursuit of impactful research. She is currently in the final year of her PhD at the China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, focusing on environmental management and green development. Her research interests are centered around ecological economics and enterprise innovation management. Throughout her academic career, He has demonstrated a remarkable ability to translate theoretical concepts into practical solutions for contemporary environmental challenges.

 

Contributions and Research Focus on management and green developmentđź“š

Research and Innovations

He has made significant contributions to the field of environmental management and green development. Her research is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature, combining elements of ecological economics and enterprise innovation management. She has authored a total of 13 papers in SCI/SSCI journals, with several publications in leading SCI TOP journals. Notably, one of her papers has been rated 3-star ABS, highlighting the quality and impact of her work. his research projects are diverse, addressing various aspects of environmental management, including sustainability practices, green technologies, and policy implications.

 

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

His academic excellence has been recognized through various accolades and awards. She has been awarded the second school-level scholarships at the China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, a testament to her dedication and scholarly achievements. In addition to her research publications, he serves as an anonymous reviewer for prestigious journals such as Energy Efficiency and Food Policy, further demonstrating her expertise and contributions to the academic community. Her work has garnered high citations, reflecting its significance and influence in the field.

 Impact and Influence 🌍

Community Impact

His research has had a profound impact on the field of environmental management and green development. Her work on ecological economics and enterprise innovation management has provided valuable insights into sustainable practices and their implementation in various industries. By exploring the economic and managerial aspects of environmental sustainability, he has contributed to a better understanding of how businesses can adopt green practices while maintaining economic viability. Her research has influenced policy discussions and decision-making processes, highlighting the importance of integrating environmental considerations into business strategies.

 Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Future Contributions

As he approaches the culmination of her PhD journey, her legacy in the field of environmental management and green development is already well-established. Her interdisciplinary approach and commitment to impactful research have set a high standard for future scholars. Looking ahead, he aims to continue her research and contribute to the development of sustainable solutions for global environmental challenges. Her future contributions are expected to further bridge the gap between academic research and practical applications, fostering a more sustainable and resilient world.

 

Notable Publications 

BENOIE MATHEW | Smart City | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. BENOIE MATHEW – Smart City – Best Researcher Award

University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, India | China

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Education and Training

He is a strategic, visionary, and risk-taker with an unmatched track record in conceptualizing and implementing effective ideas and strategies in major projects and companies. His academic journey began with a B.Tech. in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from the University of Calicut, India, in 1999. This solid technical foundation laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in various high-profile roles. He further enhanced his academic qualifications by pursuing an Executive Programme in Financial Risk & Investment Management from the Indian Institute of Management – Calcutta (IIM-C) in 2012. Demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning and excellence, Benoie earned his Master’s in Business Administration (Commendation) from the University of Bedfordshire, UK, in 2021. Currently, he is a part-time Ph.D. researcher in Management at the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, India, focusing on Sustainable Smart City Developments.

 Professional Endeavors 💼

Academic Positions

His professional career is marked by his extensive experience and leadership in various high-stakes roles. As of February 2024, he serves as the General Manager at Oman Metal Industries/ENFAB Intl, where he oversees company operations, ensures the delivery of innovative technology solutions, and drives business expansion. His key responsibilities include leadership and management, operational oversight, client relations, financial management, strategic planning, technology and innovation, HSE & quality assurance, human resources, sales and marketing, and risk management.

From March 2022 to January 2024, Benoie held the position of Portfolio Project Manager at North Rumaila – West Qurna. In this role, he strategized gas fields portfolio projects by maximizing operational proficiency and capital efficiency. He developed and managed scope, strategy, project plans, resources, and budget for the full lifecycle of the project, ensuring consistency and best practice methodologies for project delivery. He liaised with contractors, vendors, sub-contractors, and consultants to manage the portfolio of projects through various phases, from concept selection to commissioning and startup.

Contributions and Research Focus on Smart Cityđź“š

  • His research focus as a part-time Ph.D. researcher is on Sustainable Smart City Developments. His core competencies include opportunity framing and assurance, portfolio project management, techno-commercial operations, stakeholder management, CAPEX management, front-end development, concept selection, procurement/contract management, cost optimization, and financial risk opportunity. His dedication to advancing sustainable urban development is reflected in his academic and professional pursuits, where he combines theoretical knowledge with practical implementation strategies.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

His career is decorated with numerous awards and recognitions that highlight his exceptional contributions to project management and sustainable development. Some of his notable awards include:

  • Petroleum Development Oman:
    • Oil South Engineering Silver Award for Capital Efficiency Improvement of Haima West Water-Flood Infill Project, 2021.
    • Oil South Director Award for Aggressive Cost Reduction Drive in Marmul Polymer Phase III project, 2016.
    • Engineering & Operations Director Award for saving millions through capital efficiency design improvements, 2015.
    • Gold winner of PDO’s Chairman’s Award for Excellence for the Flare Recovery Project, 2013.
    • Silver winner of PDO’s Chairman’s Award for Excellence for the Nimr Reed Bed Project, 2011.
  • International Awards for Nimr Reed Bed Project:
    • Oman Green Awards – The Green Habitat Award, 2013.
    • Environmental Award from the Regional Clean Sea Organization, 2012.
    • MEED Quality Awards (National winner) – Sustainable Project of the Year, 2012.
    • Project of the Year at the CWC Global Water: Oil & Gas Awards, 2012.
    • GCC Sustainable Project of the Year at the MEED Quality Awards, 2012.
    • Technology Innovation Award from Frost & Sullivan, 2012.
    • Oman Green Awards – The Green Innovation Award, 2012.
    • Best MENA Oil and Gas HSE Award at the ADIPEC awards, 2012.

 Impact and Influence 🌍

Community Impact

his work has significantly impacted the fields of project management, sustainable development, and smart city planning. His expertise in portfolio project management and his strategic vision have led to the successful completion of numerous high-profile projects, resulting in substantial cost savings and operational efficiencies. His role in the Nimr Reed Bed Project, the first commercial produced water treatment wetland in the world, stands as a testament to his innovative approach and commitment to environmental sustainability.

 Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

    • his legacy is characterized by his relentless pursuit of excellence and his ability to drive transformational change in the organizations he serves. His ongoing Ph.D. research on Sustainable Smart City Developments underscores his commitment to creating a better, more sustainable future. As he continues to apply his strategic insights and leadership skills, Benoie is poised to make even greater contributions to the fields of project management and sustainable development. His work not only benefits the organizations he leads but also sets a benchmark for industry best practices.In conclusion, he is a strategic, visionary leader whose academic and professional achievements reflect his dedication to excellence and innovation. His impact on major project implementation, management assignments, and sustainable development initiatives is profound, and his future contributions are eagerly anticipated by the industry and his peers.

Notable PublicationsÂ