JIZHEN MO | Environmental Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Mr. JIZHEN MO – Environmental Analysis – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Mo Jizhen’s interdisciplinary research, methodological rigor, and proven ability to lead projects from conception to implementation align closely with the criteria of the Best Researcher Award. Her work exemplifies innovation, practical relevance, and scholarly depth—qualities central to this recognition.

The University of Hong Kong | Hong Kong

Profile
Scopus

ORCID

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Mo Jizhen’s academic journey began with a profound curiosity about how human settlements evolve and function, leading to her enrollment in the Human Geography and Urban-Rural Planning Bachelor’s program at Guangzhou University from September 2020 to June 2024. With a GPA of 3.7/4.0, ranking in the top 15% of her class, Mo demonstrated consistent academic excellence. Her foundational education encompassed a rich blend of theoretical and technical coursework, including Physical Geography, Human Geography, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Urban Geography, Logistic Geography, and Real Estate Management. Through these, she developed a multidimensional understanding of spatial development and urban planning challenges. Particularly significant was her engagement with the Principle of Urban Planning, where she explored the synergy between spatial policy and sustainable urban development.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Mo translated her academic knowledge into practical skills through impactful internships. At the Guangdong Urban & Rural Planning and Design Institute Co., Ltd., she interned with the 5th Planning and Design Office, where she contributed to planning optimization by drafting layout and schematic maps aligned with new urban strategies. Her ideas on sustainable development—particularly the concept of “Mutual Promotion of Characteristic Resources Protection and Village Development”—were incorporated into official regional planning strategies. Earlier, during her internship at the Guangzhou Urban Planning & Design Survey Research Institute, she was part of the Industry Research Department at the Geographic Information Center. There, she assisted in the monitoring of the property market, spatial data analysis, and industrial planning, contributing to reports that were later submitted to the local government and utilized in planning documents.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Environmental Analysis

Mo’s most distinguished contribution to academic research was as Project Leader of “Exploring Global Cities: Guangzhou Multicultural Study and Research,” a project recognized with a Second Prize at the national level by the Geographical Society of China. Her role encompassed a full spectrum of research activities includes Conducted a literature review with over 100 academic sources, identifying gaps and framing new research directions, Designed and implemented questionnaires, collecting over 100 valid responses to investigate the multicultural fabric of Guangzhou., Performed semi-structured interviews with 57 individuals, leading to comprehensive interview analysis and Applied spatial analysis tools using GIS to map Points of Interest (POIs) and generate Kernel Density diagrams, revealing the spatial distribution of multiculturalism in the city. Additionally, her bachelor’s dissertation, titled “Self-identity Construction of Queer from the Perspective of Field Theory,” showcased her interdisciplinary approach, intersecting geography with sociology and identity studies.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Mo Jizhen’s academic excellence and leadership have been acknowledged through numerous honors. She received the Outstanding Student Award from Guangzhou University in 2024, along with First Class Scholarships in her 2nd and 4th years. Her research skills earned a Second Prize in the Geography Study Social Research Category in 2021. That same year, she was recognized in the 13th Challenge Cup Student Entrepreneurship Program. She also won a Provincial Project Approval for her participation in the Entrepreneurial Training & Practice Program for College Students in 2023 and was named an Excellent Student of the Young Marxist Training Program in 2022.

Impact and Influence

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Mo’s interdisciplinary approach, especially her engagement with urban multiculturalism and inclusive planning, reflects a deep awareness of contemporary urban issues. Her projects and internships have influenced planning outcomes in Guangzhou, where her spatial analysis work has informed industrial layouts and policy directions.  Her ability to bridge academic theory and professional practice makes her a valuable contributor to any urban policy or planning team. Through her multicultural lens, Mo is contributing to more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable city planning paradigms in China.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Now pursuing a Master’s degree in Transport Policy and Planning at The University of Hong Kong (Sep 2024 – Aug 2025), Mo is poised to extend her influence into the realm of transportation. Her core courses—Transport Policy and Planning, Engineering for Transport Systems, Public Transport Systems, and Transport and Development—reflect her growing expertise in creating integrated and people-centric mobility systems. With a firm foundation in urban-rural planning and a strong orientation toward sustainability, Mo is set to contribute to the evolving global discourse on transport justice, multimodal integration, and urban resilience.

Conclusion

Mo Jizhen exemplifies the next generation of urban thinkers and planners. Her journey from Guangzhou University to The University of Hong Kong, through a rich blend of academic excellence, hands-on project leadership, and innovative research, paints a compelling picture of a scholar-practitioner dedicated to inclusive urban futures. Her commitment to integrating human geography, transport systems, and multicultural urbanism makes her a promising force in shaping the cities of tomorrow.

📚Publications

Embryonic developmental toxicity in marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) caused by combined 17α-ethinylestradiol and hypoxic exposure

 Authors: X., Qin, Xian, J., Mo, Jiezhang, H., Lin, Huiju, R.Y.C., Kong, Richard Yuen Chong, K., Lai, Kengpo

Journals: Frontiers of Environmental Science and Engineering

Temperature-dependent toxicity and mechanisms of florfenicol on the embryonic development of marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma)

Authors: X., Guo, Xingying, X., Gong, Xu, J., Wang, Jinhui, W., Liu, Wenhua, Z., Wang, Zhen

Journals: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety

Carmen Rotondi | Sustainable Design | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Carmen Rotondi – Sustainable Design – Best Researcher Award

 

Sapienza University of Rome | Italy

      Profiles

📍Current Position

Dr. Carmen Rotondi currently holds a Researcher (RTD-A) position in Design at the Department of Planning, Design, and Technology of Architecture (PDTA) at Sapienza University of Rome. This role is aligned with the PNRR PE|11 project, focusing on the thematic line “MICS – Circular and Sustainable Made in Italy,” under the supervision of Prof. L. Imbesi. Her research primarily revolves around materials for design, digital technologies, systemic design approaches, and sustainable innovations in the Italian furniture and fashion industries.

 

📝Publication Achievements 

Journals Published

Dr. Rotondi has an impressive portfolio of scientific publications that reflects her deep engagement with the fields of bio-digital design, material systems, and sustainability. Some of her recent works include: “Bio-digital’ Material Systems” – A chapter in a book published by Springer in 2024, co-authored with S. Lucibello, focusing on new hybrid ways for material-driven design innovation. “Bioreceptive Ceramic Surfaces: Material Experimentations for Responsible Research and Design Innovation in Circular Economy Transition and ‘Ecological Augmentation'” – A significant paper in Sustainability. “How are the informed relations between physical, digital, and biological dimensions changing the design practice, as well as the sustainability paradigm?” – Published in Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology.

🔍Ongoing Research 

Dr. Rotondi is actively involved in research that delves into the convergence of nature and technology, particularly through the lens of Bio-Digital and Bio-Augmented Materiality. Her ongoing projects include: “Bio-digital manufacturing: new hybrid biofabrication protocols as experimental domains of convergence between design and contemporary biosciences.” “Bio-Augmented Materiality: Hybrid and Strategic Visions for Advanced Manufacturing,” which explores innovative approaches to materiality where design and biology intersect.

 🔬Research Interests 

Dr. Rotondi’s research interests are diverse and interdisciplinary, encompassing: Bio-Digital Manufacturing: Exploring new methods of fabricating materials that integrate biological elements. Sustainable Design: Innovating eco-friendly materials and processes within the design and architecture fields. Material Systems: Investigating how materials can be designed and utilized to foster a more sustainable and interconnected relationship between humans and the environment. Biomimetics and Biodesign: Drawing inspiration from nature to create designs that are both functional and environmentally responsible.

🎓Academic Background 

Dr. Rotondi’s academic journey is marked by excellence and dedication: Ph.D. in Planning, Design, and Technology of Architecture (PDTA) from Sapienza University of Rome (2023), with honors. Her thesis, titled “Bio-Augmented Materiality. A Strategic Vision for Bio-Digital Design,” focused on the convergence of nature and artifice in design. International Master’s Degree in Product Design from Sapienza University of Rome (2018), with honors and a thesis on the biological encoding of design. Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design from Sapienza University of Rome (2015), where she graduated with honors.

🏆Scholarships and Awards 

Throughout her career, Dr. Rotondi has received several scholarships and awards, highlighting her academic and research excellence: A Ph.D. scholarship from the Department of Planning, Design, and Technology of Architecture at Sapienza University. Several collaboration grants at Sapienza University and other institutions, which supported her research in digital fabrication, eco-sustainable materials, and rapid manufacturing.

💻Bioinformatics and Digital Fabrication 

Dr. Rotondi’s work in bioinformatics and digital fabrication is groundbreaking. She has developed protocols that merge biological sciences with design, particularly through bio-digital manufacturing. Her expertise in 3D printing, bioprinting, and the use of unconventional materials like ceramics and biomaterials has led to innovative contributions in design and sustainability.

🌐Professional Associations 

Dr. Rotondi is an active member of various professional associations and research groups. She has collaborated with institutes, research centers, and companies, enhancing her research’s impact and reach. She is also a founding member of the Youth Association Laboratorio 11, dedicated to scientific dissemination through art and design.

 📚Training & Workshops 

Dr. Rotondi has participated in and organized numerous training sessions and workshops, focusing on bio-digital fabrication, sustainable design, and the integration of biological elements into the design process. Her workshops often emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, combining insights from design, biology, and technology.

 🎤Oral Presentations and🗣️Thought Leadership 

Dr. Rotondi is a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences. She has delivered lectures on topics such as “Bio-digital fabrication in Fashion Design” and “Biomimetics. Innovation Inspired by Nature,” sharing her research findings and insights with a broader audience.

 🧑‍🔬Tasks Completed as a Researcher 

As a researcher, Dr. Rotondi has completed numerous tasks, including: The development of new bio-digital manufacturing protocols. Coordination of research projects focused on sustainable materials and design. Supervision of thesis projects at both the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels.

 🚀Success Factors 

Dr. Rotondi attributes her success to a combination of academic rigor, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a passion for sustainable design. Her ability to integrate complex scientific concepts into practical design applications has set her apart in the field.

 🧪Publications & Laboratory Experience

Dr. Rotondi’s publications are widely recognized for their contribution to sustainable design and bio-digital manufacturing. Her laboratory experience, particularly in digital fabrication and bioprinting, has enabled her to pioneer new methods and materials that push the boundaries of what is possible in design.

 📚Publications

Bio-digital ‘Material Systems’: New Hybrid Ways for Material-Driven Design Innovation

     Authors: Rotondi, C., Gironi, C., Ciufo, D., Diana, M., Lucibello, S.

Bio-digital ‘Material Systems’: New Hybrid Ways for Material-Driven Design Innovation

    Authors: Lucibello, S., Rotondi, C.

Resilience Envelopes: The “Fourth Environment” as a Source of Inspiration, a Place for Speculation and a Territory for Experimenting with New Models of Life

    Authors: Inglese, G., Lucibello, S., Rotondi, C.

   

How the informed relations between physical, digital and biological dimensions are changing the design practice, as well as the sustainability paradigm

    Authors: Rotondi, C.

The Biological Encoding of Design and The Premises for a New Generation of ‘Living’ Products: The Example of Sinapsi | La codificació biològica del disseny i premisses per a una nova generació de productes ‘vius’: l’exemple de Sinapsi

    Authors: Lucibello, S., Rotondi, C.

    Journal:Temes de Disseny