Adeola Adejayan | Financial Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Adeola Adejayan | Financial Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Adeola Adejayan, EKITI STATE UNIVERSITY, Nigeria

Dr. Adejayan Adeola Oluwakemi is a distinguished Lecturer I in the Department of Finance at Ekiti State University, Nigeria, with over a decade of academic prowess. She earned her Ph.D. in Finance, complemented by First‑Class honours in Banking and Finance. A proud member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Dr. Oluwakemi excels in teaching corporate finance, financial markets, and risk management. Currently, she is enriching her expertise as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, where her focus lies in green finance and sustainable financial practices. Her dedication to academia is reflected in her supervision of numerous undergraduate projects and consistent publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.

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Education 🎓

Dr. Oluwakemi holds a Ph.D. in Finance with insightful research in corporate and sustainable finance. She graduated with First‑Class honours in her undergraduate and postgraduate Banking and Finance degrees. Her commitment to continuous learning is demonstrated through advanced coursework and professional certifications, especially as part of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. Furthering her scholarly journey, she is currently pursuing postdoctoral work at the University of KwaZulu‑Natal in South Africa. There, she deepens her knowledge in green financial systems and sustainability, reflecting a lifelong pursuit of academic excellence and a strong foundation in both theory and application.

Experience 💼

With over ten years of teaching experience, Dr. Oluwakemi has held the position of Lecturer I at Ekiti State University, Nigeria. She has delivered courses in corporate finance, financial markets, and risk management, mentoring a substantial number of undergraduate students. Additionally, she serves as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, where she engages in research on green finance and sustainable financial practices. Beyond academia, she has collaborated on consultancy and industry-focused projects, leveraging her expertise in banking, finance, and policy impact. Her academic and professional journey shines through in transparent supervision, impactful mentorship, and meaningful cross-border collaborations.

Research Interest 🔍

Dr. Oluwakemi focuses her research on international finance, financial sector development, and sustainability finance. As a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of KwaZulu‑Natal, she investigates green finance, environmental accounting, and sustainable financial systems. Her collaborations span Nigeria and South Africa, exploring areas like financial inclusion, macroeconomic stability, and capital market development. She integrates empirical research with interdisciplinary approaches to tackle pressing challenges in emerging economies. Her recent work includes examining exchange rate dynamics, corporate capital structure, and risk management, always with a focus on actionable insights for policy, sustainability, and institutional development.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Oluwakemi’s scholarly work has earned recognition through multiple research grants and academic accolades. With over 58 citations, an h‑index of 3, and an i10‑index of 3, she has established a notable academic footprint. Her award preferences include the ‘Best Researcher Award’, reflecting her dedication to producing novel and impactful research. She has been acknowledged for contributions in green finance and sustainable investment practices, demonstrating excellence in both teaching and research. Her professional memberships, such as with the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, further attest to her commitment to quality and professional integrity in the field of finance.

Publication Top Notes 📚

Strategic marketing innovation and bank performance in Nigeria

PULL AND PUSH FACTORS AS DETERMINANT OF FOREIGN PORTFOLIO INVESTMENT IN THE EMERGING MARKET.

Impact of foreign private investment on the development of Nigerian capital market

Determinants of Financial Stability of Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria

CAPITAL MARKET DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH OF WEST AFRICAN COUNTRIES.

Risk management and profitability of quoted banks in Nigeria

Sensitivity of macroeconomic variables to exchange rate shock in Nigeria and South Africa: A structural vector auto regression approach

investigating the factors influencing commercial Bank lending in Nigeria

Does External Debt Cause Growth? A Comparative Study Of Nigerian And South African Economies

Nigerian Journal of Banking and Financial Issues

Massimo Contrafatto | Accounting And Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Massimo Contrafatto  –  Accounting And Sustainability – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Contrafatto’s long-standing scholarly dedication, his leadership in internationally funded and collaborative research initiatives, and his sustained contribution to advancing sustainability and ethical accounting practices strongly align with the criteria for the Best Researcher Award. His interdisciplinary methods, commitment to social impact, and record of scholarly excellence position him as a leading figure in sustainability accounting

University of Sussex | United Kingdom

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Dr. Massimo Contrafatto began his academic journey with distinction, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy, in July 2001 with a perfect score of 110/110. His dedication to excellence in business management and accounting was evident early on. This commitment led him to pursue a PhD in Social and Environmental Accounting and Reporting at the same university. During his doctoral studies, he spent an intensive 21 months as a visiting PhD researcher at Glasgow University, engaging deeply with the Department of Accounting and Finance and the Centre for Social and Environmental Accounting Research (CSEAR). Mentored by renowned academics such as Prof. R. Gray and Prof. K. McPhail, Dr. Contrafatto focused on understanding corporate motivations behind social and environmental reporting—an area that would shape his lifelong research agenda.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Dr. Contrafatto’s professional academic career began as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Bergamo and the University of St. Andrews. He collaborated with eminent scholars like Prof. Jan Bebbington and Prof. John Burns to explore sustainability reporting within social enterprises. His early academic positions included Assistant Professor and later Associate Professor at the University of Bergamo, where he taught a wide range of accounting and sustainability courses. From 2016 to 2021, he held a tenured position as Associate Professor in Accounting and Accountability. In January 2022, Dr. Contrafatto was appointed Reader in Accounting for Sustainability at the University of Sussex Business School. He also serves as Director of the PhD Programme in Accounting and Finance and as the Convenor of the Research Mobilizing Group in “Sustainability, Accounting, Finance and Economics” (SAFE RMG). Additionally, he maintains honorary affiliations with the University of Dundee and has held teaching roles at Strathclyde and St. Andrews Universities.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Accounting And Sustainability

A leading figure in sustainability accounting, Dr. Contrafatto has made significant contributions to the field of social and environmental accounting. His research encompasses sustainability transformation, decision-making, strategic management accounting, and the institutionalization of sustainability reporting. His interdisciplinary projects unite researchers across Europe, including those at the University Autonoma of Madrid, University of Urbino, Queen’s University Belfast, and University of Sussex. His ongoing projects—such as “Identities, Accounting and Decision-Making for Sustainable Transformation” and “Accounting and Accountability for COVID”—demonstrate his commitment to addressing real-world issues through accounting research. His work is often characterized by a qualitative approach and an emphasis on accountability, ethics, and corporate transparency.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Contrafatto’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He received the prestigious AIDEA Award for an outstanding research article in 2014 from the Italian Management, Accounting, and Finance Academic Association. His work continues to influence both academia and industry, and he regularly acts as a PhD examiner in Italy and the UK. His national academic qualification for full professorship in Italy further underscores his academic standing.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Over the years, Dr. Contrafatto has shaped the academic landscape of sustainability accounting and business ethics. Through his roles as lecturer, supervisor, mentor, and programme director, he has inspired a new generation of researchers and practitioners. His modules—ranging from “Contemporary Issues in Accounting” to “International Corporate Reporting” and “Advanced Qualitative Research Methods”—have empowered students to critically engage with pressing issues in accounting and sustainability. Moreover, his participation in international research projects and his leadership in organizing academic events, such as the 2023 Research Capacity Building Workshop at the University of Sussex, have contributed to the global academic community’s growth and cohesion.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Dr. Contrafatto’s legacy lies in his unwavering pursuit of socially responsible accounting practices. He has helped bridge the gap between theory and practice, emphasizing sustainability transformation and ethical governance in corporate environments. His mentorship of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers ensures that his academic values will continue to thrive. Looking ahead, Dr. Contrafatto aims to deepen his engagement with sustainability transformation in accounting, potentially influencing public policy and business practices on a broader scale. His multidisciplinary research and collaborative spirit are expected to yield further impactful work in both academic and societal contexts.

Conclusion

Dr. Massimo Contrafatto stands as a pioneer in the field of accounting for sustainability. His early academic excellence, expansive professional endeavors, and groundbreaking research reflect a profound commitment to ethical, transparent, and socially responsible accounting. As a teacher, mentor, and scholar, his influence spans continents and academic generations. With ongoing projects focused on sustainability and identity in decision-making, Dr. Contrafatto is well-positioned to continue shaping the future of strategic management, accounting, and corporate governance for years to come.

📚Publications

Audit society, organisational response and (de-)coupling

 Authors: Contrafatto, Massimo, S., Moggi, Sara, D., Gervasio, Daniele, D., Montani, Damiano

Journals: An Italian story

The (non)enactment of intelligent accountability through stakeholder engagement

Authors: Bianchi, Lara, E.E., Passetti, Emilio Emilio, M., Contrafatto, Massimo

Journals: A micro-processual perspective

 

 

Ahmad ali | Sustainability management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ahmad ali  – Sustainability management – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Ali’s extensive research, academic contributions, and industry experience make him a strong candidate for academic and research excellence awards. His AACSB accreditation status, coupled with his high-impact publications and role in institutional development, aligns well with prestigious academic accolades recognizing contributions to digital supply chain management and business education.

Business Faculty, Middle East University | Jordan

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Ahmad Ali Atieh Ali embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in business administration. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Al-Ahliyya Amman University in 2017, setting the stage for his future endeavors in academia and research. Recognizing the importance of advanced education, he pursued a Master’s degree in Business Administration at Amman Arab University, which he completed in 2019. His academic trajectory was further solidified when he enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Supply Chain Management at Utara University Malaysia, where he is expected to complete his doctorate in 2024. This progression reflects his commitment to mastering the intricacies of supply chain dynamics and digital transformation within business frameworks.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Ahmad Ali Atieh Ali’s professional career is a blend of academic, administrative, and industry experiences. He began as a lecturer at Luminus University College during the 2023/2024 academic year, imparting knowledge and research insights to students in the field of digital supply chain management. Simultaneously, he held an administrative role as an Assistant Operations Manager at Good System Company for Import and Export between 2022 and 2023. His dual engagement in academia and industry showcases his ability to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, providing a comprehensive learning experience for his students.

 

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Sustainability management

Dr. Ali has made significant contributions to the field of digital supply chain management, focusing on areas such as artificial intelligence, supply chain resilience, and digital transformation. His research spans critical themes like the impact of AI on supply chain performance, the role of digital supply chains in inventory management, and the integration of artificial intelligence in supply chain collaboration. His work is widely recognized, as evidenced by his publications in reputable journals like Sustainability and Uncertain Supply Chain Management. With an h-index of 8 on Google Scholar and multiple Scopus-indexed publications, Dr. Ali has established himself as an influential researcher in his domain.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Ali has made significant contributions to the field of digital supply chain management, focusing on areas such as artificial intelligence, supply chain resilience, and digital transformation. His research spans critical themes like the impact of AI on supply chain performance, the role of digital supply chains in inventory management, and the integration of artificial intelligence in supply chain collaboration. His work is widely recognized, as evidenced by his publications in reputable journals like Sustainability and Uncertain Supply Chain Management. With an h-index of 8 on Google Scholar and multiple Scopus-indexed publications, Dr. Ali has established himself as an influential researcher in his domain.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Dr. Ali’s impact extends beyond research publications. As an assistant professor at the Faculty of Business, Middle East University, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of business professionals and supply chain experts. His engagement with AACSB-accredited institutions demonstrates his commitment to maintaining high academic standards and aligning with global educational benchmarks. Furthermore, his involvement in professional training and internship committees helps bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements, ensuring that students are well-equipped for real-world challenges.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

With a strong academic background, extensive research contributions, and significant teaching experience, Dr. Ali is poised to leave a lasting impact on the field of supply chain management. His ongoing Ph.D. research is expected to yield further insights into digital supply chains and AI integration, potentially influencing industry practices and policy-making. Looking ahead, he aims to expand his research collaborations, contribute to international conferences, and mentor aspiring researchers in the field.

 

Conclusion

Ahmad Ali Atieh Ali exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated academic and researcher. His journey from a bachelor’s student to an assistant professor and Ph.D. candidate highlights his relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence. Through his research on digital supply chains, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, he continues to influence both academia and industry. His contributions not only advance scholarly discourse but also equip future professionals with the skills needed to navigate the evolving landscape of supply chain management.

📚Publications

The Impact of Adaptive Learning Technologies, Personalized Feedback, and Interactive AI Tools on Student Engagement: The Moderating Role of Digital Literacy

Authors:  Husam Yaseen; Abdelaziz Saleh Mohammad; Najwa Ashal; Hesham Abusaimeh; Ahmad Ali; Abdel-Aziz Ahmad Sharabati

Journals: Sustainability

The Impact of Digital Technology, Automation, and Data Integration on Supply Chain Performance: Exploring the Moderating Role of Digital Transformation

Authors: Ahmad Ali Atieh; Alhareth Abu Hussein; Saheer Al-Jaghoub; Ahmad Fathi Alheet; Murad Attiany

Journals: Logistics

The Impact of Digital Marketing on the Performance of SMEs: An Analytical Study in Light of Modern Digital Transformations

Authors: Abdel-Aziz Ahmad Sharabati; Ahmad Ali Atieh Ali; Mahmoud Izzat Allahham; Alhareth Abu Hussein; Ahmad Fathi Alheet; Abdelaziz Saleh Mohammad

Journals: Sustainability

Chuangwei Liu | Sustainable development | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Chuangwei Liu  – Sustainable development  –  Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Chuangwei Liu’s groundbreaking research in sustainable catalysis, computational materials science, and machine learning-based modeling aligns perfectly with awards recognizing excellence in Sustainable Development, Computational Chemistry, and Advanced Materials Research. His innovative approach contributes directly to green energy solutions, carbon reduction, and industrial efficiency, making him a prime candidate for such accolades.

 

Chinese Academy of Sciences | China

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Chuangwei Liu’s academic journey began at Northeastern University, China, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical Engineering (2008–2012). His undergraduate studies laid a strong foundation in materials science, thermodynamics, and process engineering, igniting his passion for advanced materials research.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Dr. Liu’s career has spanned multiple countries and industries, reflecting his versatility and global impact. Mechanical Engineer, Helios Oil and Gas Equipment, Houston, USA (2014–2016): Before his Ph.D., he worked on advanced mechanical systems, gaining hands-on experience in industrial applications of materials science. Postdoctoral Fellow, Technical University of Denmark (2019–2022): He further refined his expertise in computational materials science, focusing on catalyst design and sustainable energy applications. Associate Professor, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China (2022–2023): Returning to China, he took on a faculty role, mentoring students and leading cutting-edge research in computational chemistry. Professor, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China (2023–Present): Currently, he is a full professor at one of China’s premier research institutions, where he continues to push the boundaries of catalyst design and materials theory.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Sustainable development

Dr. Liu’s research centers on multi-scale quantum mechanics simulations to understand reaction mechanisms at an atomic level and rationally design advanced materials for industrial catalysts. His key contributions include: Development of materials theory for designing new catalysts, which has led to improved industrial processes and energy-efficient solutions. Accelerated discovery of novel materials through computational modeling, bridging theory and real-world applications. Computational method development using machine learning, enabling predictive modeling for materials science.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Liu’s work has been widely recognized through prestigious awards: JACS Young Investigators 2020 by the Journal of The American Chemical Society – A prestigious recognition of outstanding contributions to chemistry. Most Popular Article in 2019 for Journal of Materials Chemistry A, awarded by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Postgraduate Publications Award (PPA), Monash University (2019) – Recognizing his groundbreaking Ph.D. research.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

As a researcher and educator, Dr. Liu has significantly influenced both academia and industry: Teaching & Mentorship: He has guided numerous undergraduate and graduate students, teaching courses in Physical Chemistry and Computational Materials Science at Northeastern University. Research Leadership: As the Principal Investigator (PI) of major research projects, he has secured substantial funding, including:

    • China’s National Key R&D Programme (2024–2026): A$ 680,000
    • Start-up Funding of Northeastern University (2023–2025): A$ 170,000
    • Fundamental Research Funds for Central Universities (2023–2024): A$ 21,000

 

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Dr. Liu’s pioneering research is set to leave a lasting impact in the fields of sustainable materials science and computational chemistry. His future contributions are expected to: Advance machine learning-driven catalyst design, optimizing reaction pathways for cleaner energy production. Enhance global collaboration, bringing together researchers from China, Europe, and the U.S. Train the next generation of scientists, ensuring continuity in cutting-edge materials research.

Conclusion

Dr. Chuangwei Liu exemplifies the fusion of academic excellence, scientific innovation, and industrial impact. With a distinguished career spanning multiple disciplines and institutions, his research in computational chemistry and sustainable catalysis continues to shape the future of energy and materials science. As a professor, mentor, and thought leader, he remains dedicated to advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and contributing to a more sustainable world.

📚Publications

2D, Metal‐Free Electrocatalysts for the Nitrogen Reduction Reaction

Authors:  Chuangwei Liu; Ang Tian; Qinye Li; Tianyi Wang; Gaowu Qin; Song Li; Chenghua Sun

Journals: Advanced Functional Materials

Knowledge‐Driven Design and Lab‐Based Evaluation of B‐doped TiO2 Photocatalysts for Ammonia Synthesis

Authors: Chuangwei Liu; Derek Hao; Jin Ye; Sheng Ye; Fengling Zhou; Hongbo Xie; Gaowu Qin; Jiating Xu; Jian Liu; Song Li et al.

Journals: Advanced Energy Materials

Bulk-immiscible CuAg alloy nanorods prepared by phase transition from oxides for electrochemical CO2 reduction

Authors:  Yihong Yu; Di Wang; Yimeng Hong; Teng Zhang; Chuangwei Liu; Jing Chen; Gaowu Qin; Song Li

Journals: Chemical Communications

Oxygen-regulated carbon quantum dots as an efficient metal-free electrocatalyst for nitrogen reduction

Authors:  Yaqian Han; Xiaoteng Ding; Jingrui Han; Yanfeng Fang; Zhaoyong Jin; Wenhan Kong; Chuangwei Liu

Journals: Nanoscale

Ali Raza | Finance | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ali Raza | Finance | Best Researcher Award

Near East University, Cyprus

Professional Profiles:

Google Scholar Profile

Scopus Profile

Orcid Profile

Researchgate Profile

Linkedin Profile

Early Academic Pursuits:

Aliraza has pursued a highly commendable academic journey, culminating in his current pursuit of a Ph.D. in Banking and Finance from Near East University, Cyprus, with an impressive CGPA of 3.79/4.00. His academic achievements include a Silver Medal in MBA (Hons.) and securing the first position in MBA (Hons.) and the second position in BBA (Hons.) at the University of Sindh Jamshoro. Notably, he has achieved a 100% scholarship for his Ph.D. program, showcasing his academic prowess.

Professional Endeavors:

His professional experience is diverse and enriching. He has served as a Tutor in Mericler European Training Centre Pearson BTEC Projects in Istanbul, worked as an Accountant in GIFA HOLDINGS in North Cyprus, and contributed as an Enumerator for the International Organization for Migration. His teaching roles include being a Business Studies Teacher in Gokkusagi Koleji Cambridge Schools, Istanbul, and Visiting Faculty at KBSAS University of Sindh Jamshoro. Furthermore, he has worked as a Teaching Assistant at the Institute of Business Administration, University of Sindh.

Contributions and Research Focus:

His research contributions are substantial, with numerous published articles and book chapters. His research spans diverse topics such as working capital's impact on profitability in Turkish banking, intrapreneurship tendencies and social innovation in organizations, and the transition of the Scandinavian economy to a sustainable environment. These publications showcase a wide array of interests, from economic analyses to environmental sustainability.

Accolades and Recognition:

His academic achievements are underscored by accolades such as achieving a Silver Medal in MBA (Hons.) and securing top positions in both MBA and BBA programs. Notably, he has secured a 100% scholarship for his Ph.D. program, a testament to his exceptional academic standing.

Impact and Influence:

His role as an educator, with subjects ranging from Investment and Portfolio Management to Organizational Behaviour, highlights his commitment to knowledge dissemination. As an editor of the book "Women’s Studies in Social Science I" in Ozgur Publishers Turkey, he has contributed to academic literature and perspectives.

Legacy and Future Contributions:

His legacy is marked by his extensive teaching experience, diverse research contributions, and a commitment to societal development. His future contributions are anticipated to further enrich the fields of banking, finance, and social sciences. His work reflects a holistic approach, combining academic rigor with a keen interest in societal well-being.

Notable Publications:

Evaluating the Scandinavian economy's transition to a sustainable environment. Fresh evidence from newly developed CS-ARDL approach
Raza, A., Ali, M., Tursoy, T., Seraj, M., Habeeb, Y.O.

The effect of transformational leadership on restaurant employees on trust, altruistic intention and organizational commitment: the moderation effect of surface acting
Kement, Ü., Zeybek, B., Soylu, S., Erkol Bayram, G., Raza, A.

Tourism social entrepreneurship and roles in activating SDGs
Raza, A., Asif, L., Shaikh, E., Alhanhanah, W.M.

Do banking sector development, economic growth, and clean energy consumption scale up green finance investment for a sustainable environment in South Asia: evidence for newly developed RALS co-integration
Ali, M., Seraj, M., Türüç, F., Tursoy, T., Raza, A.
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How does the green entrepreneurship process of students undergoing tourism education proceed? Implementation of the policy acceptance model
Kement, Ü., Zeybek, B., Eter, E., ...Raza, A., Valeri, M.

Macro-economic indicators and housing price index in Spain: fresh evidence from FMOLS and DOLS
Raza, A., Asif, L., Türsoy, T., Seraj, M., Erkol Bayram, G.
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