Saul Nurick | Sustainability Strategies | Best Paper Award

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 👤

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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 💼

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 📚

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

ZHONG ZHENG | Supply Chain Management | Best Researcher Award

Mr. ZHONG ZHENG | Supply Chain Management | Best Researcher Award

Mr. ZHONG ZHENG, Nanning university, China

Professor Zheng Zhong is a forward-thinking academic and researcher from Guiping City, Guangxi, China. He currently serves as Assistant Dean of the School of Business at Nanning University and Director of the China–ASEAN (Logistics) Research Institute. A committed member of the Communist Party of China, he began his academic career in 2015 and holds a vice professorship. Prof. Zheng is a recognized expert in regional economics, modern logistics, and supply chain management. With his interdisciplinary academic and industry background, he has led numerous provincial and ministerial projects, collaborated with government and enterprises, and contributed extensively to academic literature. In addition to authoring 21 papers, 2 patents, and 3 books, he remains active in shaping China’s logistics infrastructure and educational reform. 📚✈️

🔹Profile 🧾

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🔹 Education 🎓

Professor Zheng Zhong has a rich academic foundation in industrial engineering and business management. He began his educational journey at Three Gorges University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering in 2012. He then completed his master’s degree in the same field from Chongqing University in 2015, where he was honored as an Excellent Postgraduate. In 2020, he began doctoral studies in Business Administration at King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang in Thailand under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Nuttawut. His academic path reflects a seamless blend of engineering principles and business management, which has empowered his multidisciplinary research and teaching excellence. 🎓📘

🔹 Experience 🏢

With a solid academic and industry portfolio, Professor Zheng Zhong currently serves as Assistant Dean of the School of Business at Nanning University. He also directs the China–ASEAN (Logistics) Research Institute and acts as a Distinguished Expert for the Guangxi Comprehensive Transportation Big Data Research Institute and the Guangxi Xijiang Group Carbon Neutrality Research Center. His previous role at Guangxi Xijiang Development Investment Group Ltd. provided him with real-world exposure to supply chain systems. Prof. Zheng has led and contributed to over 100 research projects at different governmental levels and collaborated with large-scale enterprises. His combined theoretical knowledge and practical insight position him as a bridge between academia and the logistics industry. 💼🚚

🔹 Research Interests 🔬

Professor Zheng’s research interests include regional economic development, modern logistics systems, and supply chain management—particularly in the context of China’s collaboration with ASEAN countries. He explores how logistics can evolve under digital transformation, carbon neutrality policies, and international trade frameworks such as RCEP. His work is deeply rooted in practical application, focusing on blockchain-based logistics systems, city joint delivery models, and sustainable supply chain strategies. Through his research, Prof. Zheng seeks to enhance policy design, educational reforms, and smart logistics solutions tailored for China’s unique socioeconomic landscape. 🌏📦

🔹 Awards & Honors 🏅

Professor Zheng Zhong has received multiple awards that highlight both his academic and teaching excellence. In 2014, he was honored as an Excellent Postgraduate by Chongqing University. He won First Prize in the 17th Guangxi Higher Education Information Teaching Competition in 2018 and later earned a Third Prize in its 21st edition in 2022. These accolades reflect his dedication to teaching innovation and education digitalization. In addition, he has been recognized as a key contributor in educational reform, interdisciplinary research, and logistics innovation—affirming his role as a respected scholar and thought leader. 🏆📖

🔹 Publications Top Notes

Research on Guangxi Commercial Logistics Development Strategy Based on “Chongqing-Guangxi-Xinjiang” Channel

Blockchain in Logistics: Trustworthy School Food Traceability System

Supply Chain Integration for Carbon Neutrality in Guangxi Industries

Digital Twin Logistics and the ASEAN Trade Model

The RCEP Agreement’s Influence on Applied Higher Education in Guangxi

Soumya Bhowmick | Sustainable Businesses | Best Researcher Award

Mr . Soumya Bhowmick - Sustainable Businesses - Best Researcher Award

Observer Research Foundation | India

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

He embarked on his academic journey with a keen interest in economics, globalization, and sustainable development. He pursued a Bachelor's degree in Economics Honors from Jadavpur University, Kolkata, where he delved into various aspects of economic theory and analysis. During his undergraduate years, he also participated in internships and volunteer activities that enriched his understanding of real-world economic challenges. His academic pursuits continued with a Master's degree in Economics Honors, where he explored topics such as market research and cultural economics. his commitment to academic excellence earned him prestigious fellowships and scholarships, including the Ryoichi Sasakawa Young Leaders Fellowship Fund and the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees Scholarship.

Professional Endeavors

Building upon his academic foundation, Soumya ventured into the professional world with a focus on research and sustainable development. He joined the Observer Research Foundation in Kolkata as an Associate Fellow, where he specialized in sustainable development and globalization economics. Soumya's role at ORF involved extensive research and analysis, contributing valuable insights to policy discussions and academic debates. Additionally, he pursued further academic enrichment as a doctoral candidate in Sustainable Development at the School of Management, BML Munjal University, Gurugram. his multidisciplinary approach to research and his expertise in sustainable development garnered recognition both nationally and internationally.

 

Contributions and Research Focus in Sustainable Businesses

Throughout his academic and professional journey, Soumya has demonstrated a deep commitment to addressing complex socio-economic challenges. His research focus spans areas such as sustainable development, global governance, and inclusive prosperity. he has actively contributed to academic conferences and seminars, presenting papers on topics ranging from climate change to economic integration. He has also engaged in collaborative projects aimed at driving businesses towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting inclusive growth strategies. his innovative research methodologies and interdisciplinary approach have led to significant contributions in his field.

Accolades and Recognition

His contributions to academia and sustainable development have been widely recognized, earning him accolades and invitations to prestigious events. He has been invited as a speaker and delegate to international conferences, including the World Youth Festival and the BRICS Think Tank International Symposium. Soumya's research papers have been presented at renowned institutions and conferences, highlighting his expertise and influence in the field of economics and sustainable development. His dedication to advancing knowledge and promoting sustainable practices has earned him respect and admiration from peers and scholars alike.

Impact and Influence

His work has had a tangible impact on policy formulation and academic discourse, both at the national and international levels. His research on sustainable development goals, climate change, and global governance has informed decision-making processes and contributed to the development of pragmatic solutions to pressing global challenges. his insights and recommendations have been instrumental in shaping policies and initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity. His interdisciplinary approach and collaborative efforts have facilitated meaningful dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As he continues his academic and professional journey, his legacy is marked by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. His groundbreaking research and advocacy for sustainable development have laid the foundation for future generations of scholars and practitioners. Soumya's vision for the future encompasses a world where economic prosperity is harmonized with environmental stewardship and social justice. Through his continued efforts in academia, research, and advocacy, Soumya aims to contribute towards building a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable global community.

Citations

Citations   138

h-index      6

i10-index   2

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