Derese Kebede Teklie | Renewable Energy | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Derese Kebede Teklie | Renewable Energy | Best Academic Researcher Award

Researcher | Istanbul Technical University | Ethiopia

Dr. Derese Kebede Teklie is an accomplished scholar in Development and Environmental Economics with a strong focus on the intersection of green economy, institutional quality, and sustainable development in Africa. Born on August 19, 1988, in Arsi, Ethiopia, he holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Istanbul Technical University, Turkey, under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mete Han Yağmur. He is also pursuing a second Ph.D. in Green Economy and Sustainability at Brescia University, Italy, expanding his expertise in environmental policy and sustainable growth. Dr. Teklie earned his M.Sc. in Development Economics from Debre Markos University, Ethiopia, and a B.A. in Economics from Mekelle University. His academic journey has been enhanced by international exposure through the Erasmus Exchange Program at Istanbul Kültür University, fostering global research collaboration and cross-cultural learning. Professionally, he serves as an Assistant Researcher at Istanbul Technical University, contributing to projects on Africa’s economic growth, environmental sustainability, and green innovation. Previously, he worked as a Lecturer at Rift Valley University, Ethiopia, and held key roles in NGO project coordination and government research institutes, demonstrating his versatility across academia, research, and community development. His research interests include environmental economics, green growth, renewable energy policy, institutional development, and econometric modeling. Dr. Teklie is skilled in advanced analytical tools such as STATA, SPSS, EViews, MATLAB, Python, and CGE modeling, reflecting his technical proficiency in empirical research. His publications in Sustainability and the International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy address pressing issues in Africa’s environmental and economic transformation. Recognized for his academic dedication and contributions to sustainable development, Dr. Teklie continues to advance impactful interdisciplinary research and international collaboration. Dr. Derese Kebede Teklie’s academic impact is reflected in his growing recognition with 19 citations, 3 documents, and an h-index of 2, highlighting his emerging influence in environmental and development economics research.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Teklie, D. K., & Yağmur, M. H. (2024). The Role of Green Innovation, Renewable Energy, and Institutional Quality in Promoting Green Growth: Evidence from African Countries. Sustainability, 16(14), 6166.

2. Teklie, D. K., & Yağmur, M. H. (2024). Effect of Economic Growth on CO₂ Emission in Africa: Do Financial Development and Globalization Matter? International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy, 14(1), 121–140.

3. Teklie, D. K., & Doğan, B. (2024). Analyzing the Dynamics: Asymmetric Effects of Economic Growth, Technological Innovation, and Renewable Energy on Carbon Emissions in Africa. International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy, 14(5), 509–519.

4. Teklie, D. K. (2021). Rural Household Poverty and Its Determining Factors: A Poverty Analysis Using Alternative Measurement Approaches. International Journal of Advanced Research.

Mehdi Safaei | Sustainable Energy | Renewable Energy Education Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehdi Safaei | Sustainable Energy | Renewable Energy Education Award

Assistant Professor | Istanbul Gelişim University | Turkey

Dr. Mehdi Safaei is an accomplished scholar with over 12 years of teaching and research experience in Industrial Engineering, specializing in supply chain management, logistics optimization, and sustainable supply networks. He earned his Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering (Logistics and Supply Network) from the University of Bremen, Germany in 2014, graduating with magna cum laude distinction and a perfect GPA, supported by the prestigious IGS scholarship. He also holds an M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Industrial Engineering from Sharif University of Technology, Iran, where he ranked first in the highly competitive national entrance examination. Professionally, Dr. Safaei has served as Assistant Professor at Istanbul Gelisim University since 2019, leading TÜBİTAK-funded projects, publishing extensively, and supervising more than 400 undergraduate and 30 graduate theses. His previous roles include Assistant Professor at Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Lecturer at the University of Tehran and Al-Zahra University, and Research Assistant at BIBA-LogDynamic, Germany, where he received three Best Paper Awards. His research interests include dynamic supply network design, green supply chain management, machine learning in logistics, crisis management, and Industry 4.0 integration. He is skilled in supply chain modeling, project management, risk analysis, and quantitative research, with advanced expertise in simulation, ERP systems, and statistical analysis. A dedicated mentor and collaborator, he has translated key logistics texts, authored two books, and published 40+ journal and conference papers in reputed outlets such as IEEE, Elsevier, and Scopus-indexed journals. His professional affiliations include INFORMS, CSCMP, EurOMA, IISE, and IAENG, reflecting his active engagement with the global research community. Dr. Safaei’s outstanding achievements have earned him honors such as “Magna Cum Laude” recognition, national top rankings, and multiple international awards. Dr. Safaei’s growing academic impact is reflected in 132 citations, 17 documents, and an h-index of 7, demonstrating his significant and sustained influence in the field of industrial engineering and sustainable supply chain management.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Alsharif, A. H., Salleh, N. Z. M., Baharun, R. B., & Safaei, M. (2020). Neuromarketing approach: An overview and future research directions. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology, 98(7), 915–925. Cited by 65

2. Safari, Y., Abdollahi, S. A., Mahmoudi, M., Safaei, M., Taghinia, F., & Pasha, P. (2023). Numerical study of heat transfer of wavy channel supercritical CO2 PCHE with various channel geometries. International Journal of Thermofluids, 18, 100330. Cited by 32

3. Mosier, W., Elhadary, T., Elhaty, I. A. M., & Safaei, M. (2020). Crisis management and the impact of pandemics on religious tourism. Dublin Institute of Technology Conference Proceedings. Cited by 30

4. Safaei, M. (2014). An integrated multi-objective model for allocating the limited sources in a multiple multi-stage lean supply chain. Economic Modelling, 37, 224–237. Cited by 26

5. Safaei, M., & Thoben, K. D. (2014). Measuring and evaluating of the network type impact on time uncertainty in the supply networks with three nodes. Measurement, 56, 121–127. Cited by 20

Marta Moldoveanu | Green Construction | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marta Moldoveanu | Green Construction | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Marta Ioana Moldoveanu is a multidisciplinary professional and researcher whose career spans civil engineering, geodesy, horticulture, and project management. She combines strong academic training with practical experience in construction, cost control, geodetic engineering, and teaching. Currently serving as a professor of civil engineering, she inspires young students while actively contributing to advanced research in sustainable construction materials and geotechnics. Her professional journey reflects both technical expertise and leadership skills, supported by international publications, conference presentations, and collaborative projects. Marta is also equipped with multiple certifications in project management, occupational health and safety, GDPR compliance, and construction site supervision, highlighting her commitment to both academic excellence and professional practice. With a balanced career that integrates research, education, and industry application, she stands out as a forward-looking academic who bridges science and practice. Her focus on sustainability and material innovation positions her as a promising leader in construction engineering research.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Marta Ioana Moldoveanu has built a strong academic foundation across several engineering disciplines, making her career truly multidisciplinary. She first pursued studies in horticultural engineering, where she gained expertise in design, landscape planning, and technical drawing. Expanding her technical scope, she completed studies in geodesy and cadastre, developing strong skills in land measurement, surveying, and geospatial analysis. She then deepened her specialization in civil engineering, focusing on construction of buildings, structural resistance, and geotechnics. Her commitment to continuous learning led her to complete master’s studies in green space design and maintenance, as well as in project management and real estate evaluation, which enhanced her knowledge of sustainability, urban development, and technical leadership. Currently, she is advancing her academic career as a doctoral candidate in construction engineering, with research centered on innovative building materials, structural optimization, and sustainable technologies. This diverse educational background supports her interdisciplinary approach to research and practice.

Experience

Marta Ioana Moldoveanu’s professional career is marked by a balance of academic teaching, engineering practice, and research involvement. She has experience as a civil engineer in cost control and project management within the construction sector, working on civil, industrial, and agricultural projects. Her background also includes geodetic engineering, where she contributed to land measurements, surveying, and cadastral studies, as well as roles in construction projects involving renewable energy infrastructures such as photovoltaic parks. Alongside industry roles, she has significant academic experience as a professor of civil engineering, where she has been committed to shaping future professionals by combining theoretical knowledge with applied engineering insights. Her administrative roles further highlight organizational and leadership abilities, while her participation in interdisciplinary research projects demonstrates her capacity to integrate practical engineering challenges with innovative research solutions. Through this blend of teaching, technical practice, and project leadership, Marta has built a versatile and impactful career.

Research Interest

Marta Ioana Moldoveanu’s research interests focus on sustainable construction, advanced building materials, and geotechnical engineering. She is particularly dedicated to developing and testing eco-friendly materials that can reduce the environmental footprint of the construction industry, such as mortars incorporating recycled components or natural additives. Her work also explores structural resistance, durability, and microstructural development of innovative materials, applying advanced techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance for analysis. Marta’s research extends to ecological and environmental studies, including the assessment of environmental risks in construction-affected regions, highlighting her multidisciplinary approach to engineering. She is deeply committed to integrating sustainability principles into practical construction solutions that enhance both performance and ecological responsibility. Her interests further include project evaluation, carbon footprint reduction in aggregates, and innovative construction technologies that align with circular economy practices. Through her research, Marta aims to bridge the gap between technical engineering advancements and sustainable environmental management.

Awards and Honors

Marta Ioana Moldoveanu has received recognition for her contributions to research and innovation through active participation in prestigious international conferences and academic platforms. Her papers have been presented at well-known interdisciplinary events where they attracted attention for their originality and relevance to sustainable construction and materials engineering. She has also contributed to conference proceedings and scientific journals indexed in international databases, reflecting both the quality and impact of her research. Marta has been part of collaborative projects that have earned visibility at innovation exhibitions and forums, further validating the practical value of her work in developing eco-efficient solutions for the construction industry. Alongside her research contributions, she has earned professional certifications and authorizations that attest to her competence in engineering practice, project management, and safety standards. These distinctions collectively highlight her academic excellence, professional credibility, and growing influence within the engineering and scientific community.

Research Skills

Marta Ioana Moldoveanu possesses a wide range of research skills that span experimental work, material analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. She is experienced in laboratory testing of innovative construction materials, including mortars and concretes with recycled or alternative components. Her skills include applying advanced techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance and microstructural analysis to assess material behavior, durability, and performance under various conditions. She is also proficient in environmental impact assessments, linking construction practices with ecological sustainability. Marta is skilled in project design, data interpretation, technical reporting, and scientific writing, with a proven ability to publish in international journals and present at academic conferences. Her capacity to work in diverse research teams, often in international contexts, reflects strong collaboration and communication abilities. Furthermore, her background in geodesy, civil engineering, and project management enhances her multidisciplinary approach, enabling her to connect theoretical innovation with practical engineering solutions.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Sustainable Investments in Construction: Cost–Benefit Analysis Between Rehabilitation and New Building in Romania
Authors: Tudor Panfil Toader; Marta-Ioana Moldoveanu; Daniela-Mihaiela Boca; Raluca Iștoan; Lidia Maria Lupan; Aurelia Bradu; Andreea Hegyi; Ana Boga
Year: 2025
Journal: Buildings (MDPI)

Title: Nuclear Magnetic Resonance in Tire Waste Mortars
Authors: Marta Ioana Moldoveanu; Daniela Lucia Manea; Elena Jumate; Raluca Iștoan; Radu Fechete; Tudor Panfil Toader
Year: 2025
Journal: Applied Sciences (MDPI)

Title: Study on the Optimization of Concrete Screeds in Zootechnical Farms
Authors: Marta Ioana Moldoveanu; Daniela Lucia Manea; Elena Jumate; Radu Fechete; Maria Loredana Țințișan; Adrian Cristian Siomin
Year: 2022
Journal: Scientific Papers – Series E: Land Reclamation, Earth Observation & Surveying, Environmental Engineering

Title: Archaeological Works in the Land of Lăpuș
Authors: Marta Ioana Moldoveanu; Paul Popa; Daniela Lucia Manea
Year: 2019
Journal: Journal of Ancient History and Archaeology

Conclusion

Marta Ioana Moldoveanu is an excellent candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With her multidisciplinary academic background, innovative doctoral research, and a strong record of international publications, she has already made impactful contributions to the fields of construction engineering and environmental sustainability. Her leadership in teaching and community engagement underscores her commitment to advancing both science and society. With continued focus on international collaboration and high-impact research dissemination, she is poised to become a leading researcher with long-lasting influence in sustainable engineering and beyond.

Maaz Ahmad | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Maaz Ahmad | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Tashkent State University of Economics, Uzbekistan

Maaz Ahmad is an accomplished researcher and academic specializing in regional economics, environmental sustainability, renewable energy economics, and global value chain dynamics. His work focuses on the interconnections between technological innovation, economic growth, and environmental policy, with a special emphasis on the Belt and Road Initiative and the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor. He has contributed extensively to policy-relevant research through publications in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and through invited talks at leading universities and think tanks. His academic contributions are complemented by active engagement in international collaborations, enabling cross-border exchange of knowledge and solutions. As a corresponding author on numerous studies, he has led multidisciplinary research teams addressing pressing issues in energy efficiency, climate change, and inclusive development. Maaz combines scholarly depth with a commitment to practical application, making his work highly relevant to both academia and policymakers. His career trajectory reflects a strong balance between research excellence, teaching, and public engagement.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Education

Maaz Ahmad holds a Ph.D. in Regional Economics from Wuhan University, where his doctoral research explored the impact of global value chain participation on manufacturing structures within the Belt and Road Initiative context. His master’s degree in Economics from Islamia College University, Peshawar, examined the Ehrlich–Commoner environmental impact framework in Pakistan, reflecting his early interest in environmental economics. He completed his bachelor’s degree in Economics from the International Islamic University Islamabad, acquiring a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis. This academic journey equipped him with expertise in economic modeling, sustainability assessment, and global trade analysis. His educational background blends a deep understanding of theoretical frameworks with applied research skills. Through advanced training and a strong publication record, he has developed the analytical capacity to address complex economic-environmental interactions, positioning him as a scholar capable of contributing meaningfully to both national and international research agendas.

Experience

Maaz Ahmad’s professional experience spans teaching, research, and policy engagement. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the Tashkent State University of Economics, where he teaches research methods and skills to master’s students. His prior experience includes lecturing in macroeconomics, international economics, and public finance at the Government Degree College Hayatabad and the Post-Graduate Government Degree College Dargai. He has also worked as an independent researcher at the Tashkent State University of Economics, engaging in international research collaborations and contributing to policy-relevant studies. Beyond academia, Maaz has been a sought-after panelist and invited speaker at major conferences and universities, delivering talks on CPEC 2.0, industrialization, and regional integration. His career reflects a combination of rigorous academic teaching, impactful research leadership, and active involvement in public discourse, demonstrating his ability to bridge theoretical research with real-world economic and sustainability challenges at both regional and global levels.

Research Interest

Maaz Ahmad’s research interests lie at the intersection of economics, sustainability, and technological innovation. He focuses on regional economic integration, renewable energy economics, green innovation, energy efficiency, and the environmental implications of industrial development. His work often explores the policy and economic impacts of initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor. He is particularly interested in how technological advancements, renewable energy adoption, and governance structures influence sustainable growth and environmental quality. Maaz’s research also extends to studying the dynamics of global value chains, climate change mitigation strategies, and inclusive economic development. By integrating quantitative economic modeling with policy-oriented analysis, he addresses complex challenges faced by both developed and developing nations. His interdisciplinary approach combines environmental science, economic theory, and international trade analysis, allowing him to contribute to the global discourse on sustainable development, low-carbon transitions, and equitable economic transformation.

Awards and Honors

Maaz Ahmad has been recognized for his scholarly excellence and contributions to sustainability and regional economic policy through various academic and professional honors. His selection as an invited panelist and guest speaker at prominent universities and policy institutions reflects his standing as a thought leader in his field. These speaking engagements, focusing on topics such as CPEC 2.0, renewable energy, and industrial development, highlight his expertise and the trust placed in him by academic and policy communities. He has received acknowledgment for his role as a corresponding author in numerous high-impact publications, demonstrating leadership in collaborative research projects. His professional engagements have provided platforms to influence both scholarly discourse and policymaking. Through his active participation in academic dialogues, Maaz has built a reputation for delivering insightful, evidence-based perspectives that advance both research and practice in sustainable economic development and environmental policy formulation.

Research Skills

Maaz Ahmad possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that enable him to conduct rigorous and impactful studies. His expertise includes econometric modeling, data analysis, policy evaluation, and sustainability assessment. Proficient in quantitative and qualitative methodologies, he applies advanced statistical tools to analyze relationships between economic growth, environmental sustainability, and technological innovation. His skills extend to drafting and managing collaborative research projects, often serving as the lead or corresponding author. Maaz has a strong background in academic writing, ensuring his research meets the standards of high-impact, peer-reviewed journals. He is adept at synthesizing complex datasets from international sources, conducting comparative cross-country studies, and integrating findings into actionable policy recommendations. Additionally, his teaching experience has strengthened his ability to communicate complex concepts effectively, fostering capacity building among students and junior researchers. His research capabilities are complemented by a global network of collaborators, enhancing the scope and influence of his academic contributions.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Energy efficiency, technological innovation, and financial development-based EKC premise: Fresh asymmetric insights from developing Asian regions
Authors: Maaz Ahmad, Muhammad Eid Balbaa, Aziz Zikriyoev, Fazliddin Nasriddinov, Zebo Kuldasheva
Year: 2024

Title: Renewable energy consumption towards environmental sustainability: Evidence of EKC hypothesis in the framework of economic growth and CO₂ emissions
Authors: Maaz Ahmad
Year: 2022

Title: Is achieving environmental sustainability dependent on information communication technology and globalization? Evidence from selected OECD countries
Authors: Maaz Ahmad, Zebo Kuldasheva, Fazliddin Nasriddinov, Muhammad Eid Balbaa, Muhammad Fahlevi
Year: 2023

Title: The impact of trade, environmental degradation and governance on renewable energy consumption: Evidence from selected ASEAN countries
Authors: Yongming Huang, Maaz Ahmad, Sher Ali
Year: 2022

Title: Does eco-innovation promote cleaner energy? Analyzing the role of energy price and human capital
Authors: Yongming Huang, Maaz Ahmad, Sher Ali, Dervis Kirikkaleli
Year: 2022

Conclusion

Dr. Maaz Ahmad’s career demonstrates a rare blend of rigorous academic research, impactful international collaborations, and policy-oriented engagement. His substantial contributions to renewable energy economics, environmental policy, and regional economic integration directly address some of the most pressing global challenges. With a proven track record of high-quality research, leadership in collaborative projects, and dedication to societal progress, he is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His continued focus on sustainability, innovation, and policy-relevant research ensures that his future work will further advance both academic knowledge and practical solutions for economic and environmental development.