Amon Exavery | Social Sciences | Research for Community Impact Award

Dr. Amon Exavery | Social Sciences | Research for Community Impact Award

University of Dodoma | Tanzania

Dr. Amon Exavery is a distinguished statistician and epidemiologist whose research integrates advanced statistical modeling with population health studies to address pressing public health challenges in Tanzania and sub-Saharan Africa. His scholarly contributions span topics such as child and maternal health, HIV/AIDS prevention, household food security, and socioeconomic determinants of well-being. Through the application of multivariate and multilevel statistical methods, he has provided evidence-based insights into issues like early childbearing, breastfeeding practices, and healthcare access. His notable publications in leading international journals, including PLOS ONE, AIDS Research and Therapy, and the International Breastfeeding Journal, highlight his methodological rigor and commitment to data-driven policy solutions. Dr. Exavery’s recent work focuses on mixed-effects ordinal logistic regression and difference-in-differences estimators to evaluate community interventions, such as the WORTH Yetu program, aimed at improving household resilience and caregiver welfare. His interdisciplinary approach bridges statistical innovation and field epidemiology, contributing significantly to the understanding of health disparities, reproductive behavior, and social determinants of disease outcomes. Through his extensive research and evidence-based analyses, Dr. Exavery continues to advance the role of biostatistics and epidemiology in promoting equitable, sustainable health interventions across developing regions.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Exavery, A., Kirigiti, P. J., Balan, R. T., & Charles, J. (2026, February). Enhancing longitudinal impact evaluation of non-experimental interventions: A comparative analysis of generalized estimating equations and multilevel models based on empirical evaluation of temporal change in food security following an economic empowerment intervention. Evaluation and Program Planning.

Exavery, A., Kirigiti, P. J., Balan, R. T., & Charles, J. (2025). Determinants of participation in WORTH Yetu economic empowerment intervention among caregivers of orphaned and vulnerable children in Tanzania: A longitudinal multivariable logistic regression analysis. Social Sciences & Humanities Open.

Exavery, A., Kirigiti, P. J., Balan, R. T., & Charles, J. (2024, August). Longitudinal evaluation of the influence of WORTH Yetu on household economic status based on the count of non-asset resources for orphaned and vulnerable children’s well-being in Tanzania. Child Indicators Research.

Exavery, A., Katbi, M., Kirigiti, P. J., Balan, R. T., & Charles, J. (2024, April 16). Multivariate mixed-effects ordinal logistic regression models with difference-in-differences estimator of the impact of WORTH Yetu on household hunger and socioeconomic status among OVC caregivers in Tanzania. PLOS ONE.

Exavery, A., Alam, K., Charles, J., Barankena, A., Bajaria, S., Minja, E., Mulikuza, J., Mbwambo, T., Ally, A., Mseya, R., et al. (2022, February 25). Impact of household economic strengthening intervention on food security among caregivers of orphans and vulnerable children in Tanzania. PLOS ONE. 21, December). Accelerating caregivers’ HIV status disclosure to community-based lay social welfare volunteers in Tanzania. AIDS Research and Therapy.

Exavery, A., Charles, J., Barankena, A., Kuhlik, E., Mubyazi, G. M., Tani, K., Ally, A., Minja, E., Koler, A., Kikoyo, L., et al. (2020, December). ART use and associated factors among HIV positive caregivers of orphans and vulnerable children in Tanzania. BMC Public Health.

Charles, J., Exavery, A., Barankena, A., Kuhlik, E., Mubyazi, G. M., Abdul, R., Koler, A., Kikoyo, L., & Jere, E. (2020, December). Determinants of undisclosed HIV status to a community-based HIV program: Findings from caregivers of orphans and vulnerable children in Tanzania. AIDS Research and Therapy.

Bajaria, S., Exavery, A., Toroka, N., Barankena, A., Charles, J., Kikoyo, L., & Kassaye, S. (2020, December 27). Factors associated with HIV status disclosure to orphans and vulnerable children living with HIV: Results from a longitudinal study in Tanzania. AIDS Research and Treatment.

Bajaria, S., Marotta, C., Abdul, R., Exavery, A., Minja, E., Charles, J., Mtenga, S., Jere, E., & Geubbels, E. (2020, September 18). Programmatic determinants of successful referral to health and social services for orphans and vulnerable children: A longitudinal study in Tanzania. PLOS ONE.

Exavery, A., Charles, J., Kuhlik, E., Barankena, A., Ally, A., Mbwambo, T., Kyaruzi, C., Mubyazi, G. M., Kikoyo, L., & Jere, E. (2020, July). Correlates of uptake of antiretroviral therapy in HIV-positive orphans and vulnerable children aged 0–14 years in Tanzania. HIV/AIDS – Research and Palliative Care.

Exavery, A., Charles, J., Kuhlik, E., Barankena, A., Mubyazi, G. M., Kikoyo, L., & Jere, E. (2020, July). Relationship between food insufficiency and HIV infection among caregivers of orphans and vulnerable children in Tanzania. HIV/AIDS – Research and Palliative Care.

Exavery, A., Charles, J., Kuhlik, E., Barankena, A., Koler, A., Kikoyo, L., & Jere, E. (2020, February 28). Understanding the association between caregiver sex and HIV infection among orphans and vulnerable children in Tanzania: Learning from the USAID Kizazi Kipya Project. Preprint.

Exavery, A., Charles, J., Kuhlik, E., Barankena, A., Koler, A., Kikoyo, L., & Jere, E. (2020, February 5). Is caregiver sex associated with HIV infection among orphans and vulnerable children in Tanzania? Learning from the USAID Kizazi Kipya Project. Preprint.

Exavery, A., Charles, J., Kuhlik, E., Barankena, A., Koler, A., Kikoyo, L., & Jere, E. (2019, September 12). Closing the pediatric gap in the first 90: Is caregiver sex associated with HIV status of orphans and vulnerable children? Learning from the USAID Kizazi Kipya Project in Tanzania. Preprint.

Salman Shahzad | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Salman Shahzad | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Xi'an Jiaotong University | China

Mr. Salman Shahzad is a distinguished legal researcher whose academic and scholarly work focuses on public-private partnerships, intellectual property law, and comparative legal systems. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Xi’an Jiaotong University, his research explores legal frameworks for public-private partnerships in emerging economies, particularly comparing Pakistan and China. He has earned recognition for his academic excellence, including awards from the New Silk Road Law School Alliance and multiple “Outstanding International Student” honors. His extensive participation in international conferences and training programs—ranging from AI law and corporate law to climate change and arbitration—reflects his interdisciplinary engagement with global legal challenges. With a strong foundation in intellectual property law from Zhongnan University of Economics and Law and an LLB from Abdul Wali Khan University, he has contributed significantly to discussions on copyright, patent harmonization, and digital regulation. His publications span topics such as AI liability, cyberbullying, and extradition law, featured in reputable platforms including ResearchGate and national newspapers. Mr. Shahzad’s active memberships in professional legal associations and contributions to legal education, writing, and policy discourse demonstrate his commitment to advancing legal scholarship and bridging comparative perspectives between national and international legal systems.

Profiles : Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Shahzad, S., & Wang, B. (2025, June 2). Geographical indications and sustainable development: Bridging policy gaps in Pakistan’s GI framework for socio-economic growth. Sustainability, 17(11), 5114.

Khadija Juma-Elflow | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Khadija Juma-Elflow | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Elmergib University | Libya

Mrs. Khadija Juma-Elflow is an accomplished educator and researcher in English Language Teaching (ELT), Applied Linguistics, and Teacher Education, currently pursuing a PhD in ELT at Eastern Mediterranean University, Cyprus. With extensive academic training including an MA in ELT from the University of Reading, a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Linguistics, a CELTA certification, and multiple professional teacher training credentials, she has built a strong foundation in language teaching, curriculum design, and pedagogical research. Since 2011, she has served as a lecturer at the University of El-Mergib, Libya, instructing both English language and non-English major students while mentoring pre-service teachers during their teaching practice and supervising research projects. Her professional development includes training primary and secondary school teachers, leading workshops, and participating in international conferences such as AAAL, NileTESOL, and FEST. She has also engaged in specialized online training in technology transfer, academic research tools, quality assurance, action research, and digital tools for language instruction. Proficient in Arabic, English, and basic Spanish, with strong computing skills and experience using web-based teaching tools, her work integrates innovative pedagogical approaches, technology-enhanced learning, and evidence-based research to enhance language acquisition. Her contributions have significantly advanced the professional preparation of teachers and the development of effective ELT practices in higher education and beyond.

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Featured Publications

Juma-Elflow, K., & Osam, U. V. (2025). Intersectional conflicts and strategic agency: Female English teachers in post-conflict Libya. International Journal of Educational Research, 125, 102756.

Juma-Elflow, K. (2025, March 22). Exploring female EFL language teachers' emotions in relation to power and agency. Paper presented at the American Association of Applied Linguistics (AAAL) Conference, Denver, CO, USA.

Juma-Elflow, K., & Tonkyn, A. (2025). The effects of different amounts of planning time on accuracy of producing certain grammatical items in an oral narrative task. In Conference Proceedings

Hakan Tahiri Mutlu | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan Tahiri Mutlu | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University | Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan Tahiri Mutlu is a distinguished academic in the fields of business, statistics, and applied quantitative methods, with a research portfolio spanning management, e-commerce, sustainability, and decision-making techniques. He has authored 11 scholarly documents, which have collectively received 35 citations, and he holds an h-index of 4, reflecting the impact of his work. Dr. Mutlu earned his Ph.D. in Business from Düzce University in 2020 with a thesis on optimal warranty policies and later completed doctoral studies in Statistics at Gazi University in 2016, following a master’s degree in Business and a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. Throughout his academic career, he has held positions ranging from research assistant to associate professor at Abant İzzet Baysal University, contributing significantly to the Department of Business and Quantitative Methods. He has supervised multiple master’s and doctoral theses on topics including structural equation modeling, employee satisfaction, decision-making systems, and technology adoption. His research outputs include publications in internationally peer-reviewed journals and contributions to scientific books, covering subjects such as ESG performance, food waste, social media addiction, e-commerce, and entrepreneurial capital. Dr. Mutlu has also been actively involved in national research projects and has served in administrative roles such as coordinator for scientific research projects, faculty board member, and deputy head of the department, demonstrating both scholarly and institutional leadership.

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Featured Publications

Tutar, H., Streimikiene, D., Mutlu, H. T., Kloudova, J., & Bilan, Y. (2025). Global food waste as an anti-sustainability trend: Analysis of economic and environmental impacts across countries. British Food Journal.

Tutar, H., Štreimikienė, D., & Mutlu, H. T. (2025). The relationship between ESG and financial performance in global firms: A multidimensional study across sectors and regions for the period 2015–2025. Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management.

Tutar, H., Mutlu, H. T., & Streimikiene, D. (2025). Rethinking sustainable development: Multidimensional comparisons across countries and regions. Sustainable Development.

Akın, A., & Mutlu, H. T. (2025). Do Turkish physicians support euthanasia / death tourism? European Journal of Tourism, Hospitality and Recreation.

Akın, A., & Mutlu, H. T. (2025). The gastronomic product of the gastronomy city of Gaziantep: Menengiç coffee. Abant Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi.

Tutar, H., Mutlu, H. T., & Yüzen, İ. (2025). Regional disparities based on foreign trade and growth in TR42 and TR33 regions (2010–2024). Nevşehir Hacı Bektaş Veli Üniversitesi SBE Dergisi.

Tutar, H., Mutlu, H. T., & Uzun, H. (2025). Yöneticilerde empati yoksunluğu ölçeği: Geçerlilik ve güvenirlik çalışması [Lack of empathy in managers scale: Validity and reliability study]. Journal of Business Research - Turk.

Mutlu, H. T., Süvari, E., & Orhan, M. (2024). Coğrafi bilgi sistemi tabanlı çok kriterli karar verme yöntemi ile kaykay parkı yer seçimi: Bolu örneği [Skate park site selection using GIS-based multi-criteria decision method: Bolu case]. Abant Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi.

Tutar, H., & Mutlu, H. T. (2024). Dijital yorgunluk ölçeği (DİYÖ): Geçerlilik ve güvenirlik çalışması [Digital fatigue scale: Validity and reliability study]. İletişim Kuram ve Araştırma Dergisi.

Tutar, H., & Mutlu, H. T. (2024). Problematic digital technology use scale among university students: A validity and reliability study. Yuksekogretim Dergisi.

Ocel, Y., Mutlu, H. T., & Bayat, M. (2023). Determination of the relationship between lifestyle and impulsive purchasing behaviour. Marketing and Management of Innovations.

Tutar, H., & Mutlu, H. T. (2023). The mediating and regulatory role of organizational desensitization in the relationship between shrinkage of aim and loss of motivation. Yönetim ve Ekonomi Araştırmaları Dergisi.

Terzibaş, A., Mutlu, H. T., & Kavcar, B. (2023). Girişimcinin sahip olduğu bireysel girişimci sermayesi türlerinin girişim başarısına etkisi (TR42 bölgesinde bir araştırma) [The effect of individual entrepreneurial capital types on entrepreneurial success: A study in TR42 region]. Fiscaoeconomia.

Mutlu, H. T., & Yildiz, M. S. (2023). Determination of the optimal warranty policy and period from the manufacturer’s/seller’s perspective. Communications in Statistics - Simulation and Computation.

Tamirat Taye | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Tamirat Taye | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mizan Tepi University | Ethiopia

Mr. Tamirat Taye is a lecturer in the Department of English Language and Literature at Mizan-Tepi University, Ethiopia, with over six years of academic and research experience. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Mekelle University and his Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) from Jimma University. His teaching focuses on undergraduate English courses while actively contributing to curriculum development, community service, and research in applied linguistics, English pedagogy, and literature integration. Tamirat has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed publications in reputed journals such as Social Sciences & Humanities Open, English Education Journal, and Journal of Social and Educational Research, addressing topics ranging from writing challenges and speaking skills to the role of literary texts in EFL contexts. His recent works highlight critical perspectives on language teaching methodologies, proverbs, and reading strategies in Ethiopian higher education. With a growing academic footprint, he has produced 12 scholarly documents, receiving 65 citations and maintaining an h-index of 4, reflecting both productivity and influence in his field. Through his commitment to teaching, research, and professional development, Tamirat continues to advance language education and foster cross-cultural academic dialogue.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • "The impact of extensive reading on academic writing proficiency in EFL undergraduate students"

  • "Negative social implications of Amharic proverbs on women, children, and power dynamics in Ethiopian society"

  • "The benefits and challenges of integrating literary texts in English language textbooks in Ethiopian grade 12 English language classrooms"

  • "The Efficacy of Direct, Indirect and Peer Feedback Error Correction Techniques in EFL Writing"

  • "Assessing Secondary School Students' Awareness and Challenges in Using Intensive and Extensive Reading Methods in Ethiopia"

  • "Assessing the Role of Literary Texts in Students’ Cultural Awareness, Historical Understanding, and Challenges Faced by EFL Students"

Gnana Sanga Mithra S | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gnana Sanga Mithra S | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Vinayaka Mission Research Foundation | India

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Gnana Sanga Mithra S began her academic journey with a deep interest in sociology, completing her foundational studies in the discipline and quickly emerging as a standout student. Her pursuit of higher education was marked by consistent excellence, securing awards and recognition for her academic achievements. During her postgraduate studies in sociology, she actively engaged in student leadership and union activities, demonstrating both intellectual curiosity and leadership qualities. Her doctoral research explored the lived realities of transwomen and transmen, reflecting her commitment to understanding and addressing issues faced by marginalized communities. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for her lifelong dedication to social sciences and inclusive research.

Professional Endeavors

Her professional journey reflects a steady rise through academia, beginning with roles in esteemed institutions where she nurtured young minds in sociology. Over the years, she has held significant positions in renowned colleges and universities, combining teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities. She has served in multiple academic institutions, contributing to both classroom pedagogy and institutional development. Currently, she holds the positions of Associate Professor and Associate Dean for Research in Interdisciplinary Studies, as well as serving as a post-doctoral supervisor at an international university. These roles highlight her stature as an educator, mentor, and academic leader.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Mithra’s research is characterized by its intersectional and socially conscious focus, particularly on gender studies, LGBTQ+ rights, and the empowerment of transgender communities. She has undertaken and led numerous projects addressing crucial issues such as menstrual hygiene, climate change impact on marginalized groups, government welfare schemes for transgender individuals, and traditional health practices among indigenous tribes. Her work bridges the gap between academic inquiry and social advocacy, ensuring that her research outcomes contribute meaningfully to both knowledge and community development. Through publications, patents, and policy-focused studies, she has consistently demonstrated an innovative and impactful research trajectory.

Accolades and Recognition

Her career has been marked by numerous awards and honors that celebrate her academic excellence, research innovation, and leadership. She has been recognized internationally with awards such as Best Paper Presenter distinctions, commendations as a budding researcher, and accolades for her role as an educational leader. Her early recognition as a Star Performer during her student days and her later achievement of the prestigious Raman Research Award for outstanding publication underscore her lifelong commitment to excellence. These honors reflect not only her scholarly contributions but also her dedication to advancing social sciences on a global platform.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Mithra’s influence extends far beyond her classrooms and research projects. She has contributed to creating inclusive academic spaces, mentoring students in critical social thinking, and inspiring them to engage with pressing societal issues. Her research on transgender rights and marginalized communities has informed debates in policy, academia, and civil society, influencing perspectives and promoting social justice. By serving as a reviewer, editorial board member, and subject matter expert for leading journals and institutions, she has also shaped the global discourse in sociology and interdisciplinary research.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Her growing body of scholarly work, including books, edited volumes, and numerous journal articles, ensures her lasting contribution to the academic community. She continues to spearhead projects that address contemporary social issues, such as digital misinformation, AI’s role in healthcare, and the evolving dynamics of human rights. With upcoming publications and ongoing research on climate change and transgender communities, her legacy is one of a visionary scholar who bridges theory with practice. Her commitment to fostering equity, inclusion, and awareness positions her as a leading voice for the future of social sciences and policy advocacy.

Publications


Article: Forgotten Lives: A Mixed-Methods Study on Cognitive Decline Associated with Discrimination Among Elderly Transgender Individuals in India
Authors: S. Gnana Sanga Mithra; S. Bhavana
Journal: Social Science & Medicine
Year: 2025


Book Chapter: Inclusive Workforce Empowerment: Mapping Tamilnadu’s Welfare Initiative With the Transgender Community
Authors: Gnana Sanga Mithra, S.; Suriya, S.
Book: Organization, Purpose and Values: Integrating Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Year: 2024


Article: Enhancing Well-Being: Menstrual Sanitation Practices Amongst Rural Adolescent Girls in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Pema Choden Bhutia; Gnana Sanga Mithra S.; Suriya S.
Journal: Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental
Year: 2024


Article: Unraveling the factors shaping academic success: A structural equation modeling approach for college students
Authors: Wenwen Cao; S. Gnana Sanga Mithra; Aravind B R
Journal: Heliyon
Year: 2024


Article: Digital Humanities and Game Ethics: Investigating the Impact of Representation in Gaming
Authors: Edhaya Chandran E; Gnana Sanga Mithra S.
Journal: Studies in Media and Communication
Year: 2023


Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gnana Sanga Mithra S stands as a distinguished educator, researcher, and advocate whose career embodies the integration of academic rigor with social responsibility. From her early academic pursuits to her current leadership roles, she has remained steadfast in her mission to empower marginalized communities and expand the horizons of social sciences. Her contributions resonate in both scholarly circles and wider society, leaving a meaningful impact that will continue to inspire future generations. With her dedication to interdisciplinary research and inclusive advocacy, she has carved a legacy of scholarship rooted in compassion, equity, and transformative change.

Maria Bougiesi | Social Sciences | Excellence in Research Award

Dr. Maria Bougiesi | Social Sciences | Excellence in Research Award

University of Thessaly | Greece

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Maria Bougiesi began her academic journey at the University of Thessaly, Greece, earning a Bachelor’s degree from the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science. Her passion for understanding the mind-body connection led her to pursue a double Master’s degree in Sport Psychology, deepening her knowledge in behavioral sciences and physical activity. This solid foundation laid the groundwork for her pioneering doctoral research on mental health differences across age groups participating in dance and group exercise programs.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Maria’s academic insights are complemented by a strong practical background. She has taught Greek traditional dance to people of all ages, skillfully merging cultural heritage with scientific methodology. Her teaching style reflects her belief in the therapeutic and developmental power of movement. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Bougiesi has actively contributed to research projects, international conferences, and serves as a peer reviewer for academic journals, marking her presence in the global academic community.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Bougiesi’s research bridges psychology, neuroscience, and physical activity, with a specific focus on how dance and exercise influence cognitive function and mental well-being. Her PhD internship at Otto von Guericke University in Germany provided her with exposure to cutting-edge studies in neurosciences and mental health, while her Master's studies also included enriching experiences at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland and an intensive academic course in Belgium. Her work is notable for exploring the psychological effects of dance across diverse age groups.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Maria’s interdisciplinary expertise and dynamic approach have gained recognition in the form of academic collaborations, teaching invitations, and conference presentations. She is admired for her dedication, creativity, and empathy, and her work continues to attract interest from both the academic and wellness communities.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Bougiesi’s mission is clear: to promote global well-being through dance. Her influence extends beyond academia into the lives of individuals and communities who benefit from her programs. Whether working with youth or seniors, she emphasizes inclusivity, self-expression, and mental wellness, making her research truly impactful on a human and societal level.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Dr. Bougiesi aspires to expand her international collaborations and create accessible dance-based wellness interventions tailored for different age groups. Her goal is to make dance a universally acknowledged tool for mental health, blending culture, science, and joy. As she continues her journey, her legacy will be defined by her unwavering commitment to interdisciplinary education, health promotion, and the empowerment of all through movement.

Publications


📄 The Level of Quality of Life Experienced by Young Adults Practicing Greek Traditional Dance, Latin Dance and Group Exercise Programs
Authors: M. Bougiesi, V. Zisi
Journal: Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Year: 2025


📄 Rhythmic cueing, dance, resistance training, and Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: C.C. Karpodini, P.C. Dinas, E. Angelopoulou, M.A. Wyon, A.N. Haas, ...
Journal: Frontiers in Neurology
Year: 2022


📄 Emotional Intelligence Levels of Adult Hellenic Traditional Dancers and Group Exercisers
Authors: M. Bougiesi, P. Dinas, V. Zisi, E. Pollatou, Y. Theodorakis
Journal: Inquiries in Sport & Physical Education
Year: 2021


📄 Systematic Participation in Folk Dance or Physical Activity? Effects in Quality of Life in the Elderly
Authors: Β. Ζήση, Α. Γιάννη, Μ. Μπουγιέση, E. Πολλάτου, M. Μιχαλοπούλου
Journal: Inquiries in Sport & Physical Education
Year: 2014


📄 Quality of Life and Dance in Middle Aged and Older Adults: A Literature Review
 Authors: M. Bougiesi, A. Gianni, V. Zisi
 Journal: Inquiries in Sport & Physical Education
 Year: 2014


Tara Mahfoud | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tara Mahfoud | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University of Essex | United Kingdom

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Tara Mahfoud’s academic foundation is rooted in an exceptional interdisciplinary trajectory. She began her journey with a BA in Sociology and Anthropology (Distinction) from the American University of Beirut, followed by an MA in Social Anthropology (Distinction) from SOAS, University of London, and culminated in a PhD in Anthropology from King’s College London. Her early focus on the human and societal aspects of science set the stage for a career that merges anthropology, sociology, and neuroscience.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Currently a Lecturer (Assistant Professor) at the University of Essex, Dr. Mahfoud has held prestigious roles including Visiting Research Fellowships at Harvard University and the University of Edinburgh, and key research positions at King’s College London. Her teaching repertoire spans modules like Psychiatry and Mental Illness, The Sociological Imagination, and Politics of Medicine, reflecting a rich blend of social science and biomedical inquiry. Her roles have consistently bridged the gap between research and pedagogy with interdisciplinary clarity.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Mahfoud’s research lies at the intersection of neuroscience, sociology, science and technology studies (STS), and bioethics. She has co-led multiple interdisciplinary projects that explore the societal dimensions of brain science, responsible innovation, and data ethics. Her work in the Human Brain Project, particularly in modeling and integrating neuroscience with social science, exemplifies her pioneering role in shaping the “neuro-social” interface.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Her academic excellence has been consistently recognized. She received the Best Dissertation Award in Anthropology at SOAS and a King’s College Annual Fund Studentship during her PhD. She has since secured significant research grants, including from the Foundation for the Sociology of Health and Illness, University of Essex, and the Independent Social Research Foundation, attesting to her leadership in collaborative and cutting-edge scholarship.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Dr. Mahfoud’s work has had a profound impact on understanding how society interacts with emerging brain technologies. Her publications in top-tier journals like New Media & Society, Science, Technology & Human Values, and Interdisciplinary Science Reviews are frequently cited, particularly in discussions around AI ethics, predictive brain models, and Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI). As a thought leader, she is also shaping the training of future neuroscientists and sociologists through transdisciplinary education.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Tara Mahfoud continues to be a beacon in sociology of neuroscience, fostering global collaborations, and mentoring the next generation of socially conscious scientists. With her upcoming book A Brain for Europe (MIT Press), she is set to further influence public discourse on the political and cultural stakes of neuroscience. Her work not only interrogates the science-society interface but helps reimagine it with inclusivity, ethics, and responsibility.

Publications


📄 Experiments in Anticipation: Learning from Responsible Research and Innovation in the Human Brain Project

Authors: Christine Aicardi, Tara Mahfoud, Nikolas Rose
Journal: Futures
Year: 2025


📄 Formal and Informal Infrastructures of Collaboration in the Human Brain Project

Authors: Christine Aicardi, Tara Mahfoud
Journal: Science, Technology & Human Values
Year: 2024


📄  Interdisciplinary and Collaborative Training in Neuroscience: Insights from the Human Brain Project Education Programme

Authors: Alice Geminiani, Judith Kathrein, Alper Yegenoglu, Franziska Vogel, Marcelo Armendariz, Ziv Ben-Zion, Petrut Antoni Bogdan, Joana Covelo, Marissa Diaz Pier, Karin Grasenick, Vitali Karasenko, Wouter Klijn, Tina Kokan, Carmen Alina Lupascu, Anna Lührs, Tara Mahfoud, and others
Journal: Neuroinformatics
Year: 2024


📄  Experimentation, Learning, and Dialogue: An RRI-Inspired Approach to Dual-Use of Concern

Authors: Inga Ulnicane, Tara Mahfoud, Arleen Salles
Journal: Journal of Responsible Innovation
Year: 2023


📄 Clinical Translation of Computational Brain Models: Understanding the Salience of Trust in Clinician–Researcher Relationships

Author: Tara Mahfoud
Journal: Interdisciplinary Science Reviews
Year: 2021


João Pedro Da Ponte | Social Sciences | Lifetime Achievement Award

Prof. Dr. João Pedro Da Ponte | Social Sciences | Lifetime Achievement Award

Institute of Education of the University of Lisbon | Portugal

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. João Pedro da Ponte embarked on his academic journey with a Licenciatura in Mathematics from the University of Lisbon in 1979. He later earned a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) from the University of Georgia, USA, in 1984, graduating with a perfect GPA of 4.0. His academic career was further solidified with the title of Professor Agregado in Education in 1995 at the University of Lisbon.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Prof. da Ponte has had a long and distinguished teaching career. Starting as a high school math teacher in 1975, he moved into academia, serving in various roles at the University of Lisbon:

  •  ➤ Full Professor (2002–2023) at the Faculty of Sciences and later at the Institute of Education.

  •  ➤ Emeritus Professor (2023–Present) at the Institute of Education, University of Lisbon.

He was also a visiting professor at several prestigious universities, including UNICAMP, UFMG, UFPR (Brazil), the University of Granada and Badajoz (Spain), and the University of Georgia (USA).

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. da Ponte’s academic focus revolves around mathematics education, teacher training, and lesson study methodologies. His research has deeply explored:

  •  ➤ Mathematical reasoning

  •  ➤ Didactics of mathematics

  •  ➤ Teacher professional development

  •  ➤ Collaborative learning and lesson study

He has coordinated and participated in over a dozen national and international research projects, including ERASMUS+ LIFT, REASON, and EDUCATE, contributing substantially to European education reform and innovation in teaching practices.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. da Ponte's outstanding work has been widely recognized:

  •  ➤ Scientific Award from the University of Lisbon in Education Sciences (2019)

  •  ➤ Fulbright Fellowship (1991) for postdoctoral research

  •  ➤ JNICT Fellowship (1982–84) for his doctoral studies in the United States

His influence extends into editorial roles for journals such as:

  •  ➤ Journal of Mathematics Teacher Education

  •  ➤ Quadrante

  •  ➤ Zetetiké

  •  ➤ BOLEMA

He is also a prolific author with dozens of peer-reviewed publications and book chapters to his name.

🌍 Impact and Influence

His leadership shaped the academic direction of the University of Lisbon’s Institute of Education, where he served as Director, President of the Scientific Council, and coordinator of research and master’s programs. Internationally, he played a vital role in shaping mathematics education policies and teacher training standards across Europe and Latin America. Prof. da Ponte has mentored countless educators and researchers, establishing a legacy of scholarly excellence and collaborative learning culture.

🧭 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. João Pedro da Ponte’s lifelong dedication continues through his emeritus position and ongoing involvement in EU-funded education projects. His innovative work on lesson study, teacher reflection, and mathematics didactics continues to inspire a new generation of educators and researchers. With his contributions bridging research and classroom practice, he remains a guiding light in transforming education for the 21st century.

Publications


📝  Introducing Exploratory Teaching in Preservice Teacher Education Through Lesson Study

Authors: Nicole Duarte, João Pedro da Ponte, Filipa Faria
Journal: Education Sciences
Year: 2025


📝  Building Didactic Knowledge from Reflection in Lesson Studies

Authors: Gorete Fonseca, João Pedro da Ponte
Journal: International Journal for Lesson & Learning Studies
Year: 2025


📝  From Teacher Surplus to Teacher Shortage and Its Effects on Teacher Education: The Portuguese Case

Authors: Maria Assunção Flores, Hélia Oliveira, João Pedro da Ponte
Journal: European Journal of Teacher Education
Year: 2025


📝  “É só aplicar a fórmula: Δ = b² - 4ac”

Authors: Klinger Teodoro Ciríaco, Maria Raquel Miotto Morelatti, João Pedro da Ponte
Journal: Revista e-Curriculum
Year: 2024


📝  Uso da Linguagem Algébrica com Compreensão: Uma Experiência de Ensino Baseada no Raciocínio Matemático

Authors: Kelly Aguiar, João Pedro da Ponte, Marisa Quaresma
Journal: Educación Matemática
Year: 2024


Francis Vincent Anthony | Social Sciences | Pioneer Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Francis Vincent Anthony | Social Sciences | Pioneer Researcher Award

Sacred Heart College (Autonomous) | India

Author Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Dr. Francis Vincent Anthony was born in Bombay, India, on April 27, 1954. He began his academic journey with a Diploma in Printing Technology (1976–1979) in Chennai, followed by a Baccalaureate in Theology at the Salesian Pontifical University (UPS) in Rome (1981–1984). He earned a Licentiate and Doctorate in Theology with specialization in Youth Ministry and Catechetics from UPS (1985–1993). His doctoral dissertation focused on inculturation in Catholic schools in the Tamil cultural context, setting the foundation for a lifelong commitment to contextual theology.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Anthony has had an extensive teaching and leadership career at the Salesian Pontifical University (UPS) in Rome since 1993. Rising from Adjunct Professor to Full Professor of General Practical Theology, he also served in key administrative roles including Director of the Institute of Pastoral Theology, Coordinator of Doctoral Programs, and Director of the Interfaculty Research Committee. Outside UPS, he has lectured internationally in India, Italy, and various theological faculties. His academic reach spans Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America, mentoring doctoral students across diverse contexts.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Anthony is internationally acclaimed for pioneering research in empirical theology, pastoral youth ministry, inculturation, intercultural theology, religious conflict, and human rights. His work integrates empirical methods with theological inquiry, bridging academic theory with grassroots realities. He led or participated in over 25 major international research projects, including “Religion and Human Rights,” “Intercultural Theology,” and “Youth and Faith in Pluralistic Contexts.” His research covers thematic intersections between religion, culture, identity, and social justice.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Anthony is a respected voice in global theological circles, having served on boards and committees of international organizations such as:

📘 International Society for Empirical Research in Theology (ISERT) – Vice President
📗 International Academy of Practical Theology (IAPT) – Executive Board Member
📕 Journal of Empirical Theology – Consultant Editorial Board
📙 Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant People – Scientific Committee Member

His publications, including 9 books and over 100 peer-reviewed articles, are highly cited and frequently used in theology and religious studies worldwide.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Anthony's work has profoundly influenced Catholic theological education, pastoral ministry models, and youth formation strategies across continents. His research in Tamil Nadu, India, and among migrant communities has shaped policies in interreligious dialogue, faith-based education, and civic engagement. By bridging spirituality, culture, and empirical inquiry, he has reshaped how theology responds to global diversity and contemporary crises.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Dr. Francis Vincent Anthony's legacy lies in his interdisciplinary, intercultural, and praxis-oriented theology. With ongoing projects such as Youth Practical Theology and empirical studies on ecology, migration, and pluralism, his future contributions promise to strengthen public theology, human dignity, and inclusive citizenship. His enduring vision is to create a world where faith communities actively collaborate for justice, peace, and human flourishing.

Publications


📄 Public Religious Pedagogy Amidst Religious Pluralism: Qualitative Study Among Hindu and Muslim Educators in Salesian Institutions of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Francis-Vincent Anthony, Antony Christy Lourdunathan
Journal: Religions
Year: 2025


📄 Public Theology of Educational and Social Service: Sharing the Salesian Charism and Mission with Adherents of Neighbour Religions and People of Goodwill
Author: Francis-Vincent Anthony
Type: Book Chapter
Year: 2024


📄 Human Rights and the Separation of State and Religion
Editor/Contributor: Francis-Vincent Anthony
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland
Year: 2023


📄 Mario Midali: Making of a Practical Theologian
Author: Francis-Vincent Anthony
Journal: Salesianum
Year: 2023


📄 Percorsi di ricerca teologica. Studi in ricordo del prof. Mario Midali (1928–2021). Presentazione
Author: Francis-Vincent Anthony
Journal: Salesianum
Year: 2023