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.

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.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

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.

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.

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


Sam Amosa | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sam Amosa | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

The National University of Samoa | Samoa
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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Sam Amosa’s academic journey reflects a strong commitment to both theological and social sciences education. He completed his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Charles Sturt University in Sydney, Australia, in 2020, following his Master of Theology (MTh) honors in 2014, also from Charles Sturt University. Before pursuing his postgraduate studies, Dr. Amosa earned his Bachelor of Theology (BTh) at Malua Theological College in Samoa in 2009. This diverse academic foundation set the stage for his multifaceted career in research and teaching.

Professional Endeavors 🧑‍🏫

Dr. Amosa's professional journey has spanned both academic and community-driven roles. Currently, he serves as the Head of the Department and Senior Lecturer in Development Studies at the Centre for Samoan Studies at The National University of Samoa. In this leadership role, he teaches postgraduate students, conducts research, and contributes to both the university’s academic development and the broader Samoan community. His teaching experience also includes faculty positions at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, where he has developed and taught various courses, including new advanced research methods and criminology courses. Dr. Amosa's previous roles include being a Church Minister at EFKS St. Mary's, where he provided spiritual and social leadership to a growing congregation.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Amosa’s research focuses on public theology, sociology, and social development, particularly within the context of Pacific Island communities. His work integrates a deep understanding of local culture and theology, with studies such as the role of public faifeau (church leaders) in Samoa’s social development. He is also pioneering research into online gaming and its impact on student life at The National University of Samoa. His interdisciplinary approach has led him to engage with both the theological and social aspects of community issues, contributing to Pacific knowledge and public policy discussions.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Amosa’s academic and professional achievements have garnered recognition across various fields. His publications in high-impact journals, such as Religions, International Journal for Crime, Justice and Social Democracy, and Research Methods in Applied Linguistics, reflect his wide-reaching impact in academia. He has presented at multiple international conferences, sharing insights on topics such as Samoan criminology theory, public theology, and the role of the faifeau in addressing social issues. His work continues to resonate with both scholars and practitioners in the fields of social development, theology, and sociology.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Amosa's work has had a profound impact on both the academic community and his local society in Samoa. As a senior academic and researcher, he has influenced public policy and social development practices in Samoa. His research on online gaming and its influence on students’ lives has practical implications for educational institutions, while his contributions to public theology have sparked discussions about the evolving role of church leaders in addressing contemporary social challenges. His leadership at the National University of Samoa has also paved the way for interdisciplinary research collaborations, fostering a vibrant academic environment.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Dr. Amosa’s legacy is built upon his dedication to bridging theological understanding with practical social interventions in Pacific Island communities. His future contributions are poised to expand, particularly in the areas of public theology and social development, as he continues to lead significant research projects on topics like the role of public faifeau in societal development. Dr. Amosa’s ongoing research will undoubtedly continue to shape the discourse surrounding education, community development, and the intersection of theology with social justice in Samoa and beyond.

Publications


  • 📄 The Rupturing of Samoa’s Foundations: On the Importance of a Public Theology
    Author: Sam Amosa
    Journal: Religions
    Year: 2025


  • 📄 Fa'avae: A Samoan Theory of Crime from the ‘South’ Pacific
    Author: Sam Amosa
    Journal: International Journal for Crime, Justice and Social Democracy
    Year: 2024


  • 📄 Lost for Words: Samoa’s Constitutional Crisis and the Case for a Public Theology
    Author: Sam Amosa
    Journal: International Journal of Public Theology
    Year: 2023


  • 📄 Tusi Taiala o Tusi o le Tusi Paia Mo Tagata Lotu
    Author: Sam Amosa
    Publisher: Specialty Press
    Year: 2021


  • 📄 Embodying Aga Tausili: A Public Theology from Oceania, written by Mercy Ah Siu-Maliko
    Author: Faala Sam Amosa
    Journal: International Journal of Public Theology
    Year: 2021


 

Patrick Laviolette | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Patrick Laviolette | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award 

Berghahn Journals | Germany

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Patrick Laviolette's academic journey began with a deep interest in human-environment relationships. His undergraduate studies at Concordia University in Montreal, where he earned a BA with distinction, laid the foundation for his intellectual curiosity. He later pursued an MSc in Human Ecology from the University of Edinburgh, where he explored conservation scenarios and cultural landscapes, delving into themes of heritage and ecological preservation. This culminated in his Ph.D. in Anthropology from University College London, where his research focused on the symbolic meanings and identities attached to the Cornish landscape. His academic mentors included some of the most notable figures in the field, such as Professors Chris Tilley and Barbara Bender.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Throughout his career, Dr. Laviolette has held numerous influential positions in academia. His work has spanned continents, from New Zealand to Europe. Notably, he served as Professor of Anthropology and Chair of the School of Humanities at Tallinn University in Estonia from 2010 to 2018. Prior to that, he was a Senior Lecturer and Director of Postgraduate Studies at Massey University in New Zealand, where he led innovative research in visual and material culture. Dr. Laviolette’s career also saw him as a research fellow and lecturer at University College London. His most recent position, as an Assistant Professor at Masaryk University in the Czech Republic, continues to allow him to influence and mentor future anthropologists.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Laviolette’s research covers a wide spectrum of anthropological and interdisciplinary themes. His contributions to the study of visual and material culture, political ecology, and risk recreation stand out. He is particularly interested in the phenomenology of landscapes, exploring how spaces like Cornwall, Scotland, and Estonia shape cultural identity and collective memory. His work on "placelessness" and "surveillance technologies" reveals a keen interest in the intersection between people, their environments, and how those environments are changing in a modern, globalized world. He has published extensively on topics like heritage landscapes, autobiographies, and assistive technologies, leaving a significant mark on the field of anthropology.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Laviolette’s academic prowess has earned him multiple fellowships and visiting scholar positions. He was an EUFISCDI Fellow at the prestigious New Europe College in Bucharest and held a Residency Fellowship between the University of Leicester and Tartu. His work has also gained recognition at international conferences, and his leadership in the field is evidenced by his numerous guest editorships and contributions to special journal issues. His book, Hitchhiking: Cultural Inroads, published by Palgrave Macmillan, is considered a significant contribution to cultural anthropology and transport studies.

Impact and Influence 🌐

Dr. Laviolette’s interdisciplinary approach has made a profound impact on the way we understand the relationship between people and their environments. His focus on placelessness and identity has brought new insights into how global phenomena like migration and tourism reshape local landscapes and cultural symbols. He has not only shaped academic thought but also influenced policy discussions on heritage preservation and sustainable tourism, particularly through his work in Estonia and Cornwall.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

As Dr. Laviolette continues his research and teaching at Masaryk University, his legacy as a thought leader in anthropology grows. His forthcoming works, including Placelessness Revisited and He the Tikopia, promise to further extend his contributions to the understanding of place, identity, and biographical narratives. His ongoing research into visual anthropology and material culture ensures that his influence will be felt for many years to come, inspiring future generations of scholars.

 

Publications


  • 📘"Hitchhiking and the Production of Haptic Knowledge"
    Authors: Jonathan Purkis, Patrick Laviolette
    Journal: Humanities
    Year: 2024

  • 📘"Thinglessness: Without Living Things"
    Author: Patrick Laviolette
    Journal: Home Cultures
    Year: 2024

  • 📘"Response to Issue 32 (2) – ‘Off the Grid on the Road in Europe’"
    Author: Patrick Laviolette
    Journal: Anthropological Journal of European Cultures
    Year: 2024

  • 📘"Book Review: Jonathan Purkis, Driving with Strangers: What Hitchhiking Tells Us about Humanity"
    Author: Patrick Laviolette
    Journal: Sociology
    Year: 2024

  • 📘"Echo and the Ecumene"
    Authors: Art Leete, Patrick Laviolette
    Journal: Anthropological Journal of European Cultures
    Year: 2022

 

Domenico Piccininno | Social Sciences | Best Research Award

Dr. Domenico Piccininno | Social Sciences | Best Research Award

Forensic Science Academy | Italy

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Domenico Piccininno’s academic journey began with a focus on criminology, forensic psychology, and neuroscience. His studies laid the groundwork for a deep understanding of crime, deviance, and restorative justice. He pursued advanced training and certifications, including a Master’s degree in Law with a specialization in Criminology and Forensic Science, enhancing his expertise in these critical fields.

Professional Endeavors 🌟

Dr. Piccininno is a seasoned HR Specialist, Scouting Coordinator, and Delivery Manager. He has been the Scientific Director of the Forensic Science Academy (FSA) and the Director of the magazine Criminologia Italia since October 2019. His roles include screening CVs, conducting interviews, and organizing job days focused on soft skills and digital dependencies. His professional journey encompasses significant positions at organizations such as the Emmanuel Community, Villa Maraini Foundation, and FIMEP. Dr. Piccininno also contributes as a speaker and trainer, offering workshops and orientations on communication and recruitment.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Piccininno’s research spans digital addictions, youth deviance, and restorative justice. His projects include studying video game addiction in youth and the impact of mindfulness on restorative justice. He has supervised and coordinated numerous research projects, including those at the FSA and CESP. His work in criminological research is complemented by his involvement in designing educational programs and tutoring for various initiatives aimed at improving forensic and criminological practices.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Piccininno has earned recognition for his contributions to criminology and forensic science. His involvement in high-impact projects and his role as a director and scientific advisor reflect his expertise and influence in the field. His publications and presentations at conferences further highlight his standing as a leading expert in forensic psychology and criminology.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Piccininno’s impact is significant in both academic and practical realms. His work has influenced policies and practices related to digital addictions and restorative justice. His contributions to criminological research and education have shaped the understanding and management of deviant behavior and criminal justice. His leadership at the FSA and contributions to Criminologia Italia underscore his role in advancing forensic science and criminology.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Dr. Piccininno’s legacy lies in his pioneering work in digital addictions and restorative justice. His future contributions are expected to continue advancing criminological research, particularly in the areas of empathy, mediation, and the application of neuroscience in crime prevention. His ongoing work in training and education will further enhance the field, influencing future generations of criminologists and forensic experts.

 

Publications


📚"Video Game Addiction in Young People (8–18 Years Old) after the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Grey Area of Addiction and the Phenomenon of “Gaming Non-Pathological Abuse (GNPA)” 

Authors: Domenico Piccininno and Giulio Perrotta

Journal: Epidemiologia

Year: 2024


 

Tito Vagni | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Tito Vagni | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Universitas Mercatorum | Italy

Author Profile

Scopus

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Tito Vagni began his academic journey with a deep interest in the sociology of cultural and communicative processes. His early studies laid the groundwork for his subsequent research and teaching endeavors. Over the years, he has cultivated expertise in media theory, aesthetics, and the interplay between media and societal effects.

Professional Endeavors 🎓

As an Associate Professor at Mercatorum University, Tito Vagni has made significant contributions to the field of sociology, particularly focusing on cultural and communicative processes. His professional journey includes notable roles as a consultant to the Segre Commission, which addresses issues related to intolerance, racism, anti-Semitism, and incitement to hatred and violence. His teaching and research have spanned several prestigious institutions, including University of Tuscia, La Sapienza University, and Instituto de Investigaciones Gino Germani, among others.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔍

Vagni's research interests are diverse and impactful. He explores media history, theory, and language, delving into contemporary issues such as hate speech in digital contexts and the relationships between media aesthetics and social effects. His work also examines contemporary myths and figures, as well as the intersection of media and gastronomy. His role as the director of the editorial series “Culturologica” at Guerini e Associati highlights his commitment to advancing scholarly discourse in these areas.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Tito Vagni's academic contributions have been recognized through his extensive publications in both Italian and international scientific journals. His books, including "Communication as Consumption" (Bevivino Editore 2012), "Living the TV. Theories, Imaginaries, Reality Shows" (Franco Angeli 2017), and "Digital Influence. Studies, Theories, and Research" (Guerini and Associates 2021), reflect his influential voice in the field. His consulting role with the Segre Commission further underscores his impact on addressing critical societal issues.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Vagni’s work has had a profound impact on understanding the role of media in shaping social perceptions and behaviors. His research on digital hate speech and media aesthetics contributes to ongoing discussions about media influence and social effects. By directing a prominent editorial series and contributing to leading academic journals, Vagni continues to shape the discourse in sociology and media studies.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Tito Vagni’s legacy is marked by his dedication to exploring the intersections of media, culture, and society. His future contributions are likely to build on his current research interests, further advancing our understanding of media’s role in contemporary society. As he continues to publish and engage with the academic community, his work will undoubtedly influence future research and policy in the field.

 

Publications 📚


  • 📰 A Matter of Style: Community Building between Seduction and Indirect Communication
    Author: Vagni, T.
    Journal: Social Sciences
    Year: 2024

  • 📰 Urban foodscapes and media horizons: Anew gastronomic experience
    Author: Vagni, T.
    Book: Cities, Capitalism and the Politics of Sensibilities
    Year: 2021

  • 📰 Public service broadcasting and cultural policies of disability. Models of a consolatory imaginary | Servizio pubblico televisivo e politiche culturali della disabilità. Modelli di un immaginario consolatorio
    Author: Vagni, T.
    Journal: Salute e Societa
    Year: 2020

  • 📰 Lo-fi politics. Branding the leader through an amateur style of communication | Lo-fi politics. Il brand del politico e lo stile amatoriale in «bassa fedeltà»
    Authors: Barile, N., Vagni, T.
    Journal: Comunicazione Politica
    Year: 2019

  • 📰 Consumption and communication. Media research from a culturological perspective | Consommation et communication. La recherche sur les médias dans une perspective culturologique
    Author: Vagni, T.
    Journal: Societes
    Year: 2017

 

Luanying Li | Social Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Ms. Luanying Li | Social Sciences | Editorial Board Member

University of Macau | Macau

Author Profile

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Luanying Li embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in "The Art of Announcing and Anchoring Broadcasting and TV" from Liaoning University in China. Her impressive academic performance, ranking first in her class with an overall grade of 90.72/100, laid the foundation for her subsequent achievements in the field of communication and media arts.

Professional Endeavors

With a Master's degree in Media Arts from Communication University of China and a subsequent Master's in International Television Industries from Royal Holloway, University of London, Ms. Luanying Li demonstrated a global perspective and comprehensive understanding of media arts and culture. Her academic pursuits extended to Stanford University, where she participated in the China Future Creative Class exchange program, showcasing her commitment to interdisciplinary learning.

Contributions and Research Focus

Ms. Luanying Li has made significant contributions to the field of communication through her research on topics such as "Multimodal Social Semiotics," "Journalism and Communication," "Social Media," and "Live Streaming Studies." Her publications, including articles on the impact of COVID-19 on online help-seeking posts and a comparative analysis of Chinese and American economic news discourse, reflect her expertise in critical discourse analysis and media culture studies.

Accolades and Recognition

Acknowledging her scholarly achievements, Ms. Luanying Li received the prestigious "Second-Class Scholarship" and "First-Class Scholarship" from Communication University of China. Her participation in academic conferences, including presentations in Australia and Thailand, highlights her recognition in the international academic community.

Impact and Influence

Ms. Luanying Li's research on male beauty vloggers on Chinese social media and her exploration of economic news discourses showcase her commitment to understanding and influencing media trends. Her role as an Editorial Board Member demonstrates her active engagement in shaping the discourse and direction of academic publications.

Legacy and Future Contributions

With a rich background in media arts, communication, and cultural studies, Ms. Luanying Li has laid the groundwork for a promising academic career. Her involvement in major research projects and international forums positions her as a thought leader in the evolving landscape of media and communication. As she continues her Ph.D. studies at the University of Macau, her legacy is likely to include further impactful research and contributions to the academic community.

Notable Publications

Contrasting semantic and sentimental features between Chinese and American economic news discourse in the epidemic era: A corpus-based critical discourse analysis 2023 (1)

What We Ask about When We Ask about Quarantine? Content and Sentiment Analysis on Online Help-Seeking Posts during COVID-19 on a Q&A Platform in China 2022

 

 

 

David Macdonald | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. David Macdonald | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

International Drugs and Development Advisor | United Kingdom

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

David Macdonald's academic journey is marked by a diverse engagement with various academic, governmental, and non-governmental organizations. His foray began with extensive work in research, rapid situational assessments, project management, and evaluation. He honed skills in institutional strengthening, capacity building, strategy development, and specialized in harm reduction, HIV/AIDS prevention, and international development.

Professional Endeavors

Over two decades, Macdonald garnered overseas experience in development, criminal justice, and drug-related issues across diverse regions including Africa, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South/Southeast Asia. His work spanned engagement with marginalized social groups—maximum security prisoners, refugees, indigenous peoples, sex workers, and people who inject drugs (PWID).

Contributions and Research Focus

His expertise encompasses applying 'best practice' in project design and implementation, including project cycle management, monitoring and evaluation, gender analysis, and stakeholder engagement across various countries and institutional settings. Macdonald reviewed and appraised drug prevention, treatment, and aftercare programs, providing advisory services and technical support for harm reduction programs, particularly targeting PWID and HIV/AIDS prevention in Central Asia.

Accolades and Recognition

Macdonald boasts a rich portfolio of research, evaluation, and assessment skills, from questionnaire design to ethnographic research techniques and conducting focus group discussions and interviews. He's undertaken rapid situational assessments and action research on drug use/HIV/AIDS across multiple communities worldwide, including Afghanistan, Botswana, Comoros, Liberia, Maldives, Pakistan, Thailand, and Uganda.

Impact and Influence

Notably, Macdonald spent five years managing the UNODC's Demand Reduction Afghanistan program, overseeing significant budgets and national staff. He's facilitated and assessed training modules and workshops on drug demand reduction, harm reduction, criminal justice, and HIV/AIDS prevention, impacting healthcare, social work, criminal justice, and NGO sectors.

Legacy and Future Contributions

His extensive publication portfolio, encompassing books, journal articles, research, and consultancy reports on drug use, harm reduction, HIV/AIDS, crime, and corruption, underscores his contributions. Macdonald's presentations at international meetings, conferences, seminars, and workshops worldwide further attest to his influence and commitment to addressing critical issues in drug-related challenges, public health, and social justice. His legacy lies in the comprehensive impact on policy, practice, and community interventions aimed at mitigating the impacts of drug abuse and related issues globally.

Notable Publications

Blooming flowers and false prophets: the dynamics of opium cultivation and production in Afghanistan under the Taliban 2005 (8)

Six rapid assessments of alcohol and other substance use in populations displaced by conflict 2011 (126)

Opiate use, treatment, and harm reduction in Afghanistan: Recent changes and future directions 2012 (25)