Thendo Mafuna | Genomics | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Thendo Mafuna | Genomics | Young Scientist Award

Senior Lecturer | University of Johannesburg | South Africa

Dr. Thendo Mafuna is a bioinformatics researcher whose work integrates antimicrobial resistance surveillance, pathogen genomics, and transcriptomics to address global health and food safety challenges. His academic foundation in bioinformatics, microbiology, and genomics underpins his expertise in developing computational pipelines, performing next-generation sequencing, and conducting large-scale genomic and metagenomic analyses. Dr. Mafuna’s research focuses on comparative genomics, microbial community profiling, and resistome characterization, contributing to understanding the evolution, virulence, and resistance mechanisms of bacterial pathogens across environmental and food-related systems. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in leading journals such as Frontiers in Microbiology, Scientific Reports, Genomics, and Microorganisms, advancing knowledge in molecular epidemiology and microbial genomics. In addition to his active research, he mentors postgraduate students and contributes to scientific committees that promote innovation in bioinformatics and microbial genomics. His achievements include multiple research grants and fellowships from the National Research Foundation and recognition for advancing genomics-based surveillance frameworks in Africa. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and computational innovation, Dr. Mafuna continues to make significant contributions to bioinformatics and microbial genomics research aimed at improving public health outcomes. His scientific influence is reflected in his 135 citations, 14 published documents, and an h-index of 7, demonstrating his growing impact within the global research community.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID  

Mafuna, T., Matle, I., Magwedere, K., Pierneef, R. E., & Reva, O. N. (2021). Whole genome-based characterization of Listeria monocytogenes isolates recovered from the food chain in South Africa. Frontiers in Microbiology, 12, 669287.

Matle, I., Mafuna, T., Madoroba, E., Mbatha, K. R., Magwedere, K., & Pierneef, R. (2020). Population structure of non-ST6 Listeria monocytogenes isolated in the red meat and poultry value chain in South Africa. Microorganisms, 8(8), 1152.

Mafuna, T., Matle, I., Magwedere, K., Pierneef, R. E., & Reva, O. N. (2022). Comparative genomics of Listeria species recovered from meat and food processing facilities. Microbiology Spectrum, 10(5), e01189-22.

Mafuna, T., Soma, P., Tsotetsi-Khambule, A. M., Hefer, C. A., Muchadeyi, F. C., & others. (2021). Bacterial profiling of Haemonchus contortus gut microbiome infecting Dohne Merino sheep in South Africa. Scientific Reports, 11(1), 5905.

Mmotla, K., Sibanyoni, N. R., Allie, F., Sitole, L., Mafuna, T., Mashabela, M. D., & others. (2025). Exploring the intricacies of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria interactions: An omics review. Annals of Microbiology, 75(1), 5.

Dr. Thendo Mafuna advances food safety and public health through genomic surveillance of foodborne pathogens. His research deciphers microbial evolution, virulence, and antimicrobial resistance within Africa’s food systems, providing critical insights into pathogen behavior and transmission. By integrating bioinformatics and comparative genomics, he drives innovation in microbial monitoring, outbreak prevention, and sustainable food security across the region.

Stephen Edward | Zoonotic Disease Modeling | Best Researcher Award

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Dr.Stephen Edward | Zoonotic Disease Modeling | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer | The University of Dodoma | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Stephen Edward Mwaijande is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Dodoma, Tanzania, whose research exemplifies the integration of biology, epidemiology, and mathematical modeling to address the challenges of infectious and zoonotic diseases. His primary focus on biomathematical modeling enhances understanding of disease transmission dynamics, control strategies, and environmental interactions that influence infection spread across human and animal populations. Through his innovative and data-driven approach, Dr. Mwaijande has developed predictive models for diseases such as rabies, giardiasis, paragonimiasis, hepatitis, and banana bunchy top virus, offering valuable insights for improving prevention, diagnosis, and management. His interdisciplinary work bridges theory and application, combining ecological and epidemiological data to design effective surveillance systems and intervention frameworks that support sustainable disease control. Dr. Mwaijande’s research is widely recognized, with publications in prestigious international journals under leading publishers including Elsevier, Springer, Wiley, and Nature, underscoring his global scientific impact. Alongside his scholarly contributions, he actively mentors postgraduate students, collaborates on multi-institutional projects, and serves as a peer reviewer for international journals, reflecting his commitment to academic leadership and scientific advancement. His ongoing efforts continue to strengthen the integration of computational biology and public health research, promoting innovative solutions that safeguard biodiversity, enhance ecosystem resilience, and improve community health outcomes in Tanzania and beyond.

Profiles : ORCID | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Edward, S. (2025). Caputo approach to transmission dynamics of paragonimiasis in humans, snails, and crustaceans. Partial Differential Equations in Applied Mathematics, 5(10), 101313.

Edward, S., & Shaban, N. (2025). Deterministic compartmental model for optimal control strategies of giardiasis infection with saturating incidence and environmental dynamics. Healthcare Analytics, 6(6), 100383.

Ndendya, J. Z., Edward, S., Sambo, M., & Deepali. (2025). A Caputo fractional-order model for dog rabies transmission with vaccination: A case study of Ulanga District, Tanzania. Abstract and Applied Analysis, 2025, 6679795.

Edward, S. (2024). On the role of vaccination, health education, and hygiene compliance in the elimination and control of Hepatitis A virus: An optimal control approach. Informatics in Medicine Unlocked, 44, 101501.

Edward, S. (2024, May). A fractional order model for the transmission dynamics of shigellosis. Heliyon, 10(5), e31242.

Stephen Edward’s research advances the understanding and control of infectious diseases through innovative modeling of transmission dynamics and intervention strategies. His work supports evidence-based public health decisions, contributing to improved disease prevention, management, and community well-being worldwide.

Estelle Crochelet | Biodiversity and conservation | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Estelle Crochelet | Biodiversity and conservation | Best Researcher Award 

Scientific Director | University of Reunion Island | Reunion 

Dr. Estelle Crochelet’s research focuses on marine ecology, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable management of tropical and island ecosystems in the Western Indian Ocean. As a Marine Ecologist at the Biodiversity Research Agency of Réunion Island (ARBRE), she integrates field ecology, molecular analysis, and spatial modeling to study coral reef systems, mesophotic ecosystems, and species connectivity. Her pioneering application of environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques has transformed biodiversity monitoring by enabling the detection of rare and cryptic species such as sharks and rays, advancing ecosystem-based management and conservation planning. Through leadership roles in major initiatives including the IRRAE, MAEO, and CONCILIER programs, Dr. Crochelet has contributed to integrated coral reef management, linking ecological research with territorial planning and policy implementation. Her interdisciplinary work, combining marine biology, remote sensing, and ecological modeling, has generated valuable insights into habitat connectivity, reef resilience, and marine spatial planning. Collaborating with organizations such as IUCN, IRD, and the French Biodiversity Office, she has played a vital role in shaping regional conservation strategies and advancing scientific understanding of marine ecosystems. Widely published in prestigious journals such as Nature, Science, Environmental DNA, and Deep Sea Research, Dr. Crochelet’s work has global relevance, addressing the challenges of biodiversity loss and climate impacts on marine environments. Alongside her scientific achievements, she mentors emerging researchers, leads citizen science initiatives, and promotes public awareness of ocean conservation. A certified professional diver, rebreather user, and drone pilot, she combines technical field expertise with innovative research approaches, making significant contributions to sustainable marine governance and biodiversity preservation in the Southwestern Indian Ocean.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Crochelet, E., Desbonnes, O., Inçaby, L., Nazurally, N., Stevens, G., van Beuningen, D., Gadenne, J., Morand, G., Bertrand, G., & Nikolic, N. (2025). Biodiversity and conservation of elasmobranchs in the Mascarene Islands: Policy implementation and protection strategies. Ocean & Coastal Management, 262, 107921.

Crochelet, E., Barrier, N., Andrello, M., Marsac, F., Spadone, A., & Lett, C. (2020). Connectivity between seamounts and coastal ecosystems in the Southwestern Indian Ocean. Deep-Sea Research Part II: Topical Studies in Oceanography, 180, 104774.

Bourjon, P., Crochelet, E., & Fricke, R. (2019). First record of the large caerulean damselfish, Pomacentrus caeruleopunctatus (Actinopterygii: Perciformes: Pomacentridae), from Réunion Island, southwest Indian Ocean. Acta Ichthyologica et Piscatoria, 49(3), 293–297.

Queiroz, N., Humphries, N. E., Couto, A., Vedor, M., da Costa, I., Sequeira, A. M. M., Mucientes, G., Santos, A. M., Abascal, F. J., Abercrombie, D. L., et al. (2019). Global spatial risk assessment of sharks under the footprint of fisheries. Nature, 572(7770), 461–466.

Soria, M., Heithaus, M. R., Blaison, A., Crochelet, E., Forget, F., & Chabanet, P. (2019). Residency and spatial distribution of bull sharks Carcharhinus leucas in and around Réunion Island marine protected area. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 626, 85–97.

Dr. Estelle Crochelet’s research advances global marine conservation through innovative studies on elasmobranch ecology, connectivity, and policy implementation across the Mascarene and Western Indian Ocean. Her work bridges ecological modeling, spatial management, and biodiversity protection—informing sustainable fisheries, strengthening marine protected areas, and shaping evidence-based conservation strategies that safeguard ocean ecosystems and coastal livelihoods worldwide.

Tanmay Sanyal | Biodiversity and Conservation | Zoology Honour Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Tanmay Sanyal | Biodiversity and Conservation | Zoology Honour Award

Assistant Professor | Krishnagar Government College | India 

Dr. Tanmay Sanyal’s research integrates zoology, ecology, and environmental science, with a strong emphasis on Fish and Fisheries, Aquatic Toxicology, Limnology, and Biodiversity Conservation. His investigations into the bioaccumulation of heavy metals, particularly chromium, in aquatic organisms have significantly advanced understanding of the ecological and physiological effects of industrial pollutants on freshwater ecosystems. Through his studies, he has explored mechanisms of toxicity, metabolic alterations, and adaptive responses in aquatic fauna, offering critical insights into ecosystem resilience and pollution management. Beyond toxicology, his research encompasses ecological monitoring, water quality assessment, and the sustainable management of fishery resources. Dr. Sanyal’s interdisciplinary approach bridges environmental chemistry, zoology, and sustainability studies, addressing global challenges related to water pollution, biodiversity loss, and environmental health while aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on clean water, life below water, and sustainable communities. He has published extensively in high-impact international journals, including Computers in Biology and Medicine, Journal of Advanced Research, and Human and Ecological Risk Assessment, along with numerous book chapters on environmental management and sustainable development. His scholarly contributions have deepened scientific understanding of aquatic ecosystems, informed environmental policy, and supported conservation efforts. Through his research, Dr. Sanyal continues to promote environmental stewardship, advocating for evidence-based strategies to mitigate pollution, enhance sustainability, and preserve aquatic biodiversity for future generations.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Hui, N., Sanyal, T., & Das, R. (2024). A brief review on solar photovoltaic: A key to sustainable development. In Book of Environmental Sustainability and Development (Chapter 8).

Singh, D., Amitabh, A., Kumar, A., Maurya, A. K., & Naveen, J. (2024). Design and performance evaluation of pyramid, hexagonal and conical forms as solar panels. In Advances in Sustainable Energy Systems (pp. xx–xx). Springer.

Sharma, H. R., Gupta, R. K., Rastogi, P., Singh, N., & Naveen, J. (2024). Design, analysis, and optimization of 2D 3-blade Savonius vertical axis wind turbine. In Advances in Sustainable Energy Systems (pp. xx–xx). Springer.

Dutta, S., Mukherjee, P., Mitra, A., Guha, B., Ganguly, B. B., & Sanyal, T. (2024). Diaphonization: Enhancing efforts toward achieving SDGs 10, 14, and 15. In Book of Environmental Sustainability and Development (Chapter 13).

Das, S. K., Sen, K., Sanyal, T., Saha, A., & Madhu, N. R. (2024). Flavonoids: A promising neuroprotectant and its salutary effects on age-related neurodegenerative disorders. In Neuroprotective Phytochemicals: Advances and Perspectives (pp. xx–xx). Springer.

Dr. Tanmay Sanyal’s research bridges environmental science, zoology, and sustainable technology, focusing on renewable energy, pollution mitigation, and aquatic ecosystem conservation. His interdisciplinary work advances sustainability, environmental resilience, and human well-being in line with the UN SDGs.

Imad Addin Almasri | Research Methodology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Imad Addin Almasri | Research Methodology | Best Researcher Award 

Researcher | Damascus University | Syria

Imad-Addin Almasri, PSM™, MSc, BSc, is a data-driven researcher and applied statistician whose work bridges economics, artificial intelligence, and social development research. Holding a Master’s in Quantitative Methods with a specialization in Applied Statistics from Damascus University, his academic research focuses on integrating deep learning, neural networks, and statistical modeling to develop predictive diagnostic models and enhance evidence-based decision-making. His professional research experience spans collaborations with leading international organizations, including the International Labour Organization, UNDP, UNICEF, and the Institut Européen de Coopération et de Développement, where he has contributed to large-scale studies in labor market dynamics, gender equality, skills profiling, and socio-economic recovery. As Co-founder and Advisory Board Member of Stemosis for Scientific Research, he has supported more than 500 research initiatives and co-supervised over 75 peer-reviewed publications, advancing scientific inquiry across multiple disciplines in Syria and the region. His expertise extends to designing and implementing national data collection frameworks, conducting complex statistical analyses, and visualizing development indicators using advanced analytics tools such as SPSS, Power BI, and AI-based modeling systems. A recipient of multiple Certificates of Scientific Excellence and international recognition for his contributions to applied research and sustainable development, Almasri continues to promote the use of data science for social progress. Through his leadership in research capacity-building and his contributions to applied analytics, he exemplifies the integration of academic rigor, innovation, and practical impact in advancing knowledge for inclusive and data-informed development.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Al‐Hallak, M. A. G., Kayem, M., Khatib, R., Shakoul, R., Martini, Z. A., Martini, N., Hanna, M., Almasri, I.-A., & Aljoujou, A. (2025, October). The importance of integrating herbal medicine into dental education: A cross‐sectional study of dental students’ knowledge and attitudes. Journal of Dental Education.

2. Tolibah, Y. A., Bshara, N., Aljabban, O., Abbara, M. T., Alhaji, M., Almasri, I.-A., & Baghdadi, Z. D. (2025, October 21). Randomized trial of bioceramic apical barrier methods in necrotic immature incisors: Effects on pain, extrusion, and procedure duration. Children.

3. Tolibah, Y. A., Bshara, N., Aljabban, O., Abbara, M. T., Alhaji, M., Almasri, I.-A., & Baghdadi, Z. D. (2025, September 24). Randomized trial of bioceramic apical barrier methods in necrotic immature incisors: Effects on pain, extrusion, and procedure duration. Preprint.

4. Bakdounes, D., Dughly, R., Almasri, I.-A., Martini, N., Hanna, M., Albelal, D., & Al bardan, H. (2025, May). High prevalence of uncontrolled asthma and its association with obesity and GERD‐related symptoms in Syria: A multicenter cross‐sectional study. Health Science Reports.

5. Al-duais, W. A. M., Martini, N., Hanna, M., Almasri, I.-A., & Dua, Z. (2025, April 23). Efficacy and safety of adding PD-1 inhibitors to standard therapies in advanced and recurrent endometrial cancer: A single-center retrospective case-control study. Preprint.

Li Shi | Entomology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Li Shi | Entomology | Best Researcher Award 

Professor | Inner Mongolia Agricultural University | China

Professor Li Shi is a distinguished entomologist at the College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, specializing in insect systematics, phylogeny, and biodiversity conservation. She holds a Ph.D. in Agriculture and Biotechnology, an M.S. in Life Sciences, and a B.A. in Agronomy, with extensive academic training in systematic entomology. Her professional journey includes significant research roles in systematic and evolutionary entomology laboratories, postdoctoral work in the United States on agromyzid leaf-miner identification, and visiting scholar appointments enhancing global expertise in Diptera taxonomy. She has led and contributed to national and international research grants on insect diversity, freshwater entomofauna, pest management, and molecular systematics, demonstrating strong leadership in scientific investigation and project coordination. Her research focuses on the taxonomy and phylogenetics of Lauxaniidae and Agromyzidae, pollinator insect diversity, and ecological monitoring, resulting in numerous publications in reputed journals, including extensive species revisions, biodiversity surveys, and taxonomic keys. She has authored new species descriptions, contributed to entomological fauna documentation, and developed online identification tools. Recognized for her scholarly impact, she has received competitive research funding, participated in national scientific initiatives, and provided academic mentorship through teaching core entomology courses. Her professional contributions extend to peer-review activities, academic society involvement, and advancing entomological knowledge, positioning her as a leading figure in insect conservation and systematic taxonomy.

Profile : ORCID

Featured Publications

Liu, Q., Shi, L., Jin, S., Zheng, X., Hu, J., Huang, Z., Ma, R., Liu, Q. J., Fu, X., Wang, M., et al. (2025). Diversity of forest flies and their responses to environmental changes in eastern Inner Mongolia. Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity. Advance online publication.

Shi, L., Wang, Z., Ma, R., Wang, Y., & Yang, Y. (2025). A survey of the Calyptratae (Diptera) in the Northern Primitive Forest Region of Greater Khingan Mountains, Inner Mongolia with a checklist of fifty-five species. Zootaxa.

Shi, L., Liu, M., & Hu, Z.-K. (2020). A new species of the genus Noeetomima Enderlein (Diptera, Lauxaniidae) from Guizhou, China with a key to worldwide species. ZooKeys, 1000, 75–88.

Shi, L., Yang, D., & Gaimari, S. D. (2011). Four new species from China and Southeast Asia (Diptera, Lauxaniidae, Homoneurinae). Revue suisse de zoologie.

Shi, L., Yang, D., & Gaimari, S. D. (2011). Four new species from China and Southeast Asia (Diptera, Lauxaniidae, Homoneurinae). Revue suisse de zoologie.

Junqiang Wang | Grassland Ecology | Excellence in Innovation Award

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Mr. Junqiang Wang | Grassland Ecology | Excellence in Innovation Award

Professor | China West Normal University | China

Professor Wang Junqiang, Ph.D., is a leading expert in Soil Ecology and Grassland Ecology, currently serving as a professor and master’s supervisor at China West Normal University and a part-time graduate supervisor at Xichang University. He obtained his Ph.D. in Ecology from the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Dr. Wang has led multiple high-impact research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, provincial science foundations, and regional R&D programs, addressing critical issues such as soil carbon stability, freeze-thaw processes, tillage systems, and grassland ecological restoration. With a growing academic influence reflected in 17 published documents, 58 citations, and an h-index of 4, he has contributed significantly to advancing sustainable land use and ecosystem resilience, with publications in internationally recognized journals including Plant and Soil, CATENA, and Field Crops Research. He is a recognized high-level flexible talent in the Tibet Autonomous Region, a recipient of the “Jialing River Talent Project,” and is supported by the Central Government’s “Three Regions” Talent Support Program. Dr. Wang also serves as a reviewer for the CSCIED Scientific Core Evaluation Database, further affirming his peer recognition and professional standing. His research leadership, commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists exemplify excellence in ecological research and academic service.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Tillage effect on soil N uptake and utilization by the changes of chiA and aprA gene under parallel nitrogen application. (2026). European Journal of Agronomy.

2. Shi, H., …, Qiu, X. (2025, October). Contrasting impacts of grassland restoration methods on soil greenhouse gases emissions under warming conditions in Northern Tibet. Catena, 258.

3. Yan, S., …, He, J. (2025, June 20). Differences along an erosion gradient in alpine meadow plant community diversity and factors influencing diversity. Acta Prataculturae Sinica, 34(6).

María del Carmen Navarro Maldonado | Animal Reproductive Biology | Wildlife Conservation Award

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Dr.María del Carmen Navarro Maldonado | Animal Reproductive Biology | Wildlife Conservation Award

Research Professor | Metropolitan Autonomous University | Mexico

Dr. María del Carmen Navarro Maldonado is a Full-Time Professor at the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Iztapalapa (UAM-I), specializing in Animal Reproduction within the Department of Biology of Reproduction. She holds a Doctorate in Veterinary Sciences with honors from UNAM, a Master’s in Animal Production (Ovines and Caprines) from FES-Cuautitlán, and a Bachelor’s in Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics from UAM-Xochimilco, where she was awarded the Medal of Merit. With extensive academic experience across multiple institutions in Mexico and Latin America, she has contributed to undergraduate and postgraduate education in Veterinary Medicine, Biology, Biotechnology, and Reproductive Biology. Her research focuses on Assisted Reproductive Biotechnologies and Embryonic Development (in vivo and in vitro), including pioneering work in embryo cloning of domestic and wild species. She has led major projects such as the preservation of the bighorn sheep in collaboration with national zoological and environmental authorities, and her efforts culminated in a patent on cloning technologies for species conservation. As a former Head of Department and Coordinator of Animal Production programs, she led curriculum reforms and academic evaluations. Dr. Navarro has authored nine scientific documents with 29 citations by 26 sources and holds an h-index of 4. She has also authored book chapters and patents, and served as a reviewer for international journals. She is a Level 1 member of the Mexican National System of Researchers (SNI) and has received funding from national agencies including CONAHCyT, PRODEP, and the UAM. Her collaborations span universities in Mexico, Chile, and Australia, advancing reproductive biotechnology for conservation and livestock productivity.

Profiles : Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Verduzco, J. M. R., Herrera-Camacho, J., & Cajero-Juárez, M. (2009). Evaluación de dos medios de maduración in vitro para la producción de embriones ovinos. Tropical and Subtropical Agroecosystems, 10(1), 95–99.

Vázquez-Avendaño, J. R., Ambríz-García, D. A., Cortez-Romero, C., & otros. (2022). Current state of the efficiency of sheep embryo production through somatic cell nuclear transfer. Small Ruminant Research, 212, 106702.

González-Garzón, A. C., Ramón-Ugalde, J. P., Ambríz-García, D. A., & otros. (2023). Resveratrol reduces ROS by increasing GSH in vitrified sheep embryos. Animals, 13(23), 3602.

Velázquez-Morales, J. V., Santillán-Flores, M. A., Gallegos-Sánchez, J., & otros. (2019). Detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in reproductive tissue and semen of naturally infected rams. Animal Reproduction, 16(4), 930–937.

Soberano-Martínez, A., Bravo-Patiño, A., Olivo-Zepeda, I., Toscano-Torres, I., & otros. (2011). Fertilización de ovocitos caprinos madurados en dos medios de cultivo. Tropical and Subtropical Agroecosystems, 14(1), 301–307.

Joni Delanoeije | Feline Behavior | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Joni Delanoeije | Feline Behavior | Best Researcher Award

Post-Doctoral Researcher | Katholieke University of Leuven | Belgium

Dr. Joni Delanoeije is a postdoctoral researcher and lecturer in Work and Organisational Studies at KU Leuven and the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), specializing in organizational psychology, ethology, and human-animal interaction. She holds a PhD in Business Economics from KU Leuven, an MSc in Psychology with a focus on Theory and Research, and postgraduate certifications in Animal Behavior and Dog Assisted Interventions. Her interdisciplinary expertise bridges psychology, ethology, and anthrozoology, with a research agenda centered on biophilic design, sustainable multispecies interactions, and employee well-being in both natural and digitized environments. Dr. Delanoeije has led and secured competitive research grants for pioneering projects on dogs in (home-)workplaces and campus settings, collaborating internationally with institutions across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. She has published in top-tier journals and her work has received widespread media coverage. She serves as Lead of Policy and Research Standards on the board of IAHAIO and contributes as an expert to various advisory bodies, including policy committees and academic networks. Her achievements have earned her numerous honors, such as keynote invitations, best paper awards, editorial recognitions, and placements among the most influential scholars in her field. A certified animal behavior consultant and educator, she integrates academic excellence with applied impact, advancing science-based approaches to human-animal well-being and sustainable work practices.

Profiles: ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Delanoeije, J., Gutu, I., Engels, M., & Janssens, M. (2025). “Pet effect” patterns: Dynamics of animal presence and caregiver affect across (tele)work and non-work contexts. PLOS ONE, 20(2), e0319009.

2. Delanoeije, J., Moons, C. P. H., Peeters, E. H. K. A., & Pendry, P. (2024). Behavioural profile differences between cats in animal-assisted services (AAS) and non-AAS cats using the Fe-BARQ in Flanders. Animals, 15(1), 33.

3. Delanoeije, J., & Verbruggen, M. (2024). Biophilia in the home–workplace: Integrating dog caregiving and outdoor access to explain teleworkers’ daily physical activity, loneliness, and job performance. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 29(3), 250–265.

4. Delanoeije, J., & Deschodt, M. (2024). Research gaps concerning human-animal interactions and animal-assisted services in nursing homes. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 25(6), 834–838

5. Darouei, M., Delanoeije, J., & Verbruggen, M. (2024). When daily home-to-work transitions are not all bad: A multi-study design on the role of appraisals. Work & Stress, 38(1), 1–22.

Dušica Ilić | Plant Material | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Dušica Ilić | Plant Material | Women Researcher Award

Research Associate | University of Niš | Serbia

Dr. Dušica Ilić is a distinguished Research Associate in the field of technical and technological sciences, affiliated with the Faculty of Technology in Leskovac, University of Niš. She holds a PhD in Technical and Technological Sciences, earned through an accelerated study program, with a specialization in the synthesis and pharmacological profiling of bioactive compounds. Dr. Ilić’s academic foundation includes a graduate degree in wastewater treatment technologies and early training as a medical technician, demonstrating a multidisciplinary approach to science. Her professional experience spans leading roles in academic and industrial research, including contributions to national projects on pharmaceutical-cosmetic formulations, bioactive plant compounds, wastewater purification, and ICT applications in medicine and energy. She has served as a technologist, scientific associate, and educator, contributing to teaching, mentoring, and practical training at multiple institutions, including the Electronic Faculty in Niš and the Alfatec Research Center. Her research focuses on organic synthesis, phytopharmaceuticals, drug delivery systems, and the development of environmentally and clinically relevant technologies. Dr. Ilić has authored numerous scientific publications, contributed a book chapter, and developed innovative solutions with recognized national impact. A recipient of awards for academic excellence and human rights engagement, she is certified in English language proficiency, proficient in scientific computing tools, and holds membership in the Serbian Chemical Society. Her work is marked by a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, scientific rigor, and the practical application of research in both academic and industrial settings. She has 346 citations across 19 documents and holds an h-index of 11.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Ilić, D. P., Troter, Z. D., Stanojević, S. J., Cvetković, J. D., & Ristić, S. I. (2025). Intensified microwave-assisted hydrodistillation produces trans-anethole-rich fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) fruit essential oil. Chemical Industry and Chemical Engineering Quarterly.

2. Maletin, A., Ristić, I., Nešić, A., Knežević, M. J., Koprivica, D. Đ., Cakić, S., Ilić, D., Milekić, B., Puškar, T., & Pilić, B. (2023). Development of light-polymerized dental composite resin reinforced with electrospun polyamide layers. Polymers, 15(12), 2598.

3. Ilić, D., & Vukotić, D. (2023, November 13). Innovative extraction technologies. Trends in Horticulture, 6(2).

4. Ilić, D. P., Troter, Z. D., Ristić, I. C., Konstantinović, S. S., Stanojević, L. P., & Danilović, B. R. (2023, May 17). New technical solution (not commercialized). MN

5. Илић, Д. П., Тротер, Д. З., Ристић, И. С., Константиновић, С. С., Станојевић, Ј. С., Станојевић, Љ. П., & Даниловић, Б. Р. (2023, May 17). Technological process for the isolation of essential oil with enhanced antimicrobial activity from ground fennel fruit (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) [Technical standard]. Technological Faculty Leskovac; Faculty of Electronic Engineering Niš; Technological Faculty Novi Sad.