Zhongjun Yan | Energy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Published on 23/08/202523/08/2025 by Research Hypothesis

Dr. Zhongjun Yan | Energy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhongjun Yan | Energy and Sustainability | Associate Professor | Hunan University of Humanities Science and Technology | China

Dr. Zhongjun Yan is a distinguished scholar and lecturer at the School of Energy and Electrical Engineering, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology. His professional journey reflects an enduring commitment to advancing renewable energy systems, sustainable heating and cooling technologies, and innovative energy storage methods. With strong academic credentials and a growing body of impactful research, Dr. Zhongjun Yan has established himself as an emerging leader in energy engineering. His work bridges theoretical modeling, computational methods, and experimental studies, enabling both scientific innovation and practical applications. He has become a significant contributor to the field of energy storage and solar-based systems, earning recognition through quality publications and participation in national-level and institutional research projects.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Zhongjun Yan earned his doctoral degree in Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning Engineering from Hunan University, where his research was focused on the unconstrained melting process of phase change materials and the enhancement of heat transfer in thermal storage systems. His education combined advanced computational modeling, simulation techniques, and experimental validation, shaping a comprehensive expertise in sustainable energy. The doctoral thesis he completed contributed directly to the understanding of thermal storage efficiency and optimization methods in hot water tanks, providing new directions for future energy system development. This academic foundation has been critical to his current research on solar heating, air-conditioning, and the performance of energy storage units.

Experience

In his role as a lecturer, Dr. Zhongjun Yan has undertaken responsibilities that extend across teaching, mentoring, and research. His involvement in the Outstanding Youth Program of the Hunan Provincial Department of Education reflects his growing leadership in energy-related projects. He has contributed to the design and execution of research focusing on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), unconstrained melting phenomena, and heat transfer enhancement. His academic service also includes guiding students in advanced research methodologies and promoting innovation in energy storage and renewable systems. Moreover, Dr. Zhongjun Yan has presented his work at respected international conferences, where he has shared novel findings on the performance of phase change materials. Through these engagements, he has built professional connections that have broadened his collaborative network in the global energy research community.

Research Interest

Dr. Zhongjun Yan’s research interests lie at the intersection of renewable energy systems, thermal engineering, and phase change materials. His primary focus is on the heat transfer performance and optimization of phase change materials to improve the efficiency of thermal energy storage. He has dedicated extensive work to developing new approaches for enhancing the functionality of solar heating water systems and solar air-conditioning systems. Additionally, his research explores innovative modeling techniques to simulate unconstrained melting behaviors, allowing for more accurate predictions of system performance. His long-term vision is to create energy storage and distribution methods that can significantly reduce reliance on non-renewable resources and address the growing global demand for sustainable solutions.

Award

Dr. Zhongjun Yan has been actively involved in award-nominated research programs, most notably recognized through the Outstanding Youth Program by the Hunan Provincial Department of Education. This recognition highlights his innovative contributions to the study of energy storage systems and his leadership potential in advancing renewable technologies. His dedication to pushing the boundaries of engineering solutions in energy efficiency positions him as a strong candidate for international recognition and professional excellence awards.

Selected Publications

Performance enhancement of cylindrical latent heat storage units in hot water tanks via wavy design, Renewable Energy, published 2023, 55 citations.
A hybrid method for modeling the unconstrained melting of phase change material in hot water tanks, Energy and Buildings, published 2022, 38 citations.
Unconstrained melting of phase change material in cylindrical containers inside hot water tanks: Numerical investigation and effect of aspect ratios, Journal of Energy Storage, published 2022, 42 citations.
Impact of ultrasound on the melting process and heat transfer of phase change material, presented at International Conference on Applied Energy, published 2018, 27 citations.

Conclusion

Dr. Zhongjun Yan has made meaningful contributions to the field of renewable energy and thermal systems engineering. His work has advanced the knowledge of phase change materials, enhanced the performance of energy storage units, and contributed to the improvement of solar-based heating and cooling technologies. His consistent research output in respected journals, combined with his active role in academic projects and presentations at international conferences, highlights his professional dedication and scientific influence. Dr. Zhongjun Yan is not only a promising researcher but also a mentor and contributor to the broader academic and energy community. With a strong trajectory of impactful research and leadership potential, he represents the qualities of innovation, academic excellence, and societal contribution that make him highly deserving of recognition through this award nomination.

Andrés Robalino-López | Energy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Published on 09/05/202509/05/2025 by Research Hypothesis

Andrés Robalino-López | Energy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Andrés Robalino-López, Escuela Politécnica Nacional, Ecuador

Prof. Dr. Andrés Robalino-López is a distinguished academic and researcher at Escuela Politécnica Nacional (EPN), Ecuador, with an extensive background in environmental technologies, innovation, and complex systems. With a PhD earned cum laude from Universidad de Huelva, Spain, he combines academic rigor with practical leadership in research, innovation ecosystems, and entrepreneurship. As a key figure in Ecuador’s academic landscape, he serves as Deputy Dean, program coordinator, and research director. Internationally recognized through affiliations with MIT’s REAP program and the Academy of Sciences of Ecuador, his interdisciplinary contributions span environmental modeling, innovation management, and sustainable development. His research has informed policy, supported national and international projects worth over $500K, and been published in high-impact journals. His commitment to systemic transformation through science, education, and public policy underscores his eligibility for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile

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Orcid

Scopus

Education

Dr. Robalino-López earned his PhD in Environmental Technologies (cum laude) from Universidad de Huelva, Spain (2014), focusing on carbon emissions and sustainable development using system dynamics. He also holds Master’s degrees in Control Engineering (2012) and Environmental Technologies (2011) from the same university. He completed an MBA in Innovation (2022) from Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Ecuador. His engineering foundation was laid at Escuela Politécnica Nacional (2008), where he graduated cum laude in ICT. He has undertaken postgraduate studies in Energy and Environment at Glasgow Caledonian University, UK (2010) and served as a visiting researcher at Università Politecnica delle Marche, Italy (2013). His academic training is rounded out by executive programs at MIT, Berkeley, Taiwan, Brazil, and other global institutions, reflecting a strong and continuous commitment to interdisciplinary and global education.

Experience

Prof. Robalino has over a decade of academic and research leadership at Escuela Politécnica Nacional, serving as Full Professor, Deputy Dean, and Program Coordinator for multiple postgraduate and research initiatives. Internationally, he has represented Ecuador in MIT’s REAP program since 2017, leading entrepreneurship and innovation acceleration. His role as Horizon Europe – NCP for EIT and various positions such as Department Chair, Innovation Transfer Coordinator, and External Auditor (CES) underscores his systemic impact. His hands-on engagement in over a dozen research projects and development initiatives—totaling more than $500K in funding—spans renewable energy, sustainability, and technological innovation. He is also a sought-after lecturer, teaching in postgraduate and PhD programs, with additional experience in collaborative research in Spain and Italy. His leadership blends academic depth with policy-level engagement and international collaboration.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Robalino’s contributions have been widely recognized. He was awarded Best Researcher by CEDIA in 2023, following a nomination in 2022. In 2020, he was inducted into the Academy of Sciences of Ecuador, and in 2019, he received commendation from MIT-REAP for contributions to innovation ecosystems in Quito. At a national level, EPN awarded him the Research Production Award (2015). He is a recipient of numerous prestigious fellowships, including the SENESCYT Dissertation Fellowship (2011–2014), Fundación Carolina, AUIP, and Erasmus, supporting studies in Spain, the UK, and Italy. Additionally, he has secured research grants for international residencies and led funded projects across multiple organizations. These accolades highlight not only his academic excellence but also his real-world impact in sustainable development, innovation management, and capacity building in Ecuador and beyond.

Research Focus

Dr. Robalino’s research lies at the intersection of environmental systems, complex system dynamics, innovation ecosystems, and technology management. His doctoral work pioneered carbon emission modeling and environmental sustainability forecasting in Ecuador using system dynamics and decomposition analysis. He has expanded this approach to entrepreneurship ecosystems, policy scenario evaluation, and sustainability indicators. His recent projects focus on organizational innovation, carbon neutrality strategies, and macroeconomic-environmental modeling. He emphasizes the use of interdisciplinary frameworks to inform national energy and sustainability policies, as seen in collaborations with CEDIA, CONQUITO, and MIT-REAP. His work often combines quantitative modeling, foresight methodologies, and system thinking to guide public and private sector strategies. By integrating research with policy, Dr. Robalino creates actionable insights for sustainable and innovation-driven development across Latin America.

Publication Top Notes

Studying the relationship between economic growth, CO2 emissions, and the EKC in Venezuela (1980–2025)
Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews (2015), 215 citations
Groundbreaking analysis on the Environmental Kuznets Curve, combining system dynamics and econometrics.
System dynamics modeling for renewable energy and CO2 emissions: A case study of Ecuador
Energy for Sustainable Development (2014), 175 citations
Pioneering use of system dynamics to simulate energy policy impacts on emissions.
System dynamics modelling and the environmental Kuznets curve in Ecuador (1980–2025)
Energy Policy (2014), 104 citations
Introduced scenario-based carbon forecasting in Ecuadorian policy research.
CO2 emissions convergence among 10 South American countries. A study of Kaya components
Carbon Management (2016), 65 citations
Comparative study highlighting regional energy-environment dynamics.
Regional cooperation in environmental protection via e-government
Environment. Technologies. Resources (2017), 20 citations
Explores digital governance for sustainable development in Andean nations.

Muhamad Safuan Shamshol Bahri | Environmental Hypotheses | Research Hypothesis Excellence Award

Published on 12/03/202512/03/2025 by Research Hypothesis

Muhamad Safuan Shamshol Bahri | Environmental Hypotheses | Research Hypothesis Excellence Award

Mr Muhamad Safuan Shamshol Bahri, Malaysia Institute of Transport, MITRANS, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Malaysia

Dr. Muhamad Safuan Shamshol Bahri is a distinguished researcher in transport and logistics, specializing in sustainable port operations 🌿⚓. Currently pursuing his PhD at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), he has made significant contributions to environmental sustainability in maritime logistics. His expertise lies in performance measurement, green port policies, and decision-making frameworks 📊🌍. A lecturer and former quality engineer, he has received multiple gold awards for his research on intelligent decision-making in ports 🥇🔬. As an active member of TAM and MSORSM, Dr. Bahri continues to shape the future of sustainable maritime operations through impactful research, innovation, and industry collaboration 🚢💡.

Publication Profile

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Education

Mr. Muhamad Safuan Shamshol Bahri is a dedicated researcher pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Transport and Logistics at Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam (2022 – Present) 📚⚙️. He previously earned a Master of Science (MSc) in Logistics and Transportation from the same university (2021 – 2022) 🎓✅, graduating on time. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Naval Architecture and Offshore Engineering (Hons.) from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai (2015 – 2019) ⛵, where he achieved a commendable CGPA of 3.42/4.00. His expertise lies in maritime engineering, logistics, and transportation, contributing to advancements in these fields. 🚢📦

Experience

Mr. Muhamad Safuan Shamshol Bahri is an experienced educator and engineer with a strong background in maritime business, logistics, and quality management. As a Lecturer at Peninsula College (Northern) in Georgetown (2021-2022) 📖, he taught maritime business and logistics management 🚢, designed curricula, and guided student projects 📚. Previously, he worked as a Quality Engineer at JTEKT Automotive Malaysia Sdn Bhd (2019-2021) 🏭, ensuring product compliance with customer specifications 📋. His role involved conducting root cause failure analysis ⚙️, implementing preventive measures, and managing inspection reports and quality documentation ✅. His expertise bridges both academia and industry, contributing to innovation and excellence.

Awards & Honors

Mr. Muhamad Safuan Shamshol Bahri has demonstrated excellence in maritime logistics and sustainable port innovation through multiple prestigious awards. He earned the Gold Award for An Ingenious Priority Determination for Sustainable Port (AI_DSP) at IBMVIC 2024 🏅 and the Bronze Medal for the same project at IIDEX 2024 🥉. His expertise was further recognized with two Gold Awards 🥇 for An Intelligent MCDM Performance Measurement for Maritime Logistics (IMPerMAL) at VMIIE 2022 and the 4th Virtual International Breakthrough IID Exhibition 2022. His contributions continue to enhance decision-making and performance measurement in the maritime industry. 🚢⚓

Research Interest

Muhamad Safuan Shamshol Bahri is a dedicated researcher specializing in Management Science and Operations Research, with a focus on performance measurement and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) 📊📈. His expertise extends to Multicriteria Decision Making (MCDM), where he applies advanced analytical methods to optimize decision-making processes 🤖⚙️. With a strong academic and research background, he contributes to the development of innovative frameworks that enhance efficiency and effectiveness in various industries 🏢💡. His work plays a crucial role in improving decision support systems, ensuring that organizations can achieve optimal performance through data-driven strategies 📉✅.

Research Focus

Dr. Muhamad Safuan Shamshol Bahri’s research focuses on environmental sustainability in port operations ⚓🌱. He specializes in green port performance measurement, developing MCDM-based decision-making models, and integrating sustainable practices in logistics 📊🔍. His work also explores regulatory frameworks and governance for eco-friendly port operations, utilizing methodologies like Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Intuitionistic Fuzzy AHP 🌍📈. Through his studies, he contributes to optimizing operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impact, advancing sustainability in maritime logistics 🌊💡.

Publication Top Notes

A tri-level AHP approach for port logistics personnel performance evaluation

Comparative analysis on decision criteria for port personnel using hybrid Analytical Hierarchy Process (H-AHP)

Evaluating cost-efficient queue priorities for berth allocation via simulation

Comparative Analysis On Port Personnel Selection Using Hybrid Analytical Hierarchy Process (h-AHP)

Use of Monte Carlo simulation for hybrid multicriteria decision making approaches

Sustainable port operations and environmental initiatives in Malaysia: A focus on environmental sustainability

Evaluating Priorities of Environmentally Sustainable Port Performance Using an Intuitionistic Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process Approach

A Hybrid Multicriteria Decision-Making Model for Environmentally Sustainable Port

M. Khalid Ijaz | Environmental Science | Visionary Research Award

Published on 11/03/202511/03/2025 by Research Hypothesis

M. Khalid Ijaz | Environmental Science | Visionary Research Award

Dr M. Khalid Ijaz, Reckitt, United States

Dr. M. Khalid Ijaz is a distinguished virologist and immunologist specializing in aerovirology, infectious diseases, and microbiology. With decades of expertise, he has made groundbreaking contributions to understanding airborne viral transmission, bioaerosols, and antimicrobial technologies. He has held leadership roles in renowned organizations like Reckitt Benckiser and Clorox, pioneering research in air decontamination and respiratory virus survival. His extensive publication record, including studies on coronavirus, rhinoviruses, and biofilms, highlights his impactful scientific contributions. Honored with prestigious awards like the 2024 R&D 100 Award, his innovative research continues to shape global public health policies.

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. M. Khalid Ijaz is a distinguished microbiologist and immunologist with a strong academic foundation in veterinary and medical sciences. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 1976 and an MSc (Honors) in Microbiology in 1979 from the University of Agriculture, Pakistan. He became a Registered Microbiologist (RM) in Microbiology, Virology, and Immunology from the Canadian College of Microbiologists in 1984. He obtained his PhD in Microbiology & Immunology (Virology) from the University of Ottawa, School of Medicine, in 1985. He further honed his expertise with a Post-Doctorate Fellowship in Immunobiology/Vaccinology at the University of Saskatchewan, VIDO, in 1987. 🎓🧪🏅

Experience

With a distinguished career in scientific research and product development, he has been serving as the Director of Scientific Affairs at Reckitt Benckiser since 2020 🌍. Prior to this role, he was a Senior Research Fellow (2018-2020) 🔬 and a Research Fellow (2007-2018) at the same company, contributing to groundbreaking innovations. His expertise extends to his tenure as Research Manager at Clorox Services Company (2005-2007) 🧴, where he played a key role in product safety and efficacy. Earlier, he held leadership positions at Microbiotest, Inc., serving as Vice President and Director (1998-2005), driving advancements in microbiological testing 🏭.

Awards and Honors

Renowned for groundbreaking contributions, this distinguished researcher earned the prestigious 2024 R&D 100 Award 🏅, often called the “Oscars of Innovation.” Their journey of excellence began with the Medical Research Council Fellowship Award 🎖️ in 1987, recognizing outstanding scientific achievements. In 1982, they received the WHO Research Trainee Award 🌍, highlighting their impact on global health research. That same year, their academic promise was acknowledged with the Graduate Student Entrance Scholarship 🏛️. Their early dedication to excellence was evident in 1976 when they received a Certificate of Merit 🎖️, marking the start of an illustrious career in research and innovation.

Presentation

Dr. M. Khalid Ijaz actively contributed to the 18th ISAIQ INDOOR AIR 2024 in Honolulu, Hawaii 🌴, exploring virus aerosolization and resuspension 🦠💨. As a co-chair, he led discussions on airborne virus dynamics. His research covered toilet flushing and cleaning effects on viral contamination 🚽🔬, the efficacy of air sanitizers in reducing airborne pathogens 🌬️🛡️, and virus dispersal from floor surfaces during indoor activities 🏠🦠. Collaborating with renowned scientists, Dr. Ijaz’s work enhances understanding of airborne disease transmission and effective mitigation strategies, crucial for public health and indoor air quality 🌎🏥.

Research Focus

Aerovirology explores the airborne transmission of viruses, focusing on aerosolization and resuspension. 💨🦠 This field examines how viruses travel through the air, their stability, and potential risks to public health. Infectious diseases research delves into microbiology, virology, and immunology, uncovering mechanisms of disease spread and immune responses. 🏥🧬 Understanding pathogens at a microscopic level aids in developing treatments and preventive strategies. Microbiology further extends to antimicrobial technologies, biofilms, and microbiological techniques, enhancing infection control and medical advancements. 🧫🔬 These interconnected fields contribute to safeguarding public health by improving detection, prevention, and management of infectious agents.

Publication Top Notes

“Survival characteristics of airborne human coronavirus 229E” 🦠 (1985)
“The global war against intestinal parasites—should we use a holistic approach?” 🤢 (2010)
“An outbreak of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in the United Arab Emirates, 1994-1995” 🌎 (1997)
“Assessment of a respiratory face mask for capturing air pollutants and pathogens including human influenza and rhinoviruses” 🎭 (2018)
“Spread of viral infections by aerosols” 💨 (1987)
“Generic aspects of the airborne spread of human pathogens indoors and emerging air decontamination technologies” 🌆 (2016)
“Effect of relative humidity on the airborne survival of rhinovirus-14” 💧 (1985)

Agnese Rapposelli | Energy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Published on 10/07/202410/07/2024 by Research Hypothesis

Agnese Rapposelli | Energy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Prof Agnese Rapposelli, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy

Dr. Agnese Rapposelli is a Senior Assistant Professor of Economic Statistics at “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Italy, since November 2021. She holds a Ph.D. in Statistics from the same university and achieved National Scientific Qualification as Associate Professor in 2017. Her research focuses on dynamic methodologies for evaluating complex systems, statistical models for spatial analysis, and the impact of environmental pollution on health 🌍📊. Dr. Rapposelli has also been a visiting scholar at Warwick Business School and holds professional qualifications as a chartered accountant and accounting auditor.

Publication profile

google scholar

Education

🎓 Achieving academic excellence, I earned a Ph.D. in Statistics from “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Italy, with a thesis on efficiency evaluation and Data Envelopment Analysis under Prof. Mauro Coli’s guidance in April 2006. I previously completed a Laurea in Economics, summa cum laude, at the same university in July 2002, finishing in 3.5 years instead of 4. My high school journey culminated in a Scientific Lyceum diploma with a focus on lab courses and languages (French/English), scoring 54/60 in July 1998. Professionally, I am a certified Chartered Accountant since November 2012 and an Accounting Auditor since January 2014. 📊📚✈️

Experience

Dr. Agnese Rapposelli has been a dedicated lecturer at “G. D’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Italy. Since 2013, they have taught courses in Statistics, Econometrics, and Quantitative Methods, all held in English. 📊 From 2019-2024, Dr. [Name] taught Statistics and Basic Econometrics for the PhD in Accounting, Management, and Business Economics program. 📈 In 2014-2015, they lectured on Quantitative and Qualitative Methods in Management and Business Administration. 📚 Additionally, in 2013-2014, they focused on Econometric Methods in Finance and Business Administration. 📉 Their commitment to education and expertise in these fields have made them a valuable asset to the university. 🎓

Research project

From 2024-2025, I serve as Principal Investigator for the University of Chieti-Pescara’s PRIN 2022 PNRR project on the circular economy through the lens of mathematics for signal processing 🔍🔄. In 2022, I investigated statistical models for spatial analysis 📊🌍, and in 2021, I focused on spatial-temporal models to examine environmental pollution’s impact on human health 🌿🧬. From 2020 to 2019, my research analyzed corporate governance and financial performance 📈🏢. Earlier, from 2007-2013, I participated in evaluating complex systems 🧩. In 2007-2008, I evaluated airline efficiency ✈️, and in 2002-2003, I worked on strategic planning and performance measurement for Air One SpA 📉📊.

Awards

From 2024-2025, I served as the Principal Investigator for the PRIN 2022 PNRR research project “Circular Economy from the Mathematics for Signal Processing Perspective” at the University of Chieti-Pescara. I received the Best ItAIS Conference Paper award for my study on carbon emissions and economic growth, presented in 2022. My work on waste sector efficiency earned special mentions at international workshops in 2021 and 2022. I also won the Best Track Award in 2021. In 2020 and 2019, I was ranked first in my department for MIUR research funds based on scientific production. 📊🌍🏆

Research focus

A Rapposelli’s research focuses primarily on environmental efficiency and waste management, as well as the inclusion of disabled individuals in the labor market. His work involves evaluating the joint environmental and cost performance of municipal waste systems, the impact of green technology and environmental policies on ecological footprints, and the efficiency of urban waste services. Additionally, Rapposelli has conducted significant research on the employment of disabled people in Italy, analyzing the effectiveness of laws and policies aimed at their inclusion. His studies employ methods such as data envelopment analysis to assess efficiency and policy implications. 🌍♻️👨‍🦽📊