Emese K. Nagy | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 06/05/202506/05/2025 by ScienceFather

Emese K. Nagy | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mrs Emese K. Nagy, University of Miskolc, Hungary

Dr. Emese K. Nagy is a habilitated doctor of education and a leading figure in Hungarian teacher training and talent support. Currently serving as Director General of the Teacher Training Center and Director of the Teacher Training Institute at the University of Miskolc, she is known for her innovative work on the Complex Instruction Program (CIP). Her research addresses equity in education, particularly the academic success of disadvantaged students. Over two decades, she has built a nationwide educational network impacting nearly 200 schools and thousands of teachers. Through practice-oriented reforms and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Nagy continues to transform the pedagogical landscape of Hungary. Her academic and professional excellence has been recognized through numerous national awards, including the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit and the Prima Primissima Prize.

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Nagy’s academic foundation is both multidisciplinary and robust. She earned her habilitation degree in education from Eszterházy Károly University in 2016, following her Ph.D. from the University of Debrecen in 2007. Her academic journey began with a degree in agricultural engineering from the Agricultural University of Debrecen in 1980, followed by a teacher of engineering qualification from Gödöllő in 1988. In 1996, she graduated as a language and literature teacher from the University of Miskolc, and completed her Public Education Manager certification in 1999 at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. Her diverse educational background has significantly influenced her interdisciplinary and inclusive approach to educational reform, especially in combining technical, pedagogical, and administrative competencies to develop sustainable, research-based solutions in teacher training and student support.

Experience

Dr. Emese K. Nagy brings over four decades of multifaceted professional experience. Since 2021, she has held dual leadership roles at the University of Miskolc, heading both the Teacher Training Center and the Institute. From 2018 to 2021, she served as Dean of the Faculty of Pedagogy at Eszterházy Károly University. Earlier, she was the long-serving Head of the IV. Béla Primary School in Hejőkeresztúr (2000–2022), where she pioneered the Hungarian adaptation of the Complex Instruction Program. She has also been a lecturer at Eötvös Loránd University and an associate professor at both the University of Miskolc and Eszterházy Károly University. Her initial career as an agricultural engineer and teacher of engineering laid the groundwork for her analytical and practice-oriented approach to pedagogy. Her leadership across institutions has been instrumental in shaping contemporary Hungarian teacher education and school-based innovation.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Nagy has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing her groundbreaking work in education. Among the most notable are the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary (2010) and the Prima Primissima Award (2016), given to the Hejőkeresztúr school under her leadership. Other honors include the Ambassador of Hungarian Talent (2018), Pro Universitate Award (2015), and the Mentor of the Year Award (2009) from the Hungarian Innovation Association and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. She was also awarded the Medal of Merit by the University of Miskolc in 2023. These accolades reflect her unwavering dedication to talent development, inclusive education, and professional mentorship, affirming her status as a national leader in educational reform and teacher training.

Research Focus

Dr. Nagy’s research is grounded in social justice and educational equity, with a focus on supporting disadvantaged and underperforming students. She investigates the disconnect between teacher instruction and student understanding, and the systemic causes behind educational underachievement. Her most significant research-led innovation is the Complex Instruction Program (CIP)—a national adaptation of Stanford University’s method—designed to foster cooperative learning and eliminate status differences in heterogeneous classrooms. Since 2021, she has prioritized the transformation of teacher training, advocating for practice-oriented models to better prepare educators for real classroom challenges. Her work bridges research, policy, and classroom practice, resulting in tangible improvements in student outcomes, teacher development, and school effectiveness. Her initiatives have become best practices in Hungary’s public education system and are frequently referenced in academic and policy discussions alike.

Publication Top Notes

The Education of Roma Students: Integrated Education and Teacher Preparedness in Hungarian-Language Schools

Sanjeev Kumar Jha | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 12/04/2025 by ScienceFather

Sanjeev Kumar Jha | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr Sanjeev Kumar, Jha PM SHRI KV AFS Arjangarh, New Delhi-110047, India

Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Jha is an accomplished educator and researcher with a strong multidisciplinary background in Education, Mathematics, Sociology, and Computer Applications. 📘🔢🧠 With over 7.5 years of teaching and 4.5 years of research experience at prestigious institutions like NCERT and NUEPA, Dr. Jha has developed a unique blend of academic rigor and field expertise. 📊📚 He is currently serving as an Educator at Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, New Delhi. His scholarly output includes 2 psychological tests, 2 authored books, 1 edited volume, 7 book chapters, and 16 research articles. 🧪🖋️ His work focuses on quality assurance in education, school standards, inclusive pedagogy, and the socio-political dynamics of private and public educational systems in India. 🇮🇳🏫 A certified computer professional, he also brings valuable technical skills in SPSS, data analysis, and digital content development. 💻📈 Dr. Jha’s commitment to educational excellence makes him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. 🏆

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Jha holds a Ph.D. in Education from Jamia Millia Islamia (2013), specializing in comparative quality analysis of private and deemed universities in India. 🎓🏛️ He has an M.Ed. with specializations in Educational Technology and Vocational Guidance from MDU, Rohtak (2009), and a B.Ed. from the same university (2008). His educational journey includes an M.A. in Sociology (2015) and an M.Sc. in Mathematics (2019), demonstrating interdisciplinary depth. 🔢🧮📖 He earned a B.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (2005) and has completed advanced computer certifications including a Certificate in Web Centric Computing from NIIT and IT courses from Tata Infotech. 💻📚 His secondary and higher secondary education were completed in Delhi. 🏙️ His strong foundation in both qualitative and quantitative disciplines allows him to approach educational research with analytical precision and sociological sensitivity. 📊🔬 This diverse academic portfolio sets a solid base for his innovative research contributions. 📘🔍

Experience

Dr. Jha has 7 years and 6 months of teaching experience at Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, currently posted at KV Arjangarh, New Delhi. 🏫✏️ Prior to this, he contributed significantly as a consultant and junior consultant at NCERT and NUEPA, where he worked on the National Achievement Survey and the Shaala Siddhi Programme. 📊📘 His roles included developing evaluation frameworks, training modules, survey tools, and digital dashboards, and liaising with educational stakeholders across India. 🌍💡 From Oct 2011 to Sept 2013, he served as a Junior Survey Associate at NCERT, gaining deep exposure to national-level educational data systems and school evaluations. 🖥️📄 His field and project coordination work in various research capacities illustrates his adaptability, leadership, and technical acumen. 👨‍🏫🧠 His experience encompasses teaching, research design, field data collection, evaluation reporting, digital tool development, and national training facilitation—making him a versatile and impactful education professional. 🌟📈

Awards and Honors

Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Jha has made significant cultural and academic contributions throughout his academic and professional life. 🌟🎖️ He completed both the basic and advanced ‘Cub Master’ courses under the Scout and Guide Movement, reflecting leadership and community engagement. 🧢🏕️ He participated in several inter-college science quiz competitions and was actively involved in cultural activities and festivals, demonstrating his well-rounded personality. 🧠🎤🎭 His quiz performance in the “Conservation of Water” competition organized by the Ministry of Water Resources, Government of India, highlights his awareness and advocacy for social and environmental issues. 💧📘 In the academic domain, he has contributed original psychological assessment tools and published widely in reputed international journals and edited volumes. 🖋️🧪 His commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and outreach exemplifies his role as a dedicated scholar and makes him an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. 🏅🎓📚

Research Focus

Dr. Jha’s research primarily addresses quality, access, and equity in Indian education, particularly within the frameworks of private and public schooling and higher education. 🏫⚖️ His doctoral work focused on evaluating deemed and private universities, highlighting quality assurance issues. 🎓📊 He has contributed to national-level research such as the National Achievement Survey and Shaala Siddhi, focusing on school evaluation standards, policy analysis, and data-driven decision-making. 📈📘 His publications delve into topics like superstitions in learning, mathematics phobia, private tutoring (shadow education), inclusion, and educational satisfaction. 🧠📚 He also explores leadership effectiveness and policy reforms. His interdisciplinary approach integrates educational psychology, sociology, and statistics, and he utilizes tools like SPSS for data analysis. 🧪💡 His technical and analytical expertise positions him well to assess education quality and reform mechanisms, particularly in diverse, multilingual, and multi-cultural Indian schooling systems. 🌍📖 His research continues to impact education policy, evaluation, and inclusive pedagogy. 🤝📘

Publication Top Notes

The Three E’s of Private Tuition in India: Expansion, Expenditure, and Effect

A Study of International Schools in India

Distributive Responses to a Collective Responsibility-The Right to Education in India

Student’s Satisfaction at Higher Level of Education: A case study of Jamia Millia Islamia

Student’s Satisfaction of students with the facilities and the services of Public and Private Universities

Mathematical Phobia of Government and Private Secondary School Students in Relation to Certain Demographical Variables

Leadership Effectiveness: An Emerging Challenge to Today’s Educational Organization and its Practices in Private Universities of India

Heike Wendt | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 25/03/202526/03/2025 by ScienceFather

Heike Wendt | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Heike Wendt, Graz University, Austria

Prof. Dr. Heike Wendt is a distinguished scholar in empirical education research, currently a Full Professor at Graz University, Austria. She has led and contributed to numerous international projects, shaping teacher education and educational policy across Europe and beyond. With a Ph.D. in Educational Sciences from TU Dortmund University (2012, High Distinction), she has held prestigious positions, including Head of the Institute for Education Research & Teacher Education (2022-2024) and Deputy Head of the Institute for Professional Development in Education (2020-2022). Her research focuses on educational equity, teacher development, and comparative education, securing significant funding from Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, DAAD, and other institutions. Prof. Wendt has published extensively, addressing pressing issues in education, migration, and social cohesion. Recognized for her contributions, she continues to drive impactful research in education policy and practice.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Prof. Dr. Heike Wendt has an outstanding academic background in educational sciences. She earned her Ph.D. in Educational Sciences from TU Dortmund University, Germany, in 2012 with high distinction. Prior to this, she completed her “Diplom” degree, equivalent to a combined Bachelor’s and Master’s, in Educational Sciences from the University of Hamburg (BA) and TU Dortmund University (MA) in 2011, also with high distinction. Her academic training provided her with expertise in empirical research methodologies, teacher education, and comparative education systems. Proficient in multiple languages, including German (native), English (C2), and Albanian (A2), she actively participates in global educational research. Her education laid a strong foundation for her career, enabling her to contribute significantly to educational reform, policy development, and international collaborations. 🎓📖

Experience

Prof. Dr. Heike Wendt has an extensive academic career spanning multiple prestigious institutions. Since 2019, she has been a Full Professor at Graz University, Austria. Previously, she served as the Head of the Institute for Education Research & Teacher Education (2022-2024) and Deputy Head of the Institute for Professional Development in Education (2020-2022). She was also an Acting Professor at Oldenburg University, Germany (2018-2019), and the University of Erfurt (2013). From 2013 to 2018 and briefly in 2019, she worked as an Assistant Professor at TU Dortmund University. She has also lectured at universities in Graz, Oldenburg, Vechta, Duhok, and Mosul, teaching topics such as empirical educational research, international education systems, and diversity in learning. With her leadership in international projects and policy development, Prof. Wendt has made a profound impact on teacher education and research worldwide.

Awards & Honors

Prof. Dr. Heike Wendt has received multiple prestigious awards and recognitions for her contributions to education research. Her groundbreaking work in empirical education research, teacher education, and international cooperation has been recognized by organizations such as the European Union, the Austrian Development Agency, and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). She has secured competitive research grants, including funding from Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and the Austrian Development Cooperation. Her projects on educational equity, teacher professionalization, and social cohesion have received international acclaim. Prof. Wendt has been invited as a keynote speaker at numerous international conferences and has served as a consultant for policy development in education. Her recognition as one of the leading researchers in her field highlights her dedication to improving global education systems and fostering international academic collaboration.

Research Focus

Prof. Dr. Heike Wendt’s research focuses on empirical education research, with a strong emphasis on teacher professionalization, educational equity, and international comparative studies. Her work explores the intersection of teacher education, social cohesion, and migration, analyzing how educational systems impact diverse student populations. She is particularly interested in the development of effective policies for teacher training, curriculum design, and assessment methodologies. Her projects, funded by major international organizations, examine issues such as social inclusion in schools, educational standards across the EU, and interdisciplinary approaches to minority education. Through her leadership in projects like TED, ValueED, and EduReaKos, she actively contributes to shaping evidence-based education policies. Prof. Wendt employs mixed-method research approaches, including Item-Response Theory and longitudinal studies, to develop innovative strategies for educational improvement. Her research has influenced policy reforms and teacher training programs globally. 📊📖

Publication Top Notes

ICILS 2013. Computer-und informationsbezogene Kompetenzen von Schülerinnen und Schülern in der 8. Jahrgangsstufe im internationalen Vergleich

IGLU 2016. Lesekompetenzen von Grundschulkindern in Deutschland im internationalen Vergleich

TIMSS 2015. Mathematische und naturwissenschaftliche Kompetenzen von Grundschulkindern in Deutschland im internationalen Vergleich

Lesekompetenzen von Schülerinnen und Schülern mit Migrationshintergrund

Soziale Disparitäten der Schülerleistungen in Mathematik und Naturwissenschaften

TIMSS 2019: Mathematische und naturwissenschaftliche Kompetenzen von Grundschulkindern in Deutschland im internationalen Vergleich

Lesekompetenzen von Schülerinnen und Schülern mit und ohne Migrationshintergrund

Concetta Rondinelli | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 15/03/202515/03/2025 by ScienceFather

Concetta Rondinelli | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Ms Concetta Rondinelli, Banca d’Italia, Italy

Dr. Concetta Rondinelli is a distinguished researcher renowned for her groundbreaking contributions in the fields of statistics and economics. Earning her Ph.D. from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy, she has forged a remarkable career marked by innovative research and a deep commitment to empirical inquiry. Her expertise spans empirical labor economics, household behavior, consumption patterns, and fertility analysis. Over the years, she has published influential articles in top‐tier journals, addressing critical issues such as income shocks, housing dynamics, and economic uncertainty. Her work integrates sophisticated statistical modeling with real‐world economic applications, fostering a better understanding of complex societal challenges. With numerous visiting research positions at esteemed institutions like the University of Oxford and the University of Essex, Dr. Rondinelli has consistently demonstrated academic excellence and intellectual leadership. Her impactful research, combined with a passion for teaching and mentorship, makes her an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award, truly exceptional.

Publication Profile

Google scholar

Education

Dr. Concetta Rondinelli’s academic journey is marked by excellence and diversity. She earned her Ph.D. in Statistics from Bocconi University in April 2007, with a thesis on “Modeling Fertility Hazards with Unobserved Heterogeneity” under the supervision of Prof. F.C. Billari. Her undergraduate accomplishments include a Laurea in Economics, also from Bocconi University, completed in October 2002 with full marks and Summa Cum Laude, where she explored the intersection of genetics and macroeconomics in her thesis “La formula di Ewens: dalla genetica alla macroeconomia,” supervised by Prof. P. Muliere. Additionally, she broadened her perspective through an exchange program at ESSEC in Paris during Winter 2002. Her foundational education began at Liceo Scientifico Statale E. Fermi in Policoro, Italy, where she graduated with distinction in 1998. This rigorous educational background laid the cornerstone for her successful research career. Her academic achievements reflect a lifelong dedication to learning and excellence in research truly.

Experience

Dr. Concetta Rondinelli has amassed a wealth of research experience across internationally recognized institutions. She began her career as a Research Assistant at Bocconi University, where she honed her quantitative skills and developed a passion for econometric analysis. Throughout her academic journey, she served as a Visiting Research Student at the University of Essex and later advanced to roles as Visiting Researcher and Visiting Fellow at the University of Oxford’s Nuffield College and the Institute for New Economic Thinking. Her collaborations with renowned scholars, including Prof. John Muellbauer, Dr. Cheti Nicoletti, and Prof. Marco Francesconi, have enriched her interdisciplinary approach to labor economics and household behavior. In addition to her research roles, she contributed as a Teaching Assistant in Statistics and Mathematics at Bocconi University, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Her diverse experience has solidified her expertise and established her reputation as an innovative and collaborative researcher with enduring impact.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Concetta Rondinelli has received numerous awards and honors that underscore her academic excellence and research innovation. Recognized early in her career, she was granted a Fellowship for postgraduate studies by ISVAP in 2006 and a prestigious Ph.D. Scholarship from the Italian Ministry of Education, University, and Research from 2003 to 2005. Her exceptional performance during her undergraduate studies at Bocconi University earned her the Bachelor Award in 2002, along with a Fellowship for postgraduate studies in Statistics. Additionally, her language proficiency was acknowledged through awards from the English Language Institute in Dublin and King’s College in Dublin during the 1990s. Each accolade reflects her unwavering commitment to rigorous scholarship and her capacity to excel in a competitive academic environment. These honors, coupled with her consistent contributions to econometric research, have cemented her reputation as a leading scholar in her field, inspiring peers and future researchers alike with remarkable grace.

Research Focus

Dr. Concetta Rondinelli’s research focus centers on the intersection of empirical labor economics, household behavior, and econometric analysis. Her work rigorously examines the dynamics of consumption, income shocks, and fertility decisions through advanced statistical modeling and panel data econometrics. By integrating quantitative methods with real‐world economic phenomena, she investigates how factors such as housing market dynamics, economic uncertainty, and policy interventions influence household financial stability and labor market outcomes. Her studies provide critical insights into the drivers of consumption patterns and the interplay between individual economic behavior and broader market trends. Employing sophisticated survival analysis and microeconometric techniques, she contributes to the understanding of economic resilience in the face of crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Her research not only informs academic debates but also offers valuable guidance for policymakers seeking to address income disparities and enhance economic security. Her work exemplifies methodological rigor and practical relevance with visionary impact.

Publication Top Notes

The (mis) specification of discrete duration models with unobserved heterogeneity: a Monte Carlo study

Economic insecurity and fertility intentions: The case of i taly

Women’s wages and childbearing decisions: Evidence from Italy

Consumption and saving patterns in Italy during Covid-19

The European energy crisis and the consequences for the global natural gas market

Fears for the future: Saving dynamics after the Covid-19 outbreak

Serdar YAMAN | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 15/03/202515/03/2025 by ScienceFather

Serdar YAMAN | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Serdar YAMAN, Sirnak University, Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Serdar Yaman is a distinguished academic specializing in finance and economics, with a strong research focus on financial modeling, investment strategies, and risk management 📊💡. He earned his Ph.D. from Şırnak University in 2020, investigating financial failure models within the frameworks of working capital management and capital structure theories 📖. His master’s research analyzed the impact of financial ratios on stock returns of food companies in Borsa Istanbul 📈. Dr. Yaman has served as an Assistant Professor at Şırnak University since 2021 and previously held roles as a lecturer in accounting and taxation 💼. With numerous high-impact publications, he has made significant contributions to financial performance assessment, market volatility, and risk analysis. He actively mentors graduate students, oversees research projects, and participates in national and international academic collaborations 🌍. His excellence in research and dedication to academia make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award 🏅.

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Serdar Yaman has a robust academic background in finance and economics 📚. He completed his Ph.D. at Şırnak University in 2020, focusing on financial distress models in alignment with capital structure and working capital management theories 🎯. His master’s degree, awarded in 2016, examined the influence of financial ratios on stock returns in Borsa Istanbul using panel data analysis 🔍📉. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in 2014, where he developed foundational expertise in financial markets and investment strategies. Throughout his education, he was mentored by Prof. Turhan Korkmaz and engaged in cutting-edge research that has significantly contributed to financial literature 🏦. His academic training has equipped him with a strong analytical approach, positioning him as a leading researcher in financial performance measurement, risk assessment, and investment strategies. His studies have influenced policy decisions and business strategies in capital markets 📊.

Experience

Dr. Serdar Yaman has an extensive academic and administrative career in finance and economics 🏢. He currently serves as an Associate Professor at Şırnak University, contributing to the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences since 2021 🎓. Prior to this, he was an Assistant Professor and lecturer in accounting and taxation at the same institution between 2017 and 2021 🏦. His administrative roles include serving as Co-Head of the Business Department, Commission Member at the Rectorate, and Institutional Coordinator for the Mevlana and Erasmus Exchange Programs 🌍. Beyond academia, he has engaged in national research projects, such as improving sustainable trout farming in the Şırnak Uludere dams 🐟. He also participated in Erasmus Staff Mobility at the University of Petrosani, furthering international collaborations. His dedication to education and research makes him a key figure in financial academia, mentoring graduate students and leading impactful research 📊.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Serdar Yaman has received numerous accolades for his contributions to finance and economics 🏆. His work on financial distress models and capital structure earned him recognition as a leading researcher in financial analytics 📊. He was honored for his high-impact publications in top-tier journals and has received institutional awards for research excellence at Şırnak University 📜. His commitment to academic mentorship has been recognized with awards for graduate thesis supervision 🎓. Dr. Yaman’s participation in international academic programs, including Erasmus and Mevlana Exchange, has further strengthened his reputation globally 🌍. His work on financial performance assessment using advanced methodologies such as TOPSIS and MOORA has been widely cited, earning him a place among prominent researchers in the field 📈. His leadership in financial research and dedication to advancing economic theories position him as a deserving recipient of the Best Researcher Award 🥇.

Research Focus

Dr. Serdar Yaman specializes in financial performance evaluation, investment strategies, and risk assessment 📊. His research employs advanced econometric models, including panel data analysis, to examine stock returns, financial distress, and investment behaviors 📈. His work on Borsa Istanbul firms has provided crucial insights into how financial ratios affect market performance, offering practical implications for investors and policymakers 🏦. He has also contributed significantly to sustainability and corporate finance, particularly in studying the relationship between financial failure risk and sustainable growth 🔍. His interdisciplinary research integrates financial engineering methods with real-world market applications, bridging the gap between theory and practice 🔄. Additionally, his work on exchange rate volatility and market shocks has been instrumental in understanding financial risk dynamics. His ongoing projects focus on asset pricing models and optimal portfolio selection, cementing his role as a key figure in financial research and academic mentorship 🎯.

Publication Top Notes

Finansal Performansın TOPSIS ve MOORA Yöntemleri İle Belirlenmesi: BİST Enerji Firmaları Üzerine Karşılaştırmalı Bir Uygulama

Pay Getirilerine Etki Eden Finansal Oranların Panel Veri Analiz Yöntemi İle Tespiti: BİST Gıda Firmaları Üzerine Bir Uygulama

Ülke Kredi Notlarının Pay Getirileri Üzerindeki Etkileri: BİST 30 Endeksi Üzerinde Bir Event Study Analizi

Çalışma Sermayesi Yönetiminin Firma Karlılığına Etkisi: BİST Turizm Firmaları Üzerine Bir Uygulama

TOPSIS ve MOORA yöntemleri ile ölçülen finansal performansın pay getirilerine etkisi: BİST çimento-beton işletmeleri üzerine bir panel veri uygulaması

Finansal başarısızlık modellerinin çalışma sermayesi yatırım ve finansman politikaları doğrultusunda incelenmesi: bist’de karşılaştırmalı bir uygulama

Borsa İstanbulda işlem gören gıda firmalarının hisse senedi getirilerine etki eden finansal oranların panel veri analiz yöntemi ile tespiti

Amber Alaníz | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 26/11/202426/11/2024 by ScienceFather

Amber Alaníz | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Ms Amber Alaníz, University of Iowa, United States

Amber Alaníz is a Ph.D. student in Social Work at the University of Iowa, focusing on Public Health, with an expected graduation in 2026. She holds an LMSW and a B.A. in Social Work, both from the University of Iowa. Amber’s research includes studying the intersection of race, disability, mental health, and education, with publications addressing exclusionary practices in schools. She has received numerous honors, including the 2023 Society on Social Work Research Travel Grant and the 2022 Underrepresented Minority Pre-Comprehensive Mentored Summer Research Fellowship. Amber is an active member of various professional organizations and contributes to teaching and community advocacy. 📚🎓💡🧑‍🏫

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Amber Alaníz is a Ph.D. student in Social Work at the University of Iowa, with a concentration in Public Health, projected to graduate in Spring 2026. She holds an LMSW in Social Work (2021) and a B.A. in Social Work (2016) from the same institution. Amber has held various academic and research roles, including Graduate Research Assistant for projects on neighborhood disorder and dementia, mental health in social work graduate students, and adverse childhood experiences. She has also co-facilitated interdisciplinary projects and collaborated on intellectual and developmental disability sexuality education. Amber is dedicated to exploring the intersections of race, disability, and exclusionary practices. 🎓📚💡

Honors and Awards

Amber Alaníz has received several prestigious awards throughout her academic career. In 2023, she earned the Society on Social Work Research Travel Grant ($500). In 2022, she was awarded the Underrepresented Minority Pre-Comprehensive Mentored Summer Research Fellowship ($5,000) from the University of Iowa Graduate College. Other honors include the Emerging Leader recognition by AUCD in 2021, and the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Program. In 2020, she received the John Craft Excellence in Research Award, Lola Moeller Zook and Leslie G. Moeller Community Service Award, and a Graduate Diversity Scholarship ($10,000). 🏅🎓🌟

Memberships

Amber Alaníz is an active advocate and leader in social justice and disability rights. Since 2016, she has been part of the Mental Health, Special Education, and Disability Advocacy Group in Iowa City. Her commitment extends to roles in several influential organizations, including the Coalition to Abolish Prison Slavery at Iowa (2024–Present), the Abolitionist Social Change Collective (2023–Present), and the Society on Social Work Research (2023–Present). She is also involved with the Latinx Graduate Student Association (2023–Present), Council on Social Work Education (2022–Present), and Americans with Disabilities Act Celebration Committee (2022–Present). 💪🌱📚🧑‍🤝‍🧑🦽

Research Focus

Amber Alaníz’s research focuses on the intersection of disability studies, education, and social justice, specifically examining how youth of color with mental disabilities face exclusion in educational settings. Her work utilizes Disability Critical Race Theory (DisCrit) and statistical methods like logistic regression to analyze the systemic barriers these students encounter. She advocates for inclusive educational practices and aims to highlight the racial and disability-related disparities in educational experiences. Her research emphasizes understanding the structural factors contributing to exclusion, providing critical insights for policy and practice aimed at creating equitable educational environments. 📚💡💪🏽

Professional Engagement and Impact

Ms. Amber Alaníz is deeply committed to impactful research, engaging in interdisciplinary projects like the Neighborhood Disorder and Dementia Study and the Social Work Graduate Students’ Precarity and Mental Health project. These initiatives highlight her dedication to understanding complex societal issues. Additionally, her collaborative work on intellectual and developmental disabilities and sexuality education showcases her passion for improving knowledge and support for marginalized groups. Through her research, she aims to create positive change and advocate for the well-being of those often overlooked. 🌍🔬💡📚💪

Publication Top Notes

How youth of color with mental disabilities are excluded from school: A DisCrit and logistic regression analysis

Conclusion

Amber Alaníz’s research and leadership in social work and public health have made a significant impact, especially in addressing societal challenges faced by marginalized communities. Her unwavering dedication to improving public health outcomes reflects her passion for creating meaningful change. Through her innovative research, Amber has contributed valuable insights that guide social work practices and policies. Her work not only highlights pressing issues but also proposes solutions that empower communities. Amber’s commitment to making a positive difference makes her a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. 🌍💡📚💪🏽🩺

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