Huifang Niu | Engineering and Technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Huifang Niu | Engineering and Technology | Best Researcher Award

lecturer | North University | China

Huifang Niu, born in September 1986, is a Lecturer at North University of China with a strong academic background in automation and intelligent systems. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Automation and her M.S. in Pattern Recognition and Intelligent Systems from Mongolian University, Hohhot, China, in 2010 and 2013 respectively. In 2023, she completed her Ph.D. in Complex System Modeling and Simulation at North University of China. Her current research focuses on the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) prediction of complex systems, an important area in predictive maintenance and reliability engineering. As an active researcher and educator in electrical engineering, she has published three SCI-indexed journal articles and continues to contribute to the advancement of intelligent system modeling and predictive analytics. Her interdisciplinary expertise bridges automation, simulation, and intelligent diagnostics, positioning her as a promising figure in applied engineering research.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile

Education 

Huifang Niu has pursued a progressive academic path in engineering and intelligent systems. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Automation from Mongolian University, Hohhot, China in July 2010, laying the foundation for her expertise in control systems and automation technologies. She continued at the same institution to obtain her Master’s degree in Pattern Recognition and Intelligent Systems in July 2013, where she delved deeper into machine learning and intelligent algorithms. Most recently, she completed her Ph.D. in Complex System Modeling and Simulation from North University of China, Taiyuan, in June 2023, with a research focus on predictive modeling and the remaining useful life (RUL) of complex systems. Her academic journey reflects a strong.

Professional Experience 

Huifang Niu is currently serving as a Lecturer at North University of China, where she is actively involved in both teaching and research within the field of electrical engineering. Her professional work centers on the prediction of the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) of complex systems, a vital area in the domains of system reliability and intelligent maintenance. With a strong academic foundation and research focus, she contributes to the academic development of undergraduate and postgraduate students while also engaging in scholarly research. Her role bridges theory and application, combining complex system modeling with real-world engineering challenges. Through her work, she continues to expand her expertise in automation, intelligent diagnostics, and predictive system analysis.

Research Interests

Huifang Niu’s research interests lie at the intersection of complex system modeling, intelligent diagnostics, and predictive maintenance. She is particularly focused on the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) prediction of complex systems, which plays a crucial role in improving system reliability, optimizing maintenance strategies, and reducing operational risks in industrial settings. Her work leverages techniques from pattern recognition, machine learning, and simulation modeling to develop accurate and efficient predictive models. Driven by real-world engineering challenges, her research aims to enhance the performance, safety, and longevity of automated and intelligent systems, contributing meaningfully to the fields of electrical engineering, system reliability, and intelligent systems design.

Awards and Honors

As an emerging scholar in the field of intelligent systems and predictive maintenance, Huifang Niu has begun to establish her academic footprint through SCI-indexed publications and her contributions to complex system modeling. While she has not yet been widely recognized with major national or international awards, her recent completion of a Ph.D. in 2023 and her ongoing research work position her as a strong candidate for future honors. Her dedication to high-quality research, teaching excellence, and contributions to the engineering community suggest that further academic and professional recognition is likely as she continues to advance her scholarly career.

Publications Top Noted

Title: Remaining Useful Life Prediction for Multi-Component Systems with Stochastic Correlation Based on Auxiliary Particle Filter

Year: 2025

Conclusion

Hiufang Niu shows promising early-career researcher qualities, especially with a recent Ph.D. and specialized work in predictive modeling for complex systems. Her academic progression, SCI-indexed publications, and focused research direction provide a strong foundation. However, for a highly competitive “Best Researcher Award,” the scope and impact of contributions could be further enhanced.

Luis Pastor Sanchez-Fernandez | Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence | Cross-disciplinary Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Luis Pastor Sanchez-Fernandez | Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence | Cross-disciplinary Excellence Award

Senior Researcher at Center for Computing Research Instituto Politecncico Nacional, Mexico

Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández is a Full Professor at the Computer Research Center of the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) in Mexico City, with a PhD in Technical Sciences from the José Antonio Echeverría Polytechnic Institute (CUJAE), Havana (1998). A distinguished researcher and educator, he has been a member of Mexico’s National System of Researchers since 2007 (currently Level II). His work spans multiple disciplines, including biomechanics, bioinformatics, environmental acoustics, signal processing, expert systems, and intelligent automation. He has supervised over 13 doctoral and 46 master’s students, many of whom received honors or were inducted into national research systems. Dr. Sánchez-Fernández has led several research groups and CONACYT-funded projects, notably designing the Environmental Noise Monitoring System for the Historic Center of Mexico City. A recipient of the 2014 IPN Applied Research Award, he is also an accomplished keynote speaker, reviewer for high-impact journals, and advocate for interdisciplinary and socially impactful research.

Professional Profile 

🎓 Education of Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández

Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández holds a PhD in Technical Sciences from the prestigious José Antonio Echeverría Polytechnic Institute (CUJAE) in Havana, Cuba, awarded in 1998. His doctoral education laid a strong interdisciplinary foundation, combining elements of engineering, computer science, and applied research. This academic background has been instrumental in shaping his cross-disciplinary research career, allowing him to contribute significantly to fields such as biomechanics, signal processing, and intelligent systems.

💼 Professional Experience of Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández

Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández has served as a Full Professor at the Computer Research Center of the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN), Mexico City, since 2000, where he has been a key figure in advancing interdisciplinary scientific research and technological development. With over two decades of academic and research leadership, he has directed multiple research groups in bioinformatics and intelligent measurement systems, supervised numerous postgraduate theses, and mentored future leaders in science. His expertise spans diverse fields including biomechanics, environmental acoustics, expert systems, and automation. He has also played critical roles as a project leader for national research initiatives funded by CONACYT, and as an advisor and evaluator of scientific proposals. His contributions extend beyond academia into societal impact projects, such as the Environmental Noise Monitoring System for Mexico City, solidifying his reputation as a cross-disciplinary innovator and research leader.

🔬 Research Interests of Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández

Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández’s research interests lie at the intersection of engineering, computer science, health sciences, and environmental studies, reflecting his strong cross-disciplinary approach. He focuses on the biomechanical analysis of patients with Parkinson’s disease, exploring computational and signal-based methods to improve medical diagnostics and rehabilitation. He is also deeply engaged in environmental acoustics, developing noise indicators and acoustic indices to assess and mitigate the harmful effects of urban noise pollution. His work extends into signal pattern recognition, expert systems, virtual instrumentation, and the design of intelligent systems for automation. Additionally, he has a sustained interest in bioinformatics, leading research groups that develop advanced computational tools for biological data analysis. His research consistently integrates theory and practical application, addressing real-world problems through innovative, multidisciplinary solutions.

🏅 Awards and Honors of Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández

Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández has received several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to interdisciplinary research and academic mentorship. He was honored with the Applied Research Award by the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) in 2014, acknowledging his impactful work that bridges scientific innovation and real-world application. As a dedicated mentor, he has received two thesis advisor awards from IPN, celebrating the excellence of his supervised postgraduate research. Many of his doctoral and master’s students have earned honorable mentions and Cum Laude distinctions, with several joining Mexico’s National System of Researchers—a testament to his role in cultivating high-caliber scholars. Since 2007, he has held Level II membership in the National System of Researchers of Mexico (SNI), further solidifying his reputation as a leader in cross-disciplinary scientific advancement.

🧾 Conclusion

The candidate demonstrates exceptional cross-disciplinary impact, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to advancing science at the intersection of multiple fields. His contributions in biomechanics, environmental monitoring, signal processing, and intelligent systems showcase not only depth but also the integration of diverse disciplines to address complex societal challenges. He is an ideal nominee for the Cross-disciplinary Excellence Award. Minor enhancements in visibility, global partnerships, and documentation of publications would make his case even more compelling.

📚 Publications by Luis Pastor Sánchez-Fernández

1.Title: Dataset for Gait Assessment in Parkinson’s Disease Patients

  • Authors: (Not provided)
  • Year: (Not explicitly listed)
  • Type: Data Paper – Open Access
  • Citations: 0

2.Title: Innovations and Technological Advances in Healthcare Remote Monitoring Systems for the Elderly and Vulnerable People: A Scoping Review

  • Authors: (Not fully listed)
  • Year: (Not explicitly listed)
  • Type: Review – Open Access
  • Citations: 0

3.Title: Computer Model for Gait Assessments in Parkinson’s Patients Using a Fuzzy Inference Model and Inertial Sensors

  • Authors: (Not fully listed)
  • Journal: Artificial Intelligence in Medicine
  • Year: 2025
  • Citations: 2

4.Title: Motion Smoothness Analysis of the Gait Cycle, Segmented by Stride and Associated with the Inertial Sensors’ Locations

  • Authors: (Not fully listed)
  • Journal: Sensors
  • Year: 2025
  • Type: Article – Open Access
  • Citations: 1

5.Title: Network Long-Term Evolution Quality of Service Assessment Using a Weighted Fuzzy Inference System

  • Authors: (Not fully listed)
  • Journal: Mathematics
  • Year: 2024
  • Type: Article – Open Access
  • Citations: 0

6.Title: Biomechanics of Parkinson’s Disease with Systems Based on Expert Knowledge and Machine Learning: A Scoping Review

  • Authors: (Not listed)
  • Year: (Not explicitly listed)
  • Type: Review – Open Access
  • Citations: 0

7.Title: An Integrated Approach to the Regional Estimation of Soil Moisture

  • Authors: (Not fully listed)
  • Journal: Hydrology
  • Year: 2024
  • Type: Article – Open Access
  • Citations: 0

8.Title: A Fuzzy Inference Model for Evaluating Data Transfer in LTE Mobile Networks via Crowdsourced Data

  • Authors: (Not fully listed)
  • Journal: Computación y Sistemas
  • Year: 2024
  • Type: Article
  • Citations: 1

9.Title: Computer Model for an Intelligent Adjustment of Weather Conditions Based on Spatial Features for Soil Moisture Estimation

  • Authors: (Not fully listed)
  • Journal: Mathematics
  • Year: 2024
  • Type: Article – Open Access
  • Citations: 4

 

 

GULDANA MAKASHEVA | Engineering and Technology | Research Hypothesis Excellence Award

GULDANA MAKASHEVA | Engineering and Technology | Research Hypothesis Excellence Award

Leading Research Scientist at LLP KazHydroMed, Kazakhstan

Mrs. Guldana Makasheva is a seasoned metallurgical researcher and Senior Research Scientist at LLP KazHydroMed, Kazakhstan. With over a decade of hands-on and theoretical experience across various roles in metallurgy, her expertise lies in flotation, hydrometallurgy, and the beneficiation of complex ores and industrial tailings. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Metallurgy at Satbayev University and holds advanced degrees in Metallurgy and Organic Chemistry. Her career spans from laboratory chemist to lead engineer, demonstrating her adaptability and growth. Makasheva has authored numerous scientific publications in both national and international journals and has contributed to high-impact projects aimed at developing eco-friendly and efficient mineral processing technologies. Her research, marked by technical precision and practical relevance, has addressed pressing industrial challenges in Kazakhstan’s mining sector. With a strong foundation in hypothesis-driven experimentation, she exemplifies the principles celebrated by the Research Hypothesis Excellence Award.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Mrs. Makasheva holds a Master’s degree in Technical Sciences with a specialization in Metallurgy and Mineral Processing from Satbayev University, one of Kazakhstan’s premier technical institutions. Her academic foundation began with a Bachelor’s in Chemistry of Organic Substances from Karaganda State University named after E.A. Buketov, where she gained solid grounding in analytical and synthetic chemistry. Continuing her academic journey, she is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Metallurgy at Satbayev University (2023–present), focusing on advanced beneficiation techniques and processing of complex ore materials. Her academic background is complemented by specialized certifications, including a Certified PC User qualification and Accounting & 1C certification, highlighting her commitment to interdisciplinary skills. Her education has consistently supported her progression as a research leader in metallurgical science, emphasizing innovation, practical application, and publication in high-impact forums. 🎓📘🧪

Experience

Mrs. Guldana Makasheva’s professional trajectory reflects deep engagement with Kazakhstan’s metallurgical sector. Since 2021, she has served as a Senior Research Scientist at LLP KazHydroMed, where she designed cutting-edge research programs and executed pilot-scale tests in slag and ore processing. Earlier, as Lead Process Engineer at JSC “Zhairem GOK” (2020–2021), she worked on mineral flow diagrams and thickening technologies. At JSC “Varvarinskoye” (2011–2020), she ascended from Laboratory Chemist to Metallurgical Process Engineer, gaining end-to-end operational experience—from ore crushing to desorption and AAS/XRF analysis. Her earliest role was at the Institute of Organic Synthesis and Coal Chemistry, where she synthesized catalysts and conducted chromatographic studies. Each position honed her skills in technical reporting, pilot experiments, and project leadership, building a solid foundation for her present-day research excellence.

Awards and Honors

While specific national or international awards are not listed, Mrs. Guldana Makasheva’s consistent leadership in funded scientific projects and co-authorship of peer-reviewed publications signifies her recognition within the scientific community. Her appointment as Lead Investigator across multiple major projects—such as beneficiation of legacy tailings and development of flotation technologies—indicates institutional trust and high-level peer acknowledgment. She has also been a frequent contributor to SCOPUS-indexed and national journals, suggesting editorial confidence in her scientific rigor. As a Senior Research Scientist, she has been a key figure in government and industrial research initiatives, often coordinating multidisciplinary teams to address Kazakhstan’s critical metallurgical challenges. Her accolades are implicit in her elevation to senior scientific ranks and her pivotal roles in transformative projects. Her ongoing Ph.D. candidacy further reflects academic recognition and career progression.

Research Focus

Mrs. Makasheva’s research spans flotation chemistry, hydrometallurgical processing, ore beneficiation, and tailings revalorization. Her core investigations involve innovative techniques for processing refractory oxidized ores and polymetallic tailings, with special emphasis on flotation using hydroxamate-based collectors and gravity-flotation technologies. She has actively contributed to pilot testing for slag processing from metallurgical plants and has optimized concentrate thickening strategies. Her projects are critical to sustainable resource management, addressing legacy waste streams from major mining hubs like Balkhash and Zhezkazgan. Guldana also explores the oxidative-reductive potential in ore enrichment and thermochemical methods for improving flotation performance. Her current Ph.D. research likely intersects with these themes, pushing boundaries in extractive metallurgy. With a clear focus on bridging lab research with field applications, her work is both environmentally and economically transformative.

Publication Top Notes