Assist. Prof. Dr. Joaquim Casaca | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Joaquim Casaca | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Prof, IADE, European University, Portugal

Joaquim António A. Casaca is an accomplished academic and professional in management, specializing in information security and marketing. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at IADE, European University, Lisbon. Known for his expertise in management and economics, Joaquim has contributed extensively to research in areas such as entrepreneurial competence, marketing, and information security.

Publication Profile

Scopus

ORCID

🎓 Education Background

Joaquim Casaca holds a PhD in Management (2010) from Universidade Lusíada de Lisboa, with a thesis focusing on information security management in Portuguese SMEs. He earned a Master’s in Management (1999) and an MBA (1997) from ISEG – Lisbon School of Economics and Management, University of Lisbon. Additionally, he completed a Postgraduate degree in Information Sciences and Technologies for Organizations (1996) from ISEG, and holds a BSc in Economics (1982) from the same institution.

💼 Professional Experience

Since 2010, Joaquim has been an Assistant Professor at IADE, European University (Lisbon). Previously, he held academic roles at the University of Lisbon and Lusófona University, and financial positions in notable companies such as PT Multimédia, Portugal Telecom, and Companhia Portuguesa Rádio Marconi. His broad experience spans academia, finance, and management consultancy.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Joaquim received the Banco Espírito Santo Award in 1999 at ISEG for his outstanding Master’s thesis. This recognition highlights his early excellence and research capability in management.

🔍 Research Focus

His research interests center on management, information security, entrepreneurial competence, and marketing. Recent work includes studies on game-based learning’s effect on entrepreneurial skills and the role of neuroscience in economics and marketing. Joaquim’s interdisciplinary approach integrates management theory with emerging technologies and consumer behavior.

🔚 Conclusion

With a strong academic foundation and a versatile professional background, Joaquim A. Casaca is a respected figure in management and information security education. His ongoing contributions advance the understanding of how technology and management intersect in organizational contexts.

📚 Top Publications

  • The effect of game-based learning on the development of entrepreneurial competence among higher education students
    Daniel, A. D., Negre, Y., Casaca, J. A., Patricio, R., & Tsvetcoff, R. (2024). Education + Training.
    DOI: 10.1108/ET-10-2023-0448 — Cited by 3 articles

  • Neuroscience Applied to Economics and Marketing: A bibliometric Review of the Literature
    Casaca, J. A. (2024). International Journal of Business Innovation and Research.
    DOI: 10.1504/ijbir.2024.10066189

  • The determinants of non-consumption of disposable plastic: application of an extended theory of planned behaviour
    Casaca, J. A. (2024). International Journal of Business Environment.
    DOI: 10.1504/IJBE.2024.135693

  • Relational Marketing and Customer Satisfaction: A Systematic Literature Review
    Casaca, J. A. (2023). Estudios Gerenciales.
    DOI: 10.18046/j.estger.2023.169.6218

  • Relationship Marketing and Customer Retention – A Systematic Literature Review
    Casaca, J. A. (2023). Studies in Business and Economics.
    DOI: 10.2478/sbe-2023-0044

 

Seyed Abolfazl Aghili | Deep Learning | Best Review Paper Award

Dr. Seyed Abolfazl Aghili | Deep Learning | Best Review Paper Award

lecturer, iran university of science and technology, Iran

Seyed Abolfazl Aghili is a passionate civil engineer with a strong focus on construction engineering and management. With a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the prestigious Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), he specializes in using artificial intelligence for enhancing the resilience of HVAC systems in hospitals. His research integrates cutting-edge technologies such as machine learning and deep learning to optimize building systems and improve decision-making in construction projects. Seyed’s dedication to his field has earned him a reputation as a driven academic and professional in the civil engineering community. 🏗️🤖

Publication Profile

ORCID

Education Background

Seyed Abolfazl Aghili completed his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Construction Engineering and Management from Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST) between 2019 and 2024. His doctoral thesis focused on developing a framework to assess the long-term resilience of hospital air conditioning systems using artificial intelligence. Prior to that, he earned his M.Sc. in Civil Engineering with a focus on Construction Engineering and Management at IUST, where he investigated employee selection methods in construction firms. He also holds a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from Isfahan University of Technology (IUT). 🎓📚

Professional Experience

Seyed Abolfazl Aghili has extensive experience in both academic research and practical applications of civil engineering, particularly in construction management. He has worked on various projects involving energy management, risk management, and resilience within the construction industry. His academic journey has seen him contribute significantly to the research community, particularly in the areas of AI in construction systems and HVAC performance. Furthermore, he has been an integral part of various conferences and publications, sharing his insights on improving construction management processes through technology. 💼🏢

Awards and Honors

Seyed Abolfazl Aghili has earned several prestigious awards throughout his academic journey. He was ranked 5th among 2200 participants in the Nationwide University Entrance Exam for the Ph.D. program in Iran in 2019. Additionally, he ranked 2nd among all construction management students at Iran University of Science and Technology during his M.Sc. studies. He was also ranked in the top 1% (220th out of 32,663) in the Nationwide University Entrance Exam for the M.Sc. program in Iran in 2013. 🏆🥇

Research Focus

Seyed’s primary research interests lie in the application of machine learning and deep learning techniques in construction engineering. His work focuses on enhancing the resilience of building systems, especially HVAC systems in healthcare settings. He also explores risk management, sustainability, lean construction, and decision-making systems for project managers. His interdisciplinary research combines civil engineering with advanced AI methodologies, driving innovations in construction management and systems optimization. 🔍💡

Conclusion

Seyed Abolfazl Aghili’s academic and professional journey reflects his commitment to advancing civil engineering through innovative solutions. His focus on integrating artificial intelligence into construction systems is helping to create smarter, more sustainable, and resilient built environments. Through his work, he continues to contribute valuable insights to both the academic world and the practical sector of construction engineering. 🌍🔧

Publications Top Notes

Artificial Intelligence Approaches to Energy Management in HVAC Systems: A Systematic Review. Journal of Buildings, 15.7 (2025).

Data-driven approach to fault detection for hospital HVAC system. Journals of Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, ahead-of-print (2024).

Feasibility Study of Using BIM in Construction Site Decision Making in Iran. International Conference on Civil Engineering, Architecture and Urban Infrastructure, July 2015.

Review of digital imaging technology in safety management in the construction industry. 1st National Conference on Development of Civil Engineering, Architecture, Electricity and Mechanical in Iran (December, 2014).

The role of insurance companies in managing the crisis after earthquake. 1st National Congress of Engineering, Construction, and Evaluation of Development Projects, May 2013.

The need for a new approach to pre-crisis and post-crisis management of earthquake. 1st National Conference on Seismology and Earthquake, February 2013.

Prof. Dr. Otilia Manta | Artificial Intelligence | Innovative Research Award

Prof. Dr. Otilia Manta | Artificial Intelligence | Innovative Research Award

Professor PhD, Romanian Academy, Romania

Prof. Dr. habil. Elena Otilia Manta  is a renowned economist, academic, and scientific researcher, currently serving as a Professor at the Romanian-American University and a Scientific Researcher at the Romanian Academy. With over two decades of experience in economic sciences, she is widely respected for her expertise in finance, FinTech, AI integration, and sustainable development. She also holds various leadership roles in international organizations, including Vice President of EUExperts in Brussels, reflecting her strong influence in policy and academic circles globally. 🌍💼

Publication Profile

🎓 Education Background

Prof. Manta holds a Ph.D. in Economics and the academic title of “habilitation,” enabling her to supervise doctoral research. Her education has been complemented by continuous development in areas like finance, international economic relations, and technological integration, laying a solid academic foundation for her contributions in both national and international academic communities. 🎓📖

💼 Professional Experience

Since 2014, Prof. Manta has been a Scientific Researcher at the Romanian Academy and since 2019, a full Professor at the Romanian-American University in Bucharest. She also serves as Vice President of the European Union Experts (EUExperts) and the International Research Institute for Economics and Management (IRIEM), among others. As founder and CEO of The Romanian Group for Investments and Consultancy (RGIC), she combines academic depth with real-world financial leadership. She has also served as an EU Expert and Rapporteur with the European Commission. 🌐🏛️📊

🏆 Awards and Honors

Prof. Manta has received numerous honors, including the “2006 Woman of the Year Commemorative Medal” by the American Biographical Institute. She is a respected honorary member of the Romanian-Italian Chamber of Commerce and holds various affiliations with prestigious academic, financial, and developmental organizations such as the UN HLPF Mechanism and the Financial Stability Oversight Council (NY). 🥇🎖️🌟

🔬 Research Focus

Her research focuses on FinTech, artificial intelligence integration in banking, sustainable economic development, academic transparency, and financial innovation. As an active participant in multidisciplinary fields, Prof. Manta is a frequent contributor to leading journals and conferences, continuously shaping discussions on the future of finance and digital transformation. 💡📈🤖

🔗 Publications – Top Notes

Banking Transformation Through FinTech and the Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Payments – FinTech, 2025 | DOI: 10.3390/fintech4020013 – A highly impactful paper exploring AI’s role in revolutionizing payment systems.

FinTech and AI as Opportunities for a Sustainable Economy – FinTech, 2025 | DOI: 10.3390/fintech4020010 – Widely cited for linking technology to green and inclusive finance.

The Transfer of Managerial Expertise in Romanian Companies through the Application of the DEMATEL Method – Journal for Future Society and Education, 2025 – Emphasizes decision science in corporate governance.

Ensuring Academic Integrity: Tools and Mechanisms for a Transparent Educational Environment – Preprints, 2025 – Focuses on digital tools fostering academic ethics.

🔚 Conclusion

Prof. Dr. habil. Otilia Manta is a distinguished leader, bridging the worlds of academia, finance, and international consultancy. Her career reflects a strong commitment to innovation, transparency, and global collaboration in economics. Through her scholarly research, institutional leadership, and consultancy, she continues to inspire future generations in both Romania and abroad. 🌟📘🌍

Mr. André Guimarães | Computer Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. André Guimarães | Computer Science | Best Researcher Award

Researcher, University of Beira Interior, Portugal

Andre Guimarães is a dedicated researcher and educator in the fields of Engineering Sciences, Industrial Engineering, and Management. With a strong academic background, he has contributed significantly to various research projects related to Industry 4.0 and digital transformation. He currently holds research positions at the University of Beira Interior and the Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, Portugal. Alongside his academic work, Andre has accumulated practical experience in industrial environments, particularly in production management and technical consulting, where he focuses on quality management, lean methodologies, and engineering innovations. He is also a passionate educator, teaching engineering and management-related courses at the higher education level. 📚🔬

Publication Profile

ORCID

Education:

Andre’s educational journey includes a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Management from the Polytechnic Institute of Viseu. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Industrial Engineering and Management at the University of Beira Interior. Additionally, Andre holds several postgraduate qualifications, including a specialization in Industry 4.0 and Digital Transformation from the Polytechnic Institute of Porto. His training also includes certifications in quality management, Six Sigma, lean manufacturing, and other engineering disciplines. 🎓📖

Experience:

Andre’s professional career spans both academia and industry. He has worked as a researcher at the University of Beira Interior and the Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, contributing to cutting-edge research in mechanical and industrial engineering. Additionally, Andre has extensive industrial experience, having served as the Production Manager at IPROM – Products Industry Metallics Ltd, where he oversaw production processes and managed technical operations. As a consultant and facilitator at the Welding and Quality Institute, Andre applies his expertise in quality management systems and continuous improvement. 🏭⚙️

Awards and Honors:

Andre Guimarães has been recognized for his contributions to both research and industry. He is a full member of the Order of Engineers in Portugal and a fellow at FCT Research. His work has been acknowledged through various academic and industry accolades, cementing his reputation as a skilled professional and educator in his field. 🏅🌟

Research Focus:

Andre’s research interests are deeply rooted in Industry 4.0 technologies, digital transformation, lean management, and quality systems in industrial engineering. His research aims to bridge the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical applications in engineering, with a focus on improving production efficiency, implementing digital technologies, and optimizing management processes in industrial environments. His recent projects explore advanced methodologies in electromechatronics and systems research. 🔍📊

Conclusion:

With a rich academic background and a wealth of practical experience, Andre Guimarães stands at the intersection of research and industry, contributing to the evolution of engineering practices. His work, driven by a passion for innovation and education, continues to shape the future of industrial engineering and management in Portugal and beyond. Andre’s ongoing commitment to advancing the field through both research and practical applications makes him a valuable asset to the academic and industrial communities. 🚀🌍

Publications:

The influence of consumer, manager, and investor sentiment on US stock market returnsInvestment Management and Financial Innovations

Effects of Lean Tools and Industry 4.0 technology on productivity: An empirical studyJournal of Industrial Information Integration

Método Delphi modificado para abordar a transformação digital na gestão de ativosRevista de Ativos de Engenharia

Lean philosophy and Value Engineering methodologies. Their relations and synergy using Bert a natural language processing modelCongrEGA 2024 – Sustainable and Digital Innovation in Engineering Asset Management

Modificação do Método Delphi para Aplicação num Questionário sobre a Transformação Digital na Gestão de AtivosCongrEGA 2024 – Sustainable and Digital Innovation in Engineering Asset Management

Overview of the use of data assets in the context of Portuguese companies: Comparison between SMEs and large companiesCongrEGA 2024 – Sustainable and Digital Innovation in Engineering Asset Management

Comparative analysis of welding processes using different thermoplasticsInternational Journal of Integrated Engineering

Sikandar Ali | Artificial Intelligence Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sikandar Ali | Artificial Intelligence Award | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc Fellow, Inje University, South Korea

🎓 Sikandar Ali is a passionate AI researcher and educator specializing in Artificial Intelligence applications in healthcare. Currently pursuing a PhD at Inje University, South Korea, he has a strong academic background and extensive research experience in digital pathology, medical imaging, and machine learning. As a team leader of the digital pathology project, he develops innovative AI algorithms for cancer diagnosis while collaborating with a global team of researchers. Sikandar is a recipient of prestigious scholarships, accolades, and recognition for his contributions to AI and healthcare innovation.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

📘 Sikandar Ali holds a PhD in Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare (CGPA: 4.46/4.5) from Inje University, South Korea, where his thesis focuses on integrating pathology foundation models with weakly supervised learning for gastric and breast cancer diagnosis. He earned an MS in Computer Science from Chungbuk National University, South Korea (GPA: 4.35/4.5), with research on AI-based clinical decision support systems for cardiovascular diseases. His undergraduate degree is a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Systems Engineering from Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Pakistan, with a CGPA of 3.5/4.0.

Experience

💻 Sikandar is an experienced researcher and AI specialist. Currently working as an AI Research Assistant at Inje University, he focuses on cutting-edge projects in digital pathology, cancer detection, and medical imaging. Previously, he worked as a Research Assistant at Chungbuk National University, focusing on cardiovascular disease diagnosis using AI. His industry experience includes roles such as Search Expert at PROGOS Tech Company and Software Developer Intern at Hidaya Institute of Science and Technology.

Awards and Honors

🏆 Sikandar has received multiple awards, including the Brain Korean Scholarship, European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (EACCME) Certificate, and recognition as an outstanding Teaching Assistant at Inje University. He has also earned full travel grants for international conferences, extra allowances for R&D industry projects, and certificates for reviewing research papers in leading journals. Additionally, he is a Guest Editor at Frontiers in Digital Health.

Research Focus

🔬 Sikandar’s research focuses on developing AI algorithms for medical imaging, with expertise in weakly supervised learning, self-supervised learning, and digital pathology. His projects include designing AI systems for cancer detection, COVID-19 prediction, and IPF severity classification. He also works on object detection applications using YOLO models and wearable sensor-based activity detection for pets. His commitment to explainability and interpretability in AI models ensures their practical utility in healthcare.

Conclusion

🌟 Sikandar Ali is a dedicated AI researcher driving innovation in healthcare through artificial intelligence. With his strong educational foundation, diverse research experience, and impactful contributions, he aims to bridge the gap between AI and medicine, making healthcare more efficient and accessible.

Publications

Detection of COVID-19 in X-ray Images Using DCSCNN
Sensors 2022, IF: 3.4

A Soft Voting Ensemble-Based Model for IPF Severity Prediction
Life 2021, IF: 3.2

Metaverse in Healthcare Integrated with Explainable AI and Blockchain
Sensors 2023, IF: 3.4

Weakly Supervised Learning for Gastric Cancer Classification Using WSIs
Springer 2023

Classifying Gastric Cancer Stages with Deep Semantic and Texture Features
ICACT 2024

Computer Vision-Based Military Tank Recognition Using YOLO Framework
ICAISC 2023

Activity Detection for Dog Well-being Using Wearable Sensors
IEEE Access 2022

Cat Activity Monitoring Using Wearable Sensors
IEEE Sensors Journal 2023, IF: 4.3

Deep Learning for Algae Species Detection Using Microscopic Images
Water 2022, IF: 2.9

Comprehensive Review on Multiple Instance Learning
Electronics 2023

Hybrid Model for Face Shape Classification Using Ensemble Methods
Springer 2021

Cervical Spine Fracture Detection Using Two-Stage Deep Learning
IEEE Access 2024

 

Ching-Lung Fan | Deep Learning | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ching-Lung Fan | Deep Learning | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, ROC Military Academy, Taiwan

Ching-Lung Fan is an associate professor in Civil Engineering at the Republic of China Military Academy. He completed his Ph.D. in 2019 from the National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology. His professional journey reflects a strong dedication to advancing technology in the construction and civil engineering sectors, particularly through the application of machine learning and deep learning methods. 🏫

Publication Profile

Education

Dr. Fan holds a Master of Science (M.S.) from National Taiwan University (2006) and a Ph.D. from National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology (2019). His academic background underscores his commitment to both theoretical and practical contributions to the field. 🎓

Experience

Dr. Fan started his academic career as an assistant professor at the Republic of China Military Academy in January 2019 and was promoted to associate professor in June 2022. His teaching and research experience has significantly impacted the study of civil engineering, especially through the integration of machine learning and data mining. 🏢

Awards and Honors

Ching-Lung Fan has received several prestigious awards, including the Phi Tau Phi Scholastic Honor (2019), Outstanding Paper Award (2021), Excellent Paper Award (2022), and Best Researcher Award (2024). In 2023, he was honored with membership in Sigma Xi, an esteemed scientific organization. 🏅

Research Focus

Dr. Fan’s research interests are primarily centered around machine learning, deep learning, data mining, construction performance evaluation, and risk management. His work integrates cutting-edge computational methods with civil engineering applications to enhance the quality and efficiency of construction projects. 🤖📊

Conclusion

Dr. Fan’s innovative contributions to civil engineering, particularly in the realm of AI-driven solutions, continue to shape the future of construction and infrastructure development. His ongoing research and recognition in the academic community highlight his expertise and impact in the field. 🌟

Publications

 Integrating image processing technology and deep learning to identify crops in UAV orthoimages. CMC-Computers, Materials & Continua. (Accepted).

Predicting the construction quality of projects by using hybrid soft computing techniques. CMES-Computer Modeling in Engineering & Sciences. (Accepted).

 Evaluation model for crack detection with deep learning—Improved confusion matrix based on linear features. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management (ASCE), 151(3): 04024210. (SCI).

 Evaluating the performance of Taiwan airport renovation projects: An application of multiple attributes intelligent decision analysis. Buildings, 14(10): 3314. (SCI).

Deep neural networks for automated damage classification in image-based visual data of reinforced concrete structures. Heliyon, 10(19): e38104. (SCI).

Multiscale feature extraction by using convolutional neural network: Extraction of objects from multiresolution images of urban areas. ISPRS International Journal of GeoInformation, 13(1): 5. (SCI).

Ground surface structure classification using UAV remote sensing images and machine learning algorithms. Applied Geomatics, 15: 919-931. (ESCI).

 Using convolutional neural networks to identify illegal roofs from unmanned aerial vehicle images. Architectural Engineering and Design Management, 20(2): 390-410. (SCI).

Evaluation of machine learning in recognizing images of reinforced concrete damage. Multimedia Tools and Applications, 82: 30221-30246. (SCI).

 Supervised machine learning–Based detection of concrete efflorescence. Symmetry, 14(11): 284. (SCI).

 

JAINUL FATHIMA | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. JAINUL FATHIMA | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College, India

📘 Dr. A. Jainul Fathima, B.Tech., M.E., Ph.D., is an innovative professor with a strong passion for fostering academic development and success for every student. With 12 years of combined experience in teaching, research, and industry, she excels in implementing technology-based curriculum delivery and assessment tools.

Profile

Scopus

Education🎓

Dr. Fathima holds a Ph.D. in Computational Drug Discovery from Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, where her interdisciplinary research focused on developing anti-viral drugs for dengue targets using AI techniques. She earned her M.E. in Computer Science and Engineering from Anna University with an 83% aggregate and a B.Tech. in Information Technology from Anna University with a 75% aggregate.

Experience 🛠️

👩‍🏫 With 12 years of total experience, Dr. Fathima has 6 years of teaching experience, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Francis Xavier Engineering College. She has previously worked at K.L.N. College of Information Technology, Sethu Institute of Technology, and Kalasalingam University. Her research experience includes 3 years as a UGC Research Fellow and 2 years of teaching and instructing in Qatar. She also has 1 year of industrial experience as a Research Assistant in Computer-Aided Drug Design.

Research Interests 🔍

🔬 Dr. Fathima’s research interests are in the areas of computational drug discovery, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and bioinformatics. Her work focuses on applying advanced computational techniques to predict protein interactions and develop therapeutic solutions for diseases like dengue and Alzheimer’s.

Awards 🏆

🏆 Dr. Fathima has received several accolades, including the “Research Associate Award” from the Anti-viral Research Society in 2022, “Best Paper Award” at INCODS ’17 and NCAC ’09, and the “Outstanding Student Award” from Mepco Schlenk Engineering College.

Publications 📚

A comprehensive review on heart disease prognostication using different artificial intelligence algorithms, Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering, February 2024. Cited by 1.5

Alzheimer’s Patients Detection using Support Vector Machine (SVM) with Quantitative Analysis, Neuroscience Informatics, 2021. Cited by 0.5

IoT-Based Intelligent System for Garbage Level Monitoring in Smart Cities, International Conference on IoT, Communication and Automation Technology, 2023. Scopus Indexed

Intelligent Deep Learning Framework for Breast Cancer Prediction using Feature Ensemble Learning, IEEE Global Conference for Advancement in Technology, 2023. Scopus Indexed

Compressing Biosignal for diagnosing chronic diseases, Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 2021. Scopus Indexed