Ms. ELPIDA ROUSSAKOU | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Ms. ELPIDA ROUSSAKOU | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Phd Candidate, UNIVERSITY OF WEST ATTICA, ATHENS, Greece

Elpida Roussakou is a dedicated Greek public health professional, educator, and researcher with a strong background in hygiene, health and safety, and non-formal education. With a career rooted in improving workplace health standards and food hygiene, she combines academic excellence with hands-on consultancy. She is currently a PhD Candidate in Tourism Management at the University of West Attica and an accomplished lecturer affiliated with Mediterranean College and UK institutions like the University of Derby and University of Wolverhampton. Her diverse experience spans health safety training, HACCP system design, and higher education teaching.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award – Ms. Elpida Roussakou

Ms. Elpida Roussakou demonstrates a strong foundation in public hygiene, health and safety, and interdisciplinary research, particularly in the intersection of health, safety, tourism, and education. Her academic journey, highlighted by a summa cum laude Master’s degree and current PhD candidacy, is supported by a range of professional licenses, certifications, and teaching roles across prestigious academic institutions. Her contributions to scientific literature, especially regarding public health challenges during the economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, show a clear alignment with applied, socially impactful research — a critical criterion for a best research award.

🎓 Education Background

Elpida earned her undergraduate diploma in Public Hygiene from the Τ.Ε.Ι. of Athens, graduating with distinction (8.10/10), and her thesis scored a perfect 10. She further pursued a Master’s degree in “Health and Safety in the Workplace” at the Democritus University of Thrace, graduating summa cum laude with a GPA of 9.15. Her postgraduate journey includes certification as an adult trainer (EOPPEP), a license to practice as a Hygienist and to conduct disinfestation procedures, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (ILTA) from Manchester Metropolitan University.

💼 Professional Experience

Since 2016, Elpida has been actively engaged in her company, Hygioacts, designing HACCP systems and workplace safety plans for over 190 food and beverage companies. She has taught extensively at Mediterranean College in both the Physiotherapy and Psychology departments, delivering modules on research methods, service improvement, and leadership. Additionally, she has conducted certified health and safety training for food service staff under EFET programs through collaborations with companies like Qualiment, GEP, APOPISI KEK, and Eurotraining. Her work bridges academia, professional training, and practical consultancy.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Elpida’s academic achievements are underscored by her summa cum laude graduation from her Master’s program and her high-standing GPA throughout her studies. She is a certified EOPPEP trainer and has earned professional licenses in the fields of public hygiene and pest disinfestation. Her teaching credentials are further validated by her UK postgraduate certificate in higher education instruction.

🔬 Research Focus

Her research primarily centers on public health safety, the impact of socio-economic crises on hygiene practices, food safety in catering, and ethical practices in healthcare, especially during critical periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Her ongoing doctoral work in tourism management also explores health and safety practices in hospitality settings.

📚 Top Publications 

  1. Economic crisis affects modern Greek house conditions: maintenance and heating deterioration
    To Vima tou Asklipiou, 2017, Vol. 16(3), pp. 160-175
    Cited by: 3 articles

  2. Halal Islamic certification in relation to European requirements and international standards in the field of meat. Special National Rules in Greece
    e-Journal of Science & Technology (e-JST), 2018, Vol. 13(3), pp. 13–35
    Cited by: 4 articles

  3. Ethical Issues in Intensive Care Units during the COVID-19 Pandemic
    Indian Journal of Critical Care Medicine, 2021, Vol. 24(9), pp. 855–856
    Cited by: 5 articles

  4. Precaution Measures for the Safety of the Personnel in the Surgical Wards during the COVID-19 Pandemic
    Journal of Hand Surgery Asian-Pacific, 2021, Vol. 26(1), pp. 127–129
    Cited by: 2 articles

  5. New Technologies in Health and Safety in Hotel Restaurants During Covid-19: A Systematic Review
    Springer Proceedings in Business and Economics, 2023, IACuDiT Conference Proceedings
    Cited by: 1 article

 

Xiaodong Feng | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xiaodong Feng | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xiaodong Feng at Shaoxing University, China

Feng Xiaodong, born in June 1987, is an Associate Professor at the School of Civil Engineering, Shaoxing University of Arts and Sciences. Recognized as one of the first leading talents in Zhejiang Province’s 5246 Talent Project and a young talent under Shaoxing’s Special Branch Plan, he specializes in structural engineering. With an international academic footprint and a strong background in intelligent structural systems, Dr. Feng has led numerous national-level projects and published extensively in high-impact journals. His work integrates innovative structural design with smart technologies, contributing significantly to the advancement of flexible and adaptive engineering solutions. 🌉📚🤖

Publication Profile

Scopus

Academic Background

Feng Xiaodong completed his undergraduate studies in Civil Engineering at Central South University (2006–2010), followed by a master’s in Solid Mechanics (2010–2012) and a Ph.D. in Structural Engineering (2012–2016), under Professor Guo Shaohua. He then pursued postdoctoral research at Zhejiang University (2018–2020) with Professor Luo Yaozhi. His academic training spans mechanics, structural analysis, and intelligent systems, providing a robust foundation for his interdisciplinary research. 📘🎓🔬

Professional Experience

Dr. Feng began his academic career at Shaoxing University of Arts and Sciences in 2016 as a Lecturer, advancing to Associate Professor and Laboratory Director in 2021. He also served as a visiting scholar at Kyoto University, Japan (2022–2023). Throughout his career, he has led key research initiatives, mentored students, and collaborated with both academic and industrial partners on advanced structural systems. His experience bridges practical engineering applications and cutting-edge research. 🏢👨‍🏫🌍

Awards and Honors

Feng Xiaodong has received multiple prestigious awards, including two First Prizes and two Second Prizes from the China Steel Structure Association for technological innovation and scientific progress in large-span structures. He also received honors from the Invention and Entrepreneurship Award and Zhejiang Province. These accolades recognize his contributions to the development, design, and digital construction of complex spatial structures, as well as intelligent construction technologies. His pioneering work in structural mechanics and smart infrastructure has earned both national and regional acclaim. 🏆🏗️

Research Focus

Dr. Feng’s research revolves around flexible, movable, and intelligent structures, integrating AI and machine learning for structural design and health monitoring. His key interests include tensegrity structures, prefabricated systems, large-span spatial structures, and structural dynamics. He also focuses on collaborative structural-material design and building industrialization. His interdisciplinary approach combines theoretical innovation with practical applications, aimed at advancing the construction industry’s automation and intelligence. 🤖🧠🏗️📊

Publication Top Notes

📄 Vibration control and robustness analysis of tensegrity structures via fuzzy dynamic sliding mode control method
🗓️ Year: 2024 | 📚 Journal: Structures | 📊 Cited by: 3

📄 Joint learning of structural and textual information on propagation network by graph attention networks for rumor detection
🗓️ Year: 2024 | 📚 Journal: Applied Intelligence | 📊 Cited by: 1

📄 Structural-topic aware deep neural networks for information cascade prediction
🗓️ Year: 2024 | 📚 Journal: PeerJ Computer Science | 📊 Cited by: 1

Conclusion

Dr. Feng Xiaodong, an Associate Professor at Shaoxing University of Arts and Sciences, is a nationally recognized expert in Structural Engineering, specializing in intelligent structures, AI-integrated design, and prefabricated construction technologies. With over 20 peer-reviewed publications in leading journals such as Soft Robotics, Structures, and Structural Control & Health Monitoring, he demonstrates consistent research excellence. As the principal investigator of numerous national and regional research projects, and a recipient of multiple high-level awards from the China Steel Structure Association and Zhejiang Province, Dr. Feng has shown both academic leadership and practical innovation. His international exposure as a Visiting Scholar at Kyoto University and his role in training future engineers across disciplines further underscore his qualifications. Dr. Feng’s contributions significantly advance the field of intelligent structural systems and make him an outstanding candidate for a Best Researcher Award.

 

 

Mr. FERNANDO GARCIA SANZ | Robotic | Best Researcher Award

Mr. FERNANDO GARCIA SANZ | Robotic | Best Researcher Award

Director Rehabilitation, CEMTRO clinic, Spain

Fernando García Sanz  is a highly accomplished physiotherapist and rehabilitation expert with over 25 years of experience in the fields of physiotherapy, injury prevention, and sports rehabilitation. Currently based in Madrid, Spain, he serves as the Director of the Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Department at Hospital CEMTRO, a role he has held since 2008. His career includes prestigious positions, such as personal physiotherapist to Real Madrid Football Club players, and his work emphasizes elite treatment standards for both professional athletes and general patients. Fernando is recognized not only for his hands-on clinical expertise but also for his contributions to education, research, and leadership in healthcare institutions.

Publication Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education Background:

Fernando is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Sciences since 2021. He holds an Executive Master in Advanced Management Program from IE Business School (2019–2021), a Master’s Degree in Directing and Managing Health Institutions from University Pontificia de Salamanca (2016–2017), and an Expert Title in Manipulative Therapy from the CAR of San Cugat (2014–2015). His academic path also includes a Master’s in Sports Physiotherapy from European University of Madrid (2009–2010), where his award-winning thesis was published, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Therapy from University Pontificia de Salamanca (1995–1998). 📘📚

💼 Professional Experience:

Fernando’s career is distinguished by his leadership at Hospital CEMTRO since 2000, where he rose from physiotherapist to department director. Under his leadership, the department became a FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, handling over 90,000 sessions annually. He was also Director of the Sport Injury Center (2010–2012) and served for 15 years as a physiotherapist at Real Madrid CF (1998–2013), managing injury recovery and rehabilitation for elite athletes. His early clinical work included roles at San Rafael and Pío XII Hospitals. 🏥⚽

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Fernando contributed significantly to Hospital CEMTRO’s recognition as one of only 49 FIFA Centers of Medical Excellence worldwide 🌍. His master’s thesis earned Summa Cum Laude honors, and he is frequently invited as a speaker on national TV and at top medical conferences. He is a recognized expert member of ASEPI and the Official College of Physiotherapists of Madrid.

🔬 Research Focus:

His research interests include invasive physiotherapy techniques, tendinopathies, cartilage injuries, eccentric training, and sports injury prevention and recovery. Fernando integrates clinical experience with academic knowledge through his teaching and his company EXEFF, where he trains advanced physiotherapists. He has published in top journals and contributed to textbooks and international guidelines. 🧬📝

✅ Conclusion:

Fernando García Sanz is a trailblazer in physiotherapy and rehabilitation in Spain, blending hands-on excellence with visionary leadership and scholarly insight. His commitment to elite sports health, education, and continuous learning cements his reputation as a foremost authority in physiotherapy and sports medicine. 🏅📈

📚 Top Publications :

Effect of the invasive treatment through dry needling about the tolerance to the myofascial pain in the infraspinatus muscle
📅 Year: 2011 | 📖 Journal: Cuestiones de Fisioterapia
📊 Cited by: ~20 articles (approximate based on indexing databases)

Physiotherapy after Cartilage Repair – ICRS Newsletter
📅 Year: 2011 | 📖 Journal: ICRS Newsletter
📊 Cited by: Multiple clinical reference works and therapy guidelines

The strength training as active-assisted exercise therapy in Cinesiterapia: Physiological Basis and Practical Application
📅 Year: 2013 | 📖 Publisher: Elsevier
📊 Cited by: Multiple academic book reviews and physiotherapy courses

Treatment of glenohumeral internal rotation deficit in the general population with shoulder pain. An open single-arm clinical trial
📅 Year: 2023 | 📖 Journal: Medicine (Baltimore)
📊 Cited by: 5+ clinical studies and orthopedic therapy reviews

Sabyrzhan Atanov | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sabyrzhan Atanov | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

professor, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Kazakhstan

Dr. Atanov Sabyrzhan Kubeisinovich is a distinguished Doctor of Technical Sciences and Professor at the Department of Computer and Software Engineering, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. With a Hirsch index of 8, he has made remarkable contributions to computer science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. He is an active member of multiple prestigious scientific councils and academies in Kazakhstan, contributing to advancements in national security, defense, and mining sciences. His expertise spans software development, cryptography, AI-driven robotic systems, and UAV navigation, making him a leading researcher and innovator in his field.

Publication Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Atanov has a strong academic foundation with a Doctorate in Technical Sciences (2010), specializing in Mathematical and Software Support for Computing Machines, Complexes, and Computer Networks. He earned his Candidate of Technical Sciences degree (1989) from Moscow Power Engineering Institute, focusing on software for electromechanical field calculations using the finite element method. His undergraduate studies (1979) were completed at Moscow Technical University of Communications and Informatics, specializing in space radio communications.

💼 Experience

Dr. Atanov has been a professor at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University since 2006, shaping future engineers in computer and software engineering. He has played vital roles in Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Higher Education, Ministry of Education and Science, and the National Scientific Council. His research has led to cutting-edge advancements in AI-driven robotics, UAV control, and cybersecurity. As a principal investigator, he has successfully led multiple international projects in robotics, AI, and neural network-based spacecraft control systems.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Atanov’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including being a two-time recipient of the “Best University Teacher” award (2007, 2018) from the Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan. He has received the USSR State Committee Prize (1989) for research in space systems. His distinguished honors include the “Honorary Signalman” badge, “Honorary Miner” badge, and “For Contribution to Military Science” badge. Additionally, he has been recognized with honorary certificates and diplomas for his outstanding service in education and research.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Atanov specializes in intelligent control systems for spacecraft, UAV navigation, cryptographic security, and AI-driven robotics. His work encompasses microprocessor and FPGA-based systems, wireless and fiber-optic communication, and IoT security. He has played a pivotal role in the development of AI-powered reconnaissance robots, cybersecurity frameworks for cellular networks, and cryptographic protocols for secure data transmission. His research has been instrumental in advancing Kazakhstan’s technological infrastructure in defense and national security.

🔍 Conclusion

Dr. Atanov Sabyrzhan Kubeisinovich is a pioneering figure in AI-driven automation, cybersecurity, and UAV technologies. With extensive research, leadership in national scientific councils, and a track record of groundbreaking projects, he continues to push the boundaries of technological innovation in Kazakhstan and beyond. His contributions to national security, robotics, and data protection make him an indispensable expert in the global scientific community. 🚀

📚 Publications

Intelligent voice control system for UAV with mobile robot (2025) – Indonesian Journal of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science DOI: 10.11591/ijeecs.v38.i2.pp1061-1072

Application of Quantum Key Distribution to Enhance Data Security in Agrotechnical Monitoring Systems Using UAVs (2025) – Applied Sciences DOI: 10.3390/app15052429

About one lightweight encryption algorithm ensuring the security of data transmission and communication between IoT devices (2024) – International Journal of Electrical and Computer Engineering DOI: 10.11591/ijece.v14i6.pp6846-6860

Improved unmanned aerial vehicle control for efficient obstacle detection and data protection (2024) – IAES International Journal of Artificial Intelligence DOI: 10.11591/ijai.v13.i3.pp3576-3587

Enhancing cryptographic protection, authentication, and authorization in cellular networks (2024) – International Journal of Electrical and Computer Engineering DOI: 10.11591/ijece.v14i1.pp479-487

Algorithm of Coordination of Swarm of Autonomous Robots (2023) – IEEE Conference Paper DOI: 10.1109/SIST58284.2023.10223555

Development of control software for self-organizing intelligent mobile robots (2023) – Eastern-European Journal of Enterprise Technologies DOI: 10.15587/1729-4061.2023.277840

 

Zahid Ullah | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zahid Ullah | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

PhD Student, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

Zahid Ullah is a passionate researcher in mechanical and electrical engineering, currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand. With an extensive background in teaching and research, Zahid has significantly contributed to various fields, including human-robot interaction, control systems, and renewable energy technologies. His diverse academic and professional experiences make him a well-rounded academic committed to innovation. 🌍🔧

Publication Profile

ORCID

Education:

Zahid Ullah holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Chulalongkorn University (ongoing), an M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering from Abasyn University, Peshawar, Pakistan, and an M.Sc. in Mathematics from the University of Science and Technology, Bannu, Pakistan. He also earned a B.Sc. in Electronics Engineering from the University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Peshawar, Pakistan. 🎓📚

Experience:

Zahid has served as a research assistant and lecturer in various academic institutions in Pakistan, including Abasyn University, Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology, and the Government Polytechnic Institute, Mardan. His experience spans teaching mathematics, physics, and engineering subjects, conducting lab practicals, and guiding students through their academic journeys. He has also participated in numerous national and international conferences and training programs. 🧑‍🏫🔬

Research Focus:

Zahid’s research interests lie in robotics, human-robot interaction, control systems, renewable energy systems, and sensor fault detection. His work in impedance modulation through electromagnetic brakes in physical human-robot interaction and MPPT control techniques for wind energy systems demonstrates his innovative approach to addressing technological challenges. 🤖⚡

Awards and Honors:

Zahid has earned certifications in Big Data Analytics, Control Automation, and SCADA/HMI implementation. His participation in international programs like the Sakura Science Exchange Program in Japan and the IEEE Robotics Competition in Thailand highlights his active involvement in global scientific communities. 🏆🌟

Publication Top Notes:

Zahid Ullah has co-authored impactful research, including publications on variable damping actuators in robotics and sensor fault detection in UAVs. His work has been cited in various prestigious journals, contributing to advancements in robotics and energy systems. 📑🔗

Ullah, Zahid, Ronnapee Chaichaowarat, and Witaya Wannasuphoprasit. “Variable Damping Actuator Using an Electromagnetic Brake for Impedance Modulation in Physical Human–Robot Interaction.” Robotics 12, no. 3 (2023): 80. Cited by Robotics journal (2023)

Maqsood, Hamid, et al. “Novel sensor fault detection and isolation for an unmanned aerial vehicle.” In IEEE IBCAST (2021), pp. 486-493. Cited by IEEE (2021)

Khan, Umar Habib, et al. “Backstepping based MPPT control technique for permanent magnet synchronous generator wind energy conversion system.” In IEEE iCoMET (2020), pp. 1-7. Cited by IEEE (2020)

 

Francisco M. Sánchez Margallo | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Francisco M. Sánchez Margallo | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Scientific Director, Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre, Spain

🎓 Dr. Francisco M. Sánchez Margallo is a distinguished expert in minimally invasive surgery, currently serving as the Scientific Director of the Jesús Usón Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery. With a Doctorate Cum Laude from the University of Extremadura, he has been instrumental in advancing surgical technologies, leading numerous national and European research projects, and contributing significantly to clinical practices. He is a member of various prestigious surgical and research societies and continues to drive innovation in the field.

Publication Profile

Strengths for the Award

  • Extensive Leadership in Minimally Invasive Surgery: Dr. Francisco M. Sánchez Margallo has a distinguished career, leading the Jesús Usón Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery, a world-renowned institution in research and surgical training. His leadership roles, including being the Scientific Director since 2007, demonstrate his capability to lead cutting-edge research and innovation in the field.
  • Significant Research Contributions: He has led and collaborated in over 100 national and European research projects, highlighting his impact on the advancement of minimally invasive techniques. His participation in the publication of 260 articles in high-impact journals and contributions to books and book chapters underline his research excellence.
  • Clinical Innovation: His work in developing and transferring minimally invasive techniques to clinical practice, such as laparoscopic Heineke-Mikulicz pyloroplasty and thoracoscopic cardiac surgery, showcases his ability to bridge the gap between research and real-world clinical applications.
  • International Collaboration and Recognition: His involvement in international expert committees and groups like the Natural Orifice Surgery (NOTES) and Single Port Surgery (LESS) positions him as a global leader in surgical innovation. His active role in various prestigious organizations and platforms further cements his reputation.
  • Educational Leadership: Dr. Sánchez Margallo has supervised 35 doctoral theses and directed numerous academic programs, contributing significantly to the education and training of future specialists in Health Sciences. His role in directing over 650 courses and training stays speaks to his commitment to knowledge dissemination.
  • Innovative Projects and Funding: His leadership in significant European projects, such as the Erasmus+ Project and the Innovative Public Procurement Project for surgical robotics, demonstrates his ability to secure funding and lead large-scale, impactful research initiatives.

Areas for Improvement

  • Broader Impact Beyond Specialized Fields: While Dr. Sánchez Margallo’s contributions to minimally invasive surgery and related areas are profound, expanding his research impact to broader surgical fields or interdisciplinary areas could further enhance his qualifications for the Best Researcher Award.
  • Increased Public Engagement: Although he has contributed significantly to academic and clinical communities, increasing his public engagement, such as through public lectures, media presence, or popular science publications, could enhance his visibility and influence beyond the academic sphere.
  • Focus on Emerging Technologies: While he has been involved in surgical robotics and advanced therapies, further emphasis on emerging technologies such as AI in surgery or precision medicine could position him as a leader in the next frontier of medical research.

 

Education

📚 Dr. Sánchez Margallo earned his Doctorate Cum Laude from the University of Extremadura (UEX) in 1999, a distinction that also earned him the National Award from the Royal Academy of Doctors.

Experience

💼 Dr. Sánchez Margallo joined the Jesús Usón Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery in 1995 as Endoscopy Coordinator. Over the years, he has assumed increasing responsibilities, including Laparoscopy Coordinator, Director of the Surgical Area (2000), and eventually becoming the Scientific Director in 2007. His expertise has been pivotal in numerous high-impact research projects and clinical advancements in minimally invasive techniques.

Research Focus

🔬 Dr. Sánchez Margallo’s research primarily revolves around minimally invasive techniques and surgical technologies. He has been a part of over 100 national and European research projects, making significant contributions to laparoscopic surgery, thoracoscopic cardiac surgery, and surgical robotics. His work has led to the development of innovative procedures, such as laparoscopic Heineke-Mikulicz pyloroplasty and prostatic artery microembolization.

Awards and Honors

🏆 Dr. Sánchez Margallo has been recognized with the prestigious National Award from the Royal Academy of Doctors and has been accredited by the National Agency for Quality Assessment and Accreditation (ANECA). He holds leadership positions in multiple international and national surgical societies and research platforms.

Publications Top Notes

📖 Dr. Sánchez Margallo has published 260 articles in high-impact journals, contributed to several books and book chapters, and holds numerous industrial property registrations. His work is widely cited, reflecting his influence in the field of minimally invasive surgery.

Laparoscopic Heineke-Mikulicz Pyloroplasty: A Novel Approach in Minimally Invasive SurgeryYear: 2010, Journal of Minimally Invasive Surgery – Cited by: 45 articles.

Microembolization of the Prostatic Artery: Advancing Urological ProceduresYear: 2012, Urology Journal – Cited by: 60 articles.

Innovations in Thoracoscopic Cardiac SurgeryYear: 2015, Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery – Cited by: 38 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Francisco M. Sánchez Margallo is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His extensive leadership in minimally invasive surgery, significant research contributions, clinical innovations, and international recognition make him a standout figure in his field. While broadening his impact and increasing public engagement could enhance his profile, his current achievements clearly demonstrate excellence in research and innovation. He is well-deserving of recognition for his contributions to the advancement of surgical techniques and medical research.

 

Behnaz Sohani | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Behnaz Sohani | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Assistant professor, Loughborough University, United Kingdom

Dr. Behnaz Sohani is an accomplished academic and researcher in Robotics and Biomedical Engineering, specializing in object and scene recognition, assistive robotics, rehabilitation systems, and healthcare robotics. She currently serves as a Co-Director of the Biorobotics and Healthcare/Medical Technologies (BMTec) Laboratory and as a Lecturer in Robotics at the University of Lincoln. With over 16 years of experience in education, research, and administration, Dr. Sohani is passionate about advancing technology and improving healthcare through innovative robotics solutions. 🚀🤖📚

Profile

  • Scopus
  • ORCID
  • Google Scholar

    Strengths for the Award

    1. Community-Oriented Research: Dr. Behnaz Sohani’s work in robotics and biomedical engineering has a clear impact on community health and well-being. Her research focuses on developing assistive and healthcare robotics, which directly benefits individuals with medical conditions and those needing rehabilitation. The development of medical imaging devices and intelligent robots aligns well with the award’s focus on community impact.
    2. Innovative Contributions: Dr. Sohani has been involved in groundbreaking projects, such as designing imaging devices for early detection of brain strokes and cancers. Her use of AI and advanced technologies in healthcare demonstrates innovation that addresses significant community health challenges.
    3. Leadership and Collaboration: As the Co-Director of the Biorobotics and Healthcare/Medical Technologies Laboratory, she has shown strong leadership in driving impactful research projects. Her ability to collaborate with both academic and industrial partners, including medical professionals, enhances the relevance and application of her research.
    4. Educational Impact: Dr. Sohani’s role as a lecturer and mentor at the University of Lincoln contributes to shaping the next generation of engineers and researchers. Her teaching covers a broad spectrum of robotics and biomedical engineering topics, ensuring that her knowledge and passion are shared with students who can continue to drive community-oriented innovations.
    5. Grants and Recognition: Securing significant grants, such as those from the Royal Society and European Regional Development Fund, underscores her ability to attract funding for projects with high community impact. Her successful grant applications reflect recognition and validation from the research community and funding bodies.

    Areas for Improvement

    1. Broader Community Engagement: While Dr. Sohani’s work is impactful within academic and healthcare circles, increasing outreach to broader community stakeholders could enhance the visibility and accessibility of her innovations. Engaging more directly with community organizations or public health initiatives could amplify her research’s community impact.
    2. Communication of Impact: Dr. Sohani’s CV highlights numerous achievements and research outputs but could benefit from more explicit examples of how her work has directly improved or benefited community members. Providing case studies or testimonials could better illustrate the tangible benefits of her research.
    3. Public Awareness: Increasing public awareness about the practical applications of her research could further strengthen the case for the award. This could involve more public engagement activities, such as workshops, seminars, or media outreach, to showcase how her technologies are being used in real-world scenarios.

       

      Education

      Dr. Sohani earned her PhD in Robotics and Biomedical Engineering from London South Bank University (2017-2021). Her doctoral research focused on medical imaging for diagnostic applications, particularly in detecting brain abnormalities using microwave imaging. 🧠🎓

      Experience

      Dr. Sohani has held various academic and research positions. Since January 2021, she has been a Lecturer in Robotics and Biomedical Engineering and the Lead and Director of the BMTec Laboratory at the University of Lincoln. Her roles include generating research income, publishing research outputs, and delivering high-quality teaching programs. Previously, she served as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at London South Bank University, where she designed medical devices augmented by AI. 📊🧪👩‍🏫

      Research Interests

      Dr. Sohani’s research interests encompass robotics and biomedical engineering, with a focus on assistive robotics, healthcare robotics, path planning, real-time control, computer vision, signal processing, and AI technologies. She is dedicated to advancing the early detection and management of medical conditions and addressing critical healthcare challenges through innovative robotic solutions. 🤖🩺🔍

      Awards

      Dr. Sohani has received several prestigious awards and grants, including successful grant applications to the Royal Society (£70K), being the principal investigator on three research projects funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and her PhD funding from the European Union’s Horizon research & innovation program under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Grant Agreement. 🏆🎓💼

       Publications

      1. Revolutionizing Demand Response Management: Empowering Consumers through Power Aggregator and Right of Flexibility.” Energies 17.6: 1419, (2024). Cited by 3 articles
      2. Aliyu, M. et al. “An artificial neural network model for the prediction of entrained droplet fraction in annular gas-liquid two-phase flow in vertical pipes.” International Journal of Multiphase Flow 164 (2023): 104452. Cited by 2 articles
      3. Nnadi, S. et al. “Development, Experimental, and Numerical Characterisation of Novel Flexible Strain Sensors for Soft Robotics Applications”, Robotics, 13(7), 103, (2024). Cited by 5 articles
      4. Webber, M., et al. “A techno-economic review of direct air capture of moisture processes: sustainable versus energy-intensive methods.” International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology: 1-35, (2024). Cited by 7 article
      5. Sohani, B. et al. “Developing a Comprehensive Model for the Prevention of Tension Neck Syndrome: A Focus on Musculoskeletal Disorder Prevention Strategies.” Advanced Robotics and Automation (WRC SARA), Beijing, China, pp. 541-548. IEEE, (2023). Cited by 4 articles

       

Heung-Shik Lee | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Heung-Shik Lee | Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Joongbu University, South Korea

Heung-Shik Lee is a distinguished professor and the Dean of the Department of Electrical Electronic and Automotive Engineering at Joongbu University since 2016. 🌟 With a solid background as a technical advisory member for the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Ministry of Environment, Prof. Lee has made significant contributions to the field. Prior to his current role, he was a professional researcher at the High Energy Materials Specialized Research Center at the Agency for Defense Development in Korea and a Research Fellow at the University of Texas at Dallas. 🌐

Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Innovative Research Focus: Prof. Lee has developed an autonomous small mobility robot that addresses a significant challenge—exploring underground facilities where traditional communication methods like Wi-Fi and GPS are not viable. This innovation has practical implications for improving infrastructure management and safety.
  2. Significant Contributions: His research directly impacts community safety and efficiency by enabling precise location information of underground pipes and exploration results. This is crucial for maintaining and managing infrastructure, which benefits public services and safety.
  3. Professional Expertise: Prof. Lee’s extensive experience in both academic and industry settings, including his advisory roles with government ministries and his background in high-energy materials research, highlights his deep expertise and the relevance of his work.
  4. Research Output: With 48 journal publications, 14 patents, and numerous consultancy projects, Prof. Lee demonstrates a high level of productivity and impact in his field. His citation index of 270 further supports the influence and recognition of his work.
  5. Collaborations and Memberships: His collaborations with institutions like Inha University and his advisory roles show his active engagement in advancing his field and contributing to broader technological and academic communities.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Community Engagement: While his research has clear practical applications, additional details on community involvement or outreach efforts could strengthen his case. Demonstrating direct interactions with or benefits to local communities might add further value to his nomination.
  2. Broader Impact: Highlighting specific case studies or real-world implementations of his technology could provide a clearer picture of the community impact. Evidence of successful commercial applications or user feedback would enhance the assessment of his contributions.
  3. Detailed Metrics: Providing more specific metrics or examples of how his research has directly benefited communities or led to tangible improvements would strengthen the nomination. This could include details on cost savings, safety improvements, or efficiency gains from his innovations.

Education

Prof. Lee has an extensive academic foundation, holding advanced degrees in engineering, which underpin his expertise in smart materials and automotive applications. 📚

Experience

His professional journey includes notable positions such as serving as a technical advisor and contributing to multiple research and consultancy projects. His expertise extends to autonomous control, smart materials, sensors, and structural safety. 🚀

Research Interests

Prof. Lee’s research focuses on smart material-based automotive applications, autonomous control systems, and advanced sensors and actuators. His innovative work includes the development of autonomous small mobility robots for underground facility exploration using AI technology. 🤖

Awards

Prof. Lee is nominated for the Best Researcher Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the field of engineering and technology. 🏆

Publications

Multiple IMU sensor fusion using resolution refinement method to reduce quantization error