Aaron Finley | Business Intelligence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Aaron Finley | Business Intelligence | Research Excellence Award

Assistant Professor at Macau University of Science and Technology | Macau

Dr. Aaron Finley is a researcher at the Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, with expertise in Business Intelligence, data-driven policy analysis, and applied econometric modeling. His research focuses on the intersection of sustainability analytics, environmental economics, public health modeling, and advanced statistical methodologies. Dr. Finley has made significant scholarly contributions in evaluating carbon pricing instruments and their effectiveness in reducing emissions across major Asian economies, providing evidence-based insights for climate policy optimization. His work on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in relation to business environments demonstrates the practical application of multivariate analysis techniques such as canonical correlation analysis in regional economic systems.

In addition to sustainability and economic modeling, Dr. Finley’s interdisciplinary research extends into public health analytics, where he applies predictive modeling, diffusion theory, and cost-effectiveness analysis to pandemic response strategies, vaccination behaviors, and lung cancer screening programs in Asia. His studies published in BMC Medicine, Journal of Thoracic Disease, Sustainable Futures, and Sustainability highlight his ability to translate complex data into actionable policy insights. Through the integration of business intelligence frameworks with health and environmental datasets, Dr. Finley’s research supports informed decision-making in government, healthcare, and sustainability-focused institutions. His growing citation impact reflects the relevance and applicability of his work across multiple high-impact domains.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Finley, A., He, W., Huang, H., & Hon, C. (2024). Analyzing the effectiveness of carbon pricing instruments in reducing carbon emissions in major Asian economies. Sustainability, 16(23), 10542.
    Citation Count: 5

  • Finley, A., He, W., Huang, H., & Hon, C. (2025). A canonical correlation analysis on the relation of environmental, social, governance (ESG) on business environment (paying taxes) in South China. Sustainable Futures, 10, 101369.

  • Zhang, X., Shi, W., Liu, Z., Finley, A., Cen, K., Xie, Z., Yang, P., Li, H., & Leong, U. (2025). Adaptive Fourier decomposition analysis of different pandemic stages in South Korean cities: Policies and trends. Journal of Thoracic Disease, 17(6), 3516–3531.

  • Zhang, T., Wang, Y., Chen, X., Yang, X., Zhang, L., Bazzi, N., Bai, L., & Finley, A. (2025). Cost-effectiveness of risk model-based lung cancer screening in smokers and nonsmokers in China. BMC Medicine, 23(1), 315.

  • He, W., Wu, J., Chen, C. H., Finley, A., Wang, H., Huang, H., Ng, C., & Chui, T. (2025). Predicting COVID-19 vaccination timing by integrating the theory of planned behavior and the diffusion of innovations: A cross-sectional survey in Macao, China. Journal of Thoracic Disease, 17(5), 2813.

Zahid Sarwar | Big Data Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zahid Sarwar | Big Data Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher | Shanxi University | China 

Dr. Zahid Sarwar is a dedicated academic and researcher in the field of Business Management, currently serving as a postdoctoral researcher at Shanxi University, China. He earned his Ph.D. in Business Management from Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, Dalian, China, where his dissertation focused on enhancing innovativeness through digital capabilities. Dr. Sarwar’s research spans various topics, including strategic management, technology management, digitalization, and sustainable business strategies, all of which are critical to modern organizational success. With a strong background in both theoretical knowledge and practical application, he continues to contribute valuable insights to the academic community, with a focus on the intersection of technology and strategy.

Profile

Scholar

Education

Dr. Sarwar’s academic journey is marked by a robust foundation in Business Management and related fields. He completed his Ph.D. at Dongbei University of Finance and Economics in 2023, where his research examined the role of digital capabilities in enhancing innovation within organizations. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned a Master’s in Project Management from COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Abbottabad, Pakistan, where he achieved a CGPA of 3.37/4.0. His undergraduate studies in Business Administration were completed at Gomal University, Pakistan, in 2014, where he graduated with a CGPA of 2970/4200. These academic credentials, along with his diverse experiences, have equipped him with a deep understanding of business management and research methodologies.

Experience

Dr. Sarwar’s professional experience is a combination of research and practical roles. As a postdoctoral researcher at Shanxi University, his current work explores key topics such as information technology, sustainable strategies, and digitalization in management. Before this, he worked as a full-time research assistant at Iqra National University, Pakistan, where he assisted Dr. Ali with various research projects. Additionally, he gained industry experience as an administrative assistant at Lucky Cement Factory Ltd., assisting in routine administrative and procurement activities. These roles have helped Dr. Sarwar develop not only his research skills but also a strong ability to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

Research Interest

Dr. Sarwar’s research interests lie at the intersection of strategic management, digital transformation, and innovation. He is particularly interested in understanding how digital platforms, big data analytics, and technological capabilities can enhance organizational innovation and performance. His work also delves into sustainable business practices, including the role of organizational culture and strategic alignment in fostering long-term business success. Dr. Sarwar is passionate about exploring the dynamic capabilities that organizations can leverage to remain competitive in an increasingly digitalized business environment. His research has profound implications for managers and policymakers seeking to drive innovation through technology and sustainability.

Awards

Dr. Sarwar’s research excellence has been recognized by numerous academic institutions. He received an Honorary Credential Certificate from Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, highlighting his exceptional contributions to the field. He was also awarded the First Prize for Outstanding Paper in 2023 and the Second Prize for Outstanding Paper in 2022, both by Dongbei University of Finance and Economics. These awards reflect his ability to produce high-quality, impactful research that resonates within the academic community. His work continues to be acknowledged for its rigor and relevance in advancing the field of Business Management.

Publications

Dr. Sarwar’s publication record reflects his expertise in strategic management, digitalization, and sustainability. Notable publications include:

Sarwar, Z., Gao, J., & Khan, A. (2024). Nexus of digital platforms, innovation capability, and strategic alignment to enhance innovation performance in the Asia Pacific region: A dynamic capability perspective. Asia Pacific Journal of Management, 41(2), 867-901.

Sarwar, Z., Song, Z. H., Ali, S. T., Khan, M. A., & Ali, F. (2025). Unveiling the path to innovation: Exploring the roles of big data analytics management capabilities, strategic agility, and strategic alignment. Journal of Innovation & Knowledge, 10(1), 100643.

Sarwar, Z., & Song, Z. (2024). How to improve sustainable business performance: Examining the roles of organizational rationale for sustainability and green organizational culture. Sustainability Accounting, Management and Policy Journal. (Publishing soon)

Gao, J., & Sarwar, Z. (2024). How do firms create business value and dynamic capabilities by leveraging big data analytics management capability? Information Technology and Management, 25(3), 283-304.

Sarwar, Z., & Song, Z. (2023). Machiavellianism and affective commitment as predictors of unethical pro-organization behavior: exploring the moderating role of moral disengagement. Kybernetes.

Sarwar, Z., Khan, M. A., Yang, Z., Khan, A., Haseeb, M., & Sarwar, A. (2021). An Investigation of Entrepreneurial SMEs’ Network Capability and Social Capital to Accomplish Innovativeness: A Dynamic Capability Perspective. SAGE Open, 11(3).

Sarwar, Z., Khan, M. A., & Sarwar, A. (2021). The strategic management model for COVID-19: a race against time: evidence from People’s Republic of China. Gomal University Journal of Research, 37(3), 278-286.

Conclusion

Dr. Zahid Sarwar’s career trajectory showcases a profound commitment to advancing the field of Business Management through rigorous research and scholarship. His focus on digital transformation, sustainable strategies, and innovation reflects the growing demands of today’s global business environment. With numerous publications in top-tier journals and several prestigious awards, Dr. Sarwar has established himself as a significant contributor to both academic knowledge and practical business strategies. His continued research endeavors at Shanxi University promise to further advance our understanding of the complex relationships between digital capabilities, innovation, and sustainability, positioning him as a future leader in his field.