David Trafimow | Causal Inference | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. David Trafimow | Causal Inference | Best Researcher Award

Distinguished Achievement Professor at New Mexico State University, United States

David Trafimow is a distinguished professor of psychology at New Mexico State University, renowned for his contributions to social cognition and psychological methodology. With an academic career spanning over three decades, he has significantly influenced the understanding of self-cognitions, behavior determinants, and statistical approaches in psychology. His work extends to philosophical and methodological issues in psychological research, emphasizing critical perspectives on traditional statistical practices. As an educator, researcher, and thought leader, Trafimow has made a lasting impact on both theoretical and applied psychology.

Profile

Orcid

Education

David Trafimow holds a Ph.D. in Social Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which he earned in January 1993. Prior to that, he completed an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Indiana University, Bloomington, in May 1988. His foundational education in psychology began with a B.A. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1984. His diverse academic background has equipped him with a multifaceted perspective on cognitive and behavioral psychology.

Professional Experience

Trafimow has been a professor at New Mexico State University since August 2001, having previously served as an associate professor from 1998 to 2001 and an assistant professor from 1994 to 1998. Before joining New Mexico State University, he was an assistant professor at Virginia Tech from 1992 to 1994. Over the years, he has played a crucial role in shaping the curriculum and research direction in psychology, mentoring students and contributing to the broader academic community.

Research Interests

His research primarily focuses on social cognition, particularly how self-cognitions are structured and how they interact with determinants of behavior, such as attitudes, norms, and control beliefs. Additionally, he delves into attribution processes, cognitive and affective mechanisms, and theoretical and methodological aspects of psychology. Trafimow has also contributed significantly to the critique and improvement of statistical methodologies used in psychological research, emphasizing the limitations of traditional significance testing and advocating for alternative approaches.

Awards

Trafimow has received multiple recognitions for his contributions to psychology, particularly for his work in methodological rigor and theoretical advancements. His efforts in challenging conventional statistical practices and proposing alternative inferential methods have earned him respect in the academic community. His recognition extends across various professional organizations and psychology journals that have acknowledged his innovative contributions to research methodologies.

Publications

Trafimow, D. (2024). Distinguishing between models and hypotheses: Implications for significance testing. Meta-Psychology, 8, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.15626/MP.2021.2957

Trafimow, D., & Fiedler, K. (in press). An exploration of physics envy with implications for desiderata of psychology theories. American Psychologist.

Trafimow, D. (in press). Theory-refuting findings in psychology: How much should they matter? Journal for the Theory of Social Behaviour.

St Quinton, T., & Trafimow, D. (2025). Meaning in life research: The importance of considering auxiliary assumptions. The Journal of Positive Psychology, 32(6), 1-10. doi: 10.1080/17439760.2025.2459389

Trafimow, D., Hout, M. C., & Conway, A. R. A. (in press). A nuanced view of the extent to which samples from narrow populations are scientifically problematic. American Psychologist.

Fiedler, K., & Trafimow, D. (in press). Using theoretical constraints and the TASI taxonomy to delineate predictably replicable findings. Psychonomic Bulletin & Review.

Trafimow, D. (2024). Replicating is difficult, but necessary, and methodology can help. Theory & Psychology, 34(5), 591-596. doi: 10.1177/09593543241265912

Conclusion

David Trafimow’s career exemplifies a commitment to advancing psychological science through rigorous research and critical inquiry into existing methodologies. His extensive work on social cognition, behavioral determinants, and statistical inference has significantly influenced the field. By challenging conventional statistical approaches and exploring alternative frameworks, he has contributed to the evolution of psychological research practices. As a professor, researcher, and thought leader, his impact continues to shape the discipline, fostering innovation and deeper understanding in psychology.

Abdultaofeek Abayomi | Machine Learning | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Abdultaofeek Abayomi | Machine Learning | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Walter Sisulu University, South Africa

ABDULTAOFEEK ABAYOMI, Ph.D., is a distinguished academic and researcher with a rich career in Information Technology and Computer Science. He holds a Ph.D. from Durban University of Technology, South Africa, and has been an influential figure in various educational institutions, including Mangosuthu University of Technology, where he served as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow and Lecturer. His extensive experience spans roles in teaching, research, and industry, with a specific focus on ICT, machine learning, and telecommunications. Dr. Abayomi’s contributions extend beyond academia, having held positions in major banks and IT firms, where he influenced projects in system analysis, IT infrastructure, and banking operations.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Abayomi’s academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Computer Science from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, where he graduated with a Second Class Upper Division. This was followed by a Master’s in Technology (Computer Science) and an MBA from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Information Technology at Durban University of Technology, South Africa, where his doctoral research explored real-time tracking of individuals in distress situations using physiological signals, a significant contribution to the field of IT and human-centered computing.

Experience

Dr. Abayomi’s professional career spans teaching, research, and leadership roles in the technology sector. He has lectured and conducted research at various universities, including Durban University of Technology and Mangosuthu University of Technology in South Africa. Additionally, he has worked as a system analyst and instructor for IT certifications such as MCSE and MCSA at JIT Solutions in Akure, Nigeria. His career in the banking sector includes roles as a Profit Centre Manager and ICT System Administrator at United Bank for Africa Plc., where he contributed to improving operational efficiency and implementing IT solutions. Dr. Abayomi has also been involved in research projects aimed at addressing pressing issues in ICT and society, particularly focusing on the intersection of technology and human needs.

Research Interests

Dr. Abayomi’s research interests lie at the convergence of Information Technology, machine learning, and network systems. His work has explored deep learning, cognitive radio networks, spectrum sensing, and software-defined networks. He is particularly interested in the application of artificial intelligence to solve real-world problems, such as dynamic spectrum access and health insurance prediction. Dr. Abayomi’s research aims to improve the way technology interacts with human and environmental factors, making significant contributions to both academic and applied research.

Awards

Dr. Abayomi has received numerous accolades in recognition of his academic and research excellence. He was honored with the Research Award for Most Productive Postdoctoral Research Fellow in 2022 at Mangosuthu University of Technology, South Africa. He has also been an active participant in international conferences, serving as a session chair for various events such as the 22nd International Conference on Hybrid Intelligent Systems in 2022 and the 13th International Conference on Soft Computing and Pattern Recognition in 2021. His contributions to research are further exemplified by his involvement in winning the South African National Research Foundation’s Infrastructure Bridging Funding in 2016.

Publications

Dr. Abayomi’s scholarly work is well-regarded in academic circles, with several impactful publications in peer-reviewed journals. His notable publications include:

Ukpong, U.C., Idowu-Bismark, O., Adetiba, E., Kala, J.R., Owolabi, E., Oshin, O., Abayomi, A., Dare, O.E. (2025). “Deep reinforcement learning agents for dynamic spectrum access in television whitespace cognitive radio networks.” Scientific African, 27, e02523.

Dare, O.E., Okokpujie, K., Adetiba, E., Idowu-Bismark, O., Abayomi, A., Kala, R.J., Owolabi, E., Ukpong, U.C. (2024). “Development of a Conditional Generative Adversarial Network Model for Television Spectrum Radio Environment Mapping.” IEEE Access, 12, 197632-197644.

Mavundla, K., Thakur, S., Adetiba, E., Abayomi, A. (2024). “Predicting Cross-Selling Health Insurance Products Using Machine-Learning Techniques.” Journal of Computer Information Systems.

Adetiba, E., Uzoatuegwu, P.C., Ifijeh, A.H., Abayomi, A., Obiyemi, O. (2024). “NomadicBTS-2: A Network-in-a-Box with Software-Defined Radio and Web Based App for Multiband Cellular Communication.” International Journal of Computing and Digital Systems, 15(1), 1-16.

Aroba, O.J., Abayomi, A. (2023). “An Implementation of SAP Enterprise Resource Planning – A Case Study of the South African Revenue Services and Taxation Sectors.” Cogent Social Sciences.

These publications reflect his diverse research interests and his significant impact on fields ranging from telecommunications to machine learning and health technology.

Conclusion

Dr. Abayomi’s academic and professional journey is a testament to his dedication to advancing knowledge in Information Technology and its application to solving societal challenges. His work has influenced both the academic community and industry practices, particularly in the areas of cognitive radio networks, machine learning, and ICT solutions for societal development. His numerous accolades and impactful publications underscore his standing as a leading researcher in his field, and his continued contributions promise further advancements in the intersection of technology and human development.

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.

Shaojin Ma | Predictive Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shaojin Ma | Predictive Analytics | Best Researcher Award

China Agriculture University | China

Dr. Shaojin Ma is a prominent researcher at China Agricultural University, specializing in food quality, safety, and non-destructive testing technologies. With a focus on innovative techniques like spectroscopy and laser-induced fluorescence, Ma has significantly contributed to the field of agricultural engineering. His work aims to improve food safety, quality monitoring, and processing, with particular attention to non-invasive analysis methods for food products such as grains, legumes, and peppers. He has published extensively in top-tier journals, establishing himself as a key figure in food science and agricultural engineering.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Shaojin Ma completed his higher education at China Agricultural University, where he earned his degrees in agricultural engineering. His academic background laid a solid foundation for his career in food quality control and non-destructive testing. During his studies, he developed a strong interest in the application of optical and imaging technologies for food safety and quality monitoring, which has been the core of his subsequent research and academic contributions.

Experience

Dr. Ma’s professional career includes significant research work in agricultural engineering and food science. He is currently affiliated with China Agricultural University, where he collaborates with various academic and industry experts to advance food safety technologies. Over the years, he has worked on multiple projects focused on food quality, precision agriculture, and the development of portable devices for food testing. His research has led to the development of innovative non-invasive techniques for assessing food quality, particularly in the processing and storage of fruits, vegetables, and grains.

Research Interests

Shaojin Ma’s research interests primarily revolve around the application of advanced optical and imaging technologies in the food industry. He is particularly focused on non-destructive testing methods such as LED and laser-induced fluorescence for quality control in agricultural products. Ma’s work also explores the use of spectroscopy, computer vision, and deep learning to monitor food safety and detect contaminants. His research extends to improving the efficiency and accuracy of food analysis techniques, offering practical solutions for the food processing industry.

Awards

Shaojin Ma has been recognized for his contributions to food science and engineering, receiving several awards for his innovative research. His work in non-destructive testing and food quality monitoring has earned him acclaim in both academic and industrial circles. Although specific awards are not listed, his research excellence and influential publications have positioned him as a leader in his field.

Publications

Shaojin Ma has published a selection of impactful articles in prestigious journals related to food science and agricultural engineering. His notable publications include:

Fusion of visible and fluorescence imaging through deep neural network for color value prediction of pelletized red peppers

    • Authors: Ma, S., Li, Y., Peng, Y., Wang, W., Zhang, Y.
    • Publication Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0

A portable dual-gear device for non-destructive testing on multi-quality of citrus

    • Authors: Li, Y., Wu, J., Wang, W., Ma, S.
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • Citations: 3

Rapid detection of lactic acid bacteria in yogurt based on laser-induced fluorescence

    • Authors: Ma, S., Li, Y., Peng, Y., Wang, Q.
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • Citations: 0

Toward commercial applications of LED and laser-induced fluorescence techniques for food identity, quality, and safety monitoring: A review

    • Authors: Ma, S., Li, Y., Peng, Y., Wang, W.
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • Citations: 8

Spectroscopy and computer vision techniques for noninvasive analysis of legumes: A review

    • Authors: Ma, S., Li, Y., Peng, Y.
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • Citations: 15

Design and Experiment of a Handheld Multi-Channel Discrete Spectrum Detection Device for Potato Processing Quality

    • Authors: Wang, W., Li, Y.-Y., Peng, Y.-K., Yan, S., Ma, S.-J.
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • Citations: 1

Research Progress of Rapid Optical Detection Technology and Equipment for Grain Quality

    • Authors: Nie, S., Ma, S., Peng, Y., Wang, W., Li, Y.
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • Citations: 3

Predicting ASTA color values of peppers via LED-induced fluorescence

    • Authors: Ma, S., Li, Y., Peng, Y., Yan, S., Wang, W.
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • Citations: 8

Detection of nitrofurans residues in honey using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy

    • Authors: Yan, S., Li, Y., Peng, Y., Ma, S., Han, D.
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • Citations: 14

An intelligent and vision-based system for Baijiu brewing-sorghum discrimination

    • Authors: Ma, S., Li, Y., Peng, Y., Yan, S., Zhao, X.
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • Citations: 8

These publications have been cited by numerous articles, reflecting their impact in the scientific community.

Conclusion

Shaojin Ma has established himself as a leading researcher in the field of agricultural engineering and food science. His work on non-destructive testing techniques has enhanced the monitoring and improvement of food quality and safety. Through his publications, he has made significant strides in the application of advanced technologies for food analysis, benefiting both the scientific community and the food industry. With a career focused on innovation and practical solutions, Dr. Ma continues to contribute to the advancement of food safety technologies, setting a high standard for future research in this domain.

Alberto Moccardi | Predictive Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Alberto Moccardi | Predictive Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D at University of Naples Federico II, Italy

Alberto Moccardi is a dedicated data scientist and Ph.D. researcher specializing in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its intersections with the Internet of Things (IoT) and Human-Centered AI (HCAI). With a rich background in both academic and industrial domains, Alberto brings innovative solutions to real-world challenges, focusing on the validation and monitoring of algorithms “in the wild.” He also serves as an assistant professor and corporate lecturer, contributing to the training of future tech leaders.

Profile

Scopus

Education📜

📚 Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Artificial Intelligence
University of Naples Federico II (2023–2026)
Alberto’s doctoral work explores the synergy between AI, IoT, and Augmented Intelligence (AuI), aiming to develop resilient and impactful AI systems.

📜 Master’s in Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence
University of Naples Federico II (2022–2023)
Focused on ethical and societal aspects of AI deployment in modern industries.

📊 Master’s in Data Science
University of Naples Federico II (2021–2023)
Graduated with honors, specializing in Data Mining, Big Data Ethics, and advanced data analysis techniques.

Experience💼

Assistant Professor and Lecturer
University of Naples Federico II (2023–Present)
Supervises and mentors students in courses like “Information Systems and Business Intelligence,” “Hardware and Software for Big Data,” and “Text Mining.”

🎙️ Invited Speaker
Featured in prestigious conferences, including 3PGCIC 2024 and HCAIep 2023, discussing topics like trustworthiness in AI systems and domain-specific chatbots.

🚗 Task Leader for Road Safety Projects
Borgo 4.0 Project (2023–2024)
Led efforts to develop AI-driven road surface monitoring systems for enhanced vehicle safety.

🌐 European Project Leadership

  • CREA2 (2022–2024): Developed equitable algorithms for conflict resolution.
  • CREA3 (2022–2024): Pioneered a conversational agent for guiding European citizens in dispute resolutions.
  • DEUCE (2022–2023): Advanced the digitalization of legal procedures for European enforceable titles.

Research Interests🔍

Alberto’s research focuses on resilient AI applications, emphasizing algorithm validation, ethical AI deployment, and the use of human-centered methodologies for societal impact. He is particularly passionate about integrating AI with IoT and exploring Big Data for urban and infrastructural enhancements.

Publications📚

Detecting Adversarial Attacks in IoT-Enabled Predictive Maintenance with Time-Series Data Augmentation

  • Journal: Information (Switzerland)
  • Year: 2024
  • Volume: 15, Issue: 11, Article: 740

Advancements and Challenges in Generative AI: Architectures, Applications, and Ethical Implications

  • Conference: CEUR Workshop Proceedings
  • Year: 2024
  • Volume: 3762, Pages: 29–34

AI-Driven Potholes Detection for Equitable Repair Prioritization: Human-Centred AI-Driven Methodology as Support of Road Management System

  • Conference: ACM International Conference Proceeding Series
  • Year: 2023
  • Pages: 56

Awards🏆

Grant Recipient for CREA Projects
Secured European Union funding for innovative AI platforms aiding conflict resolution and dispute management.

Leader in Regional Innovation
Acknowledged for leading smart road infrastructure initiatives in the Campania region through the Borgo 4.0 project.

Conclusion🚀

Alberto Moccardi exemplifies the qualities of an innovative and impactful researcher, blending academic rigor with practical applications of AI to solve critical societal problems. His leadership in prestigious projects and consistent publication record underscore his dedication to advancing AI and data science. With further diversification of publications and expanded global outreach, he could further amplify his contributions to the research community.