Thokozile Mazibuko | Electrical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Ms . Thokozile Mazibuko | Electrical Engineering | Best Researcher Award 

Lecturer , durban university of technology , South Africa

Thokozile Fortunate Mazibuko is a dedicated electrical engineer with a concentration in Power and Renewable Energy Systems. She is passionate about innovation and creativity, consistently aiming to contribute to the field through research and teaching. With a strong technical aptitude and experience in both academia and industry, Thokozile is currently a lecturer at Durban University of Technology, where she focuses on developing new teaching methodologies and supervising research projects.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Academic Background: Thokozile has a strong academic foundation, holding a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering with Cum Laude from Tshwane University of Technology and another Master’s from RWTH Aachen University. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering at the Durban University of Technology, focusing on renewable energy and power systems, which highlights her dedication to advancing her knowledge and expertise in this field.
  2. Research Expertise: Thokozile has contributed to several high-impact publications in the areas of power systems, renewable energy, and energy systems optimization. Her work on the application of synchrophasors for transient stability analysis and her involvement in the techno-economic design and optimization of hybrid energy systems demonstrate her capability to handle complex and critical issues in the energy sector.
  3. Teaching and Mentorship: Her experience as a lecturer at the Durban University of Technology and the University of Johannesburg reflects her commitment to academia. Thokozile has developed and implemented innovative teaching approaches, supervised research activities, and contributed to the academic development of her students, enhancing her institution’s research profile.
  4. Professional Experience: Thokozile has a robust professional background, with experience in both academia and industry. Her roles at Rand Water, Anglo American, and Anglo Platinum, where she handled responsibilities ranging from quality control to project management, provide her with a well-rounded understanding of the practical applications of her research.
  5. Technical Skills: Thokozile possesses a wide range of technical skills, including complex problem-solving, systems analysis, and technology design. These skills, combined with her research and teaching experience, make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Areas of Improvement 

  • Expanded Research Impact: While Thokozile has a solid publication record, expanding her research impact through collaborations, securing grants, and leading high-profile projects could further enhance her profile. Engaging in more interdisciplinary research could also broaden her influence in related fields.
  • Industry-Academia Collaboration: Increasing collaboration with industry partners could enhance the practical relevance of her research and lead to innovations that directly impact the energy sector. This could also provide more opportunities for funded research projects and applications.

Visibility in International Conferences: While Thokozile has presented at various conferences, increasing her presence at international conferences and workshops, especially in leadership or keynote roles, would raise her profile in the global research community.

Education 

Thokozile is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering at Durban University of Technology. She holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Tshwane University of Technology (Cum Laude) and another Master’s degree from RWTH Aachen University in Germany. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Technology in Electrical Engineering (Power) from Tshwane University of Technology and a Diploma in Electrical Engineering from Durban University of Technology.

Experience 

Thokozile has extensive experience in both academic and industrial settings. Since 2020, she has been a lecturer at Durban University of Technology, where she develops innovative teaching approaches and supervises research projects. Before that, she lectured at the University of Johannesburg, focusing on Power Electronics, Protection Technology, and Control Systems. Thokozile has also worked as a Graduate Intern at Rand Water and held various roles at Anglo American, including Quality Control Coordinator and Engineering Trainee.

Research Interests 

Thokozile’s research interests lie in Power and Energy Systems, particularly in renewable energy sources. Her work focuses on the application of synchrophasors in multi-machine power systems for transient stability analysis and the optimization of hybrid energy systems. She is dedicated to advancing the field through her research, which combines technical expertise with practical applications.

Awards 

Thokozile has earned recognition for her academic achievements, including her Cum Laude distinction for her Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering. Her work has been consistently recognized for its impact on the field, contributing to the development of innovative solutions in power and energy systems.

Publications 

Thokozile has authored several research papers in esteemed journals and conference proceedings, showcasing her contributions to the field of electrical engineering:

Conclusion

Thokozile Fortunate Mazibuko is a highly qualified and experienced researcher with a strong academic and professional background in electrical engineering, particularly in power systems and renewable energy. Her dedication to research, teaching, and technical expertise make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With further emphasis on expanding her research impact, industry collaboration, and international visibility, she has the potential to achieve even greater recognition in her field.

kang yen | Electrical Engineering | Best Faculty Award

Prof Dr . kang yen | Electrical Engineering | Best Faculty Award 

Professor & Director , FIU , United States

Dr. Kang Kenneth Yen is a distinguished Professor and Director of the External Program at the College of Engineering and Computing, Florida International University (FIU). With a prolific career spanning several decades, Dr. Yen’s expertise lies in Electrical Engineering, particularly in cybersecurity, digital signal processing, and advanced control systems. His contributions extend to significant roles such as Assistant Provost for the China Program, Graduate Program Director, and Chairperson of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at FIU

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Academic and Professional Experience: Dr. Kang Kenneth Yen has a rich academic background with a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Vanderbilt University and a notable career spanning multiple prestigious positions, including Chairperson of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at FIU and Director of International Program Development. His extensive experience in academia demonstrates a long-standing commitment to both research and education.
  2. Leadership and Administrative Roles: Dr. Yen’s roles as Assistant Provost (China Program) and Director of External Programs highlight his leadership capabilities and ability to manage complex programs. His leadership in developing international programs and directing graduate studies underscores his contributions to expanding educational and research opportunities.
  3. Funded Research and Projects: Dr. Yen has successfully secured funding for a diverse array of projects, including work with NASA, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Florida Center for Cybersecurity. This indicates a strong ability to attract and manage substantial research grants, reflecting his research’s relevance and impact.
  4. Published Research: Dr. Yen has published numerous articles in high-impact journals and conferences, with a focus on machine learning, control systems, and sensor networks. His publications on topics such as false data injection attacks and machine learning applications in industrial systems demonstrate significant contributions to his field.
  5. International Recognition: His invited talks at various international institutions and collaborations with researchers from different countries enhance his global presence and demonstrate his influence in the field of electrical and computer engineering.

Areas for Improvement  

  1. Broader Impact and Interdisciplinary Work: While Dr. Yen’s research is highly specialized, there may be opportunities to broaden his impact by engaging in more interdisciplinary projects. Exploring collaborations with other departments or fields could enhance the applicability and reach of his research.
  2. Recent Innovations and Emerging Trends: While Dr. Yen’s work is substantial, focusing more on emerging trends and innovations in electrical engineering and related fields could further strengthen his research portfolio. Staying abreast of the latest technological advancements and integrating them into his research could offer new avenues for exploration.
  3. Student and Community Engagement: Expanding efforts to involve students in research projects and community outreach programs could enhance the educational experience and contribute to the broader impact of his work. Initiatives aimed at increasing student participation in research and fostering industry partnerships might also be beneficial.

    Education

    Dr. Yen holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Vanderbilt University (August 1985), an M.E.E in Electrical Engineering from the University of Virginia (December 1979), and a B.S. in Geophysics from National Central University, Taiwan (July 1974). His educational background reflects a robust foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of Electrical Engineering.

    Experience

    Dr. Yen’s extensive experience includes roles as the Director of International Program Development, Chairperson of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Visiting Professor at Universite de Nancy I, France. He has also served as a Mechanical Engineer and Instructor in Taiwan. His leadership in various academic and administrative positions has significantly advanced the engineering programs at FIU.

    Research Interests

    Dr. Yen’s research interests encompass cybersecurity for safety-critical cyber-physical systems, advanced signal processing, and machine learning applications in control systems. His work focuses on developing innovative solutions for enhancing system security, optimizing sensor technology, and improving control systems’ performance.

    Awards

    Dr. Yen has been recognized for his contributions to engineering and education, including various funded projects and grants for research in cybersecurity, sensor optimization, and control systems. His achievements include significant projects funded by NASA, DHS, and the US DOT, showcasing his impact on both academia and industry.

    Publications

    Dr. Yen has authored numerous influential papers in top-tier journals. Some of his notable publications include:

Aziz Shekh-Abed | Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Aziz Shekh-Abed | Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer Ruppin Academic Center Israel

Dr. Aziz Shekh-Abed is a distinguished lecturer in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Ruppin Academic Center. With a profound dedication to enhancing engineering education, his expertise lies in systems thinking, abstract thinking, and project-based learning methodologies.

profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

  • BScTE. in Technology Education from Tel Aviv University, Israel (2001)
  • MA in Education from Tel Aviv University, Israel (2006)
  • Ph.D. in Education in Science and Technology from Technion – Israel Institute of Technology (2020)

Experience 🧑‍🏫

  • Lecturer (Tenure Position) at Ruppin Academic Center, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (Oct 2021-Present)
  • Adjunct Lecturer at Holon Institute of Technology, Instructional Technology Faculty (Feb 2020-June 2021)

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Shekh-Abed’s research interests encompass systems thinking, abstract thinking, and the application of project-based learning in engineering education. He is particularly focused on the educational challenges and opportunities presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Awards 🏆

  • PhD Scholarship (2016–2020)
  • Letters of appreciation from school principals for mentoring prize-winning 12th graders in project competitions.

Publications 📚

  • Gero, A., Shekh-Abed, A., and Hazzan, O. (2021). Interrelations between systems thinking and abstract thinking: the case of high-school electronics students. European Journal of Engineering Education, 46(5), 735-749. Link
  • Shekh-Abed, A., Hazzan, O., & Gero, A. (2021). Promoting systems thinking and abstract thinking in high-school electronics students: Integration of Dedicated Tasks into Project-Based Learning. International Journal of Engineering Education, 37(4), 1080-1089. Link
  • Shekh-Abed, A., Barakat, N. (2022). Challenges and opportunities for higher engineering education during the COVID-19 Pandemic. International Journal of Engineering Education, 38(2), 393-407. Link
  • Shekh-Abed, A., Barakat, N. (2023). Challenges to Systems Thinking and Abstract Thinking Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic. International Journal of Engineering Education, 39(1), 48-54. Link
  • Shekh-Abed, A., Stav-Satuby, Y. (2023). Relationships between Reflection Ability and Learning Performance of junior electronics engineering students. International Journal of Engineering Education, 39(3), 604-611. Link
  • Shekh-Abed, (2024). Metacognitive self-knowledge and cognitive skills in project-based learning of high school electronics students. European Journal of Engineering Education. Link