Rongrong ZHANG | Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rongrong ZHANG | Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rongrong ZHANG | Management and Accounting – Ph.D. Candidate at University of International Business and Economics, China

Dr. Rongrong Zhang is a passionate and forward-thinking doctoral researcher at the Business School of the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE), China. Her scholarly pursuits reflect an interdisciplinary fusion of organizational behavior, psychology, and sustainability. Grounded in a strong academic foundation and practical insights gained through industry and academia, Dr. Zhang has consistently contributed to research that enhances our understanding of workplace dynamics in the age of artificial intelligence and environmental responsibility. With a growing portfolio of impactful publications and international collaborations, she is emerging as a prominent voice among next-generation scholars in the field of behavioral sciences and organizational development.

Academic Profile:

ORCID

Education:

Dr. Zhang is currently completing her Ph.D. in Business Management at UIBE, where she is exploring the nuanced intersection of employee green behavior, emotional regulation, and moral psychology in organizational settings. She earned her Master’s degree in International Business English from Tianjin Foreign Studies University in 2017, which solidified her capabilities in cross-cultural communication and professional business environments. Prior to this, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in English for Business Purposes at North China Institute of Aerospace Engineering. Her academic journey is complemented by national-level research training, foreign language proficiency, and several specialized certifications, including HR and IT qualifications, which together enrich her scholarly output and pedagogical capabilities.

Experience:

Over the years, Dr. Zhang has built a dynamic professional profile, balancing academic inquiry with real-world exposure. She has held various roles, including teaching assistant, data analyst, English lecturer, and human resources assistant, in institutions ranging from the University of Edinburgh to public high schools and training centers across China. Her academic experiences include supervising student research, managing administrative tasks in international programs, and collaborating on interdisciplinary projects with scholars across universities. These engagements have equipped her with a holistic understanding of educational leadership, curriculum delivery, and research coordination—skills that are critical for academic excellence and mentorship.

Research Interest:

Dr. Zhang’s research centers around Organizational Behavior, with a thematic focus on employee green behavior, artificial intelligence applications in workplace settings, moral self-regulation, and emotional labor. She is particularly interested in how emerging technologies impact human behavior and organizational ethics, and how moral identity shapes pro-environmental actions at work. Her studies adopt both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, integrating behavioral analytics and psychological theories to offer robust, evidence-based insights for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. She is actively involved in research projects funded by prestigious institutions, such as the National Social Science Foundation of China and Beijing Educational Science Program.

Awards:

Dr. Zhang has received multiple academic recognitions throughout her research career. She was selected to lead a Graduate Research Innovation Project at UIBE, where her project investigates the moral self-regulation mechanism underlying green workplace behaviors. Additionally, she has received accolades for her participation in competitive conferences like SEEP2021 and was selected for reviewer roles in esteemed journals such as Current Psychology and Journal of Managerial Psychology. Her academic promise and professional discipline have earned her distinction within her doctoral cohort and commendations from faculty mentors and research collaborators.

Publications:

📘 Exploring the Mechanism of How Ethical Leadership Influences Employees’ Green Behavior (2024) – Asia Pacific Journal of Human Resources, cited by 16 articles.
📗 Emotional Labor and Green Behavior: A Moral Self-Regulation Perspective (2023) – Current Psychology, cited by 12 articles.
📙 AI and Organizational Morality: The Role of Self-Identity (2023) – Leadership & Organization Development Journal, cited by 8 articles.
📕 Understanding Moral Disengagement in Green HRM Contexts (2022) – Chinese Management Studies, cited by 9 articles.
📔 The Role of Organizational Culture in Mediating Green Initiatives (2021) – Frontiers in Psychology, cited by 11 articles.
📓 Employee Proactivity in Eco-Friendly Practices: A Behavioral Analytics Approach (2021) – Journal of Cleaner Production, cited by 14 articles.
📒 Emotional Labor Strategies and Environmental Citizenship (2020) – International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, cited by 10 articles.

Conclusion:

Dr. Rongrong Zhang exemplifies the ideals of a modern researcher—curious, collaborative, and committed to societal impact. Her scholarly work intersects pressing global challenges, including sustainability, artificial intelligence, and workplace ethics. With a strong educational foundation, diverse professional experience, and an evolving publication portfolio, she is poised to become a thought leader in organizational behavior and behavioral science. Her passion for research, coupled with a strong track record of academic excellence and innovative thinking, makes her an outstanding candidate for this prestigious award nomination. Her continued contributions are set to influence academic theory and organizational practice on a global scale.

Valentina Diana Rusu | Finance | Best Researcher Award

Dr Valentina Diana Rusu | Finance | Best Researcher Award

Dr Valentina Diana Rusu | Finance – Senior Researcher at Institute of Interdisciplinary Research in Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Romania

Dr. Valentina Diana Rusu is an accomplished Romanian economist and Senior Scientific Researcher (CS I) at the Institute of Interdisciplinary Research, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași. With over 15 years of academic and research experience, she has built a distinguished career that bridges economic theory, public policy, and entrepreneurial finance. Dr. Rusu has played a pivotal role in high-impact research projects, contributed extensively to peer-reviewed journals, and participated in national and international scientific events. Her research is recognized for its relevance to contemporary economic challenges, particularly in post-crisis financial environments and emerging entrepreneurship ecosystems. Her academic excellence is complemented by professional expertise as an educator, evaluator, and project leader across multiple EU and nationally funded initiatives.

Academic Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Rusu earned her PhD in Economics (2008–2011) from Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, focusing on the intricacies of financing decisions during the financial crisis. She further enriched her doctoral training through a mobility program at Universitat de Barcelona in 2011. Her solid academic foundation includes a Master’s degree in Banking and Financial Management (2007–2008) and a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and Banking (2003–2007), both from the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration. She has also completed pedagogical certifications (Level I and II) and participated in professional development programs in project management and data processing through the Romanian Academy.

Experience

Over her career, Dr. Rusu has held progressive research and teaching roles. As a Senior Scientific Researcher (CS I) since 2023, and previously CS II (2019–2023) and CS III (2015–2019), she has consistently delivered impactful interdisciplinary research. She has also contributed to policy implementation as an expert evaluator for the Romanian Ministries of Education and Energy. Her academic involvement began as an Associate Teaching Assistant (2008–2015), delivering seminars on finance-related subjects. She served as Project Manager (2018–2019) for initiatives targeting entrepreneurial competitiveness, and has taken on roles such as beneficiary selection expert and communication specialist for EU-funded research projects. Her international experience includes research visits to the University of Rijeka and the University of Vienna.

Research Interests

Dr. Rusu’s research focuses on economic resilience, financial behavior during crises, entrepreneurship development, and sustainability in public policy. She has made significant contributions to understanding firm-level financing decisions, the socio-economic impact of financial shocks, and the effectiveness of entrepreneurship as a tool for economic revitalization. She is also interested in the interplay between macroeconomic policy and individual financial choices, particularly in transitioning economies. Her interdisciplinary approach has led her to explore the intersection of digital transformation, human capital, and public-sector innovation.

Awards

Dr. Rusu’s academic excellence has been recognized through multiple honors. She has received six research awards from UEFISCDI (Executive Unit for Financing Higher Education, Research, Development and Innovation in Romania) for publishing papers in Q2 Web of Science-indexed journals. Additionally, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University has honored her twice for outstanding research contributions. These accolades underscore her sustained commitment to producing high-quality, internationally relevant research.

Publications 📚🧠

📈 The nexus between entrepreneurship and economic growth: A comparative analysis on groups of countries. O. Stoica, A. Roman, V.D. Rusu
Sustainability, 2020
Cited by: 368
🚀 Entrepreneurial activity in the EU: An empirical evaluation of its determinants. V.D. Rusu, A. Roman
Sustainability, 2017
Cited by: 133
🌍 An empirical analysis of factors affecting competitiveness of CEE countries. V.D. Rusu, A. Roman
Economic Research-Ekonomska Istraživanja, 2018
Cited by: 122
💹 Financial performance – determinants and interdependencies between measurement indicators. M.B. Tudose, V.D. Rusu, S. Avasilcai
Business, Management and Economics Engineering, 2022
Cited by: 83
💻 Digital Technologies and the Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises. A. Roman, V.D. Rusu
Studies in Business and Economics, 2022
Cited by: 44
🧠 Determinants of entrepreneurial intentions of youth: the role of access to finance. V.D. Rusu, A. Roman, M.B. Tudose
Engineering Economics, 2022
Cited by: 41
🇪🇺 The quality of entrepreneurial activity and economic competitiveness in European Union countries: a panel data approach. V.D. Rusu, A. Dornean
Administrative Sciences, 2019
Cited by: 37
📊 Performance management for growth: A framework based on EVA. M.B. Tudose, V.D. Rusu, S. Avasilcai
Journal of Risk and Financial Management, 2021
Cited by: 28
💰 Public debt and economic growth in EU countries. M. Onofrei, I. Bostan, B.N. Firtescu, A. Roman, V.D. Rusu
Economies, 2022
Cited by: 24
🏦 The Access of Small and Medium Size Enterprises to Banking Financing and Current Challenges: The Case of EU Countries. A. Roman, V.D. Rusu
Annales Universitatis Apulensis: Series Oeconomica, 2012
Cited by: 21

Conclusion

Dr. Valentina Diana Rusu exemplifies scholarly dedication, intellectual rigor, and interdisciplinary vision in economics and finance. Her impactful research, extensive publication record, award-winning scholarship, and international collaborations have significantly advanced understanding in financial resilience, entrepreneurship, and public policy. Through her roles as a researcher, educator, evaluator, and project leader, she continues to contribute meaningfully to the academic and policy-making communities in Romania and beyond. Her profile makes her an outstanding nominee for recognition through academic and professional award platforms.

Taicir MEZGHANI | Finance | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Taicir MEZGHANI | Finance | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Taicir MEZGHANI | Finance – Assistant Professor at Faculty of Economic Sciences and Management of Sfax, Tunisia

Taicir Mezghani is a distinguished scholar in the field of Finance, specializing in topics such as portfolio management, financial markets, behavioral finance, sustainable finance, and machine learning applications in finance. With a Ph.D. in Finance obtained from the Faculty of Economics and Management of Sfax in January 2021, Mezghani has made significant contributions to the academic world. He currently holds several teaching positions, including contractual and visiting roles at ISAA and ENTCOM of Sfax. His expertise spans a wide range of subjects, from corporate finance to the role of blockchain in financial markets.

Profile Verified:

Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Education:

Dr. Mezghani’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management from the Lycée Hedi Chaker-Sfax in 2007. He then earned a Master’s in Finance from the Faculty of Economics and Management of Sfax in May 2015, where he explored the intersection of investment and financing decisions through real options theory. His doctoral research, completed in January 2021, focused on the uncertainty and behavioral factors influencing financial markets, specifically examining hedging strategies in the context of oil and the GCC Islamic and conventional financial markets.

Experience:

Dr. Mezghani has developed a well-rounded career as an educator and researcher. From 2019 to 2024, he served as a contracted and visiting lecturer at various institutions in Sfax, contributing to the education of future financial experts. He also has experience in postdoctoral research at the University of Craiova, Romania, where he worked on green financing and technological innovation for sustainable development. His diverse professional experience has equipped him with both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into financial markets and their complexities.

Research Interests:

Dr. Mezghani’s research interests are deeply rooted in the intersection of finance, technology, and sustainability. He is particularly interested in the dynamic connectedness between financial markets, the impact of uncertainty on financial strategies, and the role of behavioral factors in investment decision-making. His research also focuses on the evolving role of green bonds, blockchain technologies, and machine learning in reshaping the future of finance, particularly in the context of the GCC financial markets and the oil sector.

Awards:

Dr. Mezghani has received several prestigious awards recognizing his outstanding research and contributions to finance. Notably, he received the Best Paper Award at the TSFS 2023 conference for his work on cryptocurrency forecasting during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was also honored with the Certificat Meilleur Jury at the Virtual Asia Innovation Show in 2022, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in financial research. These accolades reflect his dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of finance, particularly through the integration of behavioral insights and technological advancements.

Publications:

  1. Mezghani, T., Ben Hamadou, F., & Boujelbène-Abbes, M. (2023). “Network connectedness and portfolio hedging of green bonds, stock markets, and commodities.” International Journal of Emerging Markets. [IF: 2.53, SJR: 0.43, Q2] 📊
  2. Ben Hamadou, F., Mezghani, T., Zouari, R., & Boujelbène-Abbes, M. (2023). “Forecasting Bitcoin returns using machine learning algorithms: Impact of investor sentiment.” EuroMed Journal of Business. [IF: 7.16, SJR: 0.963, Q1] 💻
  3. Mezghani, T., & Boujelbène-Abbes, M. (2023). “Forecasting the impact of financial stress on hedging between the oil market and GCC financial markets.” Managerial Finance. [IF: 1.77, SJR: 0.329, Q3] 💼
  4. Mezghani, T., & Boujelbène-Abbes, M. (2023). “Influence of oil price fluctuations on the network connectedness between oil, GCC Islamic, and conventional financial markets.” International Journal of Islamic and Middle Eastern Finance and Management. [IF: 2.276, SJR: 0.49, Q2] 🛢️
  5. Mezghani, T., & Boujelbène-Abbes, M. (2022). “Forecast the Role of GCC Financial Stress on Oil Market and GCC Financial Markets Using Convolutional Neural Networks.” Asia-Pacific Financial Markets. [IF: 1.30, SJR: 0.23, Q3] 🌍
  6. Mezghani, T., & Boujelbène-Abbes, M. (2021). “Financial stress effects on financial markets: Dynamic connectedness and portfolio hedging.” International Journal of Emerging Markets. [IF: 2.53, SJR: 0.43, Q2] 📉
  7. Mezghani, T., & Boujelbène, M. (2021). “Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on risk transmission between investor sentiment and the Chinese stock and bond markets.” China Finance Review International. [IF: 5.93, SJR: 1.494, Q1] 🌐

Conclusion:

Dr. Taicir Mezghani is a promising researcher and educator whose contributions to finance and economics have made a significant impact. His expertise in behavioral finance, machine learning, and sustainable finance continues to shape the way financial markets are understood and analyzed. With a robust publication record and numerous awards, Dr. Mezghani is poised to continue influencing the academic and professional worlds of finance for years to come. His ongoing research, including the development of green bonds and technological innovations in finance, promises to offer valuable insights into the future of sustainable financial practices.

Pousbila DIANDA | Electronic Money | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Pousbila DIANDA | Electronic Money | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Pousbila DIANDA | Electronic Money – Pan-African Institute for Development in West Africa-Sahel, IPD-AOS, Burkina Faso

Dr. Pousbila Dianda is a distinguished economist and researcher specializing in applied economics, with a particular focus on financial inclusion, economic growth, and digital finance in the African context. His work explores the intersection of economic policies, technology, and development, contributing significantly to the academic and policy discourse in West Africa. As an academic, he has played a pivotal role in advancing research on financial accessibility and economic transformation, making substantial contributions to scholarly literature and practical policy applications.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Dianda holds a PhD in Applied Economics from Thomas Sankara University, where his research centered on financial inclusion and its impact on economic development in WAEMU countries. His academic journey also includes a Diploma of Advanced Studies (D.E.A) in Applied Economics, a Master’s degree in Macroeconomics and Development Management, and a Bachelor’s degree in the same field. His rigorous training has provided him with a strong foundation in economic modeling, data analysis, and policy evaluation, equipping him with the necessary expertise to contribute effectively to economic research and decision-making.

Experience

Dr. Dianda has accumulated extensive experience in academia, research, and professional training. He currently serves as the Director of Continuing Education and External Relations at the Pan-African Institute for Development in West Africa and the Sahel (IPD-AOS). In this role, he oversees training programs, fosters institutional partnerships, and supports the professional development of students and researchers. He is also a lecturer at Thomas Sankara University, where he teaches courses in macroeconomics, descriptive statistics, and probability. Beyond academia, he has actively contributed to development projects, economic consultations, and capacity-building initiatives across Africa, further solidifying his expertise in policy research and implementation.

Research Interest

Dr. Dianda’s research focuses on financial inclusion, digital financial services, economic growth, renewable energy, and the role of information and communication technologies (ICT) in economic development. His studies seek to understand how financial accessibility and technological advancements drive economic progress, particularly in developing economies. Through his work, he aims to bridge the gap between economic theory and practical applications, providing data-driven insights that inform policy formulation and economic strategies at national and regional levels.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Dianda has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to economic research and policy analysis. He received a Certificate of Merit in Chinese Language and Culture from the Chinese Embassy in Burkina Faso, reflecting his commitment to cross-cultural academic engagement. His extensive research output and active participation in scientific discussions have earned him a strong reputation in the field of applied economics, positioning him as a leading scholar in economic development research.

Selected Publications

  1. 📖 Electronic Money Accessibility and Financial Inclusion in WAEMU Countries: Does Increased Access to Electronic Money Lead to Greater Financial Inclusion? (2025) – Cogent Economics & Finance (Cited by 15 articles)
  2. 🔍 Renewable Energies in WAEMU Countries: The Role of Financial Inclusion (2025) – International Journal of Energy Sector Management (Cited by 10 articles)
  3. 📊 Information and Communication Technologies and Economic Growth in WAEMU Countries: The Role of Financial Inclusion (Under Revision) – International Journal of Social Economics
  4. 🌍 ICT and Education in WAEMU Countries: A Comparative Gender Analysis of Higher Education (Under Revision) – Cogent Education
  5. 💰 Barriers to Financial Inclusion and Socioeconomic Determinants in WAEMU Countries: A Multivariate Analysis (Under Revision) – Journal of Global Information Technology Management
  6. 🏛️ Escaping the Resource Curse in Sub-Saharan Africa: Is the Quality of Institutions the Missing Link? (Under Revision) – Bulletin of Economic Research
  7. 💳 Electronic Currency and Financial Inclusion in WAEMU Countries: A Quantile Regression Analysis (2022) – Thomas Sankara University Conference Proceedings (Cited by 8 articles)

Conclusion

Dr. Pousbila Dianda has made significant strides in the field of applied economics, particularly in financial inclusion, economic development, and digital finance. His academic contributions, extensive publication record, and leadership in research institutions underscore his role as a key figure in economic policy research. Through his work, he continues to impact both academia and economic policy formulation, making him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to advancing economic knowledge, combined with his commitment to practical policy solutions, demonstrates his profound influence on the field and his potential for future contributions to economic development research.