Amena Darwish | Machine learning | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Amena Darwish | Machine learning | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Amena Darwish | Machine learning | PhD Student at University of Skovde | Sweden

Ms. Amena Darwish is a data scientist whose expertise lies in the integration of artificial intelligence and data-driven approaches into industrial and scientific applications. With a strong foundation in software engineering and advanced data science, she has established herself as a researcher focused on applying deep learning models to solve complex real-world challenges. Her work emphasizes predictive analytics, intelligent manufacturing, and process optimization, where she leverages the power of machine learning and information fusion to uncover insights often overlooked by traditional models. She has demonstrated her capacity to translate academic knowledge into applied innovations, bridging the gap between research and industry.

Academic Profile

ScopusORCID

Education

Ms. Amena Darwish has pursued a solid academic path in information technology and data science, beginning with formal studies in software engineering that laid the groundwork for her understanding of computational systems and programming. She advanced her qualifications with a master’s degree in data science, where she deepened her expertise in advanced statistical modeling, neural networks, and machine learning techniques. Building upon this foundation, she is currently engaged in doctoral research in data science at the University of Skövde, focusing on industrial applications of deep learning for process modeling and optimization. Her educational journey reflects a consistent commitment to advancing her knowledge and contributing to the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.

Experience

Ms. Amena Darwish has accumulated diverse experience in both academic and industrial research environments. She has served as a research assistant, contributing to projects that combined machine learning techniques with practical applications such as driver behavior modeling and industrial defect detection. Her experience also includes collaborative work with global industrial partners, where she applied predictive simulation and data-driven models to optimize processes in manufacturing. Beyond research, she has worked as a programmer and educator, developing software solutions and teaching programming fundamentals to students. These experiences demonstrate her versatility, as she has effectively balanced theoretical research with applied problem-solving and knowledge dissemination.

Research Interest

Ms. Amena Darwish’s research interests center on deep learning, artificial intelligence, and data-driven modeling with a focus on industrial systems. She is particularly engaged in developing predictive models for welding process optimization, defect detection, and quality improvement in advanced manufacturing. Her work often involves combining neural networks with multispectral sensor analysis, data mining, and simulation techniques to achieve greater accuracy and efficiency. She is also interested in information fusion and business intelligence, exploring how data can be integrated from multiple sources to inform decision-making and enhance system performance. Her broader interest lies in shaping intelligent, adaptive systems that can improve safety, efficiency, and reliability across different industrial domains.

Award

Ms. Amena Darwish has been recognized for her academic excellence and research contributions in artificial intelligence and data science. Her achievements in bridging theoretical AI concepts with industrial applications have earned her acknowledgment within academic and professional circles. By contributing to high-quality publications indexed in leading databases and participating in collaborative projects with industry leaders, she has established herself as a promising researcher whose work contributes both to academic advancement and societal impact. Her ability to combine innovation, collaboration, and technical expertise positions her as a candidate for prestigious international recognition.

Selected Publication

  • Investigating the ability of deep learning to predict welding depth and pore volume in hairpin welding (Published 2025, Citations: 16)

  • Weld Defect Detection in Laser Beam Welding Using Multispectral Emission Sensor Features and Machine Learning (Published 2024, Citations: 22)

  • Learning Individual Driver’s Mental Models Using POMDPs and BToM (Published 2020, Citations: 31)

Conclusion

Ms. Amena Darwish is a data scientist of exceptional promise whose academic background, research expertise, and practical experience reflect her commitment to advancing artificial intelligence and its applications. Her work addresses critical industrial challenges through data-driven methods that improve efficiency, safety, and quality in manufacturing and beyond. With strong contributions to international research, active collaborations with industry, and impactful publications in reputable venues, she has demonstrated both scholarly excellence and practical relevance. Ms. Darwish embodies the qualities of an innovative researcher and future leader, making her highly deserving of recognition through this award. Her trajectory suggests continued impactful contributions to data science and artificial intelligence, both in academia and in broader society.

AHMADOU MUSTAPHA FONTON MOFFO | Machine Learning | Best Researcher Award

Dr. AHMADOU MUSTAPHA FONTON MOFFO | Machines Learning | Best Researcher Award 

Economist | UNESCO | Canada

Short Bio 🌟

Ahmadou Mustapha FONTON is a distinguished economist based in Montréal, Canada, with a Ph.D. in Economics from the Université du Québec à Montréal. Specializing in macroeconomics, financial economics, and applied econometrics, FONTON excels in leveraging machine learning and big data to inform policy decisions and develop robust risk models. His extensive professional experience includes roles at UNESCO and the Ministry of Scientific Research in Cameroon, reflecting his dedication to advancing economic research and policy.

Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Expertise and Experience: Dr. Fonton brings a wealth of experience in both academic and non-academic settings. His role as an economist at UNESCO and previous positions demonstrate a solid track record in applied econometrics, macroeconomics, and financial economics. His contributions to data collection, statistical analysis, and policy evaluation underscore his broad expertise.
  2. Advanced Technical Skills: His proficiency with a diverse set of software tools (PYTHON, R, MATLAB, STATA, SPSS, etc.) and techniques, including machine learning and big data analysis, highlights his technical acumen. This expertise is critical for modern economic research, especially in forecasting and analyzing complex economic phenomena.
  3. Strong Research Output: Dr. Fonton’s publication record, including his recent work on machine learning in stress testing US banks, demonstrates his ability to contribute valuable insights to the field of economics. His working papers and conference presentations further reflect his active engagement in cutting-edge research.
  4. Academic and Teaching Experience: His roles as a research assistant and instructor at Université du Québec à Montréal and Institut Siantou Superieur show a strong background in teaching and mentoring. This experience is important for fostering new talent and advancing the field through education.
  5. International Perspective and Multilingual Skills: Dr. Fonton’s international experience, combined with his multilingual abilities (English, French, and Bamoun), provides him with a unique perspective on global economic issues. This is especially relevant in the context of UNESCO’s work and cross-border research collaborations.
  6. Policy Impact: His involvement in projects that influence policy, such as his work on forecasting time series for UNESCO and his previous consulting roles, indicates a strong capacity for translating research into practical recommendations. This aligns well with the goals of the Research for Best Researcher Award, which often emphasizes practical impacts of research.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Publication Record: While Dr. Fonton has a notable publication in the International Review of Financial Analysis and several working papers, increasing his publication count in high-impact journals could strengthen his profile further. Broadening his research topics or collaborating on interdisciplinary studies might also enhance his visibility in different research circles.
  2. Increased Collaboration and Networking: Engaging in more collaborative research projects and expanding his network within the global research community could open up additional opportunities for impactful research and visibility. This could involve co-authoring papers with researchers from diverse backgrounds or participating in more international conferences.
  3. Focus on Long-term Projects: While Dr. Fonton’s work on various projects is commendable, focusing on longer-term research initiatives might yield more significant and sustained contributions to the field. Developing comprehensive research programs or longitudinal studies could be beneficial.
  4. Enhanced Public Engagement: Increasing efforts to communicate his research findings to the public and policymakers could amplify the impact of his work. This might include writing policy briefs, engaging in media outreach, or participating in public lectures and forums.

Education 🎓

  • 2023: Ph.D. in Economics, Université du Québec à Montréal, Canada
  • 2010: M.Sc. in Economics, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium
  • 2005: B.Sc. in Statistics, ISSEA Yaoundé, Cameroon
  • 2000: Certificate in Mathematics, Cameroon

Experience 💼

2023–Present: Economist-Statistician, UNESCO Institute of Statistics, Canada
Leading data collection and processing for Science and Culture Annual Surveys, developing new survey instruments, and producing statistical reports.

2012–2017: Coordinator of Statistical Projects, Ministry of Scientific Research, Cameroon
Directed national statistical surveys, analyzed data on Research and Development, and assisted in organizing expert meetings and seminars.

2009–2012: Economist, Ministry of Economy and Planning, Cameroon
Monitored macroeconomic indicators and developed socio-economic analyses to guide policy decisions.

2008: Credit Analyst, Afriland First Bank, Cameroon
Analyzed credit portfolios and managed risk assessments to support the bank’s credit-granting process.

Research Interests 🔍

Main Interests:

  • Econometrics (Forecasting, Machine Learning, Big Data Analysis)

Secondary Interests:

  • Macroeconomics
  • Microeconometrics
  • Finance

FONTON’s research integrates advanced econometric models with machine learning techniques to explore macro-financial linkages and evaluate economic policies.

Award 🏅

Ahmadou Mustapha FONTON has been recognized for his contributions to economic research and policy development through various grants and academic accolades. His innovative work in econometrics and machine learning positions him as a leading candidate for prestigious research awards.

Publications 📚

  1. “A machine learning approach in stress testing US bank holding companies” – Accepted for publication in International Review of Financial Analysis (2024). Read Here

Conclusion

Dr. Ahmadou Mustapha FONTON is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His extensive experience in econometrics, macroeconomics, and financial economics, coupled with his technical skills and policy impact, positions him as a strong contender. His research contributions, combined with his international perspective and teaching experience, align well with the objectives of the award. Addressing the areas for improvement, such as increasing his publication record and expanding his collaborative efforts, could further enhance his candidacy. Overall, Dr. Fonton’s profile reflects a distinguished researcher with a promising trajectory in the field of economics.