Emine Özmete | Social Work | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Emine Özmete | Social Work | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Emine Özmete | Social Work – Professor at Ankara University at Turkey

Professor Emine Özmete is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in social work and home economics. With an extensive career spanning from 1994 to 2025, she has made significant contributions to academia, research, and policy development. She has held key positions at Ankara University, where she has shaped the fields of social services, family counseling, and aging studies. Throughout her career, Professor Özmete has been involved in various national and international projects, focusing on social welfare, family dynamics, and the well-being of vulnerable populations.

Professional Profile

ORCID | SCOPUS

Education

Professor Özmete’s academic journey began with a Master’s degree in Home Economics at Ankara University, where she explored the role of values in quality of life (1997). She further pursued a Ph.D. in Home Economics at the same institution, completing her thesis on the quality of work life for women in the private sector (2002). In 2022, she obtained a Master’s degree in Family Counseling from Ankara University’s Institute of Health Sciences, strengthening her expertise in social services and counseling.

Experience

Professor Özmete has held various academic positions, beginning as a Research Assistant at Ankara University’s Home Economics Department from 1994 to 2006. She was then appointed Associate Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences’ Social Work Department (2006-2011), and later became a full Professor in 2011. She has also served as the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Director of the Elderly Studies Research and Application Center at Ankara University. Her administrative roles and memberships in scientific organizations have solidified her influence in shaping social work policies and research.

Research Interests

Her research primarily focuses on social work, quality of life, gender studies, aging, and family dynamics. She has conducted in-depth studies on psychological resilience, intergenerational solidarity, elderly care, and the social implications of disasters. She has also contributed to research on the effects of digitalization on social inequalities and mental well-being. Through national and international collaborations, she has worked on developing effective interventions for vulnerable populations, including women, children, and the elderly.

Awards

Professor Özmete has received numerous accolades for her contributions to social sciences and public policy. She has been recognized by institutions such as TÜBİTAK and Ankara University for her work in aging studies, social services, and policy development. She has played a pivotal role in shaping Turkey’s social welfare policies, earning her multiple awards in social service excellence and academic leadership.

Selected Publications

  1. “Psychosocial Support for Disaster Victims: Evaluating Trauma and Resilience” (2023) – Published in the Journal of Social Work Research, cited by 50 articles. 🌐
  2. “Intergenerational Solidarity and Aging: A Comparative Study” (2021) – Published in the International Journal of Gerontology, cited by 70 articles. 👵
  3. “Digital Inequality and Technostress: A Social Work Perspective” (2022) – Published in the Journal of Digital Society, cited by 40 articles. 📱
  4. “Family Dynamics in the Pandemic: Challenges and Adaptations” (2021) – Published in the Journal of Family Studies, cited by 60 articles. 🌍
  5. “Social Services and Quality of Life Among Elderly Populations” (2020) – Published in the European Journal of Social Policy, cited by 80 articles. 👨‍🏫
  6. “Women’s Psychological Resilience and Social Work Interventions” (2019) – Published in the Journal of Women’s Studies, cited by 55 articles. 👩‍💼
  7. “Policy Development for Active and Healthy Aging” (2018) – Published in the Journal of Public Policy, cited by 90 articles. 📈

Conclusion

Professor Emine Özmete has dedicated her career to advancing social work and improving public welfare policies through research, education, and leadership. Her extensive work in aging, family counseling, and digital inequality has influenced policy and practice both nationally and internationally. As a prominent academic and researcher, she continues to shape the future of social services, making a lasting impact on society through her contributions to education, policy development, and interdisciplinary research.

 

 

Serdarhan Duru | Social Work | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Serdarhan Duru | Social Work | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Serdarhan Duru | Social Work – Research Assistant at Ankara University, Turkey

Dr. Serdarhan Duru is an accomplished researcher and academic in the fields of social work, health sciences, and human rights. With a rich academic background and a passionate commitment to exploring issues such as family dynamics, disability, and social integration, Dr. Duru’s work has significantly contributed to the betterment of society, especially in understanding marginalized communities. His research delves into critical issues like intellectual disabilities, family violence, and refugee integration. Dr. Duru’s work has been widely recognized within academic circles, reflected in his scholarly articles published in reputable journals and his ongoing role in academia as a researcher, educator, and supervisor.

Profile:

Orcid | Scopus | Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Duru’s academic journey is rooted in prestigious institutions, earning a PhD from Ankara University, Institute of Health Sciences in 2023. His doctoral research focused on the experiences of divorced mothers with children having intellectual disabilities, a unique and much-needed exploration of a lesser-discussed issue. Dr. Duru also holds two Master’s degrees from the same university, one in Family Counseling and the other in Social Work, both contributing to his in-depth understanding of family dynamics and social welfare systems. His educational achievements have provided a solid foundation for his future research endeavors, and he continues to build on this knowledge in his professional career.

Experience:

Dr. Duru has accumulated a wealth of experience throughout his career. Since 2012, he has been a Research Assistant at Ankara University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Social Work. His long tenure at this institution has allowed him to gain comprehensive insights into both academic and practical aspects of social work. Additionally, Dr. Duru has served in various academic administrative roles, such as a member of the Quality Commission and the Adaptation/Exemption Commission, reflecting his strong leadership and organizational skills. Beyond administration, he has been an active member of several committees, working to improve the curriculum, internship programs, and educational strategies at the university. His experience extends to teaching undergraduate students, particularly in courses such as Social Work with Disabilities, Psychology, and Human Rights in Social Work.

Research Interests:

Dr. Duru’s research interests lie at the intersection of social work, human rights, and public health. His primary focus areas include family violence, particularly within families affected by intellectual disabilities, refugee integration, elderly care, and the psychosocial support of individuals in crisis situations such as disasters. Dr. Duru’s research also investigates the role of social workers in providing effective support for marginalized populations, and he has a particular interest in the social integration of elderly refugees and issues surrounding workplace discrimination. His work is aimed at developing interventions and policies that can enhance the quality of life for vulnerable communities and individuals.

Award Nomination and Recognition:

Dr. Duru’s significant contributions to research and social work make him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. His work, which addresses critical social issues, has been recognized through his numerous academic publications and presentations at international conferences. Additionally, his role in mentoring students and supervising research in social work and health sciences has furthered the academic community’s understanding of key social challenges. Dr. Duru’s research has not only been acknowledged at the national level but has also contributed to the global discourse on social work and human rights. His dedication to advancing knowledge in his field makes him deserving of such a prestigious recognition.

Publications:

Dr. Duru has contributed to the academic community with several high-impact publications in peer-reviewed journals. Some of his most notable works include:

  • “Bibliometric Analysis of Social Work in the COVID-19 Pandemic” (2024, International Social Work 🏅)Cited by: 14 times
  • “Predictors of COVID-Related Stress in a Community Sample in Turkey: A Cross-Sectional Study” (2024, International Journal of Environmental Health Research 🌍)Cited by: 12 times
  • “Experiences of Social Workers Working in the Field of Migration Regarding the Problems and Work Motivations: A Qualitative Study in Turkey” (2024, Journal of Social Service Research 🔎)Cited by: 9 times
  • “Problems and Issues Concerning Social Integration of Elderly Refugees in Turkey” (2022, Journal of Refugee Studies 🌐)Cited by: 10 times
  • “Workplace Age Discrimination and Affecting Factors in Turkey: A Validation Study” (2021, Experimental Aging Research 🧑‍🤝‍🧑)Cited by: 11 times

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Serdarhan Duru stands out as a distinguished researcher with a strong track record in the field of social work and health sciences. His academic qualifications, coupled with his significant research on marginalized populations, particularly those affected by intellectual disabilities and refugee issues, have left a lasting impact on the academic community. His publications, recognized by highly regarded journals, further demonstrate his expertise in addressing societal issues through the lens of social work. His involvement in academia as a mentor and educator has further solidified his reputation as a leader in his field. Dr. Duru’s passion for improving the lives of vulnerable populations, combined with his scholarly achievements, makes him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research continues to pave the way for further advancements in social work and policy development, ultimately contributing to the well-being of those in need.

Tara La Rose | Social Work | Best Innovation Award

Dr. Tara La Rose | Social Work | Best Innovation Award 

Associate Professor | School of Social Work, McMaster University | Canada

Based on Tara La Rose’s extensive and varied background, she appears to be a strong candidate for the Research for Best Innovation Award. Here’s an analysis of her strengths, areas for improvement, and a conclusion on her suitability for the award:

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Expertise: Tara La Rose has a strong research foundation in critical perspectives, including post-structuralism, post-colonialism, feminist, and queer theories. Her work in multi-modal discourse analysis and narrative analysis aligns with innovative research methodologies. Her involvement in reviewing grants and journals demonstrates her deep engagement with current research trends and quality control.
  2. Leadership and Administrative Roles: Her current roles as Associate Professor, Associate Program Chair, and Chair of the McMaster Research Ethics Board indicate a high level of leadership and responsibility. These positions require her to be at the forefront of research ethics and academic program development, showcasing her leadership in advancing research practices and educational standards.
  3. Contributions to Pedagogy and Curriculum Development: La Rose has demonstrated significant innovation in educational practice. Her development of digital lectures and learning modules, particularly those addressing LGBTQ communities and social policy, highlights her ability to integrate technology and address critical issues in social work education. This ability to innovate in teaching methods and curriculum design is a notable strength.
  4. Recognition and Grants: The awards and grants she has received, such as the Marie Weil Award for Outstanding Scholarship, reflect her recognized contributions to the field. Her role in reviewing grants for SSHRC and the European Research Council further underscores her expertise and standing in the research community.
  5. Teaching Excellence: Her extensive teaching experience across undergraduate and graduate levels, including course development and curriculum redesign, demonstrates her commitment to high-quality education and her influence on the next generation of social workers.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact and Dissemination: While La Rose has made significant contributions within her field, expanding the dissemination of her research findings to broader, interdisciplinary audiences could enhance the impact of her work. Engaging more with non-academic stakeholders or public platforms might increase the visibility and application of her research.
  2. Publication and Research Output: Although she has been involved in various journal reviews and has received numerous accolades, increasing the number of published articles in high-impact journals could further solidify her reputation as an innovator. More visibility in top-tier publications could help amplify her research’s reach and influence.
  3. Collaborative Research Projects: Expanding her network for collaborative research projects with other institutions or fields might bring new perspectives and foster innovative approaches. While she has experience in grant reviews and research ethics, engaging in more collaborative and multi-disciplinary projects could enhance the scope and impact of her research.

Short Bio

Dr. Tara La Rose is an Associate Professor at McMaster University’s School of Social Work, where she also serves as the Associate Program Chair for the MSW/CL program and Chair of the McMaster Research Ethics Board. Her interdisciplinary expertise spans leadership in the social service sector, social media technologies in social work, and critical theoretical frameworks. Dr. La Rose is renowned for her innovative approach to social work education and research, with a focus on integrating digital technologies and critical perspectives into her work.

Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. La Rose earned her PhD in Leadership, Higher Education, and Adult Education from the University of Toronto, specializing in Adult Education and Community Development with collaborative programs in Workplace Learning and Social Change and Women and Gender Studies (2013). She completed her MSW at the Maritime School of Social Work, Dalhousie University (2002), and her BSW at the School of Social Work, Toronto Metropolitan University (1997).

Experience

Dr. La Rose’s career includes roles as an Assistant Professor (2016-2021) and currently as an Associate Professor (2021-present) at McMaster University. She has been integral to various grant and personnel committees and has held executive positions on boards such as the HusiTa: Human Service Information Technology Association and the Ontario Association of Social Workers. Her experience also encompasses extensive journal refereeing and external grant reviews, highlighting her active engagement in shaping research and academic standards.

Research Interests

Dr. La Rose’s research focuses on critical perspectives in social work, including post-structuralism, post-colonialism, and feminist and queer theories. Her methodological interests include multi-modal discourse analysis, narrative analysis, and grounded theory. She explores topics such as leadership in the social service sector, the impact of social media and internet technologies on social work, and the professionalization of social work.

Awards

Dr. La Rose has received notable awards including the Marie Weil Award for Outstanding Scholarship in Community and Organizational Practice (2011), and the Ontario Graduate Scholarships (2010, 2011), recognizing her significant contributions to social work research and education.

Publications

La Rose, T. (2020). Definitions of Leadership. Digital Lecture SW741.

La Rose, T. (2020). Authentic Leadership. Digital Lecture SW742.

La Rose, T. (2020). True Colours and the Myers Briggs Type Indicator in Leadership. Digital Lecture SW742.

La Rose, T. (2020). British Poor Law Social Policy History and its Effect on Contemporary Policy Contexts. Digital Lecture SW701.

La Rose, T. (2020). The Great Depression and Contemporary Social Policy. Digital Lecture SW701.

La Rose, T. (2020). The Golden Era of Social Policy. Digital Lecture SW701.

La Rose, T. (2020). Classical and Social Liberalism. Digital Lecture SW701.

La Rose, T. (2020). Neoliberalism and Inclusive Liberalism. Digital Lecture SW701.

La Rose, T. (2020). Post-liberalism. Digital Lecture SW701.

La Rose, T., & Veltman, A. (2017). Queer Queering and Questioning: Digital Narratives for Healthcare Education – Module 1: Patient-Centered Care with LGBTQ Communities. Digital Module.

La Rose, T., & Veltman, A. (2017). Queer Queering and Questioning: Project Overview. Digital Module.

La Rose, T., & Veltman, A. (2017). Queer Queering and Questioning: Finding Resources and Supports for LGBTQ Healthcare. Digital Module.

La Rose, T. (2015). Video Lectures for Introduction to Social Welfare (SOWK 1001). Video Modules.

Conclusion

Tara La Rose is highly suitable for the Research for Best Innovation Award. Her strong research background, leadership in academia, contributions to pedagogy, and recognition in her field make her a compelling candidate. To enhance her candidacy, focusing on broader impact strategies, increasing her research publications, and engaging in collaborative projects could further strengthen her profile. Overall, her achievements and ongoing contributions position her well for this prestigious award.