Assoc Prof. Dr. Ghazal Zandkarimi | Psychopathology and Therapy | Outstanding Academic Achievement Award 

Dr. Ghazal Zandkarimi is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Outstanding Academic Achievement Award. Her extensive background in psychology, coupled with a rich history of research, publication, and academic leadership, supports her candidacy. Here’s a breakdown of her strengths, areas for improvement, and a conclusion based on the information provided:

Strengths for the Award

1. Extensive Academic and Professional Background:
   • Degrees and Certifications: Dr. Zandkarimi holds a PhD in Cognitive-Clinical Psychology and has pursued international courses in various therapeutic approaches, including CBT, MCT, NVC, and neuro-feedback therapy. These credentials reflect her commitment to advanced and diverse psychological practices.
2. Research Contributions:
   • Publications: Her body of work includes numerous articles in reputable journals covering a wide range of topics such as stress, cognitive functions, and therapy outcomes. Notably, her research has been featured in journals like the International Journal of Psychology and Brain and the Journal of Behavioral Research.
   • Books: Dr. Zandkarimi has authored books on stress management, self-discipline, and emotional control, showcasing her expertise and contribution to practical psychological resources.
3. Educational and Work Experience:
   • Teaching and Supervision: Her roles as a faculty member at multiple universities and as a supervisor of numerous MA theses indicate her significant contribution to the academic community and mentorship of future psychologists.
   • Clinical and Administrative Roles: Her experience as a clinical psychologist, head of the Psychology Department at Refah University, and involvement in designing psychological laboratories and e-learning systems highlight her leadership and practical application of psychological knowledge.
4. Conference Participation and Recognition:
   • Conferences: Dr. Zandkarimi has presented at various national and international conferences, receiving accolades such as the PhD Scholar Award and letters of appreciation. Her active participation in conferences underscores her engagement with the global academic community.
5. Awards and Honors:
   • Recognition: Being a top researcher at Alzahra University and a member of the National Elites Foundation are significant honors that reflect her impact and prominence in her field.

Areas for Improvement

1. Broader Dissemination of Research:
   • While Dr. Zandkarimi has a substantial number of publications, increasing the visibility and impact of her research through collaborations with international researchers or publishing in higher-impact journals could further enhance her academic profile.
2. Interdisciplinary Research:
   • Expanding her research into interdisciplinary areas could provide new insights and applications. For example, exploring connections between psychological theories and emerging fields like artificial intelligence or environmental psychology could offer innovative contributions.
3. Research Grants and Funding:
   • Securing more research grants and funding could enable larger-scale studies or longitudinal research projects, potentially leading to more significant findings and contributions to the field.

Conclusion

Dr. Ghazal Zandkarimi’s impressive qualifications, extensive research, and substantial contributions to the field of psychology make her a strong candidate for the Research for Outstanding Academic Achievement Award. Her dedication to advancing psychological science through teaching, clinical practice, and research is evident. By addressing the areas for improvement, particularly in expanding the dissemination and scope of her research, she could further elevate her impact and recognition in the academic community.