Yong Ma | Resource Economics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yong Ma | Resource Economics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yong Ma, Shanghai University of Electric Power, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yong Ma is an esteemed scholar in Environmental and Resource Economics, currently serving at the School of Economics & Management, Shanghai University of Electric Power. He holds a Ph.D. in Human Geography from East China Normal University, an MBA from Xi’an Jiaotong University, and a Bachelor’s in Economics from Henan University of Economics and Law. With over a decade of academic experience, he lectures on microeconomics, macroeconomics, regional economics, and energy economic geography. Dr. Ma completed his postdoctoral fellowship at Shanghai Jiaotong University and has received prestigious awards, including the Second Prize for Decision-making Consultation Research from Shanghai Municipality and recognition from the Shanghai Education Commission. His research is supported by grants from the National Social Science Foundation and Chinese Postdoctoral Science Foundation. A prolific author, Dr. Ma has published extensively on R&D globalization, digital economy, carbon emissions, and urban development, contributing significantly to policy and academic discourse in China.

Publication Profile

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Teaching Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yong Ma has demonstrated extensive and progressive teaching experience at the School of Economics & Management, Shanghai University of Electric Power. Since 2018, he has served as an Associate Professor, delivering a wide range of courses including Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Environmental and Resource Economics, Energy Economic Geography, Regional Economics, and Electricity Economics. His multidisciplinary teaching reflects his expertise in economic theory and its practical applications to energy and environmental systems. Prior to this, from 2014 to 2018, he worked as a Lecturer at the same institution, where he was responsible for teaching Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Environmental and Resource Economics, Economic Geography, and Circular Economics. His commitment to academic excellence and curriculum development has significantly contributed to nurturing students in both foundational and specialized areas of economics. Dr. Ma’s teaching approach emphasizes analytical thinking, sustainability, and regional development, aligning well with the evolving landscape of economics and environmental management.

Postdoctoral Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yong Ma undertook a prestigious postdoctoral research fellowship at the Antai School of Economics & Management, Shanghai Jiaotong University—one of China’s top academic institutions. Under the supervision of Prof. Luo Shougui, Dr. Ma engaged in advanced research focused on regional innovation, economic development, and the strategic dynamics of R&D in emerging industries. This postdoctoral experience deepened his expertise in environmental and resource economics, while also enhancing his analytical capabilities in evaluating policy impacts and industrial trends. The research conducted during this period contributed to several high-quality publications and laid the foundation for his later academic pursuits in regional economic integration and energy systems. This fellowship marked a critical phase in Dr. Ma’s academic journey, shaping his interdisciplinary approach to economics and his continued contribution to the fields of innovation policy, urban economics, and sustainable development.

Educational Background

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yong Ma possesses a robust and interdisciplinary academic foundation in economics, business, and geography. He earned his Ph.D. in Human Geography from the School of Urban and Regional Science at East China Normal University, Shanghai (2006–2010), under the mentorship of Prof. Du Debin. His doctoral research equipped him with a deep understanding of spatial economic patterns and regional development. Prior to this, he completed his Master of Business Administration (2000–2003) at Xi’an Jiaotong University, where he was guided by Prof. Wen Qixiang and developed strategic insight into organizational and industrial management. Dr. Ma began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Economics degree from Henan University of Economics and Law (1993–1997), which laid the groundwork for his subsequent scholarly pursuits. This comprehensive educational trajectory has significantly contributed to his expertise in environmental and resource economics, innovation systems, and regional policy analysis.

Awards and Honours

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yong Ma has been the recipient of several prestigious awards that highlight his impactful contributions to academia and policy research. In 2018, he was honored with the Second Prize of the Shanghai Municipality for Decision-making Consultation Research Achievements, recognizing his valuable input in shaping evidence-based public policy (ranked 9th). This award underscores his influence in bridging academic research with practical governance. In 2020, he was named a “Role Model for Imparting Knowledge and Educating People” by the Shanghai University of Electric Power, a testament to his dedication to teaching excellence and student mentorship. Further acknowledging his educational impact, Dr. Ma received a Meritorious Commendation in 2021 from the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission. These accolades reflect his commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering academic integrity, and contributing meaningfully to societal development through both research and education.

Research Focus

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yong Ma’s research primarily focuses on the intersection of environmental economics, regional development, and innovation policy. His work explores critical themes such as the spatial distribution of foreign investment, regional economic integration, and the environmental impact of industrial activity. Notable studies include evaluations of energy–economy–environment systems in the Yangtze River Delta and the measurement of high-quality development in the new energy sector, reflecting his commitment to sustainable regional planning. Additionally, his research on the diffusion of the digital economy and urban carbon emission performance highlights the environmental consequences of economic modernization and market integration. By analyzing foreign R&D dependence in China’s high-tech industries, Dr. Ma also contributes to understanding globalization’s influence on national innovation systems. Overall, his research aligns with key domains such as environmental and resource economics, regional economic systems, energy policy, and digital transformation, offering valuable insights into sustainable economic development in rapidly evolving urban regions.

Publication Top Notes

  • Study on the Spatial Distribution and Location Selection of Foreign Investment in China – Ma Yong, 2017

  • Evaluation of Coordinated Development of Energy, Economy and Environment Systems in the Yangtze River Delta Region – Ma Yong, Liu Ying, Wang Xiaoke, 2024

  • Measurement of High-Quality Development Level of New Energy Industry in the Yangtze River Delta and Analysis of Temporal and Spatial Differences – Ma Yong, Liu Ying, Ma Xiaofan, 2024

  • The Calculation and Comparative Study of Foreign Investment Dependence of China’s High-Tech Industry R&D – Ma Yong, 2017

  • Study on the Coupling Relationship Between the Concept Diffusion of “Digital Economy” and Development of Regional Digital Economy – Ma Yong, Liu Ying, Li Yaqi, 2025

  • The Impact of Market Integration on Urban Carbon Emission Performance: Evidence from the Yangtze River Delta – Ma Yong, Liu Ying, Li Yaqi, 2025

Godfrey J. Kweka | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Godfrey J. Kweka | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Godfrey J. Kweka, Moshi Co-operative University, Tanzania

📊 Dr. Godfrey Joachim Kweka is a Senior Lecturer and Head of the Research and Publications Unit at Moshi Co-operative University (MoCU), Tanzania. He holds a PhD in Public Sector and Development Economics from the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) in collaboration with the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC). Dr. Kweka specializes in public sector, agricultural, development, and labor economics. He has published widely on topics like taxation, agriculture, and international trade. Additionally, Dr. Kweka has contributed to high-profile research projects funded by REPOA and MoCU. A member of AERC, he has also served as a peer reviewer for several journals and was recently appointed editor for a Tanzanian macroeconomics textbook. 📚

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Kweka has a solid academic foundation, with a PhD in Economics from the University of Dar es Salaam, specializing in public sector and development economics. His advanced training, combined with his expertise in labor, agricultural, and public sector economics, positions him as a knowledgeable researcher capable of addressing significant economic issues.

Research Experience

He has an extensive research portfolio, publishing articles on topics such as taxation, agriculture, economic growth, cooperatives, and international trade. His work has contributed to policy discussions and economic research within Tanzania, especially in areas affecting public welfare and development. Moreover, his role as a peer reviewer for reputable journals emphasizes his credibility in the research community.

Conclusion

Dr. Godfrey J. Kweka is highly suitable for the “Best Researcher Award.” His contributions to public sector economics, particularly within the Tanzanian context, align well with the award’s goal of recognizing impactful research and academic excellence.

 

 

Jiunn-Rong Chiou | Energy Economics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Jiunn-Rong Chiou | Energy Economics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Jiunn-Rong Chiou, National Central University/Department of Economics, Taiwan

🌍 Professor of Economics at National Central University, Taiwan, Prof. Jiunn-Rong Chiou specializes in International Trade, Industrial Economics, Energy Economics, and Environmental Economics. He earned his B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in Economics from National Taiwan University. With extensive academic experience, he has held significant positions, including Associate Dean and Chairman of various departments. Notably, he served as Deputy Minister of the National Development Council (2017-2018). His accolades include the Taiwan National Science Counsel Research Award (1996, 1998-2024) and recognition as the Best Teacher (2010). 🌱✏️📊

Publication Profile

Scopus

Academic Qualifications and Experience

Prof. Dr. Jiunn-Rong Chiou holds multiple degrees in Economics, including a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. from National Taiwan University, which reflects a strong foundational knowledge in his field. His academic journey has seen him progress from an associate professor to a full professor at National Central University, demonstrating both expertise and leadership in economics education. His experience as Chairman of various departments and as Associate Dean showcases his commitment to academia and educational excellence.

Research Focus and Contributions

Prof. Chiou’s research interests span several crucial areas, including International Trade, Industrial Economics, Energy Economics, and Environmental Economics. His long-standing involvement in these fields, coupled with consistent funding and recognition through the Taiwan National Science Counsel Research Awards from 1996 to 2024, underscores his sustained contributions to economic research. His work not only advances academic understanding but also has practical implications for policy and economic development.

Teaching Excellence and Recognition

Prof. Chiou’s accolades, such as being named The Best Teacher in the School of Management and receiving the Excellent Research Award, reflect his dual commitment to teaching and research. These honors are indicative of his impact on students and the academic community, highlighting his ability to inspire future economists while also contributing significantly to his field of study.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Jiunn-Rong Chiou exemplifies the qualities of a leading researcher deserving of the Research for Best Researcher Award. His extensive academic background, impactful research, teaching excellence, and leadership roles not only contribute to the field of economics but also position him as a role model for future researchers and policymakers.

 

Publication Top Notes  

  • Strategic and Altruistic Corporate Environmental Responsibility in a Green Market (2024)🌱📊
  • The Impact of Foreign Ownership on the Choice between Emission Taxes and Emission Standards (2022) – Cited by 1 📉🌍
  • Strategic Intermediate Goods Pricing and Foreign Direct Investment (2021)  💹🌐
  • Optimal Privatization Policy with Bertrand Competition (2018) – Cited by 6 📈⚖️
  • Entry and Import Quota (2017) – Cited by 0 📊📉
  • Taxation on a Mixed Oligopoly in the Presence of Foreign Ownership (2016) – Cited by 7 💼💰
  • Can Privatization be a Catalyst for Environmental R&D and Result in a Cleaner Environment? (2016) – Cited by 39 ♻️💡
  • An Analysis of Policy Harmonization on Privatization and Trade Liberalization (2015) – Cited by 5 🌏⚙️
  • Optimal Privatization Policy in the Presence of Network Externalities (2015) – Cited by 5 🔗📊
  • Tariffs and Environmental Taxes in the Presence of Environmental R&D (2015) – Cited by 12 🌿💵

 

 

Yismaw Ayelign Mengistu | Development Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yismaw Ayelign Mengistu | Development Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yismaw Ayelign Mengistu, Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia

Dr. Yismaw Ayelign Mengistu is an accomplished academic from Ethiopia, currently serving as the Coordinator of Research and Community Services at the College of Business and Economics, Debre Tabor University. He holds a PhD in Development Economics from Punjabi University, India, and has extensive experience in teaching and research leadership. With a strong background in urban management and economic planning, he is proficient in econometrics and data analysis using STATA and SPSS. Dr. Mengistu is fluent in Amharic and English, demonstrating excellent communication skills. He is dedicated to advancing research and community engagement in economics. 📚🤝

 

Publication Profile

Orcid

Professional Background

Dr. Yismaw Ayelign Mengistu is an accomplished academic and researcher from Ethiopia, with a significant background in development economics. He currently serves as the Coordinator of Research and Community Services at the College of Business and Economics at Debre Tabor University. His extensive experience in various academic and administrative roles demonstrates his leadership capabilities and commitment to fostering research and community engagement.

Academic Qualifications

Dr. Mengistu holds a PhD in Development Economics from Punjabi University in India, along with multiple degrees in related fields, including a Master’s degree in Urban Management from the Ethiopian Civil Service University and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Hawasa University. This robust educational foundation equips him with a comprehensive understanding of economic theories and applications, making him well-suited for research in his field.

Research and Work Experience

His career spans over a decade, including key positions such as Head of the Department of Economics and various coordinator roles in revenue collection and planning. His work in these capacities involves significant research responsibilities, particularly in development economics and local economic development. The experience he has accumulated in both academic and practical settings enhances his qualifications for research-oriented awards.

Conclusion

Dr. Yismaw Ayelign Mengistu’s academic credentials, extensive experience in research and community services, and commitment to continuous professional development position him as a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to development economics, combined with his effective communication and leadership skills, make him an excellent choice for recognition in this category.

Publication Top Notes  

The effect of livelihood diversification on food security: evidence from Ethiopia

Short-and long-run technical efficiency analysis: Application to ethiopian manufacturing firms

The Effect of Personal Remittance on Poverty Reduction in Sub Saharan Africa

 

 

Bongumusa Prince Makhoba | Economics, Econometrics and Finance | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Bongumusa Prince Makhoba | Economics, Econometrics and Finance | Young Scientist Award

Senior Lecturer,  University of Zululand,  South Africa

Dr. Bongumusa Prince Makhoba is an outstanding candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award, exemplifying dedication to economics and education. As a Senior Lecturer at the University of Zululand, he has a robust academic background, including a Ph.D. in Economics and several postgraduate qualifications. His extensive teaching and supervision experience equips him to mentor future economists effectively. Active in research and professional organizations, Dr. Makhoba contributes significantly to advancing economic knowledge. His passion for nurturing young talent and commitment to academia make him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award, highlighting his potential for further contributions to the field.

Publication Profile :

Scopus

Educational Background :

Dr. Bongumusa Prince Makhoba possesses an impressive educational background that reflects his dedication to economics and education. He earned his Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Zululand in 2021, following his Master’s in Economics from the same institution in 2018. Dr. Makhoba also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education from the University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education from the University of South Africa (UNISA). His academic journey is complemented by various honors, including a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and Business Management, and participation in prestigious international programs, enhancing his qualifications and expertise.

Professional Experience :

Dr. Bongumusa Prince Makhoba has extensive professional experience as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Economics at the University of Zululand since January 2024. His responsibilities include lecturing in International Economics, Public Economics, and Econometrics, alongside coordinating tutorials and assessments for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Dr. Makhoba actively supervises Master’s and Honours research projects, contributing to students’ academic growth. Previously, he held various lecturer positions at the same institution, where he focused on Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Economic Research. His dedication to teaching and mentorship has fostered a dynamic learning environment, shaping the future of economics education.

Research Skills :

Dr. Bongumusa Prince Makhoba possesses a diverse set of research skills that make him a valuable contributor to the field of economics. His expertise includes both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, allowing him to tackle complex economic questions with precision. Dr. Makhoba is proficient in statistical and data analysis, utilizing advanced software such as Stata, EViews, SPSS, and R-Studio to interpret and present data effectively. He also excels in desktop and fieldwork-based research, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of economic phenomena. His strong analytical capabilities, combined with attention to detail, enable him to produce high-quality research that significantly impacts the academic community.

Award And Recognition :

Dr. Bongumusa Prince Makhoba has garnered significant recognition for his outstanding contributions to the field of economics. In 2023, he was honored with the Vice Chancellor’s Teaching Excellence Award for his innovative teaching methods and commitment to student success. Additionally, his nomination by the Academy of Science of South Africa to attend the prestigious Lindau Meeting in Germany highlights his exceptional promise as a young economist. As a member of the South African Young Academy of Science, Dr. Makhoba continues to influence and inspire fellow researchers, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the academic community.

Conclusion :

In conclusion, Dr. Bongumusa Prince Makhoba embodies the spirit of the Research for Young Scientist Award through his academic achievements, research contributions, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of economists. His qualifications, experience, and passion for economics make him an outstanding candidate worthy of recognition and support as he continues to make significant contributions to the field.

Publication Top Notes :

  • Asymmetric and threshold effects of public debt on economic growth in SADC: a panel smooth transition regression analysis
    Makhoba, B.P., Kaseeram, I., Greyling, L.
    African Journal of Economic and Management Studies, 2022, 13(2), pp. 165–176.
    Citations: 2
  • Fiscal policy, sovereign debt and economic growth in SADC economies: A panel vector autoregression analysis
    Makhoba, B.P., Kaseeram, I.
    Cogent Economics and Finance, 2022, 10(1), 2107149.
    Citations: 3
  • Asymmetric effects of public debt on economic growth: Evidence from emerging and frontier SADC economies
    Makhoba, B.P., Kaseeram, I., Greyling, L.
    Cogent Economics and Finance, 2022, 10(1), 2046323.
    Citations: 5
  • A scrutiny into fiscal policy in the South African economy: A Bayesian approach with hierarchical priors
    Zungu, L.T., Makhoba, B.P., Greyling, L.
    Cogent Economics and Finance, 2022, 10(1), 2028975.
    Citations: 6
  • Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth in South Africa: Is there a Mutually Beneficial Relationship?
    Makhoba, B.P., Zungu, L.T.
    African Journal of Business and Economic Research, 2021, 16(4), pp. 101–115.
    Citations: 3
  • Investigating asymmetric effects of public debt on economic growth in South Africa: a smooth transition regression (STAR) approach
    Makhoba, B.P., Kaseeram, I., Greyling, L.
    African Journal of Economic and Management Studies, 2021, 12(3), pp. 486–498.
    Citations: 3
  • Assessing the impact of fiscal policy on economic growth in South Africa
    Makhoba, B.P., Kaseeram, I., Greyling, L.
    African Journal of Business and Economic Research, 2019, 14(1), pp. 7–29.

Dr. Yan YUAN | Economics Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yan YUAN | Economics Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yan YUAN, Shenzhen School of Management and Finance, Chinese University of Hong Kong, China

Yan Yuan is a dedicated financial engineering scholar with a strong academic background and research interests in financial risk measurement, bank supervision, and the systemic risk of the real estate market. He earned his Master’s degree in Financial Engineering from Wuhan University, where he received several honors, including first-class academic scholarships for his outstanding performance. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Finance at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen), Yan has authored multiple research papers focusing on the impact of urban air pollution on housing prices and systemic risk in banking. His expertise in statistical programming languages like STATA and R, combined with his involvement in significant academic projects, positions him as a promising researcher in the field of finance.

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Orcid

Suitability Summary for the Best Researcher Award: Yan Yuan

Yan Yuan is a remarkable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, distinguished by his innovative research in financial engineering, academic excellence, and strong quantitative skills. His publications and ongoing projects demonstrate a keen understanding of systemic risk in finance, making significant contributions to the field. Awarding him this recognition would not only honor his current achievements but also support his promising career as a leading researcher in finance, encouraging further exploration of critical financial issues that impact economies globally. Yan’s youthful vigor combined with his depth of knowledge positions him as a potential future leader in financial research.

🎓Education:

Yan Yuan is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Finance at the School of Management and Finance, Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen), expected to be completed in 2024. He earned his Master’s degree in Financial Engineering from the Economics and Management School at Wuhan University from 2017 to 2021. During his master’s studies, Yan focused on financial risk measurement and supervision, particularly in the banking sector. His academic achievements include several honors, such as the First-Class Academic Scholarship of WHU (awarded to the top 5% of students for two consecutive years), the Jinglin Academic Scholarship (top 8% for three consecutive years), and recognition as an Excellent Graduate of WHU (top 10%). He also received a First-Class Academic Scholarship from the Central University of Finance and Economics (top 30%) and won the First Prize at the Youth Forum of the First “Financial China” Academic Summit as the first author (excluding the supervisor). Additionally, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Financial Engineering from the School of Finance at the Central University of Finance and Economics, completed in 2021.

🏢Work Experience:

Yan Yuan has actively participated in various research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the Social Science Foundation of China (SSFC). His contributions to these projects have played a crucial role in advancing significant research in the field of financial engineering, further enhancing his expertise and experience in financial risk measurement and systemic risk assessment.

🏅Awards:

Yan Yuan has received multiple academic scholarships and recognitions at Wuhan University for his academic excellence, reflecting his dedication and outstanding performance during his studies. Notably, he was awarded the First Prize at the Youth Forum of the First “Financial China” Academic Summit for his significant research contributions, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of finance.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Title: Urban air pollution and systemic risk of the real estate market in China
  • Title: Media sentiment, deposit stability and bank systemic risk: Evidence from China
  • Citations: 1