Busra Buran | Decision Making | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Busra Buran | Decision Making | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar| Istanbul Technical University, Turkey

Dr. Büşra Buran, born on August 13, 1988, in Kocaeli, Turkey, is a prominent expert in management engineering with a career deeply rooted in public transportation strategy and optimization. She currently serves as the Head of Strategy Development at IETT, Istanbul’s public transport authority. With over a decade of professional experience, Dr. Buran has successfully led numerous projects involving strategic planning, quality management, service improvement, and international collaboration. Her academic achievements include a Ph.D. in Management Engineering from Istanbul Technical University, an M.Sc. in Industrial Engineering from Galatasaray University, and a B.Eng. in Industrial Engineering from Yıldız Technical University. Fluent in English, she combines technical expertise with leadership capabilities, supported by various certifications in project management, quality control, and innovation. Her work has been recognized internationally, and she actively contributes to research with several publications focusing on fuzzy logic applications, transportation models, and digital transformation strategies in public transit systems.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Büşra Buran holds a robust academic background in industrial and management engineering. She completed her Ph.D. in Business Management Engineering at Istanbul Technical University (2018–2023), graduating with a GPA of 3.5/4. Her doctoral research focused on advanced decision-making methods and innovation in public transportation. Prior to that, she earned her Master of Science in Industrial Engineering from Galatasaray University (2010–2012), achieving a GPA of 3.5/4. She began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Yıldız Technical University (2007–2010), graduating with distinction (3.4/4). Her academic excellence is complemented by certifications in project management, innovation, quality systems, and team leadership. Dr. Buran’s education is deeply integrated with applied engineering practices, statistical modeling (SPSS, Minitab), simulation tools (Simul8), and machine learning (R), equipping her with a strong foundation in both theory and practice. Her studies enabled her to apply analytical, technical, and managerial skills to large-scale public service systems.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Büşra Buran has extensive professional experience in the public transportation sector, primarily at IETT, Istanbul’s leading transit authority. Since 2017, she has been serving as the Head of Strategy Development, where she manages strategic planning, performance metrics, quality systems, corporate innovation, and international partnerships. From 2014 to 2017, she was the Manager of Service Improvement, leading the development of a service quality model, auditing standards, and benchmarking global practices. Between 2013 and 2014, she worked as the Manager of Operation Planning, handling performance analysis and optimization of bus networks, including collaborative projects with TÜBİTAK. Her career began in 2010 as a Consultant for Istanbul’s Bus Rapid Transit system, optimizing routes and managing training for international BRT implementations. She is experienced in project management, process auditing, KPI reporting, and digital transformation. Her leadership has significantly enhanced the efficiency and global standing of Istanbul’s public transport network.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Büşra Buran has consistently demonstrated academic and professional excellence throughout her career. She graduated with honors at every level—achieving GPAs of 3.4/4 in her undergraduate studies, 3.5/4 in her master’s, and 3.5/4 during her Ph.D. She has also been recognized for her contributions to transportation planning and quality improvement at IETT, receiving internal commendations for successful project outcomes and strategic innovations. Her scientific research on fuzzy logic applications in public transport and sentiment analysis during the COVID-19 pandemic has been published in prestigious journals and international conferences by Springer and Elsevier. She has also earned certifications in Project Management, Corporate Quality, Risk & Process Management, and Leadership Innovation, strengthening her credentials as a thought leader in urban mobility systems. Her scholarly achievements, combined with her impactful real-world projects, highlight her as a distinguished figure in engineering management and urban transportation.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Buran’s research centers on the intersection of engineering management, public transportation systems, and fuzzy decision-making models. Her Ph.D. work and subsequent publications explore advanced methodologies such as Spherical and Intuitionistic Fuzzy AHP, hybrid fuzzy systems, sentiment analysis, and business model frameworks tailored for urban transport. She has published widely on topics such as bus type selection, public transport quality modeling, and global benchmarking of transit business models. Her studies frequently employ machine learning and simulation tools like R and Simul8, along with statistical software for system optimization. A significant part of her work also delves into digital transformation, strategic innovation, and service efficiency in public bus systems, particularly in mega-cities like Istanbul. Her research not only contributes theoretical advancements in engineering management but also provides practical insights for decision-makers in transit agencies, enhancing transportation planning, passenger satisfaction, and sustainable mobility strategies.

Conclusion

Dr. Büşra Buran exemplifies the synergy between academic research and public sector innovation. With her strong background in industrial and management engineering, she has driven strategic advancements in Istanbul’s public transportation. Her work is a testament to effective leadership, data-driven decision-making, and continuous quality improvement in urban mobility systems.

Publications

Han Xi | Problem Solving | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Han Xi | Problem Solving | Best Researcher Award

Han Xi is a dedicated Lecturer at Huanghe Jiaotong University and a doctoral candidate in Traffic Engineering at Chongqing Jiaotong University (expected 2025), currently engaged in cutting-edge research on asphalt aging mechanisms and the development of anti-aging road materials. Since joining the academic faculty in 2020, Han has undertaken significant research, contributing to national-level projects such as the Henan Provincial Social Sciences Association Project. With published articles in reputed journals like Material Guide and Journal of Chongqing Jiaotong University, and patents addressing asphalt UV aging testing, Han’s work bridges theoretical innovation with practical engineering application. Passionate about infrastructure sustainability, she explores microstructural changes in asphalt due to UV exposure and seeks to enhance material performance through novel compositions. Her contributions extend to advancing scientific understanding and industrial applications in pavement material science. Han Xi exemplifies interdisciplinary innovation at the intersection of civil engineering and material science.

Profile

Education 🎓

Han Xi began her academic journey at Huanghe Jiaotong University in 2020 and was soon enrolled in the Contractual Doctoral Training Program in Traffic Engineering at Chongqing Jiaotong University in 2021. She is anticipated to complete her doctoral degree by June 2025. Her academic focus is on the intersection of materials science and transportation engineering, especially the impact of ultraviolet (UV) aging on asphalt materials. During her doctoral studies, Han has explored the structural and chemical evolution of asphalt subjected to environmental stressors, contributing to a deeper understanding of material degradation. She integrates theoretical analysis with experimental validation, utilizing advanced testing systems to study rheological and molecular transformations in aged road materials. Her educational path reflects a strong commitment to research excellence, practical innovation, and cross-disciplinary problem-solving, preparing her to address real-world engineering challenges with scientific rigor and methodological precision.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Since 2020, Han Xi has served as a Lecturer at Huanghe Jiaotong University, where she teaches and guides undergraduate students while actively conducting research in road materials engineering. Her experience includes managing a provincial research project and contributing to the design of experimental setups for asphalt aging analysis. Simultaneously, she has undertaken her PhD studies through a contractual training program at Chongqing Jiaotong University, balancing academic responsibilities with doctoral research. Han’s professional journey is marked by innovation, such as her development of patented UV aging testing devices for asphalt. She has presented and published scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals and engaged in collaborations that merge scientific inquiry with practical infrastructure solutions. Her dual roles in teaching and research have allowed her to inspire students while contributing significantly to advancements in road engineering, with a focus on environmental durability and material longevity

Research Interests 🔬

Han Xi’s research centers on the aging mechanisms of asphalt, particularly under ultraviolet (UV) radiation, with a goal of developing advanced, anti-aging road materials that improve pavement durability. She investigates the molecular structure changes, rheological behavior, and chemical transformations that occur during UV and coupled aging processes. Her work combines theoretical modeling with practical experimentation using custom-designed devices—evidenced by her two patented innovations—to simulate and measure asphalt degradation. Through her ongoing doctoral research at Chongqing Jiaotong University, Han examines the structure-activity relationship of aged asphalt and correlates macroscopic changes with microscopic composition. This research provides valuable insights for enhancing the lifespan of road infrastructure and supports the development of environmentally resilient transportation systems. Her scientific contributions aim to solve real-world problems in road engineering by integrating material science, environmental factors, and performance analytics into a unified research agenda focused on sustainable infrastructure.

Fan Zhang | Proteomics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fan Zhang | Proteomics | Best Researcher Award

Fan Zhang, born on September 23, 1991, is a postdoctoral researcher specializing in cancer proteogenomics 🔬. He is currently with the Department of Pathology at Duke University 🏛️. His research leverages mass spectrometry and bioinformatics 🖥️ to investigate metabolic pathways in therapy-resistant prostate cancer and other malignancies. He has received the FY23 Prostate Cancer Research Program Early Investigator Research Award 🏆 for his work on glutamine metabolism in advanced prostate cancer. His contributions to proteogenomics have resulted in multiple high-impact publications 📄 in Nature Communications, Cell Research, and Molecular & Cellular Proteomics. Proficient in LC-MS/MS, bioinformatics analysis, and experimental techniques, his research bridges the gap between basic cancer biology and clinical applications 🏥, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies in oncology.

Profile

Education 🎓

Fan Zhang holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Fudan University (2015-2020), where he focused on proteogenomic research. He further pursued postdoctoral training in Clinical Medicine at Fudan University (2020-2022) before joining Duke University as a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Pathology in 2023. His academic journey began with a B.S. in Applied Biological Science from Anhui Agricultural University (2011-2015). Throughout his education, he gained expertise in genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, developing a strong foundation in bioinformatics and experimental methodologies. His interdisciplinary training has equipped him with skills in mass spectrometry-based proteomics, omics data analysis, and cancer metabolism research. His current research at Duke University focuses on metabolic vulnerabilities in prostate cancer, aiming to develop targeted therapies. His diverse academic background enables him to integrate various scientific disciplines, contributing significantly to cancer research and precision medicine.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Fan Zhang has extensive research experience in cancer proteogenomics. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at Duke University (2023-present), he investigates metabolic vulnerabilities in prostate cancer using advanced mass spectrometry and omics analysis. Previously, he was a postdoc in Clinical Medicine at Fudan University (2020-2022), where he contributed to proteogenomic studies on various cancers, including pituitary neuroendocrine tumors and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. His Ph.D. at Fudan University (2015-2020) focused on proteogenomic characterizations of cancer, leading to high-impact publications. He is proficient in LC-MS/MS, bioinformatics, and experimental methodologies such as Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and cell culture. His research integrates mass spectrometry with genomics and transcriptomics to uncover novel therapeutic targets. With expertise in multi-omics data analysis, he has significantly contributed to the field of cancer biology. His work is supported by prestigious grants, highlighting his role as a leading researcher in proteogenomics and precision oncology.

Research Interests 🔬

Fan Zhang’s research focuses on proteogenomics and cancer metabolism, particularly in therapy-resistant malignancies like prostate cancer, pituitary neuroendocrine tumors, and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. He specializes in mass spectrometry-based proteomics (DDA, DIA) and integrates multi-omics approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, to uncover novel cancer vulnerabilities. His current work at Duke University investigates glutamine metabolism in castration-resistant prostate cancer, aiming to develop targeted therapies. His expertise extends to bioinformatics analysis, large-cohort omics data interpretation, and advanced LC-MS/MS techniques for various biological samples. His research has led to multiple high-impact publications, highlighting his ability to translate complex molecular data into potential clinical applications. By combining experimental and computational approaches, he aims to identify biomarkers and therapeutic targets that can improve cancer treatment. His contributions to proteogenomics play a crucial role in advancing precision oncology and understanding the metabolic reprogramming of aggressive cancers.

 

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Fan Zhang has received multiple awards and recognitions for his contributions to cancer proteogenomics. He was awarded the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) Prostate Cancer Research Program (PCRP) Early Investigator Research Award (2023-2025) for his project on targeting glutamine metabolism in advanced prostate cancer (Award Number HT9425-24-1-0237). His research has been recognized through multiple first-author and co-first-author publications in high-impact journals such as Nature Communications, Molecular & Cellular Proteomics, Cell Research, and The Prostate. His work has also been featured as a cover article in Cell Research (2022). His expertise in mass spectrometry, proteogenomics, and bioinformatics has positioned him as a leading young investigator in the field. In addition to research grants, he has received accolades for his innovative contributions to metabolic studies in oncology. His commitment to advancing cancer research has been instrumental in developing novel therapeutic strategies for therapy-resistant malignancies.

Publications 📚

Rakesh Meena | Applied Mathematics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Rakesh Meena | Applied Mathematics | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar at Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, India

Mr. Rakesh Meena is a promising researcher and Ph.D. candidate at the Department of Mathematics, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SVNIT), Surat, India. His academic journey is characterized by a focus on advanced mathematical modeling, fractional calculus, and differential equations. With a blend of theoretical and computational expertise, Mr. Meena is dedicated to contributing to innovative solutions in applied mathematics, particularly in areas like epidemic modeling and dynamic systems. He is driven by the desire to combine research with teaching to foster academic growth and knowledge sharing. Throughout his career, he has earned recognition through prestigious scholarships and fellowships, such as the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) from CSIR-UGC. His research contributions, including numerous journal publications and conference presentations, reflect his deep commitment to advancing mathematical sciences. Mr. Meena’s aspirations align with the goal of bringing meaningful change to both the academic community and society through his research and teaching.

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

Orcid

 

Education 🎓

Mr. Rakesh Meena’s educational background forms a solid foundation for his research career. He began his academic journey at Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SVNIT), Surat, where he completed his Five-Year Integrated M.Sc. in Mathematics with first division in 2020. Following this, he embarked on his Ph.D. in Mathematics, with a focus on linear and nonlinear fractional differential equations. Under the guidance of Dr. Sushil Kumar, he has made notable progress in mathematical modeling, particularly through the semi-analytical approach. His cumulative performance during his Ph.D. coursework reflects dedication, maintaining a CGPA of 7.25. Throughout his education, Mr. Meena has demonstrated a continuous pursuit of knowledge, aiming to contribute to the vast field of mathematical sciences. His educational path has not only provided him with strong analytical skills but also a deep understanding of both theoretical and computational methods. This educational experience, combined with his passion for research, serves as a solid launchpad for his future contributions to the scientific community.

Work Experience 💼

Mr. Rakesh Meena’s professional experience includes extensive academic research at the Department of Mathematics, SVNIT, Surat. Currently pursuing his Ph.D., Mr. Meena has contributed to a range of mathematical research, particularly in fractional calculus, epidemic modeling, and nonlinear differential equations. His expertise in using semi-analytical methods, such as the Residual Power Series (RPS) method and Homotopy Analysis Method, allows him to solve complex mathematical equations, which are pivotal in the fields of mathematical modeling and computational mathematics. As a junior and senior research fellow (JRF/SRF), he has been involved in multiple research projects that align with his goal of applying mathematical theory to real-world problems. Additionally, Mr. Meena has shared his research findings through several journal articles and conference papers, expanding his influence in academic circles. Beyond research, his role in mentoring and teaching aligns with his long-term goal of working in an institution where teaching and research go hand-in-hand. His participation in both national and international conferences further strengthens his professional experience, offering him a platform to engage with global research communities.

Awards and Honors

Mr. Rakesh Meena has been the recipient of several prestigious awards and fellowships, recognizing his academic excellence and research potential. In 2020, he was awarded the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) by CSIR-UGC, which was followed by the Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) in 2022. These fellowships are granted to outstanding researchers in the field of mathematical sciences and are a testament to his proficiency and dedication to research. Additionally, Mr. Meena qualified for GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) in both 2022 and 2023, further cementing his academic credentials. His work, particularly in mathematical modeling and fractional calculus, has earned him recognition in the academic community. His achievements also include being a recipient of certification from CSIR-HRDG, highlighting his commitment to continuous learning and development. These awards and honors reflect Mr. Meena’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of mathematical research, and they serve as a foundation for his continued contributions to the scientific community.

Research Interests

Mr. Rakesh Meena’s primary research interests lie in mathematical modeling, fractional differential equations, and dynamic systems. His doctoral research specifically focuses on linear and nonlinear fractional differential equations, employing semi-analytical methods for their solutions. He aims to explore these equations’ applications in real-world phenomena, such as epidemic modeling, fluid dynamics, and wave propagation. His work in fractional calculus offers new insights into the mathematical descriptions of complex systems, which are often difficult to model using traditional integer-order differential equations. Through his research, Mr. Meena is particularly interested in understanding the behavior of systems with memory and hereditary properties, common in biological and physical systems. In addition to his work on differential equations, he is exploring the application of the Residual Power Series (RPS) method and other numerical techniques, such as the Euler and Runge-Kutta methods, to obtain approximate solutions to these complex models. His interdisciplinary approach to mathematical modeling promises to contribute to both the advancement of mathematical theory and its practical applications in fields like epidemiology, physics, and engineering.

Research Skills

Mr. Rakesh Meena’s research skills are diverse, encompassing both theoretical and computational techniques. His proficiency in mathematical modeling, especially in the context of fractional differential equations, stands out as a major strength. He is well-versed in various semi-analytical methods, notably the Residual Power Series (RPS) and Homotopy Analysis Method, to solve complex differential equations. These techniques are especially useful in capturing the dynamics of systems governed by fractional order equations, which are prevalent in many natural and social systems. Mr. Meena also possesses strong numerical skills, applying methods like the Euler method, Runge-Kutta method, and finite difference methods for computational analysis. He is skilled in using computational tools, including MATLAB, Maple, Mathematica, and LaTeX, to model, analyze, and visualize mathematical problems. His ability to integrate both analytical and numerical methods enables him to approach research challenges from a comprehensive perspective. Moreover, his academic rigor and attention to detail contribute to his systematic approach to research, making his work both reliable and impactful.

📚 Publications

Conclusion 

Mr. Rakesh Meena is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award due to his excellent academic record, innovative research in fractional differential equations, and contribution to mathematical modeling. His expertise in semi-analytical and numerical methods provides significant value to his field. With a broader impact focus and increased public engagement, he has the potential to make transformative contributions to both academia and society. This will further cement his position as a leader in his field. 🌟