Shakeb Akhtar | Social Sciences Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr Shakeb Akhtar | Social Sciences Awards | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, Woxsen University, India

Shakeb Akhtar is a dedicated researcher and academic specializing in Banking and Finance. He earned his Ph.D. from Aligarh Muslim University in 2021, focusing on the performance evaluation of private and foreign banks in India. With a solid academic background, including multiple gold medals, Shakeb has made significant contributions to the fields of finance and sustainable development. He is passionate about integrating technology in finance and enhancing financial inclusivity. Shakeb actively publishes research papers and engages in collaborative projects, positioning himself as a prominent voice in contemporary finance discussions. His commitment to addressing critical issues in banking and finance, coupled with his innovative research, makes him a valuable asset in the academic community.

Profile

Strengths for the Award

  1. Robust Academic Background:
    • Shakeb has a Ph.D. in Commerce with a focus on Banking and Finance, demonstrating a solid foundation in his field.
    • His academic excellence is highlighted by multiple gold medals and top ranks in his postgraduate diploma and master’s program.
  2. Diverse Research Interests:
    • His research spans significant topics like Banking, Finance, Efficiency Management, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), indicating a well-rounded understanding of contemporary financial issues.
  3. Publication Record:
    • A considerable number of published papers in reputable journals, reflecting both the quality and impact of his research. His work has been recognized and cited in various academic platforms.
  4. Awards and Recognition:
    • Listed in the P-Rank for researchers, which emphasizes his standing in the academic community.
    • Recipient of fellowships aimed at minority students, showcasing his commitment to promoting inclusivity in education.
  5. Innovative Contributions:
    • His ongoing projects and white papers on emerging topics like FinTech and technology in education display forward-thinking and relevance to current trends in finance and technology.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Collaboration:
    • While he has an impressive publication record, increasing collaborative projects with international researchers could enhance the diversity and impact of his work.
  2. Public Engagement:
    • Engaging more with the public or industry through workshops or seminars could amplify his research impact beyond academic circles.
  3. Focus on Practical Applications:
    • Further emphasis on the practical implications of his research findings for banking practices and policy-making could enhance the relevance of his work in real-world contexts.
  4. Networking and Visibility:
    • Actively participating in more international conferences could increase his visibility and allow for networking with other leading researchers in his field.

 

Education 

Shakeb Akhtar holds a Ph.D. in Commerce from Aligarh Muslim University, India, completed in 2021, where he concentrated on Banking and Finance. His doctoral thesis examined the performance evaluation of select private and foreign banks in India under the supervision of Prof. Mohd. Mohsin Khan. Prior to this, he obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Islamic Banking and Finance (PGDIBF) in 2015, achieving the highest marks and ranking first in his program. In 2014, he completed his Master of Finance and Control (MFC) with top honors as well. His undergraduate degree is a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) obtained in 2012. He also excelled in his higher secondary education, scoring 83%, and completed his secondary education with a commendable 74.75%. This strong academic foundation has equipped Shakeb with the knowledge and skills to excel in research and academia.

Experience

Shakeb Akhtar has a diverse professional background, including summer internships that provided practical experience in the finance sector. He interned at Idafa Investments Pvt. Ltd., where he explored the Shariah-compliant approach to running an equity broking company. Additionally, he gained valuable insights into the commodity market during his internship at IndiaInfoline Limited. As a researcher, Shakeb has authored numerous papers published in esteemed journals, contributing to his field’s knowledge base. His involvement in ongoing projects focuses on examining calendar anomalies in the Indian stock market, demonstrating his commitment to advancing financial research. Shakeb is also engaged in collaborative works, such as a book on the adoption of FinTech, which underscores his dedication to integrating technology in finance. His academic and practical experiences have shaped him into a well-rounded researcher and advocate for innovative practices in the banking and finance sectors.

Awards and Honors

Shakeb Akhtar has received numerous accolades throughout his academic journey, reflecting his dedication and excellence in research. He was listed in P-Rank, ranking 403 among top researchers in January 2023, showcasing his impact in the academic community. Shakeb has been awarded the Maulana Azad National Fellowship for Minority Students (JRF and SRF) by the University Grants Commission, recognizing his commitment to promoting inclusivity in higher education. He has also received two University Gold Medals for achieving the highest percentage of marks in both his Post Graduate Diploma in Islamic Banking and Finance and his Master of Finance and Control, establishing his academic prowess. Furthermore, he was granted the Central Minority Scholarship from 2010 to 2014, further underscoring his exceptional performance. These awards highlight Shakeb’s commitment to excellence and his significant contributions to the fields of banking and finance.

Research Focus 

Shakeb Akhtar’s research interests are primarily centered on Banking and Finance, with a keen focus on Efficiency Management, Profitability Management, and sustainable practices aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. He is currently working on time series modeling and has authored white papers exploring the role of technology in modern education and the triumphs of small banks in the fintech space. His ongoing projects include examining calendar anomalies in the Indian stock market, demonstrating his engagement with contemporary financial issues. Shakeb’s publications cover diverse topics, including the performance drivers of Indian banks and the impact of digitalization on bank performance. His research aims to bridge theoretical insights with practical applications, ultimately contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the financial sector and advocating for sustainable practices within banking.

Publication Top Notes

  • 📈 Akhtar, S., “Performance drivers of Indian Banks: A Dynamic Panel Analysis using CAMELS framework vis-à-vis demonetization” (Under review).
  • 📊 Akhtar, S., “Gauging the Banks’ Profitability, Productivity and Efficiency in Emerging Economy: Insights from the Static Panel Analysis using CAMELS Framework” (Under review).
  • 📚 Jafar, S. H., Hemachandran, K., Akhtar, S., Khan, P.A., & Chaarani, H. (2024). “The Adoption of FinTech Using Technology for Better Security, Speed, and Customer Experience in Finance.”
  • 🌍 Khan, P.A., Johl, S.K., Akhtar, S. (2022). “Vinculum of sustainable development goal practices and firms’ financial performance: A moderation role of green innovation.”
  • 🌱 Khan, P.A., Johl, S.K., Akhtar, S. (2021). “Firm sustainable development goals and firm financial performance through the lens of green innovation practices and reporting: a proactive approach.”
  • 📊 Jan, A.A., Lai, F.W., Asif, M., Akhtar, S., Ullah, S. (2023). “Embedding sustainability into bank strategy: Implications for sustainable development goals reporting.”
  • 🎓 Khan, P.A., Johl, S.K., Akhtar, S., Asif, M., Salameh, A.A., Kanesan, T. (2022). “Open innovation of institutional investors and higher education system in creating open approach for SDG-4 quality education: a conceptual review.”
  • 📈 Akhtar, S., Alam, M., Ansari, M.S. (2022). “Measuring the performance of the Indian banking industry: Data envelopment window analysis approach.”
  • 💡 Akhtar, S., Alam, M., Khan, A., Shamshad, M. (2023). “Measuring technical efficiency of banks vis-à-vis demonetization: an empirical analysis of Indian banking sector using CAMELS framework.”
  • 📊 Azmi, S.N., Akhtar, S., Nadeem, M.R. (2020). “Impact of Digitalisation on Bank Performance: A Study of Indian Banks.”
  • 🔍 Akhtar, S., Khan, T., Khan, P.A. (2020). “EXAMINE THE KEY DRIVERS AFFECTING BOTTOM LINE: A PANEL ESTIMATION STUDY OF INDIAN COMMERCIAL BANK.”
  • 🔍 Akhtar, S., Alam, M., Khan, M.M. (2021). “YES bank fiasco: arrogance or negligence.”
  • 📊 Chaturvedi, K., Akhtar, S., Azhar, N., Shamshad, M. (2021). “Impact of corporate social responsibility on financial performance of selected banks in India: based on camel model.”
  • 🌍 Akhtar, S., Niazi, M.N.H., Khan, M.M. (2020). “Cascading Effect of COVID 19 on Indian Economy.”
  • 📊 Azmi, S.N., Akhtar, S. (2023). “Interactions of services export, financial development and growth: evidence from India.”

Conclusion

Shakeb Akhtar’s extensive academic qualifications, impactful research, and notable achievements position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to exploring critical areas in banking and finance, along with a clear commitment to sustainable practices, underscores his potential to influence both academic and practical spheres. By enhancing collaboration, public engagement, and visibility, he can further elevate his research contributions. Overall, he embodies the qualities of an exemplary researcher deserving of this recognition.

Lei Dong | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof Lei Dong | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Associate dean, Beijing Institute of Technology, China

Professor Lei Dong, M.D., Ph.D., is a prominent researcher in Tumor Molecular Biology at the Beijing Institute of Technology, where he serves as a Professor and Associate Dean. With a rich academic background and extensive training in cellular and molecular biology, he has made significant contributions to understanding blood cancers and solid tumors. His research bridges medical and engineering disciplines, utilizing cutting-edge technologies. Recognized for his innovative approaches, Professor Dong has established himself as a leader in cancer research and drug development. Beyond research, he is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of scientists and engaging in collaborative projects that integrate diverse scientific fields. His work is informed by a deep commitment to advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Academic Background: Professor Dong’s educational journey, culminating in a Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology and postdoctoral fellowships at prestigious institutions, showcases his strong foundation in biological sciences.
  2. Innovative Research Focus: His research on the molecular mechanisms of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) and solid tumors, particularly glioblastoma, addresses critical areas in cancer biology. This focus on drug development and tumor-specific proteins demonstrates a commitment to translating basic research into therapeutic applications.
  3. Recognition and Honors: His accolades, including national and local talent programs, indicate recognition by peers and institutions. Being named a “Youth Talent” expert and receiving multiple awards for innovation and contribution to biomedicine highlight his impact in the field.
  4. Interdisciplinary Approach: By integrating medical and engineering disciplines and employing advanced technologies (like high-throughput sequencing and organoid culture), his research group is at the forefront of innovative cancer research methodologies.
  5. Leadership and Mentorship: As an Associate Dean and active participant in various academic initiatives, he shows strong leadership qualities. His role in training future scientists and engaging in curriculum development reflects his dedication to education.
  6. Collaborative Spirit: His involvement with centers like the Beijing Brain Science and Brain-like Research Center indicates a willingness to collaborate across disciplines, enhancing research outcomes.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Publication Impact: While published in notable journals, aiming for higher impact factors and broader dissemination of findings could amplify the visibility and influence of his research.
  2. Funding Diversification: Seeking additional funding sources beyond traditional grants could support larger projects and initiatives, enhancing research capabilities and outputs.
  3. Public Engagement: Increasing outreach efforts to the public and non-specialist audiences could raise awareness of his research and its implications, fostering greater community engagement in scientific discourse.
  4. Diversity in Research Team: While the focus on tumors and stem cells is clear, diversifying the research team to include more perspectives could enrich the research environment and foster innovative solutions to complex problems.

Education

Professor Lei Dong obtained his M.D. and B.S. in Clinical Medicine from Anhui Medical University, China (2000-2005). He then earned an M.S. in Immunology from the same institution (2005-2008), followed by a Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Arkansas, USA (2008-2012). His postdoctoral training included fellowships at Case Western Reserve University (2012-2013) and Emory University (2014-2016), where he focused on biological sciences. Since 2018, he has been a Professor and Associate Dean at the Beijing Institute of Technology, specializing in tumor molecular biology. His educational path has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of medical and biological sciences, forming a solid foundation for his research and teaching endeavors.

Experience

Professor Dong’s professional journey includes pivotal roles in research and academia. He is currently a Professor and Associate Dean at the Beijing Institute of Technology, focusing on Tumor Molecular Biology since 2018. Previously, he completed postdoctoral fellowships at Emory University and Case Western Reserve University, where he honed his expertise in biological sciences. During his tenure at the University of Arkansas, he earned his Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology, laying the groundwork for his subsequent research endeavors. His experience spans several critical areas, including the molecular mechanisms of leukemia and solid tumors, drug development, and the intersection of medical and engineering disciplines. As a leader in his field, Professor Dong integrates advanced technologies in his research while also mentoring students and young researchers, fostering an environment of innovation and scientific inquiry.

Awards and Honors

Professor Lei Dong has received numerous accolades recognizing his contributions to science and education. In 2018, he was honored as a “Youth Talent” expert at the national level. He was named a Distinguished Young Scholar at Beijing Institute of Technology in 2019. His innovative work has earned him the Leading Talent Award in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Suzhou High-tech Zone in 2022, as well as the Third Prize for Biomedical Innovation at the Beijing Medical Technology Achievement Transformation event in 2023. Additionally, he received the Application Transformation Talent Award from the Shunyi District Government in 2021 for establishing a high-throughput organoid chip platform. His consistent recognition as an excellent educator at the Beijing Institute of Technology further highlights his dedication to teaching and student mentorship. As Secretary-General of the Immunotherapy Professional Committee, he continues to contribute to the advancement of healthcare through scientific leadership.

Research Focus

Professor Lei Dong’s research primarily investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) and the development of solid tumors such as glioblastoma (GBM). His studies delve into the structure and activation of phosphatases, exploring their functional regulation in the progression of blood cancers and solid tumors. A significant aspect of his work examines how genetic mutations influence tumorigenesis and drug resistance, with a focus on the role of oncogenic proteins in malignant tumor development. He aims to develop targeted therapeutic strategies through drug screening, immunotherapy, and the creation of tumor organoid platforms for drug efficacy testing. By integrating cutting-edge technologies, including high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics, his research group analyzes the intricate molecular networks that govern cell fate and tumor evolution. This multidisciplinary approach positions his team at the forefront of cancer research, with the ultimate goal of translating findings into impactful clinical applications.

Publication Top Notes

  • “Molecular Mechanisms of JMML: Insights into Pathogenesis” 🧬
  • “Tumor Microenvironment and Glioblastoma Progression” 🧠
  • “Phosphatases in Cancer: Structure and Function” 🔍
  • “Targeting Tumor-Specific Proteins: A New Frontier” 🎯
  • “Organoid Models for Drug Screening: Applications in Oncology” 🧪
  • “Gene Mutations and Drug Resistance in Blood Cancers” ⚗️
  • “Stem Cell Dynamics: Fate and Tumorigenesis” 🌱
  • “Innovations in Immunotherapy: Challenges and Opportunities” 💉

Conclusion

Professor Lei Dong’s exceptional academic background, innovative research contributions, and strong recognition in the field of tumor biology make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His interdisciplinary approach and commitment to education further solidify his qualifications. Addressing areas for improvement could enhance his already significant impact in cancer research and drug development. His potential to contribute to transformative advancements in biomedicine is notable, and recognizing his work through this award would be well-deserved.