Committee Members

Dr. Meriem El Bouhali is a distinguished scholar in the field of digital marketing and business-to-business (B2B) research. Her academic journey reflects a consistent trajectory of excellence and depth in management sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in Management Sciences (Digital Marketing) from Université Paris 2 Panthéon-Assas, earned in December 2020. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Convertir les visiteurs du site web en clients : comment la qualité du site web de fournisseur influence la confiance et l’intention de sélection dans un contexte de sourcing ?”, was awarded with “Mention très honorable avec les félicitations à l’unanimité”, a prestigious distinction reflecting both the academic quality and practical relevance of her research. Her thesis received the University Thesis Prize of Paris 2, emphasizing its contribution to the field.

Her academic foundations are equally solid. Dr. El Bouhali completed a Master 2 in Management Sciences (Organizational Management) at Université Paris 2 Panthéon-Assas in 2013 and a Master 1 in Economics and Management at Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne in 2012. She also completed the EDEN Doctoral Seminar on Advances in B2B Marketing at the Turku School of Economics in Finland in 2019, further reinforcing her international research exposure.

Dr. Benjamin Ilo is a dedicated researcher and educator currently in the final year of their Ph.D. and serving as a Visiting Lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom. With a robust academic foundation and over 15 years of cumulative experience in research, teaching, and industry, he has developed a multidisciplinary expertise spanning combustion engines, industrial control systems, automation, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Throughout his career, Dr. Benjamin Ilo has demonstrated a deep commitment to bridging the gap between traditional engineering disciplines and emerging digital technologies. His research interests lie at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and advanced engineering systems. The central focus of his doctoral research is on leveraging AI and ML techniques to develop innovative, data-driven solutions to complex engineering problems — enhancing system performance, reliability, and sustainability.

Dr. Benjamin Ilo has published research in reputed international journals and has several additional papers currently under peer review. He actively contributes to knowledge dissemination through lectures, workshops, and collaborative projects, promoting the integration of intelligent technologies into real-world industrial and academic applications.

In addition to academic research, he has substantial professional experience managing and executing technical projects involving combustion diagnostics, process control, embedded systems, and IoT-based automation. This rare combination of practical engineering insight and advanced computational expertise enables him to develop holistic solutions that align with modern industry demands.

As an educator, Dr. Benjamin Ilo is passionate about inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators. He consistently strive to create engaging learning experiences that blend theoretical understanding with practical implementation, ensuring that students are well-prepared to address the technological challenges of the future.

Looking ahead, Dr. Benjamin Ilo aims to continue contributing to cutting-edge interdisciplinary research, fostering collaboration between academia and industry to advance the intelligent automation and optimization of engineering systems through AI-driven approaches.

Dr. Akshay Paranjape is a dedicated researcher and academic professional currently affiliated with RWTH Aachen University, one of Germany’s most prestigious institutions known for its excellence in science and engineering. A passionate scholar in his field, Dr. Paranjape’s research interests lie at the intersection of advanced computational technologies, data-driven innovation, and applied artificial intelligence. His work emphasizes the integration of intelligent systems into real-world applications, aiming to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial implementation.

Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Paranjape has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing technological frontiers through innovative thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration. His research contributions reflect a balance between theoretical understanding and practical relevance, addressing emerging challenges in artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics.

At RWTH Aachen University, Dr. Paranjape has actively engaged in both research and academic activities, contributing to ongoing projects and mentoring students in developing innovative solutions. His analytical approach and problem-solving mindset have made him a valuable contributor to collaborative research environments.

Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Paranjape is deeply interested in global technological development and cross-cultural collaboration. With his growing international network, he continues to participate in conferences, seminars, and workshops that foster dialogue among researchers, practitioners, and innovators worldwide.

Originally from India and currently based in Germany, Dr. Paranjape brings a multicultural perspective to his work, combining precision, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose. Looking ahead, he aims to expand his research collaborations, publish impactful studies, and contribute to shaping the next generation of intelligent technologies.

Dr. Ali Alfayly is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computing at the College of Basic Education, Kuwait. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and specializes in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Cybersecurity. His research focuses on explainable AI, autonomous UAV systems, and the ethical and practical applications of AI in education, healthcare, and smart systems. Dr. Alfayly has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed publications, including recent work on AI-driven software fault detection and UAV coordination using deep reinforcement learning. Beyond academia, he serves as a member of the IEEE Region 8 Young Professionals Committee and actively contributes to international conferences and professional development initiatives. His work bridges research, education, and industry collaboration, with a strong emphasis on advancing AI for societal benefit.

Dr. Fei Gao is a highly respected Professor of Instructional Design and Technology at Bowling Green State University (BGSU), Ohio, USA, where she has established herself as a prominent scholar and educator in the field of digital learning and instructional design. With a strong academic background and years of teaching, research, and mentoring experience, Dr. Gao has made significant contributions to shaping the ways in which technology can be harnessed to support effective teaching and learning.

Her research focus lies in the area of online and technology-enhanced learning, with a particular emphasis on cultivating reflective, engaged, and motivated learners. She is deeply committed to investigating how instructional strategies and design frameworks can be used to create meaningful online learning experiences. Her work highlights the importance of not only improving learners’ cognitive growth, but also supporting their affective and motivational dimensions, ensuring that students are both challenged and inspired throughout their educational journeys.

Dr. Gao has devoted much of her career to the design and development of online learning environments, employing both innovative instructional methods and advanced educational technologies. Her projects often focus on creating learning environments that encourage critical reflection, self-regulation, and active participation, thereby equipping students with the skills and mindset needed for lifelong learning in a digital age.

Her research contributions have been widely recognized in the academic community, with publications appearing in some of the most prestigious and peer-reviewed journals in the field, including The Internet and Higher Education, British Journal of Educational Technology, and Computers and Education. These publications demonstrate both the rigor and practical relevance of her scholarship, influencing educators, instructional designers, and researchers across the globe.

Beyond her research, Dr. Gao is also a dedicated educator and mentor. At Bowling Green State University, she works closely with undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students, guiding them through coursework, research, and professional development in instructional design and educational technology. Many of her students have gone on to successful careers in academia, industry, and educational institutions, reflecting her lasting impact as a mentor.

In addition to her teaching and research, Dr. Gao is actively engaged in collaborative projects and international initiatives, partnering with scholars and institutions worldwide to advance the field of online education. Her expertise is regularly sought after in academic conferences, workshops, and professional associations, where she shares her insights on e-learning design, reflective practices, and learner motivation.

Through her multifaceted contributions—spanning research, teaching, mentorship, and service—Dr. Fei Gao has emerged as a thought leader in instructional design and technology. Her work continues to influence the evolution of online learning, providing valuable frameworks for educators and researchers striving to create innovative, inclusive, and impactful digital learning experiences.

Professor Dr. Bo Nørregaard Jørgensen is the founder and head of the Center for Energy Informatics at the University of Southern Denmark, an interdisciplinary research centre established in 2013 to advance the digital transformation of the green energy transition. Under his leadership, the centre has grown to encompass over 30 researchers across computer science, applied physics, electrical engineering, and social sciences, working at the intersection of digital technologies and energy systems.

A pioneer in the field, Professor Jørgensen is co-founder and Editor-in-Chief of the Energy Informatics journal (Springer Open) and co-founder of the Energy Informatics Academy and its associated international conference series. His research focuses on software technologies, multi-agent systems, and AI-driven solutions for the optimization and coordination of distributed energy systems, including renewable energy integration, grid flexibility, and intelligent demand-side management.

Over the past 15 years, he has led or co-led major research and innovation initiatives totalling more than DKK 500 million in funding, collaborating extensively with industry, government agencies, and international partners. He is the author of over 300 scientific publications and holds three US patents in software technologies. Professor Jørgensen is a member of the Danish Academy of Technical Sciences and frequently serves as an expert reviewer for national and international funding bodies.

He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Southern Denmark, and both M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees in Computer System Engineering from Odense University.

Dr. Mariana Durcheva earned her Ph.D. from the Technical University of Sofia (TUS), Bulgaria, where she also held the position of Associate Professor in the Faculty of Applied Mathematics and Informatics. With a strong academic background in mathematics and computer science, her teaching and research span over two decades. Since 2019, she has been a lecturer at the Sami Shamoon College of Engineering in Israel. Dr. Durcheva’s primary research interests lie in public-key cryptography, semirings, fuzzy graphs, and the application of artificial intelligence in education. Her work reflects a blend of theoretical mathematics and practical computational solutions, particularly in secure communication and modern educational technologies. She has authored over 50 research papers in reputed peer-reviewed journals and has actively participated in more than 40 international conferences around the globe. Her contributions are recognized in both the academic and research communities for their rigor and relevance. Dr. Durcheva also contributes to scholarly publishing and currently serves as a Guest Editor for the Special Issue titled “Mathematics for Algebraic Coding Theory and Cryptography” in the journal Mathematics. Her commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research, particularly in cryptography and AI, continues to inspire students and colleagues alike. She has been instrumental in fostering research collaboration across institutions and remains dedicated to both academic excellence and innovation. Through her international experience, she brings a global perspective to her teaching and mentorship. Dr. Durcheva is also involved in curriculum development, focusing on integrating AI tools in mathematical education. Her academic influence spans Bulgaria, Israel, and the broader research community. Her work not only bridges theory and application but also empowers the next generation of scientists. She is a respected member of several professional associations and continues to make significant contributions to mathematics and information security.

Dr. Andrej F. Plesničar is a seasoned medical doctor with extensive experience in clinical and experimental oncology, public health, and social medicine. His early career was rooted in cancer research and direct patient care, where he contributed to both the advancement of oncological science and the compassionate treatment of individuals facing complex diagnoses. During this time, he participated in various clinical studies and experimental treatments, deepening his understanding of the interplay between research and real-world healthcare outcomes.

Over time, Dr. Plesničar’s professional interests evolved toward the broader, systemic dimensions of healthcare. Recognizing the critical role of policy, governance, and resource allocation in shaping patient access and quality of care, he shifted his focus to the structural and economic frameworks underpinning health systems. His work is now particularly centered on issues of fairness, efficiency, and sustainability in healthcare financing — with a special emphasis on health insurance payment systems.

Currently, Dr. Plesničar serves as an advisor at the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia, where he plays a key role in the formulation and implementation of evidence-based, transparent, and equitable healthcare payment models. His contributions support the development of financing practices that aim not only to ensure the sustainability of healthcare systems but also to promote just and accessible care for all citizens.

In his advisory role, he brings together clinical insight, public health expertise, and a strong commitment to policy innovation, helping bridge the gap between healthcare delivery and systemic reform. Dr. Plesničar remains dedicated to fostering a healthcare environment where financial mechanisms support high-quality, patient-centered care while maintaining economic responsibility.

Dr. Yan Gao is a distinguished architect and educator known for his pioneering work in integrating data-driven design research with architectural practice to balance measurable and intangible values for the benefit of both stakeholders and society. He is the creator of the Deep Design for Empathetic Architecture theory, rooted in Chinese intellectual traditions and focused on the dynamic evolution of space and form. Dr. Gao has received numerous international design awards and is regarded as a leading academic figure in China advancing the use of synthetic computation in architectural research and practice. His research explores computational applications across architecture, urbanism, landscape, and interior design, especially in complex real-world contexts. His notable curatorial contributions include the Contemporary Chinese Architecture Exhibition (London, 2012), the Synergy & Symbiosis Exhibition for the China Pavilion at the Venice Biennale (2014), and Unplugged at the Pingshan Exhibition under the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Bi-City Biennale of Architecture & Urbanism (2021). He is a Founding Council Member of the Digital Architecture Design Association in China and has led the AA Beijing Visiting School since 2010. His research interests include applied computational design, AI-integrated design, BIM, DfMA, mass customization, design thinking, and integrated smart design and making. Dr. Gao holds a Ph.D. from RMIT University (2024), an M.Arch from the AA School (2005), and a B.Arch from Tsinghua University (2002). He is also a Chartered Member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and holds Part 3 ARB registration in the UK.

Dr. Olarik Surinta is an accomplished researcher and academic specializing in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision. He received his Master of Science in Information Technology from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology North Bangkok, Thailand in 2003, and went on to pursue advanced research training abroad. In 2016, he earned his Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Groningen, Netherlands, where he gained significant expertise in intelligent systems, deep learning, and applied computational methods.

Currently, Dr. Surinta serves as a faculty member in the Department of Information Technology, Faculty of Informatics at Mahasarakham University, Thailand. Alongside his teaching and mentoring responsibilities, he is an active researcher and a member of the Multi-agent Intelligent Simulation Laboratory (MISL) Research Unit, where he collaborates with colleagues on advancing innovative applications of AI and computational intelligence.

His primary research interests span a wide range of cutting-edge areas in artificial intelligence and data science, including historical document analysis and recognition, deep learning, machine learning, computer vision, multimodal recognition, image and video classification, and image captioning. Dr. Surinta has made valuable contributions to the field through his publications and collaborative projects, particularly in applying advanced computational models to real-world challenges such as text and image recognition.

Throughout his career, Dr. Surinta has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. His work bridges theoretical research and practical applications, ensuring that his findings contribute not only to scientific advancements but also to technological solutions that address pressing problems in society. In addition to research, he is deeply engaged in higher education, guiding undergraduate and graduate students in developing the knowledge and skills required to thrive in the fast-growing domains of artificial intelligence and computer science.

By integrating expertise from computer vision, AI, and multimodal data processing, Dr. Surinta continues to expand the boundaries of research in intelligent systems. His contributions are well-regarded in both academic and professional circles, positioning him as a key figure in Thailand’s growing artificial intelligence research community.

Dr. Liucheng Guo, SMIEEE, FIET, FBCS, FRSA is a noted researcher, innovator, and entrepreneur specializing in the convergence of artificial intelligence, embedded systems, hardware-software co-design, and sustainable human-machine interfaces. After completing his Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence at Imperial College London, and further training in entrepreneurship (Stanford Business School), Dr. Guo co-founded Tangi0 (TG0) where he serves as Chief Technology Officer. In his research work, Dr. Guo focuses on efficient, sustainable and intelligent sensing systems that blend hardware and software. His interests include embedded AI, high-performance computing, and developing smart, adaptive user interfaces for sectors such as IoT, automotive, healthcare, and extended / virtual reality (XR) experiences.  Under his leadership, TG0 has developed novel technologies in touch, gesture, pressure and proximity sensing, often using flexible materials or surfaces with embedded intelligence. These innovations are designed to reduce reliance on traditional mechanical controls, improving both the ergonomic and environmental footprint of user interface systems.

Dr. Guo holds several distinguished professional titles: Senior Member of IEEE, Fellow of IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology), Fellow of the British Computer Society (BCS), and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA). He is also an RAEng (Royal Academy of Engineering) Industrial Fellow and serves as Visiting Senior Research Fellow at King’s College London. He has been successful in securing multiple research grants and innovation funding, including from Innovate UK, the European Innovation Council, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and other bodies. His work combines academic publication, invention/patenting, and product/market development through TG0.  TG0, under Dr. Guo’s technical leadership, has achieved recognition in the UK and beyond for its growth and innovation. Their products and sensing platforms are used or explored in automotive dashboards, VR/AR controllers, smart devices, and medical technology applications. In addition to his industry role, Dr. Guo is active in academic and public engagement. He contributes as a STEM ambassador, mentors up-and-coming technologists, and holds honorary/visiting academic positions.

Dr. Marina Baroni is an Italian psychologist specializing in Clinical Physiopathology. She holds the title of Ph.D. in Clinical Physiopathology from the University of Pisa. Currently, she works as a Research Fellow at the University of Florence. Her professional interests lie at the intersection of psychological science, psychophysiology, and social epidemiology.

Dr. Baroni has been deeply involved in research exploring psychophysiological mechanisms, the interplay of psychological and physiological processes in health, and the societal factors that influence mental well-being. Over the years, she has developed strong expertise in interdisciplinary research, collaborating with teams from clinical, experimental, public health, and community psychology backgrounds. This has included work on risk behaviors, addictions, neuromodulation techniques (such as tDCS, TMS, and DBS) in overcoming tobacco use, psychoactive substances, validation of psychological instruments (for example, the Adult Executive Functioning Inventory/ADEXI in Italian populations), studies on adolescents’ behavior during COVID-19 lockdowns, and analyses of gaming, gambling, or risk-taking behaviors in youth.

As a researcher with both theoretical and applied focus, Dr. Baroni’s work contributes to understanding how psychological interventions, psychophysiological assessment, public health measures, and environmental/societal factors can be integrated to support mental health. In her current role in Florence, she continues to bridge clinical practice and research, mentoring students and working on projects that aim to translate psychophysiological insights into improved mental health outcomes.

Dr. Somayah Albaradei, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Bioinformatics at the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology (FCIT), King Abdulaziz University (KAU), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. She specializes in the intersection of computational intelligence and biological data analysis, with a particular focus on leveraging artificial intelligence techniques to address complex challenges in genomics, healthcare, and life sciences. At KAU, Dr. Albaradei plays an active role in teaching and supervising students in computer science, artificial intelligence, and bioinformatics, thereby contributing to academic development and fostering innovative research. Based at FCIT, Building 61, Second Floor, Room 131, she combines her academic responsibilities with research that explores machine learning, deep learning applications in bioinformatics, data-driven healthcare solutions, and computational biology. Her work reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge in AI-driven biomedical research while simultaneously mentoring and inspiring the next generation of scholars in the rapidly evolving fields of artificial intelligence and bioinformatics.

Dr. Irene Chew is an accomplished researcher and academic with a strong background in process systems engineering and resource optimization. She earned her Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degree from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, where she laid the foundation for her career in engineering research and education. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree at the University of Nottingham, Malaysia, with her doctoral research focusing on process integration for resource conservation. Her work during this period emphasized sustainable engineering approaches and the efficient use of energy and resources within industrial processes.

Over the years, Dr. Irene has developed extensive expertise in the field of mathematical modelling and optimization. She has mastered advanced tools such as GAMS (General Algebraic Modeling System) and LINGO, which she uses to design and implement solutions for complex process system optimization problems. Through these tools, she has successfully conducted research that bridges the gap between theoretical modelling and practical applications in engineering industries.

In addition to her strong background in process integration and optimization, Dr. Irene has recently expanded her research into the application of artificial intelligence in engineering systems. Her most recent work focuses on applying artificial neural networks (ANNs) for data-driven process optimization, enabling more accurate, efficient, and adaptive solutions for complex engineering challenges. This innovative research combines traditional process optimization techniques with modern computational intelligence, making her contributions highly relevant to the rapidly evolving field of smart manufacturing and sustainable engineering.

Dr. Irene is also deeply committed to academic mentorship and research supervision. She is currently supervising two doctoral (PhD) students and one master’s student, guiding their research projects in areas closely aligned with her expertise. These projects are supported by prestigious funding sources, including the Monash University Scholarship and grants from the Ministry of Higher Education, which reflects the importance and impact of her work in advancing engineering research.

Through her academic career, Dr. Irene has demonstrated a passion for bridging research, innovation, and real-world application. Her contributions not only advance the scientific understanding of process systems and optimization but also provide practical pathways for industries to achieve greater sustainability and efficiency. With her continuous efforts in integrating advanced mathematical modelling, optimization techniques, and artificial intelligence, Dr. Irene stands at the forefront of modern engineering research, inspiring the next generation of engineers and researchers.

Prof. Patrick Siarry, born on May 28, 1952, in Pertuis, has devoted his distinguished academic career to advancing research in the relatively new field of “metaheuristic” optimization, a domain he has been actively engaged in since 1982. Metaheuristic techniques, such as simulated annealing, are particularly well-suited for addressing complex “hard optimization” problems because of their inherent ability to avoid being trapped in sub-optimal solutions. His research is inherently multidisciplinary, drawing inspiration and methodologies from diverse fields such as physics, biology, and ethology. Over the years, Prof. Siarry has significantly contributed to a wide range of areas, often centered around key themes including modeling, system identification, rule-based learning in artificial intelligence, and control systems. His scholarly endeavors also extend to applied domains such as nondestructive testing, maintenance strategies, and innovations in biological and medical engineering. Through his pioneering contributions, Prof. Siarry has played an influential role in bridging theoretical advances with practical applications, thereby shaping the landscape of optimization research and its interdisciplinary impact.

Dr. Amir Rizaan bin Abdul Rahiman is a Senior Lecturer (Pensyarah Kanan) in the Department of Communication Technology and Networking, Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology (FSKTM), at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia. He completed his Diploma in Computer Science and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UPM, followed by a Master of Science degree from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), and earned his Ph.D. from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).  Dr. Amir Rizaan’s research interests are in real-time software engineering, video storage servers, flash-based storage systems, and networked systems. He is particularly focused on performance, storage optimization, and efficient data handling – for example, through minimizing cleaning costs in flash-based storage subsystems, or investigating task offloading in distributed IoT–Fog–Cloud environments.

Some of his recent publications include works such as “Investigation into the Effect of Data Reduction in Offloadable Task for Distributed IoT-Fog-Cloud Computing” and “Minimizing the Cleaning Cost in Flash Based Storage Sub-Systems by Proliferating the Valid Data Copying Process. He is also involved in supervising students, contributing to curriculum and academic development in UPM’s FSKTM. He helps bridge theoretical research with practical applications in storage technology, networking, and real-time systems. Given his work and roles, Dr. Amir Rizaan is recognized for his contributions to Malaysian academia in the fields of computer science and information technology, particularly in areas related to storage systems and networked environments.

Shing-Tai Pan was born in Pingtung, Taiwan, on November 4, 1966. He received his Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, in 1992. He went on to pursue his doctoral studies and earned a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, in 1996. In 2006, he joined the Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering at the National University of Kaohsiung, where he currently serves as a full Professor. Throughout his academic career, Professor Pan has contributed significantly to both research and education in the fields of engineering and computer science. He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Taiwanese Association for Artificial Intelligence (TAAI), the Chinese Automatic Control Society (CACS), and The Association for Computational Linguistics and Chinese Language Processing (ACLCLP). His research spans multiple areas within artificial intelligence and signal processing. His primary interests include biomedical signal processing, digital signal processing, and speech recognition. He also explores the development and application of evolutionary computation techniques. Furthermore, his work involves the integration of artificial intelligence into real-world applications and the design of intelligent control systems. Professor Pan has published extensively in academic journals and conference proceedings, and his work has contributed to the advancement of AI technologies in healthcare and engineering. His interdisciplinary approach enables him to bridge theoretical research with practical implementation. He has also served as a reviewer and committee member for numerous international conferences and journals. In addition to his research, Professor Pan is dedicated to mentoring students and fostering academic excellence. His contributions continue to impact both the academic community and the development of intelligent technologies in Taiwan and beyond.

Dr. Matteo De Marchi is an accomplished researcher and academic in the field of manufacturing systems, with a strong focus on the integration of cutting-edge technologies in industrial applications. He earned his Ph.D. with Honours in 2024 from the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano (Italy), where his doctoral thesis, “Reference Architecture for Digital Twin Modelling and Remote Control of Cyber-Physical Production Systems”, made a significant contribution to advancing research in the area of digital manufacturing and smart industry solutions.

Following the completion of his Ph.D., Dr. De Marchi was appointed Assistant Professor for Manufacturing Systems at the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, where he continues to combine research, teaching, and industry collaboration. His work focuses on smart production, Industry 4.0 and 5.0, Artificial Intelligence applications in production, and Digital Twin technologies. Through these research areas, he has been working to develop innovative approaches that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness in modern manufacturing systems.

Dr. De Marchi has built a reputation for bridging the gap between academia and industry, applying theoretical models to practical solutions that can be adopted by organizations aiming to transition toward intelligent and connected manufacturing environments. His research on Digital Twin applications has particularly contributed to new methodologies for real-time monitoring, control, and optimization of industrial processes.

In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. De Marchi plays an active role in professional and scientific communities. He is a recognized member of the National Scientific Committee of WorldSkills Italy, contributing to the advancement of skill development and excellence in the manufacturing sector at a national level. Furthermore, he is an active member of AITEM (Italian Association for Manufacturing Technologies), where he collaborates with peers and industry leaders to shape the future of manufacturing technologies in Italy and beyond.

Through his dedication to education, innovation, and applied research, Dr. De Marchi is committed to preparing the next generation of engineers and researchers while also contributing to the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry. His work continues to have an important impact both academically and industrially, reinforcing his role as an emerging leader in the fields of Industry 4.0/5.0, smart production, and Artificial Intelligence for manufacturing systems.

Raoudha Ben Djemaa is an esteemed Associate Professor at the Higher Institute of Computer Science and Communication Technologies (ISITCOM), University of Sousse, Tunisia. With over two decades of academic experience, she has made significant contributions to research and education in the field of computer science.

She earned her Master’s degree in Information Systems and New Technologies from Sfax University, Tunisia, in 2002, and completed her Ph.D. in Informatics at the same institution in 2009. She is also an active member of the MIRACL Laboratory (Multimedia, Information Systems and Advanced Computing) at Sfax University.

Her research spans a wide range of areas, including Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud Computing, Blockchain, Web Technologies, Semantic Web, Software Engineering, Distributed Systems, Context-Aware Computing, and Intelligent Transportation Systems. She has authored several publications in these fields, reflecting her strong commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation.

In addition to her research, Dr. Ben Djemaa is deeply passionate about teaching and mentoring, and has played a key role in guiding students and young researchers throughout her career. Her dedication to both academic excellence and the development of emerging technologies has established her as a respected figure in the Tunisian and international computer science community.

Dr. Alejandro Gaston Figueroa holds a Ph.D. in Computational Linguistics and a Master’s degree in Language Technologies and Computer Science. With a strong academic background and a passion for human-computer interaction, Dr. Figueroa focuses on exploring, analyzing, and mining multimodal environments—particularly text and image data. Their research aims to uncover deeper insights into how machines can interpret, understand, and engage with humans more naturally and effectively. Throughout their career, they have demonstrated a strong ability to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world application.

Dr. Figueroa has led multiple interdisciplinary research projects, collaborating with both academic institutions and industry partners. These projects have often addressed complex challenges in natural language processing, computer vision, and AI-based human interaction. Their experience spans various roles, including project leadership, technical design, and implementation. They are especially committed to research that enhances accessibility, understanding, and communication through technology.

In addition to research, Dr. Alejandro Gaston Figueroa is an experienced academic mentor. They have supervised numerous undergraduate and master’s theses, fostering the next generation of researchers and developers. Their mentorship emphasizes critical thinking, innovation, and real-world impact. Currently, Dr. Alejandro Gaston Figueroa serves as an Associate Research Professor at the Universidad Tecnológica Metropolitana (UTEM), where they continue to advance knowledge in computational linguistics and multimodal AI systems. Their work contributes to academic excellence, industry collaboration, and the development of intelligent technologies that resonate with human needs.

Miin-Shen Yang received the B.S. degree in mathematics from Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, in 1977, the M.S. degree in applied mathematics from National Chiao-Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, in 1980, and the Ph.D. degree in statistics from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA, in 1989. In 1989, he joined the faculty of the Department of Mathematics, Chung Yuan Christian University (CYCU), as an Associate Professor, where he has been a Professor, since 1994. From 1997 to 1998, he was a Visiting Professor with the Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, USA. Since 2012, he has been a Distinguished Professor, and now a life Distinguished Professor of the Department of Applied Mathematics, CYCU. He was the Chairperson of the Department of Applied Mathematics, the Director of Chaplain’s Office, and the Dean of the College of Science, CYCU. His research interests include applications of statistics, fuzzy clustering, soft computing, pattern recognition, and machine learning. He was an Associate Editor of the IEEE Transactions on Fuzzy Systems from 2005 to 2011, and is an Editorial Board Member of Computer Science and Engineering section in the journal Electronics (MDPI). According to Stanford University’s Top 2% Scientists, he is among top 2% scientists as career impact and also single year impact of 2022 in Artificial Intelligence & Image Processing. He is also listed in 2022 as ScholarGPS global top 0.5% scholar.

Prof. Andrzej Cichocki is a distinguished Polish computer scientist and electrical engineer. He serves as a professor at the Systems Research Institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw and at Nicolaus Copernicus University (UMK) in Toruń, Poland. He also holds visiting professorships at several esteemed institutions, including RIKEN AIP and the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology in Japan. Prof. Cichocki is recognized among the world’s top 1% most-cited researchers, as listed by Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers from 2021 to 2023, and is regarded as one of the leading figures in electrical and electronic engineering.

His research contributions are highly regarded in the fields of signal processing and machine learning, particularly in blind signal separation (BSS), Independent Component Analysis (ICA), Non-negative Matrix Factorization (NMF), tensor decompositions, deep multilayer factorizations, tensor networks for big data and machine learning, and brain–computer interfaces. He is the author of several academic monographs and has published over 800 peer-reviewed scientific articles.

Prof. Cichocki received his M.Sc. (with honors), Ph.D., and D.Sc. (habilitation) degrees in electrical engineering and computer science from the Warsaw University of Technology. He was awarded the title of full Professor in 1995. From 1984 to 1989, he was an Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellow and DFG visiting scholar at the University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany, where he collaborated closely with Professor Rolf Unbehauen.

Between 1996 and 2018, he was based at the RIKEN Brain Science Institute in Japan, where he led several research laboratories, including the Open Information Systems Lab, Artificial Brain Systems Lab, and the Laboratory for Advanced Brain Signal Processing. From 2018 to 2022, he held distinguished visiting professorships at various universities, including Hangzhou Dianzi University in China and Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology.

Amanul Islam is a Graduate Research Assistant and PhD student in Computer Science at the
University of Colorado Colorado Springs, USA. He holds a Master by Research in Computer
Science from the University of Malaya, Malaysia, and a BSc in Information and Communication
Technology from The Millennium University, Bangladesh.
Islam’s research focuses on cybersecurity, anomaly detection in 5G/6G networks, anonymous
networking in cryptocurrency, and the application of machine learning techniques in secure
systems. His work has been published in leading journals and presented at international
conferences such as IEEE CCNC and SVCC. He has also served as a lecturer, research
assistant, and software engineer, with more than a decade of experience in academia and
applied research.
In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Islam has authored multiple books and serves as
a peer reviewer for reputed journals including Security Journal (Springer), Computers & Security
(Elsevier), and Neurocomputing. He is passionate about advancing AI-driven cybersecurity and
smart systems research.

Prof. Dr. Mohamed El‑Tanani is the Vice President for Research & Postgraduate Studies at Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU), UAE. He also holds the distinguished Anniversary Chair in Molecular Pathology and serves as Deputy Director of the Institute of Cancer Therapeutics at the University of Bradford, UK. He earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Liverpool in 1997, followed by five years of postdoctoral research focused on the molecular biology of breast cancer and metastasis. In 2002, he began his academic career at Queen’s University Belfast as a Lecturer and has since held senior roles at both Bradford and RAKMHSU.

Prof. El‑Tanani’s research is dedicated to understanding tumor progression and metastasis, with a particular focus on the roles of osteopontin (OPN) and Ran GTPase in cancer dissemination. His work aims to track metastatic spread, uncover molecular mechanisms, and develop reliable biomarkers for disease prognosis. With an impressive academic output, he has authored more than 262 journal articles, presented over 400 conference papers, and holds 30 patents. He also serves on the editorial boards of several top-tier cancer journals and is a frequent peer reviewer.

In addition to his academic achievements, Prof. El‑Tanani is a sought-after consultant for major pharmaceutical and technology companies, including Intel and Applied Materials. He has also held positions on the boards of various industry alliances. Internationally recognized for his contributions, he is often invited to speak at global symposia and is acknowledged as one of Jordan’s leading researchers in the natural sciences. Through his translational research, Prof. El‑Tanani continues to bridge academia and practical application, advancing innovations in cancer diagnosis and therapy.

Dr. Hong Shen is a Professor of Information Technology at the School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University (CQU), where he joined in November 2023. His primary research interests lie in parallel and distributed computing, network optimization, privacy and security, data mining, and machine learning.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Dr. Hong Shen has secured more than AUD 20 million in research funding and has led eight nationally competitive grant-funded projects, alongside numerous other collaborative initiatives in Australia, Japan, and China. He has authored over 500 research publications, including more than 200 articles in leading IEEE/ACM Transactions and other high-impact international journals.

Dr. Hong Shen has earned a strong scholarly reputation with more than 7,100 citations, an h-index exceeding 40, and an i10-index over 180, reflecting his substantial contributions to core areas in systems and algorithmic research, particularly in parallel and distributed computing.

Dr.Syed Arman Rabbani carries more than 15 years of teaching and research experience in Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology. He is a recipient of several awards and recognitions such as the Young Teacher Award and the Young Scientist Award for contributions in the field of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology. He has published more than 75 research papers in high impact peer-reviewed journals, and has experience in supervising PhD, postgraduate and undergraduate students. He is actively involved in collaborative research projects with national and international universities, and serves as academic editor and reviewer for reputed journals. He has extensive experience in work-integrated learning and coordinates clinical rotations for postgraduate and undergraduate students. He is well versed in development of curriculum, teaching, learning, assessment methodologies, and possesses experience in accreditation/certification processes. He holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Medicine with specialization in Clinical Pharmacology, M.Pharm, and B.Pharm degrees from the number one pharmacy school in India, and is a University Gold Medalist and Pharmacy Council of India Awardee for academic excellence.

Hooman Samani is a Lecturer in Machine Learning, AI for Robotics at the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, University of Plymouth, UK. He has worked as an associate professor and the founder and director of the AIART (Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Technology Laboratory) lab at National Taipei University of Taiwan. He holds a PhD degree in Robotics from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and has worked as a Research Fellow at the Keio-NUS CUTE Centre, a joint research centre between NUS and Keio University of Japan. He is actively serving several robotics and AI related journals and conferences as editorial board member, organizing committee member, workshop organizer and reviewer. Apart from academia, he has work experience in Philips and Posco as well as R&D projects in different industrial sectors that have rounded-out his experiences. He was featured in many international media such as Discovery Channel, New Scientist and Reuters, starring his research in robotics. In tandem with his research in robotics, he has participated and won several international RoboCup competitions. He is a proponent of ‘the best way to predict the future is to create it’. He enjoys the serendipity of traveling without planning as a real-life implementation of SLAM (Simultaneous Localization And Mapping) and Reinforcement Learning (Taking actions in an environment to maximize the notion of cumulative reward). In his spare time, he plays guitar when he is in the mood and tennis when he is not.

Prof. Yosi Shacham-Diamand, The Bernard L. Schwartz chair for nano scale information technologies, Department of Electrical Engineering – Physical electronics and the department of Material science and technology, Faculty of engineering, Tel Aviv University. He is also an endowed chair professor at the Thapar institute for engineering and technology, Patiala, India and the director of the TAU/TIET Food Security center of excellence. D.Sc. EE 1983, M.Sc. EE 1980, and B.Sc. EE (Summa-cum Laude) 1978, all in the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.  1983-post-doctorate at U.C. Berkeley, CA, USA. 1987- 1989 senior lecturer, the Technion, Israel. 1989-1996 assistant professor Cornell university, Ithaca NY, USA, 1997-2001 Associate professor and since 2001 a full professor at the school of electrical engineering, Physical Electronics department, Tel-Aviv University. Yosi has been also a Visiting professor, CNR-IMM, Rome, Italy, Visiting Professor, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan and a distinguished international chair professor, Feng Chia University, Taichung, Taiwan.  Currently he is visiting professor at the Department of Electronics and Telecommunication, The Politecnico di Torino, Torino, Italy. He served in few academic positions including being the Academic Director, Micro Technologies Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering, Tel-Aviv university (2000 –2001), the director of Tel-Aviv University research institute for Nano-Science and nano-technologies (2001–2004), Head of the department of Physical Electronics, faculty of Engineering (2007- 2011), the Vice-dean of the faculty of engineering for Industrial relations and with the friends of the faculty in Israel and abroad. He was on the university board of governors (2008-2012), University patent committee (2006-2010), head of the industrial affiliation program, Faculty of engineering (2012) and a member of the board of directors of “RAMOT” by Tel Aviv University (2008-2013). He was (2013-2018) a member of the MAGNET committee promoting basic and generic technologies in Israel, the innovation authority, Ministry of trade and Industry. Prof.. Shacham-Diamand also served as consultant to numerous manufacturing companies such as: Zoran Inc. (1983-1986), Intel Inc. Applied Materials Inc., Nova Instruments Inc., and to numerous investments and holding companies in Israel and abroad. Prof. Shacham-Diamand served on the board of directors of PCB Ltd. (2001-2003), “RAMOT” by Tel Aviv University (2008-2013), TAUVentures Inc. (2018-Now) investment and currently serves on the advisory board of CartaSense Ltd. and SolChip Ltd. He published 262 journal papers, >400 conference papers in registered proceedings, 7 chapters in books, 30 patents, edited two conference proceedings books, and two books.
His research is in the field of Micro and Nano electronics science and technology; specifically, electroless plating of metals and alloys, interconnect technology for ULSI circuits and flexible electronics, and electrochemical bio sensors the food, medical and agro applications.

Dr. Xiaoyang Liu is a Professor and Ph.D./Postdoctoral Supervisor at the School of Computer Science and Engineering, Chongqing University of Technology, China. He earned his Ph.D. from Northwestern Polytechnical University and completed postdoctoral research at Chongqing University and The University of Alabama, USA. Dr. Liu is a Senior Member of the China Computer Federation (CCF), and a member of IEEE and CAAI. He serves as an editorial board member for Computer Application Research and as a youth associate editor for the Journal of Chongqing University of Technology (Natural Science Edition). Additionally, he is a reviewer for top international journals such as IEEE/ACM Transactions on Networking, IEEE Transactions on Cybernetics, and Computer Networks. Dr. Liu has led or participated in over 30 national and provincial research projects, focusing on areas such as information propagation in social networks, cybersecurity culture transmission, emergency public event analysis, and user behavior modeling. His prolific academic output includes more than 100 papers published in prestigious journals like Expert Systems with Applications, IEEE Transactions on Computational Social Systems, Physica A, and Applied Intelligence. He holds 33 national invention patents and has authored four academic books on social network analysis, information propagation modeling, and network science. His interdisciplinary research bridges computer science, data mining, social network analysis, and nonlinear dynamics, contributing significantly to the theoretical and practical development of these fields. Dr. Liu continues to play a key role in advancing intelligent information processing and social network technology both in China and internationally.

Dr. Tao-Hsin Tung is an accomplished researcher with expertise spanning public health, medical research, and criminology. He earned a Ph.D. in Public Health from National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, completing his doctoral studies in 1996 and 2005. He also holds an SJD in Crime Prevention and Correction from Central Police University, Taiwan, awarded in 2011 and 2018.His interdisciplinary academic background integrates medical science and law, enriching both his research and teaching activities. In 2004, Dr. Tung began his career as an Associate Researcher at Cheng-Hsin General Hospital, later becoming a full Researcher in 2008. His work there focused on clinical research, epidemiology, and health education.In 2021, he joined the Evidence-Based Medicine Center at Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, affiliated with Wenzhou Medical University. His current research focuses on clinical epidemiology, biostatistics, evidence-based medicine, and disease screening.Dr. Tung also explores medical law and criminology, bridging healthcare and legal systems to inform policy development and ethical practice. His research addresses issues such as disease prevention strategies, medical safety, and crime prevention in medical contexts. He has authored numerous scientific publications and regularly contributes to academic journals and conferences worldwide. His collaborative projects often involve international researchers across health and legal disciplines. With deep knowledge of biostatistics and evidence-based medicine, Dr. Tung plays a vital role in shaping clinical guidelines and screening methods that enhance healthcare decision-making. His dual expertise in law and medicine allows him to address complex ethical and regulatory challenges in modern healthcare systems. As a respected scholar, Dr. Tung continues to influence the integration of public health, medical research, and legal standards, advancing patient safety and care quality globally.

Stefan Johansson is an Associate Professor of Education at the Department of Education and Special Education, University of Gothenburg (since 2019). He coordinates two research schools (QRM and R-QRM) focusing on quantitative methods in educational research. His work primarily utilizes international large-scale assessments and register data to investigate how formal teacher competence influences student achievement. He also examines validity issues in educational assessments, such as how well PISA test scores align with national test results and grades, specifically considering the moderating role of student motivation. Johansson serves as a member of the Questionnaire Expert Group for the OECD’s Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS). He sits on the editorial board of the journal Intelligence and is a co-editor of Educational Assessment, Evaluation and Accountability. Additionally, he reviews research proposals for the Swedish Research Council. Johansson mainly supervises doctoral students. He teaches courses on educational assessment, evaluation, measurement quality, and statistics, including instruction in statistical software such as SPSS.