Daon Hwang | Clinical Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Daon Hwang | Clinical Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Daon Hwang,  Depatment of Physical Therapy, Korea Natiional University of Transportation,  South Korea.

Daon Hwang is a dedicated physical therapist and Ph.D. candidate at Korea National University of Transportation, with a strong academic and clinical foundation in adult neurological rehabilitation. His research portfolio includes six completed projects and six peer-reviewed publications, focusing on stroke rehabilitation, gait analysis, neurorehabilitation, and assistive device development. With a practical background in clinical therapy and consulting experience in device usability, he effectively bridges the gap between research and real-world application. His active involvement in professional organizations further enriches his contributions to the rehabilitation field.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Daon Hwang began his academic journey with a deep interest in the human body and its recovery mechanisms, leading him to pursue a career in physical therapy. He earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Physical Therapy from Korea National University of Transportation (KNUT). His early academic years were marked by diligence and a curiosity-driven approach to the complexities of neurological rehabilitation. His strong academic performance and growing passion for evidence-based practice set the stage for his current doctoral research.

💼 Professional Endeavors

As a licensed physical therapist, Daon Hwang has accumulated meaningful clinical experience, particularly in the field of adult neurological rehabilitation. His hands-on work with stroke patients has fueled his commitment to integrating practical therapy with innovative research. His current role as a Ph.D. candidate at KNUT allows him to bridge clinical practice with academic exploration, where he also provides consultancy on assistive devices. Daon continues to evolve both as a practitioner and as a scholar in the rehabilitation sciences.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Daon’s primary research focuses include stroke rehabilitation, neurorehabilitation, gait analysis, and the development of assistive technologies. He has successfully completed six research projects, exploring diverse aspects such as proprioceptive training and the usability of rehabilitation devices. His scholarly output includes six peer-reviewed journal publications—two in SCI-indexed journals and four in KCI-indexed journals. These works contribute to enhancing therapeutic protocols and improving patients’ functional outcomes, particularly in post-stroke recovery.

🧪 Research Innovation and Impact

Daon’s innovative contributions are evident in his work with assistive device usability, having collaborated on three industry consulting projects to improve device design and user experience for stroke patients. His research has not only advanced academic knowledge but also offered real-world applicability in clinical settings. His studies often highlight the integration of biomechanical analysis and rehabilitation techniques to create more personalized and effective interventions.

🏅 Accolades and Professional Involvement

While Daon Hwang has not yet published books or acquired patents, his membership in several esteemed professional bodies reflects his dedication to continued learning and contribution to the field. He is an active member of the Korean Academy of Orthopedic Manipulative Physical Therapy, the Korean Physical Therapy Association, and the Korea Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Association. Through these affiliations, he stays at the forefront of developments in physical therapy and rehabilitation science.

🌍 Influence and Collaboration

Though he has not formally reported collaborative research projects, Daon’s consulting work and clinical partnerships demonstrate a growing sphere of influence. His findings are increasingly referenced by peers and practitioners, particularly in the areas of gait mechanics and neuro-motor rehabilitation. His dual role in academia and practice ensures his research remains grounded in clinical relevance.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Daon Hwang aspires to further integrate technology with neurorehabilitation strategies, aiming to develop more efficient, adaptive tools for stroke survivors. His doctoral work and future post-doctoral goals center on refining rehabilitative methods through data-driven research and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a vision of contributing meaningfully to global rehabilitation science, Daon is poised to leave a lasting legacy of innovation, empathy, and excellence in physical therapy.

Publication

  • Title: Usability Test for an Over-Ground Walking Assistance Robotic Device Based on the Mecanum Wheel
    Authors: Daon Hwang; EunPyeong Choi; Ki Hun Cho
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Changes in Balance Ability, Physical Performance and Lower Extremity Proprioception according to the Compression Stockings in University Students
    Authors: Daon Hwang; Hyeong Gyu Kim; Na Young Kang; Eun Seo Park; Hyun Young Yoo; Jun Young Lee; Seo Yeong Jang; Cheol Woo Hwang; Ki Hun Cho
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Usability Test for a Cane-Combined Weight Support Feedback Device
    Authors: Daon Hwang; Ki Hun Cho
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Usability Test for Motion Tracking Gait Assistive Walker
    Authors: Daon Hwang; Ki Hun Cho
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: The Effect of Mirror Therapy on the Balance, Gait and Motor Function in Patients with Subacute Stroke: A Pilot Study
    Authors: Min-Su Song; Soon-Hee Kang
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: Effect of Mirror Therapy on the Balance, Gait and Motor Function in Patients with Subacute Stroke
    Authors: Min-Su Song; Soon-Hee Kang
    Year: 2021

 

Conclusion

Driven by a passion for enhancing recovery outcomes in stroke patients, Daon Hwang has positioned himself as a promising scholar and practitioner in the field of physical therapy. His blend of academic rigor, clinical expertise, and innovation in assistive technologies reflects a career marked by meaningful impact and ongoing growth. As he advances toward completing his Ph.D., his work continues to shape the future of neurorehabilitation—promoting evidence-based practices and contributing to patient-centered healthcare innovations.

Abdullah Alghamdi | Emerging Areas in Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Abdullah Alghamdi | Emerging Areas in Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Abdullah Alghamdi, University of Birmingham (UK) and Taibah University (Saudi Arabia),  United Kingdom.

Eng. Abdullah A. Zohaid (SMIEEE, SMIET) is an accomplished electrical engineer and academic with a specialization in Smart Power Systems, focusing on electric vehicles, AI-integrated transportation systems, and sustainable smart city infrastructure. With a solid educational foundation—earning distinctions at every academic level—he has seamlessly merged academic excellence with real-world engineering experience. From his early career at Saudi Aramco to his dual lecturing roles at Taibah University and the University of Birmingham, Abdullah has built a reputation as a forward-thinking researcher, educator, and strategist. His work bridges technical innovation with societal needs, aiming to optimize power grids and energy systems for a sustainable future.

Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

From the historic city of Medina, Saudi Arabia, Eng. Abdullah A. Zohaid embarked on his academic journey in Electrical Engineering at Taibah University, where his talent and determination earned him distinction in his final project. His academic passion soon carried him to the United Kingdom, where he pursued an MSc in Electrical Power Systems at the University of Birmingham, graduating with First-Class Honors and distinction. Abdullah’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence continued as he embarked on a Ph.D. in Smart Power Systems at the same institution. Excelling in all areas, he has distinguished himself through both research prowess and scholastic achievement.

⚡ Professional Endeavors

Eng. Alghamdi has established himself as a dynamic professional straddling the worlds of academia and industry. His journey began with Saudi Aramco’s Dodsal Company, contributing to the vital 56″ Gas Pipeline project as an assistant electrical engineer. He transitioned into academia with his role as a Lecturer at Taibah University in Yanbu and later joined the University of Birmingham as a faculty member. Balancing dual academic roles in Saudi Arabia and the UK, Abdullah has developed a unique global perspective, blending practical engineering insight with cutting-edge educational delivery. His presence as an educator underscores his belief in empowering future engineers with real-world readiness.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

A scholar deeply embedded in the future of sustainable power, Eng. Alghamdi’s research focuses on Smart Power Systems, electric vehicles, smart charging infrastructures, and the integration of AI in intelligent transportation systems. Through his ongoing Ph.D. research, he explores how emerging technologies can enhance smart grid resilience and contribute to the development of smart cities. He utilizes advanced simulation and optimization tools such as MATLAB/SIMULINK, Python, and Gurobi, combined with machine learning techniques (ANN/CNN), to propose innovative solutions that address pressing energy challenges. His passion for sustainability is evident in his contributions to the global energy discourse, especially in urban mobility and decarbonization.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Eng. Zohaid’s career is adorned with recognition and academic milestones. His consistent distinction in every academic phase, including honors during both his MSc and Ph.D. studies, reflects a sustained trajectory of excellence. As a senior member of prestigious engineering bodies like IEEE and IET, and a certified Professional Engineer by the Saudi Council of Engineers, his credentials are a testament to his standing in the professional community. Furthermore, his publications in Q1 journals and contributions to leading international conferences validate the depth of his research and the quality of his scholarly communication.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With affiliations across IEEE working groups and university research circles, Eng. Alghamdi’s influence spans global academic and professional spheres. As a presenter and contributor at numerous high-level conferences — from the IEEE Power & Energy Society to Net Zero Futures and Saudi Innovation events — he has played a key role in shaping conversations on smart energy. His multidisciplinary expertise allows him to drive collaborations across AI, optimization, and power systems, impacting both policy and practice. His ability to simplify complex engineering concepts and communicate them effectively has enabled him to become a trusted voice among peers and students alike.

💡 Innovation and Strategic Vision

Abdullah’s strength lies in visionary thinking and strategic problem-solving. He doesn’t merely research problems—he crafts systems and strategies that reflect future-forward thinking. His approach to sustainable urban infrastructure blends technological acumen with strategic planning, leadership, and innovation. As an educator and researcher, he fosters environments that promote critical thinking and team-based innovation, cultivating the next generation of engineers equipped to face tomorrow’s challenges. His work on smart charging and intelligent transportation embodies the essence of transformative impact through design thinking and systems innovation.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Eng. Abdullah A. Zohaid is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the realm of smart power systems and urban sustainability. His dual role as a lecturer and researcher gives him a powerful platform to shape both academic knowledge and real-world applications. With his continued focus on electrification, smart mobility, and AI-driven infrastructure, he is on track to influence policy, inspire innovation, and expand the boundaries of what is possible in modern power systems. His legacy will be defined not only by the technologies he helps build but also by the students and professionals he inspires along the way.

Publication

  • Innovative Prepositioning and Dispatching Schemes of Electric Vehicles for Smart Distribution Network Resiliency and Restoration
    AAM Alghamdi, D. Jayaweera, 2022

 

  • Resilience of Modern Power Distribution Networks with Active Coordination of EVs and Smart Restoration
    AAM Alghamdi, D. Jayaweera, 2023

 

  • Modelling Frameworks Applied in Smart Distribution Network Resiliency and Restoration
    AAM Alghamdi, D. Jayaweera, 2022

 

  • Resilience-Oriented Restoration in Modern Power Distribution Networks with Smart Electric Vehicles Coordination Framework
    A. Alghamdi, D. Jayaweera, 2023

 

  • Risk and Resilience Based Residential Electric Vehicle Integration Framework for Restoration of Modern Power Distribution Networks
    A. Alghamdi, D. Jayaweera, 2025

 

  • Electric Boats and Electric Vehicles Data-Driven Approach for Enhanced Resilience in Power Distribution Networks
    AAM Alghamdi, D. Jayaweera, 2025

 

✅ Conclusion

Eng. Alghamdi stands at the forefront of energy transformation, using research, innovation, and teaching as tools to drive meaningful change. His contributions reflect a blend of technical mastery and visionary leadership, enabling progress in smart mobility, clean energy, and intelligent infrastructure. With a growing portfolio of Q1 publications, prestigious memberships, and impactful conference roles, he continues to influence the field of electrical engineering on a global scale. As he advances in his career, his legacy will be marked by both technological advancements and the future minds he mentors—solidifying his role as a transformative figure in the evolution of smart power systems.

Jiwei Nie | Emerging Areas in Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jiwei Nie | Emerging Areas in Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jiwei Nie, Haier Group, China.

Jiwei Nie is an accomplished Chinese researcher specializing in Artificial Intelligence-based Pattern Recognition and Intelligent Detection, with a strong focus on AI large models. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Design and Automation and evolved into a deeply integrated path through a Master’s and Ph.D. in Control Science and Engineering at Northeastern University. Throughout his doctoral research, he has made notable contributions to the field of Visual Place Recognition (VPR) for autonomous systems, publishing in prestigious journals such as IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems and IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters. Jiwei’s innovations—especially in lightweight, training-free image descriptors and adaptive texture fusion—have positioned him at the forefront of applied AI in robotics and automation. He has also presented at major international conferences and holds multiple patents.

Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

 Jiwei Nie displayed a deep interest in engineering and innovation from an early age. His academic journey began at Hebei University of Science and Technology, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing, and Automation. His strong academic performance earned him first-class honors, and he graduated in July 2018. Motivated to delve deeper into the fusion of machinery and intelligence, he advanced to Northeastern University, completing his Master’s degree in Mechanical and Electronic Engineering by July 2020. Driven by a vision to integrate control systems with intelligent technologies, he enrolled in a PhD program in Control Science and Engineering under a prestigious Integrated Master-PhD track, further solidifying his expertise in the intelligent automation domain.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Jiwei’s professional development has been tightly interwoven with his academic path, where he has continuously applied theoretical insights to practical problems in Artificial Intelligence and Control Systems. As a member of the Communist Party of China, he approaches his work with a strong sense of discipline and public responsibility. His fluency in English, proven by his CET-6 certification, has enabled him to actively contribute to the global research community, engaging in international collaborations and conferences. Alongside his research, Jiwei has contributed to academic circles through mentorship roles and cross-institutional projects, making a significant impact both inside and outside his university.

🤖 Contributions and Research Focus

Jiwei Nie’s research is at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence-based Pattern Recognition and Intelligent Detection, with a special emphasis on AI Large Models. His work focuses on developing lightweight, efficient algorithms for Visual Place Recognition (VPR)—a critical capability for autonomous vehicles and robotic systems. He has pioneered new methods in saliency encoding, feature mixing, and texture fusion, leading to more robust and adaptive AI systems. Through these contributions, he has addressed real-world challenges in long-term navigation and intelligent perception, pushing the boundaries of control science and machine intelligence.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

During his PhD, Jiwei published multiple high-impact articles in leading SCI-indexed journals. His paper in the IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems, titled “A Training-Free, Lightweight Global Image Descriptor for Long-Term Visual Place Recognition Toward Autonomous Vehicles”, has been particularly well-received and is ranked in Q1. Additional works in IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters have been ranked in Q2, highlighting his innovations such as MixVPR++ and Efficient Saliency Encoding. Furthermore, Jiwei’s presence has been notable at world-class conferences like ICPR, ICRA, and IROS, where he presented his work to a global audience of peers and experts. He also holds several patents, including an invention patent, and continues to submit further manuscripts to top-tier venues.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Jiwei’s research has had a significant influence on the future of intelligent transportation and autonomous systems. His development of training-free VPR models has contributed to making autonomous navigation more scalable and cost-effective, especially in dynamic environments where traditional AI systems fail. His proposed methods are not only academically rigorous but are also computationally efficient, paving the way for real-world deployment. Through his innovation and academic collaborations, he has helped bridge the gap between theoretical AI models and practical engineering applications, which is vital for industries moving toward Industry 4.0 and smart mobility solutions.

🧠 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Jiwei Nie aspires to deepen his research in generalized large AI models, expanding the scalability and generalization abilities of pattern recognition systems across domains beyond transportation—such as smart surveillance, industrial robotics, and medical imaging. His planned future publications and continued patent filings reflect a strong ambition to lead the next generation of intelligent systems research. Jiwei is committed to fostering innovation that aligns with both academic excellence and societal needs, aiming to establish himself as a pioneering researcher and mentor in the evolving field of intelligent detection and AI integration.

🔬 Vision in AI and Control Engineering

Jiwei Nie stands as a rising expert in the convergence of Artificial Intelligence, Control Science, and Robotic Vision, a field essential for the future of smart systems and automation. His deep technical knowledge, coupled with a strategic vision, positions him to contribute not only as a researcher but also as a thought leader in AI-driven engineering. With a career rooted in innovation and societal benefit, his trajectory points toward a legacy of breakthroughs that will influence smart cities, autonomous systems, and global AI research landscapes for years to come.

Publication

  • Title: A survey of extrinsic parameters calibration techniques for autonomous devices
    Authors: J Nie, F Pan, D Xue, L Luo
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: A training-free, lightweight global image descriptor for long-term visual place recognition toward autonomous vehicles
    Authors: J Nie, JM Feng, D Xue, F Pan, W Liu, J Hu, S Cheng
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: Forest: A lightweight semantic image descriptor for robust visual place recognition
    Authors: P Hou, J Chen, J Nie, Y Liu, J Zhao
    Year: 2022

 

  • Title: A novel image descriptor with aggregated semantic skeleton representation for long-term visual place recognition
    Authors: J Nie, JM Feng, D Xue, F Pan, W Liu, J Hu, S Cheng
    Year: 2022

 

  • Title: Efficient saliency encoding for visual place recognition: Introducing the lightweight pooling-centric saliency-aware VPR method
    Authors: J Nie, D Xue, F Pan, Z Ning, W Liu, J Hu, S Cheng
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: 3D semantic scene completion and occupancy prediction for autonomous driving: A survey
    Authors: G Xu, W Liu, Z Ning, Q Zhao, S Cheng, J Nie
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: A Novel Image Descriptor with Aggregated Semantic Skeleton Representation for Long-term Visual Place Recognition
    Authors: N Jiwei, F Joe-Mei, X Dingyu, P Feng, L Wei, H Jun, C Shuai
    Year: 2022

 

  • Title: Optic Disc and Fovea Localization based on Anatomical Constraints and Heatmaps Regression
    Authors: L Luo, F Pan, D Xue, X Feng, J Nie
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: A Novel Fractional-Order Discrete Grey Model with Initial Condition Optimization and Its Application
    Authors: Y Liu, F Pan, D Xue, J Nie
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: EPSA-VPR: A lightweight visual place recognition method with an Efficient Patch Saliency-weighted Aggregator
    Authors: J Nie, Q Zhào, D Xue, F Pan, W Liu
    Year: 2025

 

🔚 Conclusion

With a solid foundation in engineering and control systems and an innovative mindset in artificial intelligence, Jiwei Nie is poised to become a key figure in the evolution of intelligent automation technologies. His work contributes not only to academic theory but also to practical applications that influence the development of autonomous vehicles, intelligent detection systems, and large AI model architectures. As he approaches the completion of his Ph.D. in early 2025, Jiwei is expected to continue pushing technological boundaries, inspiring future advancements in AI research and real-world intelligent systems deployment.