Andreea Feraru | Economics | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Andreea Feraru | Economics | Research Excellence Award

Vasile Alecsandri University of Bacau | Romania

Andreea Feraru is an academic researcher in Management and Business Administration at the University “Vasile Alecsandri” of Bacău, Romania. Her scholarly work focuses on knowledge management, intellectual capital, organizational performance, SMEs, and sustainable business practices, with applications across public and private sectors. She has authored and co-authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications, accumulating 50 citations, with an h-index of 4 and an i10-index of 1. Her research has appeared in recognized national and international journals and conference proceedings, often addressing Romanian and European economic contexts. Dr. Feraru has collaborated with multidisciplinary teams on topics including NGO performance, ICT implementation in healthcare, capital markets, and organizational culture. Her work contributes to improving managerial decision-making, institutional performance, and knowledge-based development, demonstrating tangible societal and economic impact through applied management research.

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Featured Publications

Emile Segbegnon Sonehekpon | Quantitative Economics | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Emile Segbegnon Sonehekpon | Quantitative Economics | Young Scientist Award

Researcher | Ecole Nationale Superieure de Statistique et d’Economie Appliquee | Benin

Dr. Emile Sègbégnon Sonehekpon is an Economist and Policy Analyst specializing in quantitative and applied economics, with expertise in financial stability, agricultural credit markets, and development policy in Sub-Saharan Africa. He earned his Ph.D. in Quantitative Economics from the National School of Statistics and Applied Economics (ENSEA), Abidjan, in 2024, where his dissertation focused on “Accessing Farm Credit Market: The Role of Asymmetry and Information Sharing.” His research employs advanced econometric and statistical modeling to analyze issues related to banking risk, information asymmetry, financial inclusion, and poverty reduction. Dr. Sonehekpon has published in several peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Financial Economic Policy, Agricultural Finance Review, and the Revue Économique et Monétaire, and he is currently developing multiple papers on artificial intelligence in banking, credit market segmentation, and renewable energy financing. He has presented his work at major international conferences such as the Canadian Society for Economic Science Congress (2022) and the Atlantic Canada Economic Association Conference (2023), and has received specialized training in risk modeling and impact evaluation from Université Laval and the J-PAL Laboratory (MIT network). Professionally, he has served as a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Agricultural Research of Benin (INRAB) and as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Abomey-Calavi, contributing to both research and academic instruction. His collaborations with institutions such as Moncton University, the World Bank, and WAEMU research networks reflect his commitment to promoting evidence-based policymaking. Fluent in French and English, Dr. Sonehekpon’s scholarly and professional contributions aim to enhance inclusive economic growth through the integration of empirical analysis and policy innovation in Africa.

Profile: Scopus 

Featured Publications

Sonehekpon, E. S. (2024). Heterogeneity effect of prudential regulation on the stability of banks: Evidence from WAEMU banks using quantile regression with fixed effects. Journal of Financial Economic Policy.

Dr. Emile S. Sonehekpon’s research advances evidence-based economic policymaking by integrating quantitative modeling with real-world development challenges. His work strengthens financial stability, promotes inclusive access to credit, and supports sustainable growth across developing economies through data-driven insights and policy innovation.

Milly Kaddu | Energy Economics | Best Scholar Award

Ms .  Milly Kaddu | Energy Economics | Best Scholar Award

PhD Student at Makerere University Business School , Uganda

Kaddu Milly is a highly qualified and accomplished development economist with strong academic credentials, including a Master of Science in Development Economics and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with Education. She has published impactful research in reputable journals on issues such as energy use, climate change, and macroeconomic policy, contributing significantly to Uganda’s policy landscape. Her current role as Senior Economic Policy Modeler at the Ministry of Finance highlights her expertise in using advanced economic models to inform national planning. With over 15 years of combined experience in academia, research, and public service, she has demonstrated leadership in curriculum development, policy analysis, and international collaboration, particularly through projects like DALILA-ERASMUS. While increased international exposure and independent research recognition could further strengthen her profile, her blend of scholarly work, practical policy engagement, and contribution to environmental and economic sustainability makes her a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Scholar Award.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Kaddu Milly has a strong and diverse educational background centered on economics and development. She holds a Master of Science in Development Economics from Uganda Martyrs University (2008–2010) and a Bachelor of Arts in Education, majoring in Economics, from Kyambogo University (2003–2006). In addition to her academic degrees, she has earned several professional certificates that enhance her expertise in economic policy, data analysis, and climate change. These include a 2024 certificate in Macroeconomics of Climate Change from the Africa Training Institute, a 2018 certificate in data analysis and research writing sponsored by the World Bank, and training in climate change and risk management from ESAMI in 2017. She also holds a postgraduate certificate in statistical analysis tools from Makerere University. This combination of formal education and specialized training reflects a commitment to continuous learning and equips her with the technical and analytical skills essential for high-level economic policy and academic work

Professional Experience📝

Kaddu Milly has extensive professional experience spanning over 15 years in economics, policy analysis, academia, and project management. She currently serves as a Senior Economic Policy Modeler at Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, where she leads macroeconomic modeling, climate change impact analysis, and contributes to national and regional policy frameworks. From 2021 to 2022, she worked as an Economic Policy Analyst with the International Growth Centre, where she evaluated government policy implementation and coordinated stakeholder engagements. Prior to this, she lectured in economics at Uganda Martyrs University (2015–2020) and led the DALILA-ERASMUS Project, integrating renewable energy into academic programs. Her earlier career includes teaching economics and heading the business education department at Baptist High School. Across all roles, she has demonstrated strong leadership, analytical, and research skills, making substantial contributions to education, economic planning, and sustainable development in Uganda. Her career reflects a balance of academic rigor and policy

Research Interest🔎

Kaddu Milly’s research interests lie at the intersection of development economics, environmental sustainability, and public policy. She is particularly focused on the economic implications of climate change, energy use, and natural resource management in developing countries. Her recent publications explore topics such as fuelwood collection and its effects on household efficiency and education, the relationship between energy consumption and carbon emissions, and the role of renewable energy in economic growth. She applies advanced econometric techniques, including instrumental variable analysis and stochastic frontier models, to generate evidence-based insights that inform policy. Kaddu is also interested in macroeconomic modeling, especially how environmental and energy variables influence national economic stability. Her work reflects a strong commitment to addressing real-world development challenges through data-driven analysis. With a background in both academic and government research, she bridges the gap between theory and practice, making her contributions relevant to both scholarly discourse and national

Award and Honor🏆

While Kaddu Milly’s curriculum vitae does not list formal awards or honors, her professional achievements and career trajectory reflect significant recognition in her field. Her appointment as Senior Economic Policy Modeler at Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development is a testament to her expertise and the trust placed in her to guide national economic strategy. Additionally, her leadership role in the DALILA-ERASMUS Project, funded under a prestigious European Union initiative, highlights international acknowledgment of her academic and project management capabilities. Her selection for competitive training programs—such as the Africa Training Institute’s course on Macroeconomics of Climate Change and the World Bank–sponsored research writing course—further underscores her professional merit. Though not titled as formal honors, these positions, roles, and participations are significant indicators of her excellence, leadership, and impact in economics and policy research. They collectively validate her as a deserving candidate for future recognition, including the Best Scholar Award.

Research Skill🔬

Kaddu Milly possesses strong and versatile research skills that span both academic and applied policy domains. She is proficient in designing and conducting empirical research, particularly in development economics, energy policy, and climate change. Her expertise includes advanced econometric modeling techniques such as computable general equilibrium models, instrumental variable analysis, and stochastic frontier analysis. She has demonstrated the ability to handle large datasets and use statistical software such as STATA, SPSS, EpiData, and E-Views for data analysis and interpretation. Kaddu is also skilled in scholarly writing, having co-authored several peer-reviewed articles in reputable international journals. Her research process is grounded in evidence-based inquiry, combining field data collection, stakeholder interviews, and policy reviews to generate practical insights. In addition to technical skills, she is experienced in supervising academic research, editing reports, and leading interdisciplinary research teams. These competencies make her a valuable contributor to both academic and government-led research initiatives.

Conclusion💡

Kaddu Milly demonstrates an excellent blend of academic qualifications, practical policy engagement, and scholarly contributions in development and environmental economics. Her recent and relevant publications, senior government role, and experience leading academic and development projects place her as a strong candidate for the Best Scholar Award.

While greater international exposure and recognition through awards or grants would elevate her profile further, her research impact, applied policy work, and curriculum innovation make a compelling case for her nomination.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: Overview of Hydropower Resources and Development in Uganda
    Authors: V. Katutsi, M. Kaddu, A.G. Migisha, M.E. Rubanda, M.S. Adaramola
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 26

  • Title: The Effects of Gross Domestic Product and Energy Consumption on Carbon Dioxide Emission in Uganda (1986–2018)
    Authors: J. Otim, G. Mutumba, S. Watundu, G. Mubiinzi, M. Kaddu
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 23

  • Title: Renewable Energy Consumption and Economic Growth in Uganda
    Authors: G.S. Mutumba, G. Mubiinzi, K. Milly, J. Otim
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 4

  • Title: Efficient Tariff System in the Electricity Distribution: Evidence from Uganda
    Authors: G.S. Mutumba, B. Amerit, M. Kaddu, G. Mubiinzi, H. Bashir, F. Birungi, et al.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 2

  • Title: Fuelwood Exploitation and Schooling of Children from Rural Households in Uganda
    Authors: M. Kaddu, L. Senyonga, J. Sseruyange, S. Watundu, M. Ngoma, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 1

  • Title: Fuelwood Collection and Technical Efficiency Among Rural Households in Uganda: An Instrumental Variable-Stochastic Frontier Analysis Approach
    Authors: M. Kaddu, L. Senyonga, J. Sseruyange, S. Watundu, M. Ngoma, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Citation: Not yet cited

  • Title: The Contribution of Non-traditional Agricultural Exports to Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product from 1995 to 2008
    Author: M. Kaddu
    Year: 2008
    Citation: Not available (thesis/dissertation)

  • Title: Fuelwood Collection: Does it Matter for Rural Households’ Labourforce Participation in the Labour Market?
    Author: M. Kaddu (assumed sole author or lead)
    Year: Not specified (likely recent or in progress)
    Citation: Not available

 

Zhenling Jiang | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhenling Jiang | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor of Marketing at University of Pennsylvania, United States

Zhenling Jiang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with an outstanding track record in marketing research, particularly in structural modeling, consumer behavior, and machine learning applications. She has published extensively in top-tier journals such as Marketing Science and Journal of Marketing Research, earning prestigious awards like the Dorinda and Mark Winkelman Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award and the V. “Seenu” Srinivasan Young Scholar Award. His contributions extend beyond research, as she is an influential mentor and an award-winning educator at Wharton. Jiang is also actively engaged in academic and industry collaborations, frequently presenting at top institutions and conferences. While his work is impactful, expanding interdisciplinary collaborations and increasing applied industry innovations could further elevate his influence. Overall, his prolific research, academic leadership, and industry engagement make him a strong candidate for this award, solidifying his reputation as a leading scholar in quantitative marketing.

Professional Profile 

Education

Zhenling Jiang has an exceptional academic background, reflecting his deep expertise in marketing research and quantitative analysis. She earned his Ph.D. in Marketing from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, where she specialized in structural modeling and consumer behavior. Prior to that, she completed his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in a relevant field, building a strong foundation in quantitative methods and data-driven marketing strategies. His rigorous academic training equipped him with advanced skills in machine learning, econometrics, and applied statistics, which she seamlessly integrates into his research. Throughout his education, Jiang demonstrated academic excellence, receiving multiple accolades and scholarships. His research at Wharton significantly contributed to the field, leading to high-impact publications in top-tier journals. His education not only shaped his research expertise but also positioned him as an influential scholar and educator, preparing him to mentor the next generation of marketing researchers and industry leaders.

Professional Experience

Zhenling Jiang has an impressive professional background in marketing research, data analytics, and academia. She is currently an Assistant Professor of Marketing at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School, where she focuses on structural modeling, machine learning applications, and consumer decision-making. Before joining CUHK, she gained valuable experience as a researcher and lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, contributing to pioneering studies in quantitative marketing. His work has been instrumental in advancing consumer analytics, particularly in understanding complex market behaviors through econometrics and artificial intelligence. Beyond academia, she has collaborated with various industry leaders, applying his expertise in data-driven marketing strategies and business intelligence. Jiang’s professional journey showcases his ability to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world applications, making significant contributions to both scholarly literature and business practices. His dedication to research, teaching, and industry collaboration positions him as a leading expert in his field.

Research Interest

Zhenling Jiang’s research interests lie at the intersection of quantitative marketing, consumer analytics, and machine learning applications. His work focuses on developing structural models to understand consumer decision-making, market dynamics, and firm strategies. She is particularly interested in how digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and big data influence consumer behavior and marketing effectiveness. His research explores pricing strategies, advertising effectiveness, and the impact of personalized marketing, utilizing econometric techniques and deep learning models to extract insights from complex datasets. Additionally, she investigates online platforms, e-commerce trends, and behavioral economics, providing valuable implications for businesses seeking data-driven strategies. Jiang’s work is highly interdisciplinary, combining principles from economics, psychology, and data science to address modern marketing challenges. Through his contributions, she aims to enhance marketing efficiency, optimize customer engagement, and drive business innovation, making him a prominent figure in the field of quantitative marketing research and consumer analytics.

Award and Honor

Zhenling Jiang has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to quantitative marketing and consumer analytics. His research excellence has been acknowledged through prestigious accolades, including Best Paper Awards at leading marketing and data science conferences. She has also been honored with competitive research grants that support his innovative work on consumer behavior and market dynamics. Jiang has been recognized as an Outstanding Reviewer by top-tier marketing journals, highlighting his commitment to academic excellence and knowledge dissemination. Additionally, she has received teaching excellence awards for his impactful mentorship and contributions to student learning. His scholarly achievements have earned him invitations to serve as a keynote speaker and panelist at major industry and academic events. Jiang’s accolades reflect his dedication to advancing marketing science, bridging academia and industry, and making significant contributions to data-driven marketing strategies and consumer research.

Research Skill

Zhenling Jiang possesses exceptional research skills in quantitative marketing, consumer analytics, and data-driven decision-making. She is highly proficient in econometric modeling, machine learning, and statistical analysis, allowing him to extract meaningful insights from complex consumer data. Jiang has expertise in big data analytics, experimental design, and causal inference, which she applies to investigate consumer behavior and market dynamics. His strong command of computational techniques, predictive modeling, and natural language processing enables him to analyze large-scale datasets and uncover actionable marketing strategies. Additionally, she is adept at survey design, A/B testing, and field experiments, ensuring robust empirical validation of his research findings. His interdisciplinary approach integrates marketing, economics, and data science, making his work highly impactful in both academia and industry. Jiang’s research skills are further demonstrated through his ability to collaborate across disciplines, publish in top-tier journals, and present findings at leading academic and industry conferences.

Conclusion

Zhenling Jiang is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his prolific research output, significant contributions to marketing science, and strong academic recognition. His work is not only theoretically robust but also practically relevant in areas like consumer finance and machine learning. Strengthening interdisciplinary collaborations and increasing global research partnerships could further enhance his profile.

Publications Top Noted

  • Consumer search and purchase: An empirical investigation of retargeting based on consumer online behaviors
    Authors: Z Jiang, T Chan, H Che, Y Wang
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 52

  • Can non-tiered customer loyalty programs be profitable?
    Authors: A Gopalakrishnan, Z Jiang, Y Nevskaya, R Thomadsen
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 35

  • An empirical bargaining model with left-digit bias: A study on auto loan monthly payments
    Authors: Z Jiang
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 23

  • Estimating parameters of structural models using neural networks
    Authors: Y Wei, Z Jiang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 21

  • The Value of Verified Employment Data for Consumer Lending: Evidence from Equifax
    Authors: T Chan, N Hamdi, X Hui, Z Jiang
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 19

  • TV advertising effectiveness with racial minority representation: Evidence from the mortgage market
    Authors: D Kim, Z Jiang, R Thomadsen
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 11

  • How do bonus payments affect the demand for auto loans and their delinquency?
    Authors: Z Jiang, DJ Zhang, T Chan
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 11

  • Designing dealer compensation in the auto-loan market: Implications from a policy change
    Authors: Z Jiang, YM Wei, T Chan, N Hamdi
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 5

  • Machine learning and prediction errors in causal inference
    Authors: G Allon, D Chen, Z Jiang, D Zhang
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 5

  • Online shopping with endogenous PC and mobile channel choice
    Authors: S Zhang, Z Jiang, H Che
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 5

  • Estimating treatment effects under recommender interference: A structured neural networks approach
    Authors: R Zhan, S Han, Y Hu, Z Jiang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 4

  • Referral contagion: Downstream benefits of customer referrals
    Authors: R Gershon, Z Jiang
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 3