Dongzhi Chen | Business | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dongzhi Chen | Business | Research Excellence Award

Associate Professor | Tianjin University of Finance and Economics | China

Dr. Dongzhi Chen is a researcher at the China Tourism Academy / Data Center of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Beijing, specializing in tourism analytics, digital platforms, and consumer behavior within the hospitality sector. His research focuses on peer-to-peer accommodation, platform-based trust mechanisms, and the evolving dynamics of traveler–host interactions. Dr. Chen has produced 11 scholarly publications, which have collectively earned 146 citations and an h-index of 6, demonstrating both his academic productivity and the rising impact of his work. His recent article, “Hosts’ Facial Affinity in Peer-to-Peer Platforms: Scale Development and Validation”, reflects his expertise in developing behavioral scales, applying robust empirical methods, and exploring nuanced dimensions of digital hospitality engagement. Over the course of his research career, Dr. Chen has collaborated with 19 co-authors, contributing to multidisciplinary studies that address tourism experience quality, service personalization, consumer perception modeling, and data-driven strategic planning. His research has been cited in studies related to digital consumer psychology, platform governance, tourism marketing, and service innovation, underscoring its relevance to both industry practitioners and academic scholars. Dr. Chen’s work also plays an important societal and policy role by offering evidence-based insights that enhance cultural tourism development, inform government decision-making, and support the sustainable growth of China’s tourism ecosystem. With a strong commitment to methodological rigor and applied research, he aims to advance the global understanding of tourism behavior while promoting innovative approaches that improve service standards, strengthen the competitiveness of tourism industries, and contribute positively to the broader field of hospitality and tourism management.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Chen, D., Zhang, W., Lian, M., Ma, P., & Xu, J. (2025). Hosts’ facial affinity in peer‑to‑peer platforms: Scale development and validation. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Management. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhtm.2025.101339 

Chen, D., Zhang, W., Bi, J.-W., Qiu, H., & Lyu, J. (2024). Hosts’ online affinities and their impacts on the number of online reviews on peer-to-peer platforms. Tourism Management, 100, 104817. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2023.104817 ScienceDirect+1

Qiu, H., Chen, D., Yang, J., Zhang, K., & Liu, T. (2024). Tourism collaboration evaluation and research directions. Tourism Recreation Research, 49(2), 431–438. https://doi.org/10.1080/02508281.2021.2023838 Taylor & Francis Online+1

Chen, D., & Bi, J.-W. (2022). Cue congruence effects of attribute performance and hosts’ service quality attributes on room sales on peer-to-peer accommodation platforms. International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijchm-10-2021-1275 ResearchGate+1

Qiu, H., Chen, D., Lyu, J., He, H., & Li, C. (2021). Affinity-seeking strategies of homestay hosts: Scale development and validation. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Management. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhtm.2021.09.008

Maria dos Santos | Management | Excellence in Research

Assist. Prof. Dr. Maria dos Santos | Management | Excellence in Research

Assistant Professor | University of Coimbra | Portugal

Assist. Prof. Dr. Maria do Céu Colaço dos Santos is an accomplished academic and researcher at the University of Coimbra, where she serves as Assistant Professor in Public-Private Administration within the Faculty of Law and as a researcher at CeBER – Centre for Business and Economics Research. She holds a Ph.D. in Management from the Faculty of Economics at the University of Coimbra and a postdoctoral degree in Public Administration from the University of Lisbon (ISCSP). At the Faculty of Law, she teaches across both undergraduate and master’s programs in public-private administration, bringing academic rigor and applied expertise to her courses. Over a career spanning more than 15 years, Dr. Santos has developed recognized expertise in organizational studies, with particular emphasis on emotional intelligence, creativity, innovation, organizational change, contract breach, and public sector excellence. Her teaching and research are complemented by active participation in international conferences and collaborations that bridge theory and practice in governance and management. She has published extensively in prestigious outlets such as Innovation: Organization & Management, International Journal of Organizational Analysis, European Management Review, and the Boletim de Ciências Económicas, with her work indexed in Scopus and widely recognized for advancing understanding of employee creativity, task conflict, role stress, and self-efficacy in high-tech firms. Her research skills include advanced qualitative and quantitative analysis, cross-cultural collaboration, and the integration of interdisciplinary perspectives into innovative organizational models. Dr. Santos has been invited to present at international forums, contribute to policy-oriented research projects, and mentor young scholars, underscoring her role as both a thought leader and community contributor. She is also an active member of academic and professional associations, strengthening her research visibility and professional networks. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and innovation, Dr. Maria do Céu Colaço dos Santos continues to make impactful contributions to organizational research, leadership development, and the global academic community—making her a deserving candidate for recognition and awards.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Santos, M. C. C., Coelho, F., Sousa, C. M. P., & Evanschitzky, H. (2025, March 9). Emotional intelligence and employee creativity in high-tech firms. Innovation: Organization & Management.

  2. Santos, M. C. C., Coelho, F., & Gomes, J. F. S. (2023, January 24). Competitive psychological climate, conflict and psychological contract breach. European Management Review, 20(3), 561-575.

  3. Santos, M. C. C. (2024). Gestão da Qualidade Total, qualidade do serviço público e modelos de excelência. Boletim de Ciências Económicas, Faculdade de Direito da Universidade de Coimbra.

  4. Santos, M. C. C., & Martins, L. L. (2023). Cidades sustentáveis, verdes, inteligentes, criativas e circulares: metodologias para avaliar a sustentabilidade da cidade. Revista do Centro de Estudos em Direito do Ordenamento, Urbanismo e do Ambiente (CEDOUA), Faculdade de Direito da Universidade de Coimbra, 47, 44-57.

  5. dos Santos, M. C. C., & Martins, L. L. (2021). A execução de políticas públicas sociais no novo regime da contratação pública da União Europeia: em especial a relevância das organizações do Terceiro Sector / The implementation of social public policies in the new public procurement regime in the European Union: the relevance of Third Sector organizations. Brazilian Journal of Business, 3(1), 579-591.

Aspasia Chita | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Aspasia Chita | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Head of Civilian Personnel Office of Hellenic Police in Thessaly at International hellenic university, Greece

Mrs. Aspasia Chita is an accomplished professional with expertise in human resource management, public administration, and communication. She holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the International Hellenic University, an MA in International Journalism, and a BA in Journalism, Film, and Broadcasting from Cardiff University. With extensive experience in personnel management at the Hellenic Ministry of Citizen Protection and past roles in journalism, communication consulting, and asylum case evaluation, she combines analytical research with practical governance insights. Aspasia has presented academic work on public sector innovation and institutional communication at international conferences, reflecting her commitment to research and knowledge dissemination. Additionally, she holds certifications in mentoring, HR development, and training. Recognized for her analytical skills, organizational expertise, and research contributions, she continues to bridge academia and practice in public administration. Her dedication to innovation and communication in governance makes her a valuable asset in both academic and professional circles.

Professional Profile 

Education

Mrs. Aspasia Chita has a strong academic background with degrees and certifications spanning journalism, public administration, and human resource management. She holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the International Hellenic University and a Master of Arts in International Journalism from the University of Wales, Cardiff. Additionally, she earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Journalism, Film, and Broadcasting from Cardiff University. To further enhance her expertise, she has obtained specialized certifications, including Human Resource Development Consulting, Mentoring in Public Administration, and Training of Trainers from the National Centre for Public Administration and Local Government in Greece. Her educational journey reflects a commitment to continuous learning, blending media and communication expertise with public sector administration and human resource development. This diverse educational foundation equips her with the necessary skills to analyze, manage, and innovate within complex organizational structures, making her a highly knowledgeable professional in her field.

Professional Experience

Mrs. Aspasia Chita has extensive professional experience in human resource management, public administration, journalism, and communication. Since 2014, she has served as the Head of the Civilian Personnel Office at the Hellenic Ministry of Citizen Protection, overseeing personnel management for multiple police directorates in Thessaly. Previously, she worked as an International Protection Case Officer at the Asylum Service, conducting interviews and research on asylum applications. Her experience also includes roles as an Administrative & Financial Officer at the Hellenic Agricultural Insurance Organization, where she acted as a journalist and communication consultant, and as a Journalism Instructor at IEK AKMI. Additionally, she has taught English and served as a faculty member at the National Centre for Public Administration and Local Government. Her career reflects a dynamic blend of administrative leadership, policy research, and media expertise, making her a well-rounded professional with a strong impact in both governance and communication.

Research Interest

Mrs. Aspasia Chita’s research interests lie at the intersection of public administration, institutional communication, human resource management, and innovation in governance. She is particularly focused on exploring how digital transformation and communication channels can enhance efficiency, adaptability, and transparency in public sector organizations. Her recent research examines the role of organizational culture in fostering innovation, advocating for a human-centered approach to public administration reform. Additionally, she has a strong interest in policy development, personnel management strategies, and leadership in public institutions, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in decision-making processes. Her academic work, including a refereed conference paper on digital innovation in public administration, demonstrates her commitment to bridging theory with practical governance solutions. By integrating media, technology, and management studies, she aims to contribute to the modernization of public institutions and enhance their responsiveness to contemporary challenges in administration and policy implementation.

Award and Honor

Mrs. Aspasia Chita has been recognized for her contributions to public administration, communication, and human resource management through various academic and professional achievements. She has received endorsements from esteemed scholars, including Professor Karin Wahl-Jorgensen, who praised her analytical skills, dedication to research, and expertise in international journalism and public administration. Her work has been acknowledged through her participation in prestigious academic conferences, such as the 1st International Conference on Public Administration, where she presented a refereed paper on digital innovation in governance. Additionally, her role as a faculty member at the National Centre for Public Administration and Local Government highlights her influence in shaping public sector training and development. While formal awards are not explicitly mentioned in her profile, her academic credentials, leadership roles, and research contributions demonstrate a high level of professional recognition and respect in her field, reinforcing her status as a distinguished researcher and public administrator.

Research Skill

Mrs. Aspasia Chita possesses strong research skills in the fields of public administration, human resource management, and institutional communication. She has demonstrated expertise in policy analysis, qualitative research, and data interpretation, particularly in examining organizational culture and digital innovation in governance. Her ability to conduct in-depth research is evident in her work as an International Protection Case Officer, where she performed Country of Origin Information (COI) research and drafted asylum application reports. Additionally, her academic contributions, including a refereed conference paper on innovation in public administration, showcase her proficiency in critical analysis, academic writing, and knowledge dissemination. Aspasia’s multidisciplinary background in journalism and public administration enables her to integrate diverse research methodologies, enhancing the practical impact of her studies. Her ability to synthesize complex information, develop strategic insights, and present findings effectively makes her a highly skilled researcher in both academic and professional settings.

Conclusion

Aspasia Chita demonstrates strong research capabilities in public administration, communication, and human resource management. Her academic background, professional experience, and conference contributions indicate a well-rounded researcher with practical impact. However, to solidify her position as a leading researcher, she may need to expand her published work and participate in more international collaborations.

Publications Top Noted

  • Author: Chita, Aspasia
  • Year: 2025
  • Title: The Digital Revolution at the Service of Public Action: Managing by Creating Communication Channels of Innovation
  • Publication Type: Conference paper
  • Date of Publication: March 5, 2025
  • DOI: 10.3390/proceedings2024111011
  • Conference: 1st International Conference on Public Administration
  • Research Focus: Innovation in public administration through digital communication channels.

 

Nuno Moutinho | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Nuno Moutinho | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Professor at IPB, Portugal

Prof. Dr. Nuno Moutinho is a Lecturer in Management and Finance at the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB), Portugal, and a member of the Applied Management Research Unit (UNIAG). With a Ph.D. in Management and Finance from the University of Porto, he specializes in corporate finance, stock market impacts, and syndicated loan spreads. An accomplished researcher, he has published extensively in ABS-ranked and high-impact journals such as Finance Research Letters and Corporate Governance. His works explore topics like corporate malpractice effects, cyber-attack impacts, and borrower country influences on financial spreads. Prof. Moutinho is also an active reviewer for international journals and a frequent presenter at global conferences. As an educator, he leads undergraduate and master’s modules, incorporating innovative teaching methods like Project-Based Learning and Business Simulation. A Chartered Accountant, he combines academic rigor with professional expertise, contributing significantly to finance research and education.

Professional Profile 

Education

Prof. Dr. Nuno Moutinho holds a distinguished academic background in the fields of Management and Finance. He earned his Ph.D. in Management with a specialization in Finance from the Faculty of Economics at the University of Porto, where he conducted advanced research on corporate finance and financial systems. Prior to this, he completed a Master’s degree in Finance from the same institution, focusing on quantitative and applied aspects of financial analysis. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Management from the Catholic University of Porto, where he developed a strong foundation in business administration and strategic management. This robust educational background has equipped him with in-depth expertise in finance, economics, and management, enabling him to excel in both academic and professional arenas. Prof. Moutinho’s education underpins his extensive contributions to research, teaching, and practical applications in the field of finance.

Professional Experience

Prof. Dr. Nuno Moutinho boasts extensive professional experience in academia and the finance sector. He currently serves as a Lecturer in Management and Finance at the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB), where he is also the course director for the International Business Management program. A dedicated educator, he teaches undergraduate and master’s courses in Financial Management, International Project Management, and Business Finance, integrating innovative methods such as Project-Based Learning and Business Simulations. Beyond teaching, he is a prolific researcher affiliated with the Applied Management Research Unit (UNIAG) and has published in prestigious ABS-ranked journals. Prof. Moutinho frequently presents at international conferences and serves as a reviewer for renowned journals. In addition to his academic achievements, he is a Chartered Accountant and an active member of professional accounting associations. His dual expertise in academia and finance exemplifies his commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in the field.

Research Interest

Prof. Dr. Nuno Moutinho’s research interests lie at the intersection of corporate finance, financial markets, and international economics. His work focuses on understanding stock market dynamics through event studies, analyzing how corporate malpractices, cyber-attacks, and economic disruptions impact financial performance and investor behavior. Additionally, he explores the effects of borrower country characteristics, such as financial systems and corporate governance types, on the spread of syndicated loans. Prof. Moutinho’s research seeks to bridge theoretical frameworks and practical applications, contributing insights into risk management, financial decision-making, and corporate strategies. He has extensively published in high-impact journals, addressing issues like the stock market implications of major corporate events and the influence of financial systems on global lending practices. His commitment to addressing complex financial phenomena underscores his dedication to advancing knowledge in the field and providing practical solutions for global financial challenges.

Award and Honor

Prof. Dr. Nuno Moutinho has earned significant recognition for his contributions to academia and research in finance and management. His scholarly achievements are highlighted by numerous publications in high-impact, ABS-ranked journals, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to advancing financial knowledge. In addition to his publications, he has received invitations to present his research at esteemed international conferences, showcasing his innovative work on stock market dynamics, corporate finance, and global lending practices. Prof. Moutinho’s dedication to education and research has also been acknowledged through invitations to deliver seminars at renowned institutions across Europe and beyond, such as Hanze University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands and Universidad La Laguna in Spain. As a Chartered Accountant and a respected member of professional associations, his contributions extend beyond academia, reflecting a career marked by excellence, leadership, and a sustained impact on the fields of finance and education.

Conclusion

Nuno Filipe Lopes Moutinho is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly due to his consistent research output in high-impact journals, diverse teaching portfolio, and international academic contributions. To further enhance his candidacy, he could focus on securing research funding, expanding his publication scope, and engaging more with interdisciplinary and collaborative projects.

Publications Top Noted

  • Stock-Term Market Impact of Major Cyber-Attacks: Evidence for the Ten Most Exposed Insurance Firms to Cyber Risk
    Authors: AM Martins, N Moutinho
    Year: 2025
    Citation: Not available (new publication).
  • The Effect of the Evergrande Bankruptcy on Chinese Real Estate Listed Firms
    Authors: AM Martins, N Moutinho
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Not available (new publication).
  • Stock Market Effects of Corporate Malpractices and Misconduct: Evidence from the Short-Seller Hindenburg
    Authors: B Albuquerque, AM Martins, N Moutinho
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Not available (new publication).
  • Entrepreneurial Incentives Among University Students in Georgia and Portugal
    Authors: T Taktakishvili, V Charaia, N Moutinho, JMA Alves
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 1
  • The Impact of Corporate Governance on Financial Performance: Study for Portuguese Hotel Companies
    Authors: C Fonseca, N Moutinho, J Alves
    Year: 2023
    Citation: 1
  • Evolution of Thermal Registers and Earnings: The Case of the Portuguese Market
    Authors: N Moutinho, A Nunes, S Sultana
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Not available.
  • Factors Affecting the Adventure Tourism Development Index: A Worldwide Analysis
    Authors: G Mawarni, N Moutinho, PO Fernandes, A Nunes
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 4
  • Learning by Doing in Financial Auditing with SimEmp Application
    Authors: N Moutinho, D Lisboa, J Alves
    Year: 2022
    Citation: Not available.
  • Firm Performance in Portuguese Outdoor Tourism Industry: The Corporate Governance
    Authors: S Bhattarai, S Baral, N Moutinho, A Nunes, P Fernandes
    Year: 2022
    Citation: Not available.
  • Debt of Hotel Companies: The Impact of Company Characteristics and Crisis Periods
    Authors: B Pereira, J Alves, N Moutinho
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 1
  • The Effect of Borrower Country Financial System and Corporate Governance System Types on the Spread of Syndicated Loans
    Authors: N Moutinho, CF Alves, F Martins
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 10
  • Avaliação de Desempenho Financeiro de Empresas de Alojamento Portuguesas Usando o Modelo FAHP-TOPSIS
    Authors: CML Fonseca, J Alves, N Moutinho
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 1
  • Financial Performance in Portuguese Outdoor Tourism Industry: A Quantitative Research
    Authors: S Baral, S Bhattarai, N Moutinho, A Nunes, PO Fernandes
    Year: 2022
    Citation: Not available.
  • Aprender Fazendo em Auditoria Financeira com a Aplicação SimEmp
    Authors: N Moutinho, D Lisboa, J Alves
    Year: 2022
    Citation: Not available.
  • Do Borrower Country Financial System and Corporate Governance System Types Influence the Spread of Syndicated Loans?
    Authors: N Moutinho, CF Alves, F Martins
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Not available.