Lucian-Ionel Cioca | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Lucian-Ionel Cioca | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Lucian-Ionel Cioca at Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Romania

Prof. Dr. Lucian-Ionel CIOCA 🇷🇴 is a distinguished academic and research leader in the fields of Engineering and Management, with more than three decades of experience in higher education, research, and public service. He currently serves as a Full Professor, Doctoral Advisor, and Director of multiple postgraduate programs at Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Romania. His contributions span across academic teaching, research coordination, quality assurance, curriculum design, and institutional leadership. Prof. CIOCA is also known for his national-level advisory roles in Romania’s ministries of education, research, labor, and innovation. His expertise and leadership have significantly influenced the development of occupational safety, higher education reform, and sustainable development practices in Eastern Europe. A dedicated mentor, policy advisor, and project manager, he has led numerous national and international research initiatives, including EU-funded Erasmus+ and PN-III programs. Through his work, he has impacted thousands of students, researchers, and policymakers.

Professional Profile 

 

Education

Prof. CIOCA’s academic path reflects a commitment to continuous learning and excellence. He holds a Ph.D. in Engineering and Management and has acquired advanced training in Higher Education Management, Quality Systems, and Leadership. His formal educational trajectory began with engineering degrees and extended through various postgraduate certifications, including programs at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies and Spiru Haret University. Notable certifications include the Professional Skills Certificate in Higher Education Management, a Graduation Certificate in Leadership Training, and a Quality Systems Manager credential. This rich educational foundation has equipped him with interdisciplinary insight—combining technology, safety, organizational strategy, and innovation. 🎓📖🛠️ His strong theoretical base supports his vast teaching and research capabilities, allowing him to excel in academia, industry collaboration, and public sector policy advisory roles.

Professional Experience

Prof. CIOCA’s career spans over 30 years in academia, research, project management, and public service. Since 1994, he has held multiple roles at Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, evolving from an engineer and teaching assistant to a full professor and doctoral supervisor. He has directed or coordinated dozens of research and educational projects funded by EU bodies and Romanian ministries. His leadership roles include: President of the Ardeleana Academy Foundation, Project Manager for bio-surfactant research, evaluator for ARACIS, and national committee member for doctoral title validation (CNATDCU). 🏛️💡 As a seasoned educator, he has taught courses in ergonomics, management, and occupational safety, and supervised postgraduate and doctoral research. His influence extends beyond the university, participating in national councils, labor safety committees, and research evaluation panels. He is also active in lifelong learning, career development, and curriculum modernization across multiple sectors.

Research Interests

Prof. CIOCA’s research interests are multidisciplinary and closely aligned with pressing societal needs. His core focus areas include Occupational Health and Safety, Engineering Management, Industrial Ergonomics, Risk Assessment, Sustainable Production Systems, and Educational Innovation. 🔍🧠 His work explores the interface between human systems and industrial environments—improving safety, performance, and sustainability. Recent interests include the conversion of food waste into bio-surfactants and the application of blended learning tools for sustainable engineering education. Prof. CIOCA’s research is practical, policy-oriented, and deeply impactful, often leading to real-world applications, strategic frameworks, and technological innovation. He emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of digital tools, systems thinking, and community inclusion in his projects. Through participation in both national and international programs, his research consistently addresses global challenges in health, education, and environment.

Research Skills

Prof. CIOCA possesses an exceptional skill set that bridges theoretical analysis and applied science. His expertise includes quantitative research methods, multi-criteria decision-making, project management, impact evaluation, and policy development. 🧑‍🔬📈 He is highly skilled in coordinating research consortia, securing competitive funding, drafting technical documentation, and leading interdisciplinary teams. As a doctoral advisor, he applies rigorous scientific methodology to guide Ph.D. candidates through complex projects. His capacity for grant writing, statistical modeling, scientific communication, and systemic evaluation has made him a trusted evaluator and reviewer for national and European research agencies. He is also proficient in developing e-learning tools, digital frameworks for education, and sustainable engineering solutions. His ability to align research outcomes with social, educational, and industrial objectives makes his scientific work both relevant and transformative.

Awards and Honors

Prof. CIOCA has received numerous recognitions for his excellence in teaching, research, and public service. His honors include appointments to Romanian national advisory councils for education and research, as well as invitations to serve as a project evaluator for the National Council for Scientific Research (CNCSIS) and Ministry of Research and Innovation. 🎖️📜 His leadership roles in policy-making committees, such as CCCDI and CNATDCU, further reflect national acknowledgment of his scholarly integrity and expertise. While his CV highlights significant contributions, further detail on specific academic or international research awards would amplify his global stature. Nevertheless, his institutional appointments, high-level responsibilities, and long-standing advisory roles serve as indirect honors that signify sustained excellence, trust, and academic impact. His work in bridging science and society through education, safety, and sustainability initiatives remains highly commendable.

Conclusion

Prof. Lucian-Ionel CIOCA is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, especially from a national and institutional research leadership perspective. His contributions to research management, doctoral training, and policy-making are outstanding. However, to strongly secure this award — especially in competitive international settings — it would be beneficial to supplement his portfolio with:

  • A comprehensive list of high-impact publications,

  • Citation metrics (h-index, total citations, etc.), and

  • Documented international collaborations or honors.

If the award also recognizes research leadership, innovation, and multidisciplinary impact, he is an excellent candidate.

Publications Top Noted

  • “Introduction of the circular economy within developing regions: A comparative analysis of advantages and opportunities for waste valorization”

    • 📅 Year: 2019

    • 📊 Citations: 458

  • “Treatment and disposal of tyres: Two EU approaches. A review”

    • 📅 Year: 2015

    • 📊 Citations: 383

  • “Achieving green innovation and sustainable development goals through green knowledge management: Moderating role of organizational green culture”

    • 📅 Year: 2022

    • 📊 Citations: 356

  • “Studies and investigation about the attitude towards sustainable production, consumption and waste generation in line with circular economy in Romania”

    • 📅 Year: 2018

    • 📊 Citations: 157

  • “Sustainable Development and Technological Impact on CO₂ Reducing Conditions in Romania”

    • 📅 Year: 2015

    • 📊 Citations: 112

  • “Factors influencing consumer behavior toward green products: A systematic literature review”

    • 📅 Year: 2022

    • 📊 Citations: 111

  • “Does servant leadership promote emotional intelligence and organizational citizenship behavior among employees? A structural analysis”

    • 📅 Year: 2022

    • 📊 Citations: 101

  • “How supportive are Romanian consumers of the circular economy concept: A survey”

    • 📅 Year: 2016

    • 📊 Citations: 101

  • “Conceptualizing core aspects on circular economy in cities”

    • 📅 Year: 2021

    • 📊 Citations: 92

  • “Occupational accidents assessment by field of activity and investigation model for prevention and control”

    • 📅 Year: 2019

    • 📊 Citations: 91

  • “Rationale and criteria development for risk assessment tool selection in work environments”

    • 📅 Year: 2014

    • 📊 Citations: 90

  • “Explosion and/or fire risk assessment methodology: a common approach, structured for underground coalmine environments”

    • 📅 Year: 2012

    • 📊 Citations: 84

  • “Circular economy and waste to energy”

    • 📅 Year: 2018

    • 📊 Citations: 72

  • “Risk indicators and road accident analysis for the period 2012–2016”

    • 📅 Year: 2017

    • 📊 Citations: 72

  • “Relationship between corporate social responsibility, organizational trust, and corporate reputation for sustainable performance”

    • 📅 Year: 2022

    • 📊 Citations: 68

  • “Sustainable development model for the automotive industry”

    • 📅 Year: 2019

    • 📊 Citations: 68

  • “Consumers in the circular economy: A path analysis of the underlying factors of purchasing behaviour”

    • 📅 Year: 2022

    • 📊 Citations: 66

  • “Selective collection quality index for municipal solid waste management”

    • 📅 Year: 2018

    • 📊 Citations: 64

  • “Good practices and actions for sustainable municipal solid waste management in the tourist sector”

    • 📅 Year: 2018

    • 📊 Citations: 63

  • “Optimizing the methodology of characterization of municipal solid waste in EU under a circular economy perspective”

    • 📅 Year: 2017

    • 📊 Citations: 63

Jieshi Tang | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr at Chinese Academy of Agriculture Science, China

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang is an emerging researcher with interdisciplinary expertise in plant systematics, ecological modeling, and invasive species biology. Over the past five years, he has contributed to ten peer-reviewed publications, including in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports and Frontiers in Immunology, with a cumulative citation count exceeding 130 and an H-index of 6. His research highlights include modeling the distribution of invasive species, studying plant genetic diversity, and participating in collaborative vaccine development studies. Dr. Tang has also been an active peer reviewer for leading journals, reflecting his growing role in the academic community. While many of his publications are co-authored, his contributions to diverse, globally relevant topics underscore his collaborative spirit and scientific potential. Dr. Tang’s career trajectory indicates strong promise for future leadership in research, making him a notable figure among early-career scholars.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang has pursued a rigorous academic path that reflects his dedication to scientific inquiry and interdisciplinary research. He earned his undergraduate degree in biological sciences, laying a strong foundation in plant biology and ecology. He continued with graduate studies, obtaining a Master’s degree with a focus on plant systematics and biodiversity, where he developed skills in molecular phylogenetics and species classification. Dr. Tang later completed his Ph.D. in a related field, concentrating on evolutionary biology and ecological modeling, particularly in understanding plant adaptation and invasion dynamics. His doctoral research combined fieldwork, genetic analysis, and computational modeling, equipping him with a multifaceted research approach. Throughout his academic training, Dr. Tang engaged in collaborative projects, international workshops, and interdisciplinary courses that enhanced his global scientific perspective. His educational background has prepared him well for a career at the intersection of botany, genomics, and environmental science, supporting his contributions as a university educator and researcher.

Professional Experience 💼

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang has accumulated valuable professional experience through his work in academia and collaborative research. Currently serving as a faculty member, he is actively involved in teaching, supervising students, and conducting research in plant systematics, ecological modeling, and environmental biology. Dr. Tang has contributed to several interdisciplinary projects focused on genetic diversity, invasive species dynamics, and plant adaptation to climate change. He has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and participated in research teams addressing both regional and global ecological challenges. In addition to his research roles, he has served as a peer reviewer for respected journals such as Scientific Reports and Emerging Microbes & Infections, demonstrating his engagement with the broader scientific community. His experience includes working with diverse teams across institutions and countries, reflecting his collaborative approach and global outlook. Dr. Tang’s professional background highlights his growing influence as a researcher and his potential for leadership in environmental and plant sciences.

Research Interest 🔬

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant systematics, evolutionary biology, ecological modeling, and environmental genomics. He is particularly focused on understanding how plants adapt to changing environments, with an emphasis on genetic diversity, local adaptation, and phylogeography. His work often explores the evolutionary history of plant species in ecologically significant regions such as the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the Hengduan Mountains. Dr. Tang is also deeply interested in the mechanisms underlying plant invasions, studying how genetic admixture and ecological factors contribute to the successful spread of invasive species. In addition, he applies computational tools such as MaxEnt modeling and transcriptomic analysis to predict species distribution and assess vulnerability under climate change scenarios. His research extends to interdisciplinary collaborations, including work on vaccine development and fungal pathogens, reflecting a broad scientific curiosity and a commitment to addressing complex biological questions with practical environmental implications.

Research Skill🔎

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang possesses a diverse set of research skills that support his multidisciplinary work in plant biology, ecology, and environmental genomics. He is proficient in molecular techniques such as DNA sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, and population genetics, which he applies to study genetic diversity and evolutionary patterns in plant species. Dr. Tang is also skilled in bioinformatics and computational tools, including MaxEnt modeling for species distribution, transcriptome analysis, and statistical software for ecological data interpretation. His experience in fieldwork across diverse ecosystems enables him to collect and integrate high-quality environmental and biological data. Additionally, he has demonstrated strong collaborative and analytical skills through participation in multi-author, cross-disciplinary research projects. His ability to synthesize complex data, design experiments, and engage in scientific writing and peer review reflects a well-rounded research profile. These skills make Dr. Tang a capable and innovative researcher, prepared to tackle contemporary challenges in biodiversity and ecosystem studies.

Award and Honor🏆

As of the current available information, Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang has not yet been prominently recognized with major international research awards or academic honors. However, his growing contributions to the fields of plant systematics, ecological modeling, and environmental genomics reflect a promising early-career trajectory that positions him for future recognition. His co-authorship in high-impact publications, such as those in Scientific Reports and Frontiers in Immunology, alongside his active participation as a peer reviewer for reputable journals, demonstrate his increasing visibility and credibility in the scientific community. His involvement in interdisciplinary research and collaborations with international scholars also highlights the quality and relevance of his scientific work. While formal accolades may still be forthcoming, Dr. Tang’s achievements and expanding influence suggest that he is a strong candidate for future honors in environmental and biological research as his career continues to develop.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Tang Jieshi shows growing promise as a researcher with interdisciplinary interests, moderate citation impact, and active peer review contributions. However, based on the metrics alone, he may not yet be the strongest contender for a Best Researcher Award, especially if the award is competitive and meant to recognize leading, internationally recognized scholars with sustained, high-impact contributions and research leadership.

He would be a strong candidate for an “Emerging Researcher” or “Early Career Excellence” award, which better aligns with his current profile.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Li, C., Li, B., Zhao, W., Jiang, J., & Tang, J. (2025). Forest tree breeding under the global environmental change: Challenges and opportunities. Trees, Forests and People. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tfp.2025.100867

  • Tang, J., Ruhsam, M., Feng, S., Milne, R., Yang, H., Kuang, J., Tao, W., Wang, Y., Li, J., Bakhtiyorov, Z., et al. (2025). Genomic vulnerability and local adaptation of an arid tolerant tree species on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Journal of Systematics and Evolution. https://doi.org/10.1111/jse.13179

  • Tang, J., Fan, X., Milne, R. I., Yang, H., Tao, W., Zhang, X., Guo, M., Li, J., & Mao, K. (2024). Across two phylogeographic breaks: Quaternary evolutionary history of a mountain aspen (Populus rotundifolia) in the Hengduan Mountains. Plant Diversity. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pld.2024.03.009

  • Liu, Y., Zhao, D., Wang, Y., Chen, Z., Yang, L., Li, W., Gong, Y., Gan, C., Tang, J., et al. (2022). A vaccine based on the yeast-expressed receptor-binding domain (RBD) elicits broad immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 variants. Frontiers in Immunology, 13, Article 1011484. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2022.1011484

  • Zhao, W., Yang, H., & Tang, J. (2022). Appeal: the protection of ancient tree species around the world, taking qilian juniper (Juniperus przewalskii) as an example. Heliyon, 8(8), e10232. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10232

  • Tang, J. (2022). Multiple introductions and genetic admixture facilitate the successful invasion of Plantago virginica into China. Biological Invasions, 24, 2331–2343. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-022-02773-y

  • Tang, J., Liu, Y., Zhang, C., Han, C., & Shao, H. (2022). Identification of Pathogenic Fungi Causing Leaf Spot of Urtica cannabina and Malus sieversii in the Wild Fruit Forest of Tianshan Mountain, Xinjiang, China. Sains Malaysiana, 51(7), 2101–2108. https://doi.org/10.17576/jsm-2022-5107-07

  • Tang, J., Wang, Y., Xie, S., Li, J., Ju, T., & Mao, K. (2021). Building a reference transcriptome for Juniperus squamata (Cupressaceae) based on single-molecule real-time sequencing. BMC Genomic Data, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12863-021-01013-x

  • Tang, J. (2021). Global potential distribution prediction of Xanthium italicum based on MaxEnt model. Scientific Reports, 11, Article 23456. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-96041-z

  • Tang, J. (2020). Glomus mosseae Promotes Xanthium italicum Invasion. Sains Malaysiana, 49(10), 2439–2444. https://doi.org/10.17576/jsm-2020-4910-08

  • Tang, J. (2020). Genetic diversity and genetic differentiation of invasive weed Xanthium italicum in China. Comptes Rendus Biologies, 343(3), 245–254. https://doi.org/10.5802/crbiol.7

  • Tang, J. (2020). Two phytotoxins isolated from the pathogenic fungus of the invasive weed Xanthium italicum. Chemistry & Biodiversity, 17(5), e2000043. https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.202000043

  • Tang, J. (2019). Allelopathic potential of volatile organic compounds released by Xanthium sibiricum Patrin ex Widder. Allelopathy Journal, 47(2), 123–134. https://doi.org/10.26651/allelo.j/2019-47-2-1234