Mlungisi Ntombela | Internet of Things (IoT) | Innovative Research Award

Innovative Research Award

Mlungisi Ntombela
Durban University of Technology (DUT), South Africa

Mlungisi Ntombela
Affiliation Durban University of Technology (DUT)
Country South Africa
Scopus ID 57558503600
Documents 14
Citations 194
h-index 5
Subject Area Electrical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Smart Grids, Electric Vehicles, Internet of Things
Event Global Sensor Awards
ORCID 0000-0001-6428-0257

Mlungisi Ntombela is a South African electrical engineer, academic researcher, lecturer, and certified engineering professional whose work bridges industrial engineering practice and advanced academic research. His expertise spans electrical power systems, artificial intelligence applications in smart grids, power system optimization, distributed generation integration, electric vehicles, reliability engineering, and project management. Through a combination of engineering leadership, research innovation, and higher education contributions, he has established a multidisciplinary profile that supports both technological advancement and engineering education.[1]

Abstract

This academic recognition article presents the professional achievements, research contributions, and engineering leadership of Dr. Mlungisi Eric Ntombela. His work integrates industrial engineering practice with advanced research in electrical power systems, smart grids, distributed generation, artificial intelligence optimization algorithms, and electric vehicle integration. His contributions include peer-reviewed publications, project engineering leadership, higher education teaching, and the development of innovative methodologies for power loss reduction and voltage profile enhancement in modern electrical networks.[2]

Keywords

Electrical Engineering, Smart Grids, Artificial Intelligence, Optimization Algorithms, Distributed Generation, Electric Vehicles, Power Systems, Reliability Engineering, Power Quality, Energy Systems, Research Innovation, Engineering Education, Project Engineering, Sustainable Energy.

Introduction

Dr. Ntombela’s career demonstrates a balanced integration of industrial engineering experience and academic scholarship. Holding a Doctor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering and a Government Certificate of Competency (Factories), he has contributed significantly to both utility-scale engineering operations and university-level education. His professional experience includes maintenance engineering, reliability management, risk assessment, project execution, research supervision, and curriculum development. These combined experiences have enabled him to address practical engineering challenges while advancing scientific knowledge in electrical power systems.[1]

Research Profile

The research activities of Dr. Ntombela focus primarily on electrical power system optimization, artificial intelligence applications in smart grids, distributed generation placement, electric vehicle integration, power quality improvement, and sustainable energy management. His academic work has investigated advanced hybrid optimization algorithms capable of minimizing network losses while improving voltage stability and operational efficiency in electrical distribution systems.[3]

Beyond research, he actively contributes to engineering education through lecturing, laboratory instruction, curriculum modernization aligned with Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies, and mentoring of engineering students. His interdisciplinary perspective supports the integration of industry-driven solutions within academic environments.[4]

Research Contributions

  • Development and evaluation of optimization techniques for power network reconfiguration.
  • Research on distributed generation sizing and placement for power loss minimization.
  • Application of artificial intelligence hybrid algorithms in smart grid optimization.
  • Comprehensive studies on electric vehicle integration into modern power systems.
  • Voltage profile improvement methodologies for sustainable electricity networks.
  • Contributions to battery electric vehicle drive circuit technologies and operational analysis.
  • Research on renewable energy distributed generation and smart grid interoperability.
  • Engineering project management and reliability-centered maintenance methodologies.

Publications

  • Review of Optimization Techniques for Power Network Reconfiguration (SAUPEC 2022).
  • Power Loss Minimization and Voltage Profile Improvement by Distributed Generation Sizing and Placement (PowerAfrica 2022).
  • Power Loss Minimization and Voltage Profile Improvement by System Reconfiguration, DG Sizing, and Placement. Computation, 2022.
  • Artificial Intelligent Hybrid Algorithm Used for System Reconfiguration to Minimize Power Losses in the Distribution System.
  • Load Profile and Load Flow Analysis for a Grid System with Electric Vehicles Using a Hybrid Optimization Algorithm. Sustainability, 2023.
  • Reduction of Power Losses and Voltage Profile Improvement in a Smart Grid Incorporated with Electric Vehicles. Sustainability, 2023.
  • A Comprehensive Review of the Incorporation of Electric Vehicles and Renewable Energy Distributed Generation Regarding Smart Grids. World Electric Vehicle Journal, 2023.
  • A Comprehensive Review for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) Drive Circuits Technology, Operations, and Challenges. World Electric Vehicle Journal, 2023.

Research Impact

The research contributions of Dr. Ntombela address critical challenges associated with energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, electrical network optimization, and transportation electrification. His published studies provide analytical frameworks and computational techniques that support the development of resilient and sustainable power systems. These contributions are particularly relevant to emerging smart grid infrastructures and the increasing adoption of electric mobility technologies worldwide.[5]

In addition to scholarly outputs, his industrial experience in project engineering, risk-based inspection, reliability-centered maintenance, and operational management provides practical relevance to his research, strengthening the applicability of his findings in real-world engineering environments.[1]

Award Suitability

Dr. Mlungisi Eric Ntombela demonstrates strong suitability for recognition within engineering, energy systems, smart grid technologies, and applied artificial intelligence award categories. His profile combines advanced academic qualifications, impactful scientific publications, industrial engineering leadership, teaching excellence, and interdisciplinary innovation. His contributions align closely with the objectives of awards recognizing research excellence, technological innovation, sustainability, engineering leadership, and emerging contributions to future energy systems.[2]

Conclusion

Dr. Mlungisi Eric Ntombela represents a new generation of engineering professionals whose expertise spans industry practice, academic scholarship, and technological innovation. Through his work in electrical engineering, artificial intelligence, smart grids, and electric vehicle integration, he has contributed to advancing knowledge while addressing practical challenges facing modern energy systems. His combination of research productivity, engineering leadership, and educational service positions him as a notable contributor within the fields of electrical engineering and sustainable energy development.

References

  1. Ntombela, M. E. Professional Curriculum Vitae and Academic Profile.
  2. Ntombela, M., Musasa, K., & Leoaneka, M.C. (2022). Review of Optimization Techniques for Power Network Reconfiguration.
    https://doi.org/10.1109/SAUPEC55179.2022.9730628
  3. Ntombela, M., Musasa, K., & Leoaneka, M.C. (2022). Power Loss Minimization and Voltage Profile Improvement by System Reconfiguration, DG Sizing, and Placement.
    https://doi.org/10.3390/computation10100180
  4. Durban University of Technology. Academic Teaching and Research Activities.
  5. Ntombela, M., Musasa, K., & Moloi, K. (2023). A Comprehensive Review of the Incorporation of Electric Vehicles and Renewable Energy Distributed Generation Regarding Smart Grids.
    https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj14070176

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Haining Xiao | Intelligent Manufacturing | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Haining Xiao | Intelligent Manufacturing | Best Researcher Award 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Haining Xiao | Yancheng Institute of Technology | China

Xiao Haining is a dedicated scholar in the field of mechanical and intelligent manufacturing systems, recognized for his strong contributions to multi-robot system optimization and control. He currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Intelligent Manufacturing at Yancheng Institute of Technology, where he leads academic and research initiatives that intersect mechanical engineering and intelligent automation. With a career marked by consistent academic progression, Dr. Xiao has developed a professional identity centered on applied robotics, collaborative automation, and advanced control strategies in intelligent manufacturing environments. His deep-rooted commitment to interdisciplinary integration has helped in shaping emerging technological landscapes and advancing automation practices in industrial settings.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

Summary of Suitability

Dr. Xiao Haining is a highly qualified and dedicated researcher in the field of mechanical engineering, with a focused specialization in the optimization and control of multi-robot systems. His academic background and professional trajectory demonstrate a consistent commitment to advancing intelligent manufacturing technologies.

Education

Xiao Haining began his academic journey by earning a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering from Yancheng Institute of Technology. His pursuit of deeper technical knowledge and research excellence led him to complete a Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics. During his doctoral training, he developed a strong foundation in automation theory, system dynamics, and mechanical design optimization, which would become central to his later research efforts. His education equipped him with both theoretical insights and practical tools essential for solving complex industrial automation challenges, forming the basis for his innovative contributions to multi-robot coordination and control.

Professional Experience

Currently positioned as an Associate Professor at Yancheng Institute of Technology, Dr. Xiao has spent several years in academia where he has blended teaching, mentoring, and research leadership. His role involves the supervision of graduate projects, collaborative research with industry, and active participation in the development of intelligent manufacturing curricula. In his academic career, he has contributed to several collaborative projects in mechanical automation, focusing particularly on multi-robot system configurations and adaptive control techniques. His professional trajectory reflects a balanced commitment to pedagogy and research, with an emphasis on bringing laboratory innovation to industrial applications.

Research Interest

Dr. Xiao’s primary research interest lies in the optimization and control of multi-robot systems within intelligent manufacturing frameworks. His work addresses the growing demand for efficient robotic collaboration, path planning, and task allocation in automated production lines. He investigates control algorithms, coordination protocols, and optimization models that enhance the performance and reliability of robot collectives operating in dynamic environments. His approach is multidisciplinary, integrating elements of control theory, machine learning, and mechanical system design. This focus positions his work at the intersection of robotics, artificial intelligence, and industrial automation, contributing to the development of smarter and more adaptable manufacturing processes.

Awards

Throughout his academic career, Dr. Xiao has received multiple recognitions for excellence in research and teaching. He has been honored with institutional awards for outstanding faculty performance, and his contributions to collaborative robotics have been acknowledged in provincial-level innovation competitions. His leadership in robotics research has also been highlighted through invitations to speak at national technical forums and his role in funded research projects aimed at advancing smart manufacturing practices.

Publication Top Notes

Task Travel Time Prediction Method Based on IMA-SURBF for Task Dispatching of Heterogeneous AGV System

Conclusion

Dr. Xiao Haining exemplifies academic excellence and innovation in the field of intelligent manufacturing and robotics. His balanced contribution to research, teaching, and technological development marks him as a significant figure in advancing multi-robot systems and control strategies. With a solid educational background, strong publication record, and recognized awards, he continues to drive impactful research that addresses practical challenges in automated manufacturing systems. His career demonstrates a sustained commitment to improving robotic collaboration and adaptability in complex environments, making him a deserving candidate for distinguished academic recognition.

Mr. Xi Tianyu | Automation Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Xi Tianyu | Automation Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Xi Tianyu, Northeastern University, China

Dr. Xi Tianyu is a professor and doctoral supervisor at the Northeastern University School of Architecture, specializing in sustainable architecture, architectural technology, and green living. He has led over 10 national and provincial research projects, published more than 50 papers, and holds three authorized patents. He has contributed to national and industry standards, authored textbooks, and received multiple awards for teaching and research excellence. Dr. Xi is actively involved in several professional committees, including the China Urban Science Research Association and the China Engineering Construction Standardization Association, and is a member of international organizations such as ISIAQ and AIJ.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xi Tianyu is a highly accomplished researcher in sustainable architecture, with extensive contributions to green building technologies, energy conservation, and thermal comfort optimization. His leadership in over 10 national and provincial research projects, along with 50+ published papers and multiple patents, demonstrates his strong research impact. His involvement in national standards development, textbook authorship, and architectural design competitions further highlights his influence in academia and industry. Given his outstanding research, academic leadership, and numerous accolades, Dr. Xi Tianyu is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

📚 Education & Work Experience

🎓 Doctor of Engineering
🏫 Professor & Doctoral Supervisor at Northeastern University School of Architecture

🏆 Achievements

🔬 Led 10+ research projects (national, provincial, and local), including:

  • 🇨🇳 National Natural Science Foundation Key Project sub-projects
  • 🎯 National Natural Science Foundation Youth Fund

📄 Published 50+ research papers
📜 3 authorized patents
📘 Co-authored 5 national & industry standards
📖 Contributed to 2 textbooks & authored 1 book (funded by National Publishing Fund)

🎨 Guided 10+ international & domestic architectural design competitions, winning:
🥇 Gu Yu Cup First Prize
🏅 AIM Cup Special Prize
🥉 China Habitat Environment Design Annual Award Bronze Award (2023)

🎖️ Awards & Honors

🏆 Northeastern University Teaching Achievement Awards:

  • 🥇 First Prize (2024)
  • 🥈 Second Prize (2022)
    🎓 Excellent Teaching Plan Award
    📜 Excellent Homework Guide Award
    📖 Excellent Paper Award (Chinese Higher Education Architecture Teaching Guidance Committee)

Publication Top Notes:

Analysis of the Characteristics of Heat Island Intensity Based on Local Climate Zones in the Transitional Season of Shenyang

 

Optimization of Residential Indoor Thermal Environment by Passive Design and Mechanical Ventilation in Tropical Savanna Climate Zone in Nigeria, Africa

 

A preliminary study of multidimensional semantic evaluation of outdoor thermal comfort in Chinese

 

Preliminary Research on Outdoor Thermal Comfort Evaluation in Severe Cold Regions by Machine Learning

A Review of Thermal Comfort Evaluation and Improvement in Urban Outdoor Spaces

Mr. Mehrdad Shoeibi | Smart Network | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Mehrdad Shoeibi | Smart Network | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Mehrdad Shoeibi, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, United States

Mehrdad Shoeibi is an AI specialist and researcher with expertise in industrial engineering, machine learning, and generative AI, particularly in healthcare, data analytics, and optimization. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Business Administration and Management (IT) at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and serves as a Research Assistant for the SmartWAnDS Project, focusing on AI applications in chronic wound analysis. He holds an M.Sc. in Industrial Engineering from the Institute for Management and Planning Studies (IMPS) and a B.Sc. from Islamic Azad University (IAU). Mehrdad has extensive experience in project control management and optimization, having worked in the construction and engineering industries. His technical skills include Python, AI/ML frameworks, and various business intelligence and project management tools.

Professional Profile:

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

SCOPUS

ORCID

Suitability of Mehrdad Shoeibi for the Best Researcher Award

Mehrdad Shoeibi demonstrates a strong research background in Generative AI, Machine Learning, Healthcare Applications, and Optimization, which aligns with cutting-edge advancements in AI. His ongoing Ph.D. at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and previous degrees in Industrial Engineering establish a solid academic foundation.

🎓 Education

  • Doctor of Philosophy, Business Administration and Management (IT) (2023 – Present)
    📍 Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) | GPA: 3.80
  • Master of Science, Industrial Engineering (2018 – 2021)
    📍 Institute for Management and Planning Studies (IMPS) | GPA: 3.41/4
  • Bachelor of Science, Industrial Engineering (2010 – 2014)
    📍 Islamic Azad University (IAU) | GPA: 3.11/4

💼 Work Experience

Academic & Research Experience

  • Research Assistant – SmartWAnDS Project, WPI (Aug 2023 – Present)
    🔹 Conducting systematic reviews on generative AI applications in healthcare.
    🔹 Developing tools for chronic wound image annotation and classification.
  • Teaching Assistant – Game Theory (Feb 2021 – Jun 2021)
    📍 Institute for Management and Planning Studies (IMPS)
  • Teaching Assistant – Energy Pricing (Feb 2019 – Jun 2019)
    📍 Institute for Management and Planning Studies (IMPS)

Industry Experience

  • Project Control Manager – Aalam Architectural & Structural Consultants (Dec 2019 – Apr 2023)
    🔹 Managed BIM implementation.
    🔹 Coordinated interdisciplinary efforts.
    🔹 Cost estimation and project scheduling.
    🔹 Process management and optimization.
  • Project Control Specialist – Payasazeh Pasargad (Jun 2018 – Dec 2019)
    🔹 Provided value engineering recommendations.
    🔹 Coordinated construction activities.
    🔹 Prepared project progress reports.
  • Project Control Engineer – Aalam Architectural & Structural Consultants (Jan 2013 – Jul 2015)

🏆 Achievements, Awards & Honors

  • 📜 Published research in Generative AI applications in healthcare.
  • 🏅 Key contributor to the SmartWAnDS Project at WPI.
  • 🎖 Expertise in machine learning, optimization, and AI-driven healthcare solutions.
  • 🏆 Experience in business intelligence and operations research.

Publication Top Notes:

Moving toward resiliency in health supply chain

CITED:8

A Novel Six-Dimensional Chimp Optimization Algorithm—Deep Reinforcement Learning-Based Optimization Scheme for Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface-Assisted Energy Harvesting in …

CITED:1

Improved IChOA-Based Reinforcement Learning for Secrecy Rate Optimization in Smart Grid Communications.

CITED:1

Energy-Efficient and Secure Double RIS-Aided Wireless Sensor Networks: A QoS-Aware Fuzzy Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach

CITED:0

5DGWO-GAN: A Novel Five-Dimensional Gray Wolf Optimizer for Generative Adversarial Network-Enabled Intrusion Detection in IoT Systems.

CITED:0

 

 

Mr. Joel Adams | Automation | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Joel Adams | Automation | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Joel Adams, Florida International University, United States

Joel Adams is a robotics researcher and Ph.D. candidate in Mechanical Engineering at Florida International University, specializing in autonomous mobile and manipulator systems. With extensive experience in radiological surveillance, autonomous mission planning, and multi-robot coordination, he has developed innovative solutions integrating sensor technologies such as LiDAR, depth cameras, and IMUs. His expertise includes robotics middleware (ROS1, ROS2), simulation tools (Gazebo, PyBullet), and advanced programming in C++, Python, and MATLAB. As a Research Assistant at the Applied Research Center since 2019, he has contributed to cutting-edge projects in autonomous system development, multi-robot collaboration, and real-world testing of robotic platforms.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Joel Adams appears to be a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly if the award recognizes contributions in robotics, autonomous systems, and applied research in radiological surveillance. His work aligns well with advanced robotics, AI-driven mission planning, and real-world applications in nuclear site monitoring.

🎓 Education

  • Florida International University
    • Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (Expected Summer 2025) 🎯 (GPA: 3.87)
    • Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (Summer 2024) 🛠️ (GPA: 3.87)
    • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (Honors College) (Fall 2019) 🏅 (GPA: 3.72)
  • Miami Dade College
    • Associate in Arts Degree (Highest Honors) (Summer 2015) 🏆 (GPA: 3.95)

💼 Work Experience

  • Applied Research Center, Florida International University (March 2019 – Present)
    Research Assistant
    • 🚀 Developed autonomous systems for radiological surveillance in nuclear sites, integrating LiDAR, depth cameras, and IMUs.
    • 🧠 Designed multi-robot mission planning solutions using network bridges and behavior-tree-based task allocation.
    • 🛠️ Conducted testing in simulation (Gazebo, PyBullet) and real-world robotic platforms for validation.

🏆 Achievements, Awards & Honors

  • 🎖️ Highest Honors Graduate – Miami Dade College
  • 🏅 Honors College Graduate – Florida International University
  • 🤖 Developed autonomous systems for radiological surveillance, enhancing safety in nuclear environments
  • 🏆 Contributed to multi-robot coordination research, advancing mission planning strategies in robotics
  • 🏅 Published research contributions in robotics intelligence and autonomous system optimization

Publication Top Notes:

A Behavioral Robotics Approach to Radiation Mapping Using Adaptive Sampling

Mr. Foad Zahedi | Digital Twin Awards | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Foad Zahedi | Digital Twin Awards | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Foad Zahedi, Washington State University, Iran

Foad Zahedi is a seasoned Procurement Director with over 18 years of comprehensive experience in procurement management, technical management, and contract management across a diverse range of projects, including multipurpose complexes, dams, roads, tunnels, and industrial structures. Based in Tehran, Iran, he has successfully led procurement and purchase engineering efforts to ensure optimal logistics, quality, and cost-effectiveness. Foad’s expertise encompasses tender management, contract oversight, and project management, where he skillfully navigates the complexities of EPC, PC, and E projects from both the employer and contractor perspectives. He holds a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering (Construction Management) and another Master’s in Civil Engineering (Marine Structures Engineering) from Islamic Azad University, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. A certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and a Professional Engineer, Foad is proficient in areas such as cost estimation, value engineering, and building information modeling. His strategic insights and consultancy roles for boards and CEOs have been pivotal in aligning project goals with organizational objectives.

Professional Profile:

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

Research for Best Researcher Award – Foad Zahedi

Profile Overview: Foad Zahedi has over 18 years of extensive experience in procurement and project management across a variety of large-scale civil engineering projects, including multipurpose complexes, dams, and tunnels. His diverse skill set encompasses technical management, contract management, and procurement engineering, showcasing his ability to lead complex projects effectively.

Education 🎓

  • M.S. Civil Engineering (Construction Management)
    Islamic Azad University of Central Tehran Branch, Tehran, IR
    GPA: 3.53 | Year: 2020
  • M.S. Civil Engineering (Marine Structures Engineering)
    Islamic Azad University of Science and Research Branch, Tehran, IR
    GPA: 3.72 | Year: 2016
  • B.S. Civil Engineering
    Islamic Azad University of Shahr-e-kord Branch, Shahrekord, IR
    Year: 2004

Work Experience 💼

  • Procurement Director
    Iran Mall, Tehran, Iran
    Years: 20XX – Present

    • Led procurement and purchase engineering management for various complex projects, ensuring high quality and timely logistics support.
    • Managed the technical office, handling invoices, quantity surveying, and as-built drawings in EPC, PC, and E projects.
    • Conducted national and international tenders, preparing comprehensive technical and financial submissions.
    • Oversaw contract management in diverse roles (Employer, Contractor, Consultant) for EPC, PC, and E projects.
    • Provided consultancy to boards and CEOs, developing strategic plans to achieve project goals.

Achievements 🌟

  • Successfully managed procurement for multiple large-scale projects, including multipurpose complexes, dams, and industrial structures.
  • Developed effective strategies for cost estimation and value engineering, resulting in significant savings for projects.
  • Implemented advanced Building Information Modelling (BIM) and soil-structure interaction modelling techniques to enhance project outcomes.

Awards and Honors 🏆

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
    Licensure #: 3203610 | Year: 2022
  • Professional Engineer (Grade 2: Supervision)
    Licensure #: 17-31-12174 | Year: 2014
  • Professional Engineer (Grade 1: Construction)

Publication Top Notes:

Global BIM Adoption Movements and Challenges: An Extensive Literature Review
Development of a BIM Implementation Roadmap: The Case of Iran
Robot-BIM integration for underground canals life-cycle management
Digital Twins in the Sustainable Construction Industry
BIM Implementation for PMBOK Enhancement in the Construction Industry

Ms. Shaimaa Elrefaay | Tecnology based Interventions | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Shaimaa Elrefaay | Tecnology based Interventions | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Shaimaa Elrefaay, UCSF, United States

Shaimaa Elrefaay is a dedicated nursing scholar currently pursuing her Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). With a rich academic background spanning from her Bachelor’s in Nursing to her Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Tanta University in Egypt, Shaimaa has consistently demonstrated her commitment to advancing the field of nursing. Her research interests primarily focus on stress, depression, and mental health, particularly among vulnerable populations like women and those at risk for mental health issues. She has been actively involved in various research projects, including investigating the biological context of depression during pregnancy and exploring the impact of adverse childhood events on infant mental health outcomes. Shaimaa’s dedication to her field is evident through her numerous academic awards, fellowships, and research experiences, all of which contribute to her growing expertise and potential for significant contributions to the nursing profession.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Orcid

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

  • Current: University of California San Francisco
    Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science
    CO-Advisors: Chen-Juy Lin, PhD, RN, CNS, FAAN & Sandra Weiss, PhD, RN, FAAN
    Anticipated graduation: 2024
  • 2018-2020: University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, School of Nursing
    Research and Visiting Scholar
    Advisor: Victoria Jarette, PhD, PMHCNS/NP-BC, FAANP, FAAN
  • 2015: Tanta University, School of Nursing, Egypt
    Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
    Thesis: Effect of an educational program based on coping strategies enhancement (CSE) on the dimension of auditory hallucinations as a psychotic symptom
    Supervisor: Hala Elsayas, RN, MSN, PhD

ACADEMIC AWARDS AND FELLOWSHIPS

  • January 2024: Kaiser Permanente Deloras Jones RN award for doctoral program education-related expenses
  • October 2023 – September 2024: Fellowship from the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost (EVCP) to support graduate PhD student proposals
  • September 2023 – May 2024: Leroy and Eva Hallburg Endowed School of Nursing scholarship for PhD students specializing in nursing care of people with chronic illnesses
  • November 2023: UCSF School of Nursing PhD Dissertation Support Award

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Shaimaa’s research interests focus on stress, depression, and mental health, particularly among vulnerable populations such as women and those at risk for mental health issues. She is passionate about exploring the intersection of genomics and environmental stressors in understanding mental health phenotypes among susceptible populations.

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

  • September 2020-Present: Research residency at UCSF School of Nursing, member of Dr. Weiss Stress and Depression Lab
  • November 2023-July 2024: Collaboration in Research Projects with Dr. Christina Kenny and Dr. Jill Esquivel, funded by UCSF Leroy and Eva Hallburg
  • September 2021: Research Residency as part of the Dr. Park Depression Lab
  • May 2011 – March 2015: Research Assistant, Tanta University, Nursing School
  • May 2013-October 2015: Master’s thesis research with Dr. Hala Elsayas

Shaimaa Elrefaay is dedicated to advancing nursing science and improving mental health outcomes through her research and academic endeavors. 📚💡

Publications Notes:📄

Midwives’ experience of telehealth and remote care: a systematic mixed methods review

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Depression The Mediating Role of Resilience and Emotional Regulation

Cortisol Regulation among Women Who Experience Suicidal Ideation during Pregnancy

Erratum to “Non-pharmacological interventions for depression among survivors of adverse childhood experiences: A meta-analysis” [J. Behav. Cogn. Therapy 31(4) (2021) 349–362, (S2589979121000147), (10.1016/j.jbct.2021.05.001)]

Non-pharmacological interventions for depression among survivors of adverse childhood experiences: A meta-analysis