Jack Ng Kok Wah | Business | Best Innovation Award

Dr. Jack Ng Kok Wah | Business | Best Innovation Award 

Senior Lecturer at Multimedia University Cyberjaya | Malaysia

Dr. Jack Ng Kok Wah is a distinguished academic and innovation-driven scholar currently serving as a Senior Lecturer at Multimedia University, Malaysia, with a professional focus on artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and behavioral science in business transformation. With over three decades of multidisciplinary experience spanning healthcare, finance, education, and tourism, he bridges academic theory with practical applications that advance both industry and society. He holds a Ph.D. in Business from Universiti Malaya-Wales, an MBA in Marketing Management from Nottingham Trent University and a BA (Hons) in Marketing Management from the University of Northumbria at Newcastle. His research emphasizes the integration of AI technologies into marketing and management systems, exploring areas such as AI-assisted healthcare, digital mental health engagement, AI in agriculture, and data-driven consumer behavior. He has published 10 Scopus-indexed documents with an academic influence reflected in 47 citations by 46 documents, a publication count of 10, and an h-index of 3, demonstrating consistent scholarly contribution. Dr. Jack Ng Kok Wah’s portfolio of Q1 and Q2 publications includes studies on AI-driven robotic surgery, digital health, agricultural sustainability, and AI-powered language learning, signifying his commitment to advancing knowledge that has global reach and societal benefit. His professional journey also includes leadership in curriculum innovation, mentorship, and research supervision at postgraduate levels, contributing to capacity-building in AI-based business education. A certified HRDF trainer and recognized expert in digital strategy, he frequently delivers keynote addresses and training sessions on AI-powered marketing and academic writing. His excellence has been acknowledged with multiple distinctions, including the Best Researcher Award and inclusion in Britishpedia: Successful People in Malaysia & Singapore. Dr. Jack Ng Kok Wah’s research ethos is driven by innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the pursuit of solutions that merge technology with human-centric progress. His ongoing work continues to shape the future of digital transformation, fostering impactful academic research and industrial partnerships that promote sustainable, intelligent business ecosystems.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar | Linkedin

Fuetured Publications:

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). The rise of robotics and AI-assisted surgery in modern healthcare. Journal of Robotic Surgery, 19, Article 311.

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). Revolutionizing surgery: AI and robotics for precision, risk reduction, and innovation. Journal of Robotic Surgery, 19(47).

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). Revolutionizing e-health: The transformative role of AI-powered hybrid chatbots in healthcare solutions. Frontiers in Public Health, 13.

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). AI-driven robotic surgery in oncology: Advancing precision, personalization, and patient outcomes. Journal of Robotic Surgery, 19, 382.

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). The robotic revolution in cardiac surgery. Journal of Robotic Surgery, 19(386).

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). The role of AI in transforming agriculture: Toward sustainable growth in an era of climate change. Scientific Culture, 11(2), 45–63.

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). AI-driven 3D and 4D food printing: Innovations for sustainability, personalization, and global applications. Food Reviews International. Advance online publication.

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). Empowering minds: How self-efficacy, self-esteem, and social support drive digital mental health engagement. Frontiers in Public Health, 13.

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). Empowering healthier decisions: The impact of consumer innovativeness on linking perceived benefits with protective health behaviors through digital marketing in the healthcare sector. International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Marketing. Advance online publication.

Ng Kok Wah, J. (2025). Artificial intelligence in language learning: A systematic review of personalization and learner engagement. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 7(9), 327–341.

Tom Schimanski | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Tom Schimanski | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award  

Student at Universität Regensburg | Germany

Mr. Tom Schimanski is an emerging researcher at Universität Regensburg whose work bridges the intersection of medicine, surgery and biomedical innovation. His academic background reflects an early commitment to scientific rigor and medical advancement, culminating in advanced studies and a doctoral research focus within the Department of Plastic, Hand, and Reconstructive Surgery. Building upon a foundation of clinical training, he has developed extensive expertise in translational medicine, integrating laboratory research with real-world surgical applications. His scholarly engagement is marked by active participation in experimental studies addressing tissue regeneration, cellular responses, and cryopreservation methodologies for adipose and connective tissues. Mr. Tom Schimanski’s contributions to the scientific community are evident through his publications in internationally indexed journals such as Cells, where his research explores mechanisms of ferroptosis, biocompatibility of anesthetics, exosome mediated cellular communication, and innovative imaging approaches like multispectral optoacoustic tomography. With 3 published documents, 1 citation, and an h-index of 1, he exemplifies the diligence and precision of a young scientist dedicated to building a lasting impact in medical science. His ongoing collaborations with institutions such as Helmholtz Zentrum München further strengthen his multidisciplinary approach, combining cellular biology, materials science, and reconstructive medicine. Mr. Tom Schimanski’s research interests encompass tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, biomaterials development, and translational surgery, focusing on developing clinically viable strategies to enhance wound healing and graft preservation. His work also reflects a broader vision for integrating biotechnological innovations into surgical practice, fostering advancements that align patient safety with scientific discovery. Through his deep engagement in both experimental and clinical contexts, he continues to advance methodologies that could redefine regenerative outcomes and improve the sustainability of reconstructive procedures. With a growing research record and a strong foundation in evidence-based medicine, Mr. Tom Schimanski represents a new generation of clinician-scientists whose contributions are shaping the evolving landscape of biomedical research and surgical innovation. His pursuit of excellence underscores a commitment to translating science into tangible medical progress, marking him as a promising and impactful figure in contemporary medical research.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Schimanski, T., Loucas, R., Loucas, M., Brébant, V., Anker, A., Klein, S., Diesch, S. T., Pagani, A., & Prantl, L. (2025). Histological and immunohistochemical characteristics of mechanically processed adipose tissue A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cells, 14(21), 1664.

Schimanski, T., Prantl, L., Eigenberger, A., Felthaus, O., Loucas, R., Utpatel, K., & Steer, K. (2025). CELTPLUS fat increases the metabolic activity as well as the SVF-yield significantly when compared to CELT fat, even after cryopreservation with DMSO. Cells, 14(16), 1270.

Schimanski, T., Loucas, R., Loucas, M., Felthaus, O., Brébant, V., Klein, S., Anker, A., Frank, K., Siegmund, A., Pagani, A., & Prantl, L. (2025). Histology and immunohistochemistry of adipose tissue: A scoping review on staining methods and their informative value. Cells, 14(12), 898.

Eigenberger, A., Felthaus, O., Bartsch, A., Schimanski, T., Utpatel, K., & Prantl, L. (2025). The influence of sedimentation on the composition of the lipoaspirate and the effects on further mechanical processing. Cells, 14(8), 601.

Rodrigo Zarate Torres | Environmental Science | Innovative Research Award

Dr.Rodrigo Zarate Torres | Environmental Science | Innovative Research Award 

Profesor Investigador at Colegio de Estudios Superiores de Administración| Colombia

Dr. Rodrigo Zárate Torres is a distinguished academic leader, educator, and researcher whose work bridges leadership, emotional intelligence, sustainability, and organizational innovation. He currently serves in an academic leadership capacity at the Colegio de Estudios Superiores de Administración (CESA) in Colombia, where he contributes to the advancement of management education and research. He holds a Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) with a focus on Global Management, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing and International Business, and a degree in Industrial Engineering. Throughout his career, Dr. Rodrigo Zárate Torres has held key academic and administrative positions, including director, dean, and researcher, in institutions recognized for academic excellence. His extensive experience encompasses strategic leadership development, higher education accreditation, and organizational consulting, with contributions to both local and international academic collaborations. His research, widely cited across the global scholarly community, includes 18 publications, 118 citations by 110 documents, and an h-index of 7, demonstrating the quality and impact of his work. Dr. Rodrigo Zárate Torres’s scholarly interests focus on the intersections of emotional intelligence, leadership behavior, organizational culture, and sustainable management, emphasizing how human factors drive innovation and performance in diverse institutional contexts. He has published numerous studies in high-impact journals, exploring psychometric validation, leadership styles, and the role of emotional and spiritual intelligence in organizational success. Recognized as a “Senior Researcher” by Colciencias, he has also received awards for excellence in teaching and research, including international recognition for his contributions to project management and academic development. His active involvement in editorial boards, research groups, and professional associations has further enhanced his influence in shaping management education and leadership scholarship in Latin America and beyond. Dr. Rodrigo Zárate Torres’s academic vision integrates strategic foresight, ethical leadership, and emotional competence as foundational elements of sustainable development and institutional excellence. His enduring dedication to research, mentorship, and leadership continues to inspire innovation and social responsibility within academia and the broader organizational landscape.

Featured Publications:

  • Zárate-Torres, R. A., & Matviuk, S. (2012). Emotional intelligence and leadership practices in Colombian organizations. Cuadernos de Administración, 28(47), 91–104.

  • Acosta-Prado, J. C., Zárate-Torres, R. A., & Pautt Torres, G. M. (2015). Characterization of emotional intelligence in Colombian managers. Universitas Psychologica, 14(3), 815–832.

  • Zárate-Torres, R. A., Rey-Sarmiento, C. F., & Acosta-Prado, J. C. (2022). Impact of leadership practices on manager’s pathways to goal attainment: The mediating effect of emotional intelligence. International Journal of Organizational Analysis,

  • Zárate-Torres, R. A., Rey-Sarmiento, C. F., Acosta-Prado, J. C., Gómez-Cruz, N. A., Rodríguez Castro, D. Y., & Camargo, J. (2025). Influence of leadership on human–artificial intelligence collaboration. Behavioral Sciences, 15(7), 873.

  • Zárate-Torres, R. A., Rey-Sarmiento, C. F., & Acosta-Prado, J. C. (2025). Social impact of happiness on transformational leadership in students from Colombian universities. Frontiers in Psychology.

  • Zárate-Torres, R. A. (2023). How good is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator for predicting leadership? Frontiers in Psychology,

  • Zárate-Torres, R. A., Acosta-Prado, J. C., & Garzón Catrillón, M. A. (2016). Attributes and emotional intelligence in Colombian followers. Revista Espacios, 37(25), 18.

 

Luciana Veras de Aquino Figueiroa | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Luciana Veras de Aquino Figueiroa | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

PhD at Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region | Brazil

Dr. Luciana Veras de Aquino Figueiroa is a dedicated veterinary researcher and academic recognized for her interdisciplinary contributions to animal health, pathology, and agricultural sciences. She has built a solid academic foundation with advanced training in Veterinary Medicine, Animal Production, and Clinical Practice for Small Animals, complemented by doctoral research in Animal Science focusing on pathology and environmental toxicology. Her professional experience spans teaching, research, and technical consultancy, with emphasis on animal pathology, aquaculture health, food inspection, and biosafety. Throughout her career, she has contributed to multiple institutional projects and research groups, supporting the development of sustainable animal health management practices in both terrestrial and aquatic systems. Her work integrates applied veterinary pathology with modern diagnostic tools such as histomorphometry, cell culture, and electron microscopy to investigate diseases, environmental contaminants, and food safety risks. She has published several peer-reviewed articles and book chapters addressing topics such as bacterial and viral infections in aquaculture, histopathological alterations caused by pollutants, and quality control in products of animal origin. Dr. Luciana Veras de Aquino Figueiroa’s research interests focus on veterinary pathology, environmental toxicology, animal welfare, and food hygiene, with particular attention to the impacts of endocrine disruptors like bisphenol A on neural and reproductive systems of model organisms. Additionally, she has participated in collaborative studies on parasitic diseases in domestic birds, antimicrobial safety, and biochemical assessments in experimental animal models, contributing to scientific advancement and public health awareness. Beyond research, she has organized and participated in scientific congresses, professional training programs, and technical courses, promoting capacity building in veterinary inspection and animal health monitoring. Her academic and professional endeavors highlight a commitment to integrating veterinary science with environmental sustainability, aiming to improve animal production efficiency and human food safety. Through her rigorous research and collaborative leadership, Dr. Luciana Veras de Aquino Figueiroa continues to contribute to the evolution of agricultural and biological sciences, advancing knowledge that bridges clinical veterinary practice, ecological balance, and technological innovation for a more resilient and sustainable future.

Profle: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Figueirôa, L. V. A., Teófilo, T. S., Batista, J. S., Feijó, F. M. C., & Lima, J. T. A. X. (2024). Clinical and histopathological evidence of Hepatobacter penaei in Litopenaeus vannamei culture with high mortality. Archives of Veterinary Science, 29(3).

Campêlo, M. C. S., Medeiros, J. M. S., Rebouças, L. O. S., Figueirôa, L. V. A., Oliveira, P. V. C., Lima, P. O., & Silva, J. B. A. (2020). Shelf life and consumer preference for sun-dried meat produced with different levels of sodium chloride. Research, Society and Development, 9(10).

Campêlo, M. C. S., Medeiros, J. M. S., Rebouças, L. O. S., Figueirôa, L. V. A., Rocha, M. O. C., Oliveira, P. V. C., Lima, P. O., & Silva, J. B. A. (2020). Shelf life of sun-dried meat through the use of modified atmosphere. Research, Society and Development, 9(9).

Lukas Prantl | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Lukas Prantl | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Applied Stem Cell Research Center at Universität Regensburg | Germany

Prof. Dr. Lukas Prantl is an accomplished academic leader and internationally recognized expert in plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgery, currently serving at the University of Regensburg, Germany. His career reflects a strong blend of clinical innovation, academic excellence, and translational research impact. Educated in medicine and advanced surgical sciences across prestigious European institutions, he holds dual doctoral degrees and a master’s in health business administration, which support his interdisciplinary approach to healthcare leadership. Throughout his professional journey, he has established and directed advanced centers dedicated to plastic, hand, and reconstructive surgery, as well as the Applied Stem Cell Research Center, fostering groundbreaking research in regenerative medicine. His scientific interests focus on adipose-derived stem cells, tissue regeneration, microcirculation, and innovative reconstructive techniques that integrate stem cell technology into clinical applications. Among his notable contributions is the development of the Cell Enriched Lipotransfer method, a pioneering advancement that enhances the success rate of fat grafting and tissue restoration. His prolific academic record includes 412 peer-reviewed publications, 7,550 citations from 6,310 documents, and an h-index of 40, reflecting the global impact and recognition of his research. Beyond his scientific achievements, he has held leadership positions in major national and international surgical societies, contributing to the advancement of standards, education, and ethics in surgery. As an editor and reviewer for leading medical journals and funding bodies, his expertise continues to guide the development of innovative research and surgical techniques worldwide. His commitment to academic mentorship and the integration of evidence-based medicine into practice has shaped new generations of clinicians and researchers. Through his exceptional contributions to clinical excellence, scientific discovery, and institutional leadership, Prof. Dr. Lukas Prantl stands as a driving force in shaping the future of regenerative and reconstructive medicine, continually pushing the boundaries of surgical science and patient-centered innovation.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

  • Chrobot, N., Unbehaun, P., Frank, K., Hartmann, Prantl, L. (2025). Smartphone-based 3D surface imaging: A new frontier in digital breast assessment? Journal of Clinical Medicine.

  • Neuwieser, H., Jami, N. V. S., Meier, Prantl, L. (2025). Interpreting venous and arterial ulcer images through the Grad-CAM lens: Insights and implications in CNN-based wound image classification. Diagnostics.

  • Schimanski, T., Scheel-Platz, Prantl, L. (2025). CELT Fat increases the metabolic activity as well as the SVF-yield significantly when compared to CELT fat, even after cryopreservation with DMSO. Cells.

  • Loucas, R., Loucas, Prantl, L. (2025). Histology and immunohistochemistry of adipose tissue: A scoping review on staining methods and their informative value.

  • Diesch, S., Frank, K., Brebant, Prantl, L. (2025). Subject-reported satisfaction after cell-enriched lipotransfer (CELT) for lip augmentation. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

  • Biermann, N., Eibl, D., Mueller, Prantl, L. (2024). Biomarker-guided acute kidney injury risk assessment under liberal versus restrictive fluid therapy–the prospective-randomized MAYDAY-trial.

  • Zocchi, M.Prantl, L. (2024). Potential benefits of adipose-derived SVF and MSCs to regenerate damaged tissues from alloplastic synthetic materials.

  • Kuehlmann, B., Bonham, C. Gurtner,Prantl, L. (2023). MMP9 as a potential biomarker in human implant-induced fibrotic capsules: A systematic analysis and biomarker study.

  • Knoedler, L., Odenthal, J. F., Prantl, Knoedler, S. A. (2023). Artificial Intelligence-Enabled simulation of gluteal augmentation: A helpful tool in preoperative outcome simulation.

  • Diesch, S., Anders, M., Prantl, Brébant, V. (2023). Factors influencing the shape, size, symmetry and scar of the nipple-areola complex after bilateral reduction mammoplasty.

Segun Ojetunde | Arts and Humanities | Arts and Humanities

Dr.Segun Ojetunde | Arts and Humanities | Arts and Humanities 

Postdoc at University of Johannesburg | South Africa

Dr. Segun Ojetunde is an accomplished scholar and educator whose work bridges the fields of educational evaluation, science pedagogy, and technology-enhanced learning. He holds advanced degrees in Educational Evaluation, including a Ph.D. and a Master’s degree, complemented by a Bachelor’s degree in Biology Education. His academic and research journey has been marked by a dedication to advancing innovative teaching and learning practices that respond to the evolving demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. With professional experience spanning teaching, research, and educational development across several institutions and international projects, Dr. Segun Ojetunde has contributed significantly to the discourse on science education reform, inquiry-based learning, and the integration of digital technologies in education. He has served as a research associate and collaborator on national and international projects funded by organizations such as the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND). His research interests focus on inquiry-based learning, artificial intelligence in education, virtual laboratories, and digital inclusion in science and technology pedagogy. Dr. Segun Ojetunde has published in high-impact international journals, including Research in Science Education, Smart Learning Environments, and the Journal of Pedagogical Research, where his studies explore teacher instructional knowledge, student engagement with educational technologies, and the application of technology acceptance models in education. He has participated in numerous international conferences and contributed to scholarly book chapters addressing critical challenges in education management and digital learning. His academic impact is reflected in his 25 citations by 25 documents, 5 published works, and an h-index of 3, underscoring his growing influence in the global research community. Through his research and professional activities, Dr. Segun Ojetunde continues to promote quality education, digital equity, and evidence-based instructional design. His commitment to improving learning outcomes through educational innovation and data-driven evaluation establishes him as a forward-thinking researcher whose work contributes meaningfully to shaping the future of science and technology education in Africa and beyond.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

  • Ojetunde, S. M., & Ramnarain, U. (2025). Like objects or like subjects? Effects of student–robot interaction (SRI) and mathematical ability on students’ learning outcomes. Smart Learning Environments, 12(1), 9.

  • Ojetunde, S. M., & Ramnarain, U. (2023). Applying 4IRs in education technology to science pedagogy: Effects and students’ experience. Smart Learning Environments, 10(1), 32.

  • Ojetunde, S. M., Ramnarain, U., & Teo, T. (2025). Task-technology fit of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) education technology for inquiry-based learning (IBL). Educational Media International, 62(1), 29-53.

  • Ojetunde, S. M. (2024). Learning from learners: A mixed-methods assessment of implementation of artificial intelligence curriculum at secondary schools. EUREKA: Social and Humanities, (5), 35-49.

  • Akinyemi, A. L., & Ojetunde, S. M. (2023). Modeling higher institutions’ response to the adoption of online teaching-learning platforms in Nigeria. Nigerian Open, Distance and e-Learning Journal (NODeLJ), 1, 1-12.

  • Ojetunde, S. M., Ramnarain, U., & Teo, T. (2025). Task-technology fit of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) education technology for inquiry-based learning (IBL). Educational Media International.

  • Ojetunde, S. M. (2025). Like objects or like subjects? Effects of student–robot interaction (SRI) and mathematical ability on students’ learning outcomes. Smart Learning Environments.

Jaison Jeevanandam | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Jaison Jeevanandam | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award 

Researcher at National Institute of Mental Health | Czech Republic

Dr. Jaison Jeevanandam is a distinguished researcher and scientist recognized internationally for his contributions to materials science and nanomedicine. His academic journey reflects a multidisciplinary foundation, having pursued studies in nanoscience, nanotechnology, and chemical engineering, complemented by management education that enhances his leadership and project coordination skills. Over the course of his career, he has held key research and academic positions in Europe and Asia, contributing significantly to nanotechnology-based therapeutic innovations, sustainable materials, and biomedical formulations. His expertise spans nanoparticle synthesis, dendrimer-based drug delivery systems, and machine learning applications in nanomedicine, particularly targeting neurodegenerative and metabolic disorders. With a prolific record of scholarly achievements, he has published 153 scientific documents, accumulating 7,091 citations across 6,357 referencing documents and achieving an h-index of 32 demonstrating his global influence and research excellence. His research focuses on the intersection of materials science, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence to develop sustainable, effective, and safe solutions for healthcare and environmental challenges. Dr. Jaison Jeevanandam has served as an editor, reviewer, and scientific committee member for leading journals and international conferences, actively shaping the future direction of materials science and biomedical research. His work on green nanotechnology and smart nanomaterials contributes to advancing environmentally friendly manufacturing and therapeutic approaches. As an educator and mentor, he has guided numerous students and researchers, fostering scientific curiosity and innovation across disciplines. His recognition among the world’s top scientists underscores his commitment to excellence, collaboration, and impactful research. Through a blend of technical mastery, interdisciplinary thinking, and visionary leadership, Dr. Jaison Jeevanandam continues to advance the frontiers of nanoscience and materials engineering, developing technologies that bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications. His ongoing research aims to revolutionize nanomedicine by integrating data-driven design and sustainable material development, reinforcing his role as a leading voice in global scientific innovation.

Featured Publications:

  • Jeevanandam, J., Barhoum, A., Chan, Y. S., Dufresne, A., & Danquah, M. K. (2018). Review on nanoparticles and nanostructured materials: History, sources, toxicity and regulations. Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology, 9(1), 1050-1074.

  • Ram, T. B., Krishnan, S., Jeevanandam, J., Danquah, M. K., & Thomas, S. (2024). Emerging biohybrids of aptamer-based nano-biosensing technologies for effective early cancer detection. Molecular Diagnosis & Therapy, 28(4), 425-453.

  • Jeevanandam, J. Sabbih, G., Tan, K. X., & Danquah, M. K. (2021). Oncological ligand-target binding systems and developmental approaches for cancer theranostics. Molecular Biotechnology, 63, 167-183.

  • Jeevanandam, J. Smart nanomedicines for neurodegenerative diseases: Empowering new therapies with molecular imaging and artificial intelligence.

  • Jeevanandam, J. Eco-restoration and nano-bioremediation of polluted soil using nanomaterial-synthesized biosurfactants.

  • Jeevanandam, J. Stabilization of metal-doped magnesium oxide nanoparticles with PAMAM dendrimers to improve alpha-amylase enzyme inhibition. Materials Today Bio.

  • Jeevanandam, J. Gelatin-based ballistic gel formulated with phytosynthesized nanocellulose from Arundo donax for alpha-amylase enzyme inhibition activity. Carbohydrate Polymer Technologies and Applications.

Neal Lester | Arts and Humanities | Best Scholar Award

Prof. Dr. Neal Lester | Arts and Humanities | Best Scholar Award

Professor of English at Arizona State University | United States

Prof. Dr. Neal Lester is a distinguished Foundation Professor of English and Founding Director of Project Humanities at Arizona State University, recognized internationally for his transformative contributions to arts, humanities, and cultural studies. He earned his Ph.D. and M.A. in English from Vanderbilt University and his B.A. in English from West Georgia College, graduating as valedictorian. Throughout his extensive academic career, Prof. Dr. Neal Lester has held multiple leadership roles, including Dean of Humanities and Associate Vice President in the Office of Knowledge Enterprise Development at Arizona State University. His research expertise spans African American literature, cultural appropriation, racial and gender identity politics, privilege and bias, diversity, Black masculinities, and representations in children’s literature and popular culture. As the Founding Director of Project Humanities, he has built an influential platform that integrates scholarship, public engagement, and social responsibility creating dialogues that bridge academia and community through empathy, integrity, and social awareness. He is the author and editor of several acclaimed works, including Once Upon a Time in a Different World: Issues and Ideas in African American Children’s Literature, Racialized Politics of Desire in Personal Ads, and Social Justice in Action: Models for Campus and Community. His scholarship has been featured in leading journals such as Humanities, The Journal of Popular Culture, Palimpsest, and Callaloo, contributing to ongoing conversations on equity, identity, and representation. With 22 published documents, 70 citations by 69 sources, and an h-index of 4, Prof. Dr. Neal Lester’s academic influence continues to grow across disciplines. His research and teaching demonstrate an enduring commitment to advancing humanities education and promoting inclusion through both intellectual inquiry and civic engagement. As one of the leading voices in contemporary humanities, Prof. Dr. Neal Lester’s career embodies the power of scholarship to foster understanding, challenge bias, and build bridges across diverse communities, ensuring that the humanities remain a vital force in shaping a more compassionate and informed society.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

  • Lester, N. A., & McNeil, E. (2025). Beyond physical and representational violence: The violence of Black children’s invisibility in public spaces. Identities: Global Studies in Culture and Power, 1–19.

  • Lester, N. A. (2024). Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul”: An anthem of courage, resistance, peace, and community. The Journal of Popular Culture, 57(4), 1–16.

  • Lester, N. A. (Ed.). (2024). Social Justice in Action: Models for Campus and Community. New York: Modern Language Association of America.

  • Farrior, C., & Lester, N. A. (2024). Digital blackface: Adultification of Black children in memes and children’s books. Humanities, 13(4), 91.

  • Lester, N. A., & McNeil, E. (2023). Beyond physical and representational violence: Rethinking Black childhood and public space. Public Humanities, 1(1), 12–27.