Brice Kamguia | economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Brice Kamguia | economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Brice Kamguia, University of YaoundΓ© II SOA, Cameroon

Brice Kamguia is a dynamic economist from Cameroon, currently serving with the World Bank Group. With over seven years of experience in development economics, he specializes in innovative, data-driven solutions addressing economic challenges in Africa. He has held prominent roles at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the University of YaoundΓ© II, and multiple research institutions. Kamguia's expertise spans macroeconomic modeling, econometrics, and policy reform, often collaborating with African and global organizations such as the African Union. His scholarly contributions include publications in leading journals on structural transformation, energy justice, and economic complexity. Adept in software tools like R, Stata, and EViews, Brice is passionate about evidence-based policymaking and capacity building. His diverse regional experience includes work in South Africa, Zambia, Cameroon, and the Republic of Congo. Kamguia embodies intellectual rigor and a strong commitment to Africa's sustainable economic transformation.

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Evaluation of Suitability: Research for Best Researcher Award

Summary of Suitability:

Brice Kamguia presents a compelling and well-rounded profile that aligns exceptionally with the standards and expectations of the Research for Best Researcher Award. With a Ph.D. in international and development economics and multiple peer-reviewed publications in highly relevant journals, Kamguia demonstrates a strong academic foundation and an active, impactful research portfolio. His work is both original and policy-relevant, addressing critical themes such as economic complexity, energy poverty, trade shocks, and governance β€” all central to global development and sustainability debates. Notably, his Ph.D. dissertation produced three high-quality research outputs, signaling his ability to generate new knowledge from complex macroeconomic issues, particularly in the African context.

Kamguia’s professional experience further strengthens his candidacy. His work with global organizations like the World Bank, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, and African universities showcases his ability to translate academic research into practical policy guidance and development project implementation. His role as a consultant under the World Bank African Fellowship program and his contributions to evidence-based policy development make him a rare blend of researcher and practitioner. He also excels in capacity building, having taught and supervised at multiple higher institutions and participated in extensive econometric training, thereby helping to shape the next generation of economists in Africa.

Education 

Brice Kamguia holds a Ph.D. in International and Development Economics from the University of Dschang (2021). His dissertation explored the impact of terms of trade shocks in Africa through three seminal essays, two of which have been published in peer-reviewed journals. He earned a Master's degree in Mathematics and Statistics applied to Social Sciences from the University of YaoundΓ© II in 2017, with a thesis analyzing trade facilitation and export competitiveness in CEMAC countries. His foundational academic background was laid with a Bachelor's in Economic and Financial Engineering in 2014 from the same university. Brice has further enriched his knowledge through several World Bank eLearning courses on project financing, risk assessment, and operations. These credentials have given him a robust foundation in theoretical and applied economics, econometrics, and international development, enhancing his capacity for high-impact research, teaching, and consultancy in economic development.

Professional Experience 

Brice Kamguia is currently a Consultant at the World Bank Group under the African Fellowship Program, supporting transport project preparation and policy reforms. He also serves as a Lecturer at the University of YaoundΓ© II. His previous roles include Research Fellow at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and Assistant Lecturer at the University of YaoundΓ© II. Brice also contributed as a researcher at both the Centre d'Etude et de Recherche en Economie et Gestion (CEREG) and the European Xtramile Centre of African Studies (EXCAS). His work focuses on economic development, macroeconomic policy, and institutional reform. Brice has also taught at Sapientiae Higher Institute and provided tutorial guidance at the University of Dschang. His early professional experiences include internships with the University of YaoundΓ© II, MINESUP, and the National Hydrocarbons Company. Across all roles, he has emphasized innovation, policy development, and capacity building.

Awards and Recognition 

Brice Kamguia has earned distinguished recognition throughout his academic and professional career. His selection into the African Fellowship Program by the World Bank Group marks a significant achievement, demonstrating his capability and potential to contribute to high-impact development initiatives. He has been entrusted with influential policy and research responsibilities at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and has contributed to international dialogues on economic transformation and governance. His doctoral research yielded multiple peer-reviewed publications, enhancing his reputation as an emerging thought leader in development economics. Brice’s roles as a lecturer, researcher, and consultant have consistently showcased his excellence in economic modeling, public policy, and institutional reform. Though early in his career, his impactful publications in journals such as Ecological Economics and The Journal of International Trade & Economic Development affirm his growing influence in shaping economic discourse in Africa.

Research Skill On Economics

Brice Kamguia is equipped with a robust portfolio of research skills central to macroeconomic analysis, structural transformation, and institutional reform in African economies. He is proficient in econometric analysis using R, Stata, and EViews, and excels in dynamic modeling approaches like DSGE. His capacity extends to survey design, micro-macro simulation, and statistical database development. Kamguia's empirical research integrates environmental economics, energy policy, and global value chains, applying cutting-edge quantitative methods. He has collaborated with institutions such as the African Union and UNECA, contributing actionable insights through evidence-based reports and policy dialogues. His field experience across countries including Zambia, South Africa, and Cameroon has enhanced his cultural competence and ability to craft region-specific policy recommendations. His strengths lie in translating complex data into practical reforms and building institutional capacities across multiple governance levels.

  Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Do ICTs drive wealth inequality? Evidence from a dynamic panel analysis
    Authors: H. Njangang, A. Beleck, S. Tadadjeu, B. Kamguia
    Journal: Telecommunications Policy, 46(2), 102246
    Citations: 73
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Does foreign aid impede economic complexity in developing countries?
    Authors: B. Kamguia, S. Tadadjeu, C. Miamo, H. Njangang
    Journal: International Economics, 169, 71–88
    Citations: 72
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Remittances and energy poverty: Fresh evidence from developing countries
    Authors: R. Djeunankan, H. Njangang, S. Tadadjeu, B. Kamguia
    Journal: Utilities Policy, 81, 101516
    Citations: 54
    Year: 2023

  • Title: Natural resources and innovation: Is the R&D sector cursed too?
    Authors: B. Kamguia, J. Keneck-Massil, Y. Nvuh-Njoya, S. Tadadjeu
    Journal: Resources Policy, 77, 102725
    Citations: 37
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Governance in mitigating the effect of oil wealth on wealth inequality: A cross-country analysis of policy thresholds
    Authors: H. Njangang, S.A. Asongu, S. Tadadjeu, Y. Nounamo, B. Kamguia
    Journal: Resources Policy, 76, 102561
    Citations: 37
    Year: 2022

  • Title: How does terms of trade volatility affect macroeconomic volatility? The roles of financial development and institutions
    Authors: D. Avom, B. Kamguia, J.P. Ngameni, H. Njangang
    Journal: International Economics, 168, 98–114
    Citations: 27
    Year: 2021

  • Title: Does infrastructural development foster export upgrading in Africa?
    Authors: B. Kamguia, M. Ndjakwa, S. Tadadjeu
    Journal: African Development Review, 35(1), 79–94
    Citations: 25
    Year: 2023

  • Title: Linking energy poverty and industrialization: Empirical evidence from African countries
    Authors: R. Djeunankan, S. Tadadjeu, B. Kamguia
    Journal: Energy, 292, 130374
    Citations: 22
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Natural resources, child mortality and governance quality in African countries
    Authors: S. Tadadjeu, H. Njangang, S.A. Asongu, B. Kamguia
    Journal: Resources Policy, 83, 103702
    Citations: 18
    Year: 2023

  • Title: Does volatility hinder economic complexity
    Authors: D. Avom, B. Kamguia, J.P. Ngameni
    Journal: Economics Bulletin, 41(3), 1187–1202
    Citations: 18
    Year: 2021

Zaikun Hou | Health Economics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zaikun Hou | Health Economics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zaikun Hou, Institute of Blue and Green Development Shandong University, China

Zaikun Hou is a dedicated PhD student at the Institute of Blue and Green Development, Shandong University. His academic journey is centered at the crossroads of environmental economics and health economics, with a specific emphasis on understanding the multifaceted effects of air pollution on public health, individual behavior, and societal well-being. Zaikun’s pioneering research investigates how pollution influences commercial health insurance choices and safety-related liabilities. He has presented his findings at major international conferences and has been published in top-tier SSCI/SCI journals, including an ABS 3-star journal. With a deep commitment to promoting policy-relevant research, his work supports improved environmental regulations and enhances the quantitative understanding of societal welfare losses due to pollution. His contributions aim to create sustainable development pathways through interdisciplinary approaches. Zaikun is a rising voice in the field of health economics, helping bridge economic analysis with environmental policy for a healthier, more equitable future.

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Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award – Zaikun Hou

Zaikun Hou, currently a PhD student at the Institute of Blue and Green Development, Shandong University, is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his significant contributions to the fields of environmental economics and health economics. His research focuses on pressing global issues, particularly the impacts of air pollution on public health, individual behavior, and societal welfare. This research aligns with contemporary global priorities, highlighting the intersection between environmental degradation and human well-being.

Zaikun has demonstrated a strong academic track record, including first-author papers published in high-impact SSCI/SCI-indexed journals. Notably, his paper in Journal of Environmental Management (SCI, 2024) explores the socioeconomic consequences of air pollution, with a specific focus on defensive expenditures related to health insurance. His work contributes valuable insights into how air pollution affects both individual decision-making and societal welfare, providing a critical foundation for more effective environmental policies. The ongoing research, including the paper on air pollution and safety liability accidents, further extends his commitment to advancing interdisciplinary integration in the study of environmental and health economics.

Education 

Zaikun Hou is currently pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental and Health Economics at the Institute of Blue and Green Development, Shandong University, a premier research center fostering interdisciplinary innovation. During his doctoral studies, he has focused on the empirical assessment of air pollution's socio-economic impact, combining economic theory with environmental policy models. Prior to his PhD, Zaikun completed his undergraduate and master’s degrees in Economics, where he developed a strong foundation in econometrics, public policy, and behavioral economics. His academic excellence is complemented by hands-on research experience, including the design and execution of econometric models assessing pollution’s impact on human decision-making. Through workshops, seminars, and global academic forums, Zaikun continues to refine his skills and collaborate internationally. His academic journey reflects a firm commitment to producing research that mattersβ€”supporting evidence-based policymaking and enriching the evolving discourse of health and environmental economics.

Professional Experience 

Zaikun Hou has gained robust research experience through academic projects and international collaborations while pursuing his PhD. His work with the Institute of Blue and Green Development has enabled him to conduct impactful research at the intersection of air pollution, public health, and economic behavior. Notably, he authored the paper β€œThe Effect of Air Pollution on Defensive Expenditures: Evidence from Individual Commercial Health Insurance in China”, published in the SCI-indexed Journal of Environmental Management in 2024. He also developed a working paper titled β€œDevil Particles: Air Pollution and Safety Liability Accidents”. In addition to publication efforts, Zaikun actively contributes to international conferences, sharing empirical findings and policy insights. His collaborations span academia, public institutions, and research networks that focus on environmental regulation and public health economics. As a budding economist, Zaikun’s professional trajectory shows a strong alignment with solving real-world environmental and societal challenges.

Awards and Recognition 

Zaikun Hou’s scholarly contributions have been acknowledged through first-author publications in internationally recognized SSCI and SCI-indexed journals, including ABS 3-star-rated outlets. His research paper published in the Journal of Environmental Management has already garnered citations, reflecting its academic impact in the field of environmental and health economics. His participation in international academic conferences has earned him accolades for insightful presentations and empirical rigor. In recognition of his contribution to air pollution impact assessment and its economic implications, Zaikun has been nominated for the Best Researcher Award, a testament to his growing influence in interdisciplinary research. His work is increasingly referenced by peers exploring environmental policy, public health expenditures, and economic modeling. Through his commitment to high-quality, policy-relevant research, Zaikun has positioned himself as a thought leader of tomorrow. His innovative methodologies and cross-sector collaborations further underline his potential to lead transformative research in health economics and sustainability.

Research Skill On Health Economics

Zaikun Hou brings a sophisticated analytical toolkit to the field of health economics, combining empirical methods with policy evaluation frameworks. He excels in econometric modeling, data-driven impact assessments, and quantitative policy evaluation, with a particular focus on the socio-economic consequences of air pollution. His research skillset includes Stata, R, and Python for data analysis, and he is proficient in handling large-scale datasets involving health, insurance, and pollution metrics. Zaikun’s ability to translate statistical outcomes into meaningful policy insights allows him to contribute effectively to interdisciplinary debates. He also possesses strong academic writing and peer-review skills, reflected in his successful publications and conference papers. His strategic thinking enables him to conceptualize research questions that bridge gaps between environmental science, public policy, and economic behavior. Overall, his research skills embody innovation, rigor, and a keen understanding of how to optimize policies that promote both public health and environmental well-being.

  Publication Top Notes

  1. Title: The effect of air pollution on defensive expenditures: Evidence from individual commercial health insurance in China

    • Authors: Z. Hou, G. Zhang, P. Lohmann, A. Kontoleon, N. Zhang

    • Citation: Journal of Environmental Management, Vol. 370, Article 122379

    • Year: 2024

  2. Title: Air Pollution, Defensive Behaviors and Medical Expenditures

    • Authors: Z. Hou, M.J. Kim, N. Zhang

    • Citation: Journal of Asian Economics, Article 101931

    • Year: 2025

  3. Title: The Impact of Digital Financial Inclusion on Household Commercial Insurance for Sustainable Governance Mechanisms under Regional Group Differences

    • Authors: Z. Hou, J. Xu, Y. Choi, Y. Ma

    • Citation: Sustainability, Vol. 16(9), Article 3596

    • Year: 2024

zhanxiang zhang | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. zhanxiang zhang | Economics | Best Researcher Award

πŸ‘€ Mr. zhanxiang zhang, Shenzhen University, China

Zhanxiang Zhang is a promising finance student with a strong academic background and research interests in economics and finance. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Finance at Shenzhen University, he has built a reputation as a dedicated researcher. Zhanxiang earned his Bachelor’s degree in International Economics and Trade from Henan University, where he gained insights into economic trends and market dynamics. His academic journey has been marked by a keen interest in exploring the intersection of technology, environmental sustainability, and finance. He actively participates in significant academic projects, working alongside distinguished researchers to tackle pressing issues in the financial sector, such as greenwashing and investment efficiency. His dedication to advancing knowledge in finance and economics has earned him recognition through various awards.

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🌟 Suitability for the β€œResearch for Best Researcher Award”

Zhanxiang Zhang demonstrates strong potential for the β€œResearch for Best Researcher Award” based on his academic background, research contributions, and commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of finance and economics, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence, environmental regulations, and greenwashing.

His publication in Finance Research Letters titled β€œDoes Artificial Intelligence Deter Greenwashing?” exemplifies his proficiency in applying advanced data analytics and empirical research methods. By utilizing Python’s Jieba library for text analysis and employing Stata for empirical tests, Zhanxiang showed a deep understanding of AI’s role in corporate responsibility and environmental ethics. This research reflects a significant contribution to both the finance and environmental sustainability sectors, exploring cutting-edge issues with a quantitative approach.

πŸŽ“  Education

Zhanxiang Zhang is currently enrolled in the Master of Finance program at Shenzhen University (Sep 2022 – Present), where he is honing his expertise in financial markets, investment strategies, and economic theories. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in International Economics and Trade from Henan University (Sep 2018 – Jun 2022), laying the foundation for his future research in finance and economics. Throughout his academic career, Zhanxiang has demonstrated a passion for understanding economic systems and their influence on global markets. His education is complemented by his involvement in various academic projects and competitions, where he has demonstrated outstanding analytical skills and innovative thinking. His research expertise includes the use of Python, Stata, and MATLAB for empirical analysis, which he has applied in groundbreaking studies related to greenwashing and digital transformation.

πŸ’Ό   Professional Experience

Zhanxiang Zhang has contributed significantly to several high-impact research projects that explore contemporary issues in finance, economics, and sustainability. His research collaborations with esteemed academics such as Donghui Li and Xin Gao have resulted in impactful papers published in prominent journals, including Finance Research Letters. Notable among his contributions is the paper on greenwashing, where he employed Python’s Jieba library for text analysis of corporate annual reports and developed a model to measure AI adoption levels. In addition, he has worked on projects related to environmental regulation and green image management, utilizing rigorous empirical tests with Stata. As an emerging professional, Zhanxiang has also contributed to projects on investment efficiency and digital transformation, offering fresh perspectives on the role of artificial intelligence in finance.

πŸ… Awards and Recognition

Zhanxiang Zhang has received multiple accolades throughout his academic career. In September 2022, he was awarded the Second Class Scholarship from Shenzhen University in recognition of his academic excellence. Zhanxiang also achieved the Third Prize in the prestigious Sixth China International β€œInternet+” Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition for College Students in November 2020, showcasing his creativity and problem-solving skills. In the same year, he earned the Grand Prize at the β€œInternet+” Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition held by the College of International Education at Henan University, further solidifying his potential as a leader in innovation. Additionally, he was honored as a Merit Student at Henan University in November 2019, acknowledging his dedication and perseverance in academics.

🌍 Research Skills On Economics

Zhanxiang Zhang possesses strong research skills in quantitative analysis, economic modeling, and data visualization. He is proficient in using advanced software tools such as Stata, Python, and MATLAB for empirical research, with particular expertise in text analysis and statistical modeling. His research includes a focus on environmental regulation, greenwashing, and the efficiency of investments, where he applies sophisticated methodologies like Difference-in-Differences (DID) models and baseline regression tests. Zhanxiang’s ability to synthesize large datasets and produce meaningful insights has made him an asset to his research team. His continuous pursuit of knowledge in economics and finance, combined with his technical skills, enables him to tackle complex financial problems, offering valuable contributions to the field.

πŸ“– Publication Top Notes

  • The Impact of Environmental Regulation on Green Image Management of Supply Chain: Evidence from China
    • Authors: Donghui Li, Zhanxiang Zhang, Rui Xu
    • Year: 2024
  • Does artificial intelligence deter greenwashing?
    • Authors: Donghui Li, Zhanxiang Zhang, Xin Gao
    • Year: 2024