Marcelo Vasconcelos | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Marcelo Vasconcelos | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

IT Auditor at Court of Auditors of the Federal District, Brazil

Marcelo Oliveira Vasconcelos is a seasoned professional and researcher from Brasília, Brazil, with over two decades of experience across public administration, financial auditing, and technology-based risk management. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Web Science and Technology, Marcelo’s expertise spans various roles, including Financial and External Control Analyst at the Tribunal de Contas do Distrito Federal (TCDF). He holds multiple certifications, such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Risk Management Professional (ISO 31000:2018). His research focuses on enhancing corruption risk assessments in public administration using advanced data science methods, making him a prominent figure in the application of technology for public sector improvements. Proficient in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, Marcelo brings a global perspective to his work, bolstered by leadership training from École Nationale d’Administration (ENA) in France. His contributions, such as his recent publications on artificial intelligence applications in public administration, underscore his commitment to advancing effective governance practices through data-driven insights and innovative methodologies.

Professional Profile

Education

Marcelo Vasconcelos has a comprehensive academic background that blends technology, law, and public administration. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Web Science and Technology at the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Portugal, which builds on his Master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Brasília, completed in 2020. His formal education is supplemented by a range of specialized qualifications: an MBA in Public Law from Instituto Processus and another in Constitutional Law from Instituto de Direito Público, Brasília. Marcelo also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from the State University of Goiás and an undergraduate degree in Science from UniCEUB Brasília. His academic trajectory is further complemented by international training in leadership and public management from École Nationale d’Administration (ENA) in France, which has enriched his expertise in governmental processes and administration. Marcelo’s educational journey reflects a balanced combination of technical expertise, public policy, and governance, aligning with his goal to leverage data science for practical solutions in public administration.

Professional Experience

Marcelo Vasconcelos has accumulated diverse professional experience, with a primary focus on public sector auditing and analysis. Since August 2004, he has served as a Financial and External Control Analyst at the Tribunal de Contas do Distrito Federal (TCDF), where he applies his expertise in data auditing, fraud detection, and risk management to enhance public accountability. Previously, he held various roles, including Social Security Tax Auditor at the National Social Security Institute (INSS) from 2003 to 2004, and Foreign Trade Analyst at the Secretariat of Foreign Trade, where he honed his skills in regulatory compliance and policy analysis. His early career also includes work as a Federal Revenue Analyst for the Secretariat of Federal Revenue and as a Teacher of Science and Mathematics in the Federal District’s Secretariat of Education. Marcelo’s professional journey reflects a commitment to strengthening governance and public sector efficiency, leveraging both his analytical and technological skills to contribute to Brazil’s federal and financial control sectors.

Research Interest

Marcelo’s primary research interest lies in the intersection of data science, public administration, and ethics, particularly in using technology to tackle corruption and enhance governance transparency. His research explores the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to identify and mitigate risks associated with public administration processes. Notably, Marcelo has focused on creating models that assess corruption risk in public administration, emphasizing the development of imbalanced learning techniques to improve accuracy in risk detection. His work, such as his study on mitigating false negatives in imbalanced datasets, aligns with his commitment to data-driven governance reforms. In addition, Marcelo’s interest extends to Web Science and the application of large datasets for public decision-making. By advancing methodologies that blend computer science with public policy, he seeks to bridge gaps in data application and ethical governance, positioning his research within the broader movement of responsible AI in public services.

Research Skills

Marcelo Vasconcelos brings a robust skill set to his research, particularly in data analytics, risk assessment, and machine learning applications in public administration. He is proficient in using artificial intelligence techniques, specifically imbalanced learning methods, to enhance the reliability of corruption risk models. His technical skills extend to using Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT 5) and ISO 31000:2018 standards for risk management. Marcelo is certified as a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), which bolsters his skills in cybersecurity and information systems auditing. His analytical expertise is complemented by his experience in developing ensemble approaches to minimize errors in data models. Marcelo also brings practical knowledge in data governance and policy application, supported by his academic research, which is published in journals like Expert Systems with Applications and Data in Brief. These skills position him as a research-driven professional with advanced capabilities in designing, implementing, and evaluating technology-based solutions for complex public sector challenges.

Awards and Honors

While Marcelo’s curriculum does not explicitly mention awards, his achievements reflect recognition through certifications and high-impact publications. His certifications, including CISA and ISO 31000:2018 for risk management, demonstrate his commitment to maintaining industry standards and developing expertise in information systems and public sector accountability. Marcelo’s acceptance of his work in respected journals, such as Data in Brief and Expert Systems with Applications, further highlights his research contributions. His participation in leadership training at the prestigious École Nationale d’Administration (ENA) also underscores his standing as a thought leader in the public sector. By achieving a high level of proficiency in his certifications and continuing professional development, Marcelo has positioned himself as a well-regarded expert in his field, aligning with the standards expected for research awards in public administration and technology applications.

Conclusion

Marcelo Vasconcelos demonstrates a robust profile for the Best Researcher Award, combining practical public sector expertise with advanced research in technology and data analytics. His work in assessing corruption risk through imbalanced learning models addresses critical issues, showcasing his contribution to public administration and AI fields. Strengthening his academic engagement and expanding his research scope could enhance his candidacy further, positioning him as a well-rounded researcher with substantial contributions to his field.

Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Mitigating False Negatives in Imbalanced Datasets: An Ensemble Approach
    • Publication: Expert Systems with Applications
    • Year: 2025
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.eswa.2024.125674
    • Authors: Marcelo Vasconcelos, Luís Cavique
  • Title: Dataset for Corruption Risk Assessment in a Public Administration
  • Title: Imbalanced Learning in Assessing the Risk of Corruption in Public Administration
    • Publication: Book Chapter in Imbalanced Learning in Assessing the Risk of Corruption in Public Administration
    • Year: 2021
    • DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-86230-5_40
    • Authors: Marcelo Oliveira Vasconcelos, Ricardo Matos Chaim, Luís Cavique

 

Abid Iqbal | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Abid Iqbal | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Abid Iqbal is an accomplished Assistant Professor at the University of Engineering and Technology Peshawar, specializing in Electrical Engineering and artificial intelligence. He earned his Ph.D. from Griffith University, Australia, where he researched piezoelectric energy harvesters. With a strong academic background, he ranked first in his Master’s program at Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute, Pakistan. Dr. Iqbal has a diverse professional experience, including roles as an Electrical Design Engineer and Research Assistant. His expertise encompasses developing embedded devices and innovative teaching methodologies, mentoring students, and conducting impactful research. He has successfully secured funding for multiple projects in AI applications for health and agriculture. Dr. Iqbal’s publication record includes numerous papers in reputable journals, reflecting his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. His technical skills in programming and software further enhance his research capabilities, making him a valuable asset to academia and industry.

Profile

Education

Dr. Abid Iqbal is a highly accomplished academic with a solid educational foundation in electrical and electronics engineering. He earned his Ph.D. from the Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre at Griffith University, Australia, from April 2013 to February 2017. His doctoral research focused on the design, fabrication, and analysis of aluminum nitride (AlN)/silicon carbide (SiC)-based piezoelectric energy harvesters, contributing significantly to renewable energy technologies. Prior to his Ph.D., Dr. Iqbal completed his Master’s degree in Electronics Engineering at the Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute in Topi, Swabi, Pakistan, graduating with a remarkable GPA of 3.88/4 and securing the top position in his class. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Engineering & Technology in Peshawar, Pakistan, where he was recognized as an outstanding student. Dr. Iqbal’s educational background reflects his dedication and expertise in his field, laying a strong foundation for his professional career.

Professional Experience

Dr. Abid Iqbal is an accomplished electrical engineer currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the University of Engineering and Technology Peshawar since August 2019. In this role, he has been instrumental in teaching undergraduate courses in Electrical Engineering, developing innovative teaching methods, and mentoring students on research projects. Prior to this position, he worked as an Electrical Design Engineer at Alliance Power and Data in Australia, focusing on ERGON and NBN projects. He also contributed to the development of embedded systems for individuals with disabilities while employed as an Electronic Engineer at Community Lifestyle Support. His research experience includes a significant role as a Research Assistant at Griffith University, where he worked on piezoelectric devices for harsh environments and gained expertise in various semiconductor fabrication processes. Additionally, he has served as a lecturer at Comsat Institute of Information Technology and worked as a research associate at the City University of Hong Kong, demonstrating a robust and diverse professional background in academia and industry.

Research Interest

Dr. Abid Iqbal’s research interests lie at the intersection of electrical engineering and artificial intelligence, focusing on the development of innovative technologies that enhance energy efficiency and improve healthcare outcomes. His work includes designing and fabricating advanced piezoelectric energy harvesters using AlN/SiC materials, aimed at harnessing renewable energy sources. Additionally, Dr. Iqbal is deeply involved in projects utilizing artificial intelligence for agricultural applications, such as real-time disease detection in crops, and developing telehealth systems that leverage IoT technology to monitor patient health remotely. He has a keen interest in embedded systems and the design of hardware for assistive technologies, including portable ventilators and muscle sensors for individuals with disabilities. Through his research, Dr. Iqbal aims to contribute to sustainable energy solutions and advancements in healthcare technology, fostering a multidisciplinary approach that integrates engineering principles with artificial intelligence for practical applications.

Research Skills

Dr. Abid Iqbal possesses a robust set of research skills that underscore his expertise in Electrical Engineering and artificial intelligence. His extensive experience in designing and fabricating piezoelectric energy harvesters highlights his proficiency in materials science and device characterization. Dr. Iqbal is adept at using advanced simulation tools such as COMSOL, Ansys, and Coventorware, which facilitate in-depth analysis and optimization of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). His work on artificial intelligence applications in telehealth and agricultural systems showcases his ability to integrate machine learning techniques with practical engineering solutions. Additionally, Dr. Iqbal has a strong background in programming languages such as Python and MATLAB, enhancing his capability to develop innovative software solutions for complex engineering problems. His involvement in funded projects and numerous publications further illustrates his commitment to advancing research and contributing to knowledge in his field. Overall, Dr. Iqbal’s diverse skills position him as a valuable asset to any research team.

Award and Recognition

Dr. Abid Iqbal is a distinguished electrical engineer and academic known for his significant contributions to the field of electrical and electronics engineering. He has received multiple accolades for his research and academic excellence, including the IGNITE funding for four innovative projects focused on machine learning applications in health and agriculture. Dr. Iqbal was awarded publication scholarships and prestigious Griffith University PhD scholarships, recognizing his outstanding academic performance during his doctoral studies. Additionally, he ranked first among his peers in the Master’s program at Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute, further demonstrating his commitment to excellence in engineering. His dedication to teaching and mentoring future engineers is evident in his role as an Assistant Professor at the University of Engineering and Technology Peshawar, where he has developed innovative curricula and guided numerous student research projects. Dr. Iqbal’s work has been widely published, contributing significantly to advancements in artificial intelligence, embedded systems, and renewable energy technologies.

Conclusion

Dr. Abid Iqbal is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, demonstrating exceptional expertise in Electrical Engineering and a strong commitment to research and education. His accomplishments in renewable energy research, successful project management, and dedication to mentoring future engineers make him a standout choice. While he has areas for growth, particularly in expanding collaborative networks and enhancing commercialization efforts, his current achievements and potential for future contributions position him as an inspiring figure in his field. This award would not only recognize his past efforts but also encourage his continued pursuit of excellence in research and education.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Enhanced TumorNet: Leveraging YOLOv8s and U-net for superior brain tumor detection and segmentation utilizing MRI scans
    • Authors: Zafar, W., Husnain, G., Iqbal, A., AL-Zahrani, M.S., Naidu, R.S.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Results in Engineering
    • Volume/Page: 24, 102994
  2. Novel dual absorber configuration for eco-friendly perovskite solar cells: design, numerical investigations and performance of ITO-C60-MASnI3-RbGeI3-Cu2O-Au
    • Authors: Hasnain, S.M., Qasim, I., Iqbal, A., Amin Mir, M., Abu-Libdeh, N.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Solar Energy
    • Volume/Page: 278, 112788