Isabel Vaz de Freitas | History | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Environmental Scientists

Prof. Dr. Isabel Vaz de Freitas | History | Best Researcher Award

Full Professor, Portucalense University, Portugal

Prof. Isabel Vaz de Freitas is a distinguished Full Professor at Portucalense University 🇵🇹, with a PhD in History and a deep-rooted academic journey in heritage, culture, and tourism. She leads the Department of Tourism, Heritage, and Culture and coordinates various undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. An active researcher with REMIT and CIAUD-UPT, she also collaborates with projects in Portugal and Spain. Her work spans landscape, territorial development, medieval studies, and cross-border cultural dynamics, making her a prominent voice in European heritage academia 🌍📚.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Prof. Freitas has an impressive academic trajectory, starting with a Bachelor’s degree from Universidade Portucalense in 1988 🎓, a Master’s from the University of Porto in 1993 📖, a PhD from Portucalense University in 2001 🧠, and achieving Aggregation from the University of Porto in 2016 🏛️. Her scholarly foundations support her prolific contributions to cultural and historical research.

💼 Professional Experience

With over three decades of academic service, Prof. Freitas has held roles from Guest Assistant Professor to Full Professor at Portucalense University (1991–present) 👩‍🏫. She has served as Head of Department since 2006 and has been actively involved in directing and coordinating heritage restoration and tourism initiatives. Her cross-border collaborations and project leadership have significantly advanced cultural studies in Portugal and Spain 🇵🇹🇪🇸.

🔬 Research Interest

Her research interests encompass medieval history, heritage preservation, landscape and water landscape analysis 💧🏞️, border studies, and peninsular cultural relations. Prof. Freitas emphasizes interdisciplinary and territorial valorization studies, contributing richly to projects addressing creative tourism, medieval fortifications, and sustainable development 🔍📜.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Prof. Freitas is a Correspondent Member of the Portuguese Academy of History 🇵🇹🏅 and has served on numerous scientific committees across Europe. She received funding from FCT Portugal and was honored by city councils and research institutions for her cultural promotion efforts. Her distinction as a leader in heritage research is reinforced by national and international accolades and academic appointments.

📚 Publications

“The Border and Water Landscape in the Iberian Peninsula” (2021), Journal of Heritage Studies – Link – Cited by 15 articles 📄

“Territory, Memory and Identity in Northern Portugal” (2019), Cultural Geography Review – Link – Cited by 20 articles 🗺️

“The Role of Heritage in Cross-border Cooperation” (2017), International Journal of Heritage and Sustainable Development – Link – Cited by 12 articles 🤝

“Medieval Tourism and Valorization of Historic Centers” (2015), Tourism and Culture Journal – Link – Cited by 9 articles 🏰

🏁 Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Isabel Vaz de Freitas is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Her academic excellence, multidisciplinary and applied research in heritage and tourism, international engagement, and leadership in EU-funded projects position her as a leading figure in the Humanities and Social Sciences research landscape. While minor areas for broader outreach and metric-based validation exist, her overall contribution is both significant and impactful.

Dr. Alis Shbaita | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Environmental Scientists

Dr. Alis Shbaita | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Alis Shbaita, Near East University, Cyprus

Alice Shbaita is a passionate and optimistic professional with expertise in Interior Architecture. With over two decades of experience in teaching and practice, she is committed to lifelong learning and refining her design skills. Alice is known for her dedication to enhancing her clients’ environments through creative and functional design solutions.

Profile

Orcid

Alice Shbaita has a strong background in interior architecture with diverse experience in academia and the professional industry, which makes her a good candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” Here’s an analysis:

Strengths for the Award

Academic Credentials: Pursuing a PhD in Interior Architecture, with a Master’s and Bachelor’s in Interior Design.

Research Publications: Published in international journals, including articles on environmental challenges and biophilic design, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

Professional Experience: Significant practical experience, from junior to chief interior designer roles across multiple countries (Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Palestine).

Technical Skills: Proficient in essential design tools like AutoCAD, Photoshop, and 3D Max, along with project management and concept development.

Multicultural Expertise: Experience in various cultures, which enhances her design sensitivity and adaptability.

Areas for Improvement

Focused Research Scope: Expanding her research to cover emerging trends in design technology or human-centered design could increase her academic impact.

Publication Impact: Publishing in more high-impact journals would further elevate her academic profile.

Leadership in Academia: A more prominent leadership role in academic or professional associations could strengthen her candidacy.

🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in Interior Architecture (2020 – Present)
    Near East University, Lefkosa, Cyprus
  • Master’s in Interior Design (2013 – 2016)
    World Islamic Sciences and Education University, Amman, Jordan
  • Bachelor’s in Interior Design (1999 – 2003)
    An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine

💼 Experience

  • Lecturer – Interior Design (2018 – 2019)
    Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
  • Chief Interior Designer (2010 – 2013)
    Arkan Engineering Consulting Office, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
  • Senior Interior Designer (2009 – 2010)
    Alaa Hariri Engineering Office, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
  • Junior Interior Designer (2004 – 2009)
    Al Raed Engineering Consulting Office, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
  • Junior Interior Designer (2003 – 2004)
    Venice Engineering Consulting Office, Nablus, Palestine

🔬 Research Interest

Alice’s research interests focus on biophilic design and sustainable architecture, with an emphasis on integrating nature-inspired elements into interior spaces. She is also passionate about exploring environmental challenges in design, particularly in the context of the Middle East.

🏆 Awards & Certificates

Leadership Skills and Charisma (2010)
Chamber of Commerce

IELTS (2019)

📚 Publication Top Notes

An Evidence-Based Assessment of Biophilic Interior Design in a Traditional Context: The Case of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Evaluation of Environmental Challenges of Jordan

Conclusion

Alice’s blend of academic, research, and practical experience makes her a strong contender for the “Best Researcher Award.” With a focus on further strengthening her research portfolio and leadership roles, she could solidify her standing in the academic and design communities.