Saad A. A. Jabir | Structural Health Monitoring | Research Excellence in Civil and Environmental Engineering Award

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Saad A. A. Jabir | Structural Health Monitoring | Research Excellence in Civil and Environmental Engineering Award

CEO | Nur Engineering GmbH | Germany

Saad A. A. Jabir’s research focuses on advancing condition monitoring and structural health assessment within civil engineering, emphasizing innovative sensor-based approaches for real-time evaluation of infrastructure performance. His primary contributions are in the development and application of thick-film ceramic sensors for measuring the strength and stability of civil structures. Jabir’s work demonstrates the potential of these sensors in providing accurate, durable, and responsive measurements that enhance the reliability and safety of infrastructure systems. Through his publications, he explores the integration of sensing technology into civil structures, enabling continuous monitoring that aids in preventive maintenance and early fault detection. His research also intersects materials science and measurement engineering, with attention to improving sensor materials’ thermal and mechanical resilience for field applications. By addressing challenges such as environmental variability and long-term stability of sensor outputs, Jabir contributes to making structural monitoring systems more adaptive and cost-effective. His studies have significant implications for modern smart infrastructure and sustainable construction practices, providing valuable insights into how sensor technologies can be scaled for large-scale engineering projects. His collaborative work reflects an interdisciplinary approach combining electrical engineering, materials research, and civil infrastructure monitoring to create robust diagnostic systems for critical assets. Saad A. A. Jabir’s research output, though concise, holds impactful applications for modern infrastructure management and reliability improvement in engineering systems. 60 Citations 3 Documents 2 h-index

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Featured Publications:

Condition monitoring of the strength and stability of civil structures using thick film ceramic sensors. (2013). Measurement: Journal of the International Measurement Confederation.

George Ashwehmbom Looh | Agricultural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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George Ashwehmbom Looh | Agricultural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher | Hunan Agricultural University | China

George Ashwehmbom Looh’s research concentrates on advancing agricultural mechanization through intelligent systems aimed at improving grain processing efficiency and minimizing post-harvest losses. His primary focus is the detection and reduction of grain damage during threshing and handling operations using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning algorithms. Looh has conducted optimization experiments to enhance the operational performance of rice threshing equipment, incorporating analytical modeling of mechanical properties of rice grains to determine their influence on breakage and quality deterioration. His studies bridge computational intelligence and mechanical engineering principles to develop predictive systems capable of detecting damage in real time and improving equipment design and functionality. Looh’s work also explores the integration of adaptive technologies in agricultural machinery, such as the automatic adjustment of threshing gaps based on feed rate monitoring in combine harvesters, contributing to the broader field of precision agriculture. His collaborations extend into advanced fault detection in industrial machinery using hybrid transformer models and variational autoencoders, as well as tactile sensor optimization with polymer optical fiber technology. The consistent theme across his research is enhancing mechanical performance, sustainability, and automation in agricultural and mechanical systems. Looh’s scientific contributions, which include several publications in high-impact journals like Materials & Design, Journal of Agricultural Engineering, and Applied Engineering in Agriculture, reflect a strong commitment to innovation in agricultural engineering, mechatronics, and applied data science. His research advances the precision and reliability of agricultural operations, fostering the development of more resilient post-harvest systems and intelligent equipment capable of addressing global challenges in food security and sustainable farming practices.

Profile: Scopus
Featured Publications:

Design and experiment of adaptive adjustment of threshing gaps based on the feed rate monitoring of soybean combine harvester conveyor trough. (2025). Computers and Electronics in Agriculture.

Li Fen | Urban Planning | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Li Fen | Urban Planning | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Li Fen, a distinguished researcher and Chief Engineer at the Shenzhen Institute of Building Research Co., Ltd., has made significant contributions in the fields of sustainable urban development, ecological planning, and green building technologies. Her expertise lies in integrating the principles of energy efficiency, environmental protection, and urban livability into modern city design and planning. Over the past five years, Li Fen has led and participated in more than twenty research projects at both national and provincial levels, addressing critical intersections between energy systems and carbon emissions. Her major works include the Ministry of Science and Technology’s Intergovernmental International Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Project on “Key Technologies and Demonstrations for Comprehensive Research on Urban Energy Systems and Carbon Emissions,” developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE). She also played a leading role in the Twelfth Five-Year National Science and Technology Support Program, focusing on “Green Building Planning Pre-Assessment and Diagnostic Technology Research.” Internationally, Li Fen has collaborated on eight major projects, including the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-funded “Shenzhen Climate Change Adaptation Strategy Research,” which provided strategic insights for urban climate resilience. In addition to her research leadership, she serves as an expert member for several organizations such as the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, the Ministry of Climate’s low carbon pilot projects, the Guangdong Provincial Department of Science and Technology, and the Tianjin Ecological Environment Bureau. Her participation in major carbon-neutral initiatives, including Zhejiang carbon-neutralization projects and World Bank IFC near-zero carbon emission programs, highlights her role in shaping low-carbon urban policies and practices in China. Li Fen’s scholarly impact reflects a deep commitment to advancing sustainable urban systems and environmental innovation. She has achieved 154 Citations, published 16 Documents, and holds an h-index of 8.

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Featured Publications:

Max Barillas | Computational Mechanics | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Max Barillas | Computational Mechanics | Best Researcher Award

PhD Researcher | Centre Internacional de Metodes Numerics en Enginyeria | Spain

Mr. Max Barillas is a dedicated researcher specializing in computational and mechanical engineering with a strong focus on data-driven modeling and materials design. Currently serving as a Predoctoral Researcher at the Centre Internacional de Mètodes Numèrics en Enginyeria (CIMNE) in Barcelona, Max contributes to advancing numerical and computational methods for solving complex engineering problems. His academic trajectory includes a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Santa Clara University and ongoing doctoral research in Civil Engineering at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. Max’s work demonstrates a strong interdisciplinary approach that merges computational mechanics, materials science, and applied mathematics. His notable research includes the development of non-intrusive, data-driven methodologies for addressing inverse problems in bending dielectric elastomer actuators, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy in modeling soft robotic systems. Additionally, he has contributed to the design of low-porosity auxetic tessellations aimed at reducing mechanical stress concentrations, a study that supports innovations in lightweight and flexible materials. Through these investigations, Max explores the intersection of structural optimization and smart materials, striving to enhance mechanical performance and adaptability. His research reflects a commitment to bridging theoretical frameworks with real-world applications in advanced materials and engineering design. Overall, Max Barillas’s scholarly contributions highlight a forward-thinking perspective within computational mechanics, focusing on leveraging mathematical modeling and numerical analysis to address modern challenges in material behavior and structural engineering, reinforcing his role as an emerging expert in the field of computational and mechanical sciences.

Profile: ORCID
Fearuted Publications:

Barillas, M., Ortigosa, R., Martinez-Frutos, J., Bonet, J., & García-González, A. (2026). Design of low-porosity auxetic tessellations with reduced mechanical stress concentrations. Applied Mathematical Modelling.

Adewale Isaac Olutumise | Environmental Risk | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Adewale Isaac Olutumise | Environmental Risk | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer | Adekunle Ajasin University | Nigeria

Adewale Isaac Olutumise is a distinguished researcher in Agricultural Economics with a strong focus on environmental and production economics, particularly emphasizing the intersection of climate change, agricultural productivity, and rural welfare. His research explores the socioeconomic dynamics of climate adaptation, food security, and sustainable agricultural systems in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. Adewale’s extensive scholarly contributions include studies on climate variability, noise pollution impacts on food markets, and adaptation strategies among crop and livestock farmers. His work integrates econometric modeling and policy-oriented analysis to address agricultural inefficiencies, income inequality, and environmental challenges affecting rural livelihoods. He has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in international journals such as Theoretical and Applied Climatology, Agricultural and Food Economics, Discover Sustainability, and Journal of Thermal Biology, contributing to global discussions on resilience and sustainability in food systems. His academic engagements extend to supervising postgraduate research, conducting field-based quantitative studies, and participating in multidisciplinary projects that link agriculture with environmental policy and welfare economics. As a Senior Lecturer at Adekunle Ajasin University and Research Fellow at Walter Sisulu University, Adewale has also presented his findings at several international conferences, including those organized by IIFET and NAAE. His research portfolio demonstrates a consistent commitment to understanding the economic implications of environmental stressors and developing adaptive mechanisms that enhance productivity, equity, and sustainable livelihoods in agrarian economies.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar\

Featured Publications:

Ajayi, C. O., & Olutumise, A. I. (2018). Determinants of food security and technical efficiency of cassava farmers in Ondo State, Nigeria. International Food and Agribusiness Management Review, 21(7), 915–928.

Olutumise, A. I. (2023). Impact of credit on the climate adaptation utilization among food crop farmers in Southwest, Nigeria: Application of endogenous treatment Poisson regression model. Agricultural and Food Economics, 11(1), 7.

Oseni, J. O., Olutumise, A. I., & Olutumise, B. O. (2018). Performance evaluation of cocoa marketing in Osun State, Nigeria. Jurnal Perspektif Pembiayaan dan Pembangunan Daerah, 6(1), 97–112.

Olutumise, A. I., Ajibefun, I. A., & Omonijo, A. G. (2021). Effect of climate variability on healthcare expenditure of food crop farmers in Southwest, Nigeria. International Journal of Biometeorology, 65(6), 951–961.

Olutumise, A. I. (2022). Determinants of market participation and preference for production of pepper (Capsicum spp.) among farmers in Southwest, Nigeria. Heliyon, 8(9).

Sandra Cunha Gonçalves | Materials Science and Engineering | Women Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Sandra Cunha Gonçalves | Materials Science and Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Research Teacher | Federal Institute of Bahia | Brazil

Prof. Dr. Sandra Cunha Gonçalves has developed a solid academic and scientific career in Civil Engineering, Sustainability, and Environmental Studies, focusing on innovative solutions for the reuse of waste materials in the construction industry. Her research emphasizes solid waste management and the development of eco-friendly materials that incorporate vegetal fibers, modified starch, recycled gypsum, and other industrial by-products to minimize environmental impacts and promote sustainable practices in social housing. Gonçalves has contributed to advancing sustainable construction technologies through the creation of composites and biocomposites with improved physical and mechanical properties, offering alternatives to conventional materials with high energy consumption. Her ongoing projects explore life cycle analysis of materials, the use of green coconut fibers, and polymeric emulsions in gypsum matrices, generating significant results for structural efficiency and environmental performance. Her scientific output includes publications in national and international journals, book chapters, and conference presentations on sustainability, bioconstruction, and waste management. In addition to her research, she promotes extension activities that integrate social technology, environmental education, and vernacular architecture, strengthening the connection between science, culture, and community. At the Federal Institute of Bahia, Gonçalves leads research groups focused on material innovation and environmental education, mentoring new researchers committed to socio-environmental responsibility and construction efficiency. Her professional journey is distinguished by a strong dedication to sustainability, the integration of applied science with technical education, and the continuous pursuit of viable solutions that balance technical performance with the preservation of natural resources.

Profile: ORCID
Featured Publications
Gonçalves, S. C., da Silva Junior, M. F., Souza, M. T., de Amorim Júnior, N. S., & Ribeiro, D. V. (2025). Physicomechanical properties of recycled gypsum composites with polyvinyl acetate emulsion and treated short green coconut fibers. Buildings.

Abdelrahman Elbakheit | Sustainable Architecture | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Abdelrahman Elbakheit | Sustainable Architecture | Best Researcher Award

Associate Prof | King Saud University | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Abdelrahman Elbakheit’s research focuses on the integration of renewable energy systems into sustainable architectural design, emphasizing building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), wind turbines, and their optimization for energy-efficient buildings. His work bridges the fields of architecture, engineering, and environmental design, exploring hybrid systems that combine solar and wind energy technologies to enhance building performance and sustainability. Through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, design experimentation, and real-world case studies, his studies have provided innovative frameworks for improving energy generation efficiency in tall buildings and façade systems. He has contributed to the development of Saudi Arabia’s Green Building Code and authored numerous influential publications addressing topics such as ducted photovoltaic façade systems, aerofoil wing integration for wind energy, and bioclimatic high-rise design. His book and journal works extend from evaluating design parameters to proposing new architectural solutions that merge aesthetics with renewable functionality. Dr. Elbakheit’s expertise also extends to teaching, sustainable project consultancy, and reviewing for international journals such as Energy and Buildings and Solar Energy. His contributions have earned recognition through patents for rooftop wind turbine supports and several awards for innovation and research excellence. With consistent involvement in academic, industrial, and policy-related sustainability initiatives, Dr. Elbakheit continues to advance the integration of renewable technologies within the built environment, influencing the global shift toward climate-responsive architecture and resilient urban development.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID
Featured Publications:

Elbakheit, A. R. (2012). Why tall buildings? The potential of sustainable technologies in tall. International Journal of High-Rise Buildings, 1(2), 117–123.

Elbakheit, A. R. (2019). A ducted photovoltaic façade unit with buoyancy cooling: Part I experiment. Buildings, 9(4), 88.

Elbakheit, A. R. (2018). Effect of turbine resistance and positioning on performance of Aerofoil wing building augmented wind energy generation. Energy and Buildings, 174, 365–371.

Elbakheit, A. R. (2008). Effect of duct width in ducted photovoltaic facades. Proceedings of the CTBUH 8th World Congress, Dubai, UAE, 3–5.

Elbakheit, A. R. (2019). A ducted photovoltaic façade unit with buoyancy cooling: Part II CFD simulation. Buildings, 9(5), 133.

Jialiang Zhu | Mining safety | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Jialiang Zhu | Mining safety | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral Candidate | Anhui University of Science and Technology | China

Mr. Jialiang Zhu from Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, China, focuses research efforts on advanced cement-based materials with a particular interest in optimizing their performance for engineering applications. Zhu’s work integrates computational modeling with experimental techniques to enhance material durability, bonding strength, and toughness—critical parameters for improving the reliability of construction materials. The recent publication titled “Multi-objective optimization of toughness and bonding strength in cement-based sealing materials using RSM coupled with NSGA-II hybrid approach: Performance evaluation and engineering application analysis,” published in Construction and Building Materials (2025), highlights Zhu’s expertise in applying multi-objective optimization algorithms to analyze and refine the mechanical and structural performance of cementitious systems. The study demonstrates a strong focus on the practical engineering relevance of materials, where computational intelligence tools such as the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) are utilized to achieve optimal trade-offs between conflicting performance metrics. This integrative methodology contributes to developing sustainable and resilient building materials with improved structural integrity and sealing capabilities. Zhu’s research underscores a commitment to bridging theoretical modeling and real-world engineering implementation, addressing contemporary challenges in construction materials’ environmental efficiency and structural optimization. Although currently represented by two Scopus-indexed publications, the work exhibits significant methodological innovation and interdisciplinary value, combining material science, computational optimization, and civil engineering applications. The research direction indicates promising potential for future studies focusing on smart materials, eco-efficient concrete technologies, and computational design frameworks for performance prediction. The integration of data-driven optimization with experimental validation sets a strong foundation for future advancements in sustainable infrastructure materials. 0 Citations 2 Documents 0 h-index.

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Featured Publications

Multi-objective optimization of toughness and bonding strength in cement-based sealing materials using RSM coupled with NSGA-II hybrid approach: Performance evaluation and engineering application analysis. Construction and Building Materials.

Zhou Ji | FRP reinforced concrete structure | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Zhou Ji | FRP Reinforced Concrete Structure | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Nanjing Forestry University | China

Zhou Ji is a dedicated civil engineering researcher specializing in steel–concrete composite structures and marine or offshore concrete systems, with extensive academic and practical expertise in structural performance and durability. As a doctoral researcher at Guangxi University under Professor Zongping Chen, Zhou has contributed significantly to the understanding of mechanical behaviors, bond characteristics, and seismic performance of advanced composite materials. Zhou has led one Guangxi postgraduate education innovation project and participated in six national and provincial-level research programs focusing on areas such as high-temperature damage assessment, corrosion-resistant marine concrete, and long-lifespan transport hub structures. The research has resulted in 9 SCI-indexed papers and 10 EI-indexed papers as the first author, including publications in high-impact journals like Engineering Structures, Construction and Building Materials, and Journal of Composites for Construction-ASCE. Zhou’s studies on CFRP-steel composite bars in coral sea-sand seawater concrete have provided key insights into bond behavior, structural strength, and post-fire performance, contributing to sustainable marine construction. In addition to academic publications, Zhou has secured four national patents and participated in developing a Guangxi provincial standard. Recognition of excellence includes numerous national and provincial scholarships and awards, such as the Liu Huixian Earthquake Engineering Award and multiple National Scholarship distinctions. The research achievements reflect a deep commitment to advancing composite structural technologies that enhance resilience and sustainability in coastal infrastructure. With a strong foundation in both experimental and numerical analysis, Zhou continues to explore innovative materials and design approaches that address environmental challenges in modern civil engineering. 409 Citations, 16 Documents, and an h-index of 11

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Chen, Z., Zhou, J., Jing, C., & Tan, Q. (2021). Mechanical behavior of spiral stirrup reinforced concrete filled square steel tubular columns under compression. Engineering Structures, 226, 111377.

Chen, Z., Xu, W., & Zhou, J. (2022). Mechanical performance of marine concrete filled CFRP–aluminum alloy tube columns under axial compression: Experiment and finite element analysis. Engineering Structures, 272, 114993.

Chen, Z., Li, S., Zhou, J., Xu, R., & Dai, S. (2022). Flexural behavior of GFRP bars reinforced seawater sea sand concrete beams exposed to marine environment: Experimental and numerical study. Construction and Building Materials, 349, 128784.

Chen, Z., Pang, Y., Xu, R., Zhou, J., & Xu, W. (2022). Mechanical performance of ocean concrete-filled circular CFRP–steel tube columns under axial compression. Journal of Constructional Steel Research, 198, 107514.

Zhou, J., Chen, Z., Chen, Y., Song, C., Li, J., & Zhong, M. (2022). Torsional behavior of steel reinforced concrete beam with welded studs: Experimental investigation. Journal of Building Engineering, 48, 103879.