Seyed Hamidreza Ghaffar - Sustainable Development - Outstanding Scientist Award
Head of Engineering Department at University of Birmingham
Seyed Hamidreza Ghaffar is an Associate Professor in Civil Engineering and Head of the Engineering Department at the University of Birmingham Dubai. His expertise bridges academia and industry, with leadership in research on sustainable construction, 3D printing, and low-carbon materials. He founded the Additive Manufacturing Technology in Construction (AMTC) centre, driving innovation in eco-friendly building practices. Over his career, he has managed research grants exceeding £2 million and authored more than 90 publications, advancing the global conversation on circular economy principles in construction.
Professional Profile
Education
Seyed Ghaffar holds a PhD in Civil Engineering Material Sciences from Brunel University of London, supported by an Industrial Cooperative Awards in Science & Technology (CASE) sponsorship. He also earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering with First Class Honours from the same institution. His academic journey provided a strong foundation in materials science, structural engineering, and sustainable construction, enabling him to merge theoretical understanding with practical applications in engineering projects and academic leadership roles worldwide.
Professional Experience
With a career spanning roles from Postdoctoral Research Associate to Associate Professor, Seyed Ghaffar has contributed significantly to academia and industry. He led the Engineering Department in Dubai, previously serving at Brunel University London in various academic and administrative capacities. His expertise extends to programme development, industry partnerships, and research supervision. He has served as an expert evaluator for European Commission projects, reviewer for funding bodies, and editor for leading engineering journals, reinforcing his influence in the global engineering community.
Research Interest
Research interests centre on sustainable construction materials, additive manufacturing, and the circular economy. Seyed Ghaffar focuses on developing low-carbon technologies for new builds and retrofitting, recycling construction and demolition waste, and advancing 3D printing applications in civil engineering. His work also explores integrating bio-based materials, enhancing durability, and optimising concrete for sustainability. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, he aims to transform construction practices into more resource-efficient, environmentally responsible processes, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Award And Honor
Recognised for his academic and research contributions, Seyed Ghaffar has received multiple awards, including the Award for Excellence and Teaching Support of the Year from Brunel University London. His early career achievements earned him the Institute of Structural Engineers Prize and Graham Hawkes Award for best final-year project. His professional honours include Fellowship of the Institution of Civil Engineers, Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy, and membership in the Institute of Concrete Technology, highlighting his respected standing in engineering circles.
Research Skill
Seyed Ghaffar’s skills span advanced material characterisation, mix design optimisation for 3D printing, and life cycle analysis of construction materials. Proficient in both experimental and computational techniques, he applies methodologies such as rheology testing, durability assessment, and finite element modelling. His research leadership involves securing and managing multi-partner grants, mentoring PhD candidates, and delivering impactful publications. This diverse expertise enables him to translate scientific innovation into practical engineering solutions that address environmental and industry challenges.
Publications
With over 90 peer-reviewed publications, Seyed Ghaffar’s work appears in high-impact journals such as Construction and Building Materials and Journal of Cleaner Production. His research covers topics like bio-based composites, recycled aggregates, and digital fabrication in construction. He has co-authored influential book chapters and edited the volume Innovation in Construction, showcasing advancements in industry practices. Many of his papers result from collaborations with graduate students, reflecting his dedication to fostering academic growth and producing high-quality, industry-relevant research.
Title: Pathways to circular construction: An integrated management of construction and demolition waste for resource recovery
Authors: S.H. Ghaffar, M. Burnman, N. Braimah
Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production, 244, 2020
Title: Additive manufacturing technology and its implementation in construction as an eco-innovative solution
Authors: S.H. Ghaffar
Journal: Automation in Construction, 93, 2018
Title: Structural analysis for lignin characteristics in biomass straw
Authors: S.H. Ghaffar, M. Fan
Journal: Biomass and Bioenergy, 57, 2013
Title: Lignin in straw and its applications as an adhesive
Authors: S.H. Ghaffar, M. Fan
Journal: International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives, 48, 2014
Title: Fracture and impact properties of short discrete jute fibre-reinforced cementitious composites
Authors: X. Zhou, S.H. Ghaffar, W. Dong, O. Oladiran, M. Fan
Journal: Materials & Design, 49, 2013
Conclusion
Seyed Ghaffar’s career reflects a blend of academic excellence, innovative research, and professional leadership in civil engineering. Through pioneering work in sustainable construction and additive manufacturing, he has shaped industry practices and influenced policy directions. His contributions extend beyond research, encompassing teaching, mentoring, and international collaboration. By championing circular economy principles and eco-innovative solutions, he continues to inspire transformative change in the built environment, positioning himself as a leading figure in global engineering innovation.