Dr. Innocent Osuizugbo | Construction Management | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at Bells University of Technology, Ota, Nigeria

Dr. Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo is a distinguished researcher and academic in the field of Construction Management, currently serving as a Senior Lecturer at Bells University of Technology, Nigeria. With a Ph.D. in Building and over a decade of combined industry and academic experience, he has made impactful contributions to sustainability, buildability, zero-carbon

, and labour productivity. His prolific scholarly output includes over 20 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact Scopus-indexed journals between 2023 and 2025. He has received several prestigious awards, including a 2025 GES 4.0 Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Johannesburg and multiple Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for research excellence. Dr. Osuizugbo’s research demonstrates both depth and breadth, reflecting a commitment to solving real-world problems in the built environment. His collaborative, multidisciplinary work and international recognition position him as a leading figure in construction research. He is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with proven academic excellence and societal impact.

Professional Profile

Education🎓

Dr. Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo possesses a solid educational foundation in Building and Construction Management. He earned his Ph.D. in Building (Construction Management) from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria, in October 2023, where his research focused on advancing sustainable and efficient construction practices. Prior to this, he obtained a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Construction Management from the University of Lagos in February 2011, equipping him with advanced skills in project planning, execution, and resource management. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc. Hons) in Building from Nnamdi Azikiwe University in July 2007, laying the groundwork for his career in both the construction industry and academia. This comprehensive educational progression has enabled Dr. Osuizugbo to develop a deep understanding of theoretical principles and practical applications in the built environment. His academic achievements have significantly contributed to his reputation as a competent and forward-thinking construction management professional.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo has amassed extensive professional experience across academia and the construction industry. Currently a Senior Lecturer at Bells University of Technology, Ota, Nigeria, he has held progressive academic positions since 2018, including Lecturer II and Lecturer I, demonstrating strong teaching, research, and mentorship capabilities. Before transitioning into academia, he gained valuable field experience as a Project Manager at Harouso Nigeria Limited, Project Engineer with Brisk Integrated Services, and Clerk of Works for Our Lady Queen of Apostle Catholic Church. From 2014 to 2018, he also operated as a self-employed builder, honing his practical skills in construction supervision and project delivery. His diverse experience bridges the gap between theory and practice, enriching his academic approach with real-world insight. Dr. Osuizugbo’s professional journey reflects a blend of leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to innovation in construction management, making him a respected figure both in the academic and professional construction sectors.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo’s research interests are rooted in addressing contemporary challenges within the construction industry, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and performance improvement. He is particularly focused on labour-related issues, such as productivity and apprenticeship systems, aiming to enhance workforce efficiency. His work in sustainable construction explores green building practices, zero-carbon buildings, and environmentally responsible design and development. Dr. Osuizugbo is also deeply engaged in buildability and constructability studies, where he investigates strategies to improve the integration of design and construction processes. In the broader field of construction management, his research spans project performance, procurement systems, health and safety, and compliance mechanisms. Additionally, he has a growing interest in construction education, advocating for modern, technology-driven learning methods in the built environment disciplines. Through his diverse and impactful research, Dr. Osuizugbo contributes meaningfully to advancing knowledge and practice in construction and environmental sustainability.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to research and academia. Most notably, he was awarded the prestigious 2025 GES 4.0 Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa—an international acknowledgment of his research excellence. At Bells University of Technology, he has consistently been recognized with the Vice-Chancellor’s Award of Excellence as Outstanding Researcher of the Year for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, and 2024), underscoring his sustained scholarly impact. He also received the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for publishing in Scopus-indexed journals in 2022, highlighting the quality and global relevance of his publications. In 2024, the National Association of Building Students at Bells University honored him with a Distinguished Service Award for his academic mentorship and service. These accolades reflect Dr. Osuizugbo’s dedication to advancing knowledge, promoting sustainability in construction, and mentoring the next generation of professionals in the built environment.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that have enabled him to make significant contributions to construction management and sustainability studies. He is highly proficient in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including statistical analysis, exploratory and principal factor analysis, and systematic reviews. His ability to design and conduct impactful empirical studies is evident in his numerous peer-reviewed publications in Scopus-indexed journals. Dr. Osuizugbo is skilled in bibliometric analysis, meta-analysis, and the development of conceptual and theoretical frameworks that address critical industry issues. He demonstrates strong capabilities in proposal writing, academic publishing, collaborative research, and interdisciplinary investigations. His proficiency with digital tools and platforms used in academic research enhances his productivity and effectiveness. Furthermore, he excels in translating complex data into actionable insights that benefit both academia and industry. These research competencies have positioned him as a respected thought leader in construction innovation and sustainable building practices.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo stands out as a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His prolific publication record, repeated academic recognition, and focused research on sustainable and innovative construction practices make him a strong contender. With a few strategic enhancements in research leadership and global academic engagement, he is well-positioned to be not only a national but also an international leader in construction research.

Publications Top Noted✍

Title: Barriers to the adoption of sustainable construction
Authors: I.C. Osuizugbo, O. Oyeyipo, A. Lahanmi, A. Morakinyo, O. Olaniyi
Year: 2020
Citations: 65
Title: Building production management practice in the construction industry in Nigeria
Authors: I.C. Osuizugbo, R.A. Ojelabi
Year: 2020
Citations: 43
Title: Improving the Performance of Building Construction Firms through Addressing the Gap of Building Production Management: A New Production Model Approach
Author: I.C. Osuizugbo
Year: 2020
Citations: 36
Title: Disruptions and responses within Nigeria construction industry amid COVID-19 threat
Author: I.C. Osuizugbo
Year: 2020
Citations: 35
Title: Factors inhibiting corporate social responsibility initiatives among construction companies
Authors: I.C. Osuizugbo, O.O. Oyeyipo, R.A. Ojelabi, O.S. Oshodi
Year: 2021
Citations: 17
Title: Conflict management practice among stakeholders in construction project delivery
Authors: I.C. Osuizugbo, T.F. Okuntade
Year: 2020
Citations: 17
Title: Buildability in the construction industry: a systematic review
Authors: I.C. Osuizugbo, K.C. Okolie, O.S. Oshodi, O.O. Oyeyipo
Year: 2023
Citations: 15
Title: Choosing to be a craftsperson: factors influencing career decision-making among apprentices
Authors: I.C. Osuizugbo, P.O. Kukoyi, A.O. Abisuga, K. Ibrahim
Year: 2022
Citations: 15
Title: The need for and benefits of buildability analysis: Nigeria as a case study
Author: I.C. Osuizugbo
Year: 2021
Citations: 14
Title: Pre-Qualification of Selecting Construction Project Contractors Using Health and Safety Criteria
Authors: P.O. Kukoyi, I.C. Osuizugbo, H.S. Yohanna, U.E. Edike, I.E. Ohiseghame
Year: 2021
Citations: 14
Title: Project failure factors affecting building project success in Nigeria: Design and construction phase
Author: I.C. Osuizugbo
Year: 2019
Citations: 13
Title: Builder’s view on the incessant building failures and collapse in Nigeria: A call for an effective national building code
Author: I.C. Osuizugbo
Year: 2018
Citations: 13
Title: Factors supporting the implementation of buildability assessment as a tool for buildability improvement
Authors: I.C. Osuizugbo, K.C. Okolie, O.S. Oshodi
Year: 2024
Citations: Not specified (likely very recent)

Prof Francesco Ruggiero | Applied Physics of the built environment | Best Researcher Award

Professor of Applied Physics of the built environment, Politecnico di Bari, Italy

Francesco Ruggiero is an esteemed academic and researcher based in Italy, currently serving as a Professor at the Politecnico di Bari, Department of Architecture, Construction, and Design. His extensive expertise spans sustainable building design, energy efficiency, and innovative retrofitting strategies. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to environmental sustainability through his research and numerous scholarly publications.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Orcid

Scopus

🎓 EDUCATION

Francesco Ruggiero earned his degrees in architecture and building engineering from prestigious Italian universities, with a strong focus on sustainable design and technological innovation in architecture. His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to integrating environmental principles into the built environment, shaping the next generation of architects and researchers.

💼 EXPERIENCE

Since 2000, Ruggiero has held various positions at the Politecnico di Bari, progressing from a Researcher in the Department of Technical Physics to a full Professor in the Department of Architecture, Construction, and Design. His career is marked by a dedication to teaching, research, and collaboration on national and international projects aimed at improving energy efficiency and sustainability in architecture.

🏆 AWARDS AND HONORS

Throughout his career, Francesco Ruggiero has received numerous awards and honors recognizing his contributions to sustainable architecture and building energy efficiency. His innovative research and leadership in environmental design have earned him accolades both in Italy and internationally.

🔬 RESEARCH FOCUS

Ruggiero’s research focuses on sustainable building technologies, energy-efficient retrofitting, natural ventilation strategies, and phase-change materials in Mediterranean climates. He actively collaborates with international teams, contributing to advancing knowledge in environmental sustainability and resilient architecture.

📚 PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

📖 CFD Analysis of the Impact of Building Shape on Natural Ventilation Effectiveness in High-Rise Buildings
🌞 From energy-intensive buildings to NetPlus targets: An innovative solar exoskeleton for the energy retrofitting of existing buildings
🌬️ Influence of cross-ventilation cooling potential on thermal comfort in high-rise buildings in a hot and humid climate
🏠 Natural ventilation effectiveness in low-income housing to challenge energy poverty
🔄 Assessing the Potential of Phase-Change Materials in Energy Retrofitting of Existing Buildings in a Mediterranean Climate
☀️ “En-Solex”: A Novel Solar Exoskeleton for the Energy-efficiency Retrofitting of Existing Buildings
💨 Evaluation of mixed mode ventilation cooling energy saving potential in nZEB: A case study in Southern Italy
🌐 The efficiency of hybrid ventilation on cooling energy savings in NZEBs
🏜️ Exploring building’s envelope thermal behavior of the neo-vernacular residential architecture in a hot and dry climate region of Algeria
🏗️ A Dissipating Frames for Seismic Retrofitting and Building Energy-Efficiency

✨ CONCLUSION

Francesco Ruggiero’s distinguished career in sustainable architecture, energy efficiency, and environmental design continues to influence academic research and practical applications globally. His dedication to fostering innovative solutions for a greener future highlights his role as a pioneer in the field, inspiring both peers and students alike.

Innocent Osuizugbo | Construction Management | Best Researcher Award