Rao Arsalan Khushnood – Concrete Materials – Best Researcher Award

Rao Arsalan Khushnood - Concrete Materials - Best Researcher Award

Professor at Abasyn University, Pakistan

Rao Arsalan Khushnood serves as the Research Lead and Deputy Director at the Tunneling Institute of Pakistan, Islamabad. Currently an Adjunct Professor at Abasyn University, his professional journey encompasses structural engineering expertise and sustainable construction advocacy. As CEO of Structax Consultants Pvt Ltd, he brings academic depth and industry foresight. Over the years, he has led numerous research projects and industry collaborations with national and international institutions. Recognized for innovation and scientific contributions, he has received several honors. Rao Arsalan Khushnood’s leadership continues to shape infrastructure resilience, sustainability, and knowledge dissemination across academic, research, and professional platforms.

Professional Profile

Scopus | Google Scholar

Education

Rao Arsalan Khushnood holds a Ph.D. in Structural Engineering from Politecnico di Torino, Italy, where he developed innovative multifunctional concrete using nano carbonaceous inerts. His master's and bachelor’s degrees in Civil Engineering were both earned from the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad. His academic pursuits have consistently focused on sustainable materials and structural advancements, evidenced through thesis and project topics addressing green concrete and self-compacting concrete technologies. These academic foundations have significantly influenced his trajectory as a researcher and educator, particularly in the development of sustainable and high-performance construction materials for infrastructure applications.

Professional Experience

Currently serving in multiple leadership roles, Rao Arsalan Khushnood is an Adjunct Professor at Abasyn University and Deputy Director of Sustainability at the Tunneling Institute of Pakistan. His industry role as CEO of Structax Consultants complements his academic background. Formerly, he held prestigious positions at NUST, including Associate Professor, Director of the Quality Enhancement Cell, and Head of Structural Engineering. Throughout his career, he has bridged research with real-world applications, leading impactful collaborations. His extensive teaching experience, including international roles, reflects his commitment to knowledge-sharing, particularly in advanced structural mechanics and the application of sustainable materials.

Research Interest

Research interests of Rao Arsalan Khushnood span multi-scale characterization of cementitious composites, additive manufacturing of concrete, self-healing mechanisms, and AI-driven predictive modeling. His work emphasizes low-carbon construction, valorization of industrial waste, and life cycle assessment for infrastructure materials. A strong advocate for sustainability, he explores how microstructural evolution influences durability under aggressive environments. His computational-experimental approach bridges fundamental material behavior with performance forecasting, enabling advancements in structural resilience and smart infrastructure. Rao Arsalan Khushnood integrates engineering principles with innovative technologies, contributing significantly to civil engineering practices that are environmentally responsible and functionally optimized for modern challenges.

Award and Honor

Rao Arsalan Khushnood has received numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions to civil engineering. Recognized as the Top Researcher in Pakistan by the AD Scientific Index, he secured a Gold Medal in 2025. He earned multiple awards for student project supervision, including positions in international competitions like the fib YMG and ACI Concrete Competition. NUST honored him with the Best Innovator Award and accolades for securing maximum grants. His research excellence was also acknowledged internationally through the Belt and Road Young Scientist Award in China. These honors underscore his impactful contributions to research, innovation, and academic leadership.

Research Skill

Expertise of Rao Arsalan Khushnood includes experimental testing, microstructural analysis, advanced material synthesis, and machine learning applications for infrastructure materials. His skills extend to forensic structural assessments, sustainable design, and performance evaluation of concrete under extreme conditions. He is adept in computational tools for service life prediction and has managed multidisciplinary projects involving AI integration and life cycle assessment. With over a decade of hands-on research experience, his technical command spans from nanoscale modification of materials to large-scale structural retrofitting. These competencies support his innovative solutions in developing high-performance, eco-efficient concrete technologies and infrastructure systems.

Publications

With 99 peer-reviewed journal articles and 22 conference publications, Rao Arsalan Khushnood has established a significant footprint in the field of sustainable construction materials. His work has garnered over 4,000 citations with an h-index of 37. His publications span topics including bio-inspired concrete, self-healing mechanisms, AI-based modeling, and durability enhancement of eco-concretes. Notable journals include Construction and Building Materials, Journal of Building Engineering, and Journal of Cleaner Production. His research is often collaborative, involving national and international scholars. In addition, he has contributed to four book chapters and delivered keynote speeches at global conferences on sustainability and civil engineering.

Title: Utilization of Pakistani bentonite as partial replacement of cement in concrete
Authors: SA Memon, R Arsalan, S Khan, TY Lo
Journal: Construction and Building Materials, 30, 237–242

Title: Comparative performance of different bacteria immobilized in natural fibers for self-healing in concrete
Authors: M Rauf, W Khaliq, RA Khushnood, I Ahmed
Journal: Construction and Building Materials, 258, 119578

Title: Durability of sustainable concrete subjected to elevated temperature–A review
Authors: SA Memon, SFA Shah, RA Khushnood, WL Baloch
Journal: Construction and Building Materials, 199, 435–455

Title: Bio-mineralized self-healing recycled aggregate concrete for sustainable infrastructure
Authors: RA Khushnood, ZA Qureshi, N Shaheen, S Ali
Journal: Science of The Total Environment, 703, 135007

Title: High performance self-consolidating cementitious composites by using micro carbonized bamboo particles
Authors: S Ahmad, RA Khushnood, P Jagdale, JM Tulliani, GA Ferro
Journal: Materials & Design, 76, 223–229

Conclusion

Rao Arsalan Khushnood exemplifies academic excellence, research innovation, and industry leadership in structural engineering. His multifaceted contributions—from pioneering eco-friendly materials to influencing engineering education—highlight his commitment to sustainable infrastructure. With a strong publication record, numerous awards, and active engagement in high-impact projects, he continues to inspire advancements in civil engineering. As a mentor, collaborator, and innovator, his work bridges scientific inquiry with real-world applications, ensuring durable and resilient structures for the future. Rao Arsalan Khushnood remains a vital force in shaping the evolution of sustainable construction practices within both academic and professional domains.

Amr Ghoniem | Concrete | Best Innovation Award

Dr Amr Ghoniem | Concrete | Best Innovation Award

Lecturer, Zagazig university, Egypt

Amr Ghoniem is a dedicated researcher and lecturer in Structural Engineering at Zagazig University, Egypt, with over 10 years of teaching and research experience. Specializing in concrete and steel structure technologies, his work focuses on sustainability and innovative material applications. He leads research projects, mentors graduate and undergraduate students, and contributes to numerous academic publications. With a passion for both teaching and advancing research in structural engineering, Ghoniem’s goal is to shape the future of sustainable concrete and steel structures. 🌍📚

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Orcid

Scopus

STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD

Amr Ghoniem exhibits a strong track record in the field of structural engineering, with a notable focus on sustainable concrete and material technology. With over a decade of teaching experience at Zagazig University, his dedication to both education and research is evident. His extensive work in reinforced concrete, numerical analysis, and self-healing concrete systems is a significant contribution to the field. Ghoniem’s publication record is impressive, with key articles on innovative concrete technologies such as self-repairing concrete and fiber-reinforced systems. His leadership in research projects, along with the mentoring of students, further strengthens his profile as an exceptional academic.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

While Ghoniem’s research is impactful, expanding his collaborations on a global scale could further elevate his work. Strengthening ties with international research communities and exploring interdisciplinary research projects could lead to even more groundbreaking findings. Increased visibility in major global conferences and greater involvement in leadership roles within professional engineering organizations could boost his academic and research influence.

EDUCATION

Amr Ghoniem completed his B.Sc. in Civil Engineering at Zagazig University in 2010, graduating with a very good grade. He went on to earn his Master’s Degree in Structural Engineering in 2016, followed by a Ph.D. in Structural Engineering in 2020. His doctoral thesis focused on “Self-Repairing Concrete Beams with Bacillus Subtilis Bacteria and Polyethylene Fiber.” Ghoniem’s educational journey is a testament to his commitment to academic excellence and sustainable engineering. 🎓📖

EXPERIENCE

Since 2010, Amr Ghoniem has been a lecturer in the Structural Engineering Department at Zagazig University. His professional expertise includes teaching, conducting research, and supervising graduate and undergraduate projects. His work spans a variety of projects related to concrete and steel structures, especially in sustainability and innovative material use. He actively contributes to research proposals and journals and has extensive involvement in educational advancements within the engineering field. 🏫🔬

AWARDS AND HONORS

Amr Ghoniem has been recognized for his exceptional research in structural engineering. Notably, his contributions to sustainable concrete materials have garnered him several accolades in the academic community. His work on self-repairing concrete beams and innovative materials has led to publication in several high-impact journals. Ghoniem’s continuous pursuit of excellence in both research and teaching is reflected in his numerous awards and honors. 🏆🎖️

RESEARCH FOCUS

Ghoniem’s research focuses on reinforced concrete, self-healing concrete, and numerical analysis of concrete structures. He is particularly interested in the behavior of concrete structures under various conditions, using innovative materials such as Bacillus subtilis bacteria and polyethylene fibers. His work aims to improve the sustainability and longevity of concrete structures while integrating advanced technology to optimize construction practices. 🌱🔧

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

  • Experimental Investigation into the Properties of Crumb Rubberized Concrete Incorporating Corrugated Round Steel Fibers (2024) 📄
  • Glass Fiber for Improved Behavior of Light Expanded Clay Aggregate Concrete Beams: An Experimental Study (2023) 📄
  • Deep Learning Shear Capacity Prediction of Fibrous Recycled Aggregate Concrete Beams Strengthened by Side Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Sheets (2022) 📄
  • Inducing Competence-Based Assignment in Traditional Structural Engineering Education: A Case Study (2022) 📄
  • Behavior of Macro-Synthetic Fiber-Reinforced High-Strength Concrete Beams Incorporating Bacillus Subtilis Bacteria (2021) 📄
  • Self-Repairing Polyethylene Fiber-Reinforced-Concrete with Bacillus Subtilis Bacteria: A Review (2020) 📄
  • Analysis of Reinforced Concrete D-Regions Using Strut-and-Tie Model (2016) 📄

CONCLUSION

Amr Ghoniem’s dedication to advancing the field of structural engineering through both teaching and impactful research makes him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His focus on sustainable materials and innovative engineering solutions positions him as a forward-thinking researcher with the potential to make significant contributions to the future of civil engineering. Expanding his international network and collaborations will further enhance his visibility and influence in the academic and research community.

Amirali Milani | Concrete Beams | Best Researcher Award

Amirali Milani | Concrete Beams | Best Researcher Award

Additive manufacturing lead researcher, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran

Amirali Milani is a dedicated researcher and engineer in the field of mechanical engineering, with a focus on additive manufacturing and advanced materials. He is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Tarbiat Modares University, Iran, under the guidance of Prof. Amir H. Behravesh and Prof. Ghaus Rizvi. Amirali’s research interests lie in the areas of 3D printing, biopolymers, and cementitious composite materials. He has developed expertise in various additive manufacturing techniques, particularly in direct ink writing (DIW) and fused deposition modeling (FDM). He has also gained hands-on experience working as a mechanical design engineer, where he played a pivotal role in the development of high-speed 3D printers. Amirali’s work in the biomedical sector, especially on biodegradable and biocompatible materials, aims to contribute to advancements in medical devices and tissue engineering.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

Amirali Milani’s research focuses on cutting-edge areas of additive manufacturing and advanced materials, demonstrating his deep expertise in the intersection of 3D printing, biopolymers, and cementitious composite materials. His contributions to improving the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of 3D-printed materials, particularly in the biomedical field (e.g., hernia repair meshes), are notable. His involvement in publishing papers in high-impact journals like Engineering Failure Analysis and Scientific Reports reflects his capacity for rigorous academic work. His experience at Ayhan AM Co. in designing commercial 3D printers further highlights his practical application of research and engineering skills. His involvement in both academic research and industry projects demonstrates a strong blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Areas for Improvement

While Amirali has shown great strength in additive manufacturing and biopolymers, there is potential for expanding his work into the broader aspects of mechanical engineering, such as systems integration and optimization in manufacturing processes. Additionally, greater visibility in international collaborations or the development of more patents could enhance his profile.

Education 

Amirali Milani is currently completing his Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Manufacturing at Tarbiat Modares University, Iran. He began his graduate studies in September 2020, working under the supervision of Prof. Amir H. Behravesh (Tarbiat Modares University) and Prof. Ghaus Rizvi (Ontario Tech University). Amirali holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Babol Noshirvani University of Technology, Iran, where he graduated in September 2020. During his undergraduate studies, he focused on manufacturing processes and material optimization under the guidance of Prof. Mohammad Bakhshi-Jooybari. Amirali’s academic journey has given him a deep understanding of advanced manufacturing techniques, materials science, and the practical applications of 3D printing in engineering. His studies are heavily focused on improving the mechanical properties of additive manufactured products and exploring new materials for innovative applications in both engineering and biomedical fields.

Experience 

Amirali Milani has gained valuable experience in mechanical design and research, particularly in the field of additive manufacturing. As a Mechanical Design Engineer at Ayhan AM Co., Iran, he worked from April to July 2023, where he was instrumental in redesigning and developing high-speed commercial 3D printers (models AP+ and Aydu3). He also contributed to debugging and completing the firmware (Marlin2) for specific printer models, enhancing their performance and functionality. Amirali also completed a summer internship at Niroo Research Institute in 2019, where he worked in the Rotary Equipment Section. During this time, he focused on evaluating the corrosion behavior of additively manufactured Inconel 625 under high temperatures and harsh environments. His hands-on experience in designing and optimizing 3D printing technology, combined with his research on materials science, has allowed him to contribute to innovative advancements in additive manufacturing, materials testing, and biomedical applications.

Awards and Honors 

Amirali Milani’s academic and professional achievements have earned him recognition for his contributions to mechanical engineering and additive manufacturing. He has been commended for his research excellence and was selected to work under the guidance of renowned professors at both Tarbiat Modares University and Ontario Tech University. His work on improving the mechanical properties of 3D-printed materials has been accepted for publication in prestigious journals such as Engineering Failure Analysis and Scientific Reports. Amirali’s research on biocompatible materials, particularly in the development of hernia repair meshes, has garnered attention in both academic and industrial sectors. His outstanding work on optimizing 3D-printed reinforced concrete beams has also contributed to advancements in construction materials. These accolades reflect his growing influence in the additive manufacturing field. His passion for sustainable and cutting-edge technologies continues to drive his research towards creating innovative solutions in both the biomedical and engineering sectors.

Research Focus 

Amirali Milani’s research focuses on the intersection of additive manufacturing, material science, and biomedical engineering. His primary areas of interest include extrusion-based 3D printing techniques such as Direct Ink Writing (DIW) and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), with a particular focus on polymers, biodegradable biopolymers, and cementitious composite materials. Amirali explores the mechanical properties of 3D-printed materials, evaluating their strength, fracture dynamics, and biocompatibility, particularly for applications in biomedical devices such as surgical meshes. He has conducted extensive research on the use of polycaprolactone-cellulose composites for hernia repair, aiming to improve the durability and biocompatibility of medical devices. Additionally, Amirali is investigating the optimization of 3D-printed concrete for construction applications, exploring different reinforcement patterns and their impact on material strength and failure. His research contributes to both the practical and theoretical development of additive manufacturing, aiming to create more sustainable and functional materials for diverse industrial and medical uses.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Optimization of 3D-Printing Reinforced Concrete Beams with Four Types of Reinforced Patterns and Different Distances 🏗️📊
    Engineering Failure Analysis – Accept – Nov. 18, 2024
  2. Experimental Investigation of Mechanical Properties and Fracture Dynamics in 3D-Printed Fiber-Reinforced Silica Fume-Cemented Sand 🔬🧱
    Scientific Reports – Under Review
  3. Fabrication of Polycaprolactone-Cellulose Composite Hernia Repair Mesh via Direct Ink Writing: Evaluating Mechanical Properties and Biocompatibility 🩺🩹
    Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials – Submitted

Conclusion

Amirali Milani is a promising researcher with significant contributions to additive manufacturing and biomedical applications. His focus on sustainable materials and 3D printing technology is highly relevant and timely, placing him as a strong contender for the Research for Best Researcher Award. With further development in patenting, broader industry collaborations, and extending his work into new domains, Amirali has the potential to become a leader in his field.

Mohammad Rasul Givkashi – Concrete technology – Best Researcher Award

Mohammad Rasul Givkashi - Concrete technology - Best Researcher Award

Amirkabir University of Technology Department of Civil Engineering - Iran

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

RESEARCH INTERESTS

MohammadRasul Givkashi, a distinguished scholar at Amirkabir University of Technology, has dedicated his research to advancing the field of civil engineering. His primary interests include new construction technologies, innovative construction materials, green and smart buildings, 3D printing of buildings, and special concretes. His work focuses on enhancing the sustainability, efficiency, and durability of construction practices.

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Givkashi completed his Master of Science in Civil Engineering, specializing in Construction Management, at Amirkabir University of Technology in Tehran, Iran, from 2021 to 2024. His outstanding academic performance is reflected in his perfect GPA of 4.0 (18.95/20). His thesis, supervised by Dr. Faramarz Moodi, investigated the durability assessment of 3D printed concrete with air-entraining admixture. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the same university, achieved in 2021 with a GPA of 3.9 (18.17/20).

HONORS AND AWARDS

Throughout his academic career, Givkashi has received numerous accolades, including ranking 1st in Civil Engineering with a major in Construction Management among his peers at Amirkabir University of Technology in 2020. He was also included in the facilities of the National Elite Foundation for two consecutive years and received 'Straight' M.Sc. Admission Offers to top universities in Iran due to his high GPA.

RESEARCH PROJECTS

Givkashi has actively participated in several significant research projects. These include modeling composite reinforced concrete columns using finite element software, designing highways and residential buildings, and contributing to the Smart Schools Plan under the National Elite Foundation. His projects, supervised by renowned academics such as Dr. Aliakbar Ramezanianpor and Dr. Alireza Rahai, highlight his expertise in both theoretical and practical aspects of civil engineering.

PUBLICATIONS

His research contributions are well-documented in reputable journals. Notable publications include a comparative study on the fineness of low-grade calcined clays on the properties of blended concretes in the Civil Engineering Infrastructures Journal, and a feasibility study on 3D printing concrete for building construction in the AUT Journal of Civil Engineering. His work has also explored the simulation of evacuation in educational buildings and the factors affecting the drying shrinkage and compressive strength of slag geopolymer mortar mixtures.

PROJECT SUPERVISION

Givkashi has demonstrated strong leadership in guiding research projects. He has worked on the durability of 3D printed concrete, highway design, and the design of residential buildings with both reinforced concrete and steel frames. His supervision has helped shape innovative solutions in civil engineering, emphasizing practical applications and sustainability.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

In addition to his academic achievements, Givkashi has actively engaged in professional development through his involvement in the National Elite Foundation and participation in faculty Olympiad teams. His dedication to continuous learning and professional growth underscores his commitment to advancing the field of civil engineering.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO CIVIL ENGINEERING

Givkashi's contributions to civil engineering are substantial, encompassing innovative research, impactful publications, and active participation in significant projects. His work not only advances academic knowledge but also provides practical solutions to contemporary challenges in construction and infrastructure development. His commitment to excellence and innovation makes him a valuable asset to the field of civil engineering.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Effects of different types of fibers on fresh and hardened properties of cement and geopolymer-based 3D printed mixtures: a review.
    • Authors: A Ramezani, S Modaresi, P Dashti, MR GivKashi, F Moodi, ...
    • Year: 2023
  • Software simulation of chloride ions penetration into composite of pre-fabricated geopolymer permanent formworks (PGPFs) and substrate concrete.
    • Authors: ER Dehkordi, F Moodi, MR GivKashi, AA Ramezanianpour, M Khani
    • Year: 2022
  • Considerations for the Construction, Implementation and Economic Evaluation of Geopolymer Permanent Formworks (GPFs): A New Approach to Protect Concrete Structures Against...
    • Authors: E Riahi Dehkordi, MR GivKashi
    • Year: 2023
  • Investigating the applications of geopolymer mixtures, focusing on the repair and strengthening of reinforced concrete structures: A Review.
    • Authors: MR Givkashi, F Moodi
    • Year: 2022
  • Investigation of Affecting Factors on Drying Shrinkage and Compressive Strength of Slag Geopolymer Mortar Mixture.
    • Authors: E Riahi Dehkordi, F Moodi, MR GivKashi, AA Ramezanianpour
    • Year: 2023

Gholamreza Baghban Golpasand – Fiber Reinforced Concrete – Environmental Leadership in Civil Engineering Award

Gholamreza Baghban Golpasand - Fiber Reinforced Concrete - Environmental Leadership in Civil Engineering Award

Seraj higher education of institute - Iran

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

GHOLAMREZA BAGHBAN GOLPASAND: EXPERT IN STEEL FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE 🏗️

Gholamreza Baghban Golpasand is a distinguished researcher at Seraj Higher Education Institute, specializing in the behavior of recycled steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) under various stress conditions. His work delves into the uniaxial cyclic compression and biaxial tests of SFRC, significantly contributing to the understanding and improvement of construction materials.

PIONEER IN STEEL FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE RESEARCH 🏢

Gholamreza has made notable advancements in the study of steel fiber reinforced concrete, focusing on its performance under uniaxial cyclic compression and biaxial tests. His research is crucial for enhancing the durability and resilience of construction materials, which is vital for modern infrastructure.

FEM INVESTIGATION OF SFRCs USING SUBSTEPPING INTEGRATION 📊

One of his significant research contributions includes the finite element method (FEM) investigation of SFRCs. He employs a substepping integration approach for constitutive equations, providing a more accurate and detailed analysis of SFRC behavior. This method improves the predictive capabilities for the material's performance under various conditions.

CITATIONS AND RESEARCH IMPACT 📚

Since 2019, Gholamreza's work has garnered 49 citations, reflecting the impact and relevance of his research in the field of concrete technology. His citation count is a testament to the significance of his contributions to the academic and engineering communities.

ACADEMIC INFLUENCE: H-INDEX AND I10-INDEX 📈

Gholamreza boasts an h-index of 2 and an i10-index of 1, indicating his research's influence and the number of publications that have received significant citations. These metrics highlight his role as a leading researcher in the field of steel fiber reinforced concrete.

ADVANCING CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS SCIENCE 🔧

Through his work, Gholamreza is advancing the science of construction materials, particularly recycled steel fiber reinforced concrete. His research addresses critical aspects of material performance, contributing to the development of more sustainable and durable construction practices.

EDUCATOR AND MENTOR AT SERAJ HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTE 🎓

At Seraj Higher Education Institute, Gholamreza is not only a researcher but also an educator, guiding the next generation of engineers and researchers. His expertise and dedication to teaching ensure that his knowledge and innovations are passed on to future leaders in the field.

COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABILITY AND INNOVATION 🌍

Gholamreza's research emphasizes the use of recycled materials, promoting sustainability in construction. His innovative approaches to material testing and analysis are paving the way for more eco-friendly and efficient building practices, reflecting his commitment to sustainable development.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Triaxial behavior of concrete containing recycled fibers-an experimental study 2023

Investigation on the efficiency of different methods for evaluation of ground settlement due to excavation of Tabriz metro tunnel, line 2 2022 (1)

Behavior of recycled steel fiber reinforced concrete under uniaxial cyclic compression and biaxial tests 2020 (39)

Experimental and numerical investigation of the effect of steel fiber on fiber reinforced concrete under multiaxial compression 2021 (2)