Nikola Vavřínová | Low-carbon Wooden Building | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Ms. Nikola Vavřínová | Low-carbon Wooden Building | Young Scientist Award

Academician at VSB-TU Ostrava, Czech Republic

Dr. Nikola Vavřínová, a dedicated academic and researcher in Civil Engineering, is highly eligible for the Young Scientist Award. At 32 years old, she has already made significant contributions to sustainable construction, particularly in the development and thermal analysis of composite materials and energy-efficient building systems. Her active role as academic staff at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, along with leadership in multiple funded research projects, demonstrates her strong scientific potential. She has published extensively in international journals and presented at global conferences. In addition to research, she has shown excellence in teaching and mentoring students in both Czech and English. Her accolades, including awards from the dean and city scholarships, highlight her recognized achievements. With advanced technical skills and a growing international research presence, Dr. Vavřínová stands out as a promising young scientist whose work aligns with contemporary challenges in sustainable engineering. She is a deserving candidate for this prestigious award.

Professional Profile

Education🎓

Dr. Nikola Vavřínová has pursued a focused and progressive academic path in the field of Civil Engineering at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava. She began her higher education with a Bachelor’s degree (2012–2016) in Construction Preparation and Implementation, followed by a Master’s degree (2016–2018) in Industrial and Building Construction. She further advanced her expertise by completing a Ph.D. (2018–2024) in the Theory of Constructions, demonstrating a strong commitment to deepening her knowledge and research skills in structural engineering and sustainable building practices. Prior to her university education, she laid a solid foundation at the Secondary Technical School of Construction in Valašské Meziříčí (2008–2012), specializing in Civil Engineering. Her academic journey reflects both consistency and dedication to the built environment, enabling her to gain comprehensive knowledge from practical construction principles to advanced theoretical and research-based approaches. This educational background has well-equipped her for her current academic and research roles.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Nikola Vavřínová has built a solid professional career centered on academia and practical experience in the construction industry. Since January 2021, she has served as academic staff at the Department of Building Construction, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, where she is actively involved in teaching, supervising theses, and conducting research in sustainable construction and building technologies. Her role includes delivering lectures in both Czech and English, covering topics such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), building failures, industrial construction, and project design. Prior to this, from May 2016 to February 2018, she worked as a designer in the construction industry at the university’s Research Energy Center, where she gained hands-on experience in practical design and technical solutions. This combination of academic and industry experience has provided her with a well-rounded perspective, enabling her to contribute effectively to both educational and research advancements in civil engineering and energy-efficient building systems.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Nikola Vavřínová’s research interests lie primarily in sustainable civil engineering, with a strong focus on energy-efficient building design, thermal performance analysis, and the development of eco-friendly construction materials. She has been actively involved in the study of composite materials reinforced with natural fibers, such as gypsum-based materials enhanced with straw or wood fibers, aiming to improve mechanical and thermal properties while promoting environmental sustainability. Her work extends to experimental measurements and modeling of the internal microclimate of historic and modern buildings, contributing valuable insights into building performance and occupant comfort. She is also interested in applying Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies in construction processes to improve design accuracy and energy efficiency. Dr. Vavřínová’s research bridges theoretical concepts and practical applications, supporting innovation in green construction and adaptive reuse of existing structures. Her interdisciplinary approach reflects a commitment to addressing current challenges in sustainable building and modern construction technologies.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Nikola Vavřínová has received several awards and honors that highlight her academic excellence and research contributions in civil engineering. She earned 3rd place in the 2016 faculty SVOČ (Student Scientific and Professional Activities) competition, demonstrating early recognition of her research potential. Her diploma thesis was honored by the Dean of the Faculty, acknowledging the quality and impact of her academic work. In the 2019/2020 academic year, she received a prestigious scholarship from the city of Ostrava, awarded to outstanding students for academic merit and achievements. Additionally, she was honored with the Dean’s Prize in the “MSK Construction 2019” competition, specifically for her successful involvement in civil engineering research projects. These accolades reflect her consistent dedication to excellence, innovation, and practical problem-solving in her field. They also underscore her growing reputation as a young leader in sustainable construction and academic research, further supporting her candidacy for prestigious awards.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Nikola Vavřínová possesses strong and diverse research skills, particularly in the field of sustainable civil engineering and building science. She has demonstrated expertise in experimental research, including the measurement and analysis of thermal and mechanical properties of composite materials reinforced with natural fibers. Her ability to model and simulate building microclimates and thermal behavior reflects a solid command of both theoretical knowledge and practical application. As a principal and co-researcher in multiple funded projects, she has showcased skills in research planning, data interpretation, scientific writing, and team collaboration. Her proficiency in software tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Svoboda software, along with basic knowledge of ArchiCAD and advanced use of Microsoft Office, enhances her ability to handle technical aspects of research efficiently. Additionally, her experience in writing and publishing scientific papers, and participating in international conferences, highlights her capability in academic communication and global knowledge exchange.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Nikola Vavřínová is highly suitable for the Young Scientist Award. She demonstrates a solid combination of research excellence, academic dedication, innovation in sustainable civil engineering, and leadership in both research and teaching. With her clear upward trajectory, she is a strong candidate deserving recognition and support to further amplify her contributions to the scientific community.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: Analysis of the Thermal Engineering Properties of Low-Carbon Wooden Buildings Placed Above, Partly Below, and Completely Below Ground Level
    Authors: Kubenková Katerina, Vavřínová Nikola, Fojtík Roman, Plaček Michal
    Year: 2025
    Citation: DOI: 10.1016/j.csite.2025.106566

  • Title: Software for the Multi-Criteria Design of the External Walls Based on User Priority
    Authors: Jiří Majer, Nikola Vavřínová, Kateřina Stejskalová, Lenka Pentková
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.3390/buildings12050647

  • Title: Assessment of the Summer Thermal Stability of the Attic Room Using Two Different Software
    Authors: Kateřina Stejskalová, Nikola Vavřínová
    Year: 2020
    Citation: DOI: 10.2478/cee-2020-0036

  • Title: Assessment of Plinth of Energy-Efficient House Objects
    Authors: Jašek M., Kubenková K., Mynarzová L., Vavřínová N.
    Year: 2019
    Citation: DOI: 10.5593/sgem2019/6.2/S26.005

  • Title: Ignitability Small Attack Flame Fire Test of Gypsum Composite Reinforced with Natural Fibres
    Authors: Teslík J., Hošťálková M., Vavřínová N.
    Year: 2019
    Citation: DOI: 10.1556/1848.2019.0009

  • Title: Mechanical Properties of the Gypsum Composite Reinforcement with Wooden Fibers
    Authors: Hošťálková M., Vavřínová N., Longauerová V.
    Year: 2019
    Citation: DOI: 10.1556/1848.2019.0003

  • Title: The Research of Properties of Composite Materials Based on Plaster with Reinforcement of Natural Fibres
    Authors: Hošťálková M., Vavřínová N., Longauerová V.
    Year: 2018
    Citation: DOI: 10.5593/sgem2018/6.3/S26.055

LIN LIU | Sustainable Development | Women Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Dr. LIN LIU | Sustainable Development | Women Researcher Award

Research Assistant at University of Technology Sydney, Australia

Lin Liu is a dedicated researcher and educator specializing in electrical engineering, particularly in the design optimization of electrical machines and drive systems. Currently, she serves as a Research Assistant at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), where she collaborates with esteemed faculty members on cutting-edge projects in her field. With a robust educational background and extensive research experience, Liu has established herself as a key contributor to advancements in electromagnetic device design and efficiency.

Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Liu’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Engineering in Control and Computer Engineering at North China Electric Power University (NCEPU), followed by a Master of Engineering, where she also earned honors at South Ural State University (SUSU) in Russia. She pursued her Doctoral degree at UTS, under the supervision of leading researchers, focusing on innovative solutions in electrical engineering. Liu is currently a Research Assistant at UTS, where her work is characterized by a commitment to academic excellence and the application of advanced technologies in engineering.

Experience

Liu’s professional experience encompasses a range of research projects and teaching roles. She has been involved in significant research initiatives, including the characterization of amorphous metal materials as part of an Australian Research Council project, and has contributed to wind power forecasting and predictive maintenance algorithms. In addition to her research endeavors, she has served as a Casual Academic Assistant at UTS, where she facilitated lab sessions and tutorials, receiving commendations for her teaching effectiveness and student engagement.

Research Interests

Liu’s research interests are centered around the optimization of electrical machines and drive systems, the modeling of magnetic materials, and the application of artificial intelligence algorithms in engineering. Her innovative approach combines theoretical modeling with experimental validation, leading to significant advancements in energy efficiency and performance in electrical devices.

Awards

Throughout her academic career, Liu has received numerous accolades, reflecting her commitment to excellence. Notable achievements include the SEDE Outstanding Casual Academic Award from UTS, recognition as an Outstanding Reviewer for IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics, and several scholarships for academic excellence at NCEPU. These awards underscore her exceptional contributions to both research and education.

Publications

Liu has made substantial contributions to scholarly literature, with several publications in reputable journals. Her key works include:

Liu, L., Ba, X., Guo, Y., Lei, G., Sun, X., & Zhu, J. (2022). “Improved iron loss prediction models for interior PMSMs considering coupling effects of multiphysics factors.” IEEE Transactions on Transportation Electrification, DOI: 10.1109/TTE.2022.3189504. (Cited by 25)

Liu, L., Guo, Y., Yin, W., Lei, G., Sun, X., & Zhu, J. (2024). “Efficient design optimization of PMSM drive systems using improved equivalent-circuit-based loss minimization control.” IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics. (Accepted)

Liu, L., Guo, Y., Lei, G., & Zhu, J. (2023). “Designing High-Power-Density Electric Motors for Electric Vehicles with Advanced Magnetic Materials.” World Electric Vehicle Journal, 14(4), article 114. (Cited by 15)

Liu, L., Guo, Y., & Zhu, J. (2021). “Iron loss calculation for high-speed permanent magnet machines considering rotating magnetic field and thermal effects.” IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity, 31(8), 1-5. (Cited by 10)

Conclusion

Lin Liu stands out as a promising researcher in the field of electrical engineering, driven by a passion for innovation and a commitment to advancing technology. Her academic accomplishments, coupled with her practical experience and leadership in student organizations, position her as a key figure in shaping the future of electromagnetic device design and optimization. Liu’s dedication to her research and her ability to mentor and inspire students reflect her potential for significant contributions to the field in the years to come.

Negar Heidari Matin | Sustainable Buildings | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Dr Negar Heidari Matin | Sustainable Buildings | Best Researcher Award

Professor, University of Oklahoma, United States

Negar Heidari Matin is an Assistant Professor at the Gibbs College of Architecture, University of Oklahoma. She specializes in architectural technology, focusing on responsive autonomous intelligent façade systems, human comfort, smart materials, and interior architecture. As the Director of the High-Performance Interior Architecture Lab, she integrates innovative research in sustainable design and intelligent building systems to address modern architectural challenges. Dr. Matin has a diverse academic and professional background that bridges engineering, architecture, and design.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Google Scholar

Orcid

Scopus

STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARDS

Negar Heidari Matin demonstrates a robust academic background and outstanding research achievements in architectural technology, focusing specifically on responsive autonomous intelligent facade systems, human comfort, and smart materials. With a Ph.D. in Technology and a strong publication record in top-tier journals, she has contributed significantly to the development and optimization of facade systems for visual comfort and energy efficiency. Her work spans innovative topics like smart colored windows, daylight optimization, and educational modules, positioning her as an expert in sustainable and smart architecture. She has collaborated with renowned institutions and has received wide recognition for her impactful research, including papers cited numerous times and appearing in reputable international journals.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS

While Negar Heidari Matin has made significant strides in architecture and design technology, she may expand her research scope by incorporating interdisciplinary collaborations with fields like AI and robotics to further enhance responsive architecture and facade systems. Additionally, developing more large-scale, real-world case studies or pilot projects could strengthen the practical application of her research and allow her to contribute to industry advancements more directly.

EDUCATION

🎓 Ph.D. Technology (2015–2020)
Eastern Michigan University, USA
Dissertation: Implementation of a Responsive Façade System for Optimizing Visual Comfort Metrics

🎓 Master of Architecture Engineering (2010–2012)
Tabriz Art University, Iran
Thesis: Designing a Monument/Memorial for Persian Culture

🎓 Bachelor of Architecture Engineering (2005–2010)
Chamran University of Ahvaz, Iran
Senior Design Project: Designing Tehran Airport Terminal

WORK EXPERIENCE

💼 Director (2022–Present)
High-Performance Interior Architecture Lab, University of Oklahoma

💼 Assistant Professor (2020–Present)
Interior Design Division, University of Oklahoma

💼 Research Fellow (2015–2020)
Sustainable Design Research Lab, Eastern Michigan University

AWARDS AND HONORS

🏆 Recognized for outstanding contributions in architectural research and innovation.
🏆 Published multiple high-impact papers in peer-reviewed journals.
🏆 Honored for advancements in responsive intelligent façade systems.
🏆 Recipient of academic grants for interdisciplinary research.

RESEARCH FOCUS

🔬 Architectural technology with a focus on responsive façade systems.
🔬 Integration of smart materials for enhanced building performance.
🔬 User comfort metrics and sustainable design principles.
🔬 Advanced computational techniques for interior design optimization.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

📄 Technologies Used in Responsive Facade Systems: A Comparative Study
📄 Factors Affecting the Design and Development of Responsive Facades
📄 Comparative Analysis of Technologies Used in Responsive Building Facades
📄 A Data-Driven Optimized Daylight Pattern for Responsive Facades Design
📄 A Comparative Study on Smart Windows Focusing on Climate-Based Energy Performance and Users’ Comfort Attributes
📄 The Effect of Smart Colored Windows on Visual Performance of Buildings
📄 Evaluating Visual Comfort Metrics of Responsive Facade Systems as Educational Activities
📄 A Novel Framework for Optimizing Indoor Illuminance and Discovering Association of Involved Variables
📄 Learning Modules for Geometric Pattern Identification and Mathematical Modeling of Facade Systems
📄 Interdisciplinary Educational Modules: Using Smart Colored Windows in Responsive Facade Systems
📄 Smart Colored Window Technology: Improving Users’ Comfort with an Interdisciplinary Approach
📄 Design Considerations for Virtual Reality Intervention for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review
📄 Utilizing Simulation and Animation Software in Design Projects of Multi-Semester Courses
📄 Computer-Aided Design Application in Determining Minimum Discomfort Glare
📄 Using Smart Colored Windows for Improving Users’ Comfort in Buildings
📄 Historical Evolution of Responsive Facades Factors Affecting the Design and Development
📄 Symbolic Features of Four Classic Elements in Sustainable Traditional Iranian Architecture
📄 A Memorial for Islamic Iran: Honor of Eclectic Culture

CONCLUSION

Negar Heidari Matin stands as a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award due to her pioneering research in responsive facades, intelligent building systems, and user comfort. Her innovative contributions to architectural technology, alongside her extensive academic work and growing international recognition, underscore her qualification for this award. With further interdisciplinary collaborations and real-world applications, she has the potential to elevate the field of sustainable architecture even further.

 

 

Burcu Buram Colak Demirel | Building Energy | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Mrs Burcu Buram Colak Demirel | Building Energy | Best Researcher Award

Research Assistant, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Turkey

Burcu Buram Çolak is an academic and architect with a passion for exploring the intersection of architecture and environmental design. She has worked in various roles in academia and practice, contributing significantly to research in architecture and sustainable building systems. With a background in architecture, she is currently serving as a research assistant at Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University and Gazi University in Turkey. Her work primarily focuses on air quality in architectural spaces, energy conservation, and adaptive building design. She has contributed to numerous publications and continues to be actively engaged in research and the development of innovative solutions in architectural design.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

  1. Diverse and Relevant Research Focus: Burcu Buram Çolak’s research is highly interdisciplinary, focusing on crucial issues in architecture such as air quality, building materials, energy conservation, and adaptable design systems. Her work addresses contemporary challenges in sustainable architecture and indoor environmental quality, which are of increasing importance in today’s world.
  2. Publications in Prestigious Journals: Burcu has published several impactful papers in recognized journals, including articles on energy conservation, adaptable building shells, and the intersection of architecture with branding and music. These publications demonstrate both academic depth and the practical application of her research.
  3. Academic and Professional Experience: With experience as a project architect and research assistant at prominent universities, Burcu successfully bridges theory and practice. Her professional background, combined with her active involvement in research, gives her a unique edge as an academic and practitioner.
  4. Innovation and Multidisciplinary Approach: Her work on comparing glass as a structural material with lightweight alternatives, as well as adaptive building shell designs, reflects her forward-thinking approach to architecture. She is engaging with cutting-edge issues in sustainability, energy-efficient design, and adaptive reuse in architecture.
  5. Ongoing Commitment to Research: Burcu is actively pursuing a PhD and has a clear focus on air quality in architectural spaces, indicating a long-term commitment to advancing knowledge in the field. Her research is evolving, which speaks to her dedication to contributing valuable insights for the architecture and design communities.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Research Impact and Collaboration: While Burcu has produced high-quality publications, there is potential to increase the visibility of her work through more international collaborations and participation in high-impact conferences. This could further solidify her reputation in the global academic community.
  2. Increased Integration of Research and Teaching: As she is working both in academia and in research, Burcu could enhance the integration of her research into her teaching, sharing her findings with students more directly. This would not only benefit her students but also position her as a leader in architectural education.
  3. Expansion into More Applied Research: While Burcu has engaged with innovative research, exploring more applied case studies, particularly in collaboration with architectural firms or municipalities, could elevate the practical impact of her work. Engaging in real-world projects could strengthen the applicability and relevance of her research to broader architectural practice.

Education

Burcu Buram Çolak completed her Bachelor’s degree in Architecture at Erciyes University in 2013. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master’s degree from Gazi University, where she investigated glass as a structural material in her thesis. Burcu is currently pursuing a PhD at Gazi University, focusing on air quality in architectural spaces. Her academic journey has been deeply influenced by her research interests in building materials, energy efficiency, and environmental factors in architecture. She continues to expand her expertise through active research and academic collaboration.

Experience

Burcu Buram Çolak began her career as an architect at an architecture company from 2013 to 2017, where she worked on various projects. In 2017, she transitioned to academia, joining Gazi University as a research assistant in the Faculty of Architecture, where she contributed to teaching and research. Since 2023, she has been serving as a research assistant at Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University in the Faculty of Architecture and Design. Her professional experience spans both practice and academia, allowing her to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application in architectural design and research.

Awards and Honors

Burcu Buram Çolak has been recognized for her contributions to architectural research and innovation. She has received accolades for her research on building materials, sustainable design, and energy conservation in residential buildings. Her work on adaptive building shells has been highly regarded in the academic community, and she has been awarded funding for her doctoral research on air quality in architectural spaces. In addition to these honors, Burcu has been acknowledged for her published works in international journals, further cementing her status as an influential figure in architectural research.

Research Focus

Burcu Buram Çolak’s research focuses on the relationship between air quality and architectural spaces, particularly the role of building materials and energy-efficient designs in improving environmental conditions. She has explored glass as a structural system material, comparing it with lightweight structural materials for sustainability. Her current PhD research aims to investigate how air quality impacts the well-being of occupants and how architectural interventions can improve indoor environments. Her work seeks to create innovative architectural solutions that prioritize both sustainability and the health of building occupants, addressing contemporary challenges in urban design and construction.

Publication Top Notes

  • Renovation Strategies for Energy Conservation in Multi-Story Residential Buildings in Turkey 🏢💡
  • Examples of Adaptive Module Variations for Adaptable Building Shell Design 🏛️🔄
  • Importance of Architecture in the Branding Process: An Evaluation on a Famous Brand 🏙️🔍
  • İmgesel Yapılarda Müzik ve Geometri Kesişimi; Iannis Xenakis Örnekleri Üzerinden İnceleme 🎶

Conclusion

Burcu Buram Çolak exhibits the qualities of an outstanding researcher: innovative ideas, a multidisciplinary approach, and a strong commitment to advancing knowledge in sustainable architecture and building design. Her research is highly relevant to contemporary issues in architecture, such as environmental quality and energy conservation. Although there are opportunities to expand her international collaborations and make her research more applied, her ongoing PhD and established academic career indicate that she is well on her way to becoming a leading figure in her field. Therefore, Burcu is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award, as her work continues to make significant contributions to both academic and practical aspects of architecture.