Mohammad Al-Zu’bi | Sustainable Construction Materials | Best Researcher Award

Dr Mohammad Al-Zu’bi | Sustainable Construction Materials | Best Researcher Award

Researcher, Brunel University of London, United Kingdom

Mohammad Al-Zu’bi is a dedicated researcher in Civil Engineering, specializing in nanotechnology for concrete retrofitting. He earned his PhD in Civil Engineering (Structures and Materials) from Brunel University London in 2024, focusing on nanotechnology-enhanced NSM-FRP structural retrofitting. His MSc and BSc degrees in Structural and Civil Engineering, respectively, were completed at Jordan University of Science and Technology with distinction. Al-Zu’bi has a strong background in teaching, having worked as a Lecturer at multiple universities and as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Brunel University. His research has been published in top-tier journals, and his work on advanced bonding agents and nanomaterials has gained significant recognition.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

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STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD

Dr. Mohammad Al-Zu’bi has demonstrated significant expertise and innovation in the field of Civil Engineering, particularly in Structural Retrofitting using Nanotechnology and Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites. His research contributions are evidenced by his extensive publication record, including peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals. Notably, his work on nanomaterial-enhanced adhesives for FRP retrofitting has opened new pathways for sustainable and effective structural repair. Dr. Al-Zu’bi’s ability to combine practical applications with advanced material science is exemplified in studies like the investigation of nanomaterial-incorporated epoxies, which have garnered substantial citations and recognition.
Additionally, his multidisciplinary approach, incorporating nanotechnology, construction materials, and sustainability, aligns with modern civil engineering challenges. His academic background and professional roles further affirm his capability in teaching and disseminating knowledge.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS

While Dr. Al-Zu’bi’s research output and expertise are notable, future work could focus on expanding the practical implementation of his findings in large-scale industrial applications. Collaborations with industry stakeholders and governmental agencies may amplify the real-world impact of his research. Furthermore, pursuing patents or product development initiatives based on his innovations could elevate his contributions beyond academia. Engaging in broader international conferences and cross-disciplinary projects would also enhance the global visibility of his work.

EDUCATION

πŸŽ“ PhD in Civil Engineering (Structures and Materials), Brunel University London (2020–2024)
Thesis: Nanotechnology-Enhanced NSM-FRP Structural Retrofitting

πŸŽ“ MSc in Structural Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology (2014–2017)
Thesis: Shear Strengthening of RC Beams with NSM-CFRP Laminates

πŸŽ“ BSc in Civil Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology (2009–2014)
Final Year Project: Design and Analysis of Five-Storey Building

EXPERIENCE

πŸ’Ό High Skills Technician, HRUC, Uxbridge College, UK (2022–2024)

  • Organized teaching materials and maintained equipment to support learning.
  • Conducted risk assessments and improved health and safety compliance.

πŸ’Ό Graduate Teaching Assistant, Brunel University London, UK (2022–2024)

  • Managed tutorials and exam marking for over 400 students.
  • Delivered presentations on retrofitting systems.

πŸ’Ό Lecturer, Ajloun National University, Jordan (2018–2019)

  • Taught Structural Analysis, Strength of Materials, and Building Materials.

πŸ’Ό Lecturer, Yarmouk University, Jordan (2017–2018)

  • Conducted courses in Design of Steel Structures and Geotechnical Engineering.

AWARDS AND HONORS

πŸ† Best Paper Award in Nanotechnology Applications, Structural Concrete Journal, 2024
πŸ† Research Excellence Award, Brunel University London, 2023
πŸ† Distinguished Lecturer Award, Ajloun National University, 2019
πŸ† Academic Distinction in MSc and BSc Degrees, Jordan University of Science and Technology

RESEARCH FOCUS

πŸ”¬ Concrete Retrofitting: Exploring innovative retrofitting techniques using nanotechnology.
πŸ”¬ FRP Composites: Advancing the use of fiber-reinforced polymer materials for structural repair.
πŸ”¬ Nanomaterials: Developing modified epoxy adhesives with enhanced bonding properties.
πŸ”¬ Structural Epoxy Adhesives: Enhancing adhesion properties for improved structural integrity.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

πŸ“š Advances in bonding agents for retrofitting concrete structures with fibre reinforced polymer materials: A review
πŸ“š The effect of length and inclination of carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminates on shear capacity of near‐surface mounted retrofitted reinforced concrete beams
πŸ“š Near-surface mounted-FRP flexural retrofitting of concrete members using nanomaterial-modified epoxy adhesives
πŸ“š Effect of incorporating carbon-and silicon-based nanomaterials on the physico-chemical properties of a structural epoxy adhesive
πŸ“š Parametric investigation of flexural performance of concrete prisms retrofitted with near-surface mounted FRP bars
πŸ“š A Review of Repairing Heat-Damaged RC Beams Using Externally Bonded-and Near-Surface Mounted-CFRP Composites
πŸ“š A review on retrofitting concrete members with near-surface mounted-fiber reinforced polymer composites
πŸ“š Carbon-Based and Silicon-Based Nanomaterials for Enhanced Structural Adhesives
πŸ“š Mechanical performance and life cycle assessment of BFRP-reinforced AAC slabs strengthened with basalt macro-fibers
πŸ“š Effect of Incorporating Carbon- and Silicon-Based Nanomaterials on the Physico-Chemical and the Adhesion Properties of Structural Epoxy Adhesive

CONCLUSION

Dr. Mohammad Al-Zu’bi’s contributions to the fields of nanotechnology for concrete retrofitting and FRP composite systems make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His robust research foundation, coupled with his teaching and professional experience, reflects his dedication to advancing knowledge and practical applications in Civil Engineering. Recognizing his work would not only honor his individual achievements but also promote the importance of sustainable and innovative solutions in construction and structural engineering.

Abubakari Malik | Sustainable Construction Practices | Best Researcher Award

Mr Abubakari Malik | Sustainable Construction Practices | Best Researcher Award

Student/Member, Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, Malawi

Abubakari Malik is a passionate researcher and academic currently pursuing an MSc in Infrastructure Development and Management at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS). He has a BSc in Quantity Surveying and Construction Economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. Abubakari has experience in research, project monitoring and evaluation, construction economics, and community leadership. He has contributed to several scholarly works, particularly focusing on sustainable construction practices, digital technologies like BIM, and risk management in construction projects. Abubakari’s professional journey includes teaching roles at MUBAS, project monitoring with the Ghana Education Trust Fund, and internships with reputable firms in the construction industry. His work reflects a deep commitment to addressing the challenges in infrastructure development, particularly in developing countries.

Profile

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Strengths for the Award

Abubakari Malik demonstrates a strong academic and professional background, making him a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His ongoing MSc in Infrastructure Development and Management at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) shows his commitment to academic excellence, with a focus on sustainable construction practices. His research interests in sustainable construction, digital technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Digital Twin, and construction risk management align well with the needs of the construction industry in developing countries. Abubakari has contributed to high-impact publications, including journal articles and book chapters on sustainable procurement practices and infrastructure development. His previous professional experience, including roles in project monitoring, quantity surveying, and teaching, adds a practical dimension to his research, showcasing a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on expertise. His multidisciplinary approach and leadership potential make him a standout researcher in the field.

Areas for Improvement

While Abubakari has shown promise in his academic and professional journey, there are areas where he could further strengthen his profile. Expanding his research scope to include broader case studies from various countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, could enhance the global relevance of his work. Additionally, greater involvement in collaborative international research projects would further elevate his visibility in the global research community. While his current publications are commendable, increased frequency in publishing in high-impact journals could help to solidify his standing as a leading researcher in infrastructure development. Developing stronger networks with industry experts and policymakers could also amplify the practical impact of his research findings.

Education

Abubakari Malik is currently pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) in Infrastructure Development and Management at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), with an expected graduation in March 2025. His research focuses on assessing the sustainability of construction practices in building infrastructure projects in Malawi. Prior to this, Abubakari completed a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Quantity Surveying and Construction Economics at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana, in 2021. During his undergraduate studies, he specialized in construction economics and the measurement of onsite labor productivity. His academic background equips him with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for sustainable development in the construction sector, emphasizing the integration of modern technology, efficient management practices, and sustainability in infrastructure projects.

Experience

Abubakari Malik has diverse professional experience in academia, research, and the construction industry. At the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), he serves as a Staff Associate in the Department of Civil Engineering, where he prepares course materials, delivers lectures, and administers exams. Before joining MUBAS, he worked as a Project Monitoring Officer with the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), where he was responsible for monitoring educational infrastructure projects and compiling reports for management decisions. Abubakari also interned as an Assistant Quantity Surveyor with A&QS Consortium and AESL in Ghana, where he gained hands-on experience in measuring construction works, preparing bill of quantities, and writing site reports. His early career also includes teaching at Our Home International School in WA, where he taught mathematics, science, and English.

Awards and Honors

Abubakari Malik has been recognized for his academic excellence throughout his educational journey. He graduated with Second Class Upper Honors in Quantity Surveying and Construction Economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). His dedication to research and sustainable infrastructure development has earned him several opportunities to contribute to international publications, including journal articles and book chapters. Abubakari has been commended for his contributions to the academic community at MUBAS, where he is actively involved in both teaching and research. Additionally, his involvement in high-impact projects, including the monitoring of educational infrastructure projects for GETFund, has enhanced his reputation in the field of construction economics and project management.

Research Focus

Abubakari Malik’s research interests lie at the intersection of sustainable construction practices, digital technologies, and infrastructure management. He is particularly focused on the sustainability of construction practices in Malawi, where he is conducting research as part of his MSc thesis. Abubakari is also exploring the application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Digital Twin technologies in improving construction project outcomes, especially in terms of efficiency, cost management, and environmental sustainability. His research contributes to understanding the drivers of sustainable procurement and risk management in infrastructure projects, especially in developing countries. Through his work, Abubakari aims to improve the resilience and sustainability of infrastructure projects in sub-Saharan Africa.

Publications

  1. “Sustainable Construction Practices in Building Infrastructure Projects: The Extent of Implementation and Drivers in Malawi” πŸŒπŸ—οΈ
  2. “Challenges of Sustainable Procurement Practices in Northern Ghana” πŸ‡¬πŸ‡­πŸ“Š
  3. “Development and Infrastructure in Developing Countries: A 10-Year Reflection” πŸ“šπŸŒ

Conclusion

Abubakari Malik has demonstrated impressive academic achievements, practical experience, and a research focus that addresses significant challenges in infrastructure development, particularly in developing countries. His research on sustainable construction practices and the use of digital technologies positions him as a future leader in the field. With a solid foundation in both theoretical research and industry practice, Abubakari is well on his way to making meaningful contributions to the field of construction and infrastructure management. While there is room for growth in terms of publication frequency and international collaboration, his current work shows great promise, and he is deserving of consideration for the Best Researcher Award.