Zahid Ur Rehman | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Dr. Zahid Ur Rehman | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zahid Ur Rehman is a distinguished researcher and academic in the field of Mining Engineering, specializing in rock mechanics, tunnel design, and numerical modeling for geotechnical analysis. His scholarly contributions emphasize the study of rock mass behavior under varied loading conditions, focusing on the stability and safety of underground structures in complex geological environments. Through extensive research on the Lowari Tunnel and Kohat Tunnel projects in Pakistan, Zahid Ur Rehman has developed advanced modeling techniques using FEM and DEM approaches to predict deformation, stress distribution, and support system performance. His work integrates theoretical and empirical methods to optimize tunnel support systems, enhance slope stability, and mitigate risks associated with rock bursts and collapses. Beyond tunnel engineering, his studies extend to dimension stone mining, ore reserve estimation, explosive engineering, and sustainable mineral extraction. His collaborative publications explore artificial intelligence applications for rock mass characterization, risk assessment in mining operations, and the environmental management of mineral industries. Zahid Ur Rehman has supervised multiple undergraduate projects investigating geotechnical variability, squeezing potential, and predictive modeling in tunnel environments, demonstrating a commitment to fostering research innovation. His proficiency with tools such as RocLab, RS2, and Matlab strengthens his expertise in simulation and modeling for ground support design. Additionally, his involvement with the Society of Mining Engineers and Pakistan Engineering Council highlights active engagement in professional development and academic leadership. His academic output, including journal articles and a co-authored book chapter on slope engineering, contributes significantly to advancing mining and geotechnical sciences. Zahid Ur Rehman has 92 citations across 11 research documents with an h-index of 6, reflecting substantial influence and research impact in the mining engineering discipline.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID
Featured Publications

Jan, M. S., Hussain, S., Zahra, R. E., Emad, M. Z., Khan, N. M., Rehman, Z. U., Cao, K., Alarifi, S. S., Raza, S., Sherin, S., et al. (2023). Appraisal of different artificial intelligence techniques for the prediction of marble strength. Sustainability.

Hussain, S., Khan, N. M., Emad, M. Z., Naji, A. M., Cao, K., Gao, Q., Rehman, Z. U., Raza, S., Cui, R., Salman, M., et al. (2022). An appropriate model for the prediction of rock mass deformation modulus among various artificial intelligence models. Sustainability.

Gul, A., Shahzada, K., Alam, B., Badrashi, Y. I., Khan, S. W., Khan, F. A., Ali, A., & Rehman, Z. U. (2020). Experimental study on the structural behavior of cast in-situ hollow core concrete slabs. Civil Engineering Journal (Iran).

Hussian, S., Mohammad, N., Rehman, Z. U., Khan, N. M., Shahzada, K., Ali, S., Tahir, M., Raza, S., & Sherin, S. (2020). Review of the geological strength index (GSI) as an empirical classification and rock mass property estimation tool: Origination, modifications, applications, and limitations. Advances in Civil Engineering.

Tahir, M., Rehman, Z. U., Husain, S., Muhammad, N., Nazir, M., Sadiq, M., & Hussain, I. (2020). Up-gradation of black shale of Chimiari region of Pakistan by flotation scheme. Journal of Himalayan Earth Sciences.

Yiyi Yang | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Scholar Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Ms. Yiyi Yang | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Scholar Award

Northwestern University | China

Ms. Yiyi Yang is a dedicated researcher in geological engineering with a strong academic foundation and growing expertise in soil mechanics and geotechnical applications. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in Geological Engineering at Northwest University, Xi’an, following a successful completion of a bachelor’s degree in the same field at Xi’an University of Science and Technology, the academic journey reflects both excellence and commitment. Consistently recognized with multiple scholarships and awards, including the First-Class Scholarship at Northwest University, the performance ranking at the top of the class underscores outstanding ability and determination. Research contributions demonstrate an interest in soil-water interactions, particularly in the deformation of compacted loess under wetting and infiltration processes. Work on compaction conditions, microstructural evolution, and hydraulic conductivity showcases both analytical skills and experimental rigor. As part of a collaborative project under the supervision of Ping Li, significant insights were gained into loess behavior, which are highly relevant to civil engineering and geotechnical practices. The publication “From agricultural waste to geotechnical application: Multiscale mechanisms of apple tree biochar for loess reinforcement” in Powder Technology highlights the capacity to connect environmental sustainability with engineering innovation by exploring biochar as a reinforcement material. Beyond academics, contributions as a volunteer and recognition with a two-star volunteer award reflect a well-rounded individual balancing research, academic achievement, and community engagement. Technical skills span experimental methods, data collection, and advanced use of specialized software including AutoCAD, CorelDraw, Origin, and Python, reinforcing readiness for complex research and engineering tasks. Proficiency in English, demonstrated by CET-6, further supports the ability to engage with international research. Altogether, the profile demonstrates exceptional potential for advancing knowledge in geological engineering, particularly in sustainable geotechnical solutions that bridge environmental considerations with practical applications in soil stabilization and infrastructure development.

Profile: Scopus
Featured Publication:

From agricultural waste to geotechnical application: Investigation of apple tree biochar for loess reinforcement. (2025). Powder Technology.

Bassam Al-Washali – Geotechnical Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Bassam Al-Washali - Geotechnical Engineering - Best Researcher Award

Shandong University - China

SUMMARY

Bassam Mohammed Al-Washali is a civil engineer and current Ph.D. candidate in Geotechnical Engineering at Shandong University. His research focuses on underground infrastructure, tunneling stability, and computational geotechnics. With practical experience in site supervision and structural design across multiple engineering consultancies in the Middle East, he brings both academic and field expertise to his work. His interdisciplinary skills allow him to contribute to complex, large-scale infrastructure projects. Bassam is also an active researcher in international collaborations, with published work on tunnel face stability and bridge dynamics. His academic and professional journey reflects dedication to solving modern engineering challenges.

EDUCATION

Bassam is pursuing his doctoral studies in Geotechnical Engineering at Shandong University under Professors Yao Zhanyong and Yao Kai. He holds a Master’s degree in Bridge and Tunnel Engineering from Jilin University, where his thesis addressed the structural response of cable-stayed bridges during cable failure. He also completed a bachelor’s in Civil Engineering from Thamar University, Yemen. His academic progression reflects strong foundations in structural mechanics and computational modeling. His educational trajectory supports a robust skillset in analyzing and designing infrastructure systems, with a focus on dynamic stability and safety under unexpected events such as structural failures or natural hazards.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Bassam has over five years of practical engineering experience in design, supervision, and construction project management. He has served as a civil engineer in firms including MAK Engineering Consultancy and MAJED AL-DALBAHI in Saudi Arabia. His responsibilities ranged from structural layout planning to on-site supervision of infrastructure projects. Earlier roles in Yemen included work as a site engineer and civil design engineer. This practical background in both international and local engineering environments enhances his technical judgment and understanding of applied geotechnical principles. Bassam’s professional history integrates well with his current academic focus on advanced engineering systems.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Bassam’s research spans several domains within civil and geotechnical engineering. His core interests include tunnel face stability, infrastructural risk assessment, computational geotechnics, and the structural dynamics of cable-stayed bridges. He investigates how to improve safety and efficiency in tunnel excavation using numerical simulations and shape optimization. His research also explores resilience in infrastructure systems under abnormal load conditions. Bassam actively contributes to national research programs, including undersea tunneling and offshore wind turbine foundation studies. His work aligns with global priorities in smart infrastructure, reliability-based design, and the integration of intelligent systems into traditional civil engineering frameworks.

AWARD AND HONOR

While specific awards are not detailed in the CV, Bassam’s academic and research involvement in nationally funded Chinese projects highlights his recognition as a valuable contributor. Being selected to participate in multi-million yuan research initiatives reflects trust in his technical ability and problem-solving skills. He has co-authored research papers in prestigious journals and holds co-inventorship on a Chinese utility patent, showcasing international academic credibility. His continued involvement in high-profile infrastructure research initiatives illustrates his growing influence and respect within the academic and engineering communities. These roles underscore his contributions to innovation in geotechnical and tunneling engineering.

RESEARCH SKILL

Bassam is proficient in a wide array of software used in civil and geotechnical modeling. He uses Abaqus and ANSYS APDL for finite element analysis, particularly for tunnel excavation and structural deformation simulations. He is trained in Primavera for project scheduling and uses design tools like ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD Pro, and AutoCAD for modeling and structural analysis. Additional competencies include Civil 3D, Robot Structural Analysis, and Microsoft Office tools. His research blends advanced computation with practical design experience, allowing him to perform dynamic structural evaluations and risk assessments that support safer, more efficient infrastructure systems.

PUBLICATIONS

Title: Structural Dynamic Analysis of Cable-Stayed Bridge Due to Cable Failure Under Unexpected Events

               Authors: B.M. Al-washali, Z. Yifeng, G. Xin, C. Xiaoxu, A.M. Al-washali

               Journal: International Journal of Scientific & Technology Research (IJSTR

Title: Numerical investigation on the effect of cutterhead shapes on tunnel face stability

                Authors: B.M. Al-Washali, K. Yao, U. Satchithananthan, Z. Yao, A.M. Tawfek, Y. Pan, ...

                Journal: Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology

CONCLUSION

Bassam Mohammed Al-Washali exemplifies the modern civil engineer: analytically skilled, globally experienced, and research-driven. With a strong academic foundation and hands-on industry exposure, he brings practical relevance to his research in tunneling, infrastructure resilience, and geotechnical safety. His participation in cutting-edge research projects and interdisciplinary collaborations positions him as a promising figure in infrastructure innovation. Bassam is poised to make lasting contributions to the fields of underground construction, bridge safety, and intelligent geosystems. His work not only solves technical problems but also aligns with global goals for safer, smarter, and more sustainable civil infrastructure.