Researcher/PhD Student, Polymer Competence Center Leobben, Austria
Dhaval Patel is a researcher at the Polymer Competence Center Leoben GmbH and a doctoral candidate at Montanuniversität Leoben. His expertise lies in computational materials science, focusing on fracture mechanics and composite materials. He has contributed significantly to advancing simulation tools, including the Direct-FE2 method and ABAQUS modeling for composite structures. Patel has also worked extensively on topology optimization for orthotic designs and printed circuit board assemblies. His research has been published in high-impact journals and conferences, demonstrating his commitment to innovation in material science and engineering.
PROFESSIONAL PROFILE
Orcid
Scopus
STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD
✅ Strong Research Background – Dhaval Patel has a well-established academic and research career, with affiliations at the Polymer Competence Center Leoben GmbH and Montanuniversität Leoben. His research contributions focus on computational materials science, composite materials, and finite element modeling.
✅ Diverse Research Contributions – His work spans multiple fields, including topology optimization, fracture mechanics, orthotic design, and printed circuit board assemblies. The variety of research topics highlights his interdisciplinary expertise.
✅ High-impact Publications – He has authored multiple papers in high-ranking journals and conferences, such as Materials & Design, Springer Proceedings, and EuroSimE 2024, demonstrating international recognition.
✅ Technical Skills & Innovation – His experience with ABAQUS, Direct-FE2 methods, and cohesive zone modeling indicates advanced computational modeling expertise. His development of tools for composite material analysis shows strong problem-solving abilities.
✅ Industry & Academic Collaboration – His involvement in EU-funded projects and collaborations with institutions like TUBAF (Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg) strengthens his research impact and real-world application.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
📌 More Independent Research Leadership – While Dhaval Patel has contributed significantly to multiple projects, taking on a principal investigator (PI) role in high-profile research grants would further establish his leadership in the field.
📌 Expanded Citation Impact – Increasing the citation count and journal impact factor of his publications would further enhance his research credibility. Engaging in more collaborative, high-impact studies could support this.
📌 Broader Recognition Through Awards – While his research is strong, gaining more recognition through fellowships, keynote invitations, and awards would help position him as a leading researcher.
EDUCATION
🎓 Doctoral Candidate, Montanuniversität Leoben
🎓 M.Sc. in Computational Materials Science, Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg, GPA – 2.3
🎓 B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering, Indus University, India, GPA – 1.8
EXPERIENCE
🔬 Researcher, Polymer Competence Center Leoben GmbH
🧪 Master Thesis Student, Technische Universität Freiberg (2020-2021)
🛠 Scientific Assistant (HIWI), TUBAF – Fracture Mechanics Department (2019-2021)
🔧 Intern, SV99 Auto Services Pvt. Ltd., India (2017)
AWARDS AND HONORS
🏆 Recognized for research excellence in computational materials science
🏆 Published multiple papers in top-tier journals and conferences
🏆 Developed an ABAQUS tool for composite material analysis
🏆 Contributed to advancements in topology optimization and fracture mechanics
RESEARCH FOCUS
🔍 Computational Materials Science – Direct-FE2 modeling, fracture mechanics, and topology optimization
📏 Structural Analysis – Composite materials, finite element analysis, and microstructural modeling
🦾 Orthotic & Biomedical Engineering – Optimization of hand orthoses and pressure distribution studies
🔬 Microelectronics & PCBs – Criticality assessment of microvias in printed circuit board assemblies
PUBLICATION TOP NOTES
📄 Optimizing Children’s Hand Orthosis Design: A Study on Contact Pressure Distribution Using FSR Sensors
📄 A Comprehensive Methodology for Criticality Assessment of Microvias in Printed Circuit Board Assemblies
📄 Optimizing Children’s Hand Orthosis Design: A Study on Contact Pressure Distribution Using FSR Sensors (SSRN)
📄 Single and Multi-material Topology Optimization of Continuum Structures: ABAQUS Plugin
📄 Integration of Topology Optimization and Sizing Optimization Techniques for Advanced Orthotic Design
CONCLUSION
🔹 Dhaval Patel’s research contributions in computational materials science, fracture mechanics, and topology optimization make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His innovative work, interdisciplinary focus, and technical expertise align well with award criteria.
🔹 Strengthening his leadership role in research projects and increasing his citation impact would further enhance his chances of securing the award in future applications. 🚀