Dr Sadjad Naderi | Rock Mechanics | Best Researcher Award

Senior Research Associate at Imperial College London, United Kingdom

Dr. Sadjad Naderi is a Senior Research Scientist/Engineer at Imperial College London, specializing in applied solid mechanics and microstructural analysis. With over 9 years of postdoctoral experience, he holds a PhD in failure analysis of reinforced polymer composites and is a Chartered Engineer (CEng) with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). Dr. Naderi has made significant contributions to AI-enhanced simulations, digital twin systems, and advanced stress analysis across aerospace, civil engineering, and geothermal drilling. His work integrates AI, FEM, DEM, and multiphysics modeling to solve complex engineering challenges. He is also an experienced mentor, educator, and advocate for EDI in academia.

Professional Profile

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Education 🎓

Dr. Naderi earned his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Malaya (2011-2015), focusing on failure analysis of polymer composites. He holds an MSc in Applied Mechanics from K.N. Toosi University of Technology, Iran (2006-2009), and a BEng in Solid Mechanics from Islamic Azad University, Iran (2001-2006). His academic journey has equipped him with expertise in computational mechanics, material characterization, and advanced simulation techniques, laying the foundation for his impactful research career.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Naderi has held key research roles at Imperial College London, University College London, and the University of Sheffield. At Imperial, he leads projects on digital twinning, AI-enhanced simulations, and geothermal drilling optimization. His work includes developing neural network-integrated DEM models, multiphysics frameworks for rock breakage, and surrogate models for real-time drilling optimization. Previously, he pioneered concrete fracture modeling at UCL and analyzed multi-layered ceramic capacitors at Sheffield. His industry collaborations include Fervo Energy, where he developed digital twin systems for geothermal drilling.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Naderi has received numerous accolades, including the Best Paper Award at the American Rock Mechanics Association (2024) and an £80k Impact Acceleration Account grant from Imperial College (2023). He was awarded a tuition waiver and High Impact Research grant by the University of Malaya (2012-2015). His work on AI-driven simulations and digital twins has been recognized internationally, cementing his reputation as a leader in computational solid mechanics.

Research Focus 🔍

Dr. Naderi’s research focuses on AI-enhanced simulations, digital twin systems, and multiphysics modeling for material and structural analysis. He specializes in fracture mechanics, fatigue, and impact damage, with applications in aerospace, civil engineering, and geothermal drilling. His work integrates machine learning with traditional methods like FEM and DEM to optimize material design, predict structural integrity, and develop real-time monitoring systems. He is also passionate about mentoring the next generation of researchers in computational mechanics.

Publication Top Notes 📚

1. Optimised Hammer Drilling Bit Design using Artificial Neural Networks trained by FDEM
2. A Discrete Element Solution Method Embedded within a Neural Network
3. Three-Dimensional Numerical Study of DTH Bit-Rock Interaction with HPWJ Downhole Slotting
4. 3D meso-scale modelling of tensile and compressive fracture behaviour of steel fibre reinforced concrete
5. Meso-scale modelling of compressive fracture in concrete with irregularly shaped aggregates
6. Meso-scale modelling of static and dynamic tensile fracture of concrete accounting for real-shape aggregates
7. Two-scale modelling of fracture of magnesium phosphate cement under bending using X-ray computed tomography characterisation
8. A novel framework for modelling the 3D mesostructure of steel fibre reinforced concrete
9. An integrated framework for modelling virtual 3D irregulate particulate mesostructure
10. Three-dimensional virtual microstructure generation of porous polycrystalline ceramics
11. Morphology characterisation of inclusions to predict the breakdown strength in electro-ceramic materials: Microstructure modelling
12. Thermomechanical advantages of functionally graded dental posts: A finite element analysis
13. Modeling of porosity in hydroxyapatite for finite element simulation of nanoindentation test
14. Alternative methods to determine the elastoplastic properties of sintered hydroxyapatite from nanoindentation testing
15. Low-velocity impact damage of woven fabric composites: Finite element simulation and experimental verification
16. An empirical modified fatigue damage model for impacted GFRP laminates
17. Effect of curvature and thickness of aluminum shells on the energy absorption in low velocity impact
18. ORCHYD: Combination of High-Pressure Water Jet and Percussion to Improve Drilling Performance in Hard Rocks

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Sadjad Naderi is a distinguished researcher and engineer whose work bridges AI, computational mechanics, and real-world engineering challenges. His innovative approaches to digital twinning, AI-enhanced simulations, and multiphysics modeling have advanced fields ranging from aerospace to geothermal drilling. With a strong commitment to mentoring and education, Dr. Naderi continues to inspire the next generation of engineers while pushing the boundaries of computational solid mechanics. His contributions have earned him international recognition, making him a leader in his field.