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

Orcid

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 Malikโ€™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” ๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ—๏ธ
  2. “Challenges of Sustainable Procurement Practices in Northern Ghana” ๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ญ๐Ÿ“Š
  3. “Development and Infrastructure in Developing Countries: A 10-Year Reflection” ๐Ÿ“š๐ŸŒ

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.

 

Rania Ihsan Ali – Sustainable Pavement Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Rania Ihsan Ali - Sustainable Pavement Engineering - Best Researcher Award

University of Al-Qadisiyah - Iraq

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

SELF-MOTIVATED CIVIL ENGINEER

Rania Ihsan Ali is a highly self-motivated and innovative Civil Engineer, known for her focus and passion in engineering design. Her extensive experience spans from initial conceptual stages and feasibility studies to detailed final designs. She thrives on learning and developing both new and existing skills, employing established analytical methods and engineering principles to solve complex problems.

EDUCATION IN ROAD AND BRIDGE ENGINEERING

Rania holds a B.Sc. in Road and Bridge Engineering from the College of Engineering, Qadisiyah University (2016-2020). Her academic background provided a strong foundation in civil engineering, specializing in road and bridge design.

FACULTY MEMBER AT UNIVERSITY OF QADISIYAH

Since 2021, Rania has been a dedicated faculty member at the University of Qadisiyah, College of Engineering. She teaches AutoCad in the Department of Civil Engineering, sharing her expertise and fostering the next generation of engineers.

RESEARCH IN ASPHALT BINDER MODIFICATION

Rania has conducted qualitative evaluations of asphalt binder modified with SBS polymer. Her research contributes to enhancing the durability and performance of asphalt pavements, showcasing her commitment to improving construction materials.

SCIENTOMETRIC AND BIBLIOMETRIC STUDIES

She has performed scientometric and bibliometric reviews of the literature on the design and construction of semi-flexible pavement. This work highlights her analytical skills and dedication to advancing the field of civil engineering through comprehensive literature analysis.

SUSTAINABLE PAVEMENT DEVELOPMENT

Rania's research on the efficient use of ceramic waste powder in cementitious grout for sustainable semi-flexible pavement surfaces demonstrates her innovative approach to sustainable construction practices. Her work aims to develop eco-friendly and durable pavement solutions.

PROGRESSIVE CAREER ASPIRATIONS

Rania is keen to secure a challenging role in an engineering firm that offers early responsibilities and a progressive career path. Her drive for professional growth and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to any engineering team.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Effect of glass waste powder and date palm seed ash based sustainable cementitious grouts on the performance of semi-flexible pavement.
Authors: R. Al-Nawasir, B. Al-Humeidawi, M.I. Khan, S.H. Khahro, Z.A. Memon
Year: 2024
Journal: Case Studies in Construction Materials, 21, e03453

Influence of Sustainable Grout Material on the Moisture Damage of Semi-flexible Pavement.
Authors: R. Al-Nawasir, B. Al-Humeidawi, A. Shubbar
Year: 2024
Journal: Periodica Polytechnica Civil Engineering, 68(3), pp. 961โ€“973

Qualitative Evaluation for Asphalt Binder Modified with SBS Polymer.
Authors: R.I. Al-Nawasir, B.H. Al-Humeidawi
Year: 2023
Journal: Tikrit Journal of Engineering Sciences, 30(4), pp. 88โ€“101

A scientometric study and a bibliometric review of the literature on the design and construction of semi-flexible pavement.
Authors: R.I. Al-Nawasir, B.H. Al-Humeidawi
Year: 2023
Journal: Al-Qadisiyah Journal for Engineering Sciences, 16(2), pp. 82โ€“91

Efficient use of ceramic waste powder in Cementitious Grout for the Development of Sustainable Semi-Flexible Pavement Surfaces.
Authors: R.I. Al-Nawasir, B.H. Al-Humeidawi
Year: 2023
Journal: IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 1232(1), 012039

Dong Zikai – TBM Intelligent construction – Best Researcher Award

Dong Zikai - TBM Intelligent construction - Best Researcher Award

Beijing Jiaotong University - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dong Zikai embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China, in 2015. He continued his studies with a Master's degree in Architecture and Civil Engineering from Beijing Jiaotong University in 2019. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at Beijing Jiaotong University, where his research focuses on intelligent assistance technology for Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) tunnelling.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

As a doctoral student in the Department of Geotechnical Engineering at Beijing Jiaotong University, Dong Zikai has made significant contributions to his field. Under the guidance of Professor Li Xu, he has been involved in several research projects and has demonstrated exceptional academic performance. Dong has also participated in competitions such as the TBM competition and the "Huawei Cup" Chinese Graduate Students Artificial Intelligence Innovation Competition, where he achieved notable success.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dong Zikai's research is centered on TBM intelligent construction, with a specific focus on developing intelligent assistance technology. His work has led to the publication of several academic papers in reputable journals, including Automation in Construction and Georisk. His research contributions extend to the development of convolutional neural network-based models for recognizing TBM rock chip gradation, denoising methods in TBM rock fragmenting data, and classification prediction of surrounding rock based on TBM muck images.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dong Zikai's research has made a significant impact on the field of geotechnical engineering, particularly in the realm of TBM intelligent construction. His innovative approaches and methodologies have advanced our understanding of TBM tunnelling processes and have practical implications for improving construction efficiency and safety. Dong's publications have garnered attention within the academic community, further solidifying his influence and recognition in the field.

ACADEMIC CITES

Dong Zikai's research findings have been published in prestigious academic journals and have been cited by fellow scholars and researchers. His work on TBM intelligent construction has contributed to the body of knowledge in geotechnical engineering and has been referenced in related studies and publications. Dong's citations reflect the relevance and impact of his research on the broader academic community.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As Dong Zikai continues his doctoral studies and research endeavors, he is poised to make further contributions to the field of geotechnical engineering, particularly in the area of TBM intelligent construction. His innovative research methodologies and technological advancements have the potential to revolutionize TBM tunnelling practices, leading to safer, more efficient, and sustainable infrastructure development. Dong's commitment to academic excellence and his dedication to advancing the field ensure a promising legacy and future contributions in geotechnical engineering.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Experimental Study on Instant Grouting with Formwork for Tunnels 2022 (2)

Classification Prediction of Surrounding Rock Based on TBM Muck Images 2023

Experimental Investigation on Mechanical Characteristics of Waterproof System for Near-Sea Tunnel: A Case Study of the Gongbei Tunnel 2020 (11)

Xu Li – TBM Intelligent construction – Best Researcher Award

Xu Li - TBM Intelligent construction - Best Researcher Award

Beijing Jiaotong University - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus
ORCID

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Xu Li embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Hydraulic and Hydropower Engineering from Tsinghua University, Beijing, China, in 2001. He continued his studies with a Master's degree in Hydraulic Structure Engineering from Tsinghua University in 2004. Dr. Li further pursued a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at The University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, graduating in 2009. His academic pursuits laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in the field of geotechnical engineering, with a focus on special soil mechanics and TBM automatic control algorithms.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Xu Li has accumulated a wealth of professional experience throughout his career. He served as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at The University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, from January to June 2009, where he conducted research on the failure mechanisms of rainfall-induced landslides. Subsequently, he worked as an Associate Professor at the Department of Geotechnical Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, China, from September 2009 to November 2016, and later as a Professor from December 2016 to the present. His responsibilities included teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses in soil mechanics, consulting on geotechnical engineering projects, and supervising student research.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Xu Li's research primarily focuses on TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) intelligent construction and special soil mechanics. He has made significant contributions to the field through his publications and projects. His research endeavors have led to advancements in the prediction of TBM performance, real-time perception methods for rock conditions in TBM construction, and cross-project utilization of TBM construction data. Dr. Li's work has not only enhanced our understanding of geotechnical engineering but also contributed to the development of innovative technologies for infrastructure projects.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Xu Li's research has had a notable impact on the field of geotechnical engineering. His publications have been widely cited in academic literature, indicating the relevance and significance of his work. Moreover, Dr. Li's involvement in professional societies and committees, such as the International Society of Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE), underscores his influence and recognition within the global geotechnical community. His contributions to TBM intelligent construction and special soil mechanics continue to shape the future of geotechnical engineering practice.

ACADEMIC CITES

Dr. Xu Li's research findings have been published in reputable journals and conference proceedings, garnering citations from scholars and researchers worldwide. His work on TBM construction methods, rock condition characterization, and soil mechanics has contributed to the advancement of knowledge in geotechnical engineering. The impact of his research is evident in the numerous citations his publications have received, highlighting the significance of his contributions to the field.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Xu Li's dedication to TBM intelligent construction and special soil mechanics positions him as a leading figure in geotechnical engineering. His ongoing research and collaborations are poised to further expand our understanding of underground construction methods and soil behavior. Through his continued efforts, Dr. Li aims to address emerging challenges in infrastructure development and pave the way for sustainable and efficient construction practices.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

MDG: A Multi-Task Dynamic Graph Generation Framework for Multivariate Time Series Forecasting 2024