Yang Shi | Civil Engineering | Young Researcher Award

Dr. Yang Shi | Civil Engineering | Young Researcher Award

Tsinghua University | China

Dr. Yang Shi is an accomplished early-career academic specializing in coastal dynamics, fluid–structure interaction, hydrometeorology, multiphase flows, and geoinformatics-driven modeling. His research integrates physics-based numerical methods (SPH, CFD, FEM, DEM) with machine learning and remote sensing to address challenges in coastal protection, sediment transport, aerosol and cloud microphysics, and water resource systems. He has authored 40+ peer-reviewed publications in leading journals such as Journal of Fluids and Structures, Applied Ocean Research, Atmospheric Research, and Water Resources Research, achieving 464 citations and an h-index of 12. His work demonstrates strong interdisciplinarity, innovation, and real-world impact.

Citation Metrics (Google Scholar)

500

400

300

200

100

0

Citations 464

Documents 20

h-index
12

Citations
Documents
h-index


View Google Scholar Profile

Featured Publications

Mostafa Bigdeli | Civil Engineering | Editorial Board Member

Mr. Mostafa Bigdeli | Civil Engineering | Editorial Board Member

University of Ottawa | Canada

Mostafa Bigdeli is a dedicated researcher in water resources engineering and air quality modeling, recognized for his interdisciplinary work spanning atmospheric pollution, hydro-climatic assessment, and environmental fluid mechanics. His research explores particulate matter behavior, microplastic transport, evapotranspiration modeling, land–atmosphere interactions, and environmental data analytics. He has contributed significantly to understanding fine particulate pollution in urban environments, the fate and transport of marine microplastics, and the relationships between air pollutants and public health indicators. His work also advances machine-learning applications for soil moisture estimation, hydro-climatic forecasting, and predictive environmental modeling. Through publications in high-impact environmental and engineering journals, he has established a strong research profile that integrates field data, remote sensing, numerical modeling, and artificial intelligence. His scholarly contributions demonstrate a commitment to solving complex environmental challenges through innovative analytical frameworks and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Arhami, M., Hosseini, V., Shahne, M. Z., Bigdeli, M., Lai, A., & Schauer, J. J. (2017). Seasonal trends, chemical speciation and source apportionment of fine PM in Tehran. Atmospheric Environment, 153, 70–82.

Bigdeli, M., Mohammadian, A., Pilechi, A., & Taheri, M. (2022). Lagrangian modeling of marine microplastics fate and transport: The state of the science. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 10(4), 481.

Taheri, M., Mohammadian, A., Ganji, F., Bigdeli, M., & Nasseri, M. (2022). Energy-based approaches in estimating actual evapotranspiration focusing on land surface temperature: A review of methods, concepts, and challenges. Energies, 15(4), 1264.

Bigdeli, M., Taheri, M., & Mohammadian, A. (2021). Spatial sensitivity analysis of COVID-19 infections concerning the satellite-based four air pollutants levels. International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 18(3), 751–760.

Bigdeli, M., Taheri, M., & Mohammadian, A. (2023). Numerical modeling of dam-break flood flows for dry and wet sloped beds. ISH Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, 29(3), 259–269.

Taheri, M., Bigdeli, M., Imanian, H., & Mohammadian, A. (2025). An overview of evapotranspiration estimation models utilizing artificial intelligence. Water, 17(9), 1384.

 

Patrick Obunga | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Patrick Obunga | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Research Fellow at University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Mr. Patrick Obunga is a seasoned Research Fellow and Civil Engineer with over 14 years of experience in WASH, climate change, energy, food security, and science, technology, and innovation (STI). He has led multidisciplinary research and development projects across sub-Saharan Africa, working with major donors such as the World Bank, UNDP, USAID, and UNESCO. Currently pursuing a PhD in Civil Engineering at the University of Johannesburg, he holds multiple postgraduate degrees and has published on emerging water technologies and digital innovation. Patrick is known for his leadership in research, resource mobilization, and capacity building through collaborative partnerships.

📚Professional Profile

Google Scholar

🎓Academic Background

Mr. Patrick Obunga has a strong academic foundation that supports his multidisciplinary research and professional work. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Civil Engineering at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. He holds an MSc in Civil Engineering and an MA in Project Planning and Management from the University of Nairobi. Additionally, he earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management from the Kenya Institute of Management and a BSc in Agricultural Engineering from Egerton University. His diverse academic qualifications reflect a commitment to integrating engineering, management, and innovation in addressing complex development challenges across Africa and beyond.

💼Professional Experience

Mr. Patrick Obunga brings over 14 years of extensive professional experience in research, engineering, and program management. He currently serves as a Research Fellow and Resource Mobilization Coordinator at the African Centre for Technology Studies, where he leads research on WASH, climate resilience, and digital innovation. He has previously held roles as Civil Engineer, Projects Engineer, and Monitoring & Evaluation Manager, contributing to projects across sub-Saharan Africa. His work with organizations such as World Bank, UNDP, USAID, and UNESCO demonstrates his expertise in donor-funded projects, infrastructure development, and capacity building through cross-sectoral collaboration and strategic implementation.

🏆Awards and Honors

Mr. Patrick Obunga has earned recognition for his dedication to impactful research and development in water, sanitation, climate resilience, and digital innovation. His work has been featured in respected journals such as npj Clean Water and Water Practice & Technology, reflecting his contributions to advancing water technologies and sustainability practices. He has led and supported projects funded by renowned international organizations including the World Bank, UNDP, USAID, and UNESCO. While formal individual awards are not listed, his consistent leadership in high-level research initiatives and collaboration with global partners highlight his reputation as a trusted and accomplished professional.

🔬Research Focus

Mr. Patrick Obunga’s research focuses on the intersection of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), climate change, energy, food security, and digital innovation. He explores the use of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance water service delivery and reduce non-revenue water in urban systems. His work contributes to sustainable development by addressing critical challenges within the water-energy-food nexus and integrating science, technology, and innovation into practical solutions. Through collaborative research and policy-oriented projects, he aims to improve infrastructure resilience, promote environmental sustainability, and support data-driven decision-making across sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.

📋Publication Top Notes

Quantification of water loss indices in a water distribution network: a case of water and sewerage company of Nairobi City, Kenya
Year: 2025 | Cited by: 1

Review of the emerging technologies in the water sector with a focus on the deployment of Internet of Things solutions
Year: 2025

Comparative analysis on deployment of Internet of Things in management of non-revenue water in water distribution networks
Year: 2025

Assessing Deployment of Emerging Innovations and Technologies in Catalysing Sustainable Water Services Provision in Nairobi City County, Kenya: Case of Soweto Kayole Jisomee Mita
Year: 2023 | Cited by: 1

Assessing Deployment of Science, Technology & Innovation in Catalysing Sustainable Water Services Provision in Nairobi City County, Kenya: Case of Soweto Kayole Jisomee Mita
Year: 2021

Public Water Supplies, Water Policy and Management of Multifaceted Water Resources in Mathare Slums, Nairobi City County, Kenya
Year: 2020

🏷️Conclusion

Mr. Patrick Obunga is a highly qualified and impactful researcher with over 14 years of experience in WASH, climate change, water engineering, and innovation policy, making him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His academic credentials, including an ongoing PhD in Civil Engineering and dual master’s degrees, demonstrate strong scholarly commitment. He has authored peer-reviewed publications in leading journals and contributed to groundbreaking research on IoT and sustainable water systems. With proven leadership in donor-funded projects, collaboration with global agencies, and a strong focus on sustainability and capacity building, Mr. Obunga exemplifies a well-rounded, solution-oriented researcher driving real-world impact.

 

 

Fengpan Zhu | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Research Article Award

Prof. Fengpan Zhu | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Research Article Award

Prof. Fengpan Zhu, Jinhua University of Vocational Technology, China

Prof. Fengpan Zhu is the Deputy Dean of the School of Civil Engineering at Jinhua University of Vocational Technology and an Associate Professor specializing in 🧱 Geotechnical Engineering and ❄️ Frozen Soil Engineering. A native of Pujiang, Zhejiang, he holds a Master’s degree from China University of Mining and Technology and is currently pursuing his PhD. He has led over 15 research projects, published 10+ academic papers, and holds 4 invention patents. A recipient of numerous teaching honors, he actively mentors student teams in innovation competitions. Prof. Zhu plays a key role in advancing intelligent construction education in China. 📚🔬

Publication Profile

Orcid

🎓 Educational Background

Prof. Fengpan Zhu holds a solid academic foundation in civil and geotechnical engineering. He earned his Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering from the China University of Mining and Technology between September 2006 and July 2009, under the mentorship of Prof. Zhou Guoqing 🏗️. Prior to this, he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the same university between September 2002 and July 2006 🏛️. His educational journey reflects a strong dedication to infrastructure development and foundational engineering sciences, laying the groundwork for his expertise in geotechnical research and academic leadership 🌍📘

💼 Professional Experience

Prof. Fengpan Zhu has accumulated extensive experience in civil engineering education and industry. Since December 2020, he has served as an Associate Professor at the School of Civil Engineering, Jinhua University of Vocational Technology 🎓. From 2014 to 2020, he was a Lecturer at Jinhua Polytechnic, following his earlier role as an Engineer from 2012 to 2014 🏫. Between 2009 and 2012, he worked with the China Power Construction Group Corporation Limited’s East China Survey and Design Institute, first as an Assistant Engineer and later as an Engineer, contributing to transportation and municipal engineering projects

🔬 Research Focus

Prof. Fengpan Zhu focuses on geotechnical engineering with a strong emphasis on soil-structure interaction under extreme environmental conditions ❄️🏗️. His recent work, including the study titled “A CART-Based Model for Analyzing the Shear Behaviors of Frozen–Thawed Silty Clay and Structure Interface” (Applied Sciences, 2025), highlights his expertise in applying data-driven modeling techniques like CART (Classification and Regression Trees) to understand mechanical behavior in frozen-thawed soils 🧊🧪. His research integrates civil engineering, environmental geotechnics, and AI-based predictive modeling, contributing valuable insights into infrastructure stability in cold regions

Conclusion

Prof. Fengpan Zhu is a strong candidate for the Best Research Article Award, particularly for his recent 2025 publication in Applied Sciences, which demonstrates both novelty and technical depth in the field of geotechnical engineering under frozen conditions.

Publication Top Notes

A CART-Based Model for Analyzing the Shear Behaviors of Frozen–Thawed Silty Clay and Structure Interface

Fernando Branco | Civil Engineering | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Fernando Branco | Civil Engineering | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Fernando Branco, Instituto Superior Técnico, Portugal

Prof. Dr. Fernando Branco, born in 1953 in Coimbra, Portugal, is a Distinguished Full Professor at IST – University of Lisbon and an Advisory Professor at Tongji University, China. With expertise in bridge engineering, maintenance, rehabilitation, and composite materials, he has significantly contributed to structural engineering. As a global leader, he has held prominent positions in international organizations like IABSE and ECCE. Prof. Branco has supervised numerous theses, authored books and research papers, and led major engineering projects. His contributions have earned him prestigious awards, making him a renowned figure in civil engineering.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Prof. Dr. Fernando Branco pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (Structures) from IST – University of Lisbon in 1976. He obtained his Master of Applied Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Waterloo, Canada, in 1981. In 1985, he earned a PhD in Civil Engineering (Structures) from IST – University of Lisbon. Additionally, he achieved the title of Agregado in Civil Engineering in 1991. His extensive academic background has shaped his expertise in structural engineering, leading to significant contributions in research, innovation, and education.

Experience

Prof. Branco has served as a Full Professor at IST – University of Lisbon from 1996 to 2021, leading the Civil Engineering Department and the Construction Division. He was the Director of the PhD Program in Civil Engineering and the Structures Research Center. Internationally, he held leadership roles as the President of IABSE and ECCE, contributing to engineering advancements. His expertise was pivotal in major bridge projects like the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the S. João Railway Bridge, demonstrating exceptional leadership in structural design and construction management.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Branco’s illustrious career is marked by numerous accolades. Notable honors include the Harting Award from the Society for Experimental Mechanics, the Personality of the Year in Civil Engineering by CONSTRUIR Prizes, and the Polish Government Award for European Engineering quality. He received the Innovation in Construction Award in 2023 and was named an Honorary Member of IABSE. His excellence in teaching earned him the Diploma of Teaching Excellence from IST – University of Lisbon. These awards highlight his outstanding contributions to civil engineering.

Research Focus

Prof. Branco’s research spans bridge engineering, structural rehabilitation, and the application of new materials like composites. His notable contributions include advanced seismic and wind resistance studies for major cable-stayed and suspension bridges. He has explored the use of glass fiber-reinforced concrete in hybrid structures and developed optimization algorithms for bridge maintenance. His interdisciplinary research integrates sustainable practices and structural resilience, driving innovations in engineering applications and infrastructure longevity.

Publication Top Notes

📚 Thermal Effect of Firebrand Accumulation in Ceramic Roof Tiles – Fire (2025) – 0 citations
📚 Thermal Reaction of Firebrand Accumulation in Construction Materials – Case Studies in Construction Materials (2024) – 3 citations
📚 Ignition Locations and Simplified Design Guidelines for Enhancing the Resilience of Dwellings against Wildland Fires – Fire (2024) – 2 citations
📚 DIGITALIZATION AND TENDER EVALUATION IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: A BIM-INTEGRATED MCDA APPROACH SUPPORTED BY MACBETH – Journal of Information Technology in Construction (2024) – 0 citations
📚 DIGITALIZATION AND PROCUREMENT IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: AN INTEGRATED BIM-BASED APPROACH – Journal of Information Technology in Construction (2024) – 2 citations
📚 Proposal of a Fireproof Design Code for Dwellings against the Action of Wildland Fires – Resilient Cities and Structures (2023) – 3 citations
📚 Numerical Assessment of Standard Firebrand Accumulation Curve When Transferring Temperature to Contact Surfaces – Applied Sciences (Switzerland) (2023) – 5 citations
📚 Monotonic and Cyclic Sway Behaviour of 2-Dimensional Frames Made of Pultruded GFRP I-Section Profiles – Structures (2023) – 2 citations
📚 Structural Assessment of a Water Reservoir Masonry Vaulted Roof from the Nineteenth Century – Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities (2023) – 1 citation
📚 Report on Existing Fireproof Construction Guidelines for Dwellings against Wildfires – CivilEng (2023) – 5 citations

 

Muhammet Sari | Civil engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Muhammet Sari | Civil engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Muhammet Sari, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, Turkey

Mr. Muhammet Sari is a dedicated researcher and Ph.D. candidate at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, specializing in Civil Engineering. With a strong academic background, including a master’s degree (GPA: 3.56/4.00) and a bachelor’s degree (GPA: 3.82/4.00), his research interests span cemented paste backfill technology, mine waste management, geotechnics, and the reuse of industrial and agricultural waste. He has published numerous articles in top-tier journals, focusing on cemented mine backfills, their properties, and sustainability. Mr. Sari also has valuable industry experience as an R&D engineer. 🌍📚🔬🚧🌱

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Educational Background 📚🎓

Mr. Muhammet Sari is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Civil Engineering at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University (2020-present). He completed his Master’s degree in the same field at the same university, achieving a GPA of 3.56/4.00 between 2017 and 2020. Prior to that, he earned his Bachelor’s degree from Karadeniz Technical University, where he graduated with an impressive GPA of 3.82/4.00. His academic journey demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing his expertise in civil engineering, particularly in geotechnics and sustainable construction materials. 🌍💡🚧📘

Professional Experience 💼🔧

Mr. Muhammet Sari currently works as a Research Assistant in the Geotechnical Division at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University’s Department of Civil Engineering, a position he has held since 2020. During this time, he has contributed to various research projects related to geotechnics and civil engineering. Prior to this role, he served as an R&D Engineer at Dynamic Academy Software Construction Industry Trade Limited Company from 2018 to 2020. His industry experience equipped him with valuable practical skills, enabling him to apply his academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges. 🏗️🔍📊

Research Interests 🌍🔬

Mr. Muhammet Sari’s research focuses on various critical aspects of civil engineering, including Cemented Paste Backfill Technology, mine waste management, and the re-evaluation of mine waste. His work also delves into Geotechnics, Soil Mechanics, and understanding soil properties and behavior through experiments. He is passionate about soil improvement techniques and the reuse of industrial and agricultural waste in construction materials. Additionally, he applies Finite Element Analysis to assess the structural and geotechnical performance of materials. His research contributes to developing sustainable solutions in civil engineering, with a strong emphasis on waste recycling and soil improvement. 🌱🏗️⚙️

Publications Top Notes

  • Physico-chemical and micro-structural behavior of cemented mine backfill: Effect of pH in dam tailingsT Kasap, E Yilmaz, M Sari, Journal of Environmental Management, 77 citations, 2022 📊
  • Long-term ageing characteristics of cemented paste backfill: Usability of sand as a partial substitute of hazardous tailingsM Sari, E Yilmaz, T Kasap, Journal of Cleaner Production, 61 citations, 2023 ♻️
  • Strength and microstructure evolution in cemented mine backfill with low and high pH pyritic tailings: Effect of mineral admixturesM Sari, E Yilmaz, T Kasap, NU Guner, Construction and Building Materials, 61 citations, 2022 🏗️
  • Effects of mineral additives and age on microstructure evolution and durability properties of sand-reinforced cementitious mine backfillsT Kasap, E Yilmaz, M Sari, Construction and Building Materials, 54 citations, 2022 🧱
  • Exploring the link between ultrasonic and strength behavior of cementitious mine backfill by considering pore structureM Sari, E Yilmaz, T Kasap, S Karasu, Construction and Building Materials, 41 citations, 2023 🔬
  • Recycling dam tailings as cemented mine backfill: Mechanical and geotechnical propertiesT Kasap, E Yilmaz, NU Guner, M Sari, Advances in Materials Science and Engineering, 35 citations, 2022 ♻️
  • Cementitious backfill with partial replacement of Cu-rich mine tailings by sand: Rheological, mechanical and microstructural propertiesNU Guner, E Yilmaz, M Sari, T Kasap, Minerals, 20 citations, 2023 🔄
  • Predicting long-term impact of cementitious mine fill considering sand as a copper-tailings substitutionT Kasap, E Yilmaz, M Sari, S Karasu, Powder Technology, 11 citations, 2023 📈
  • Toward viable industrial solid residual waste recycling: A review of its innovative applications and future perspectivesT Keskin, E Yilmaz, T Kasap, M Sari, S Cao, Minerals, 3 citations, 2024 🌿
  • Cementitious fills with varying sand content as tailings replacement: Links to rheological, mechanical and microstructural propertiesT Kasap, E Yilmaz, M Sari, 2023 🏗️

 

 

 

Amin Foyouzati | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Amin Foyouzati | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

 Mr. Amin Foyouzati, Sharif University of Technology, Iran

Mr. Amin Foyouzati is a structural engineering researcher at Sharif University of Technology, specializing in seismic analysis and retrofitting of concrete structures. With a strong academic foundation and hands-on experience in seismic hazard studies and structural strengthening techniques, Amin continues to contribute to the advancement of seismic safety measures. His research aims to improve the resilience of structures in earthquake-prone regions, combining innovative design and cost-effective solutions.

Publication profile

Orcid Profile

Educational Background

Mr. Amin Foyouzati obtained his MSc in Structural Engineering from Sharif University of Technology in 2020. His thesis, “Investigation on Seismic Behavior of Concrete Structures with Self Centered, Post-Tensioned Shear Walls System,” was supervised by Distinguished Professor Alireza Khaloo. Prior to this, he earned his BSc in Civil Engineering from Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman in 2018, working on steel and reinforced concrete structures.

Work Experience

Amin has been an active researcher at Sharif University of Technology since 2018. Under the supervision of prominent professors like Prof. Alireza Khaloo, Prof. Fayaz Rahimzadeh Rofooei, and Horno Engineering Group Co., he has conducted significant research projects on the seismic behavior of self-centering hybrid wall systems, the development of artificial neural network models for response prediction, and innovative seismic strengthening techniques for existing concrete structures. His work has focused on both practical and theoretical aspects of structural engineering, with strong contributions to the field of seismic hazard analysis and mitigation strategies.

Research Focus

Amin’s research interests lie in the seismic behavior of concrete structures, with a particular emphasis on self-centering wall systems, seismic hazard assessments, and innovative seismic strengthening techniques for concrete frames. His work spans from developing new analytical methods to utilizing passive dampers in structures to enhancing seismic performance in high-risk seismic zones.

Publication Top Notes

Foyouzati, A., Khaloo, AR. (2024). Comprehensive analytical studies on seismic performance of concrete structures equipped with self-centered hybrid wall system in moderate to high seismic hazard zones. Bulletin of Earthquake Engineering, 22, 3979–4002. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10518-024-01913-0

Foyouzati, A., Khaloo, AR. (2024). Seismic performance assessment and fragility analysis of concrete structures equipped with self-centered hybrid wall systems. Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure. https://doi.org/10.1080/23789689.2024.2403866

Foyouzati, A., Khaloo, AR. Response prediction of self-centered concrete walls using artificial neural networks. Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure, In Revision.

Foyouzati, A., Rahimzadeh Rofooei, F. (2023). Seismic hazard assessment studies based on developed deterministic and probabilistic approaches for the central-east of Iran region. World Journal of Engineering, 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1108/WJE-04-2023-0100

Foyouzati, A. (2023). Analytical study on seismic strengthening of reinforced concrete frame equipped with steel damping system with shear mechanism fuse. Asian Journal of Civil Engineering, 25, 1115–1127. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42107-023-00820-0

Foyouzati, A. (2024). Probabilistic seismic hazard assessment studies on the central-east of Iran – Kerman region. Iranian Journal of Science and Technology Transactions of Civil Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40996-024-01428-3

Conclusion

In summary, Mr. Amin Foyouzati’s academic credentials, extensive research experience, prolific publication record, innovative methodologies, and commitment to community impact position him as an exceptional candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His contributions to the field of civil engineering are not only impressive but also vital for enhancing public safety and advancing engineering practices. Recognizing his work with this award would not only honor his achievements but also inspire further innovation in the field.