Dr. Yang Shi | Civil Engineering | Young Researcher Award
Tsinghua University | China
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Featured Publications
– Journal of Fluids and Structures, 2018
– Ocean Engineering, 2022
– Water Resources Research, 2024
Tsinghua University | China
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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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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. 📚🔬
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 🌍📘
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📚 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
Mr. Muhammet Sari, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, Turkey
Professional Experience 💼🔧
Research Interests 🌍🔬
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.