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.

 

Sina Farahani | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sina Farahani | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Shahid Chamran University | Iran

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sina Farahani is a dedicated researcher in Structural and Earthquake Engineering, with expertise spanning seismic design of structures, offshore wind turbine foundations, soil–structure interaction, and performance-based design. His research integrates advanced computational modeling, finite element analysis, and machine learning techniques to improve the seismic resilience of reinforced concrete and steel structures. Assist. Prof. Dr. Sina Farahani’s recent works, published in prestigious journals such as Engineering Structures, Earthquake Engineering & Structural Dynamics, Computers and Geotechnics, and Structures, focus on liquefaction-induced settlement prediction, buckling-restrained braced frames, and AI-driven settlement forecasting frameworks for offshore foundations. He has significantly contributed to developing displacement-based seismic design methodologies, offering new insights into the nonlinear dynamic behavior and optimization of complex structural systems. A member of several national and international engineering societies, Assist. Prof. Dr. Sina Farahani continues to advance sustainable and resilient structural engineering solutions through innovative interdisciplinary research and impactful publications.

Profile: Google scholar

Featured Publications

  • Farahani, S., Akhaveissy, A. H., & Damkilde, L. (2021). Equivalent viscous damping for buckling-restrained braced RC frame structures. Structures, 34, 1229–1252.

  • Nazarimofrad, E., Farahani, S., & Zahrai, S. M. (2019). Multiobjective optimal placement of active tendons to control irregular multistory buildings with soil–structure interaction. The Structural Design of Tall and Special Buildings, 28(4), e1581.

  • Farahani, S., & Barari, A. (2023). A simplified procedure for the prediction of liquefaction‐induced settlement of offshore wind turbines supported by suction caisson foundation based on effective stress analyses. Earthquake Engineering & Structural Dynamics, 52(15), 5072–5098.

  • Mohebkhah, A., & Farahani, S. (2016). Seismic behavior of direct displacement-based designed eccentrically braced frames. International Journal of Engineering—Transactions C: Aspects, 29(6), 752–760.

  • Moghaddam, A., Barari, A., Farahani, S., Tabarsa, A., & Jeng, D. S. (2023). Effective stress analysis of residual wave-induced liquefaction around caisson-foundations: Bearing capacity degradation and an AI-based framework for predicting settlement. Computers and Geotechnics, 159, 105364.

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

 

Arun Kumar Ammasi | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Arun Kumar Ammasi | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Arun Kumar Ammasi, Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai, India

Dr. Arun Kumar Ammasi is a dedicated researcher and educator with a robust background in civil engineering. His research focuses on innovative applications of concrete materials, including the incorporation of plastic, rubber, and electronic wastes into concrete production. His work extends to using treated sewage sludge in manufacturing bricks, pavement, and solid blocks, contributing to sustainable construction practices. Dr. Ammasi explores Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC) and Smart Dynamic Concrete (SDC) for enhanced structural performance. Additionally, his expertise encompasses the utilization of coal combustion products and the development of engineered geo-polymeric cementitious composites. In teaching, he emphasizes advanced concrete technology, construction materials, structural analysis, and more. Dr. Ammasi employs a dynamic teaching methodology, incorporating Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Research-Based Learning (RBL) to engage students effectively. He adopts a flipped classroom pedagogy, integrates contemporary assignments, and emphasizes continuous assessment for comprehensive learning. As the Head of the Department for Civil and Structural Engineering at VIT Chennai Campus, Dr. Ammasi also excels in administrative roles, demonstrating leadership and commitment to academic excellence. 🏗️🔬📚

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Arun Kumar Ammasi’s academic journey reflects a profound commitment to excellence in civil engineering. He completed his Doctor of Philosophy, focusing on the effects of fly ash on concrete properties, through an integrated Ph.D. program at VIT University from 2009 to 2015. 🏗️ His undergraduate studies were equally impressive, earning a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Integrated degree with a remarkable 8 CGPA from Vellore Institute of Technology. 📚 Dr. Ammasi’s foundation in civil engineering began with a B.Tech. degree from Sona College of Technology, Anna University, Chennai, where he achieved an outstanding overall percentage of 81%. 🎓 His academic prowess extends to his secondary education, showcasing exceptional performance in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and biology. 🏫

Research Experience:

During his tenure as a Research Assistant at VIT University from 2009 to 2014, Dr. Arun Kumar Ammasi delved into innovative studies in green concrete 🌱. His research encompassed experimental investigations, evaluating the viability of substituting traditional components with coal ashes. Through meticulous analysis, he assessed concrete strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness, contributing significantly to sustainable construction practices. Dr. Ammasi’s expertise extended to developing predictive models for drying shrinkage in green concrete over a decade, enhancing long-term performance. Additionally, he pioneered the manufacture of artificial cold-bonded fly ash aggregates, a breakthrough in designing high-strength green concrete structures. 🧪🔬

Teaching Experience:

As an Associate Professor at VIT University Chennai Campus since July 2014, Dr. Arun Kumar Ammasi has demonstrated a passion for imparting knowledge in civil engineering disciplines 🏫. His extensive teaching portfolio includes courses for both B.Tech. Civil Engineering and M.Tech. Structural Engineering programs. Dr. Ammasi’s expertise encompasses a wide array of subjects such as Advanced Concrete Technology, Structural Analysis, and Finite Element Analysis, among others. 📚 Additionally, his role as a Teaching Assistant from 2010 to June 2014 involved conducting laboratory classes, where he facilitated hands-on learning experiences in RCC, limit state design of steel and concrete, and finite element analysis using Auto CAD, Staad Pro, and FORTRAN. 🖥️🧱

Awards:

Dr. Arun Kumar Ammasi’s contributions to the field of civil engineering have been recognized through several prestigious awards 🏆. Notably, he received the Best Paper Award at the IEEE conference held at EGS Pillay Engineering College, Nagapattinam, in March 2013, affirming the quality and significance of his research. Furthermore, Dr. Ammasi has been honored with Research Publication Awards for his publications in international peer-reviewed journals, spanning the years 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017. These accolades underscore his dedication to producing impactful scholarly work and advancing knowledge in his field. 📝🌐

 Research Focus :

Dr. Arun Kumar Ammasi’s research focus primarily lies in sustainable construction materials and innovative applications in civil engineering 🌱. He has made significant contributions to the utilization of industrial by-products such as fly ash and sewage sludge in concrete production, emphasizing the enhancement of strength and durability while promoting environmental sustainability. Additionally, Dr. Ammasi’s work extends to eco-efficiency evaluations of self-compacting concrete using unconventional materials like magnesite mine waste, further highlighting his commitment to advancing eco-friendly construction practices. Through his interdisciplinary research efforts, he continually seeks to address contemporary challenges in the construction industry, paving the way for more sustainable and resilient infrastructure solutions. 🏗️🔬

Publication Top  Notes: