Lei Liu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Lei Liu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Zhejiang University, China

Prof. Liu Lei is a Young Profenications, information theory, and signal processing. Liu received his Ph.D. in Communication and Information Systems from Xidian University and enriched his academic foundation as a visiting scholar at NTU Singapore. His postdoctoral and research appointments span SUTD, CityU Hong Kong, and JAIST Japan. Honored under ZJUโ€™s Hundred Talents Program, he actively leads in editorial and conference roles. With a track record of cutting-edge research, Prof. Liu has authored 39+ high-impact journal articles and continues to influence future innovations in modern channel coding and massive MIMO. ๐Ÿง ๐Ÿ“ก

Professional Profileย 

๐ŸŽ“ Education

Prof. Liu Lei began his academic journey in 2011 at Xidian University, earning his Ph.D. in Communication and Information System in March 2017. During his doctoral studies, he broadened his expertise with a prestigious exchange opportunity at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore (2014โ€“2016), where he engaged with globally renowned researchers in the field of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. This international exposure shaped his foundational understanding of statistical signal processing and message-passing algorithms. His academic pursuits combined rigorous theoretical knowledge with practical algorithmic development, laying the groundwork for his future innovations in wireless communication systems and information theory. ๐Ÿ“˜๐ŸŒ๐ŸŽ“

๐Ÿ’ผExperienceย 

Prof. Liu Lei has cultivated a rich academic career across leading global institutions. He began as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at SUTD, Singapore (2016โ€“2017), followed by a Research Fellow role at City University of Hong Kong (2017โ€“2019). He then served as Assistant Professor at JAIST, Japan (2019โ€“2023), achieving top research rankings among faculty. Since 2023, he has been a Tenure-Track Young Professor and Doctoral Supervisor at Zhejiang University. His expertise spans message passing, compressed sensing, and channel coding. Prof. Liu has been active in IEEE conferences, serving in key editorial and chairing roles, and is a notable reviewer for top-tier journals. ๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿซ

๐Ÿ† Awards & Honors

Prof. Liu Lei has received several prestigious accolades for his research excellence. In 2023, he was honored with the Young Star Award and the Best Poster Award at the 30th Chinese Institute of Electronics Conference on Information Theory (CIEIT), recognizing his impactful contributions to information theory. His dedication to academic rigor earned him the Exemplary Reviewer Award from IEEE Transactions on Communications in 2020, an honor bestowed on less than 2% of reviewers. These distinctions underscore his leadership in developing cutting-edge algorithms and his commitment to advancing wireless communication systems. ๐Ÿฅ‡๐ŸŽ–๏ธ๐Ÿ…

๐Ÿ”ฌ Research Focusย 

Prof. Liuโ€™s research focuses on the development of high-performance algorithms and theoretical frameworks in wireless communications. His interests include Message Passing Theory, Statistical Signal Processing, Compressed Sensing, Modern Channel Coding, and Information Theory. He is especially noted for innovations in Approximate Message Passing (AMP) and Orthogonal AMP (OAMP) algorithms. His work aims to optimize capacity and performance in massive MIMO, NOMA, and RIS-aided systems. Prof. Liu’s vision integrates theoretical depth with engineering applications, contributing to next-generation communication systems with greater efficiency, robustness, and scalability. ๐Ÿ“ก๐Ÿ“Š๐Ÿ”

๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Skillsย 

Prof. Liu Lei has extensive expertise in ๐Ÿ“ถ wireless communication, particularly in emerging technologies such as massive MIMO, NOMA, mmWave, and Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) systems. His work contributes to optimizing spectral efficiency and network reliability in next-generation wireless networks.

In the field of ๐Ÿ“ signal processing, he is highly skilled in compressed sensing and advanced channel estimation techniques, which enhance data recovery and transmission accuracy in complex environments.

His foundation in ๐Ÿ“Š information theory is robust, focusing on coding theory, achievable rates, and capacity optimization, all critical to efficient communication system design.

Prof. Liu is also a specialist in ๐Ÿงฎ message passing algorithms, including AMP, OAMP, GAMP, and GVAMP, which he applies to both theoretical models and practical systems.

He leverages ๐Ÿ”— machine learning tools such as neural networks and variational inference to improve signal decoding.

In addition, he is experienced in ๐Ÿ“š academic publishing and ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿซ teaching, mentoring students in both foundational and advanced courses.

๐Ÿ“š Publications Top Noteย 

  1. Iterative Channel Estimation Using LSE and Sparse Message Passing for MmWave MIMO Systems

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: C. Huang, L. Liu, C. Yuen, S. Sun

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Signal Processing

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 161

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2018

  2. Capacity-Achieving MIMO-NOMA: Iterative LMMSE Detection

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: L. Liu, Y. Chi, C. Yuen, Y.L. Guan, Y. Li

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Signal Processing

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 151

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2019

  3. User Activity Detection and Channel Estimation for Grant-Free Random Access in LEO Satellite-Enabled IoT

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: Z. Zhang, Y. Li, C. Huang, Q. Guo, L. Liu, C. Yuen, Y.L. Guan

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Internet of Things Journal

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 149

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2020

  4. Gaussian Message Passing for Overloaded Massive MIMO-NOMA

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: L. Liu, C. Yuen, Y.L. Guan, Y. Li, C. Huang

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 140

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2019

  5. Convergence Analysis and Assurance for Gaussian Message Passing in Massive MU-MIMO Systems

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: L. Liu, C. Yuen, Y.L. Guan, Y. Li, Y. Su

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 108

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2016

  6. Practical MIMO-NOMA: Low Complexity and Capacity-Approaching Solution

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: Y. Chi, L. Liu, G. Song, C. Yuen, Y.L. Guan, Y. Li

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 84

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2018

  7. Memory AMP

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: L. Liu, S. Huang, B.M. Kurkoski

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Information Theory

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 83

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2022

  8. Orthogonal AMP for Massive Access in Channels with Spatial and Temporal Correlations

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: Y. Cheng, L. Liu, L. Ping

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 68

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2021

  9. Capacity Optimality of AMP in Coded Systems

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: L. Liu, C. Liang, J. Ma, L. Ping

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Information Theory

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 53

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2021

  10. On Orthogonal AMP in Coded Linear Vector Systems

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: J. Ma, L. Liu, X. Yuan, L. Ping

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 39

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2019

  11. A New Insight into GAMP and AMP

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: L. Liu, Y. Li, C. Huang, C. Yuen, Y.L. Guan

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 31

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2019

  12. Over-the-Air Implementation of Uplink NOMA

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: S. Abeywickrama, L. Liu, Y.C. Yuhao, Chi

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Conference: IEEE Globecom

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 31

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2018

  13. Asymptotically Optimal Estimation for Sparse Signal with Arbitrary Distributions

    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿคโ€๐Ÿง‘ Authors: C. Huang, L. Liu, C. Yuen

    • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology

    • ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 28

    • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2018

๐Ÿ Conclusion

Dr. Lei Liu exemplifies the qualities of a Best Researcher Award recipient: depth in theoretical research, breadth in global experience, and excellence in teaching and mentorship. His leadership roles, prolific output, and rising trajectory within academic and engineering communities make him a model scholar in the communications field. While areas like applied innovation and interdisciplinary expansion offer room for growth, his current achievements already place him at the forefront of his domain.

Farshad Nobakhtkolour | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Farshad Nobakhtkolour | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at K.N.Toosi University of Technology, Iran

Farshad Nobakht-Kolur ๐ŸŽ“ is a passionate civil engineer specializing in marine structures and offshore renewable energy ๐ŸŒŠโšก. He earned his M.Sc. in Coasts, Ports, and Marine Structures from K. N. Toosi University of Technology and his B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from Shahrood University ๐Ÿซ. Farshadโ€™s research focuses on floating structures, marine hydrodynamics, and aquaculture engineering ๐Ÿšข๐ŸŒฑ. He has published multiple journal papers and served as a peer reviewer ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ–‹๏ธ. A top-ranked student throughout his academic journey ๐Ÿ†, he continues to contribute actively to the marine engineering community through research, reviews, and professional memberships ๐Ÿค.

Professional Profile:

Orcid

Scopus

๐Ÿ”ต Education and Experienceย 

  • ๐ŸŽ“ M.Sc. in Coasts, Ports, and Marine Structures โ€“ K. N. Toosi University of Technology (2016-2019)

  • ๐ŸŽ“ B.Sc. in Civil Engineering โ€“ Shahrood University of Technology (2009-2013)

  • ๐Ÿซ Diploma in Mathematics and Physics โ€“ Bagher-al-Olum High School (2005-2009)

  • ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿซ Teaching Assistant โ€“ Shahrood University of Technology (Statics & Steel Structures Courses)

  • ๐Ÿงช Researcher โ€“ Published papers in top marine and fluid mechanics journals

  • ๐Ÿ“‘ Conference Presenter โ€“ Marine Industries Conference and academic workshops

๐Ÿ”ต Professional Developmentย 

Farshad Nobakht-Kolur has actively contributed to professional growth through memberships and peer reviewing ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ๐Ÿ“–. He is a member of the Iranian Coastal and Marine Structural Engineering Association (ICOMSEA) ๐ŸŒ, and The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) ๐Ÿงช๐Ÿ”. Farshad has reviewed articles for prestigious journals like Ocean Engineering and Journal of Modern Green Energy โœ๏ธ๐Ÿ“˜. His commitment to continuous learning and sharing knowledge is evident through his workshop presentations, paper publications, and involvement with academic and industrial bodies ๐ŸŒŸ. Farshadโ€™s work bridges the gap between theoretical research and real-world marine engineering solutions ๐ŸŒŠ๐Ÿ”—.

๐Ÿ”ต Research Focus Categoryย 

Farshad Nobakht-Kolurโ€™s research focus lies in marine and offshore engineering ๐ŸŒŠ๐Ÿ”ง. His primary interests include floating wind turbines, floating solar islands, offshore renewable energy structures, and aquaculture engineering ๐ŸŒฑโšก. He specializes in fluid-structure interaction, experimental modeling, and numerical simulation ๐Ÿงช๐Ÿ’ป. Farshadโ€™s work emphasizes sustainable marine structures like floating seaweed farms and hybrid platforms that support renewable energy production and food security ๐ŸŒฟ๐Ÿ”‹. Through advanced physical modeling and hydrodynamic analysis, he contributes innovative solutions to the growing demands of the offshore and marine industry ๐Ÿšข๐ŸŒ.

๐Ÿ”ต Awards and Honorsย 

  • ๐Ÿฅ‡ First rank โ€“ Best Graduate M.Sc. Students in Marine Engineering, Iranian Marine Industries Organization, 2022

  • ๐Ÿฅˆ Second rank โ€“ Top MSc Students in Marine Structure Engineering, 2019

  • ๐Ÿง  Top 1% โ€“ MSc Entrance Exam of Universities, 2016

  • ๐ŸŽ“ Top 10% โ€“ B.Sc. Students in Civil Engineering, 2013

  • ๐Ÿง  Top 1% โ€“ University Entrance Exam, 2009

  • ๐ŸŽ–๏ธ Top 10 โ€“ High School Graduates, 2009

Publication Top Notes

  1. Effects of soft marine fouling on wave-induced forces in floating aquaculture cages: Physical model testing under regular waves

    • Journal: Ocean Engineering

    • Date: October 2021

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.oceaneng.2021.109759

    • Focus: How soft biofouling (like algae and soft marine growth) changes the forces exerted on aquaculture cages when regular waves hit them, using physical model tests.

  2. Hydrodynamic forces in marine-fouled floating aquaculture cages: Physical modelling under irregular waves

    • Journal: Journal of Fluids and Structures

    • Date: August 2021

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.jfluidstructs.2021.103331

    • Focus: Similar to above but testing under irregular waves (more realistic sea conditions), focusing on how fouling affects hydrodynamic forces.

  3. Wave attenuation/build-up around and inside marine fouled floating aquaculture cages under regular wave regimes

    • Journal: Journal of Ocean Engineering and Marine Energy

    • Date: February 24, 2021

    • DOI: 10.1007/s40722-021-00186-y

    • Focus: Investigating wave energy behaviorโ€”whether it’s dampened (attenuated) or amplified (build-up)โ€”around/inside fouled cages during regular waves.

  4. Experimental Modelling of Biofouling Effects on the Regular and Irregular Waves Load in Aquaculture Cages

    • Institution: K. N. Toosi University of Technology

    • Type: Dissertation/Thesis

    • Year: 2019

    • DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.28208.48644

    • Focus: The early foundational work by Farshad Nobakht-Kolur, focusing on both regular and irregular waves and their loading effects on biofouled cages, likely forming the base for the later journal papers.

Conclusion

Farshad Nobakht-Kolur demonstrates all the qualities of a promising and impactful researcher: scientific excellence, originality, practical application of research, international publication record, and community engagement.
In my opinion, he is a highly suitable and strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award โ€” particularly within the fields of marine structures, offshore engineering, and renewable energy systems.

Guanqun Li | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Guanqun Li | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Associate Researcher at Shengli oilfield, SINOPEC, China

Guanqun Li (ๆŽๅ† ็พค), born in May 1994 in Shandong, China ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ, is an Associate Researcher at Shengli Oilfield Company, SINOPEC ๐Ÿ›ข๏ธ. He earned his PhD in Oil and Gas Field Development Engineering from China University of Petroleum (East China) ๐ŸŽ“. His work focuses on the microscopic characterization of shale reservoirs and fluid dynamics in oil and gas systems ๐Ÿ”ฌ๐Ÿ’ง. With numerous publications in top journals like Fuel and Physics of Fluids ๐Ÿ“š, he brings innovation to shale oil recovery technologies. Passionate about fractal modeling and fluid imbibition research, Guanqun Li is contributing significantly to modern energy development โš™๏ธ๐ŸŒ.

Professional Profile:

Scopus

๐Ÿ”น Education and Experienceย 

  • ๐ŸŽ“ Sep. 2016 โ€“ June 2019: Masterโ€™s in Oil and Gas Field Development Engineering, Yangtze University

  • ๐Ÿ“š Sep. 2019 โ€“ June 2023: PhD in Oil and Gas Field Development Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China)

  • ๐Ÿข July 2023 โ€“ Present: Associate Researcher, Shengli Oilfield Company, SINOPEC

๐Ÿ”น Professional Developmentย 

Dr. Guanqun Li ๐Ÿ“˜ has shown consistent professional growth, moving from academic research to applied industry innovation. His academic journey through Yangtze University and the China University of Petroleum provided a solid foundation in oilfield development โš’๏ธ. At SINOPEC, he applies his expertise in reservoir simulation, fracturing mechanics, and fluid flow modeling ๐Ÿ”ฌ. He actively contributes to peer-reviewed journals and international conferences ๐ŸŒ. Guanqun continuously develops novel analytical and fractal models for imbibition in shale formations ๐ŸŒ€. His cross-disciplinary collaboration and technical excellence are hallmarks of his evolving career in the energy sector ๐Ÿš€.

๐Ÿ”น Research Focus Categoryย 

Guanqun Liโ€™s research centers on unconventional oil and gas recovery, specifically shale oil reservoir characterization and fluid imbibition mechanisms ๐Ÿ›ข๏ธ๐Ÿ’ง. His work explores microscale fluid motion, fractal modeling, and productivity analysis in hydraulically fractured formations ๐Ÿ”๐Ÿ“ˆ. He is especially interested in the spontaneous and forced imbibition processes in complex porous media under various boundary conditions ๐Ÿงช. His models help optimize horizontal well performance and support enhanced oil recovery (EOR) strategies ๐Ÿง โš™๏ธ. With a clear focus on improving efficiency in volume fracturing and fluid migration mechanisms, his research is highly impactful in modern petroleum engineering ๐Ÿšง.

๐Ÿ”น Awards and Honorsย 

  • ๐Ÿ… Interpore Conference Presentation (2020) โ€“ Recognized for outstanding research on production enhancement in fractured wells

  • ๐Ÿ“– Multiple First-Author Publications โ€“ Published in top journals like Fuel, Physics of Fluids, and Energy & Fuels

  • ๐Ÿง  Acknowledged for Innovative Fractal Modeling โ€“ In spontaneous/forced imbibition in shale formations

  • ๐Ÿฅ‡ Highly Cited Review Paper โ€“ On EOR techniques in shale oil (Geofluids, 2021)

Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Quantifying lithofacies-dependent imbibition behavior in continental shale oil by fractal modeling: A case study of the gentle slope fault zone, Jiyang DepressionAuthors: Li Guanqun, Peng Yanxia, Yang Yong, Cao Xiaopeng, Su YuliangJournal: Fuel

    Year: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Guanqun Li stands out as an emerging leader in petroleum reservoir engineering with clear scientific originality, engineering relevance, and a solid record of first-author publications in high-impact journals. His work has contributed meaningfully to advancing the understanding of shale oil imbibition mechanisms and their application in field operations.

Sahar Ghatrehsamani | Engineering | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Sahar Ghatrehsamani | Engineering | Best Scholar Award

Postdoctoral at Isfahan University of Technology, Iran

Dr. Sahar Ghatrehsamani is a passionate mechanical engineer specializing in tribology, with a strong background in machine learning and surface engineering. She earned her Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Isfahan University of Technology (IUT), Iran (2022) and is currently a postdoctoral researcher at IUT, applying AI techniques to predict the tribological behavior of agricultural machinery. With expertise in CAD, FEA, and statistical analysis, she has contributed significantly to teaching, research, and mentoring students. Her work intersects materials science, additive manufacturing, and precision agriculture, making her a versatile and innovative researcher. ๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ”ฌ

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Google Scholar

Education & Experience

๐Ÿ“š Education:

  • ๐ŸŽ“ Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (Tribology) โ€“ Isfahan University of Technology, Iran (2017-2022)

  • ๐ŸŽ“ M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering (Tribology) โ€“ Isfahan University of Technology, Iran (2015-2017)

  • ๐ŸŽ“ B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering (Biosystem) โ€“ Shahrekord University, Iran (2009-2013)

๐Ÿ”ฌ Experience:

  • ๐Ÿ” Postdoctoral Researcher โ€“ Isfahan University of Technology, Iran (2024-Present)

  • ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿซ Teaching Experience โ€“ Multiple undergraduate courses in mechanical engineering at IUT (2018-Present)

  • ๐Ÿค Co-Advisor โ€“ 2 Master’s & 6 Bachelor’s students

Professional Development

Dr. Sahar Ghatrehsamani is dedicated to research, teaching, and innovation in mechanical engineering, particularly in tribology, surface engineering, and AI-driven modeling. She has actively mentored students, guided research projects, and developed expertise in CAD, numerical simulation, and data analysis. Her teaching career at Isfahan University of Technology spans multiple engineering courses, and she has consistently ranked highly in teaching evaluations. Passionate about bridging the gap between mechanical engineering and materials science, she explores new technologies in additive manufacturing and precision agriculture to enhance sustainability and performance. ๐Ÿšœ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ

Research Focus

Dr. Sahar Ghatrehsamani’s research spans multiple engineering domains, focusing on:

  • ๐ŸŽ๏ธ Tribology โ€“ Studying friction, wear, and lubrication for various applications

  • ๐Ÿญ Surface Engineering โ€“ Enhancing material properties for durability and efficiency

  • ๐Ÿค– Machine Learning & AI โ€“ Applying predictive modeling in tribological behavior and material design

  • ๐Ÿ— Mechanical Behavior of Materials โ€“ Understanding stress, strain, and failure mechanics

  • ๐Ÿšœ Precision Agriculture โ€“ Developing efficient and smart agricultural machinery

  • ๐Ÿ–จ๏ธ Additive Manufacturing โ€“ Investigating 3D printing & advanced manufacturing

  • ๐Ÿ“Š Data Analysis & Numerical Modeling โ€“ Integrating simulation techniques for engineering solutions

Awards & Honors

Teaching Excellence:

  • ๐ŸŽ–๏ธ Ranked 1st in Mechanical Engineering Group (2021)

  • ๐Ÿ… Ranked 2nd in College of Engineering (2021)

  • ๐Ÿ† Ranked 13th among 569 faculty members at IUT (2021)

Research Contributions:

  • ๐Ÿ“œ Published multiple high-impact research papers in tribology and AI modeling

  • ๐ŸŒ Contributed to international collaborations in mechanical engineering research

๐Ÿš€ Her dedication to education, research, and innovation has established her as a rising expert in tribology and machine learning!

Publication Top Notes

  1. On the running-in nature of metallic tribo-components: A review

    • Authors: M.M. Khonsari, S. Ghatrehsamani, S. Akbarzadeh

    • Journal: Wear (Vol. 474, 2021)

    • Citations: 113

    • Summary: A comprehensive review of the running-in phase in metallic tribo-systems, examining the changes in friction, wear, and surface topography over time.

  2. Experimentally verified prediction of friction coefficient and wear rate during running-in dry contact

    • Authors: S. Ghatrehsamani, S. Akbarzadeh, M.M. Khonsari

    • Journal: Tribology International (Vol. 170, 2022)

    • Citations: 41

    • Summary: Experimental validation of predictive models for friction and wear rate during the running-in phase under dry contact conditions.

  3. Experimental and numerical study of the running-in wear coefficient during dry sliding contact

    • Authors: S. Ghatrehsamani, S. Akbarzadeh, M.M. Khonsari

    • Journal: Surface Topography: Metrology and Properties (Vol. 9, Issue 1, 2021)

    • Citations: 25

    • Summary: Investigates the wear coefficient during dry sliding contact using both experimental methods and numerical simulations.

  4. Predicting the wear coefficient and friction coefficient in dry point contact using continuum damage mechanics

    • Authors: S. Ghatrehsamani, S. Akbarzadeh

    • Journal: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part J: Journal of Engineering Tribology (2019)

    • Citations: 23

    • Summary: Develops a predictive framework for wear and friction coefficients in dry point contact using continuum damage mechanics.

  5. Application of continuum damage mechanics to predict wear in systems subjected to variable loading

    • Authors: S. Ghatrehsamani, S. Akbarzadeh, M.M. Khonsari

    • Journal: Tribology Letters (Vol. 69, 2021)

    • Citations: 15

    • Summary: Extends continuum damage mechanics principles to predict wear in tribological systems under varying load conditions.

Conclusion

Sahar Ghatrehsamani is a strong candidate for the Best Scholar Award. Her contributions to tribology, AI-driven material predictions, and mechanical behavior research are significant. She excels in both academic and applied research, making notable interdisciplinary advancements. Given her teaching excellence, mentorship, and research output, she is highly deserving of recognition as a leading researcher in her field.

Guanwei Jia | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Guanwei Jia | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Henan University, China

Guanwei jia (born in 1982) is an associate professor at the School of Physics and Electronics, Henan University, China. He holds a BSc in Electronic Information Engineering (2006), an MSc in Mechanical Engineering (2012), and a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Beihang University (2018). His research focuses on hydrogen-blended natural gas pipeline transportation and energy storage. By Spring 2025, he has 38 publications indexed in Web of Science. His contributions aim to enhance energy efficiency and sustainable energy solutions, making him a key figure in the field of energy engineering. ๐Ÿ”ฌโšก

Professional Profile:

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Education & Experience ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ“œ

  • BSc in Electronic Information Engineering โ€“ 2006 ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ“ก

  • MSc in Mechanical Engineering โ€“ 2012 ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ๐Ÿ“Š

  • Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (Beihang University) โ€“ 2018 ๐ŸŽ“โš™๏ธ

  • Associate Professor, Henan University โ€“ Present ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Professional Development ๐Ÿš€๐Ÿ”

Guanwei jia has significantly contributed to energy research, particularly in hydrogen-blended natural gas pipeline transportation and energy storage. His work integrates advanced mechanical engineering techniques with sustainable energy solutions. With 38 Web of Science-indexed publications, his research provides insights into energy optimization and pipeline safety. He collaborates with industry and academia to advance clean energy technologies. As an associate professor, he mentors students and leads research projects, fostering innovation in energy sustainability. His efforts in alternative energy solutions contribute to global efforts for a cleaner and more efficient energy future. ๐Ÿ”ฌโšก๐ŸŒ

Research Focus ๐Ÿ”ฌโšก

Guanwei jia specializes in hydrogen-blended natural gas transportation and energy storage, addressing key challenges in pipeline safety, efficiency, and sustainability. His research explores how hydrogen integration in natural gas pipelines enhances energy efficiency while reducing carbon emissions. By leveraging mechanical engineering principles, he aims to develop secure and cost-effective storage solutions. His studies help advance the transition toward renewable energy, making natural gas pipelines adaptable for future hydrogen-based energy systems. His findings are valuable for energy infrastructure development, ensuring a safer, cleaner, and more efficient energy network for the future. โš™๏ธ๐ŸŒโšก

Awards & Honors ๐Ÿ†๐ŸŽ–๏ธ

  • 38 Web of Science-indexed publications ๐Ÿ“‘๐Ÿ”

  • Recognized for contributions to hydrogen-blended gas research โšก๐Ÿ”ฌ

  • Active mentor and researcher in energy storage solutions ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ“š

  • Key collaborator in sustainable energy initiatives ๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ”‹

Publication Top Notes

  1. “Water Vapour Condensation Behaviour within Hydrogen-Blended Natural Gas in Laval Nozzles”

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    • Journal: Case Studies in Thermal Engineering

    • Publication Date: March 2025

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.csite.2025.106064

    • Summary: This study investigates how water vapor condenses in hydrogen-blended natural gas as it flows through Laval nozzles. Understanding this behavior is crucial for optimizing nozzle design and ensuring efficient operation in systems utilizing hydrogen-enriched natural gas.โ€‹

  2. “Simulation Study on Hydrogen Concentration Distribution in Hydrogen Blended Natural Gas Transportation Pipeline”

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    • Journal: PLOS ONE

    • Publication Date: December 3, 2024

    • DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0314453

    • Summary: This research employs simulations to analyze how hydrogen distributes within natural gas pipelines when blended. The findings provide insights into maintaining consistent hydrogen concentrations, which is vital for pipeline safety and efficiency.โ€‹

  3. “Numerical Simulation of the Transport and Thermodynamic Properties of Imported Natural Gas Injected with Hydrogen in the Manifold”

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    • Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

    • Publication Date: February 2024

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2023.11.178

    • Summary: This paper presents numerical simulations examining how injecting hydrogen into imported natural gas affects its transport and thermodynamic properties within a manifold. The study aims to inform strategies for integrating hydrogen into existing natural gas infrastructures.โ€‹

  4. “Performance Analysis of Multiple Structural Parameters of Injectors for Hydrogen-Mixed Natural Gas Using Orthogonal Experimental Methods”

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    • Journal: Physics of Fluids

    • Publication Date: November 1, 2023

    • DOI: 10.1063/5.0175018

    • Summary: This study evaluates how various structural parameters of injectors influence the performance of hydrogen-mixed natural gas systems. Using orthogonal experimental methods, the research identifies optimal injector designs to enhance efficiency and reliability.โ€‹

  5. “Ultrasonic Gas Flow Metering in Hydrogen-Mixed Natural Gas Using Lamb Waves”

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    • Journal: AIP Advances

    • Publication Date: November 1, 2023

    • DOI: 10.1063/5.0172477

    • Summary: This paper explores the application of Lamb waves in ultrasonic gas flow metering for hydrogen-mixed natural gas. The research demonstrates the effectiveness of this non-contact method in accurately measuring gas flow, which is essential for monitoring and controlling gas distribution systems.

Conclusion

While Guanwei Jia has made valuable contributions to the field of hydrogen energy and pipeline transportation, his suitability for a Best Researcher Award would depend on additional factors such as citations, research impact, industry collaborations, patents, and leadership in major projects. If he has demonstrated exceptional influence beyond publicationsโ€”such as shaping energy policies, leading significant projects, or achieving high citation impactโ€”he would be a strong candidate for the award.

Shakil Ahmed | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Shakil Ahmed | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Processor, Term at Iowa State University, United States

Shakil Ahmed is an Assistant Teaching Professor in Computer Engineering at Iowa State University (ISU), specializing in AI/ML, cybersecurity, IoT, cloud computing, and advanced networking. With a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering from ISU (2023) and over 2,000 citations across 35+ publications, he leads cutting-edge research on AI-driven solutions, digital twins, and quantum networks. As a principal investigator (PI), he mentors undergraduate, MS, and Ph.D. students while actively securing external grants. His expertise spans reinforcement learning, large language models, explainable AI, and meta-learning, contributing to pioneering advancements in next-gen networking and intelligent systems. ๐Ÿš€๐Ÿ”

Professional Profile

Education & Experience ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿซ

  • Ph.D. in Computer Engineering โ€“ Iowa State University (2023) ๐ŸŽ“
  • M.S. in Electrical Engineering โ€“ Utah State University (2019) โšก
  • B.S. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering โ€“ Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Bangladesh (2014) ๐Ÿ…
  • Assistant Teaching Professor โ€“ Iowa State University (2024โ€“Present) ๐ŸŽ“
  • Researcher & PI โ€“ Leading projects on AI, 6G, cybersecurity, IoT, and digital twins ๐Ÿ”ฌ
  • Advisor & Mentor โ€“ Supervising undergraduate, MS, and Ph.D. students in advanced networking and AI ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

Professional Development ๐Ÿ“ˆ๐Ÿง 

Shakil Ahmed actively contributes to AI-driven networking, secure systems, and IoT advancements. He plays a vital role in research funding, securing grants exceeding millions of dollars. As a guest editor at MDPI and reviewer for 150+ articles, he ensures high research standards. His teaching experience spans multiple STEM courses, where he integrates hands-on learning tools like Zybooks and Canvas. He has delivered invited talks on next-gen wireless technologies and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to shape the future of AI, cloud computing, and quantum networking. His work has significantly impacted academia, research, and industry. ๐Ÿš€๐Ÿ”ฌ๐Ÿ“ก

Research Focus ๐Ÿ†๐Ÿ”

Shakil Ahmedโ€™s research is at the intersection of AI, networking, and cybersecurity, with a focus on:

  • AI/ML & Deep Learning โ€“ Reinforcement Learning (RL), Large Language Models (LLM), Explainable AI (XAI) ๐Ÿค–
  • Cybersecurity & Quantum Networking โ€“ Secure network protocols, quantum neural networks (QNN) ๐Ÿ”’
  • IoT & Cloud Computing โ€“ System design for connected environments, mobile edge computing โ˜๏ธ
  • Digital Twin & 6G+ Networks โ€“ AI-driven tactile internet, smart infrastructure, and futuristic networking ๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ“ก
    His work integrates cutting-edge AI techniques, optimization frameworks, and network simulations to solve real-world challenges.

Awards & Honors ๐Ÿ…๐ŸŽ–๏ธ

  • Professional Development Fund โ€“ Iowa State University ($10,000) ๐Ÿ’ฐ
  • Presidential Fellowship โ€“ Utah State University ($90,000) ๐Ÿ†
  • Best Paper Award โ€“ IEEE International Conference on Informatics, Electronics, and Vision (2016) ๐Ÿฅ‡
  • Graduate & Professional Student Senate Research Award โ€“ ISU ($700) ๐Ÿ“œ
  • ECpE Department Support Grant โ€“ ISU ($600) ๐ŸŽ“
  • Professional Advancement Grant (PAG) โ€“ ISU ($400) ๐ŸŽ–๏ธ
  • Military Communications Conference Student Travel Grants โ€“ 2021 & 2022 ($1,000) โœˆ๏ธ
  • Graduate & Professional Student Council Grant โ€“ ISU ($750) ๐Ÿ…
  • ECE Department Support Grant โ€“ Utah State University ($1,000) ๐Ÿ†

Publication Top Notes

  1. 6G Wireless Communication Systems: Applications, Requirements, Technologies, Challenges, and Research Directions

    • Authors: Mostafa Zaman Chowdhury, Md. Shahjalal, Shakil Ahmed, Yeong Min Jang
    • Journal: IEEE Open Journal of the Communications Society
    • Year: 2020
    • Citation: Chowdhury, M. Z., Shahjalal, M., Ahmed, S., & Jang, Y. M. (2020). 6G Wireless Communication Systems: Applications, Requirements, Technologies, Challenges, and Research Directions. IEEE Open Journal of the Communications Society, 1, 957โ€“975.
  2. Energy-Efficient UAV-to-User Scheduling to Maximize Throughput in Wireless Networks

    • Authors: Shakil Ahmed, Mostafa Zaman Chowdhury, Yeong Min Jang
    • Journal: IEEE Access
    • Year: 2020
    • Citation: Ahmed, S., Chowdhury, M. Z., & Jang, Y. M. (2020). Energy-Efficient UAV-to-User Scheduling to Maximize Throughput in Wireless Networks. IEEE Access, 8, 21215โ€“21225.
  3. Energy-Efficient UAV Relaying Communications to Serve Ground Nodes

    • Authors: Shakil Ahmed, Mostafa Zaman Chowdhury, Yeong Min Jang
    • Journal: IEEE Communications Letters
    • Year: 2020
    • Citation: Ahmed, S., Chowdhury, M. Z., & Jang, Y. M. (2020). Energy-Efficient UAV Relaying Communications to Serve Ground Nodes. IEEE Communications Letters, 24(4), 849โ€“852.
  4. Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access in a mmWave Based IoT Wireless System with SWIPT

    • Authors: Hao Sun, Qiang Wang, Shakil Ahmed, Rose Hu
    • Conference: IEEE Vehicular Technology Conference (VTC Spring)
    • Year: 2017
    • Citation: Sun, H., Wang, Q., Ahmed, S., & Hu, R. (2017). Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access in a mmWave Based IoT Wireless System with SWIPT. In 2017 IEEE 85th Vehicular Technology Conference (VTC Spring) (pp. 1โ€“5).
  5. A Disaster Response Framework Based on IoT and D2D Communication Under 5G Network Technology

    • Authors: Shakil Ahmed, Md Rashid, Farzana Alam, B. Fakhruddin
    • Conference: 2019 29th International Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (ITNAC)
    • Year: 2019
    • Citation: Ahmed, S., Rashid, M., Alam, F., & Fakhruddin, B. (2019). A Disaster Response Framework Based on IoT and D2D Communication Under 5G Network Technology. In 2019 29th International Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (ITNAC) (pp. 20โ€“25).

 

Renwei Liu | Engineering | Excellence in Innovation Award

Dr. Renwei Liu | Engineering | Excellence in Innovation Award

Dr Renwei Liu, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, China

Dr. Renwei Liu is a lecturer at Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, China, specializing in polar ships, ship-ice interaction, and marine engineering. His innovative research in peridynamics has made significant contributions to the understanding of ship-ice interactions, with numerous publications and patents. He is actively involved in both academic research and industry consultancy, working on cutting-edge projects related to Arctic operations and ice load modeling.

PROFILE

Google Scholarย  Profile

Educational Details

Dr. Renwei Liu earned his Bachelor’s and Ph.D. degrees in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from Harbin Engineering University (2012-2021). His academic foundation laid the groundwork for his deep expertise in marine engineering, particularly in the field of polar ship design and the application of peridynamics in ship-ice interaction.

Professional Experience

Since 2021, Dr. Liu has been serving as a lecturer at the School of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology. His expertise spans various areas of naval architecture, with a particular focus on ship-ice interaction and polar ship technology. He has also contributed to consultancy and industry projects related to ice load prediction and anti-icing technologies for polar ships.

Research Interests

Dr. Liuโ€™s primary research interests include the application of the peridynamics method in ship and marine structures, with a particular emphasis on polar ships, ice load prediction, and anti-icing technologies for Arctic operations. His work also extends to marine platform design and structural optimization for ice navigation.

Research and Innovations

Dr. Liuโ€™s pioneering work includes introducing the peridynamics method for calculating ship ice loads, which led to the development of a numerical model for ship and ice interaction. This work resulted in the publication of the first paper in the field. His ongoing research projects include studies on the failure modes of sea ice and technologies for ice load modeling and anti-icing for Arctic operations. Notable ongoing projects include research funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Ministry of Science and Technology.

Collaborations

Dr. Liu has co-authored multiple papers with researchers from various institutions, exploring topics like sea ice structure interaction, ice load predictions, and thermomechanical removal of ice from frozen structures. Some of his prominent collaborations include publications in China Ocean Engineering and Ocean Engineering on topics like ice load prediction for ships and the dynamic response of offshore wind turbines under ice impact.

Patents

Dr. Liu holds several patents related to marine engineering, including inventions for ice recognition devices, adjustable towing systems for ice pools, and methods for measuring ice crack sizes using deep learning. His patent portfolio demonstrates his innovative approach to solving complex challenges in marine engineering and ice navigation.

Top Notable Publications

A review for numerical simulation methods of shipโ€“ice interaction
Authors: Y. Xue, R. Liu, Z. Li, D. Han
Published in: Ocean Engineering
Year: 2020
Citations: 84
DOI: 10.1016/j.oceaneng.2020.107853

Simulation of ship navigation in ice rubble based on peridynamics
Authors: R. W. Liu, Y. Z. Xue, X. K. Lu, W. X. Cheng
Published in: Ocean Engineering
Year: 2018
Citations: 84
DOI: 10.1016/j.oceaneng.2017.11.055

Experimental and numerical investigation on self-propulsion performance of polar merchant ship in brash ice channel
Authors: C. Xie, L. Zhou, S. Ding, R. Liu, S. Zheng
Published in: Ocean Engineering
Year: 2023
Citations: 58
DOI: 10.1016/j.oceaneng.2022.113424

Modeling and simulation of iceโ€“water interactions by coupling peridynamics with updated Lagrangian particle hydrodynamics
Authors: R. Liu, J. Yan, S. Li
Published in: Computational Particle Mechanics
Year: 2020
Citations: 49
DOI: 10.1007/s40571-020-00267-2

Peridynamic modeling and simulation of coupled thermomechanical removal of ice from frozen structures
Authors: Y. Song, R. Liu, S. Li, Z. Kang, F. Zhang
Published in: Meccanica
Year: 2020
Citations: 26
DOI: 10.1007/s11012-020-01068-2

Numerical simulations of the ice load of a ship navigating in level ice using peridynamics
Authors: Y. Xue, R. Liu, Y. Liu, L. Zeng, D. Han
Published in: Computer Modeling in Engineering & Sciences
Year: 2019
Citations: 21
DOI: 10.32604/cmes.2019.12258

Broken ice circumferential crack estimation via image techniques
Authors: J. Cai, S. Ding, Q. Zhang, R. Liu, D. Zeng, L. Zhou
Published in: Ocean Engineering
Year: 2022
Citations: 20
DOI: 10.1016/j.oceaneng.2022.111735

 

Conclusion

Dr. Renwei Liu exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding candidate for the Research for Excellence in Innovation Award. His innovative research on peridynamics, his leadership in polar ship research, and his contributions to industry applications make him a deserving nominee. His work continues to shape the future of marine engineering, polar exploration, and sustainable ice navigation technologies.

 

 

 

Jian-Fei Sun | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jian-Fei Sun | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Jian-Fei Sun, Qingdao University of Technology, China

Dr. Jian-Fei Sun is an Associate Professor at Qingdao University of Technology, specializing in chemical engineering with a focus on green solvent technology and chemical equipment. His research has led to several SCI/EI publications and collaborations with industry, advancing environmentally sustainable solutions in chemical processes.

PROFILE

Orcid Profile

Scopus Profile

Educational Details

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jian-Fei Sun completed his Bachelorโ€™s degree at Shandong Normal University in 2016, followed by a Masterโ€™s degree from Inner Mongolia University of Technology in 2019. He earned his Ph.D. from Dalian University of Technology in 2023, showcasing a solid academic progression in engineering and chemical sciences. As of September 2024, Dr. Sun is a post-doctoral researcher and visiting scholar in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Qingdao University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sun is an Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, where he has developed expertise in gas adsorption, green solvents, and chemical process equipment. His collaborations extend to the Chinese Chemical Society and the China Occupational Safety and Health Association, where he is an active member.

Research Interest

Thermodynamics and Applications of Green Solvents: Involving supercritical and CO2-expanded liquids, critical for eco-friendly chemical processes.

Nanomaterial Synthesis and Catalysis: Focused on catalytic conversion and pretreatment of biomass.

Chemical Engineering Equipment Design: Including innovations in vaporization, heat exchange, and coating processes.

Research Innovations

Dr. Sunโ€™s research is pioneering in green solvent technology, encompassing supercritical fluids, CO2-expanded liquids, and ionic liquids. His work emphasizes the synthesis of nanomaterials, catalytic conversion of lignocellulosic biomass, and advanced chemical engineering equipment design. Notable projects include submerged combustion vaporizers, heat exchangers, jet cavitation cleaning, and supercritical cleaning technologies.

Top Notable Publications

Chen, X., Sun, J., Yu, K., Wu, J., & Yin, J. (2024). Design of novel bracket structure for falling film devolatilizer and numerical simulation of its film-forming property. Chemical Engineering Journal, 499, 156317.

Citations: 0

Sun, J., Yu, K., Zhou, D., Sun, H., & Wu, J. (2024). Continuous process for CO2 cycloaddition reaction in a fixed bed reactor: Kinetic model of reaction transport. Chemical Engineering Science, 283, 119415.

Citations: 2

Zhou, D., Sun, J., Xue, M., Xu, Q., & Yin, J. (2024). Imidazole based ionic liquid grafted graphene for enhancing the new green conversion process of carbon dioxide. Journal of Cleaner Production, 434, 140083.

Citations: 5

Sun, H., Qi, J., Sun, J., Wu, J., & Yin, J. (2024). Solubility of iron(III) and nickel(II) acetylacetonates in supercritical carbon dioxide. Chinese Journal of Chemical Engineering, 65, 29โ€“34.

Citations: 0

Chen, X., Sun, J., Wu, J., Zhang, Y., & Yin, J. (2023). Simulation study on mass transfer characteristics and disk structure optimization of a rotating disk reactor with high viscosity region. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 140(48), e54717.

Citations: 1

Chen, X., Wu, J., Sun, J., Yu, K., & Yin, J. (2023). Numerical investigation of film-forming characteristics and mass transfer enhancement in horizontal polycondensation kettle. Chinese Journal of Chemical Engineering, 63, 31โ€“42.

Citations: 0

Li, X., Sun, J., Xue, M., Wu, J., & Yin, J. (2023). The imidazole ionic liquid was chemically grafted on SBA-15 to continuously catalyze carbon dioxide to prepare propylene carbonate. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 11(5), 110438.

Citations: 9

Sun, J.-F., Chen, X.-P., Li, X.-T., Li, L., & Yin, J.-Z. (2023). Theoretical study of supported ionic liquid membrane reaction and transport for CO2 cycloaddition reaction. Chemical Engineering Journal, 470, 144299.

Citations: 2

Yu, K., Liu, J., Sun, J., Shen, Z., & Yin, J. (2023). Study of polyester degradation by sub/supercritical ethanol and enhancement of carbon dioxide. Journal of Supercritical Fluids, 194, 105837.

Citations: 7

Conclusion

Dr. Sun has published numerous SCI and EI-indexed papers and collaborated with chemical enterprises to secure research funding. His contributions emphasize his dedication to both academic excellence and real-world applications, reinforcing his suitability for the Best Researcher Award through innovation and impactful research in sustainable chemical processes.

 

 

 

Sowon Choi | Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Sowon Choi | Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Sowonย  Choi, Pohang University of Science and Technology, South Korea

Dr. sowon choi is a research professor at the Graduate Institute of Ferrous and Eco Materials Technology (GIFT) at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), South Korea. Her research integrates data-driven project management methodologies through artificial intelligence (AI) and unstructured text data analysis, particularly within big data environments. Dr. choiโ€™s work is grounded in her comprehensive experience in both onshore and offshore EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) projects, with specialized expertise in contract negotiation and project management. Her academic focus is complemented by a solid background in strategic management, planning, and marketing.

PROFILE

Orcid Profile

Educational Details

Ph.D. in Plant System Engineering (PSE), POSTECH, 2022

Master of Science in Plant System Engineering (PSE), POSTECH, 2015

Bachelor of Commerce, Double Major in Marketing & International Business, University of Auckland, 2005

Professional Experience

Dr. choi has a diverse professional background, which spans across various industries and roles. She currently serves as a research professor and postdoctoral research fellow at POSTECH, a position she has held since 2022. Before this, Dr. choi held leadership roles in prominent South Korean companies. From 2012 to 2016, she was Principal Manager at Taekyung Heavy Industries Co., Ltd., where she played a key role in managing large-scale projects. Additionally, she has experience as a Principal Consultant with Korea PMI Consulting Group and as a Principal Researcher with Korea Marketing and Retailing Consulting. Early in her career, Dr. choi worked as an Assistant Manager at Paris Croissant Co., Ltd.

Research Interest

 

AI-driven project management and analysis of unstructured text data

Big data applications in EPC project management

Strategic and marketing planning within the engineering and technology sectors

Top Notable Publications

Auto-Routing Systems (ARSs) with 3D Piping for Sustainable Plant Projects Based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digitalization of 2D Drawings and Specifications

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Sustainability

Date: 2024-03-27

DOI: 10.3390/su16072770

Development of Cycloid-Shaped Roll Charging Chute for Sintering Process for Energy Decarbonization and Productivity Improvement in Steel Plants

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Energies

Date: 2024-03-23

DOI: 10.3390/en17071536

Prediction Modeling of Flue Gas Control for Combustion Efficiency Optimization for Steel Mill Power Plant Boilers Based on Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR)

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Energies

Date: 2023-09-30

DOI: 10.3390/en16196907

A Question-Answering Model Based on Knowledge Graphs for the General Provisions of Equipment Purchase Orders for Steel Plants Maintenance

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Electronics

Date: 2023-06-01

DOI: 10.3390/electronics12112504

Modeling of Predictive Maintenance Systems for Laser-Welders in Continuous Galvanizing Lines Based on Machine Learning with Welder Control Data

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Sustainability

Date: 2023-05-07

DOI: 10.3390/su15097676

A Prediction Model for Spot LNG Prices Based on Machine Learning Algorithms to Reduce Fluctuation Risks in Purchasing Prices

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Energies

Date: 2023-05

DOI: 10.3390/en16114271

Machine Learning-Based Tap Temperature Prediction and Control for Optimized Power Consumption in Stainless Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF) of Steel Plants

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Sustainability

Date: 2023-04-08

DOI: 10.3390/su15086393

Knowledge Retrieval Model Based on a Graph Database for Semantic Search in Equipment Purchase Order Specifications for Steel Plants

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Sustainability

Date: 2023-04-06

DOI: 10.3390/su15076319

An AI-Based Automatic Risks Detection Solution for Plant Ownerโ€™s Technical Requirements in Equipment Purchase Order

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Sustainability

Date: 2022-08-12

DOI: 10.3390/su141610010

Contractorโ€™s Risk Analysis of Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) Contracts Using Ontological Semantic Model and Bi-Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) Technology

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Sustainability

Date: 2022-06-06

DOI: 10.3390/su14116938

The Engineering Machine-Learning Automation Platform (EMAP): A Big-Data-Driven AI Tool for Contractorsโ€™ Sustainable Management Solutions for Plant Projects

Authors: To be determined

Journal: Sustainability

Date: 2021-09

DOI: 10.3390/su131810384

AI and Text-Mining Applications for Analyzing Contractorโ€™s Risk in Invitation to Bid (ITB) and Contracts for Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) Projects

Authors: So Won Choi (and additional authors as listed in the article)

Journal: Energies

Date: 2021-07-30

DOI: 10.3390/en14154632

Conclusion

Dr. Sowon Choiโ€™s extensive background in data analysis, project management, and strategic planning, combined with her advanced research in AI and EPC projects, makes her an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her innovative work aligns closely with the award criteria, addressing sustainability, efficiency, and technological advancement in project management. Given her diverse experience and strong academic foundation, she demonstrates a well-rounded expertise that positions her as a compelling candidate for this honor.

 

 

 

Yalini Devi Neelan | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yalini Devi Neelan | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Google Scholar Profile

Educational Details

Dr. Yalini Devi Neelan completed her Ph.D. in Energy Harvesting Applications at Anna University, India, from 2016 to 2021. Her doctoral research focused on innovative methods for harnessing energy through advanced materials and nanotechnology. Prior to her Ph.D., she earned an M.Tech. in Nanoscience and Technology from Anna University, where she achieved an impressive GPA of 8.24/10 from 2014 to 2016. Dr. Neelan’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, also from Anna University, where she graduated in 2014 with a GPA of 6.41/10. This solid educational background has equipped her with a strong foundation in both engineering principles and nanomaterials, driving her passion for research in energy solutions.

Research Experience

Dr. Yalini Devi Neelan is currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Milano, Italy, in the Thermoelectricโ€™s Laboratory, where she focuses on the preparation and characterization of nanostructured silicon for thermoelectric applications. Her key responsibilities include preparing nanostructured materials, examining their physicochemical characteristics, and studying their Seebeck coefficient, electrical, and thermal conductivity to calculate the figure of merit (ZT). Prior to this, she was a Postdoctoral Researcher at Chungnam National University, South Korea, where she worked on nanostructured oxide-based materials for antibiotic degradation and battery applications, analyzing their photodegradation and electrochemical properties. Dr. Neelan also served as a Research Associate at Anna University, India, where she focused on energy harvesting and storage applications, preparing oxide-based nanomaterials and managing communications with funding agencies. During her Ph.D. at Anna University, she investigated nanostructured strontium titanate-based oxide thermoelectric materials for energy harvesting from waste heat. Additionally, she collaborated with Shimomura Laboratory at Shizuoka University, Japan, to enhance the thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured SrTiO3 through Gd and Nb co-substitution. Earlier in her academic journey, Dr. Neelan was a project student at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, where she developed graphene oxide-based strain sensors for motion monitoring. Her diverse research experiences reflect her strong expertise in nanomaterials and energy applications.

Research Focus

Energy harvesting applications, particularly in thermoelectrics, focus on converting waste heat into usable electrical energy, thus promoting sustainable energy solutions. The synthesis of nanomaterials plays a crucial role in this field, as nanostructured materials exhibit enhanced thermoelectric properties due to their unique physical and chemical characteristics. These materials are engineered to optimize energy conversion efficiencies, allowing for effective harvesting from various heat sources. Additionally, advancements in energy storage applications complement energy harvesting by ensuring that the harvested energy can be effectively stored and utilized when needed. By integrating innovative synthesis techniques and exploring novel nanomaterials, researchers aim to improve the performance and efficiency of thermoelectric devices, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.

Top Notable Publications

Enhancing effects of Te substitution on the thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured SnSeโ‚โ‚‹โ‚“Teโ‚“
Authors: D. Sidharth, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, R. Rajkumar, N.Y. Devi, P. Rajasekaran, et al.
Journal: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics
Year: 2019
Citations: 32

Effect of Gd and Nb co-substitution on enhancing the thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured SrTiOโ‚ƒ
Authors: N.Y. Devi, K. Vijayakumar, P. Rajasekaran, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, et al.
Journal: Ceramics International
Year: 2021
Citations: 26

Enhanced thermoelectric performance of band structure engineered GeSeโ‚โ‚‹โ‚“Teโ‚“ alloys
Authors: D. Sidharth, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, R. Akilan, A. Srivastava, B. Srinivasan, et al.
Journal: Sustainable Energy & Fuels
Year: 2021
Citations: 25

Enhancement of thermoelectric power factor of hydrothermally synthesised SrTiOโ‚ƒ nanostructures
Authors: N.Y. Devi, P. Rajasekaran, K. Vijayakumar, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, et al.
Journal: Materials Research Express
Year: 2020
Citations: 15

Biogenic synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles: evaluation of their larvicidal, antibacterial, and cytotoxic activities
Authors: S. Mahalingam, P.K. Govindaraji, V.G. Solomon, H. Kesavan, Y.D. Neelan, et al.
Journal: ACS Omega
Year: 2023
Citations: 11

Effect of Bismuth substitution on the enhancement of thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured Biโ‚“Coโ‚ƒโ‚‹โ‚“Oโ‚„
Authors: A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, D. Sidharth, N.Y. Devi, R. Rajkumar, P. Rajasekaran, et al.
Journal: Ceramics International
Year: 2019
Citations: 11

Effective Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalytic Degradation of Harmful Antibiotics Using Reduced Graphene Oxide-Zinc Sulfide-Copper Sulfide Nanocomposites as a Catalyst
Authors: J.K. Shanmugam Mahalingam, Yalini Devi Neelan, Senthil Bakthavatchalam, et al.
Journal: ACS Omega
Year: 2023
Citations: 10

Enhancing the thermoelectric power factor of nanostructured ZnCoโ‚‚Oโ‚„ by Bi substitution
Authors: A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, D. Sidharth, R. Rajkumar, N.Y. Devi, K. Maeda, et al.
Journal: RSC Advances
Year: 2020
Citations: 7

High thermoelectric power factor of Ag and Nb co-substituted SrTiOโ‚ƒ perovskite nanostructures
Authors: N.Y. Devi, A.S.A. Nedunchezhian, D. Sidharth, P. Rajasekaran, et al.
Journal: Materials Chemistry and Physics
Year: 2023
Citations: 3