Volodymyr Hovorukha | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Volodymyr Hovorukha | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

M.S. Poliakov Institute of Geotechnical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine | Ukraine

Mr. Volodymyr Hovorukha is a prominent Ukrainian scientist whose pioneering contributions have shaped the fields of railway engineering, transport mechanics, and structural dynamics. As a Senior Researcher at the M.S. Poliakov Institute of Geotechnical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, he has made outstanding advancements in understanding the interaction between rail tracks and moving transport systems, the mechanics of deformation, and the reliability of rail infrastructure. His scientific achievements encompass the development of over ten mathematical models addressing dynamic rail–vehicle interaction, wear processes, and derailment safety, particularly under the influence of friction modifiers. He has authored more than 240 scientific papers, including publications indexed in international databases such as Scopus, and four monographs registered with ISBN. Mr. Volodymyr Hovorukha holds 32 patents, three of which have been officially recognized as international discoveries in railway transport. His innovative research has led to the creation of modernized track structures, high-speed rail fastening systems, and reinforced concrete components for both surface and underground transport systems. Under his scientific leadership, over 200 projects have been successfully developed and implemented, significantly contributing to the modernization of Ukraine’s rail infrastructure. His findings on the deformation mechanics of track elements and materials have become the foundation for optimizing the durability and safety of rail systems. An active member of ASME International and the International Academy of Scientific Discoveries and Inventions, Mr. Volodymyr Hovorukha’s research continues to influence railway engineering innovation and infrastructure development globally.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  1. Hovorukha, V., Hovorukha, A., Sobko, T., & Semyditna, L. (2025). Reliability improvement of track infrastructure in open-pit rail transport. Geo-Technical Mechanics, (173), 38–48. https://doi.org/10.15407/geotm2025.173.038

  2. Hovorukha, V. V., & Hovorukha, A. V. (2023). Improvement of the service life of mining and industrial equipment by using friction modifiers. Naukovyi Visnyk Natsionalnoho Hirnychoho Universytetu, (4), 74–82. https://doi.org/10.33271/nvngu/2023-4/074

  3. Hovorukha, V., Hovorukha, A., & Makarov, Y. (2022). Research on the dynamic processes of vehicles and an arbitrary configuration rail track, influencing the side wear of the rail head and wheel flange contact surfaces at different values of friction coefficient between them. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 970(1), 012029. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/970/1/012029

  4. Hovorukha, V., Hovorukha, A., Sobko, T., & Semyditna, L. (2022). Method for studying spatial vibrations of a vehicle during its movement along the rail track on separate supports with elastic-dissipative and inertial properties. Geo-Technical Mechanics, (167), 52–60.

  5. Hovorukha, V., Hovorukha, A., Makarov, Y., Sobko, T., & Semyditna, L. (2023, November 14–16). Investigation of residual deformations in joint zones of track sections under curved track operation conditions. In Proceedings of the XXI International Conference of Young Scientists: Geotechnical Problems of Mineral Deposit Development (pp. 145–150). Dnipro, Ukraine.

Danladi Abdu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Danladi Abdu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Federal University of Transportation | Nigeria

Mr. Danladi Abdu is a distinguished civil engineering researcher whose work integrates artificial intelligence, data science, and structural engineering to advance the safety and performance of transportation infrastructures. His research focuses on the intelligent assessment and predictive modeling of structural behavior in railway and bridge systems using machine learning algorithms. Through his influential publications in reputable journals such as Structures and the Journal of Railway Science and Technology, Mr. Danladi Abdu has contributed significantly to the development of AI-based approaches for monitoring bridge pier settlements and predicting fire-induced steel beam deformations. His scholarly work bridges the gap between traditional structural analysis and modern computational intelligence, offering innovative methodologies for structural health monitoring and predictive maintenance. Mr. Danladi Abdu’s research interests encompass smart infrastructure systems, railway bridge engineering, machine learning applications in civil engineering, and sustainable design innovations. Recognized for his academic excellence and innovative mindset, he has received multiple awards, including the Class of 2023 Outstanding International Graduate Student Award from Central South University and the Aier Cup Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition Award. His contributions highlight a strong commitment to applying advanced technologies for solving complex engineering challenges, fostering safer, more efficient, and sustainable infrastructure systems. With an expanding research portfolio and a growing impact in structural and transportation engineering, Mr. Danladi Abdu continues to drive forward-thinking solutions that merge artificial intelligence with civil engineering principles to enhance infrastructure reliability and sustainability in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

  • Abdu, D. M., Shedamang, S., Jimoh, J., & Idris, A. (2025). Prediction of fire-induced steel beam deformation using machine learning algorithms. Journal of Railway Science and Technology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jrst.2025.10.001

  • Abdu, D. M., Guo, W., & Wang, Y. (2023). Assessment of railway bridge pier settlement based on train acceleration response using machine learning algorithms. Structures. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.istruc.2023.03.167

Bojiang Yin | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Bojiang Yin | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

School of Petrochemical Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology | China

Mr. Bojiang Yin’s research primarily focuses on the fundamental and applied aspects of special valve design and process systems, with an emphasis on structural parameter optimization, reliability engineering, and multi-physics coupling dynamics. His work addresses critical challenges in extreme operating environments, such as ultra-low temperature liquid hydrogen systems, by developing innovative sealing structures and evaluating their performance using advanced computational approaches. He has employed techniques including thermo-mechanical coupling, sensitivity analysis, high-precision RBF surrogate modeling, and NSGA-II optimization to achieve reliable bidirectional sealing under cryogenic conditions. Bojiang has published in high-impact journals like Scientific Reports, contributing to the scientific understanding of valve mechanics and optimization methodologies. He has collaborated with the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Double First-Class Key Program of Gansu Province, and other regional technology programs, bridging academic research with practical industry applications. His contributions extend to consultancy projects, product development, and providing references for the design of advanced butterfly valves, positioning him as an emerging researcher in valve innovation and cryogenic system reliability.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Li, S., Yin, B., Wei, C., Li, W., & Yang, L. (2025). Structural analysis and multi-objective optimization of sealing structure for cryogenic liquid hydrogen triple-offset butterfly valve. Scientific Reports, 15, Article 20095. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-20095-6

Nadiia Kopiika | Engineering | Best Paper Award

Dr. Nadiia Kopiika | Engineering | Best Paper Award

University College London | United Kingdom

Dr. Nadiia Kopiika is a distinguished civil and structural engineering researcher whose work unites innovation, sustainability, and resilience in the reconstruction of critical infrastructure. She is affiliated with University College London, London, United Kingdom, and serves as a BA/CARA Research Fellow at the University of Birmingham (UK) and Teaching Assistant at Lviv Polytechnic National University (Ukraine). Dr. Nadiia Kopiika has made exceptional contributions to developing advanced methodologies for damage assessment, probabilistic modelling, and structural rehabilitation of reinforced concrete structures. Her publication, “Probabilistic Assessment of RC Beams with Corroded Thermally Strengthened Reinforcement” (Structures, 2025), presents a comprehensive probabilistic framework for evaluating the reliability and residual capacity of corroded reinforcement systems, providing crucial insights for sustainable and data-driven restoration. According to Scopus, she has authored 34 indexed publications, accumulated 416 citations across 219 citing documents, and holds an h-index of 15, reflecting her growing impact in the global engineering community. Her work seamlessly combines analytical precision with practical applications in infrastructure resilience and recovery. Dr. Kopiika is also actively engaged in collaborative initiatives such as bridgeUkraine.org and MetaInfrastructure.org, advancing digital diagnostics, AI integration, and circular design for post-disaster reconstruction. Her achievements have been recognised through prestigious honours, including the Award of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for Young Scientists (2024) and the BA/CARA Research Fellowship (2023–2026). Through her interdisciplinary research and commitment to sustainable engineering, Dr. Nadiia Kopiika continues to advance innovative frameworks for resilient, future-ready infrastructure systems worldwide.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

  • Blikharskyy, Y., Kopiika, N., Khmil, R., Selejdak, J., & Blikharskyy, Z. (2022). Review of development and application of digital image correlation method for study of stress–strain state of RC structures. Applied Sciences, 12(19), 10157. [Cited by 56]
    https://doi.org/10.3390/app121910157

  • Kopiika, N., Karavias, A., Krassakis, P., Ye, Z., Ninic, J., Shakhovska, N., … (2025). Rapid post-disaster infrastructure damage characterisation using remote sensing and deep learning technologies: A tiered approach. Automation in Construction, 170, 105955. [Cited by 27]
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2025.105955

  • Blikharskyy, Y., Vashkevych, R., Kopiika, N., Bobalo, T., & Blikharskyy, Z. (2021). Calculation residual strength of reinforced concrete beams with damages, which occurred during loading. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 1021(1), 012012. [Cited by 32]
    https://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899X/1021/1/012012

  • Blikharskyy, Y., Selejdak, J., & Kopiika, N. (2021). Corrosion fatigue damages of rebars under loading in time. Materials, 14(12), 3416. [Cited by 31]
    https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14123416

  • Blikharskyy, Y., Selejdak, J., Kopiika, N., & Vashkevych, R. (2021). Study of concrete under combined action of aggressive environment and long-term loading. Materials, 14(21), 6612. [Cited by 30]
    https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14216612

Weimin Huang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Weimin Huang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Shandong University of Science and Technology | China

Dr. Weimin Huang, Academic Associate Professor at the College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, is a leading expert in mechanical manufacturing and automation, with a focus on high-speed cutting technology, friction and fatigue wear mechanisms, and advanced agricultural machinery design. He earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Manufacturing and Automation from Shandong University, establishing a strong foundation for his research and academic contributions. Dr. Weimin Huang has successfully led over 10 major research projects, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province, and has directed more than 20 industry-sponsored consultancy projects, effectively translating scientific insights into practical engineering solutions. His pioneering work on surface texture preparation via ball-end milling has significantly enhanced wear resistance and tribological performance of mechanical components, while his studies on sliding fatigue wear mechanisms have improved the durability and efficiency of industrial and agricultural equipment. He has published 37 Scopus-indexed journal articles, with 311 citations and an H-index of 11. Through his sustained research, innovation, and applied engineering contributions, Dr. Weimin Huang has established himself as a prominent scholar and a driving force in advancing mechanical manufacturing technologies.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Wang, G., Li, H., Wang, Z., & Jiang, D. (2025, May). Research on surface integrity and corrosion performance in high-speed ball-end milling of NiTi shape memory alloys.

2. Yang, J., Gong, C., Li, A., & Wang, P. (2025, March). Research on NiTi shape memory alloy electrolyte based on optimization of corrosion performance.

3. Huang, W., Huang, Y., Li, A., & Wang, G. (2024, November). Generation mechanism and anti-friction effect evaluation of continuous micro-groove texture machined by ball-end milling process.

4. Gao, L., Zhou, X., Huang, W., & Xia, H. (2024, February). Generation method and antifriction performance evaluation of discrete micro-pit surface texture based on high speed ball-end milling process.

5. Wang, G., Gong, C., Yang, J., & Wang, P. (2024, February). Electrochemical reaction mechanism of milled surface of NiTi shape memory alloy.

6. Gao, L., Wang, J., Huo, H., & Wang, Z. (2024, February). Residual height of surface topography in milling nickel-titanium shape memory alloy using a small-diameter cutter.

Tian Zhang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tian Zhang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology | China

Dr. Zhang Tian, a Master’s student in Structural Engineering at Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, has built an impressive academic and research profile distinguished by consistent excellence, leadership, and early scholarly impact. He completed his undergraduate studies at Huanghuai University, where he was recognized as a “Three Good Student” for four consecutive years, awarded multiple academic scholarships, and graduated as an Outstanding Graduate. His achievements also include winning the third prize in the Challenge Cup of the School of Civil Engineering and being honored as an Outstanding Communist Youth League Member, distinctions that reflect his ability to combine academic rigor with innovation and service. At the graduate level, he has continued to excel, receiving an academic scholarship in 2022–2023 while advancing research in seismic-resistant structures, sustainable construction materials, and structural design optimization, areas vital to the development of safe and environmentally responsible infrastructure. Despite being in the early stage of his research career, Dr. Zhang Tian has already made notable scholarly contributions, with 6 publications indexed in Scopus, accumulating 69 citations from 68 documents, and achieving an h-index of 5. These metrics demonstrate that his work is not only visible but also valued within the global academic community. Combining strong academic performance, proven research productivity, and a clear vision for advancing structural engineering, Dr. Zhang Tian exemplifies the qualities of an emerging scholar whose contributions are poised to strengthen the safety, resilience, and sustainability of modern construction.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Xu, Y., Xu, Z.-D., Hu, H., Guo, Y.-Q., Huang, X.-H., Zhang, Z.-W., Zhang, T., & Xu, C. (2025). Experiment, simulation, and theoretical investigation of a new type of interlayer connections enhanced viscoelastic damper. International Journal of Structural Stability and Dynamics, 25(5), Article 2550045.

Morteza Esmaeili | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Morteza Esmaeili | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Iran University of Science and Technology | Iran

Dr. Morteza Esmaeili is a renowned academic, researcher, and innovator in the field of railway engineering. As a Professor and Director of the Department of Railway Track and Structures at the Iran University of Science and Technology, he has dedicated his career to advancing knowledge in railway geotechnics, dynamic behavior of tracks, and structural vibration analysis. His extensive expertise spans across ballasted and ballastless track systems, seismic design of underground structures, and advanced construction materials for railways. Through a blend of scientific rigor and practical application, Dr. Morteza Esmaeili has made significant contributions to both the academic community and the railway industry, earning international recognition as a leading authority in his discipline.

Professional Profile

Scopus

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ORCID

Education

Dr. Morteza Esmaeili began his academic journey with a strong foundation in civil engineering at the Iran University of Science and Technology, where he completed his undergraduate studies. His passion for geotechnics and structural mechanics led him to pursue advanced degrees at the University of Tehran, where he obtained both his Master’s and Doctoral qualifications in geotechnical engineering. This educational background provided him with the analytical and technical skills that have underpinned his research into soil-structure interaction, seismic responses, and railway infrastructure development. His academic path reflects a continuous commitment to deepening his expertise and applying it to the challenges of modern transportation systems.

Experience

Dr. Morteza Esmaeili has an extensive record of academic leadership and professional service. As a faculty member, he has taught a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including statics, structural analysis, reinforced and concrete structures, railway substructure engineering, soil mechanics, and advanced railway substructure systems. He has also guided doctoral-level research on wave propagation theory and finite element modeling. His experience extends to authorship of influential textbooks, development of patents for railway engineering innovations, and supervision of high-impact research projects. Beyond teaching, Prof. Esmaeili has served as reviewer and editorial board member for international journals, contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge and ensuring the quality of research published in leading outlets. His practical contributions include the design of innovative sleepers, ballast systems, and diagnostic devices for railway infrastructure, bridging academic theory with industrial application.

Research Interest

Dr. Morteza Esmaeili’s research interests are focused on the dynamic and vibrational behavior of railway tracks, the geotechnics of ballasted and ballastless systems, and the structural performance of underground constructions. He has worked extensively on modeling train-induced vibrations, analyzing seismic responses of railway structures, and proposing solutions to stabilize embankments and track foundations. His studies also cover advanced applications of asphalt and polymer materials in track design, development of high-performance sleepers, and innovative systems for diagnosing substructure failures. By integrating numerical modeling, experimental investigation, and field application, his research has continuously addressed real-world challenges in railway safety, durability, and efficiency, making a lasting impact on global railway engineering practices.

Awards

Dr. Morteza Esmaeili has been recognized nationally and internationally for his outstanding contributions to railway engineering and geotechnical research. His leadership in developing diagnostic tools, innovative track structures, and advanced construction methodologies highlights his role as a pioneer in bridging academic discovery with industrial application. His commitment to research excellence, teaching innovation, and international collaboration makes him a worthy recipient of the Best Researcher Award, reflecting not only his scholarly distinction but also the practical impact of his work on transportation systems and civil infrastructure.

Publications

Dr. Morteza Esmaeili has authored numerous high-impact journal papers, widely cited in the fields of railway dynamics, geotechnical engineering, and structural vibration analysis. Selected contributions include:

Title: Laboratory study on the effect of polypropylene fiber on durability, and physical and mechanical characteristic of concrete for application in sleepers
Published on: 2013
Citation: 347

Title: Experimental assessment of cyclic behavior of sand-fouled ballast mixed with tire derived aggregates
Published on: 2017
Citation: 127

Title: A numerical investigation on the lateral resistance of frictional sleepers in ballasted railway tracks
Published on: 2016
Citation: 116

Title: Influence of tire-derived aggregates on the properties of railway ballast material
Published on: 2017
Citation: 106

Title: Laboratory and field investigation of the effect of geogrid-reinforced ballast on railway track lateral resistance
Published on: 2017
Citation: 102

Title: Effect of combined carbonation and chloride ion ingress by an accelerated test method on microscopic and mechanical properties of concrete
Published on: 2014
Citation: 102

Title: Experimental comparison of the lateral resistance of tracks with steel slag ballast and limestone ballast materials
Published on: 2017
Citation: 100

Title: Experimental and numerical study of micropiles to reinforce high railway embankments
Published on: 2013
Citation: 92

Conclusion

Dr. Morteza Esmaeili stands as an exemplary researcher whose contributions to railway engineering and geotechnical science are both innovative and impactful. His extensive body of work reflects a balance of academic rigor, practical innovation, and international engagement. By addressing critical issues such as railway vibration, seismic safety, embankment stabilization, and advanced sleeper technologies, he has significantly advanced the field of transportation infrastructure. His leadership as a professor, author, patent-holder, and editor reinforces his position as a global authority in railway engineering. Dr. Morteza Esmaeili’s achievements make him a highly deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award, honoring his dedication to advancing science and improving railway systems worldwide.

Habtamu Teshome | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Habtamu Teshome | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Bule Hora University | Ethiopia

Mr. Habtamu Teshome is an Ethiopian civil engineer, researcher, and educator with extensive experience in construction project management and structural engineering. He has worked as a lecturer at Bule Hora University, where he has been actively involved in teaching, research supervision, and administrative responsibilities. His academic journey has taken him across international institutions, broadening his expertise and deepening his contributions to civil and structural engineering. Currently, he is a doctoral researcher at Andhra University in India, pursuing advanced studies in structural engineering while continuing his mission to advance both theory and practice in construction and design.

Professional Profile

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Education

Mr. Habtamu Teshome’s educational background demonstrates a continuous pursuit of excellence. He first completed studies in Construction Technology and Management at Wollega University, where he gained a strong foundation in civil engineering principles. To advance his professional knowledge, he earned a postgraduate degree in Construction Project Management from Parul University, India, where he deepened his expertise in planning, resource management, and sustainable construction practices. His academic path has now led him to doctoral research at Andhra University, where he specializes in structural engineering, focusing on innovative solutions for resilient and sustainable infrastructure.

Experience

With more than a decade of teaching and research experience, Habtamu Teshome has made significant contributions to higher education and civil engineering research. As a lecturer at Bule Hora University, he has taught a wide range of courses, guided research projects, and supervised students in both theoretical and practical aspects of civil engineering. Beyond classroom teaching, he has taken on administrative responsibilities, where he worked to improve academic programs, foster collaboration among faculty, and support the professional development of students. His international exposure and involvement in collaborative projects have further shaped his ability to apply research outcomes to real-world engineering challenges.

Research Interests

Habtamu Teshome research interests span structural engineering, construction project management, sustainable building systems, and innovative design technologies. His work emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between academic research and practical implementation, especially in the context of developing nations where infrastructure challenges are pressing. He is particularly passionate about developing resilient structural systems, improving construction quality and safety, and promoting sustainable engineering practices that balance cost-effectiveness with environmental responsibility.

Awards

Mr. Habtamu Teshome has been recognized with strong academic recommendations and institutional acknowledgments for his contributions to teaching, research, and student development. His work has earned praise from both Ethiopian and Indian academic institutions for his excellence in civil engineering education, mentorship, and technical expertise. These recognitions reflect his commitment to advancing engineering knowledge while ensuring that students gain meaningful academic and professional experiences.

Publications

Mr. Habtamu Teshome has published research contributions in reputable journals and conference proceedings in the fields of structural and construction engineering. Some of his notable publications include:

1. Title: Comparing the Effectiveness of Conventional and Bacterial-derived Nanomaterials in Concrete for Sustainable Buildings
Journal: Iranian Journal of Science and Technology, Transactions of Civil Engineering
Published on: 2025

2. Title: In Bio‐Based Self‐Healing Concrete: Effect of Nutrient Components of the Media on Mechanical Properties and Environmentally Friendly Concrete Development
Journal: Advances in Civil Engineering
Published on: 2025

3. Title: Investigation on Time Controlling Practices in Construction Projects at Bule Hora, Ethiopia: A Case Study
Journal: AIP Conference Proceedings
Published on: 2023

4. Title: Determining Factors Affecting Critical Success of Construction Project: Review
Journal: International Journal of Advanced and Innovative Research
Published on: 2017

5. Title: Investigation of Causative Factors and Effects of Delay of Projects in Building Construction in Ethiopia (Case Study in Bule Hora Town)
Journal: Futuristic Trends for Sustainable Ecosystem (FTSE 2021) Proceedings, Ahmedabad, India
Published on: 2021

Conclusion

Mr. Habtamu Teshome Teshome is a distinguished researcher and academic whose career reflects a consistent dedication to excellence in civil engineering. With a solid foundation in education, a decade of teaching and research experience, strong research interests in structural design and sustainable construction, and contributions through publications, he has demonstrated both leadership and innovation. His candidacy for the Best Researcher Award highlights his commitment to advancing civil engineering knowledge, mentoring the next generation of engineers, and contributing impactful solutions to the construction industry.

Karim Heydari | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Karim Heydari | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Isfahan University of Technology | Iran

Dr. Karim Heydari is a distinguished scientist and academic in the field of textile engineering and polymer science, renowned for his expertise in developing sustainable and high-performance polymer composites. His research has been instrumental in transforming recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into advanced textile fibers with improved mechanical integrity, flame resistance, and processability. Through innovative use of nanotechnology, eco-friendly flame-retardant systems, and molecular chain extenders, Dr. Heydari has contributed significantly to bridging environmental sustainability with industrial-scale manufacturing. His dedication to advancing polymer recycling technologies positions him as a leading figure in sustainable materials research.

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ORCID

Education

Dr. Heydari holds a strong academic background in textile engineering, polymer processing, and materials science, with specialized training in fiber manufacturing technologies, rheological property analysis, and nanocomposite engineering. His educational journey has provided him with a unique interdisciplinary skill set, enabling him to address challenges in polymer degradation, fiber spinning, and additive compatibility with scientifically sound and technologically viable solutions.

Experience

Throughout his career, Dr. Heydari has led and collaborated on multiple high-impact research projects focused on the optimization of recycled polymers for advanced textile applications. His work encompasses the full material development chain from feedstock selection and additive formulation to reactive extrusion, melt spinning, and product testing. He has applied advanced analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and rheological characterization to evaluate and enhance composite performance. In addition to academic publications, Dr. Heydari has actively collaborated with industrial partners to translate laboratory innovations into production-ready materials, particularly for applications demanding both performance and environmental compliance.

Research Interest

Dr. Heydari’s research interests cover a broad range of topics in sustainable material science, including polymer recycling and upcycling, flame-retardant fiber composites, nano clay dispersion technologies, rheology-driven process optimization, and environmentally friendly additive systems. He is particularly passionate about valorizing multiple-recycled PET often considered unsuitable for high-quality applications  by restoring its molecular architecture and enhancing its functional properties. His research is driven by the goal of creating textile fibers that meet rigorous mechanical, thermal, and safety standards without compromising ecological responsibility.

Awards

Dr. Heydari has gained recognition for his pioneering contributions to sustainable polymer technology and textile engineering. His innovative approach to combining zinc phosphinate flame retardants, Cloisite 30B nanoclay, and multifunctional epoxy-based chain extenders has resulted in composites with exceptional flame resistance, thermal stability, and spinnability. These advancements not only contribute to safer and more durable textile products but also support global sustainability initiatives. His ability to merge scientific innovation with industrial applicability makes him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications

Dr. Karim Heydari has contributed impactful research on the rheological, thermal, and mechanical enhancement of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) composites, with a focus on flame retardancy and spinnability.

Title: Enhanced Spinning Properties of Chain‐Extended Flame‐Retarded Multiple‐Recycled PET/Cloisite 30B Nanocomposite
Journal: Journal of Applied Polymer Science
Published on: August 2025

Title: Rheological Probing Molecular Weight Increase in Flame Retarded Doubly Recycled PET in the Presence of Nanoclay and Investigating its Spinnability
Journal: Preprint
Published on: January 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Karim Heydari’s contributions to polymer recycling and textile engineering represent a significant step forward in the creation of sustainable, high-performance materials. His work addresses urgent environmental challenges associated with polymer waste while providing viable solutions for industrial fiber production. By integrating advanced material science with practical manufacturing processes, he continues to influence the fields of textile engineering, polymer technology, and sustainable manufacturing. His research not only pushes the boundaries of scientific understanding but also demonstrates a commitment to creating eco-conscious innovations that can be adopted across global industries.

Muhammad Umair | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Umair | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

National Textile University | Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Umair is a Fulbright Postdoc Researcher at NCSU, USA (2025–2026), an Assistant Professor (on leave) at National Textile University (NTU), Pakistan, and a Professional Engineer (PE). Recognized as a Top 2% Highly Cited Researcher (Elsevier, 2023), he specializes in advanced textiles, composites, and protective materials. With 15+ years of industrial and academic experience, he has supervised 3 PhD, 28 MS, and 35 BS students and secured ₨234M (≈$850K) in research grants.

Professional profile👤

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Strengths for the Awards✨

Dr. Muhammad Umair exemplifies exceptional merit for the Best Researcher Award through his comprehensive portfolio of academic, industrial, and research achievements. As a Fulbright Postdoctoral Researcher at North Carolina State University (2025–2026), his global academic presence is already firmly established. Notably, he was named among the top 2% highly cited researchers in 2023 by Elsevier and Stanford University, a recognition that highlights his impact and influence in the field of textile engineering and composite materials.

He holds a Ph.D. in Textile Engineering with specialization in 3D woven fiber-reinforced polymeric composites and has accumulated 15 years of professional experience, encompassing 4 years in industry and 11 years in academia, including research and administration. His supervision record is commendable, with 3 PhDs, 28 MS, and 35 BS students either supervised or co-supervised, demonstrating his commitment to academic mentorship.

Education 🎓

  • PhD Textile Engineering (2018, NTU, Pakistan | CGPA: 3.53/4)

  • M.Sc. Textile Engineering (2014, NTU | CGPA: 3.60/4)

  • B.Sc. Textile Engineering (2009, NTU | CGPA: 3.20/4)

Experience 💼

  • Fulbright Postdoc Researcher, NCSU, USA (2025–2026)

  • Assistant Professor/Director, National Center for Composite Materials (NC²M), NTU (2018–2024)

  • Industrial Expert, Crescent Textile Mills (2010–2013)

  • Graduate Programs Coordinator, NTU (2022–2024)

Research Interests On Engineering 🔍

  • 2D/3D woven composites (H/I/T/O shapes, turbine blades)

  • Thermal protection textiles (heat/cold comfort)

  • Natural/high-performance fiber composites

  • Mechanical characterization & statistical modeling

Awards & Honors 🏆

  • Top 2% Highly Cited Researcher (Elsevier, 2023)

  • Fulbright Postdoctoral Fellowship (2025)

  • Permanent Member, International Association of Engineers (IAENG)

  • National Patent (#144198, IPO-Pakistan, 2024)

Publications 📚

  • Title: Extraction and characterization of novel fibers from Vernonia elaeagnifolia as a potential textile fiber
    Authors: K Shaker, RMWU Khan, M Jabbar, M Umair, A Tariq, M Kashif, Y Nawab
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 73

  • Title: Investigating the mechanical behavior of composites made from textile industry waste
    Authors: M Umar, K Shaker, S Ahmad, Y Nawab, M Umair, M Maqsood
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 67

  • Title: Effect of woven fabric structure on the air permeability and moisture management properties
    Authors: M Umair, T Hussain, K Shaker, Y Nawab, M Maqsood, M Jabbar
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 62

  • Title: Impact of hydrophobic treatment of jute on moisture regain and mechanical properties of composite material
    Authors: A Ali, K Shaker, Y Nawab, M Ashraf, A Basit, S Shahid, M Umair
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 56

  • Title: Structural textile design: interlacing and interlooping
    Authors: Y Nawab, STA Hamdani, K Shaker
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 52

  • Title: Textile engineering: an introduction
    Authors: Y Nawab, K Shaker
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 47

  • Title: Cellulosic fillers extracted from Argyreia speciose waste: a potential reinforcement for composites to enhance properties
    Authors: K Shaker, M Umair, S Shahid, M Jabbar, RMW Ullah Khan, M Zeeshan, et al.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 47

  • Title: Fibers for technical textiles
    Authors: S Ahmad, T Ullah, Ziauddin
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 46

  • Title: Optimization of 3D woven preform for improved mechanical performance
    Authors: M Kashif, STA Hamdani, Y Nawab, MA Asghar, M Umair, K Shaker
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 45

  • Title: Mechanical Behaviour of Hybrid Composites Developed from Textile Waste
    Authors: Z Masood, S Ahmad, M Umair, K Shaker, Y Nawab, M Karahan
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 44

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Umair is a leading researcher in advanced textiles and composites, bridging academia and industry. His work on 3D woven structures, sustainable materials, and protective gear has global impact, supported by prestigious grants and collaborations. His upcoming Fulbright research at NCSU aims to innovate 3D woven composites for automotive/sports industries.