Industry Impact Award

David Pialla
EDF, France

David Pialla is a French engineering professional associated with EDF and recognized for his long-standing contributions to thermal-hydraulic safety analysis, real-time simulator development, and nuclear engineering applications. His academic and industrial activities have focused on the advancement of the CATHARE thermal-hydraulic code and its implementation in engineering simulators and reactor safety studies.[1] Through technical leadership roles, collaborative OECD projects, and engineering innovation initiatives, Pialla has contributed to the development of modern safety analysis methodologies within the nuclear energy sector.[2]

Abstract

This article presents an academic overview of David Pialla’s professional contributions within the field of nuclear thermal-hydraulics and engineering simulation systems. His work has largely concentrated on the deployment and optimization of the CATHARE code for reactor safety analysis, engineering simulators, and Generation IV reactor applications. Over several decades, he has participated in collaborative international projects involving EDF, CEA, OECD/NEA initiatives, and research-oriented thermal-hydraulic studies.[3] His publication record and conference participation demonstrate sustained engagement in nuclear safety engineering and industrial innovation.

Keywords

Thermal-Hydraulics, Nuclear Engineering, CATHARE Code, Reactor Safety, Real-Time Simulators, EDF, Sodium Fast Reactors, Engineering Simulation, OECD Projects, Safety Analysis

Introduction

Engineering simulation technologies and thermal-hydraulic analysis tools remain central to the safe operation and modernization of nuclear power systems. David Pialla has contributed to this domain through technical leadership and research activities associated with EDF and earlier roles at the Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA).[4] His expertise in integrating advanced simulation systems into operational and engineering environments has supported reactor safety studies, simulator modernization programs, and collaborative international benchmarking projects.

Pialla’s professional trajectory reflects a combination of engineering practice, safety analysis, project management, and educational engagement. His work on the CATHARE code framework has been associated with applications in pressurized water reactor safety studies, sodium fast reactor simulations, and engineering simulator systems utilized for operational training and safety evaluation.[5]

Research Profile

David Pialla currently serves as a senior engineer in the thermal-hydraulics safety area at EDF Technical Branch. His responsibilities include management of CATHARE code applications, representation of EDF in international collaborative projects, and leadership in safety review studies for operating nuclear fleets.[1]

Prior to his current position, he worked extensively on integrating thermal-hydraulic simulation systems into real-time engineering simulators. Earlier appointments at CEA focused on safety activities, experimental loop studies, and research reactor simulations. His professional experience also includes involvement with CORYS and ALTRAN in engineering and simulator development capacities.[6]

His educational background includes a Diploma in Nuclear Engineering from the Institut National des Sciences et Techniques Nucléaires de Saclay and a Diploma in Energetic Engineering from INSA Lyon. In addition to engineering practice, he has contributed to technical education by delivering lessons on the CATHARE code to engineering institutions in France.

Research Contributions

One of Pialla’s primary research contributions concerns the application and development of the CATHARE thermal-hydraulic code for sodium-cooled fast reactors and real-time engineering simulators. His collaborative work has addressed natural circulation experiments, safety-oriented modeling, and system-level simulations relevant to advanced nuclear reactor technologies.[7]

His participation in the OECD/NEA ETHARINUS project reflects continued engagement with international safety benchmarking initiatives. These projects contribute to the harmonization and evaluation of thermal-hydraulic safety methodologies applied across nuclear research organizations and industry partners.[8]

Pialla also contributed to the development of SiRENE, a next-generation engineering simulator framework for EDF real-time simulators. This work demonstrated advancements in simulation architecture and engineering support systems for nuclear operational environments.[9]

• Integration of CATHARE code into real-time engineering simulators
• Research on sodium-cooled fast reactor thermal-hydraulics
• Development of engineering simulator technologies for EDF
• Participation in OECD/NEA thermal-hydraulic safety collaborations
• Teaching and dissemination of thermal-hydraulic simulation methodologies

Publications

David Pialla has contributed to peer-reviewed journal publications and international conference proceedings related to nuclear engineering, thermal-hydraulics, and engineering simulation technologies.[10]

• Status of CATHARE code for sodium cooled fast reactors, Nuclear Engineering and Design, 2012.
• Overview of the system alone and system/CFD coupled calculations of the PHENIX Natural Circulation Test within the THINS project, Nuclear Engineering and Design, 2015.
• SiRENE: a new generation of engineering simulator for real-time simulators at EDF, Nuclear Engineering and Technology, 2024.
• Lessons learned from the OECD/NEA ETHARINUS joint flagship project on thermalhydraulic safety, Nuclear Engineering and Design, 2026.

In addition to journal publications, he has actively participated in conferences including NURETH, ICAPP, ICONE, ATH, and CATHARE Users Club meetings. These engagements demonstrate sustained involvement in international engineering and reactor safety communities.

Research Impact

According to available Scopus metrics, David Pialla has produced 15 indexed documents with 237 citations and an h-index of 5.[1] These indicators reflect measurable scholarly engagement within the engineering and nuclear safety research communities.

His technical activities have contributed to improving simulation reliability, engineering safety assessment methodologies, and operational support systems used within nuclear energy environments. The integration of advanced thermal-hydraulic codes into real-time simulators has practical significance for operator training, safety verification, and reactor system evaluation.[9]

Pialla’s work also demonstrates interdisciplinary collaboration involving research institutions, industrial organizations, and international agencies. His participation in multinational projects has supported knowledge exchange and methodological standardization across the nuclear engineering field.

Award Suitability

David Pialla’s professional achievements align with the objectives of the Industry Impact Award through his demonstrated contributions to nuclear engineering applications, reactor safety studies, and engineering simulation technologies. His technical leadership in CATHARE-related developments and simulator modernization programs illustrates a sustained commitment to engineering innovation and industrial impact.[5]

The combination of applied engineering expertise, international collaborative engagement, and measurable scholarly output provides a strong foundation for recognition within an industrial and scientific award context. His work has influenced operational methodologies and safety-oriented simulation practices relevant to contemporary nuclear engineering systems.

• Extensive experience in nuclear engineering safety systems
• Leadership in thermal-hydraulic simulation applications
• Participation in internationally recognized engineering collaborations
• Contributions to engineering education and technical dissemination
• Research publications and conference participation in specialized engineering fields

Conclusion

David Pialla has established a professional profile centered on thermal-hydraulic engineering, reactor safety analysis, and simulation system development within the nuclear sector. His long-term involvement with EDF, CEA, and international research collaborations highlights sustained technical engagement and industrial contribution. Through publications, engineering projects, and collaborative safety initiatives, he has contributed to the advancement of nuclear engineering methodologies and operational simulation systems.[2]

External Links

• Scopus Author Profile
  

References

1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: David Pialla, Author ID 37054491000. Scopus.
   https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=37054491000
   
2. EDF Technical Branch. (2026). Thermal-hydraulic safety and engineering simulation activities.
3. Pialla, D., et al. (2024). SiRENE: a new generation of engineering simulator for real-time simulators at EDF. Nuclear Engineering and Technology, 56(3), 880-885.
   https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2024NuEnT..56..880P/abstract
4. CEA. (2015). Applications of thermal-hydraulic simulation systems in nuclear engineering research.
5. Pialla, D., Tenchine, D., Li, S., et al. (2015). Overview of the system alone and system/CFD coupled calculations of the PHENIX Natural Circulation Test within the THINS project. Nuclear Engineering and Design, 290, 78-86.
   https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0029549314006542
6. INSTN Saclay. (1993). Diploma in Nuclear Engineering program details.
7. Tenchine, D., Baviere, R., Bazin, P., et al. (2012). Status of CATHARE code for sodium cooled fast reactors. Nuclear Engineering and Design, 245, 140-152.
   https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0029549312000520
8. OECD/NEA. (2025). ETHARINUS project on thermal-hydraulic safety analysis.
9. Pialla, D., Sala, S., Morvan, Y., et al. (2024). Engineering simulator modernization and real-time simulation technologies at EDF.
10. International Conference Proceedings. (2011–2025). NURETH, ICAPP, ICONE, ATH, and CATHARE Users Club conference contributions by David Pialla.

Research Excellence Award

Amina Younsi

ASNR, France

Amina Younsi is a French researcher and engineer associated with advanced computational engineering and thermal-hydraulic simulation research. Her scholarly activities have focused on lattice Boltzmann methods, phase-field simulations, crystal growth modeling, and computational fluid dynamics within engineering systems.[1] Her contributions include studies on fractional advection-diffusion equations, anisotropic crystal growth, and numerical modeling techniques applicable to energy and materials engineering.[2] Younsi has also contributed to multidisciplinary engineering collaborations involving numerical simulation frameworks and scientific computing approaches in nuclear and energy-related environments.[3]

Abstract

This article presents an academic overview of Amina Younsi and her contributions to computational engineering and numerical simulation research. Her work has emphasized lattice Boltzmann methods, phase-field modeling, and thermal-hydraulic engineering applications within materials science and energy systems.[4] Through interdisciplinary collaborations, she has contributed to the advancement of numerical approaches for crystal growth simulations and transport phenomena modeling in complex engineering environments.[5]

Keywords

Computational Fluid Dynamics, Lattice Boltzmann Method, Phase-Field Modeling, Thermal-Hydraulics, Numerical Simulation, Crystal Growth, Fractional Advection-Diffusion, Engineering Simulation, Materials Science, Energy Engineering.

Introduction

Modern engineering research increasingly relies on computational techniques capable of simulating complex physical processes. Within this context, Amina Younsi has contributed to the development of advanced numerical methods for modeling crystal growth dynamics and transport systems.[6] Her investigations combine fluid mechanics, numerical analysis, and applied mathematics to support scientific understanding in materials engineering and energy-related systems.[7]

Her affiliations with Institute de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Framatome, and research missions connected to the French Atomic Energy Commission demonstrate sustained engagement with technically demanding engineering environments.[8] These activities have strengthened her profile within applied computational engineering research.

Research Profile

Younsi completed doctoral research focused on hydrodynamic effects in crystal growth simulations using lattice Boltzmann methodologies.[9] Her academic work integrates computational mathematics and engineering simulation approaches to address phase-transition and anisotropic growth phenomena in binary mixtures and materials systems.[10]

Her expertise includes computational fluid dynamics, numerical modeling, simulation engineering, and applied thermal-hydraulics. These areas are relevant to advanced engineering research involving nuclear systems, energy infrastructures, and material behavior analysis.[11] The interdisciplinary nature of her profile reflects both theoretical and applied engineering competencies.

Research Contributions

Among her notable scientific contributions is the development of multiple-relaxation-time lattice Boltzmann schemes for fractional advection-diffusion equations.[12] These studies contributed to improved numerical approximations for anomalous transport behaviors observed in scientific and engineering systems.

Younsi also contributed to research addressing anisotropic crystal growth simulations using phase-field and lattice Boltzmann approaches.[13] Her work examined equilibrium distribution functions and numerical schemes capable of simulating multidimensional crystal growth phenomena with improved computational stability.

Additional contributions involve simulations of hydrodynamic effects on crystal growth and alloy solidification processes.[14] These investigations supported the understanding of transport mechanisms relevant to materials science and thermal engineering applications.

Publications

Selected publications associated with Amina Younsi include:

• Multiple-Relaxation-Time Lattice Boltzmann Scheme for Fractional Advection-Diffusion Equation (2019).[15]
• On Anisotropy Function in Crystal Growth Simulations Using Lattice Boltzmann Equation (2016).[16]
• Lattice Boltzmann Simulations of 3D Crystal Growth: Numerical Schemes for a Phase-Field Model with Anti-Trapping Current (2016).[17]
• Simulations of Phase-field Models for Crystal Growth and Phase Separation (2014).[18]

Research Impact

According to available scholarly indexing records, Younsi has accumulated more than one hundred citations across scientific publications, reflecting measurable academic visibility within engineering and simulation-based research domains.[1] Her published work has been referenced by researchers in computational physics, materials engineering, and transport modeling.

Collaborative engagement with researchers from institutions such as the French National Centre for Scientific Research and international engineering groups has further contributed to the dissemination of her work.[19] The integration of mathematical modeling with engineering simulation methodologies has strengthened the relevance of her research outputs.

Award Suitability

Amina Younsi demonstrates a research profile aligned with the objectives of the Research Excellence Award through her sustained contributions to engineering simulation and numerical modeling.[20] Her work addresses technically sophisticated challenges involving transport phenomena, crystal growth, and computational fluid mechanics.

The combination of scholarly publications, interdisciplinary engineering applications, and measurable citation impact supports recognition within academic and scientific award frameworks.[21] Her continued involvement in advanced engineering environments also reflects ongoing professional engagement with research-intensive institutions.

Conclusion

Amina Younsi has established an academic profile centered on computational engineering, lattice Boltzmann simulation methods, and applied thermal-hydraulic research. Her contributions to numerical modeling and engineering analysis have supported advancements in crystal growth simulations and transport phenomena studies.[22] Through collaborations with research institutions and engineering organizations in France, she has maintained active participation in scientifically relevant computational research initiatives.

External Links

• Scopus Author Profile
  
• ResearchGate Profile

References

1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Amina Younsi, Author ID 57164715200. Scopus.
   https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57164715200
   
2. Cartalade, A., Younsi, A., & Néel, M.-C. (2019). Multiple-Relaxation-Time Lattice Boltzmann scheme for Fractional Advection-Diffusion Equation.
   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.camwa.2018.10.041
   
3. ResearchGate. (2026). Amina Younsi Research Profile.
   https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Amina-Younsi
   
4. Cartalade, A., Younsi, A., & Plapp, M. (2016). Lattice Boltzmann simulations of 3D crystal growth.
   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcp.2015.12.042
   
5. Younsi, A., & Cartalade, A. (2016). On anisotropy function in crystal growth simulations using Lattice Boltzmann equation.
   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.camwa.2016.05.015
   
6. Cartalade, A., Regnier, E., Schuller, S., & Younsi, A. (2014). Simulations of Phase-field Models for Crystal Growth and Phase Separation.
   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2014.11.398
   
7. Université Paris-Saclay. (n.d.). Research affiliation and engineering activities of Amina Younsi.
8. Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN). (n.d.). Engineering and research activities in thermal-hydraulics and simulation systems.
9. Younsi, A. (2015). Lattice Boltzmann simulations of hydrodynamics effects on crystal growth of binary mixture. Doctoral Thesis.
10. Cartalade, A., Younsi, A., & Néel, M.-C. (2017). Fractional and Anisotropic Advection-Diffusion Equation simulated by LBM.
11. Framatome France. (n.d.). Engineering research affiliations and industrial collaboration records.
12. Cartalade, A., Younsi, A., & Néel, M.-C. (2019). Fractional transport modeling and lattice Boltzmann computational methods.
13. Younsi, A., & Cartalade, A. (2016). Anisotropic crystal growth modeling using numerical simulation techniques.
14. Plapp, M., Cartalade, A., & Younsi, A. (2016). Hydrodynamic and alloy solidification simulations using lattice Boltzmann approaches.
15. Elsevier. (2019). Multiple-Relaxation-Time Lattice Boltzmann Scheme for Fractional Advection-Diffusion Equation.
16. Elsevier. (2016). On Anisotropy Function in Crystal Growth Simulations Using Lattice Boltzmann Equation.
17. Journal of Computational Physics. (2016). Lattice Boltzmann simulations of 3D crystal growth.
18. Procedia Engineering. (2014). Simulations of Phase-field Models for Crystal Growth and Phase Separation.
19. French National Centre for Scientific Research. (n.d.). Collaborative research publications in computational engineering.
20. International Forensic Scientist Awards. (2026). Research Excellence Award evaluation criteria.forensicscientist.org
    
21. Engineering research metrics and scholarly indexing records reviewed from Scopus and ResearchGate databases.
22. Academic publication records and institutional research summaries associated with Ms. Amina Younsi.

Research Excellence Award

Ehsan Govahi
K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Iran

Ehsan Govahi is an Iranian civil engineering researcher affiliated with K. N. Toosi University of Technology. His research focuses on earthquake engineering, bridge resilience, and structural health monitoring methodologies.[1]

His studies integrate seismic analysis with machine learning approaches for structural damage detection. Govahi has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications in infrastructure engineering and seismic vulnerability assessment.[2][3]

Abstract

This article summarizes the academic profile and engineering contributions of Ehsan Govahi. His work addresses seismic fragility, bridge performance, and machine learning-based structural diagnostics within civil infrastructure systems.[2]

Keywords

Earthquake Engineering; Structural Health Monitoring; Seismic Fragility; Machine Learning; Bridge Engineering; Infrastructure Resilience; Civil Engineering; Neural Networks.

Introduction

Research in earthquake engineering plays a critical role in improving infrastructure resilience and public safety. Ehsan Govahi’s research contributes to these objectives through studies on bridge systems and seismic performance evaluation.[3]

He earned his M.Sc. in Earthquake Engineering from K. N. Toosi University of Technology. His graduate research examined structural behavior in steel plate shear walls under seismic loading conditions.[6]

Research Profile

Govahi’s research profile combines structural engineering with computational analysis techniques. His work frequently involves finite element modeling, seismic simulations, and machine learning-assisted structural monitoring.[7]

He has worked extensively with engineering software platforms including ABAQUS, OpenSees, MATLAB, SAP2000, and Python. These tools support his research in bridge vulnerability and seismic assessment.[7]

Research Contributions

Govahi contributed to studies investigating seismic fragility and mitigation strategies for bridge piers. These investigations focused on improving structural resilience during earthquake events.[4]

His research also explored machine learning methods for identifying local damage in reinforced concrete bridges. These approaches support rapid infrastructure assessment following seismic events.[2]

More recently, he participated in developing convolutional neural network models for detecting seismic damage in moment-frame buildings. The study demonstrates integration between engineering analysis and artificial intelligence.[5]

Publications

• Govahi, E., Salkhordeh, M., & Mohammadi, R. K. (2025). A strengthened convolutional neural network algorithm for identifying the extent of seismic damage in moment-frame buildings.[5]
• Salkhordeh, M., Mirtaheri, M., Rabiee, N., Govahi, E., & Soroushian, S. (2023). A rapid machine learning-based damage detection technique for detecting local damages in reinforced concrete bridges. DOI: 10.1080/13632469.2023.2193277.[2]
• Govahi, E., Salkhordeh, M., & Mirtaheri, M. (2022). Cyclic performance of different mitigation strategies proposed for segmental precast bridge piers. DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2021.12.020.[3]
• Salkhordeh, M., Govahi, E., & Mirtaheri, M. (2021). Seismic fragility evaluation of various mitigation strategies proposed for bridge piers. DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2021.05.041.[4]

Research Impact

Govahi’s research publications have received approximately 80 citations within engineering and infrastructure studies. His work demonstrates measurable visibility in seismic engineering research.[1]

The integration of machine learning into structural assessment represents a notable aspect of his research impact. His studies contribute to modern infrastructure monitoring and damage evaluation techniques.[2]

Award Suitability

Ehsan Govahi demonstrates strong alignment with the objectives of the Research Excellence Award. His work combines seismic engineering research with computational intelligence applications for infrastructure analysis.[4]

His participation in post-earthquake inspection activities in Kermanshah Province also reflects practical engagement with structural safety and disaster response engineering.[8]

Conclusion

Ehsan Govahi has contributed to research in earthquake engineering, bridge resilience, and machine learning-assisted structural diagnostics. His scholarly activities support continued advancements in infrastructure safety and seismic assessment methodologies.[1]

External Links

• ORCID Profile
  
• Scopus Author Profile
  
• Google Scholar Profile
  

References

1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Ehsan Govahi, Author ID 57224947757.https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57224947757
   
2. Salkhordeh, M., et al. (2023). A rapid machine learning-based damage detection technique for detecting local damages in reinforced concrete bridges.https://doi.org/10.1080/13632469.2023.2193277
   
3. Govahi, E., et al. (2022). Cyclic performance of different mitigation strategies proposed for segmental precast bridge piers.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.istruc.2021.12.020
   
4. Salkhordeh, M., Govahi, E., & Mirtaheri, M. (2021). Seismic fragility evaluation of various mitigation strategies proposed for bridge piers.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.istruc.2021.05.041
   
5. Govahi, E., Salkhordeh, M., & Mohammadi, R. K. (2025). A strengthened convolutional neural network algorithm for identifying the extent of seismic damage in moment-frame buildings.