Andrii Hovorukha | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Andrii Hovorukha | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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

Mr. Andrii Hovorukha is a researcher specializing in the mechanics, dynamics, and tribology of railway and industrial transport systems. His work focuses on the mathematical modeling of dynamic interactions, wear, and operational safety of track structures, rolling stock, and heavily loaded mining equipment. He has authored 36 scientific publications with 15 citations and a Google Scholar h-index of 3, contributing to international journals and conference proceedings. His research includes the development of innovative friction modifier technologies, particularly the “Ideal” repair and restoration mixture, which forms wear-resistant nanostructured layers, significantly extending equipment service life. Mr. Andrii Hovorukha’s contributions advance the reliability, safety, and efficiency of industrial and railway transport systems, bridging theoretical modeling with practical industrial applications.

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View Google Scholar Profile  View ORCID Profile

Featured Publications


Improvement of the service life of mining and industrial equipment by using friction modifiers

– V.V. Hovorukha, A.V. Hovorukha · Scientific Bulletin of National Mining University, 2023 · Cited by 3


Исследование динамики приводов стрелочных переводов горного транспорта

– A.V. Hovorukha, S.L. Ladik · Геотехнічна механіка, 2015 · Cited by 3


Method for studying spatial vibrations of a vehicle during its movement along the rail track on separate supports with elastic-dissipative and inertial properties

– L.P. Semyditna, V.V. Hovorukha, A.V. Hovorukha, T.P. Sobko · Геотехнічна механіка, 2022 · Cited by 2


Research of deformed state of railway track joint zones in complex operating conditions of rail transport

– V.V. Hovorukha, A.V. Hovorukha, Y.O. Makarov, T.P. Sobko, L.P. Semyditna · Геотехнічна механіка, 2023 · Cited by 1

Kirubakaran Annamalai | Engineering | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Kirubakaran Annamalai | Engineering | Research Excellence Award

National Institute of Technology Warangal | India

Dr. Kirubakaran Annamalai, Associate Professor at the Department of Electrical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Warangal, is a distinguished researcher in Power Electronics, Renewable Energy Systems, and Distributed Generation, with a primary focus on the design, analysis, and implementation of multilevel inverters, DC-DC and DC-AC converters, grid-tied photovoltaic systems, and power quality improvement techniques. He has made significant contributions to quasi-Z-source and switched-capacitor-based inverter topologies, emphasizing high efficiency, reduced device counts, leakage current minimization, and real-time control using DSP, FPGA, and dSPACE platforms. Dr. Kirubakaran Annamalai has published 70 peer-reviewed articles, accumulating 1,563 citations with an h-index of 14 (Scopus), in top international journals such as IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics, IEEE Journal of Emerging and Selected Topics in Power Electronics, and Springer’s Journal of Electrical Engineering, and has presented extensively at IEEE and global conferences. He has authored multiple book chapters on advanced power electronics for solar PV and hybrid renewable systems, demonstrating his expertise in sustainable energy technologies. He has successfully led and collaborated on research projects funded by SERB, DST-FIST, SPARC, and SIRE, with budgets ranging from Rs. 2.8 Lakhs to over Rs. 94 Lakhs, focusing on innovative converter designs, smart grid laboratories, and electric vehicle applications, and holds patents on transformer less multilevel inverters. Dr. Kirubakaran Annamalai has supervised numerous Ph.D. and M.Tech scholars, advancing frontier research in power electronics. Recognized for his research excellence through the SIRE Fellowship 2023, multiple IEEE Best Paper Awards, editorial contributions, conference chairing, and active membership in IEEE, ISTE, and other professional bodies, he continues to drive innovation in inverter topologies, grid integration strategies, and renewable energy systems, making a lasting impact on modern power conversion technologies.

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

Featured Publications

  • Palakurthi, R., & Kirubakaran, A. (2025). DSP controlled single-phase two-stage five-level inverter for high-efficiency grid-connected photovoltaic systems. Electrical Engineering, 108(1).

  • Palakurthi, R., & Kirubakaran, A. (2025). Rapid prototyping of FPGA controlled common ground single-phase transformerless five-level inverter using Xilinx System Generator. IEEE Latin America Transactions, 23(7), 609–618.

  • Kalyan Singh, K., & Kirubakaran, A. (2025). Single-phase five-level common ground transformerless switched capacitor inverters for PV applications with double gain. In 2025 Fourth International Conference on Power, Control and Computing Technologies (ICPC2T).

  • Barzegarkhoo, R., Kirubakaran, A., Pereira, T., Liserre, M., & Siwakoti, Y. P. (2024). Improved T-type and ANPC multilevel converters by means of GaN-based T-cell branch and bidirectional device. In IECON 2024 – 50th Annual Conference of the IEEE Industrial Electronics Society.

  • Kirubakaran, A., Barzegarkhoo, R., & Liserre, M. (2024). A new single-phase dual-mode active neutral point-clamped five-level inverter for renewable applications. In 2024 Third International Conference on Power, Control and Computing Technologies (ICPC2T).

Abdelkader Slimane | Engineering | Editorial Board Member

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdelkader Slimane | Engineering | Editorial Board Member

University of Science and Technology of Oran Mohamed Boudiaf | Algeria

Dr. Abdelkader Slimane is a highly accomplished mechanical engineering researcher whose work has made significant contributions to structural integrity, fracture mechanics, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace-related mechanical systems. His research expertise encompasses ductile damage modeling, fatigue crack growth prediction, welded structure assessment, rotary ultrasonic machining, vibration behavior, and the mechanical reliability of composite and metallic materials. With 20 scholarly publications, his work appears in leading international journals such as Journal of Materials Research and Technology, Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures, International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Periodica Polytechnica Mechanical Engineering, Fracture and Structural Integrity, and Interactive Design and Manufacturing (IJIDeM). These publications collectively highlight his impactful contributions to areas including satellite structural design, hypervelocity impact simulation, cracked pipeline modeling, active power filtering using neural networks, and the optimization of machining and welding parameters through innovative computational and experimental approaches. Dr. Slimane’s Google Scholar metrics 464 citations, an h-index of 13, and an i10-index of 16—demonstrate the strong visibility and influence of his work across the mechanical engineering community. His extensive conference participation has further broadened the dissemination of his research in domains such as fracture mechanics, material behavior, aeronautical engineering, and mechanical system optimization. In addition to his research achievements, he contributes meaningfully to the scientific community through editorial service in reputable journals and active peer-review roles for numerous international publications. Dr. Slimane’s multidisciplinary research profile reflects a sustained commitment to advancing structural reliability, material innovation, computational mechanics, and engineering solutions that support modern industrial and aerospace applications.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Slimane, A., Bouchouicha, B., Benguediab, M., & Slimane, S. A. (2015). Parametric study of the ductile damage by the Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman model of structures in carbon steel A48-AP. Journal of Materials Research and Technology, 4(2), 217–223.

2. Slimane, S. A., Slimane, A., Guelailia, A., Boudjemai, A., Kebdani, S., Smahat, A., … (2022). Hypervelocity impact on honeycomb structure reinforced with bi-layer ceramic/aluminum facesheets used for spacecraft shielding. Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures, 29(25), 4487–4505.

3. Slimane, S., Kebdani, S., Boudjemai, A., & Slimane, A. (2018). Effect of position of tension-loaded inserts on honeycomb panels used for space applications. International Journal on Interactive Design and Manufacturing (IJIDeM), 12(2),

4. Slimane, A., Bouchouicha, B., Benguediab, M., & Slimane, S. A. (2015). Contribution to the study of fatigue and rupture of welded structures in carbon steel A48-AP: Experimental and numerical study. Transactions of the Indian Institute of Metals, 68(3), 465–477.

5. Slimane, A., Slimane, S., Kebdani, S., Chaib, M., Dahmane, S., Bouchouicha, B., … (2019). Parameters effects analysis of rotary ultrasonic machining on carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) composite using an interactive RSM method. International Journal on Interactive Design and Manufacturing (IJIDeM), 13(2),

Surakasi Raviteja | Engineering | Excellence in Research Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Surakasi Raviteja | Engineering | Excellence in Research Award

Lendi Institute of Engineering and Technology | India

Dr. Surakasi Ravi Teja is a dedicated researcher whose work spans thermal engineering, nanofluids, biofuels, heat transfer augmentation, sustainable energy systems, and advanced materials science. His research expertise includes the experimental evaluation of thermophysical properties, development of nanomaterial-enhanced solar thermal fluids, ANN-based predictive modeling, biodiesel and pyrolysis-fuel combustion analysis, and CFD-driven optimization of thermal devices. With 77 Scopus-indexed publications, 960 citations, and an h-index of 17, he has established a strong scientific presence, contributing extensively to high-impact Scopus-, SCI-, and SCIE-indexed journals such as Frontiers in Heat and Mass Transfer, Journal of Nanomaterials, Materials Today: Proceedings, International Journal of Chemical Engineering, and Adsorption Science & Technology. His Q1–Q2 publications reflect significant advancements in areas including nanofluid stability, enhanced heat transfer, eco-friendly fuel blends with  , and nano-reinforced composite materials. His interdisciplinary works extend to solar water heating systems, cryogenic vessel design, adsorption-based separation technologies, and nanoparticle-assisted wastewater treatment. Several of his highly cited studies focus on waste-to-energy conversion, algae-oil biodiesel applications, and green-synthesized nanoparticles for environmental remediation, highlighting his contribution to sustainable and cleaner energy technologies. In addition to his research output, Dr. Teja serves as a reviewer for numerous national and international journals and holds editorial memberships, contributing to global scholarly communication and knowledge dissemination. His consistent research engagement, innovation-driven approach, and interdisciplinary collaborations underscore his impactful role in advancing thermal sciences, materials engineering, and renewable energy research.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID | Staff Profile

Featured Publications

  1. Sathish, T., Vijayalakshmi, A., Surakasi, R., Ahalya, N., Rajkumar, M., … (2024). DeepNNet 15 for the prediction of biological waste to energy conversion and nutrient level detection in treated sewage water. Process Safety and Environmental Protection, 189, 636–647.

  2. Senthil, T. S., Puviyarasan, M., Babu, S. R., Surakasi, R., & Sampath, B. (2023). Industrial robot-integrated fused deposition modelling for the 3D printing process. In Development, Properties, and Industrial Applications of 3D Printed Polymer Materials

  3. Lakshmaiya, N., Surakasi, R., Nadh, V. S., Srinivas, C., Kaliappan, S., … (2023). Tanning wastewater sterilization in the dark and sunlight using Psidium guajava leaf-derived copper oxide nanoparticles and their characteristics. ACS Omega, 8(42), 39680–39689.

  4. Nirmal Kumar, K., Dinesh Babu, P., Surakasi, R., Kumar, P. M., & Ashokkumar, P. (2022). Mechanical and thermal properties of bamboo fiber–reinforced PLA polymer composites: A critical study. International Journal of Polymer Science, 2022(1), 1332157.

  5. Vennila, T., Karuna, M. S., Srivastava, B. K., Venugopal, J., & Surakasi, R. (2023). New strategies in treatment and enzymatic processes: Ethanol production from sugarcane bagasse. In Human Agro-Energy Optimization for Business and Industry (pp. 219–240).

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

Sarat Mohapatra | Engineering | Innovative Research Award

Dr. Sarat Mohapatra | Engineering | Innovative Research Award

Centre for Marine Technology and Ocean Engineering (CENTEC), Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon | Portugal

Dr. Sarat Mohapatra is an accomplished marine researcher whose work bridges theoretical modeling, computational simulation, and experimental validation in the fields of hydroelasticity, ocean hydrodynamics, offshore aquaculture systems, and floating platform dynamics. His research primarily addresses complex fluid–structure interactions and the development of hydroelastic models for flexible and porous marine structures under combined wave and current conditions. With over 70 international publications in leading journals such as Ocean Engineering, Applied Ocean Research, Journal of Fluids and Structures, Physics of Fluids, and Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, his work has received significant global recognition, reflected in an h-index of 21 and more than 1,160 citations. Dr. Sarat Mohapatra has been a key contributor to several European and Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT)-funded projects, focusing on hydrodynamic and hydroelastic analysis of large floating structures and wave energy systems. His recent studies include the development of analytical, numerical, and CFD-based models to predict wave-current interactions and improve the design of sustainable marine systems. In addition to his strong publication record, he has served as a journal reviewer, editorial contributor, and co-supervisor for doctoral and postgraduate research, promoting innovation and collaboration within marine technology. Through his pioneering contributions, Dr. Sarat Mohapatra continues to advance the understanding of ocean engineering phenomena, supporting innovations in marine renewable energy, offshore structure design, and environmentally resilient aquaculture technologies that contribute to the sustainable utilization of ocean resources.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID | ResearchGate | Cienciavitae

Featured Publications

  • Mohapatra, S. C., Amouzadrad, P., & Guedes Soares, C. (2025). Recent developments in the nonlinear hydroelastic modeling of sea ice interaction with marine structures. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 13(8), Article 1410. https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13081410

  • Mohapatra, S. C., & Guedes Soares, C. (2025). Oblique wave analysis under current conditions on a floating flexible membrane. Physics of Fluids, 37(7), Article 072101. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0278003

  • Mohapatra, S. C., Guedes Soares, C., & Meylan, M. H. (2025). Three-dimensional and oblique wave-current interaction with a floating elastic plate based on an analytical approach. Symmetry, 17(6), Article 831. https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17060831

  • Amouzadrad, P., Mohapatra, S. C., & Guedes Soares, C. (2025). Review on sensitivity and uncertainty analysis of hydrodynamic and hydroelastic responses of floating offshore structures. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 13(6), Article 1015. https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13061015

  • Mohapatra, S. C., & Guedes Soares, C. (2025). Wave–current interaction with a deformable bottom in a three-dimensional channel. Physics of Fluids, 37(5), Article 052104. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0267255

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

Mohamed Noufal | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Mohamed Noufal | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Hampton University | United States

Prof. Mohamed Noufal, Ph.D., is a distinguished chemical engineer and academic leader, serving as Chair of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Director of the Quantum Materials Laboratory at Hampton University, Virginia, USA. He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences and Engineering from The University of Texas at El Paso (2022), an M.Sc. in Chemistry from Ain Shams University, Egypt (2016), and a B.Sc. in Chemistry from Mansoura University, Egypt (2012). With over eight years of experience in research, teaching, and program development, Prof. Mohamed Noufal has established an internationally recognized portfolio in advanced electrocatalysis, semiconductor interfaces, 2D materials, green hydrogen technologies, and AI-assisted materials discovery. His professional journey includes faculty associate roles at Purdue Fort Wayne’s First Molecule Center, visiting professorships at the University of Pennsylvania and University of Virginia, and leadership of interdisciplinary initiatives in fullerenes and van der Waals heterostructures. He has secured competitive funding from NSF, NASA, DOE, and other agencies, and has mentored numerous graduate and undergraduate researchers advancing in academic and professional roles. Prof. Mohamed Noufal’s recent publications include “Raman fingerprints of spin-phonon coupling and magnetic transition in an organic molecule intercalated Cr₂Ge₂Te₆”, “Unraveling the Cooperative Activity of Hydrophilicity, Conductivity, and Interfacial Active Sites in Alginate‐CNT‐CuO Self‐Standing Electrodes”, and “Cylindrical C96 Fullertubes: A Highly Active Metal‐Free O₂‐Reduction Electrocatalyst”, collectively cited 19 times across 7 Scopus-indexed documents with an h-index of 3. Recognized for his innovation in nanomaterials synthesis, biosensor development, and sustainable energy technologies, Prof. Mohamed Noufal has significantly advanced research, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration in chemical engineering.

Profile: Scopus | Staff Page

Featured Publications

Samanta, S., Iturriaga, H., Mai, T. T., Biacchi, A. J., Islam, R., Hight Walker, A. R., & Noufal, M. (2023). Raman fingerprints of spin-phonon coupling and magnetic transition in an organic molecule intercalated Cr₂Ge₂Te₆. arXiv preprint arXiv:2312.01270.

Noufal, M., et al. (2023). Unraveling the cooperative activity of hydrophilicity, conductivity, and interfacial active sites in alginate‐CNT‐CuO self‐standing electrodes with benchmark-close activity for alkaline water splitting. Advanced Sustainable Systems, 7(12), 2300283.

Bhunia, S., Peña-Duarte, A., Li, H., Li, H., Noufal, M., Saha, P., Addicoat, M. A., Sasaki, K., Strom, T. A., Yacamán, M. J., & Cabrera, C. R. (2023). [2,1,3]-Benzothiadiazole-spaced Co-porphyrin-based covalent organic frameworks for O₂ reduction. ACS Nano, 17(4), 3492–3505.

Noufal, M., et al. (2022). Cylindrical C₉₆ fullertubes: A highly active metal‐free O₂‐reduction electrocatalyst. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 61(21), e202116727.

Puente Santiago, A. R., Noufal, M., Moreno-Vicente, A., Ahsan, M. A., Cerón, M. R., Yao, Y.-R., Sreenivasan, S. T., Rodriguez-Fortea, A., Poblet, J. M., & Echegoyen, L. (2021). A new class of molecular electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution: Catalytic activity of M₃N@C₂ₙ (2n = 68, 78, and 80) fullerenes. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 143(16), 6037–6042.

Noufal, M., et al. (2021). Co–Cu bimetallic metal-organic framework catalyst outperforms the Pt/C benchmark for oxygen reduction. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 143(10), 4064–4073.

Noufal, M., et al. (2022). Metal-organic framework in fuel cell technology: Fundamentals and application. In Electrochemical applications of metal-organic frameworks (pp. 135–189). Elsevier.

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

Google Scholar

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.

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.

Professional Profile

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.