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

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

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.

Dehua Wu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dehua Wu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Fuzhou University | China

Dr. Dehua Wu is a highly respected Associate Professor in the Department of Transportation Engineering at the College of Civil Engineering, Fuzhou University. Known for his leadership in intelligent transportation systems research, he has made significant advancements in autonomous driving integration, connected vehicle applications, and traffic safety improvement. His career reflects a dedication to bridging advanced transportation technologies with practical engineering solutions that address real-world challenges. With a strong reputation in both academia and industry, he is frequently invited to contribute his expertise to research collaborations, governmental advisory boards, and infrastructure development projects.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Wu’s academic achievements form a solid foundation for his expertise in transportation systems. He earned his Ph.D. in Transportation Planning & Management from Tongji University, where he developed analytical frameworks for improving traffic efficiency and safety. He also holds a master’s degree in Road & Railway Engineering and a bachelor’s degree in Highway & Urban Road Engineering from Chang’an University, where he built a deep understanding of road design principles, traffic modeling, and urban mobility planning. His educational background has equipped him with the skills to integrate engineering theory with cutting-edge technology in transportation innovation.

Experience

In his role as Associate Professor at Fuzhou University, Dr. Wu leads research teams, mentors postgraduate students, and designs advanced courses in transportation engineering. His international experience as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Alberta broadened his research scope, allowing him to incorporate global perspectives into local infrastructure solutions. Before entering academia, he served as a Senior Engineer at the Fujian Transport Planning Bureau, where he played a key role in formulating strategies for road safety auditing, transportation policy, and network optimization. His professional portfolio includes consulting work on large-scale safety risk assessments, expressway development, and urban traffic impact studies, demonstrating his ability to apply research to practical, high-stakes projects.

Research Interest

Dr. Wu’s research spans Intelligent Transportation Systems, autonomous and connected vehicle integration, and advanced traffic safety evaluation. His work addresses congestion management, accident black spot analysis, and the development of data-driven traffic control models. He has conducted in-depth studies on traffic flow dynamics in tunnel and expressway systems under intelligent connected conditions, offering innovative solutions for speed limit control, hazard detection, and infrastructure resilience. Additionally, his research extends to transportation planning and facility design, with a focus on creating adaptable, future-ready systems that enhance mobility, safety, and sustainability.

Awards

Dr. Wu’s research leadership and his ability to translate complex engineering concepts into actionable transportation solutions have earned him professional recognition and respect. His projects, funded by prestigious scientific foundations and transportation technology programs, have directly influenced transportation safety protocols, traffic management systems, and smart vehicle integration strategies. His sustained record of impactful research positions him as an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award, reflecting a career defined by innovation, practical relevance, and societal benefit.

Publications

Title: Hybrid Characteristics of Heterogeneous Traffic Flow in Intelligent Network
Journal: Journal of Southwest Jiaotong University
Published on: 2022

Title: Hybrid Characteristics of Heterogeneous Traffic Flow Under Different Aggregating Lane-Change Strategies in Intelligent Network
Journal: Journal of Southwest Jiaotong University
Published on: 2023

Title: Adaptive Variable Speed Limit Optimization Control Model for Highways
Journal: Journal of Fuzhou University (Natural Science Edition)
Published on: 2017

Title: Evolution Patterns of Heterogeneous Traffic Flow at Ramp Bottlenecks on Expressways
Journal: Journal of Guizhou University (Natural Science Edition)
Published on: 2020

Title: Fuzzy Control and Simulation of Congested Traffic Flow in Merge Bottleneck Areas Based on Chaos Theory
Journal: Journal of Guizhou University (Natural Science Edition)
Published on: 2017

Title: Quantitative Algorithm for Traffic Sign Information Based on Information Transfer Principle
Journal: Journal of Guizhou University (Natural Science Edition)
Published on: 2017

Conclusion

Dr. Dehua Wu’s career exemplifies the integration of research excellence, engineering innovation, and applied problem-solving. His contributions to intelligent transportation systems, safety management, and infrastructure optimization have influenced policy, shaped industry practices, and advanced the scientific understanding of traffic behavior. With a proven ability to deliver high-impact research and practical solutions, he stands as a leading figure in his field and an outstanding nominee for the Best Researcher Award.