Sidra Riaz | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Sidra Riaz | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Polytechnic of Bari | Italy

Sidra Riaz is a passionate researcher in Aerospace Engineering with a strong foundation in Physics and advanced numerical simulation. Currently based in Bari, Italy, she has cultivated a global academic profile through her PhD at Politecnico di Bari and a research stint at the University of Paris Nanterre, France. Her work primarily explores thermal behavior in composite materials, making valuable contributions to the aerospace and materials science communities.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Strong Academic Background

    • PhD in Aerospace Engineering from Politecnico Di Bari, Italy with advanced research on thermal behavior in layered composites—a cutting-edge area with real-world aerospace applications.

    • Internationally trained with a solid foundation in Physics (Bachelor’s and MPhil), indicating interdisciplinary strength.

  • Research & Innovation

    • Published several high-quality papers in thermographic techniques and numerical modeling using advanced simulation tools like COMSOL and Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF).

    • Her work on composite defect analysis through Lock-in Thermography demonstrates originality and relevance to both academic and industrial applications.

  • International Exposure

    • Visiting Researcher at University of Paris Nanterre, France—showing collaboration across borders and involvement with high-end labs (LEME).

    • Attended and presented at over 10+ international conferences across Europe and Asia, proving her active engagement in global scientific communities.

  • Technical & Analytical Skills

    • Proficient in various modeling, simulation, and analysis tools: COMSOL, MATLAB, IRTA, MUL2, PATRAN, NASTRAN, OriginPro.

    • Demonstrates ability to model complex multi-layered composite materials, a skill crucial in aerospace and materials engineering.

  • Academic and Teaching Contributions

    • Prior experience as a Lecturer in Physics and Mechanics Lab supervision highlights her dedication to knowledge dissemination.

    • Supervised undergraduate projects, building a mentoring portfolio alongside her research.

🎓 Education

Sidra began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s in Physics from Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan (CGPA: 3.22/4.00), where she conducted a thesis on plasma properties. She pursued her Master of Philosophy in Physics at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (CGPA: 3.72/4.00), researching carbon nanotube synthesis using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. She then elevated her academic pursuit with a PhD in Aerospace Engineering (2021–2024) from Politecnico Di Bari, Italy. Her doctoral research, supervised by Prof. Umberto Galietti and Prof. Maria Cinefra, focused on dynamic thermal behavior in layered composites. She also worked as a Visiting Researcher at University of Paris Nanterre, under Prof. Michele D’Ottavio, contributing to the LEME Lab.

đź§Ş Experience

Sidra’s professional experience includes a teaching tenure as a Lecturer (2020–2021) at Informatics Group of Colleges & Polytechnic Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan, where she led physics labs and supervised undergraduate projects. Her PhD and international collaborations allowed her to master advanced simulation tools and thermographic techniques. She has participated in numerous workshops and conferences across Europe and the Middle East, showcasing her findings and enhancing her scientific outreach.

🔬 Research Interests On Engineering

Sidra’s core research interests lie in numerical modeling, COMSOL Multiphysics simulations, and thermographic techniques for defect detection in composite materials. Her expertise covers Lock-in Thermography, Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF), and COMSOL-based simulation of layered composites. Her work aims at enhancing non-destructive testing methods to improve aerospace safety and efficiency.

🏆 Awards & Achievements

  • 🎓 Awarded International PhD Scholarship in Aerospace Engineering at Politecnico Di Bari, Italy

  • 🌍 Selected as a Visiting Researcher at University of Paris Nanterre, France

  • 📚 Recipient of Punjab Benevolent Fund Scholarship during undergraduate studies

  • 🏅 Consistent scholarship awardee during intermediate education

📚 Publications

Sidra has authored impactful research publications in reputable journals and conferences. Her publications include:

1. Title: The Intelligent Transportation Systems with Advanced Technology of Sensor and Network

Authors: MT Riaz, SM Aaqib, S Ahmad, S Amin, H Ali, S Husnain, S Riaz
Publication Year: 2021
Citations: 21

2. Title: Investigation of Electrical Properties of Epoxy Resin Composite with the Surface Modification of SiOâ‚‚ Nanoparticles

Authors: MT Riaz, A Zaib, MZ Khan, S Riaz, S Ahmad, H Ali, MM Qureshi
Publication Year: 2021
Citations: 4

3. Title: Effect of Thermal Conductivities and Lay-up Sequence on Defect Detection in Composite Laminate Using Lock-in Thermography Test

Authors: S Riaz, Davide Palumbo, Umberto Galietti, Maria Cinefra
Publication Year: 2024

âś… Conclusion

Sidra Riaz exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated and innovative researcher. With a global academic footprint, a solid technical foundation, and a passion for problem-solving through simulation and thermography, she is an ideal candidate for a Best Researcher Award. Her contributions to aerospace materials and collaborative mindset make her a valuable asset to the scientific community.

Liang-Wei Cui | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Liang-Wei Cui | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Southwest Forestry University | China

Dr. Liang-Wei Cui is a distinguished professor at the Faculty of Biodiversity Conservation, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, China. His research primarily focuses on primate behavior ecology and conservation, as well as mammal biodiversity conservation and monitoring. With decades of experience in zoological studies, he has led several key projects on the conservation of endangered primates, particularly the Black-and-White Snub-Nosed Monkey.

Profile👤

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

âś… Outstanding Research Contributions: Dr. Cui has an extensive publication record, with multiple high-impact papers on primate behavior, ecology, and conservation in well-respected journals such as the American Journal of Primatology, Ecology and Evolution, and Ecosystem Health and Sustainability. His research addresses critical issues in biodiversity conservation, particularly for endangered species like the Black-and-White Snub-Nosed Monkey (Rhinopithecus bieti).

âś… Strong Research Focus & Impact: His work on mammal biodiversity conservation and monitoring directly contributes to wildlife protection strategies, habitat restoration, and species survival. Projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) demonstrate the significance and credibility of his research.

âś… Collaborative and International Recognition: Dr. Cui collaborates with multiple researchers across institutions, including leading primatologists and conservation scientists. His research includes interdisciplinary studies on habitat fragmentation, provisioning impacts, and climate effects on wildlife, showing a broad and integrative scientific approach.

âś… Long-Term Commitment to Conservation: With over 15 years of experience as a professor at Southwest Forestry University, Dr. Cui has contributed significantly to the academic and scientific community, training future conservationists and zoologists.

🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in Zoology (September 1997 – July 2003)
    Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China

👨‍🏫 Experience

  • Professor (August 2008 – Present)
    Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, Yunnan, China

🔬 Research Interests On Ecology

Dr. Cui’s research spans two major areas:

  • Primate Behavior Ecology and Conservation
  • Mammal Biodiversity Conservation and Monitoring

His work primarily focuses on understanding primate behavior, habitat fragmentation, and conservation strategies to mitigate threats to endangered species.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Cui has been recognized for his contributions to primate conservation and biodiversity research, receiving multiple grants and accolades for his work in wildlife preservation and ecological sustainability.

📚 Publications

Dr. Cui has authored several influential research papers in primatology and conservation science. Below are some of his recent publications:

  • A new record of Coelichneumon rufofemoratus (Cameron, 1903) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) from Eastern Himalayas, with a checklist of all the species of the genus from the Oriental region

    • Authors: Yang, Xia; Huang, Zhi-Pang; Cui, Liang-Wei; Pos, Davide Dal; Reshchikov, Alexey; Xiao, Wen
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: Not available
  • Surviving at the highest and coldest: Nutritional and chemical components of fallback foods for Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys

    • Authors: Pan, Hao; Hou, Rong; Zhang, He; Li, Yanpeng; Huang, Zhipang; Cui, Liangwei; Xiao, Wen
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: Not available
  • Variation in monthly and seasonal elevation use impacts behavioral and dietary flexibility in Rhinopithecus bieti

    • Authors: Kraus, Jacob B.; Huang, Zhi-Pang; Li, Yan-Pang; Cui, Liang-Wei; Wang, Shuang-Jin; Li, Jin-Fa; Liu, Feng; Wang, Yun; Strier, Karen B.; Xiao, Wen
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: Not available
  • Integrative Taxonomy Revealed High Diversity of Hemiphyllodactylus Bleeker, 1860 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) and the Description of Three New Species from Yunnan Province, China

    • Authors: Hongxin Zhou; Xiuyan Li; Chaoying Yuan; Liangwei Cui; Shuo Liu; Dingqi Rao
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: Not available
  • Effects of Environmental Factors on Bird Communities in Different Urbanization Grades: An Empirical Study in Lishui, a Mountainous Area of Eastern China

    • Authors: Zhang, Wenwen; Zhou, Ying; Fang, Xuelan; Zhao, Shengjun; Wu, Yi; Zhang, Haonan; Cui, Liangwei; Cui, Peng
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: Not available
  • Effects of food availability and climate on the activity budget of Shortridge’s langur (Trachypithecus shortridgei) in the Drung Valley, Gaoligong Mountains, China

    • Authors: Zhang, Jia-Yang; Li, Ying-Chun; Yang, Yin; Garber, Paul A.; Han, Ke-Guo; Huang, Zhi-Pang; Cui, Liang-Wei; Xiao, Wen
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: Not available
  • Effects of provisioning on the activity budget and foraging strategies of black-and-white snub-nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus bieti) in the Baima Snow Mountain Nature Reserve, Yunnan, China

    • Authors: Li, Hong-Bo; Sun, Jing; Li, Lun-Hong; Zhou, Ying; Fang, Xue-Lan; Li, Bo-Yan; Guo, Long-Jie; Geng, Ying; Wang, Chun-Ping; Huang, Zhi-Pang et al.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: Not available
  • Stepping Stone Strategy: A Cost-Effective Way to Address Habitat Fragmentation of Endangered Wildlife in Montane Forest

    • Authors: Wang, Haohan; Gao, Ying; Li, Yanpeng; Li, Na; Grueter, Cyril C.; Xu, Huiming; Huang, Zhipang; Cui, Liangwei; Xiao, Wen
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: Not available
  • Ontogenetic Development of Sexual Dimorphism in Body Mass of Wild Black-and-White Snub-Nosed Monkey (Rhinopithecus bieti)

    • Authors: Yan-Peng Li; Huang Zhi-Pang; Yin Yang; Xiao-Bin He; Ru-Liang Pan; Xin-Ming He; Gui-Wei Yang; Hua Wu; Liangwei Cui; Wen Xiao
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: Not available
  • Southwest China, the last refuge of continental primates in East Asia

    • Authors: Zhang, He; Lu, Jiqi; Tang, Shiyi; Huang, Zhipang; Cui, Liangwei; Lan, Daoying; Wang, Haitao; Hou, Rong; Xiao, Wen; Guo, Songtao et al.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: Not available

🔚 Conclusion

Dr. Liang-Wei Cui’s research has significantly contributed to the field of primate conservation and biodiversity monitoring. His work on habitat fragmentation, primate ecology, and wildlife protection has influenced conservation policies and strategies in China and beyond. As a dedicated researcher and professor, he continues to mentor young scientists and lead conservation efforts for endangered species. 🌍

Ahmed Ehab Abdelsalam | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ahmed Ehab Abdelsalam | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Digital Creativity & User Experience | School of Design and Creative Arts, Loughborough University |United Kingdom

Dr. Ahmed Ehab Abdelsalam is a visionary academic and professional specializing in Digital Architecture, Digital Creativity, and User Experience Design within Extended Realities. Currently serving as a Post-Doctoral Research Associate at Loughborough University, Dr. Abdelsalam is dedicated to advancing sustainable and interactive urban designs. His multidisciplinary expertise spans teaching, research, and industry collaboration, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to reimagine education and urban landscapes.

Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards

  1. Expertise and Innovation in Digital Architecture and Extended Reality:
    • Dr. Ahmed Ehab Abdelsalam has substantial expertise in digital architecture, sustainable urban design, and extended reality. His work in interactive VR co-design techniques and digital twins is pioneering in enhancing user engagement and urban development.
  2. Extensive Academic and Professional Experience:
    • Over a decade of experience in academia and practice, ranging from teaching design communication to leading innovative research labs at prestigious universities such as Loughborough University and the University of Nottingham.
  3. Significant Research Contributions:
    • Authored several high-impact publications in fields like sustainable architecture, VR-mediated co-design, and urban resilience. His studies offer practical and theoretical advancements, making significant contributions to urban design and digital creativity.
  4. Recognized Excellence:
    • Recipient of multiple academic and professional awards, including the University of Loughborough Teaching Best Practice Award (2024) and endorsement by the Royal Academy of Engineering for the Global Talent Visa. These accolades underline his ability to innovate and excel in his field.

Education 🎓

  • PhD in Architecture Design-Social Science (2019–2023)
    Awarded by the University of Nottingham, Dr. Abdelsalam’s doctoral research, “Resilient Design for London’s Elevated Social Spaces”, explored VR co-design techniques to boost public engagement in sustainable urban development.
  • Master of Architecture in Design (2016–2017)
    At the University of Nottingham, he earned a distinction while mastering advanced architectural design and research methods.
  • BSc in Architectural Engineering (2009–2014)
    Graduating with first-class honors from Loughborough University, his projects included a Free Zone Marina in Egypt and a dissertation on community participation, published through the PLEA Conference 2015.

Experience đź’Ľ

  • Post-Doctoral Research Associate, Loughborough University (2023–Present)
    Leading the Digital Creativity Lab and spearheading VR-based education initiatives.
  • Researcher, Derby Urban Sustainable Transition (2022–2024)
    Engaged with stakeholders to integrate VR into urban sustainability projects in Derby.
  • Hourly Paid Lecturer, Nottingham Trent University (2021–2022)
    Delivered design communication modules using advanced tools like Revit and Enscape.
  • Assistant Lecturer, British University in Egypt (2014–2019)
    Guided students through architectural design and organized field trips to historic sites.

Research Interests On Environmental Science 🔬

Dr. Abdelsalam’s research focuses on:

  • Virtual Reality in Urban Design: Developing immersive environments to enhance public engagement.
  • Sustainable Urban Spaces: Merging technology with resilient design.
  • Digital Twins and AI: Exploring how emerging technologies can revolutionize co-design processes.

Awards and Honors 🏆

  • Teaching Best Practice Award 2024, Loughborough University.
  • Global Talent Visa – Exceptional Promise, endorsed by the Royal Academy of Engineering.
  • Faculty of Engineering Research Excellence Scholarship, University of Nottingham.
  • Winner of Human Factors Research Group Showcase Poster Competition 2021.

Publications 📚

  • Enhancing public engagement in architectural design: A comparative analysis of advanced virtual reality approaches in building information modeling and gamification techniques
    • Authors: A Ehab, G Burnett, T Heath
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 27
  • Generative AI for immersive experiences: Integrating text-to-image models in VR-mediated co-design workflows
    • Authors: C Bussell, A Ehab, D Hartle-Ryan, T Kapsalis
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 13
  • Sustainable vertical urbanism as a design approach to change the future of hyper-density cities
    • Authors: AE Abdelsalam
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 13
  • Exploring immersive co-design: Comparing human interaction in real and virtual elevated urban spaces in London
    • Authors: A Ehab, T Heath
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 12
  • Virtual Reality and the Interactive Design of Elevated Public Spaces: Cognitive Experience vs VR Experience
    • Authors: A Ehab, T Heath, G Burnett
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 4
  • Rethinking the Design of Vertical Green Spaces in the Post-pandemic Era: Visitor Behaviour and Real-Life Cognitive Experience at Crossrail Place, London
    • Authors: A Ehab, T Heath
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 2
  • Community participation as a gate to new Egyptian society
    • Authors: I Kenawy, A Ehab
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 2
  • Elevating the public realm: A framework for designing resilient urban green spaces in hyperdense cities
    • Authors: A Ehab, G Burnett, T Heath
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: N/A (new publication)
  • An Exploration of Immersive Virtual Reality as an Empathic Modelling Tool
    • Authors: S Cook, G Burnett, KJ Sung, AE Abdelsalam
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: N/A (new publication)
  • Resilient design for London’s elevated social spaces: Exploring challenges, opportunities, and harnessing interactive virtual reality co-design approaches for community engagement
    • Authors: AE Abdelsalam
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: N/A

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Ahmed Ehab Abdelsalam exemplifies the fusion of academic excellence, innovative research, and impactful teaching. Through his groundbreaking work in digital architecture and urban design, he continues to shape the future of sustainable and interactive environments, inspiring the next generation of architects and designers.