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

Xinxin Wang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Xinxin Wang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

North China Electric Power University | China

Xinxin Wang is a driven and innovative PhD candidate at North China Electric Power University, whose work bridges advanced theoretical research with practical engineering solutions. With a strong foundation in machinery and power engineering, he has developed expertise in the design, analysis, and optimization of underground tunneling equipment, particularly Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs). His career reflects a deep commitment to solving complex challenges in rock mechanics and engineering, supported by collaborative efforts with leading experts in China and abroad. His predictive models and design methods have significantly advanced tunneling efficiency, making him a promising leader in his field.

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Education

Xinxin Wang earned a Master’s degree in Machinery and Engineering from Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, followed by doctoral studies in Power Machinery and Engineering at North China Electric Power University. Selected for the prestigious National “Excellent Engineer Program,” he broadened his academic exposure through a joint doctoral program as a visiting scholar at the University of Pisa, Italy. This international engagement allowed him to integrate advanced European engineering practices with domestic innovation, enriching his academic and professional capabilities in tunneling technology and rock-breaking mechanics.

Experience

Xinxin Wang has actively participated in multiple national-level research projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National High Technology Research and Development Program. His contributions extend to the development of proprietary software for calculating rock-breaking forces in TBM disc cutters and the creation of new cutterhead designs capable of handling varied geological conditions. He works closely with industry and academic partners to ensure his research outcomes are implemented in real-world projects, thus enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of large-scale underground excavation.

Research Interest

His research focuses on intelligent control systems and energy efficiency analysis for advanced underground construction equipment, particularly TBMs. He is deeply engaged in studying the collaborative rock-breaking mechanism of disc cutters, developing predictive models for cutter forces and cutterhead torque, and designing innovative solutions to optimize performance in diverse geological settings. Additionally, his expertise spans rock mechanics, structural analysis, and the integration of advanced computational modeling techniques into engineering practice.

Awards

Xinxin Wang has received recognition for his scholarly achievements through competitive doctoral scholarships and honors for academic excellence. His innovative contributions to TBM rock-breaking mechanics, cutterhead design, and excavation efficiency have been widely acknowledged in professional circles. These recognitions underscore his potential to make sustained and transformative contributions to the tunneling and underground engineering sector, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications

Title: Investigation into the Rock-Breaking Forces of TBM Disc Cutters with Diverse Edge Shapes
Journal: Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering
Published on: 2025

Title: Study on the Rock-Breaking Forces of TBM Disc Cutters with Uneven Wear
Journal: Chinese Journal of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics
Published on: 2025

Title: Study on Fatigue Characteristics of High-Pressure Vessel with Multiple Cracks in Stages
Journal: Mechanical Design and Manufacturing
Published on: 2024

Title: Allowable Limit of Crack Defect Zone Evaluation under Expected Life of Ultra-high Pressure Vessel Head
Journal: Thermal Processing Technology
Published on: 2024

Conclusion

By combining theoretical innovation with real-world engineering solutions, Xinxin Wang has made impactful contributions to the science and technology of tunnel boring and underground excavation. His research has not only improved operational efficiency but has also reduced construction costs and enhanced safety in challenging environments. With proven academic excellence, international collaboration experience, and a strong record of published work, he exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated and forward-thinking researcher worthy of the Best Researcher Award.

Umar Farooq | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Umar Farooq | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

National Formosa University | Taiwan

Mr. Umar Farooq, is a passionate and versatile Mechanical Engineer currently based at National Formosa University, Taiwan. With a dynamic portfolio spanning thermal analysis, CFD simulations, and innovative engineering design, he has rapidly gained recognition in both academic and industrial spheres. His multidimensional expertise and international exposure underscore his reputation as a forward-thinking researcher and technologist.

Author Profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards✨

Umar Farooq exemplifies excellence in applied research, particularly in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Heat Transfer, and Smart Manufacturing. With multiple international gold medals and special awards (e.g., American Invention Innovation Expo and Warsaw Invention Show), his contributions have already earned international recognition. His research spans impactful areas such as drug delivery, nanofluid heat transfer, and machine tool precision, showcasing both interdisciplinary knowledge and innovation.

As a first and corresponding author, he has published high-impact journal articles in top-tier publications such as Physics of Fluids, ACS Omega, Journal of Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics, and Journal of the Taiwan Institute of Chemical Engineers — collectively cited by dozens of peer-reviewed articles. These works, coupled with his active role in scientific conferences and collaborations with international faculty, reflect a strong global research presence.

Moreover, his hands-on experience with diverse simulation tools (ANSYS, COMSOL, ABAQUS, DIGIMAT), and his role as a Research Assistant in HEC-funded and international projects, demonstrate his technical mastery and practical impact.

🎓 Education

Umar completed his M.Sc. in Mechanical and Computer-Aided Engineering from National Formosa University, Taiwan, His thesis focused on Thermal Modal Analysis for Thermal Response Prediction, showcasing his aptitude for thermal systems engineering. Earlier, he earned his B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from HITEC University, Taxila, where he worked on a stair lift project using rack & pinion systems for enhanced mobility.

💼 Experience

Umar has accumulated rich research and industry experience, including roles as a Research Assistant at NUST under Dr. Adnan Munir, CFD/FEA Expert at CFD Lab, and English Editing Assistant at National Formosa University. He has interned at renowned organizations like Toyota Motors and PTCL, and contributed to innovative projects in FitTech Co., Ltd., Taiwan. His extensive hands-on involvement in simulation and design tools has fueled a variety of cutting-edge projects and research.

🔍 Research Interests On Engineering

Umar’s research interests span Smart Manufacturing, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and Heat Transfer. He demonstrates proficiency in simulation tools like ANSYS, COMSOL, ABAQUS, SolidWorks, and MATLAB/Simulink. His interdisciplinary research connects theory to practical industrial applications—especially in the domain of thermal management and fluid mechanics.

🏆 Awards

Umar has earned several prestigious accolades, including:
Gold Medal at the American Invention Innovation Expo (USA) for an Environment Monitoring System (2024).
Gold Medal at the International Warsaw Invention Show (Poland).
Special Award from TISIAS, Canada, for innovation in environmental monitoring (2024).
3rd Place – Taiwan Industrial Development Agency Talent Rooting Program (2024).
Best Paper Award – 2024 IEEE 6th Eurasia Conference on IoT, Communication & Engineering for a paper on Thermal Modal Analysis.

📚 Publications

  • CFD analysis of hybrid nanofluid-based microchannel heat sink for electronic chips cooling: applications in nano-energy thermal devices
    Authors: YM Chu, U Farooq, NK Mishra, Z Ahmad, F Zulfiqar, S Yasmin, SA Khan
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 38

  • Thermal transport analysis of six circular microchannel heat sink using nanofluid
    Authors: H Waqas, SA Khan, U Farooq, T Muhammad, A Alshehri, S Yasmin
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 26

  • Computational analysis of natural convection with water based nanofluid in a square cavity with partially active side walls: applications to thermal storage
    Authors: SA Khan, S Yasmin, M Imran, T Muhammad, A Alhushaybari, U Farooq, …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 17

  • Parametric effects on the mixing efficiency of resonant acoustic mixing technology for high-viscosity mixture: A numerical study
    Authors: IU Khan, R Guo, U Farooq, S Adhikari, H Zhou
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 17

  • Computational analysis of MHD MgO− water nanofluid flow inside hexagonal enclosure fitted with fins
    Authors: S Yasmin, SA Khan, N Fatima, M Imran, M Tahir, H Waqas, U Farooq, …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 16

  • Breathing in danger: mapping microplastic migration in the human respiratory system
    Authors: HH Riaz, AH Lodhi, A Munir, M Zhao, U Farooq, M Qadri, MS Islam
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 13

  • Integrating numerical techniques and predictive diagnosis for precision enhancement in roller cam rotary table
    Authors: TC Chan, SC Wu, A Ullah, U Farooq, IH Wang, SL Chang
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 11

  • Recent progress in melting phenomenon for magnetized hybrid nanofluid flow over a stretching surface with temperature dependent viscosity: a comparative study
    Authors: SA Khan, H Waqas, T Muhammad, U Farooq, M Alghamdi
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 11

  • Application of heliox for optimized drug delivery through respiratory tract
    Authors: U Farooq, HH Riaz, A Munir, M Zhao, A Tariq, MS Islam
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 10

  • Improving machining accuracy of complex precision turning-milling machine tools
    Authors: TC Chan, JD Li, U Farooq, A Ullah
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 7

  • Estimation of heat transfer coefficient and friction factor with showering of aluminum nitride and alumina water based hybrid nanofluid in a tube with twisted tape insert
    Authors: W Chammam, U Farooq, M Sediqmal, H Waqas, S Yasmin, F Zulfiqar, …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 7

🧾 Conclusion

Umar Farooq stands as a rising star in mechanical and thermal sciences, blending simulation mastery with a creative approach to complex engineering challenges. His record of international awards, high-impact publications, and collaborative research establishes him as an excellent candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a futuristic mindset, cross-cultural experience, and unwavering dedication, Umar continues to contribute to the global scientific community.

 

Ziqiang Pi | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ziqiang Pi | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ziqiang Pi is a dedicated and innovative Senior Engineer at BGRIMM Technology Group, where he focuses on advanced materials engineering. Since graduating in 2019 from the University of Science and Technology Beijing, he has specialized in alloy powders, thermal spraying, and laser cladding. His contributions have led to breakthroughs in wear-resistant coatings for mining equipment, significantly improving durability and performance.

Professional profile👤

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Technical Expertise and Research Focus:

    • Ziqiang Pi holds a strong academic background in Materials Science and Engineering, which aligns well with his current research.

    • His focused areas—alloy powder, laser cladding, and thermal spraying—are of significant industrial and academic relevance, especially for applications in mining and heavy industries.

  • Industry Impact and Practical Contributions:

    • The development and application of wear-resistant laser cladding coatings for mining equipment, which achieved 250% service life improvement, demonstrate real-world impact.

    • His work bridges the gap between fundamental research and practical application—an essential criterion for research excellence.

  • Research Output and Recognition:

    • Published 10 journal articles (including SCI/Scopus-indexed).

    • Holder of four patents, indicating a strong orientation toward innovation.

    • Led or participated in five major research projects, including national-level grants, suggesting a capacity to secure and manage competitive funding.

  • Professional Advancement:

    • Rapid progression to Senior Engineer by 2021—within two years of graduation—signals high professional competence and recognition by his institution.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Citation Index and Academic Visibility:

    • The citation index is not quantified in the application. Including h-index, total citations, or Google Scholar link would help assess academic influence.

    • No mention of keynote talks, invited lectures, or conference participation, which could enhance visibility in the research community.

  2. Editorial Roles and Collaborations:

    • No current editorial appointments or clear international collaborations are listed. These elements would strengthen his profile by showing leadership and global integration in the research community.

🎓 Education

Ziqiang Pi earned his Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Science and Technology Beijing in July 2019. His education laid a strong foundation in metallurgy and materials innovation, propelling him into a research-driven engineering role at BGRIMM Technology Group.

🛠️ Experience

Since joining BGRIMM Technology Group post-graduation, Ziqiang has steadily risen in ranks, earning the title of Senior Engineer in 2021. He has managed and contributed to multiple national-level research projects funded by prestigious bodies like the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Key R&D Program. His work emphasizes industrial applications of coatings and materials processing. 🔍

🔬 Research Interests On Engineering

Ziqiang’s primary research interests include alloy powders, laser cladding, and thermal spraying. He is especially passionate about functional coatings that enhance the longevity and efficiency of heavy machinery in the mining sector. His innovative research bridges academic knowledge with industrial needs.

🏆 Awards

In recognition of his outstanding research and industrial contributions, Ziqiang Pi was promoted to Senior Engineer in 2021. His work has not only been acknowledged internally but has also garnered attention through national and provincial-level projects, reflecting his excellence and commitment to innovation.

📚 Publications

Ziqiang Pi has published 10 articles in reputable journals. Selected key publications include:

His publications reflect strong engagement with applied research that supports industrial innovation.

🔚 Conclusion

Ziqiang Pi exemplifies the synergy between engineering innovation and practical impact. His pioneering work in developing wear-resistant laser cladding coatings has directly enhanced mining equipment performance and longevity. With a consistent track record in research, publication, and project execution, he stands as a promising candidate for recognition in research excellence awards.