Gholamreza Keyvani Hafshejani | Soil-structure interaction | Best Researcher Award

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Gholamreza Keyvani Hafshejani | Soil-structure interaction | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral student | Islamic Azad University | Iran

Gholamreza Keyvani Hafshejani from the Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord Branch, Iran, has focused research on the seismic response of irregular neighboring structures founded at varying embedment depths with an emphasis on soil-structure interaction. His study, published in Structures (2025), explores how differences in foundation embedment and structural irregularities affect seismic performance, a critical issue in earthquake engineering and urban structural design. The research integrates analytical and numerical simulations to assess how differential soil behavior influences dynamic responses, including displacement, inter-story drift, and base shear, under seismic excitation. Keyvani Hafshejani’s work provides valuable insights into the interaction between soil layers and structural foundations, emphasizing the importance of considering soil-structure coupling effects when designing earthquake-resistant buildings. The research outcomes serve as an important reference for engineers and researchers seeking to enhance safety and resilience in infrastructure exposed to seismic hazards. His contributions contribute to the advancement of structural engineering knowledge by offering a framework to improve design codes and develop adaptive mitigation strategies for complex urban environments. This integrated approach ensures optimized seismic performance, minimizing structural vulnerabilities while promoting sustainable urban development.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar
Fearuted Publications:

  • Hafshejani, G. K., Dehkordi, P. F., & Ghaderi, R. (2025). Seismic response of neighboring irregular structures seated at different embedment depths considering soil-structure interaction. Structures, 78, 109298.

  • Keyvanihafshejani, G. (2021). Shahrekord earthquake risk assessment by neuro-fuzzy way method using seismic evaluation of structures. Amirkabir Journal of Civil Engineering, 53(1), 297–312.

Hadi Abdolazimi | Risk and Resilience Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Hadi Abdolazimi | Risk and Resilience Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Department of Remote Sensing and GIS | Shiraz Azad University | Iran

Hadi Abdolazimi’s research and professional endeavors are deeply rooted in the fields of Remote Sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Environmental Management, and Urban Planning. His academic and applied research focuses on the integration of spatial analysis, satellite imagery interpretation, and advanced decision-making algorithms such as AHP, FUZZY-AHP, TOPSIS, VIKOR, and ELECTRE to solve real-world urban and environmental challenges. He has extensively contributed to the study of land surface displacement through SBAS-InSAR time-series and GIS methods, particularly in urban areas like Shiraz. His works address key environmental issues such as flood risk resilience, post-earthquake emergency planning, and urban temperature dynamics in response to land-use changes. Hadi Abdolazimi has also conducted significant studies on wetland monitoring using Google Earth Engine, hospital and waste management site selection, and the relationship between urban green space and environmental sustainability. His collaborations with municipal and provincial organizations highlight his applied expertise in crisis management, environmental assessment, and ecosystem management. He has served as a consultant for Shiraz Municipality and Fars Province Environmental Organization, providing practical solutions for sustainable development and environmental protection. His research further extends into soil science, including salinity evaluation, morphometric tectonic analysis, and microbial diversity studies related to soil health and pollutant degradation. Additionally, Hadi Abdolazimi has contributed to academic development by translating the book “Remote Sensing of Soil Salinization” and organizing specialized training workshops in GIS and remote sensing. His publications reflect interdisciplinary excellence in linking geospatial technologies with environmental and urban resilience planning.

Profile: Google Scholar
Fearuted Publications:

Antoni Mir Pons | Material Science and Engineering | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Antoni Mir Pons | Material Science and Engineering | Young Scientist Award

PhD | University of the Balearic Islands | Spain

Mr. Antoni Mir Pons develops research in the field of civil and structural engineering, with a particular focus on the study and application of iron-based shape memory alloys (Fe-SMA) for strengthening existing reinforced concrete structures. His scientific contributions reflect an advanced understanding of materials behavior under semi-cyclic loads and their influence on recovery stresses, which is essential for improving the resilience and sustainability of infrastructures. Currently engaged at the University of the Balearic Islands within the UIB Construct research group, Antoni’s work explores the mechanical performance and practical integration of Fe-SMA as an innovative reinforcement technology. He has presented significant findings at leading international conferences such as the fib PhD Symposium in Civil Engineering and the SMAR Conference in Italy, contributing to global knowledge on structural rehabilitation using smart materials. His previous collaborations with the AMADE group at the University of Girona involved theoretical and experimental studies on reinforced concrete structures strengthened with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) laminates, evaluating cracking behavior and proposing refinements to Eurocode and fib Model Code formulations. Antoni’s research also integrates climate resilience aspects, as seen in his participation in projects such as RESTART, focused on mitigating deterioration risks in existing concrete infrastructures under changing environmental conditions. Awarded for his outstanding Master’s Thesis on Fe-SMA reinforcement technology, Antoni continues to bridge experimental engineering with sustainable innovation, contributing to the evolution of active reinforcement systems that reduce environmental impact and extend the lifespan of civil structures. His ongoing doctoral research deepens this line of inquiry, enhancing the understanding of semi-cyclic load effects and establishing a strong foundation for future advancements in structural engineering.

Profile: Scopus
Fearuted Publications:

Experimental study on recovery stress losses in Fe-SMA rebars under semi-cyclic loads considering different activation temperatures and multiple activations. (2025). Construction and Building Materials.

Muhammad Nizar Askour | Construction Management | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Muhammad Nizar Askour | Construction Management | Best Researcher Award

Alumni | Syrian Virtual University | Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Mr. Muhammad Nizar Askour is an accomplished architect and construction professional whose expertise bridges Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology, architectural design, and project management. His professional background includes leadership roles in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) across organizations such as Aya Congo Construction, Niqat Global, and the Syrian Engineers Syndicate, where he has contributed to large-scale design, coordination, and construction projects. Muhammad’s research and practical interests emphasize integrating BIM with agile project management, sustainability, and digital transformation in construction, as evidenced by his publication “The impact of using agile on managing construction projects in BIM environment” in Architecture, Structures and Construction (Springer). His technical mastery encompasses architectural and structural modeling, 4D–6D simulations, and data-driven decision-making for cost, time, and risk management. Muhammad’s professional certifications, including PMP®, PMI-PBA®, and P3O®, alongside ongoing PMI-CP™ training, reflect a strong commitment to strategic project delivery and operational excellence. His engagement in volunteer and development programs such as the Aga Khan Foundation and UNICEF highlights his dedication to community-based architectural and infrastructure initiatives. Through conferences like Build Tech World and continuous professional development in AI-driven project management, sustainability, and predictive analytics, Muhammad contributes to advancing smart construction practices in the global AEC sector. His innovative approach integrates BIM automation, collaboration, and business administration principles to optimize design-to-delivery workflows. 1 Citation, 1 Document, 1 h-index.

Profile: Google Scholar
Fearuted Publications:

Askour, M. N., & Al Quosi, A. O. (2025). The impact of using agile on managing construction projects in BIM environment. Architecture, Structures and Construction, 5(2), 1–4.

Nesrine Roumieh | Risk Construction Management | Women Researcher Award

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Mrs. Nesrine Roumieh | Risk Construction Management | Women Researcher Award

Project Manager – High-Rise Construction | Aya Congo Construction | Congo, Democratic Republic of the congo

Mrs. Nesrine Roumieh is an accomplished Project Manager and Certified PMP Trainer with over twelve years of expertise in construction, infrastructure, and process optimization. Her research and professional pursuits focus on advancing project and risk management strategies, high-rise construction methods, and agile-based performance enhancement within multidisciplinary environments. Nesrine has led numerous large-scale construction initiatives, integrating risk assessment frameworks, quality assurance, and cost control systems that align with international standards. Her interest extends to improving industrial efficiency and innovation in civil engineering, emphasizing sustainable practices and modern management methodologies. Through her leadership roles, she has contributed to the optimization of resource allocation, stakeholder communication, and schedule performance in high-value projects. As Head of the Civil Research Unit at Tartous Cement Co., Nesrine directed several studies that explored the improvement of construction materials and techniques, collaborating with research institutions to implement practical solutions for infrastructure resilience. In addition to her managerial expertise, she is deeply engaged in academic and professional training, delivering workshops and mentoring professionals in project management, agile systems, and risk analysis across technical institutions. Her certifications from the Project Management Institute, including PMP, PMI-RMP, and PMI-ACP, highlight her commitment to excellence in project governance and continuous professional growth. Nesrine’s research orientation bridges the gap between engineering innovation and strategic project execution, ensuring that theoretical knowledge is translated into measurable industrial outcomes. Her multilingual capabilities further support her international collaborations in engineering and management. Citation 14, h-index 1, i10-index 1.

Profile: Google Scholar 
Fearuted Publications:

Laila Taoufiq | Earthquake Engineering | Women Researcher Award

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Laila Taoufiq | Earthquake Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Teacher Researcher | Polytechnic School of Agadir | Morocco

Laila Taoufiq is a researcher and academic specializing in materials science and civil engineering, with significant contributions to sustainable construction and structural analysis. Her work focuses on the valorization of industrial waste materials, particularly coal fly ash and bottom ash, in concrete manufacturing to promote environmental sustainability. Through her research, Laila explores mechanical performance, radiological safety, and environmental impact of alternative construction materials, exemplified in her publications on recycling coal ashes and assessing radiological aspects of wastewater treatment processes. She also studies structural failures, as highlighted in her 2025 paper analyzing reinforced concrete buildings affected by the Al Haouz earthquake in Morocco. Her research further extends to evaluating indoor air quality and exposure to natural radioactivity in buildings, addressing both environmental health and structural integrity. As a faculty member at the École Polytechnique d’Agadir, Laila teaches advanced civil engineering subjects such as reinforced and prestressed concrete, structural mechanics, and modeling of metallic and concrete structures. Her teaching integrates theoretical understanding with practical experimentation, involving structural modeling tools like Robot Structural Analysis. The combination of her academic and professional pursuits demonstrates a strong interdisciplinary approach linking materials science, civil engineering, and environmental risk assessment. Her doctoral research at the University Chouaib Doukkali centered on the technical and environmental feasibility of reusing industrial ashes in construction materials, setting a foundation for her ongoing studies in sustainable material applications. Laila’s publications in renowned journals such as Elsevier’s Structures and the Journal of Materials and Environmental Sciences underscore her impact in advancing eco-efficient construction solutions. Citation and index are provided within this research portfolio

Profile: Scopus
Fearuted Publications:

Structural failure of reinforced concrete buildings: The case of Al Haouz earthquake on 8 September 2023, Morocco. (2025). Structures.

Toshiaki Koike-Akino | Environmental Modeling | Best Researcher Award

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Toshiaki Koike-Akino | Environmental Modeling | Best Researcher Award

Distinguished Research Scientist | Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories | United States

Toshiaki Koike-Akino is a distinguished research scientist at Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories whose extensive work bridges quantum computing, artificial intelligence, optical communication, and information theory. His research encompasses quantum machine learning, quantum algorithms, and quantum information systems, with applications extending to intelligent sensing, signal processing, and secure communication networks. He has made notable contributions to the development of low-power electronic design automation, FPGA systems, and mixed reality technologies such as virtual and augmented reality for robotic manipulation. In the domain of optical communications, his studies on coded modulation, equalization, and error correction codes have significantly enhanced high-speed data transmission efficiency and reliability. Koike-Akino’s pioneering efforts in photonic integrated circuits, nano-photonic devices, and meta-surface designs demonstrate his expertise in inverse design through deep learning and optimization algorithms. His work in optical sensing, including quantum and bio-sensing, has advanced methods for high-resolution imaging and tomography. Furthermore, his research in information theory and network coding has contributed to improving network capacity, secrecy, and cooperative communication systems. Across his career, Koike-Akino has authored more than 60 journal papers and over 230 conference publications, many of which are award-winning or invited works, reflecting a strong international reputation in interdisciplinary research that integrates quantum technology, AI, and photonics for next-generation communication and computing systems.

Profile: Google Scholar
Fearuted Publications:

Koike-Akino, T., Popovski, P., & Tarokh, V. (2009). Optimized constellations for two-way wireless relaying with physical network coding. IEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications, 27(5), 773–787.

Tahersima, M. H., Kojima, K., Koike-Akino, T., Jha, D., Wang, B., & Lin, C. (2019). Deep neural network inverse design of integrated photonic power splitters. Scientific Reports, 9(1), 1368.

Kumar, A., Marks, T. K., Mou, W., Wang, Y., Jones, M., Cherian, A., Koike-Akino, T., Liu, X., & Feng, J. (2020). LUVLi face alignment: Estimating landmarks' location, uncertainty, and visibility likelihood. In Proceedings of the IEEE/CVF Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (CVPR) (pp. 8236–8246).

Millar, D. S., Koike-Akino, T., Arık, S. Ö., Kojima, K., Parsons, K., Yoshida, T., Suzuki, M., & Sugihara, T. (2014). High-dimensional modulation for coherent optical communications systems. Optics Express, 22(7), 8798–8812.

Fehenberger, T., Millar, D. S., Koike-Akino, T., Kojima, K., & Parsons, K. (2019). Multiset-partition distribution matching. IEEE Transactions on Communications, 67(3), 1885–1893.

Millar, D. S., Maher, R., Lavery, D., Koike-Akino, T., Pajovic, M., Alvarado, A., & Bayvel, P. (2016). Design of a 1 Tb/s superchannel coherent receiver. Journal of Lightwave Technology, 34(6), 1453–1463.

Md Aynul Hoque | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

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Md Aynul Hoque | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | UCSI University Bangladesh Branch Campus | Bangladesh

Md Aynul Hoque’s research focuses on advancing knowledge in operations management, innovation ecosystems, and sustainable supply chain systems, particularly within the context of the apparel and manufacturing industries. His academic contributions highlight the intersections of Industry 4.0, digital transformation, and value chain optimization, emphasizing how technological adoption can enhance competitiveness and sustainability. A significant part of his work examines automation, job displacement, and reshoring within the Bangladeshi ready-made garments (RMG) industry, identifying strategies for resilience and adaptability in global markets. Hoque has extensively explored system dynamics modeling for supply chain performance, demonstrating how analytical frameworks can improve operational efficiency and reduce risks across industrial processes. His research also delves into occupational safety, knowledge economy development, and export diversification, aligning with broader goals of private sector growth and economic modernization. Publications in reputed Scopus and Web of Science–indexed journals such as the Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management and Research Journal of Textile and Apparel reflect a strong scholarly foundation and global relevance. Through his interdisciplinary approach, Hoque bridges theory and practice by integrating quantitative analysis, strategic management, and sustainability principles. His academic engagements further extend into curriculum design, quality assurance in higher education, and professional training initiatives aimed at improving teaching quality and research productivity. By combining corporate experience in supply chain, project coordination, and quality management with academic expertise, Md Aynul Hoque contributes to the development of efficient, technology-driven, and environmentally responsible business models that foster innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth across emerging economies.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar
Fearuted Publications:

Hoque, M. A., Rasiah, R., Furuoka, F., & Kumar, S. (2021). Technology adoption in the apparel industry: Insight from literature review and research directions. Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, 25(3), 292–307.

Hoque, M. A., Rasiah, R., Furuoka, F., & Kumar, S. (2023). Critical determinants and firm performance of sustainable technology adoption in the apparel industry: The stakeholder approach. Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management: An International Journal, 27(1),

Asgari, B., & Hoque, M. A. (2013). A system dynamics approach to supply chain performance analysis of the ready-made-garment industry in Bangladesh. Ritsumeikan Journal of Asia Pacific Studies, 32(1), 51–61.

Md Aynul Hoque, S. K., Rasiah, R., & Furuoka, F. (2021). Linkages among automation, job displacement and reshoring: Evidence from the Bangladeshi apparel industry. Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, 1–17.

Alam, S., Chowdhury, S. R., Bashar, A., & Hoque, M. A. (2020). Factors affecting occupational injury and death: Insights from ready-made garments industry of Bangladesh. TEST Engineering and Management, [ISSN 193-4120],

Fatemeh Fathi | Risk management | Best Researcher Award

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Fatemeh Fathi | Risk management | Best Researcher Award

associate professor of Agricultural economics | Shiraz University | Iran

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fatemeh Fathi, an Associate Professor in Agricultural Economics at Shiraz University, focuses her research on sustainable agricultural systems, environmental economics, and the optimization of resource management under uncertainty. Her work integrates economic and environmental dimensions to address challenges in energy policy, climate change adaptation, and food security. She has contributed to studies examining the relationship between energy consumption, carbon emissions, and income in Iran, highlighting how economic structures impact environmental sustainability. Her research explores the effects of economic risk management on agricultural productivity, such as sugar beet production under varying irrigation regimes, and evaluates strategies for water resource management in watershed systems affected by climate change. Fatemeh Fathi’s investigations into the Iranian meat market provide insights into the consequences of energy subsidy reforms and their implications for food security and environmental sustainability. Using advanced analytical tools such as game theory and portfolio theory, she develops models for managing environmental and financial risks in agricultural sectors, with applications in seed maize and wheat production. Her scholarly contributions extend to international collaborations and conferences addressing the integration of environmental and economic strategies in agricultural development. She co-authored a book chapter on policy frameworks for climate-smart agriculture, emphasizing adaptive strategies for sustainable farming practices. Through her comprehensive research, Fatemeh Fathi contributes to shaping policy and management approaches that balance economic growth with environmental preservation, fostering a resilient agricultural economy capable of withstanding future climate and market uncertainties.

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Fearuted Publications:

Maria Macchiaroli | Water Resources Engineering | Women Researcher Award

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Maria Macchiaroli | Water Resources Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | University of Salerno | Italy

Maria Macchiaroli, affiliated with the University of Salerno in Italy, has established a distinguished research profile in the field of sustainable construction, environmental management, and socio-economic development related to the built environment. Her research explores the intersection of engineering, architecture, and sustainability, emphasizing how innovative technologies and design strategies can enhance resource efficiency and urban livability. Through publications addressing extended reality (XR) in real estate, economic-financial project management, and the promotion of socio-environmental sustainability by water utilities, Maria contributes to advancing the integration of digital innovation and sustainability in urban systems. Her scholarly work demonstrates a commitment to optimizing infrastructure performance while minimizing environmental impacts, combining quantitative analysis with socio-economic assessment to inform policy and practice. She also investigates cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency in housing and public utilities, highlighting the importance of sustainable urban planning and responsible management of water and energy resources. With 39 documents, 324 citations, and an h-index of 13, her research continues to influence both academia and industry, reinforcing her role as a key figure in sustainable development studies. By bridging environmental engineering principles with social responsibility, Maria Macchiaroli’s research provides valuable frameworks for sustainable resource allocation, eco-efficient urban management, and resilience in built environments, aligning with global goals for smart and sustainable cities.

Profile: Scopus
Fearuted Publications:

Living in university accommodations or rented houses: Analysis of differences in terms of cost and effects on university career. (n.d.). Book chapter.

Extended reality (XR) impacts on real estate market and economic-financial project management of residential built environments: Systematic review and analysis. (2025). Smart and Sustainable Built Environment.

Promotion of socio-environmental sustainability by water utilities: Optimal budget's estimation and results' analysis of varying company size. (n.d.). Conference paper.