Fuat Aras | Structural Engineering | Research Excellence in Civil and Environmental Engineering Award

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Prof. Fuat Aras | Structural Engineering | Research Excellence in Civil and Environmental Engineering Award

Istanbul Medeniyet University | Turkey

Prof. Fuat Aras is a distinguished civil engineer whose academic and research trajectory demonstrates substantial contributions to structural dynamics, earthquake engineering, and the protection of historical and modern infrastructures. With extensive experience as Professor in the Civil Engineering Department at Istanbul Medeniyet University, he has built a strong research portfolio grounded in experimental and numerical analyses of reinforced concrete and masonry structures, dynamic characterization, structural health monitoring, and seismic retrofitting. His scholarly accomplishments include numerous SCI/SCIE-indexed journal publications, books, and international conference papers, reflecting a consistent commitment to advancing global knowledge in earthquake-resistant design and the preservation of cultural heritage structures. Prof. Aras has coordinated several national research projects funded by TUBITAK, focusing on innovative technologies for improving building performance, dynamic behavior evaluation, and damage assessment, while also contributing to major European Union–supported initiatives on seismic protection. He has supervised multiple graduate theses on structural monitoring, retrofitting strategies, and seismic performance, indicating strong mentorship and academic leadership. His long-standing collaborations with national and international institutions, including partnerships with researchers in Türkiye, Europe, and the United States, highlight his interdisciplinary and global impact. In addition to his research excellence, he has held key administrative roles such as department chair and vice dean, strengthening institutional development and academic governance. His body of work has supported safer community infrastructures by providing evidence-based insights into building behavior, seismic vulnerabilities, and preservation strategies, thereby contributing significantly to societal resilience. With extensive teaching experience in core structural engineering courses and expertise in advanced analytical tools, Prof. Aras continues to shape the next generation of engineers while expanding research frontiers in structural dynamics and earthquake engineering, positioning him as a highly influential figure with strong future potential for further impact in his field.

Profile: Google Scholar | ORCID
Publications

Aras, F., Krstevska, L., Altay, G., & Tashkov, L. (2011). Experimental and numerical modal analyses of a historical masonry palace. Construction and Building Materials, 25(1), 81–91.

Namli, M., & Aras, F. (2020). Investigation of effects of dynamic loads in metro tunnels during construction and operation on existing buildings. Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 13(11), 424.

Aras, F., & Altay, G. (2015). Investigation of mechanical properties of masonry in historic buildings. Građevinar, 67(5),

Aras, F., & Altay, G. (2015). Seismic evaluation and structural control of the historical Beylerbeyi Palace. Structural Control and Health Monitoring, 22(2), 347–364.

Aras, F., & Düzci, E. (2018). Seismic performance of traditional stone masonry dwellings under Çanakkale seismic sequences. Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities, 32(4), 04018029.

Ahmad Nassef | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmad Nassef | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor | University of Buraimi | Oman

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmad Salah Edeen Nassef is an accomplished Associate Professor of Structural Engineering at Helwan University, Egypt, and the University of Buraimi, Oman, where he also served as Acting Dean and Assistant Dean of the College of Engineering. With over two decades of academic and professional experience, his expertise spans structural analysis, reinforced concrete and steel design, nonlinear structural behavior, and sustainability in construction materials. He earned his Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Structural Engineering from Cairo University and a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from Helwan University. Dr. Nassef has authored numerous publications in international journals and conferences, covering topics such as buckling of columns, nonlinear damage mechanics, composite structures, and eco-friendly concrete using palm tree and medical waste materials. His research contributions, reflected in a growing citation record, demonstrate his global engagement and innovation in sustainable structural systems. He has led and mentored multiple funded research projects supported by institutions such as the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation (MOHERI) of Oman and Najran University, addressing practical engineering challenges and advancing materials recycling and durability enhancement. Beyond research, Dr. Nassef has been deeply involved in academic leadership, serving as Chair of Research and Ethics Committees, ABET and OAAA accreditation coordinator, and quality assurance leader for civil engineering programs. His scholarly excellence has been recognized with multiple awards, including the University of Buraimi’s Scholarship and Teaching Excellence Awards (2022, 2023) and Best Student Research Paper Awards at national symposiums. His extensive collaborations and mentorship have significantly contributed to capacity building and research culture in the Middle East. Through his sustained efforts in integrating innovation, sustainability, and quality education, Dr. Nassef continues to make a notable global impact in civil and structural engineering research and higher education.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar
Publications:

Nassef, A. S. E. (2015). Fibonacci sequence and golden ratio in new formula of predicting cracks propagation in reinforced concrete tie. International Journal of Damage Mechanics, 24(8), 1214–1226. 
(Cited by: 5)

Nassef, A. S. E., & Dahim, M. A. (2016). New bi-modular material approach to buckling problem of reinforced concrete columns. [Journal name unavailable]. (Cited by: 6)

Nassef, A. S. E., Nassar, M. M., & El-Refaee, M. M. (2019). Dynamic response of Timoshenko beam resting on nonlinear Pasternak foundation carrying sprung masses. Iranian Journal of Science and Technology, Transactions of Mechanical Engineering. 
(Cited by: 9)

Nassef, A. S. E., Al-Maqbali, K. H., & Al Naqabi, S. M. (2021). Effects of replacing cement by date palm trees wastes on concrete performance. Proceedings of the International Structural Engineering and Construction, 8(1). 
(Cited by: 5)

Nassef, A. (2022). Non-prismatic model for laterally loaded pile in granular soil resisted by ultimate lateral reaction. International Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 16(4), 400–407. 
(Cited by: 4)

Poloju Kiran Kumar | Structural Engineering | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Dr. Poloju Kiran Kumar | Structural Engineering | Best Academic Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer | Middle East College | Oman

Dr. Poloju Kiran Kumar is a distinguished researcher and academician in civil and environmental engineering, presently serving as Senior Lecturer at Middle East College, Muscat, Oman, and Committee Member of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), Oman region. With over thirteen years of academic and research experience, his expertise encompasses structural engineering, sustainable construction materials, and advanced geopolymer concrete technology. Dr. Kiran has authored more than 80 research papers in Web of Science and Scopus-indexed journals and contributed eight book chapters published by Springer, Taylor & Francis, and Nova Publishers. His research achievements include five patents in India and Oman focusing on innovative sustainable concrete materials and artificial intelligence applications in structural performance analysis. He has successfully completed four externally funded research projects worth 16,000 OMR from The Research Council of Oman and leads collaborative projects with Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia. His scholarly influence is reflected through over 250 Google Scholar citations with an h-index of 12. Dr. Kiran’s academic leadership is evident in his role in program accreditation, quality assurance, and development of modern teaching pedagogies integrating digital tools. His commitment to sustainable construction and community engagement has earned multiple accolades, including four Best Academic Staff Awards, the INSO Young Scientist Award (2022), and recognition as ICE Oman’s Committee Member (2025). A Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK), Dr. Kiran has delivered numerous keynote lectures and workshops across Oman, India, and beyond on geopolymer concrete, sustainable infrastructure, and pedagogical innovation. His research contributes significantly to the advancement of low-carbon construction technologies, enhancing environmental resilience and promoting sustainable development in alignment with global engineering goals.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar
Publications:

Poloju, R. K. M. K., & Anil, V. (2017). Properties of concrete as influenced by shape and texture of fine aggregate. American Journal of Applied Scientific Research, 3(3), 28–36.
(Cited by: 22)

Poloju, K. K., & Srinivasu, K. (2021). Impact of GGBS and strength ratio on mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete under ambient curing and oven curing. Materials Today: Proceedings, 42, 962–968. 
(Cited by: 60)

Rollakanti, C. R., Prasad, C. V. S. R., Poloju, K. K., Al Muharbi, N. M. J., & Arun, Y. V. (2021). An experimental investigation on mechanical properties of concrete by partial replacement of cement with wood ash and fine sea shell powder. Materials Today: Proceedings, 43, 1325–1330. 
(Cited by: 56)

Poloju, V. R. K. K., & Naidu, [First initial unavailable]. (2022). New method of data collection using the Kobo Toolbox. Journal of Positive School Psychology, 1527–1535.
(Cited by: 39)

Al Abri, S. A. S., Rollakanti, C. R., Poloju, K. K., & Joe, A. (2022). Experimental study on mechanical properties of concrete by partial replacement of cement with eggshell powder for sustainable construction. Materials Today: Proceedings, 65, 1660–1665. 
(Cited by: 25)

Changbai Wang | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Changbai Wang | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Vice-Dean | Anhui University of Science and Technology | China

Dr. Changbai Wang, affiliated with Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, China, is a distinguished researcher recognized for his significant contributions to the field of construction materials and sustainable concrete technologies. With a robust publication record of 20 scholarly documents, his research has achieved over 343 citations across 326 documents, reflecting a notable h-index of 10, underscoring the consistent quality and influence of his academic work. Dr. Wang’s research primarily focuses on high-performance concrete (HPC), internal curing mechanisms, and the innovative utilization of industrial by-products, particularly coal gangue aggregates, to enhance the sustainability and performance of civil engineering materials. His recent works, such as studies on pore-regulated coal aggregates and self-compacting tunnel concrete, demonstrate his commitment to advancing environmentally responsible construction practices. Collaborating with over 40 co-authors, he has fostered interdisciplinary partnerships that bridge material science, civil engineering, and environmental sustainability. Through his extensive research collaborations, Dr. Wang contributes to the global discourse on low-carbon construction, emphasizing circular economy principles and resource optimization in infrastructure development. His scholarly influence extends beyond academia, as his findings have practical implications for industries aiming to reduce ecological footprints while maintaining material performance. The societal impact of his work lies in promoting sustainable material innovation aligned with modern infrastructure needs. With ongoing projects and emerging studies in high-performance concrete applications, Dr. Wang demonstrates strong potential for further breakthroughs in green construction materials and structural durability research. His academic trajectory and commitment to addressing global environmental challenges position him as a key contributor to the future of sustainable construction and materials engineering.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID
Featured Publications:

  • Updated internal curing for HPC using pore-regulated coal aggregates. Case Studies in Construction Materials.

  • Internal curing for tunnel self-compacting concrete using pre-soaked coal gangue: A promising way for spot utilization of coal gangue. Iranian Journal of Science and Technology Transactions of Civil Engineering.

Yaoqing Gong – Structural Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering Awards

Yaoqing Gong - Structural Engineering - Best Researcher Award

Henan Polytechnic University - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS
ORCID

SUMMARY

Yaoqing Gong is a distinguished academic in civil and structural engineering, currently serving as Chair Professor at Henan Polytechnic University. With over four decades of teaching, research, and engineering practice, the expertise encompasses semi-analytical structural analysis, finite element modeling, and torsional analysis of complex structures. Editorial roles, committee memberships, and national-level research projects illustrate a strong reputation in academia. Recognized by leading institutions in China, including the Ministry of Education and National Natural Science Foundation, the work influences tall building mechanics and computational analysis. Extensive publications and involvement in conference proceedings highlight an active presence in both theoretical and applied engineering domains.

EDUCATION

Completed a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at Tsinghua University, renowned for engineering excellence. Previously earned a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Huazhong University of Science and Technology and a Bachelor’s degree from Ningxia University. The academic progression reflects a deep foundation in engineering sciences, transitioning from mechanical to civil specializations. The multidisciplinary training has significantly shaped advanced research contributions in structural mechanics, particularly in analyzing super-tall buildings and complex beam structures. The educational journey through top-tier Chinese institutions has laid the groundwork for a highly productive academic and research career across decades in civil infrastructure development and modeling.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Began academic career as Assistant Lecturer at Ningxia University, progressing through Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Professor roles from 1981 to 2001. Since 2001, appointed as Chair Professor at Henan Polytechnic University, leading major initiatives in structural engineering. Held several key academic responsibilities, contributing to curriculum design and research mentorship. A strong connection with national academic bodies such as the Ministry of Education and NSF of China has ensured relevance and impact in teaching and applied research. Professional duties have also extended to evaluating high-level research proposals and participating in national engineering education committees, reflecting trust and leadership in the field.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Core research interests include semi-analytical methods for analyzing dynamic loads on super-tall buildings and long-span bridges, torsional behavior of noncircular beam sections, and structural interactions with elastic subgrades. Work is heavily focused on theoretical mechanics, generalized-area-coordinate systems, and conforming finite element formulations. Special emphasis is placed on dynamic load modeling and the interaction between foundation and superstructures, particularly under spatial or multi-directional loading. Research bridges practical civil infrastructure challenges with computational mechanics innovation, advancing knowledge in constrained torsion and spatial vibration of complex geometries. Integration of analytical theory and real-world applications characterizes all research endeavors and academic outputs.

AWARD AND HONOR

Honored with roles that reflect academic prestige, including Editorial Board Membership in the Journal of Engineering Mechanics (Chinese) and Committee Member of the Mechanics Instruction Committee, Ministry of Education, China. Selected as a referee for high-impact national research proposals under the Department of Engineering & Material Science, NSF of China. Contributions to national research projects and leadership in university-affiliated foundations also serve as testimony to recognition by peers. The ability to influence educational and research standards at national levels is a distinguishing achievement. These roles underscore trust, influence, and merit across China’s academic and engineering science communities.

RESEARCH SKILL

Expert in developing semi-analytical and finite element models for structural analysis under dynamic and complex boundary conditions. Advanced in formulating generalized conforming finite elements and utilizing generalized-area-coordinate systems. Skilled in solving torsional behavior for constrained, variable thickness beams with arbitrary noncircular shapes. Familiar with both theoretical development and application to large-scale infrastructure such as super-tall buildings and bridges. Possesses hands-on design experience, including work with steel tower structures for astronomical observatories. Capable of integrating analytical theory with field application, contributing both to academia and practical engineering. Strong background in mathematical modeling, ODE solvers, and high-performance structural analysis.

PUBLICATIONS TOP NOTED

Published in prestigious journals such as Composite Structures, Engineering Structures, European Journal of Mechanics/A Solids, and MethodsX. Key contributions include innovative constrained torsional analysis, theories for stocky beams with noncircular cross-sections, and finite element formulations for thick plate-shell elements. Authored books like “Structural Mechanics” and “Tall Building Structures on Elastic Subgrade,” which serve as foundational texts in Chinese structural engineering education. Presented work at global conferences including the World Congress on Computational Mechanics. Collaborated with notable researchers on interdisciplinary projects, ensuring international visibility. Research outputs continue to shape methodologies used in modern civil engineering and computational structural mechanics.

Title: Composite stocky box girders of variable thickness in high-support expressways: Constrained torsional analysis
Authors: [Not specified]
Journal: Engineering Structures (2021)

Title: An innovative method for surmounting the constrained torsional problems of stocky beams with arbitrary noncircular cross-sectional shapes and with arbitrary elastic material properties
Authors: [Not specified]
Journal: MethodsX (2021)

Title: The torsional centre position of stocky beams with arbitrary noncircular cross-sectional shapes and with arbitrary elastic material properties
Authors: [Not specified]
Journal: European Journal of Mechanics A: Solids (2021)

CONCLUSION

Yaoqing Gong’s contributions span theoretical development, practical design, high-level academic mentorship, and national-level advisory roles. Strong expertise in civil and structural engineering mechanics is demonstrated through sustained publications, impactful research funding, and leadership roles within Chinese engineering education. The emphasis on semi-analytical methods and computational mechanics provides critical solutions for modern engineering problems such as super-tall structures, complex torsional analysis, and elastic subgrade interaction. Through integration of teaching, research, and applied science, continues to influence both academic frameworks and infrastructure practices. The profile stands as a model of excellence in civil engineering innovation, research integrity, and academic leadership.

Milan Sapieta | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering Awards

 Mr. Milan Sapieta| Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

researcher at UNIZA in Slovakia

Milan Sapieta is a dedicated professional in [specific field, e.g., engineering, technology], recognized for his contributions to [specific areas, e.g., software development, system engineering]. With a strong background in both academic research and practical application, he is committed to advancing technology through innovative solutions. Milan’s work has had a notable impact in [mention relevant industry or sector, e.g., telecommunications, renewable energy].

Professional Profiles:

Strengths for the Award

  • Milan Sapieta stands out as a strong candidate for the Research for Community Impact Award and the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive research contributions and practical applications in engineering and materials science. His work in flange fatigue life calculation, stress analysis of battery containers, and mechanical properties of spur involute gearing demonstrates a commitment to addressing real-world challenges, particularly in areas that impact public safety and infrastructure.His recent publications in high-impact journals, such as Applied Sciences and Materials, further solidify his reputation as a leading researcher. Notably, the article on the design and implementation of a low-cost torque sensor for manipulators highlights his innovative approach to enhancing technological solutions that can benefit various industries, including robotics and automation. The ability to publish in reputable journals indexed in SCOPUS and the Web of Science indicates the significance and quality of his research.Milan’s contributions to studies on load measurement of cervical vertebrae during car travel exemplify his dedication to public health and safety, directly impacting vehicle safety standards and ergonomics. His ability to collaborate with co-authors on multidisciplinary research also illustrates his teamwork and communication skills, essential for impactful research.

Areas for Improvement

  • Despite his impressive achievements, Milan could further enhance his candidacy by increasing his outreach efforts and community engagement related to his research. Developing initiatives to share findings with the public, industry stakeholders, or educational institutions could amplify the societal impact of his work. This could include workshops, seminars, or educational programs aimed at demonstrating the real-world applications of his research in engineering and materials science.Additionally, pursuing interdisciplinary collaborations with professionals from different fields could provide fresh perspectives and enhance the relevance of his research. Engaging with policymakers or industry leaders to translate his findings into practical applications could further elevate his profile for the Research for Community Impact Award

Education:

  • Milan Sapieta holds a Bachelor’s degree in [specific field, e.g., Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline] from [University Name], where he developed foundational skills in [mention core subjects, e.g., circuit design, software development]. He further advanced his education with a Master’s degree in [specific field] from [University Name], focusing on [specific areas of specialization or research, e.g., digital systems, machine learning]. Milan’s academic achievements provided him with a solid grounding in both theoretical knowledge and practical applications in his field.

Professionals Experience:

  • Milan has accumulated over [number] years of experience in [specific field or industry, e.g., technology, engineering, or research]. He currently serves as [current position, e.g., Software Engineer, Research Scientist] at [Company/Institution Name], where he is responsible for [mention specific responsibilities, e.g., developing innovative solutions, leading research projects, or designing new systems]. Previously, he held roles at [mention previous companies or institutions], where he contributed to significant projects involving [mention relevant technologies or processes, e.g., software development, system optimization].

Skills:

  • Milan possesses a diverse skill set, including expertise in [mention specific skills, e.g., programming languages, software tools, system design]. He is proficient in using [specific software or tools, e.g., MATLAB, Python, AutoCAD], and has strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. His collaborative skills and experience in project management enhance his ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Research Focus:

  • Milan’s research interests are primarily focused on [mention key areas, e.g., software engineering, system optimization, machine learning]. He aims to address challenges in [specific challenges, e.g., improving system efficiency, enhancing user experience], and his work seeks to develop innovative solutions that contribute to the advancement of [mention relevant industry or technology, e.g., smart systems, renewable energy]. Through his research, Milan aspires to make meaningful contributions to the ongoing evolution of [specific field or sector].

Publications :

  • “Probabilistic Analysis of Orbital Characteristics of Rotary Systems with Centrally and Off-Center Mounted Unbalanced Disks”
    • Journal: Applied Sciences
    • Publication Date: September 30, 2024
  • “Probabilistic Analysis of Critical Speed Values of a Rotating Machine as a Function of the Change of Dynamic Parameters”
    • Journal: Sensors
    • Publication Date: July 4, 2024
  • “The Impact of Internal Structure Changes on the Damping Properties of 3D-Printed Composite Material”
    • Journal: Applied Sciences
    • Publication Date: June 29, 2024
  • “Design and Implementation of a Low-Cost Torque Sensor for Manipulators”
    • Journal: Applied Sciences
    • Publication Date: August 18, 2023
  • “Investigation of the Mechanical Properties of Spur Involute Gearing by Infrared Thermography”
    • Journal: Applied Sciences
    • Publication Date: May 12, 2023
  • “The Impact of Excitation Periods on the Outcome of Lock-In Thermography”
    • Journal: Materials
    • Publication Date: March 30, 2023

Conclusion:

  • Milan Sapieta is highly suitable for both the Research for Community Impact Award and the Best Researcher Award due to his significant contributions to engineering research and its practical applications. His work not only advances the field of materials science but also directly impacts safety and efficiency in real-world scenarios. By expanding his community outreach and interdisciplinary collaborations, he can further strengthen his influence and enhance the broader impact of his research, making him a formidable candidate for these awards.