Ashvinie Thembiliyagoda | Water Resources Engineering | Innovative Research Award

Posted on by Civil Engineering Awards

Innovative Research Award

Ashvinie Thembiliyagoda
University of Moratuwa

Ashvinie Thembiliyagoda
Affiliation University of Moratuwa
Country Sri Lanka
Scopus ID 58869897300
Documents 3
Citations 7
h-index 1
Subject Area Water Resources Engineering
Event Global Civil Engineering Awards
ORCID 0009-0009-0233-8949

Ashvinie Thembiliyagoda is a researcher associated with the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Moratuwa whose research interests center on water resources engineering, hydraulic modelling, river processes, and bridge-pier scour. Her published work examines numerical and physical approaches for understanding sediment erosion around bridge structures, with particular attention to two-dimensional HEC-RAS modelling and the interpretation of scour processes in Sri Lankan rivers. Her research portfolio connects hydraulic engineering with infrastructure safety and computational analysis, providing an applied basis for assessing river–structure interactions and developing more informed approaches to bridge scour assessment. [1]

Abstract

Ashvinie Thembiliyagoda’s research focuses on water resources engineering, hydraulic modelling, and bridge-pier scour assessment. Her work investigates riverbed erosion around bridge structures using computational hydraulic methods, particularly HEC-RAS two-dimensional modelling, together with physical validation approaches. Studies involving the Kelanisiri and Hanwella bridges examine scour depth estimation, hydraulic behaviour, and numerical model performance under river-flow conditions. Her research also compares one-dimensional and two-dimensional modelling approaches, linking computational results with infrastructure safety considerations. This developing research profile demonstrates an applied interest in river hydraulics, sediment processes, bridge resilience, and engineering methods for assessing scour-related risks in Sri Lankan river systems. [2]

Keywords

Water Resources Engineering; Hydraulic Modelling; HEC-RAS 2D; Bridge-Pier Scour; River Hydraulics; Sediment Transport; Civil Engineering; Hydrodynamic Modelling; Scour Depth Estimation; Infrastructure Resilience.

Introduction

Bridge-pier scour is an important hydraulic and geotechnical consideration because flowing water can remove sediment surrounding structural foundations. The resulting change in riverbed elevation can influence hydraulic conditions and the stability assessment of bridge infrastructure. Thembiliyagoda’s research addresses this problem through numerical modelling and field-oriented case studies in Sri Lanka. Her early published research applied HEC-RAS 2D to estimate scour around bridge piers at the Kelanisiri Bridge and examined model results against observed information. [2]

Research Profile

Thembiliyagoda is affiliated with the University of Moratuwa and is associated with civil engineering research involving water-related processes and hydraulic infrastructure. Public research records identify her work on bridge scour, HEC-RAS modelling, riverbed erosion, and comparative numerical analysis. Her publication activity shows a progression from case-specific scour simulation toward broader investigation of model validation and the relationship between numerical predictions and physical behaviour. [1]

Research Contributions

A central contribution of Thembiliyagoda’s work is the application of two-dimensional hydraulic modelling to bridge-pier scour assessment. Her Kelanisiri Bridge study used HEC-RAS to investigate bed-level changes around bridge piers during a flood event, reporting simulated scour depths and evaluating model performance using observed information. [2] This approach demonstrates how computational modelling can be applied to a specific infrastructure problem rather than treating river hydraulics only as a theoretical subject.

Publications

The researcher’s documented publication record includes conference and journal work addressing bridge-pier scour and hydraulic modelling. Selected works demonstrate a coherent research direction spanning numerical simulation, comparative modelling, and model validation.

Research Impact

The practical relevance of this research lies in its connection between river hydraulics and infrastructure assessment. Bridge scour modelling can support engineers in understanding changes in riverbed elevation and in examining locations where hydraulic conditions may affect bridge foundations. Thembiliyagoda’s work contributes case-based evidence from Sri Lankan river systems and demonstrates the use of numerical tools for investigating scour processes. [2]

Award Suitability

The documented research profile aligns with an Innovative Research Award theme through its focus on applied hydraulic modelling and infrastructure-related water resources research. Thembiliyagoda’s studies address a defined engineering problem, use computational methods to investigate scour behaviour, and incorporate comparative or physical validation approaches. Her research therefore provides a clear academic basis for recognition within a civil engineering or water resources research context, subject to the award programme’s independent eligibility and evaluation procedures.

Conclusion

Ashvinie Thembiliyagoda’s research is characterized by an applied focus on water resources engineering, hydraulic modelling, and bridge-pier scour. Her work combines HEC-RAS-based numerical simulation with comparative analysis and physical validation, using Sri Lankan bridge and river environments as important case contexts. The resulting research direction connects computational hydraulic analysis with practical questions of bridge infrastructure and river-system management. Her developing publication record provides a coherent foundation for continued research into scour prediction, river morphology, hydraulic modelling, and infrastructure resilience.

References

  1. ResearchGate. (n.d.). Ashvinie Thembiliyagoda — Research profile. University of Moratuwa, Department of Civil Engineering.
    https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ashvinie-Thembiliyagoda
  2. Thembiliyagoda, A., De Silva, K., & Wijayaratna, N. (2023). Application of HEC-RAS 2D Model to Simulate Scour Depth Around Bridge Piers—A Case Study on Kelanisiri Bridge, Sri Lanka. 2023 Moratuwa Engineering Research Conference, 660–665.
    https://doi.org/10.1109/MERCon60487.2023.10355411
  3. Thembiliyagoda, A., De Silva, K., & Wijayaratna, N. (2024). Comparative Analysis of 1D and 2D Modeling Approaches for Scour Depth Estimation: A Case Study of the Kelanisiri Bridge, Sri Lanka. Journal of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering, 2(3), 171–184.
    https://doi.org/10.56578/jche020304
  4. Thembiliyagoda, A., De Silva, K., & Wijayaratna, N. (2026). Hydrodynamic and morphological simulation of scour evolution around bridge piers due to sand mining activities using HEC-RAS 2D: a case study from Kelani River, Sri Lanka. Modeling Earth Systems and Environment, 12(2).
    https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-026-02742-7
  5. Rathnayake, H. M., Thembiliyagoda, A., & De Silva, K. (2024). Validating Numerical Model for Bridge Pier Scour Estimation Through Physical Modelling—Case Study of Kelanisiri Bridge. 2024 Moratuwa Engineering Research Conference, 500–505.
    https://doi.org/10.1109/MERCon63886.2024.10688772

Kristina Radinović | Water Resources Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Civil Engineering Awards

Dr . Kristina Radinović | Water Resources Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Research Associate at Faculty of Physical Chemistry , Serbia

Kristina Radinović is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award, recognized for her exceptional scientific contributions, including receiving the Serbian Chamber of Commerce Award for one of the best doctoral dissertations in 2024. Her research, focused on electrochemical sensors, environmental monitoring, and energy materials, has been published in high-impact journals such as Talanta, Electrochimica Acta, and Fuel, demonstrating both academic excellence and real-world relevance. With numerous international collaborations and conference presentations, she has established a strong global presence in her field. Her work addresses critical issues like arsenic detection in water and sustainable energy, aligning with national and global priorities. While her collaborative achievements are impressive, further focus on independent research leadership, securing grants, and exploring interdisciplinary or applied research areas could enhance her profile. Overall, Radinović’s contributions to science and her impact on the national economy make her a highly deserving candidate for this prestigious award.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Kristina Radinović has an extensive and impressive educational background. She completed her Doctoral Studies in Chemistry at the University of Belgrade, where her dissertation focused on electrochemical sensors and their applications in environmental monitoring. Her work earned her the Serbian Chamber of Commerce Award for one of the best doctoral dissertations in 2024, highlighting both the scientific depth and national relevance of her research. Radinović’s academic journey is further complemented by numerous collaborations with esteemed researchers internationally, contributing to her broad understanding and expertise in fields like electrochemistry, nanomaterials, and environmental science. Throughout her education, she has consistently demonstrated a passion for research, reflected in her impressive publication record and her participation in prestigious conferences worldwide. This robust educational foundation has shaped her into a skilled and innovative scientist, committed to addressing pressing global challenges through her work.

Professional Experience📝

Kristina Radinović has gained significant professional experience through her work as a researcher in the fields of electrochemistry, environmental monitoring, and materials science. She is currently involved in high-level research at the University of Belgrade, where she conducts studies focused on the development of electrochemical sensors for detecting environmental contaminants like arsenic in water. Over the years, Radinović has co-authored numerous impactful publications in top-tier journals such as Talanta and Electrochimica Acta, establishing herself as a leading figure in her field. Additionally, her research has led to active collaborations with international researchers, showcasing her ability to engage in cross-border scientific endeavors. Radinović has also presented her findings at major global conferences, strengthening her professional network and further solidifying her reputation in the scientific community. Her expertise in developing nanomaterials for environmental applications and her ongoing contributions to the scientific community highlight her significant professional accomplishments.

Research Interest🔎

Kristina Radinović’s research interests primarily lie in the areas of electrochemistry, environmental sensing, and nanomaterials. She is particularly focused on developing advanced electrochemical sensors for the detection of harmful substances, such as arsenic in aqueous solutions, with an emphasis on improving sensitivity, stability, and accuracy. Her work explores the integration of reduced graphene oxide and metal nanocomposites to enhance sensor performance. Additionally, Radinović investigates energy materials, including the design of electrocatalysts for efficient oxygen reduction and evolution reactions, which have significant applications in fuel cells and metal-air batteries. Her research aims to address global environmental challenges by advancing technology for detecting toxic pollutants and improving energy storage systems. With an interdisciplinary approach, she also explores the development of sustainable materials for environmental protection and energy conversion, contributing to both scientific innovation and real-world applications. Her work holds great promise for environmental monitoring and clean energy solutions.

Award and Honor🏆

Kristina Radinović has received several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of her exceptional scientific contributions. Notably, she was awarded the Serbian Chamber of Commerce Award in 2024 for one of the best doctoral dissertations, acknowledging her significant scientific impact and the relevance of her work to the national economy. This prestigious honor highlights her innovative research in electrochemistry and environmental sensing. Additionally, Radinović has consistently been recognized for her contributions to the scientific community through numerous publications in high-impact journals such as Talanta, Electrochimica Acta, and Fuel, further solidifying her reputation in her field. Her work has also been acknowledged at various international conferences, where she has presented her findings on environmental monitoring and energy materials. These awards and honors demonstrate Radinović’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and her active role in addressing global challenges through her research.

Research Skill🔬

Kristina Radinović possesses a diverse set of advanced research skills that make her a highly capable scientist in the fields of electrochemistry, materials science, and environmental sensing. She is proficient in synthesizing nanomaterials such as reduced graphene oxide and metal nanocomposites, which are essential for creating high-performance electrochemical sensors. Radinović is highly skilled in electrochemical analysis techniques, including cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, and chronoamperometry, which she uses to evaluate sensor performance and electrocatalytic behavior. Her expertise extends to the design and development of electrocatalysts for energy conversion applications like oxygen reduction and evolution reactions, critical for fuel cells and metal-air batteries. She is also adept at data analysis and statistical modeling, ensuring that her research is robust and reproducible. Furthermore, her ability to collaborate internationally and present findings at leading conferences demonstrates her strong communication skills and commitment to scientific dissemination.

Conclusion💡

In conclusion, Kristina Radinović is a highly accomplished and innovative researcher whose work has made a significant impact in the fields of electrochemistry, materials science, and environmental sensing. Her contributions, including the development of advanced electrochemical sensors and sustainable materials for energy conversion, have earned her numerous prestigious awards, including the Serbian Chamber of Commerce Award for her exceptional doctoral dissertation. With a strong publication record in high-impact journals and a demonstrated ability to collaborate internationally, Radinović has proven herself to be a leader in her field. Her research addresses pressing global challenges, such as environmental pollution and energy efficiency, with practical applications that hold great potential for societal advancement. As she continues to build on her research skills and expand her influence within the scientific community, Radinović is well-positioned to make even more groundbreaking contributions to both scientific knowledge and real-world solutions.

Publications Top Noted✍

Title: Facile synthesis of Co/rGO, Au/rGO, and CoAu/rGO nanocomposites for precise determination of Arsenic(III) in water systems

Authors: Kristina Radinović, Jadranka Milikić, Nemanja Gavrilov, Dalibor Stanković, Aleyna Basak, Önder Metin, Biljana Šljukić

Year: 2024

Citation: Electrochimica Acta 507 (2024) 145147