Xi Yang | Food Science | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Civil Engineering Awards

Prof. Xi Yang | Food Science | Young Scientist Award

Ningbo University | China

Prof. Xi Yang is a distinguished researcher and Professor in the Department of Food Science and Engineering at Ningbo University, China. His scholarly work focuses on the physicochemical properties of food macromolecules, with particular expertise in the gelation mechanisms, rheological behavior, and network structures of polysaccharide–protein systems. Dr. Yang obtained his Ph.D. in Food Science from Shaanxi Normal University and completed successive postdoctoral appointments at the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology under the JSPS Fellowship, where he advanced the understanding of texture design in biopolymer gels through microscopic structural control. He has authored more than 35 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as Trends in Food Science & Technology, Food Hydrocolloids, Carbohydrate Polymers, and Food Chemistry, several of which have been widely cited in the global food materials science community. His research has elucidated critical mechanisms in polysaccharide–protein interactions, ionic gelation, and phase behavior of mixed biopolymers, contributing to the design of healthier and sustainable food textures. Dr. Yang has collaborated extensively with international research teams in China, Japan, and Europe, fostering interdisciplinary innovation in soft matter and functional food engineering. Beyond his publications, he has served as a Guest Editor for Foods and as an Editorial Board Member for Food Hydrocolloids, underscoring his leadership in the field. His contributions have significantly influenced industrial applications in food structuring, emulsions, and hydrocolloid-based materials, with implications for nutrition, food safety, and texture enhancement. Through his academic rigor, collaborative projects, and mentorship, Dr. Yang continues to advance the frontier of food macromolecular science and its societal impact on sustainable and health-oriented food innovation.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID
Publications:

Investigating the gelation behavior and mechanisms of Ficus awkeotsang Makino pectin under the influence of different cations. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. 
(Cited by: 1)

A new apple polysaccharide for stabilizing goat milk casein dispersion: Rheology, SAXS and intermolecular interaction studies. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. 
(Cited by: 2)

Composite gels prepared from pea protein isolate and Ficus awkeotsang Makino pectin: Spontaneous gelation behavior, microstructures, and formation mechanism. Food Chemistry. 
(Cited by: 0)

Gelation mechanism of gellan in coexisting trivalent with monovalent cations as studied by NMR and particle tracking. Food Hydrocolloids. 
(Cited by: 1)

The formation mechanism of self-assembly composite gels. Journal of Food Engineering. https://doi.org/[DOI unavailable]
(Cited by: 0)

Liwen Zhang | Operations Management | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering Awards

Ms. Liwen Zhang | Operations Management | Best Researcher Award

PhD candidate in Logistics Engineering and Management | Chang'an University | China

Ms. Liwen Zhang is an emerging scholar specializing in Project Management and Supply Chain Management, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Logistics Engineering and Management at Chang’an University, China. Her academic journey reflects a strong foundation in Management Science and Engineering, supported by both undergraduate and postgraduate research experiences at the same institution. Ms. Zhang has co-authored several high-impact papers published in globally recognized JCR Q1 journals, including Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Humanities & Social Sciences Communications (a Nature sub-journal), and Mathematics. Her notable works explore cutting-edge themes such as power battery technology R&D strategies under competitive supply chain environments, interactive risk management in project portfolios, and the integration of project and supply chain management through optimization methods. She has demonstrated advanced methodological expertise and leadership in conceptualization, model design, and scholarly writing. Ms. Zhang’s collaborative research with prominent scholars like Prof. Libiao Bai and others underscores her commitment to interdisciplinary and globally relevant problem-solving in sustainable and technology-driven operations. Her studies contribute to optimizing organizational decision-making processes, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable industrial practices, thus offering tangible value to both academia and industry. Through her meticulous and enthusiastic approach, she continues to advance the field’s understanding of how project management strategies can enhance supply chain resilience and technological innovation. With a growing research portfolio and multiple international publications, Ms. Zhang is well-positioned to make impactful contributions to the academic and professional communities dedicated to management science and engineering.

Profile: Scopus
Featured Publications:

Anis Asadi Ardebili – Construction Management – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering Awards

Anis Asadi Ardebili - Construction Management - Best Researcher Award

Polytechnic university of Madrid - Australia

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

SUMMARY

Anis Asadi Ardebili is a research-driven architectural and building innovation specialist focused on sustainable material development and construction practices. With advanced academic training from the Polytechnic University of Madrid, he contributes to the integration of technological innovations in civil and architectural engineering. His work explores material reuse, urban sustainability, and performance optimization of construction systems. His academic pursuits are reinforced by practical experience in design and teaching, providing a holistic approach to research, education, and innovation. He continues to contribute to high-impact publications and international academic platforms in architecture, construction materials, and environmental building practices.

EDUCATION

Completed advanced studies in architecture and technological innovation in building across prominent Iranian and Spanish institutions. Gained specialized knowledge in public building design, ethnomusicological space planning, and architectural identity through bachelor's, master’s, and doctoral programs. Key academic contributions include architectural thesis projects focusing on cultural and urban design themes. His PhD at the Polytechnic University of Madrid centers on sustainable construction materials and technological improvements in building performance. Academic mentors and institutional affiliations have shaped his multidisciplinary understanding of architecture, design theory, and building technology within both traditional and contemporary contexts.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Experience spans academic instruction and applied architectural research. Contributed as a lecturer and teaching assistant in foundational architecture courses, engaging with large student groups and assisting in curriculum design and evaluation. Responsibilities included delivering lessons on geometry, perspective, and architectural comprehension. Additionally, collaborated on academic research addressing environmental and technological aspects of architecture. Through these roles, demonstrated a commitment to pedagogical clarity and intellectual development in design education. Professional practice also includes analyzing architectural identity and sustainable urban growth, merging theoretical research with practical applications to inform innovative and eco-conscious construction solutions.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Research focuses on sustainable construction technologies and material innovation. Key areas include optimization of grout mixtures using industrial waste and alternative binders, and evaluating their performance under variable environmental conditions. Investigates how recycled materials from demolition and automotive sectors can enhance the mechanical and ecological performance of building composites. Also explores energy-efficient rehabilitation of public buildings and user-centered design strategies. Broader interests extend to assessing the environmental footprint of construction practices and incorporating human-centric parameters in architecture for urban sustainability, thermal comfort, and resource efficiency in contemporary and historical architectural contexts.

AWARD AND HONOR

Recognized for contributions to civil engineering research and architectural sustainability, particularly in advancing material reuse and energy-efficient construction strategies. Participated in national and international collaborations that highlight emerging research on waste incorporation into construction materials. Award considerations stem from academic excellence, multidisciplinary research outcomes, and commitment to environmentally responsible design. Engagement with institutions in Spain and Iran positions his research as globally relevant, aligning with both academic and industry-driven goals in sustainable development. Future accolades are anticipated from his ongoing submissions to high-impact journals and participation in research symposiums and sustainability initiatives.

RESEARCH SKILL

Proficient in material testing, performance evaluation, and comparative analysis of composite systems. Skilled in designing experimental studies involving recycled waste incorporation into gypsum and cementitious products. Adept in analyzing thermal comfort parameters in architectural spaces and assessing environmental impacts using quantitative and qualitative methods. Possesses architectural design abilities informed by cultural context and urban dynamics. Combines technical laboratory skills with theoretical understanding of sustainable design. Research capabilities are further demonstrated through contributions to peer-reviewed publications, manuscript development, and academic instruction in architectural fundamentals and design-oriented problem-solving.

PUBLICATIONS TOP NOTED

Published multiple peer-reviewed articles in journals such as Materials in Civil Engineering and Construction and Building Materials. Noteworthy publications include: "Mechanical characterization of gypsum-based composites with single-use sling waste fibers," and "Mechanical characterization of gypsum mortars with waste from the automotive sector." Other key works examine urban tourism's impact on sustainability and identity in Iranian architecture. A submitted manuscript titled "Thermal Comfort and Energy Efficiency in Public Building Rehabilitation" reflects a growing focus on integrating building science with user needs. These works reflect a blend of material science, environmental responsibility, and urban design.

CONCLUSION

Anis Asadi Ardebili’s academic and research trajectory demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable building practices and innovative architectural solutions. His interdisciplinary focus connects material technology with urban development and human-centered design. With expertise in both theoretical analysis and applied research, he bridges the gap between tradition and innovation in architecture. His dedication to advancing environmentally conscious construction methods and engaging in impactful teaching solidifies his position as a forward-thinking contributor to architectural education and civil engineering research. Continued publication, research collaboration, and educational leadership will define the next phase of his career.

Erik C. Backus – Construction Management – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering Awards

Erik C. Backus - Construction Management - Best Researcher Award

Clarkson University - United States

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

SUMMARY

Dr. Erik C. Backus is a recognized leader in construction engineering and facility decision-making, currently serving as Professor and Director of the Construction Engineering Management (CEM) program at Clarkson University. His career spans academia, the military, and public infrastructure, blending leadership, research, and strategic planning. A retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, he has managed multimillion-dollar construction projects globally. His work emphasizes sustainability, resilience, and holistic planning. Through teaching, publications, and service, Dr. Backus advances infrastructure innovation while mentoring future engineers and influencing policy on energy-efficient, sustainable, and smart facilities.

EDUCATION

Dr. Backus holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Science from Clarkson University, where he developed a decision-making framework for facilities management. He also earned Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Civil Engineering, concentrating on construction engineering and infrastructure technologies. His academic journey underpins his expertise in strategic facility planning, systems thinking, and construction innovation. His doctoral work forms the foundation of his contributions to sustainable planning systems and resilient infrastructure. By combining rigorous technical education with practical experience, Dr. Backus has built a reputation for bridging the gap between engineering theory and the challenges faced in real-world facility operations.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Dr. Backus’s extensive experience includes academic, military, and institutional leadership roles. He has directed Clarkson University's CEM program since 2014, leading curriculum development, research, and industry partnerships. His previous roles include Engineering Planner and Project Manager at George Mason University and Chief of Engineering at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. A U.S. Army combat veteran, he managed infrastructure in conflict zones, overseeing over $300 million in projects. He has also served as Battalion Commander, Design Engineer, and Project Officer in the Army Reserve. These diverse roles reflect a career committed to excellence, resilience, and sustainable construction practices.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Dr. Backus focuses on decision-making frameworks for facilities and infrastructure projects, sustainable construction methods, and community resilience. His research integrates engineering design, data-driven planning, and sustainable systems, including LEED for Communities certification. He is the lead investigator in studies assessing holistic planning in multi-jurisdictional regions and contributes to the New York State Climate Impacts Assessment. He explores how facilities systems can adapt to environmental challenges through informed, strategic decisions. His research bridges environmental engineering, infrastructure development, and policy, offering transformative solutions for smart, resilient, and efficient built environments in education, defense, and municipal sectors.

AWARD AND HONOR

Dr. Backus has received numerous awards including the Bronze Star Medal, Best Paper Awards, and honors from APPA and USGBC. He was named “Professor to Know” in Civil Engineering and has been a recipient of community leadership awards such as the USGBC Community Leader of the Quarter. His Army commendations reflect excellence in combat engineering and public works, while academic awards highlight his teaching impact and research contributions. Recognized for sustainable infrastructure leadership, he played a central role in securing the first multi-jurisdictional LEED for Communities certification, illustrating his pioneering role in green urban planning.

RESEARCH SKILL

Dr. Backus brings expert-level knowledge in infrastructure decision-making, facilities management, sustainability assessment, and project planning. He is skilled in software like AutoCAD, ArcGIS, MS Project, and RS Means for estimating. His technical strengths include LEED certification processes, construction programming, resilience planning, and informatics for facility management. He has led facility-related consulting initiatives, authored national guidelines, and applied systems thinking to climate impacts. Dr. Backus’s research skills extend to integrating technical standards with strategic policy, enabling high-performance building systems. He combines military engineering precision with academic insight to drive sustainable and resilient infrastructure practices.

PUBLICATIONS

  • Title: Balancing practicality and aspiration: A comparative analysis of sustainable holistic planning system toolkit designs

  • Authors: Anne E. Mosher (A.E. Mosher), Stephen D. Bird (S.D. Bird), Santosh K. Mahapatra (S.K. Mahapatra), Joséph D. Skufca (J.D. Skufca), Erik Carl Backus (E.C. Backus)

  • Journal: Landscape and Urban Planning

CONCLUSION

Dr. Erik C. Backus stands at the intersection of engineering practice, academic leadership, and public service. His interdisciplinary expertise enables him to develop sustainable, resilient, and cost-effective infrastructure systems. As a veteran, educator, and planner, he blends rigorous research with practical implementation, influencing policy and teaching the next generation of engineers. With proven leadership in military and civilian sectors, and a strong publication and grant record, Dr. Backus continues to drive progress in climate-resilient infrastructure and sustainable facility management. His work exemplifies innovation and integrity in advancing the built environment for communities and institutions alike.