Yang Yunpeng | Geotechnical Engineering | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Civil Engineering Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yang Yunpeng | Geotechnical Engineering | Research Excellence Award

Yangtze University | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yang Yunpeng is a dedicated early-career scholar and Specially Appointed Associate Professor at the College of Geosciences, Yangtze University, recognized for his emerging contributions to the field of geological hazards and mountain disaster dynamics. His research primarily focuses on the mechanisms, evolution, and monitoring of landslides, debris flows, rock avalanches, and snow avalanches, with an emphasis on disaster-chain processes in seismically active regions. He has developed expertise in seismic-signal-based monitoring and early warning frameworks, experimental flume testing, debris-flow dynamics, and disaster-risk mitigation technologies. Dr. Yang has published over ten research articles, including nine SCI-indexed papers, with four as first or corresponding author in reputable international journals such as Engineering Geology, JGR: Earth Surface, and Landslides. His work has clarified the chain-inducing mechanisms of seismic landslide–debris-flow sequences, advanced the understanding of debris-flow impact dynamics, and contributed novel insights into sediment transport transitions under seismic forcing. In addition to publications, he has participated in the development of multiple national invention patents related to disaster simulation, debris-flow hazard mitigation, and engineering modeling technologies, demonstrating both scientific innovation and practical applicability. Dr. Yang collaborates actively with interdisciplinary teams involving experts in seismology, geomorphology, engineering geology, and geotechnical engineering, enabling integrative approaches to mountain-hazard research. His contributions support national needs in major engineering construction and disaster-risk reduction, with societal impacts spanning improved hazard early-warning capabilities, enhanced understanding of disaster chains, and the development of protective strategies for vulnerable mountainous regions. Through rigorous research, international engagement, and commitment to scientific advancement, Yang Yunpeng continues to establish himself as a promising researcher contributing valuable knowledge to global geohazard prevention and sustainable development.

Profile: Scopus
Publication

Physical model experiment of rainfall-induced instability of a two-layer slope: Implications for early warning. Landslides. (2024)

Ramin Vafaei Poursorkhabi | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ramin Vafaei Poursorkhabi | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Islamic Azad University | Iran

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ramin Vafaei Poursorkhabi has built a strong research profile focusing on civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, structural analysis, soil improvement techniques, and the application of artificial intelligence in solving complex engineering challenges. His work spans across diverse areas such as the stabilization of soils through innovative methods like geopolymerization, evaluation of dispersive clay properties, monitoring and analysis of dam structures, and the use of metaheuristic algorithms for seismic response reduction and subsurface modeling. He has contributed significantly to advancements in hydraulic conductivity estimation, environmental optimization in road construction, and the reinforcement of geotechnical stability through geogrid applications. His studies also include offshore platform reliability, wave–structure interaction, and improvements in rubble mound breakwater resistance, showcasing an interdisciplinary approach that connects geotechnical, structural, and coastal engineering. By integrating clustering techniques, fuzzy logic, wavelet-based artificial neural networks, and hybrid optimization methods, he has introduced innovative models to enhance predictive accuracy and engineering design efficiency. Several of his publications highlight practical applications through case studies of large infrastructure projects, including dams, offshore platforms, and municipal roads, providing a blend of theoretical modeling and applied research. Additionally, his collaboration with scholars across multiple institutions has fostered a multidisciplinary approach to engineering problems, producing solutions that are both technically sound and environmentally conscious. The consistent use of computational intelligence tools demonstrates his commitment to bridging traditional engineering with modern machine learning techniques, aiming to optimize performance, reduce risk, and ensure structural safety. His publications in international journals and conference proceedings reflect not only academic contribution but also practical impact in real-world infrastructure development. This research track record establishes Ramin Vafaei Poursorkhabi as an impactful contributor in advancing the fields of geotechnical and structural engineering with strong integration of intelligent systems. 105 Citations 31 Documents 6 h-index View.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID | Research Gate 
Featured Publications:

Using the clustering method to find the final environmental parameters coefficients in road construction projects. (2025). Scientific Reports.

Experimental investigation of a special chemical additive for improving the geotechnical properties of dispersive clay soils. (2025). Results in Engineering.

Estimation of hydraulic conductivity using gradation information through Larsen fuzzy logic hybrid wavelet artificial neural network and combined artificial intelligence models. (2025). Discover Applied Sciences.

Yiyi Yang | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Scholar Award

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Ms. Yiyi Yang | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Scholar Award

Northwestern University | China

Ms. Yiyi Yang is a dedicated researcher in geological engineering with a strong academic foundation and growing expertise in soil mechanics and geotechnical applications. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in Geological Engineering at Northwest University, Xi’an, following a successful completion of a bachelor’s degree in the same field at Xi’an University of Science and Technology, the academic journey reflects both excellence and commitment. Consistently recognized with multiple scholarships and awards, including the First-Class Scholarship at Northwest University, the performance ranking at the top of the class underscores outstanding ability and determination. Research contributions demonstrate an interest in soil-water interactions, particularly in the deformation of compacted loess under wetting and infiltration processes. Work on compaction conditions, microstructural evolution, and hydraulic conductivity showcases both analytical skills and experimental rigor. As part of a collaborative project under the supervision of Ping Li, significant insights were gained into loess behavior, which are highly relevant to civil engineering and geotechnical practices. The publication “From agricultural waste to geotechnical application: Multiscale mechanisms of apple tree biochar for loess reinforcement” in Powder Technology highlights the capacity to connect environmental sustainability with engineering innovation by exploring biochar as a reinforcement material. Beyond academics, contributions as a volunteer and recognition with a two-star volunteer award reflect a well-rounded individual balancing research, academic achievement, and community engagement. Technical skills span experimental methods, data collection, and advanced use of specialized software including AutoCAD, CorelDraw, Origin, and Python, reinforcing readiness for complex research and engineering tasks. Proficiency in English, demonstrated by CET-6, further supports the ability to engage with international research. Altogether, the profile demonstrates exceptional potential for advancing knowledge in geological engineering, particularly in sustainable geotechnical solutions that bridge environmental considerations with practical applications in soil stabilization and infrastructure development.

Profile: Scopus
Featured Publication:

From agricultural waste to geotechnical application: Investigation of apple tree biochar for loess reinforcement. (2025). Powder Technology.

Zhiliang Wang – Geotechnical Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering Awards

Prof. Zhiliang Wang | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Kunming University of Science and Technology | China

Prof. Zhiliang Wang has established a strong research foundation in civil and geotechnical engineering, focusing extensively on tunnel and underground engineering, soil behavior, and numerical simulation methods. His research contributions address safety evaluation of tunnels, mitigation of hazards associated with special soils, and the development of multi-field coupling models for geotechnical applications. By integrating theoretical modeling with experimental studies, Zhiliang Wang has advanced understanding of soil stabilization mechanisms, long-term settlement issues in peat soils, and fracture propagation in rock mass. His works also highlight the application of lattice Boltzmann methods for simulating fluid flow, heat transfer, and seepage in complex soil and rock structures, bridging the gap between computational approaches and practical engineering challenges. Through projects supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and industry collaborations, he has contributed innovative solutions for freezing processes in soils, shield tunneling effects, and soil-structure interaction in underground construction. His publications in high-impact journals cover a wide range of topics, from sustainable approaches such as incorporating clay and manufactured sand in soil stabilization to advanced simulations of thermal and hydraulic processes in soils. Zhiliang Wang’s research outcomes not only enhance engineering safety and efficiency but also align with sustainability goals by addressing energy-efficient and environmentally friendly practices in geotechnical engineering. His active involvement in teaching courses like tunnel engineering and numerical simulation further strengthens the link between academic research and practical application, inspiring future professionals in the field. With 366 citations by 339 documents, 65 documents, and an h-index of 11, Zhiliang Wang’s scholarly impact reflects his significant role in shaping modern research and innovations in underground engineering and soil mechanics.

Profile: Scopus
Featured Publications: 

  1. Effect of random microcracks on macroscopic crack propagation in rock. (2024). Cited by 2.

  2. A numerical simulation of high-temperature rock hydraulic fracturing based on coupled thermo-mechanical peridynamics. (2024). Cited by 1.

  3. Study on the seepage and heat transfer effect of rough fractures in hot matrix considering dynamic thermophysical properties of fluid. (2024). Cited by 2.

  4. Numerical simulation of glass panel impact damage based on peridynamics. (2024). Cited by 1.