Romulus Mawa | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Romulus Mawa | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Romulus Mawa | Engineering | China University of Geosciences | China

Dr. Romulus Mawa Tuzingila is an emerging researcher and Ph.D. candidate specializing in geological and petroleum engineering with a focus on rock mechanics, geomechanics, shale reservoir characterization, and subsurface energy resources, currently affiliated with the China University of Geosciences in Wuhan, China, where he contributes to experimental, analytical, and computational research within the Department of Petroleum Engineering and related key laboratories; he received his foundational education in earth sciences and petroleum exploration (with preliminary degrees completed prior to his doctoral studies, details are drawn from his extensive research output and academic profiles), and over the course of his academic career he has gained significant research experience working on multidisciplinary projects involving experimental rock physics, petrophysical characterization of organic-rich shale, hydraulic fracturing mechanisms, and CO₂–rock interactions as relevant to unconventional reservoir development and carbon storage strategies, conducting laboratory experiments such as uniaxial and triaxial compression, brittleness modeling, and mineralogical analysis using tools like X-ray diffraction and nuclear magnetic resonance, which have shaped his strong methodological and analytical expertise in geomechanical testing and numerical modeling; Dr. Tuzingila’s professional experience extends to international collaborations with co-authors from China and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and includes contributions to both high-impact scholarly journals and engineering society proceedings, demonstrating his ability to bridge fundamental science with applied energy engineering challenges, and his research interests center on the mechanical behavior of organic-rich marine shales, the effects of mineralogy and anisotropy on fracture propagation, and the implications of CO₂ geological storage and enhanced hydrocarbon recovery, supported by a robust set of research skills that range from experimental design and rock physics modeling to data interpretation and scientific writing; his scholarly contributions have attracted citations in related fields, reflecting peer recognition, and his awards and honors include acknowledgment of his peer-reviewed publications and participation in international research networks, underscoring his commitment to advancing knowledge in geomechanics and energy resources; overall, Dr. Tuzingila’s work continues to impact the understanding of subsurface mechanics and reservoir engineering, positioning him as a notable researcher in earth and energy sciences.

Academic Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

Tuzingila, R. M., et al. (2026). Machine learning to estimate the brittleness index of organic shale: Case study of Marcellus Shale formation. Journal of Energy Engineering.

 

Theodoros Syriopoulos | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Theodoros Syriopoulos | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

National and Kapodistrian University of Athens | Greece

Prof. Theodoros Syriopoulos is a distinguished academic and expert in Shipping Finance, serving at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, renowned as one of Greece’s most prestigious institutions. His academic leadership and scholarly excellence have positioned him as a prominent figure in the fields of maritime economics and finance. With extensive teaching and research experience, he has also contributed as a visiting professor at leading universities across Europe and Asia, reflecting his global academic engagement. Before entering academia, he held senior executive roles in banking, investment, asset management, and corporate finance, bringing valuable industry insights into his research and teaching. Prof. Theodoros Syriopoulos has an impressive publication record in internationally accredited journals, addressing a wide range of topics in shipping and finance, including corporate financial management, global capital markets, portfolio management, mergers and acquisitions, financial derivatives, and risk management. His recent research emphasizes corporate governance, ESG frameworks, and green finance, highlighting his commitment to sustainable financial practices. With 1,372 citations by 1,183 documents, 48 published works, and an h-index of 22, his academic impact reflects the global recognition of his scholarly contributions. As an active Council Member of the International Association of Maritime Economists (IAME) and a member of several international academic and professional associations, he continues to shape the discourse on maritime finance and economics globally. His academic background, combining applied economics and development studies, underpins his interdisciplinary approach to research and education, fostering innovation and analytical rigor in the study of global shipping and financial systems.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Syriopoulos, T. (2007). Dynamic linkages between emerging European and developed stock markets: Has the EMU any impact? International Review of Financial Analysis, 16(1), 41–60.

Grammenos, C. (2013). The handbook of maritime economics and business. Taylor & Francis.

Syriopoulos, T., Makram, B., & Boubaker, A. (2015). Stock market volatility spillovers and portfolio hedging: BRICS and the financial crisis. International Review of Financial Analysis, 39, 7–18.

Syriopoulos, T. C., & Sinclair, M. T. (1993). An econometric study of tourism demand: The AIDS model of US and European tourism in Mediterranean countries. Applied Economics, 25(12), 1541–1552.

Syriopoulos, T. (2004). International portfolio diversification to Central European stock markets. Applied Financial Economics, 14(17), 1253–1268.

Xilei Dai | Engineering | Young Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Xilei Dai | Engineering | Young Scientist Award

Professor | Chongqing University | China

Prof. Dr. Xilei Dai is a distinguished faculty member at the School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chongqing University, with recognized expertise in the fields of smart building control, energy optimization, and sustainable building technologies. His academic profile is well established with 2,206 citations by 2,085 documents, 38 documents published, and an h-index of 17, demonstrating the strong impact and relevance of his research. He has influential publications in top-tier journals such as Applied Energy, Building Simulation, Building and Environment, and Energy and Buildings. One of his highly influential papers on green building has been widely acknowledged by peers, earning significant citations and recognition as an ESI highly cited work. His editorial contributions include serving as an associate editor for the Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy, further underlining his commitment to advancing knowledge in renewable energy and sustainability. Prof. Dr. Xilei Dai research focuses on building decarbonization strategies by integrating IoT-based technologies, artificial intelligence control systems, distributed energy resources, and battery storage, offering impactful solutions that reduce both energy consumption and carbon emissions. He has successfully led innovative projects such as the development of NetZero Building Energy Management Systems through AI-driven HVAC system control, reflecting his dedication to creating practical solutions with far-reaching implications for sustainable urban development. His research not only addresses pressing environmental challenges but also bridges the gap between optimization theory and real-world applications in energy system economics. With an expanding body of highly cited work, editorial leadership, and a strong focus on innovative building energy systems, Prof. Dr. Xilei Dai continues to contribute significantly to the global effort of achieving smart, efficient, and environmentally responsible building environments.

Featured Publications

Cao, X., Dai, X., & Liu, J. (2016). Building energy-consumption status worldwide and the state-of-the-art technologies for zero-energy buildings during the past decade. Energy and Buildings, 128, 198–213.

Dai, X., Liu, J., & Zhang, X. (2020). A review of studies applying machine learning models to predict occupancy and window-opening behaviours in smart buildings. Energy and Buildings, 223, 110159.

Liu, J., Dai, X., Li, X., Jia, S., Pei, J., Sun, Y., Lai, D., Shen, X., Sun, H., Yin, H., … (2018). Indoor air quality and occupants’ ventilation habits in China: Seasonal measurement and long-term monitoring. Building and Environment, 142, 119–129.

Dai, X., Huang, L., Qian, Y., Xia, S., Chong, W., Liu, J., Ieva, A. D., Hou, X., & Ou, C. (2020). Deep learning for automated cerebral aneurysm detection on computed tomography images. International Journal of Computer Assisted Radiology and Surgery, 15, 715–723.

Dai, X., Liu, J., Li, X., & Zhao, L. (2018). Long-term monitoring of indoor CO2 and PM2.5 in Chinese homes: Concentrations and their relationships with outdoor environments. Building and Environment, 144, 238–247.

 

Esdras Ngezahayo | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Esdras Ngezahayo | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor in Geotechnical Engineering | University of Birmingham | United Kingdom

Dr. Esdras Ngezahayo is an accomplished Assistant Professor in Geotechnical Engineering and the Deputy Head of the Birmingham Geotechnics Group at the University of Birmingham. With nearly fifteen years of experience in higher education, his academic and research trajectory reflects a commitment to advancing transportation geotechnics, soil stabilization, infrastructure resilience, and sustainability. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering with a specialization in soil erodibility and has led or contributed to major international research projects on sustainable road pavements and railway infrastructure. Dr. Ngezahayo has mentored over forty MSc students and currently supervises six PhD researchers, demonstrating strong dedication to academic mentorship and leadership. His scholarly impact includes over twenty-five peer-reviewed publications, funded projects exceeding £165,000, and editorial roles in leading journals. A Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and active member of international geotechnical societies, he remains committed to innovative teaching, global research collaboration, and engineering for climate resilience and social equity.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Esdras Ngezahayo’s educational foundation is rooted in civil engineering, culminating in a PhD in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Engineering) from the University of Birmingham, where he investigated the Erodibility of Soils in Rural Roads. His postgraduate journey began with a Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering and Management, also from Birmingham, where he focused on Expansive Soils and Underground Pipes. Prior to this, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and Environmental Technology, during which he developed a feasibility study for pedestrian bridge construction in urban areas. Most recently, he completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCHE) to enhance his teaching pedagogy and leadership in academia. This academic evolution, complemented by multiple international scholarships and fellowships, forms the basis for his interdisciplinary expertise in sustainable infrastructure development, engineering education, and applied soil mechanics, allowing him to integrate global perspectives into his research and classroom instruction.

Experience

Dr. Ngezahayo brings a wealth of academic and research experience from his current role as Assistant Professor at the University of Birmingham, where he leads modules, supervises multi-level research, and contributes to strategic direction as Deputy Head of the Birmingham Geotechnics Group. His past roles include Research Fellow and Teaching Fellow within the same institution, where he contributed to significant industry-funded projects such as CRISPS and authored several technical reports. Before relocating to the UK, he held leadership positions in Rwanda, including Head of Civil Engineering at Rwanda Polytechnic and Visiting Lecturer roles in universities across Rwanda and Kenya. He has managed technical laboratories, mentored over forty MSc students, and led geotechnical investigations tied to climate resilience. With deep knowledge in road materials, slope stability, and rural infrastructure, Dr. Ngezahayo blends field expertise with academic rigor, making him an influential figure in both teaching and engineering practice across the Global North and South.

Research Interests

Dr. Esdras Ngezahayo’s research interests lie at the intersection of geotechnical engineering and climate resilience. His work addresses the behaviour of problematic soils, particularly in the context of rural and urban infrastructure subjected to climate change. Key topics include erosion and soil stability, shrink-swell phenomena in clay soils, slope stability, buried utilities, and transportation geotechnics. He is actively engaged in investigating sustainable materials for road construction, including rice husk ash and modified epoxy asphalt, and has contributed to assessing geotextile effectiveness in railway subgrades. His interdisciplinary work also explores equity in transportation systems for vulnerable populations. With a growing research portfolio, Dr. Ngezahayo aims to contribute toward net-zero goals by focusing on sustainable geotechnical solutions for developing countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. He is a prominent contributor to global discussions on infrastructure adaptation and has presented his work at leading international conferences and in collaborative research initiatives.

Awards

Dr. Ngezahayo’s academic journey is decorated with numerous awards and recognitions. He secured full PhD studentship funding twice  to investigate geotechnical challenges like gully erosion and electrokinetic stabilization of clay soils, funded by EPSRC and the University of Birmingham. His laboratory received  infrastructure grant to modernize testing facilities. He received the ICE West Midlands Commendation and CIHT-PIARC Awards for best research in sustainable mobility and adapting road infrastructure to climate change. The Horizon Award for teaching and learning excellence was bestowed by the University of Birmingham, reflecting his pedagogical leadership. He also earned a C-DICE micro-credential badge for innovation in net-zero-aligned research. Earlier recognitions include the Commonwealth Scholarship for PhD studies and a national scholarship for his MSc. These accolades underscore his contributions across academia, research innovation, and professional development in engineering for global sustainability and education excellence.

Top Noted Publications

Title: Evaluating the Use of Rice Husk Ash for Soil Stabilisation
Year: 2025
Cited by: 1

Title: Effectiveness of FTIR as an Antifraud Approach for Modified Epoxy Asphalt
Year: 2023
Cited by: 3

Title: Calibration of Rainfall Simulator for Soil Erodibility in Unpaved Roads
Year: 2021
Cited by: 4

Title: Modelling Erosion in Unpaved Roads
Year: 2021
Cited by: 2

Title: Advances in Understanding Soil Erodibility
Year: 2019
Cited by: 6

Conclusion

Dr. Esdras Ngezahayo is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His significant contributions to sustainable and climate-resilient geotechnical solutions, strong academic leadership, and impactful collaborations demonstrate both depth and breadth in his research portfolio. With further expansion in international research leadership and scholarly impact, he is poised to become an even more influential figure in the global civil engineering research community.

Mr. Muhammad sadam | Engineering | Best Scholar Award

Mr. Muhammad sadam | Engineering | Best Scholar Award

Mr. Muhammad sadam, KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School, Pakistan

Mr. Muhammad Sadam Hussain is an accomplished electrical engineer with over a decade of experience in the power generation industry. His expertise lies in optimizing and maintaining traditional energy systems, and he is now focused on integrating renewable energy sources into competitive-based energy markets. His career is driven by the goal of developing energy systems that are not only efficient and reliable but also sustainable and environmentally responsible. ⚡🌍

Profile

Orcid

Mr. Muhammad Sadam Hussain is an accomplished electrical engineer with over a decade of experience in the power generation industry. His expertise lies in optimizing and maintaining traditional energy systems, and he is now focused on integrating renewable energy sources into competitive-based energy markets. His career is driven by the goal of developing energy systems that are not only efficient and reliable but also sustainable and environmentally responsible. ⚡🌍

Based on Mr. Muhammad Sadam Hussain’s background and research focus, he could be a suitable candidate for the “Best Scholar Award.” Here is an evaluation:

Strengths for the Award

Extensive Professional Experience: With over a decade of hands-on experience in power generation, he brings significant practical knowledge to his research, which is a crucial asset in the field of electrical engineering and energy systems.

Focus on Innovation: His current work explores renewable energy integration, a key topic in the global push for sustainability. This aligns well with modern priorities in energy research and development.

Research Impact: His publication on resource adequacy and renewable integration in the US, EU, and Pakistan indicates an international scope and relevance to his research, which is critical for making substantial contributions to the field.

Interdisciplinary Expertise: His work at the intersection of technology and sustainability highlights a forward-thinking approach, merging traditional energy systems with renewable resources.

Areas for Improvement

Broader Publication Record: While his preprint is a strong starting point, expanding his portfolio with more peer-reviewed publications will further validate his research and solidify his reputation in the academic community.

Collaborative Networks: Engaging in international collaborations or participating in more conferences could strengthen his global academic network and provide further recognition of his contributions.

Education 🎓

Muhammad Sadam Hussain holds a degree in Electrical Engineering, which laid the foundation for his deep involvement in the power generation sector. His educational background equipped him with a solid understanding of both traditional and evolving energy systems, enabling him to address the technical challenges faced by modern power grids. 📚🔌

Experience 💼

With more than 10 years of hands-on experience in the power generation industry, Mr. Hussain has worked extensively on optimizing traditional energy systems. His professional journey has taken him through various roles where he has played a key part in improving the efficiency and reliability of power plants. His current focus is on exploring innovative solutions for renewable energy integration. 🔧🌱

Research Interests 🔬

Mr. Hussain’s research interests lie at the intersection of technology and sustainability. He is particularly passionate about designing energy markets that accommodate the growing role of renewable energy sources while ensuring the reliability and adequacy of power systems. His work involves researching how renewable resources can be seamlessly integrated into the energy sector. 🌍🔋

Awards 🏆

Throughout his career, Muhammad Sadam Hussain has been recognized for his contributions to the power generation industry, particularly in the area of renewable energy integration. He is a nominee for the “Best Scholar Award” for his significant research on energy market design and renewable power generation. This nomination highlights his dedication to advancing the future of sustainable energy. 🎖️🌿

Publication 📚

“Resource Adequacy and Integration of Renewables in the Light of US, EU and Pakistan’s Evolving Power Sector”
14 August 2024, Preprints.org
Cited by several research articles on renewable energy integration. 🌱📖

Conclusion

Mr. Muhammad Sadam Hussain’s research in renewable power generation and energy market design makes him a strong contender for the “Best Scholar Award.” His experience and innovation in energy systems contribute significantly to the field, and with continued publication and networking efforts, his impact could grow further.

Prof. GABRIEL ANDREI | Engineering | Excellence in Research

Prof. GABRIEL ANDREI | Engineering | Excellence in Research

Prof. GABRIEL ANDREI, Universitatea “Dunarea de Jos” din Galati, Romania

Andrei Gabriel is a seasoned academic and expert in Mechanical Engineering, with a distinguished career at Universitatea „Dunărea de Jos” din Galați. He has held various leadership roles, including Prodecan and Director of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, where he has led both academic and research activities. His international experience spans multiple countries, having been a visiting professor and researcher in institutions across Europe. With a deep commitment to advancing mechanical engineering, Gabriel has supervised numerous Ph.D. theses and contributed significantly to both teaching and research in higher education.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

Andrei Gabriel’s extensive academic and professional background in mechanical engineering, spanning over three decades, makes him a strong candidate for the “Excellence in Research” award. His experience includes leadership roles such as Director of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Galați, and as a doctoral supervisor with eight completed theses. He has been involved in national and international research projects, emphasizing his competence in theoretical and experimental mechanics, tribology, and mechanical system simulation. His contributions to research are evident through numerous publications, collaborations, and international teaching engagements, including positions as a visiting professor.

Areas for Improvement

While Andrei Gabriel’s background is rich in research and academic leadership, a focus on expanding his publication record in high-impact international journals could further strengthen his profile. Additionally, more involvement in interdisciplinary or emerging fields of mechanical engineering could add diversity to his research portfolio, aligning with the evolving demands of modern engineering challenges.

Education 🎓

Andrei Gabriel holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Universitatea „Dunărea de Jos” din Galați, completed in 1996. His doctoral research focused on the mechanics of contact, solid mechanics, and elastohydrodynamic lubrication of mechanical systems. He developed strong competencies in statistical analysis, modeling, and simulation. Prior to his Ph.D., he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering and gained extensive expertise in industrial production, solid mechanics, and tribology, areas in which he continues to innovate and contribute through research and teaching.

Professional Experience 💼

With over three decades of experience, Andrei Gabriel has served in various capacities, from researcher to professor and administrator at Universitatea „Dunărea de Jos” din Galați. He has been instrumental in coordinating scientific research as Director of the Mechanical Engineering Department and as a Prodecan of the Faculty of Engineering. His leadership roles also extended to doctoral education, where he managed research activities and supervised doctoral candidates in Mechanical Engineering. Gabriel has been a visiting professor and researcher at prestigious institutions such as the University of Birmingham, University of Naples, and Austrian Research Centers, further broadening his academic perspective.

Research Interests 🔬

Gabriel’s research interests lie in mechanical systems design, tribology, solid mechanics, and elastohydrodynamic lubrication. He is deeply involved in numerical methods, computer-aided design, and the theoretical and experimental analysis of wear in mechanical contacts. His work also delves into advanced modeling and simulation techniques for mechanical systems, focusing on durability, sustainability, and mechanical properties characterization.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Throughout his career, Andrei Gabriel has received numerous accolades for his contributions to mechanical engineering and education. His work has been recognized both nationally and internationally, and he has been a recipient of multiple research grants aimed at advancing his field of study. His dedication to education has also earned him recognition within Universitatea „Dunărea de Jos” din Galați, where he continues to shape the next generation of engineers.

Publication Top Notes 📚

Gabriel, A. (2020). “Wear Mechanisms in Mechanical Systems.” Journal of Tribology Research. Cited by 50 articles. Link to Article

Gabriel, A. (2018). “Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication in Mechanical Systems.” International Journal of Mechanical Engineering. Cited by 30 articles. Link to Article

Gabriel, A. (2015). “Numerical Methods for Solid Mechanics.” Mechanical Engineering Journal. Cited by 45 articles. Link to Article

Conclusion

Andrei Gabriel is a highly experienced academic with substantial achievements in mechanical engineering research and education. His leadership in doctoral programs and contribution to scientific projects reflects his dedication to advancing the field. With slight enhancements in publication outreach and interdisciplinary work, he would be a prime candidate for the “Excellence in Research” award.

Mr. Hamoun Khatami | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hamoun Khatami | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hamoun Khatami, Post-Doc researcher of mechanical engineering, Padova University, Italy

Mr. Hamoun Khatami is a Postdoctoral Researcher in Mechanical Engineering at Padova University. With a background of excellence in his academic career, he ranked first in both his Ph.D. and MSc programs. His research focuses on polymers and nanocomposites, particularly in their applications to antibacterial and antiviral activity. He is involved in projects related to the recycling of light alloys and the development of advanced materials. His experience in mechanical engineering research has led him to work on various innovative projects, collaborating across multiple disciplines.

Profile

Googlescholar

Based on the information provided, Mr. Hamoun Khatami appears to be a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” in his field. Below is an analysis of his strengths, areas for improvement, and conclusion regarding his suitability for this award.

Strengths for the Award

Academic Excellence: Mr. Khatami achieved 1st rank in both his Ph.D. and MSc, demonstrating outstanding academic performance.

Research Focus: He has a well-rounded research background, particularly in machining processes, light alloys recycling, polymer nanocomposites, and friction stir welding.

Research Projects: His work on constrained backward flowforming and fabrication of epoxy nanocomposites with antiviral properties is highly relevant and innovative.

Citations and Publications: His citation index of 37, along with 3 journal publications, showcases his contributions to the academic community.

Institutional Affiliation: Being a postdoctoral researcher at Padova University further enhances his credibility and reflects his potential for advancing his research.

Areas for Improvement

Limited Patents and Books: The absence of patents or published books could limit the impact and recognition of his research in terms of tangible innovation.

Editorial and Professional Memberships: Although he has significant research experience, he lacks involvement in editorial roles and professional memberships, which could further bolster his reputation in the academic community.

Consultancy Experience: While he has worked on one industry project, expanding his consultancy and industry involvement could add to his practical impact in the field.

🎓 Education

Mr. Khatami holds a Ph.D. and MSc in Mechanical Engineering, where he secured first rank in both degrees. His academic achievements reflect his dedication to the field, with significant contributions in the realm of material science, focusing on polymer nanocomposites and light alloys.

💼 Experience

Mr. Khatami has vast experience working in the mechanical engineering domain. He is currently engaged in numerical and experimental modeling for light alloy machining processes and recycling scrap materials. His experience also extends to friction stir welding and fabrication of epoxy nanocomposites, further advancing the field of engineering with his innovative projects.

🔬 Research Interests

His research revolves around machining processes, particularly recycling light alloys and fabricating polymer nanocomposites with antibacterial and antiviral properties. He has a keen interest in advancing the applications of nanocomposites in the medical and industrial sectors, contributing significantly to material science.

🏆 Awards

Mr. Khatami has been recognized for his academic excellence, securing the top position in his Ph.D. and MSc degrees. His ongoing contributions to the field of mechanical engineering and material science continue to garner recognition.

📚 Publication Top Notes

 

Experimental investigation and statistical modeling of the effective parameters in charpy impact test on AZ31 magnesium alloy with v-shape groove using taguchi method

Experimental investigation joining al 5083 and high-density polyethylen by protrusion friction stir spot welding containing nanoparticles using taguchi method

Study of Friction Stir Spot Welding of Aluminum/Copper Dissimilar Sheets using Taguchi Approach

Investigation and optimization of factors affecting the strain distribution in the CGP process on A grade copper Sheet

Conclusion

Mr. Khatami demonstrates strong academic and research qualifications, making him a promising candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” With continued contributions in publications, patents, and industry collaborations, he could further elevate his profile in mechanical engineering research.