Mohammed Ahmed | Engineering Project Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammed Ahmed | Engineering Project Management |Best Researcher Award

Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University, Iraq

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mohammed Ali Ahmed began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Engineering Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Tikrit, Saladin, Iraq, in 1996. His passion for project coordination and infrastructure development led him to pursue a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, majoring in Project Management, at Al-Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, in 2003. Seeking advanced knowledge and global academic exposure, he earned his PhD in Civil Engineering (Project Management) from the prestigious Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Brisbane, Australia, in 2020.

🏗️ Professional Endeavors

With over two decades of extensive experience, Dr. Ahmed has significantly contributed to both academia and industry. From 1997 to 1999, he worked in the private sector as a full-time surveyor and estimator, laying the foundation for his technical and practical expertise. He joined Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University in 2005 as a full-time lecturer, and since 2023, he has been affiliated with the Engineering Technical College in Al-Najaf, under the same university, where he teaches subjects like Project Management, Construction Equipment Management, and Management Software Applications. His long-standing role as a Consultant in Civil Engineering since 2007 in the Consulting Engineering Office further reflects his dual capability in theory and fieldwork.

📚 Teaching Experience

Dr. Ahmed has an impressive teaching portfolio spanning more than 20 years, during which he has taught a wide array of civil engineering subjects including Quantitative Surveying, Concrete Materials, Building Materials, Engineering Drawing, and Mathematics. His teaching methodology blends academic rigor with real-world insights, ensuring students receive a holistic learning experience.

🔍 Contributions and Research Focus

During his PhD at QUT (2015–2020), Dr. Ahmed was an active Research Team Member, delving into the implementation of Quality Management Systems (QMS) within the construction industry, particularly in Australia. His research investigates frameworks that facilitate the successful adoption of quality systems, ensuring higher performance and compliance within civil engineering projects.

🧠 Impact and Influence

Dr. Ahmed's influence extends into academic publishing and peer review. He has authored several peer-reviewed papers, including:

  1. The requirements of developing a framework for successful adoption of quality management systems in the construction industry (2017).

  2. An exploration of factors influencing QMS implementation in the Australian construction industry (2020, Doctoral Dissertation).

  3. Effect of montmorillonite clay as aggregate in lightweight concrete cement-free (2022).

He serves as a reviewer for two prominent journals:

  • International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management

  • Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management Journal

His scholarly contributions are widely cited and form the basis for subsequent studies in construction project management and quality assurance.

🧮 Technical Skills

Dr. Ahmed is well-versed in various technical tools and software essential for engineering and research, including:

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)

  • AutoCAD for engineering design

  • EndNote for reference management

  • NVivo for qualitative research analysis
    These proficiencies empower him to conduct in-depth analysis and present data-driven insights effectively.

📑 Academic Workshops & Certifications

While at QUT, he actively participated in numerous training programs and workshops, which enriched his academic and research competencies. These include:

  • Advanced Information Retrieval Skills (IFN001)

  • Language Development Programs (LDP1 & LDP2)

  • Human Research Ethics & Integrity (HREI1)

  • Intermediate NVivo Workshop

  • Survey Methodology & Conference Preparation Workshops
    These experiences underline his commitment to continuous learning and academic excellence.

🧭 Leadership and Departmental Roles

Dr. Ahmed’s leadership skills were demonstrated during his tenure as Assistant Head and Co ordinatorof the Civil Engineering Department between 2007–2014 and again in 2021–2022. His administrative contributions have been instrumental in curriculum design, departmental development, and fostering academic collaborations.

🌍 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Mohammed Ali Ahmed stands as a dedicated academic, seasoned professional, and visionary educator. With a strong foundation in project management and civil engineering, he is committed to advancing sustainable engineering practices, mentoring future engineers, and enriching the academic landscape in Iraq and beyond. His future endeavors are expected to focus on enhancing engineering education, developing region-specific project management models, and continuing his interdisciplinary research in collaboration with international institutions.

📚 Selected Publications

  • Title: The requirements of developing a framework for successful adoption of quality management systems in the construction industry

  • Authors: Ahmed, M. A., Coffey, V., & Xia, B.

  • Journal: World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology: International Journal of Social, Behavioral, Educational, Economic, Business and Industrial Engineering

  • Year: 2017

  • Title: An exploration of factors influencing Quality Management System (QMS) implementation: The case of the Australian construction industry
  • Author: Ahmed, M. A.

  • Type: Doctoral Dissertation

  • Institution: Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

  • Year: 2020

  • Title: Effect of montmorillonite clay as aggregate in lightweight concrete cement-free

  • Authors: Shamsa, M. H., Al-Abdaly, N. M., Ahmed, M. A., & Al-Rammahi, A. A.

  • Journal: Periodicals of Engineering and Natural Sciences

  • Year: 2022

 

 

Dr. Ali Saleh | Transportation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ali Saleh | Transportation | Best Researcher Award

Széchenyi István University, Germany.

Ali Saleh is a dedicated Syrian 🇸🇾 Civil Engineer and Ph.D. researcher specializing in road engineering and sustainable asphalt technology. With years of hands-on experience in both academia and infrastructure development, Ali blends practical engineering skills with cutting-edge research. He is particularly focused on asphalt mixture optimization using AI and neural networks. Currently based in Germany 🇩🇪, Ali seeks to contribute to advanced civil engineering innovations worldwide.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Ali Saleh holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences from Széchenyi István University, Hungary (2020–2024), where he engaged in cutting-edge research within the field of civil engineering. Prior to his doctoral studies, he completed both a Master of Science in Civil Engineering (2015–2019) and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (2007–2013) at Tishreen University, Syria. Dr. Saleh’s academic background showcases a strong foundation in structural analysis, a deep commitment to infrastructure development, and a progressive trajectory in engineering sciences.

💼 Experience

In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Ali Saleh brings valuable professional and teaching experience in the field of civil engineering. He worked as a Civil Engineer at Latakia Port, Syria (2014–2020), where he managed and supervised major infrastructure projects from design through execution, ensuring strict adherence to deadlines and quality standards. Alongside his engineering role, he served as a Lecturer at Tishreen University (2016–2019), where he delivered core civil engineering lectures and guided students academically. He also contributed to technical education as an Instructor at Omega Institute (2018–2019), teaching AutoCAD and Civil 3D to aspiring engineers, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application.

🔬 Research Interests

♻️ Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP)

🧠 Machine Learning & Neural Networks in Civil Engineering

🌱 Sustainable Road Construction

🛣️ Bitumen Foaming and Asphalt Performance

📊 Pavement Testing and ITS/HWTT Data Modeling

🏆 Awards & Innovations

🛠️ Invention: Designed a bitumen foaming machine

🏅 Recognized for contributions in road project sustainability and environmental research at various international conferences.

📚 Selected Publications

🛣️ Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) & Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) Research

1. Machine Learning Modelling the Rut Depth of WMA Mixtures with Variable RAP and Foamed Bitumen Content

Journal: Dorogi i mosti (October 9, 2024)
DOI: 10.36100/dorogimosti2024.30.138
Highlights:

Utilizes machine learning models to predict rutting behavior in WMA.

Investigates performance effects of variable RAP and foamed bitumen levels.

Promotes data-driven pavement design and performance prediction.


2. Modelling Indirect Tensile Strength of Warm Mix Asphalt with Variable RAP Content

Journal: Dorogi i mosti (October 9, 2024)
DOI: 10.36100/dorogimosti2024.30.157
Highlights:

Focuses on indirect tensile strength (ITS) behavior of WMA mixtures.

Models mechanical performance under different RAP inclusion rates.

Supports RAP optimization for maintaining structural integrity.


3. Environmental Impacts of Using Foamed Asphalt

Journal: Dorogi i mosti (April 25, 2023)
DOI: 10.36100/dorogimosti2023.27.296
Highlights:

Evaluates environmental implications of foamed asphalt in road construction.

Considers emissions, energy savings, and recyclability.

Lays groundwork for greener road-building practices.

Prof. Dan Meng | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dan Meng | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Qingdao Agricultural University, China.

Dan Meng is a Professor at Qingdao Agricultural University, specializing in cement-based composite materials. As a Master's supervisor and a council member of the Qingdao Xihaian New District Society for Civil Engineering Investigation and Design, his research focuses on the multi-scale performance of cement and geopolymer-based materials and their functionalized applications. With over 60 academic publications, 30+ patents, and several awards, he has made significant contributions to civil engineering and material science.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Prof. Dan Meng is currently a Visiting Scholar at Western Sydney University. With a strong academic and professional background in civil engineering, he has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in structural engineering and construction materials. As a dedicated member of the Chinese Society for Civil Engineering, Prof. Meng actively participates in research collaborations, technical discussions, and knowledge exchange initiatives aimed at advancing the discipline. His expertise and commitment to innovation continue to influence both academia and industry, fostering sustainable and resilient infrastructure development.

💼 Experience

Professor Dan Meng is a distinguished faculty member at Qingdao Agricultural University, where he plays a pivotal role in advancing civil engineering education and research. As a Council Member of the Qingdao Xihaian New District Society for Civil Engineering Investigation and Design, he actively contributes to the development of engineering standards and best practices. With a strong research portfolio, he has successfully led 17 completed and ongoing research projects, addressing critical challenges in civil engineering. Additionally, his expertise extends to industry and consultancy, where he has been involved in 12 impactful projects, bridging the gap between academia and practical engineering solutions.

🔬 Research Interests

Cement-Based Composite Materials 🏗️

Geopolymer-Based Materials 🔬

Multi-Scale Performance of Construction Materials 📏

Functionalized Applications of Cementitious Materials

🏆 Awards & Achievements

🏅 Second Prize – Science & Technology Progress (Department & Bureau Level)

🏅 Second Prize – Humanities & Social Sciences (Shandong Provincial University Level)

🏅 Second Prize – Social Sciences (Qingdao Level)

📚 Publications

Experimental and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study on Sulfate Corrosion Resistance of Cellulose-Nanocrystal-Modified ECC

Authors: L. Yu, X. Xu, S. Ni, X. Meng, B. Xu

Journal: Applied Sciences (Switzerland), 2025

Focus: Investigates sulfate corrosion resistance in engineered cementitious composites (ECC) modified with cellulose nanocrystals using experimental and molecular dynamics simulations.

Citations: 0

Study on Improving the Performance of Engineered Cement-Based Composites by Modifying Binder System and Polyethylene Fiber/Matrix Interface

Authors: Q. Fan, Y. Zheng, D. Meng, Y. Liu, H. Wu

Journal: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 2025

Focus: Enhances ECC performance through binder system modification and fiber/matrix interface improvements.

Citations: 1

 

 

Ms. Chia Min Ho | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Chia Min Ho | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Beihang University, Malaysia.

Prof. Ho Chia Min is a dedicated researcher and academic specializing in Environmental Engineering, Materials Science, and Sustainable Materials. With expertise in structural engineering, he focuses on developing innovative materials for construction and environmental sustainability. Currently pursuing a PhD in Environmental Science (Materials Science and Engineering) at Beijing Aeronautics and Astronautics University, China, he has a strong academic background and professional experience in research and industry. His work has been recognized through multiple publications in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to the advancement of eco-friendly and high-performance construction materials.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Ms. Chia Min Ho is an emerging researcher in environmental science and materials engineering, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Science (Materials Science and Engineering) at Beijing Aeronautics and Astronautics University, China (2024 – Present). She holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering (Materials and Structures) from University Malaysia Pahang (2021 – 2023) and a Bachelor’s Degree (Hons) in Civil Engineering from the same university (2017 – 2021). Her academic journey began with a Diploma in Civil Engineering from Polytechnic Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, Malaysia (2014 – 2017). With a strong foundation in civil and materials engineering, her research interests focus on sustainable construction materials, structural performance, and environmental-friendly innovations in engineering.

💼 Experience

Ms. Chia Min Ho is a dedicated Civil and Structural Engineer with experience in both industry and research. She has been working at Brown Consulting Pte Ltd, Singapore from October 2022 to September 2024, where she specializes in designing and analyzing structural systems for commercial and residential projects. Her role involves conducting site assessments, ensuring compliance with safety and building codes, and preparing technical reports and presentations for clients.

Before this, she served as a Research Assistant at University Malaysia Pahang, Malaysia from October 2021 to October 2022. During this time, she contributed to research in structural engineering and material science, developing testing methodologies, analyzing experimental data, and assisting in the publication of research findings. Her combined experience in both practical engineering and academic research makes her a well-rounded professional in the field of civil and structural engineering.

🔬 Research Interests

Environmental Engineering – Sustainable construction materials and eco-friendly practices

Materials Engineering – Development of high-performance and durable building materials

Sustainable Materials – Utilizing industrial byproducts like steel slag in cement and concrete applications

Structural Engineering – Evaluating material performance under extreme conditions (elevated temperatures, water absorption, etc.)

🏆 Awards & Honors

Young Researcher Excellence Award – Recognized for outstanding contributions to environmental and materials engineering research

Best Paper Award – Awarded for innovative research on cement replacement using steel slag

Top 10 Emerging Scientists in Materials Engineering – Recognized for advancements in sustainable materials

📚 Selected Publications

1️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Chin, S. C., & Li, X. (2024). The effect of particle sizes of steel slag as cement replacement in high strength concrete under elevated temperatures. Construction and Building Materials, 411, 134531. (Cited by: 0)

2️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Chin, S. C., & Li, X. (2023). Prediction of concrete residual compressive strength under elevated temperatures: Response surface methodology (RSM) approach. Materials Today: Proceedings. (Cited by: 0)

3️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Jing, G., Chin, S. C., & Li, X. (2023, May). Investigation of superplasticizer dosage on fresh and hardened properties of steel slag mortar. AIP Conference Proceedings, 2688(1).  (Cited by: 0)

4️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Li, X., Chin, S. C., & Ashraf, T. (2022). RSM-based modelling of cement mortar with various water-to-cement ratio and steel slag content. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, 128, 103256. (Cited by: 3)

5️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Al-Btoush, A. M., Li, X., & Chin, S. C. (2022). The impact of alkali activator dosage on the compressive strength and water absorption of steel slag concrete. Materials Today: Proceedings, 51, 1323-1326. (Cited by: 2)

Prof. Dr. Dimitrios Sophianopoulos | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Dimitrios Sophianopoulos | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Department of Civil ENgineering/University of Thessalu, Greece

Prof. Dr. Dimitrios S. Sophianopoulos is a renowned Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Thessaly, known for his pioneering work in structural engineering, earthquake dynamics, and nonlinear analysis. With over 42 years of professional experience, he has made substantial contributions to academia, industry, and research, bridging the gap between theory and practical applications in civil engineering.

Profile

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Education 🎓

Prof. Sophianopoulos holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, which laid the foundation for his impactful research career. His educational background is enriched with advanced studies in structural stability and dynamic response, focusing on optimizing the design and safety of civil structures.

Experience 🏢

With more than four decades of experience, Prof. Sophianopoulos has supervised numerous Diploma, Master’s, and Ph.D. theses. He has also served as an editor for several high-impact journals and contributed to over 60 consultancy projects in collaboration with engineers and architects worldwide. His professional engagements include teaching as a visiting scholar in Russia and consulting for the steel industry in China.

Research Interests 🔬

Nonlinear Elastic and Plastic Analysis of Steel Structures 🔧

Prof. Sophianopoulos’ research in this area focuses on the nonlinear behavior of steel structures under various load conditions. He explores both elastic and plastic deformation mechanisms, which are essential for understanding the performance and failure modes of steel in real-world applications. This research contributes to the design optimization of structures, ensuring they can withstand extreme conditions while maintaining structural integrity.

Stability Analysis of Bridges and Offshore Structures 🌉

Another significant area of Prof. Sophianopoulos' research is the stability analysis of bridges and offshore structures. This includes both static and dynamic stability assessments, considering factors such as environmental loads, seismic activity, and material degradation. The goal is to develop safety guidelines and design protocols that improve the durability and performance of critical infrastructure, ensuring public safety and operational efficiency.

Earthquake Engineering – Static and Dynamic Stability 🌍

Prof. Sophianopoulos is dedicated to advancing earthquake engineering, particularly in the analysis and design of structures to withstand seismic events. His work on static and dynamic stability addresses the structural response to seismic forces, including ground motion effects and vibration control. This research is crucial for enhancing the earthquake resistance of buildings and infrastructures, minimizing damage, and saving lives during natural disasters.

Masonry Structures and Greenhouse Design 🏠

Prof. Sophianopoulos also investigates the structural performance of masonry and greenhouses. His research in masonry structures focuses on improving the design and safety of these traditional buildings, which are widely used in urban and rural environments. Additionally, he has worked extensively on the design and analysis of commercial greenhouses, particularly those made of steel, aluminum, and wood. His work in this area supports sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring that greenhouses are not only functional but also optimized for energy efficiency and durability.

Innovative Solutions for Structural Resilience and Sustainability 🏗️

Prof. Sophianopoulos’ overarching aim is to develop innovative engineering solutions that enhance structural resilience and sustainability. Whether in the context of earthquake engineering, bridge stability, or greenhouse design, his work seeks to create structures that are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly, contributing to long-term sustainability and safety in civil engineering.

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

Prof. Sophianopoulos’ excellence in research and teaching has earned him recognition across various engineering societies, including membership in prestigious organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Structural Stability Research Council (SSRC), and the International Society of Computational Engineering and Sciences (ISCES).

Publications Top Notes 📚

Mathematical Macromodeling of Infilled Frames: State of the Art,

Authors: PG Asteris, ST Antoniou, DS Sophianopoulos, CZ Chrysostomou,

Journal: Journal of Structural Engineering, Volume/Issue: 137(12), 1508-1517, Year: 2011, Cited By: 455. Link

The Effect of a Moving Mass and Other Parameters on the Dynamic Response of a Simply Supported Beam

Authors: G Michaltsos, D Sophianopoulos, AN Kounadis

Journal: Journal of Sound and Vibration

Volume/Issue: 191(3), 357-362, Year: 1996, Cited By: 280. Link

Steel Beam-to-Column RBS Connections with European Profiles: I. Static Optimization

Authors: DS Sophianopoulos, AE Deri

Journal: Journal of Constructional Steel Research

Volume/Issue: 139, 101-109, Year: 2017, Cited By: 72. Link

The Effect of Joint Flexibility on the Free Elastic Vibration Characteristics of Steel Plane Frames

Author: DS Sophianopoulos

Journal: Journal of Constructional Steel Research

Volume/Issue: 59(8), 995-1008, Year: 2003, Cited By: 51. Link

Parameters Affecting Response and Design of Steel Moment Frame Reduced Beam Section Connections: An Overview

Authors: DS Sophianopoulos, AE Deri

Journal: International Journal of Steel Structures

Volume/Issue: 11, 133-144, Year: 2011, Cited By: 45. Link