Kicheol Lee | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kicheol Lee | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kicheol Lee | Halla University/RISE Project Group | South Korea

Dr. Kicheol Lee is a research professor specializing in civil and structural engineering, with a strong record in foundation engineering, numerical modelling, and new technology development. His work spans artificial intelligence (machine learning, deep learning), probabilistic and statistical methods, field applications in geotechnical/tunnel/foundation engineering, and reliability-based design (LRFD). He has been recognized with multiple best paper and presentation awards from the Korea Geosynthetics Society and the Korea Geotechnical Society. His expertise in numerical simulation (particularly via ABAQUS), and integration of AI/ML with civil engineering systems, has made him a leading figure in predictive modeling, anomaly detection, and structural reliability. Dr. Lee’s contribution lies in bridging advanced computational methods with practical engineering challenges, especially in ensuring safety, resilience, and sustainability of infrastructure. Dr. Lee’s current research is deeply interdisciplinary, merging geotechnical engineering, structural health monitoring, and intelligent systems to create safer, data-driven infrastructure solutions.His ongoing work under the Gangwon RISE Project aims to transform urban safety and sustainability by employing augmented and virtual reality technologies for real-time disaster visualization and early warning.

Author’s Profile

Scopus | Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Kicheol Lee began his academic journey in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Incheon National University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree (2015), Master’s degree (2017), and Doctorate (Ph.D., 2021). His early research concentrated on geotechnical and foundation engineering, particularly the mechanical behavior of pile groups and the evaluation of soil–structure interactions through numerical and experimental methods. His doctoral dissertation, “Evaluation of Resistance Factors of Pile Groups Consisting of Drilled Shafts Embedded in Sandy Ground under Axial Load through Numerical Analysis,” established his expertise in reliability-based foundation design (LRFD) and computational modeling using ABAQUS, laying the groundwork for his later innovations in smart infrastructure systems.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Lee’s professional career seamlessly bridges academia, industry, and national research initiatives, reflecting his commitment to advancing digitally enhanced civil infrastructure technologies. He currently serves as a Research Professor at Halla University under the RISE Project Group (since September 2025), where he leads the Gangwon RISE Project focused on developing advanced safety and green city technologies through the integration of Digital Twin and 3D data. Prior to this role, he was a Principal Researcher at the Korea Institute of Structural Integrity Research (2024–2025), where he led national R&D projects centered on innovative construction technologies and safety inspection systems. From 2021 to 2024, he served as Research Director at UCI Tech Co., Ltd., managing government-funded initiatives that merged IoT and augmented reality (AR) technologies for infrastructure maintenance and smart monitoring applications. Across these roles, Dr. Lee has demonstrated a clear progression from applied geotechnical engineering toward the fusion of engineering mechanics, intelligent systems, and data science to create more resilient, sustainable, and intelligent civil infrastructure.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Lee’s interdisciplinary research bridges geotechnical engineering with artificial intelligence, probability, and information technologies to develop data-driven and intelligent systems for the monitoring, design, and maintenance of civil infrastructures. His expertise spans artificial intelligence—particularly the application of convolutional and recurrent neural networks (CNNs and RNNs) for anomaly detection, predictive modeling, and data-driven decision-making in structural health monitoring—as well as foundation and tunnel engineering, focusing on advanced modeling and soil–structure interaction analysis. He is also skilled in numerical analysis using ABAQUS to simulate complex geotechnical phenomena and evaluate soil–structure responses. In addition, Dr. Lee integrates reliability and probabilistic design principles through statistical modeling, Monte Carlo simulations, and Bayesian inference within LRFD-based design frameworks. His innovative contributions extend to smart infrastructure and safety systems, including the development of AI-enabled inspection robots, reversible thermochromic materials for black-ice prevention, and UAV-based soil monitoring systems utilizing hyperspectral imaging. He has led or contributed to 11 major national R&D projects funded by various Korean ministries—including those of Education, Environment, Land, Transport, Industry, and SMEs & Startups—addressing challenges in smart cities, environmental protection, and disaster prevention, all aimed at advancing sustainable and resilient civil infrastructure.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Lee’s scholarly influence is reflected in his prolific publication record, with over 50 peer-reviewed journal papers—15 indexed in SCI/SCI(E), 34 in Korean journals, and 2 in Scopus. His research has appeared in leading international journals such as Applied Sciences, Sustainability, Remote Sensing, Polymers, and Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology. His academic excellence has been recognized through several prestigious awards, including the Best Paper Presentation Awards from the Korea Geosynthetics Society and the Korea Geotechnical Society in 2020, and the Best Paper Award from the Korea Geosynthetics Society in 2019. Complementing his scholarly achievements, Dr. Lee holds 15 registered patents in the Republic of Korea, showcasing his technological innovation in civil engineering through the development of smart barriers, reversible paints for road safety, and advanced pile systems. Beyond research, he actively contributes to the professional community as an Editorial Board Member of the Korea Geosynthetics Society (2024–Present), and as Assistant Administrator of both the Low-Carbon Construction Committee and the Incheon Regional Committee of the Korean Geotechnical Society (since 2023). Through these roles, Dr. Lee fosters academic collaboration, encourages the dissemination of innovation, and advances sustainable engineering practices in the civil infrastructure domain.

Academic Cites

Dr. Lee’s work is frequently cited in research concerning geotechnical reliability, foundation engineering, and smart civil technologies. His papers on hyperspectral soil analysis and negative skin friction in piles have become valuable references in data-integrated geotechnical research. By bridging machine learning with traditional civil engineering models, his methodologies have influenced new approaches to predictive maintenance and risk-based infrastructure management in both academia and industry.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Kicheol Lee embodies a new generation of civil engineers who seamlessly integrate artificial intelligence, sustainability, and resilience into traditional infrastructure systems. His pioneering work on AI-driven monitoring, Digital Twin simulations, and smart geotechnical materials is reshaping the future of infrastructure safety and environmental protection. Looking ahead, Dr. Lee aspires to expand the application of augmented reality (AR) and digital twin technologies for real-time disaster prediction and response, develop autonomous robotic systems for structural inspection and maintenance, and contribute to global initiatives promoting smart and sustainable urban development in the face of climate change. His long-term vision is centered on building data-informed, intelligent, and resilient civil infrastructure systems that not only enhance public safety and operational efficiency but also minimize environmental impact—paving the way for the realization of next-generation smart and sustainable cities.

Featured Publications

Lee, K. (2024). Verification of construction method for smart liners to prevent oil spill spread in onshore. Sustainability, 16(23), 10626. https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310626

Lee, K. (2023). Proposal of construction method of smart liner to block and detect spreading of soil contaminants by oil spill. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(2), 940. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20020940

Lee, K. (2022). Spectrum index for estimating ground water content using hyperspectral information. Sustainability, 14(21), 14318. https://doi.org/10.3390/su142114318

Lee, K. (2022). Prediction of ground water content using hyperspectral information through laboratory test. Sustainability, 14(17), 10999. https://doi.org/10.3390/su141710999

Lee, K. (2021). Analysis of vertical earth pressure acting on box culverts through centrifuge model test. Applied Sciences, 12(1), 81. https://doi.org/10.3390/app12010081

Lee, K. (2020). Numerical analysis of the contact behavior of a polymer-based waterproof membrane for tunnel lining. Polymers, 12(11), 2704. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym12112704

Lee, K. (2020). Analysis of effects of rock physical properties changes from freeze–thaw weathering in Ny-Ålesund region: Part 2—Correlations and prediction of weathered properties. Applied Sciences, 10(10), 3392. https://doi.org/10.3390/app10103392

Lee, K. (2020). Analysis of effects of rock physical properties changes from freeze–thaw weathering in Ny-Ålesund region: Part 1—Experimental study. Applied Sciences, 10(5), 1707. https://doi.org/10.3390/app10051707

P. Amala Vijaya Sri | Engineering | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. P. Amala Vijaya Sri | Engineering | Young Scientist Award

 Assistant Professor of Vignan’s Lara Institute of Technology and Science, India

Dr. P. Amala Vijaya Sri is an Assistant Professor in the ECE Department at Vignan’s Lara Institute of Technology and Science, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India 📍. With a year of teaching experience 📚, she has taught Computer Architecture and Organisation (CAO) and Digital Signal Processing (DSP). She has 6 SCI and 7 Scopus publications 📄, and 2 papers under review. Previously, she worked as a JRF/SRF on a SERB, DST project and now serves as the Research Head for the ECE department. Her research focuses on microstrip patch antennas for wireless and biomedical applications 📡🔬.

Professional Profile:

Education🎓

Dr. P. Amala Vijaya Sri holds a Ph.D. in Electronics and Communication Engineering 🎓. She has a strong academic background with a specialization in microstrip patch antennas for wireless and biomedical applications 📡🔬. Her education journey equipped her with extensive knowledge and research skills, enabling her to publish 6 SCI and 7 Scopus-indexed papers 📄. As a dedicated educator and researcher, Dr. Amala Vijaya Sri continually strives to contribute to her field through innovative research and effective teaching methods, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for her students 📚🌟.

Professional Experience 📚

Dr. P. Amala Vijaya Sri is an Assistant Professor at Vignan’s Lara Institute of Technology and Science 📚. With one year of teaching experience, she has instructed students in Computer Architecture and Organisation (CAO) and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) 🎓. Previously, she served as a JRF/SRF on a SERB, DST-sponsored project, gaining valuable research experience 🔬. She has published 6 SCI and 7 Scopus-indexed papers and has 2 more under review 📄. Currently, she leads as the Research Head for the Electronics and Communication Engineering department, driving innovation and academic excellence in her field 🌟.

Research Interest 🔍

Dr. P. Amala Vijaya Sri’s research interests lie in the development and application of microstrip patch antennas for wireless and biomedical applications 📡🔬. Her work focuses on advancing antenna technology to improve communication systems and medical devices. With 6 SCI and 7 Scopus publications 📄, she has made significant contributions to her field. Dr. Amala Vijaya Sri is committed to pushing the boundaries of antenna design and exploring innovative solutions to enhance wireless communication and healthcare technologies, aiming to make a positive impact on society through her research 🌟.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. P. Amala Vijaya Sri has received notable recognition for her contributions to research and academia 🌟. She has been honored with the role of Research Head for the Electronics and Communication Engineering department at Vignan’s Lara Institute of Technology and Science 🎓. Her work has led to 6 SCI and 7 Scopus-indexed publications 📄, showcasing her expertise and dedication. Additionally, she has been a key researcher on a prestigious SERB, DST-sponsored project, reflecting her commitment to advancing technological innovation and academic excellence 🔬🏅.

Research Skills🌟

Dr. P. Amala Vijaya Sri possesses advanced research skills in the field of Electronics and Communication Engineering, particularly in microstrip patch antennas 📡🔬. Her expertise includes designing, analyzing, and optimizing antennas for wireless and biomedical applications. With 6 SCI and 7 Scopus publications 📄, she demonstrates a strong ability to conduct high-quality research, communicate findings effectively, and contribute to the academic community. Dr. Amala Vijaya Sri is adept at utilizing advanced research methodologies and collaborating with peers to drive innovation and solve complex engineering problems, showcasing her dedication to advancing technology and improving societal outcomes 🌟.

Achievements🏆

  • Published 6 SCI and 7 Scopus-indexed papers, advancing microstrip patch antenna technology 📄📡🔬.
  • Appointed as Research Head for the Electronics and Communication Engineering department at Vignan’s Lara Institute of Technology and Science 🎓.
  • Successfully completed a SERB, DST-sponsored project as a JRF/SRF, showcasing her research expertise 🔬🏅.
  • Instructed courses in Computer Architecture and Organisation (CAO) and Digital Signal Processing (DSP), contributing to academic excellence 📚.
  • Communicated 2 additional papers to SCI journals, demonstrating ongoing research and commitment to the field ✍️.

Publications📄📚

  • Design of hexadecagon circular patch antenna with DGS at Ku band for satellite communications
    Authors: KK Naik, PAV Sri
    Journal: Progress In Electromagnetics Research M
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 86
    📡📄
  • Design of concentric circular ring patch with DGS for dual-band at satellite communication and radar applications
    Authors: K Kumar Naik, P Amala Vijaya Sri
    Journal: Wireless Personal Communications
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 36
    📡📄
  • Design of flexible parasitic element patch antenna for biomedical application
    Authors: KK Naik, SCS Teja, BV Sailaja, PA Sri
    Journal: Progress In Electromagnetics Research M
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 34
    🏥📡📄
  • Analysis of wideband circular ring with rectangular patch antenna for airborne radar application
    Authors: PAV Sri, N Yasasvini, M Anjum, AV Manikanta, D Harsha, G Dattatreya, …
    Conference: 2017 International Conference of Electronics, Communication and Aerospace
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 13
    🛫📡📄
  • Enhancement of gain with coplanar isosceles triangular patch antenna for dual-band applications
    Authors: PAV Sri, G Srikanth, BV Krishna, K Kousalya, SR Lavanya, K Ooha, …
    Conference: 2017 Progress in Electromagnetics Research Symposium-Fall (PIERS-FALL)
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 12
    📡📄
  • Design of implantable monopole inset-feed C-shaped slot patch antenna for bio-medical applications
    Authors: KK Naik, PAV Sri, J Srilakshmi
    Conference: IEEE (PIERS — FALL)
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 10
    🏥📡📄
  • Design of Concentric Ring Slot on Bow-Tie Antenna with Defected Ground Structure
    Authors: KO K. Kumar Naik, T. Srinivasa Reddy, S. Rama Lavanya, T. Prasanthi, P …
    Conference: IEEE Conference
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 7*
    📡📄
  • Design of Annular Circular Ring Fractal Patch Monopole Antenna for Wireless Applications
    Authors: PAVS K. Kumar Naik
    Journal: International Journal of Microwave and Optical Technology
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 3*
    📡📄
  • Analysis and design of trapezoidal shape CSRR rectangular patch antenna for wireless communications
    Authors: KNK P. Amala Vijaya Sri
    Journal: Microwave and Optical Technology Letters
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 2
    📡📄
  • U-Slotted Elliptical Shape Patch Antenna for UWB On-Body Communications
    Authors: PAV Sri, KK Naik
    Journal: Progress In Electromagnetics Research Letters
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 2
    📡📄