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

Abdul Haseeb | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Abdul Haseeb | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Abdul Haseeb | University of Engineering and Technology | Pakistan

Mr.  Abdul Haseeb is a passionate and dedicated mechanical engineering student at the University of Engineering and Technology, Mardan. He strives to combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills to design innovative mechanical systems. Being fluent in English, Urdu, and Pushto, and with basic proficiency in Russian, Abdul excels in collaborating across diverse environments. His commitment to continuous learning, teamwork, and hands-on engineering makes him a promising young talent in the field. Whether solving complex mechanical problems or experimenting with equipment, Abdul approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and a strong drive for excellence.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Mr. Abdul is currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Engineering and Technology, Mardan, where he has developed expertise in CAD design and engineering principles. Prior to this, he completed his FSc at Government Post Graduate College, Mardan, where he strengthened his leadership skills as a class representative. His academic foundation began at Army Public School and College, where he actively participated in debates, science fairs, and community-building activities. These experiences have shaped his analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and passion for mechanical innovation.

Experience

Although in the early stages of his professional journey, Abdul has built a strong technical foundation through academic projects and personal initiatives. His experience includes working with CAD tools such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD, performing engineering analysis in areas like statics, dynamics, and thermodynamics, and applying programming skills in C language. His growing expertise in simulations and research equips him to handle academic and industry-related challenges effectively. Through consistent learning and practice, Abdul continues to strengthen his practical knowledge and technical confidence, preparing for future engineering opportunities.

Research Interest

Mr. Abdul’s research interests are centered on mechanical systems design, CAD modeling and simulation, and the creation of sustainable and efficient mechanical solutions. He is intrigued by integrating engineering design with computational tools and programming to solve real-world challenges. His curiosity extends to automation and robotics, where he aims to explore advanced simulation and optimization techniques. Abdul aspires to contribute to innovative research that bridges traditional mechanical engineering principles with modern digital advancements, driving progress in the field.

Awards

Mr. Abdul has been recognized for his academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular engagement throughout his education. At the university, his performance in CAD earned high distinction. In college, he served as a class representative, demonstrating leadership and organizational skills. During his school years, he actively participated in debates, speeches, and science exhibitions, gaining recognition for his innovative thinking and teamwork. These achievements reflect his adaptability, determination, and commitment to continuous personal and academic growth.

Publication 

Title: Drone Frame Optimization via Simulation and 3D Printing
Authors: Faris Kateb, Abdul Haseeb, Syed Misbah-Un-Noor, Bandar M. Alghamdi, Fazal Qudus Khan, Bilal Khan, Abdul Baseer, Masood Iqbal Marwat, Sadeeq Jan
Journal: Computers – MDPI

Conclusion

Mr. Abdul Haseeb represents the qualities of a dedicated learner and emerging mechanical engineer. With a strong academic foundation, practical technical skills, and a vision for innovative solutions, he is well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to the field. His adaptability, collaborative approach, and passion for continuous growth position him as a future leader in mechanical engineering. As he progresses in his academic and professional journey, Abdul remains committed to using his skills to create impactful engineering solutions that benefit both industry and society.

Mona Salam | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mona Salam | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mona Salam | Unveristy Of Technology Sydney | Australia

Dr. Mona Salam is a Senior Lecturer in Construction Project Management at the University of Technology Sydney, bringing extensive expertise in interdisciplinary collaboration and resilient housing. Holding a PhD in Design Management from UTS, a Master of Engineering Studies in Construction Management from the University of Auckland, and a Bachelor in Civil (Structural) Engineering from Ain Shams University, she combines deep theoretical knowledge with practical engineering and academic leadership. Her teaching spans project strategy, construction technology, and professional practice, while her research focuses on collaborative design processes, inclusion in built environments, and climate resilience. Dr. Salam leads Women in Built Environment (WiBE), supporting hundreds of students through mentorship and development. Her work is driven by innovation and social equity, bridging academic rigour with real-world impact.

Profile

Orcid

Education 

Dr. Mona Salam’s academic journey reflects a strong interdisciplinary foundation in civil and construction engineering. She earned her Bachelor of Civil Engineering with a specialization in Structural Engineering from Ain Shams University in Cairo, equipping her with a robust understanding of engineering principles. She then pursued a Master of Engineering Studies in Construction Management at the University of Auckland, where she developed advanced skills in managing complex construction projects. Dr. Salam completed her PhD in Design Management at the University of Technology Sydney, where her doctoral research emphasized collaborative processes in construction design and delivery. This progression from technical engineering into construction management and design strategy has enabled her to approach project challenges holistically, integrating structural rigor with design coordination and management strategies.

Experience 

Dr. Salam’s academic career spans over a decade of progressive roles at the University of Technology Sydney. Beginning as a subject coordinator and tutor, she supported core modules in construction technology, project management, and structures. She then advanced to Lecturer in Built Environment, leading and delivering modules such as Managing a Construction Business and Project Management Integration. As a Senior Lecturer, she now coordinates courses in Project Strategy & Leadership, Construction Technology, and Professional Practice. Her leadership extends beyond teaching, contributing to key faculty committees including the DAB Faculty Board, Workload Committee, Education Quality Committee, and the First and Further Year Experience (FFYE) transition initiative. This combination of teaching excellence, curriculum innovation, and institutional service reflects her dedication to advancing both academic programs and the broader educational environment.

Research Interests

Dr. Salam’s research centers on enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration, inclusion, and resilience within the built environment. Her work in “Assessing Interdisciplinary Collaboration in the Detailed Design Phase of Construction Projects” (2024) uses practice-based inter-organisational theory to examine how trust, defined roles, and iterative cost alignment facilitate effective teamwork in complex design phases. In her chapter “Australian Case: Black Summer Bushfires” ), she developed a retrofit toolkit tailored for older Australians in bushfire-prone regions, based on case studies in Bega Valley and Noosa Shires. Funded by national grants, the toolkit addresses accessibility and resilience for vulnerable rural populations . Her broader interests encompass inclusive design, women’s experiences in construction education and workplace settings, and climate-resilient housing solutions shaped by community-centred methodologies.

Awards 

Dr. Mona Salam’s leadership and innovative teaching have been recognized through several recent honors. she received an Honourable Mention for Innovative Use of Technology and Learning in Education, highlighting her integration of advanced digital tools to enhance student engagement. That same year, she earned an Award for Academic Leadership, acknowledging her strategic contributions in curriculum development and student support. Beyond these accolades, Dr. Salam serves as Academic Lead for Women in Built Environment (WiBE), where she leads a strategic initiative supporting female students in Construction Project Management and Property Economics. Through the WiBE Canvas platform, she provides academic, professional, and wellness support, secures scholarships, and fosters industry partnerships—demonstrating her commitment to equity and community impact within the built environment sector.

Publication Top Notes

Developing Multi-Modal Communication Tools for Retrofit Guidance in Ageing Bushfire-Prone Communities

Collaboration in the Detailed Design Phase of Construction Projects – A Study of Interdisciplinary Teams

Exploring Interdisciplinary Collaboration in the Detailed Design Phase of Construction Projects

Exploring Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Construction: Phases and Patterns of Interaction in Detailed Design Meetings

Collaboration to Improve Constructability in Detailed Design Phase – Can BIM and Relational Contracting Help?

Conclusion 

Dr. Mona Salam exemplifies a forward-thinking academic whose work bridges technical expertise, collaborative innovation, and social equity in the built environment. With a solid educational foundation and progressive academic roles, she brings insight and leadership to construction management and design strategy. Her research push boundaries—from facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration and enhancing design delivery, to crafting climate-resilient solutions tailored for vulnerable communities. Recognized for her pedagogical innovation and leadership, Dr. Salam also champions inclusion and women’s advancement through WiBE. Her combined focus on resilience, equity, and collaboration positions her as a visionary contributor to both academia and practice, making her an outstanding nominee for any award recognizing excellence and impact in construction education and research.

Mr. Runhui Xiang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Runhui Xiang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Sun Yat-sen University, China.

Runhui Xiang is a Master's student in mechanical engineering at the School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China. He holds a B.E. degree in robot engineering from Beijing Information Science and Technology University, earned in 2022. Runhui’s research focuses on cable-driven space manipulators and compliance control, contributing innovative solutions to enhance motion stability and position accuracy in advanced robotics systems.

Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓

Runhui Xiang is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at the School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China. Building on his strong foundation in robotics, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Robot Engineering in 2022 from the Beijing Information Science and Technology University, Beijing, China. His academic journey reflects a dedication to advancing technologies in robotics and aerospace engineering, with a focus on innovative solutions for space manipulation and compliance control systems.

Experience 💼

Runhui Xiang is conducting advanced research in cable-driven space manipulators at Sun Yat-sen University, focusing on innovative control systems for precision and adaptability in space environments. He has developed a force–position hybrid drive model that dynamically adjusts force output, enabling the manipulator to maintain motion stability while achieving precise positioning. This breakthrough balances force flexibility and positional accuracy, addressing key challenges in traditional control methods and advancing the field of space robotics.

Research Interests 🔬

Cable-Driven Space Manipulators: Improving position accuracy and motion stability.

Compliance Control: Leveraging force–position hybrid drive modes and admittance models to adapt robotic systems to external environmental changes.

Publication 📚

Compliance Control of a Cable-Driven Space Manipulator Based on Force–Position Hybrid Drive Mode
Journal: Aerospace
Published: 2025-01-19
Contributors: Runhui Xiang, Hejie Xu, Xinliang Li, Xiaojun Zhu, Deshan Meng, Wenfu Xu

 

 

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mohamed A. Karali | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Mohamed A. Karali | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Future University, Egypt

Dr. Eng. Mohamed A. Karali is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Future University in Egypt. With a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany, he specializes in thermo-fluid sciences and renewable energy applications. He has extensive experience in experimental work, modeling, and simulation using advanced tools like ANSYS and MATLAB.

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

Education 🎓

Dr. Mohamed A. Karali holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany (2015), where his thesis focused on the analysis of axial transport and heat transfer in a flighted rotary drum under optimal loading conditions. He earned his M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering in 2007 from the Faculty of Engineering, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt, with a thesis evaluating the performance of vapor compression refrigeration systems using environmentally safe alternatives to R22. Dr. Karali completed his B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering at the same institution in 2001, with a graduation project analyzing condensation characteristics of R22 and its eco-friendly substitutes. His academic journey reflects a strong emphasis on thermodynamic systems and environmentally sustainable engineering solutions.

Experience 🛠️

Dr. Mohamed A. Karali has been serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Future University in Egypt since 2015. Prior to this role, he contributed as a Ph.D. researcher and tutor at Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany, from 2012 to 2015, where he conducted advanced research in mechanical engineering. From 2008 to 2012, he worked as an Assistant Lecturer at the Faculty of Engineering, Future University in Egypt. His earlier career includes experience as a researcher and tutor at the Faculty of Engineering, Helwan University, Egypt, from 2002 to 2007, showcasing his extensive academic and research expertise.

Research Interests 🔬

Thermo-Fluid Sciences

Expertise in heat transfer mechanisms within HVAC systems, focusing on enhancing energy efficiency and performance.

 Granular Materials Processing

Investigations into the dynamics and thermal behaviors of materials in rotary kilns, dryers, and coolers for industrial applications.

 Renewable Energy Systems

Researching sustainable energy solutions, including system design and application for improved environmental outcomes.

 Image Processing for Experimental Studies

Utilization of advanced image analysis techniques to support experimental research, enhancing accuracy and data interpretation.

Awards 🏆

First Prize: Joint Conference of 5th UK-China and 13th UK Particle Technology Forum, 2015.

Recipient of multiple research grants and industrial collaborations in energy and heat transfer projects.

Publications Top Notes 📚

Karali, M. A., et al. Comparison of using air, CO2, and helium for the cooling of square-shaped electronic parts CFD study with entropy generation analysis. Thermal Science, 2024. Link

Karali, M. A., et al. Numerical investigation of thermal performance enhancement of pin fin heat sink using wings with different angles. Ain Shams Engineering Journal, 2024. Link

Karali, M. A., et al. CFD study on the effect of tube diameter and count on flow distribution uniformity in a Z disposition. Thermal Science, 2023. Link

Karali, M. A., et al. Fluid flow characteristics for four lattice settings in brick tunnel kiln: CFD simulations. Buildings MPDI, 2023. Link

Karali, M. A., et al. Effect of surface roughness of a staggered tube bank in cross flow with air on heat transfer and pressure drop. Case Studies in Thermal Engineering, 2023. Link