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

Sarika Keswani | Business | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Sarika Keswani | Business | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Sarika Keswani | Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies Nagpur | India

Dr. Sarika Keswani is a distinguished educator and researcher thriving at Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies in Nagpur. With a solid foundation in commerce, finance, and research methodology, she has cultivated a career that reflects both academic rigor and pedagogical excellence. Her tenure at multiple prestigious institutions has honed her expertise in guiding students through the complexities of financial markets and corporate behavior. As an active contributor to academic development, she has taken on roles that span from curriculum coordination to overseeing international collaborations, all while maintaining a vibrant and student-centric classroom. Her work integrates theory with real-world insights, making her a respected figure among peers and students alike.

Profiles

Scopus
Orcid

Education

Dr. Keswani’s academic journey encompasses comprehensive studies across commerce, management, and financial research. She earned advanced degrees from premier Indian universities, culminating in a doctoral degree from Symbiosis International University in Pune. Her postgraduate and research training at Jiwaji University, Gwalior, and IGNOU Delhi provided a solid grounding in accounting, finance, and scholarly inquiry. This diversified educational experience laid the groundwork for her multidisciplinary interests, including behavioral finance and macroeconomic analysis. Her academic foundation fosters a nuanced understanding of both traditional and contemporary paradigms, enabling her to approach complex financial phenomena with analytical depth and clarity.

Experience

Dr. Keswani’s professional trajectory reflects a dynamic academic career across multiple institutions. She embraced roles that blended teaching, administrative coordination, and academic stewardship. Her earlier appointments allowed her to shape management education while nurturing emerging talent, eventually leading her to Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies, Nagpur. There, she assumed broader responsibilities, including oversight of international programs and quality assurance processes. In every setting, she remains committed to fostering inclusive learning environments, advancing curriculum development, and supporting student success. Her experience underscores a steadfast devotion to excellence in academia, grounded in collaborative leadership and educational innovation.

Research Interests

Her scholarly pursuits are rooted in the intersection of economics, finance, and human behavior. She investigates how macroeconomic trends influence stock markets and investment decision-making, particularly through the lens of behavioral finance. Fascinated by the psychological underpinnings of investor behavior, she also explores how financial markets respond to economic signals and policy shifts. Sustainability and growth form another core dimension of her research, examining their interplay within emerging markets like India. This multi-faceted focus allows her to contribute meaningful insights to both academic discourse and practical financial understanding.

Awards & Recognitions

Dr. Keswani’s academic contributions have been acknowledged for their impact and relevance, earning her recognition in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations. She has been chosen to serve on editorial boards, reflecting confidence in her scholarly discernment. Her role as a reviewer for several indexed journals further underscores her reputation for quality and rigor. These honors highlight the esteem she holds among academic colleagues and editorial committees. Through her dedication to both research and mentorship, she continues to build a legacy of excellence and trust in her field.

Publication Top Notes

Exploring innovation resistance in tourism: barriers to metaverse adoption among tourists

Journal: Cogent Business and Management 
Authors:  Polisetty A, Jha R, Keswani, S.

Relationship among macroeconomic factors and stock prices: cointegration approach from the Indian stock market

Journal: Cogent Economics and Finance 
Authors: Keswani S, Puri V, Jha R.

Social media influencers: a systematic review using PRISMA

Journal: Cogent Business and Management
Authors: Dhingra V, Keswani S, Sama R, Rafik Noor Mohamed Qureshi M,

Intelligent Decision Support System for Medical Image Analysis Using Machine Learning

Journal: International Journal of Intelligent Systems and Applications in Engineering 
Authors: Rajput K, Patil S.T, Keswani S, Mahajan Y.

The Determinants of Audit Quality and Impact on Overall Audit Performance

Journal: Natural Volatiles & Essential Oils 
Authors: Keswani S.

The Impact of Portfolio Diversification on Risk Management Practices

Journal: Natural Volatiles & Essential Oils 
Authors: Keswani S.

Conclusion

Dr. Sarika Keswani embodies the qualities of an impactful academic—an educator with a firm grasp on research, a mentor with a global outlook, and a thought leader grounded in evidence. Her journey from foundational studies to doctoral scholarship, multifaceted teaching roles, and robust publication record showcases her unwavering commitment to management education. Whether guiding students, collaborating with peers, or contributing to scholarly discourse, she brings perspective, passion, and purpose. Her work resonates across the domains she serves, poised to inspire future research and nurture the next generation of finance and management professionals

Mehrdad Esmaeilipour | Engineering | New Horizons Science Invention Award

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Mr. Mehrdad Esmaeilipour | Engineering | New Horizons Science Invention Award

Mr. Mehrdad Esmaeilipour | Parsa Pardazesh Booshehr Sanaat | Iran

Mr. Mehrdad Esmaeilipour is a pioneering electronics engineer with a profound commitment to environmental sustainability and technological innovation. As the Senior Electronic Engineer at Arya Plasma Gostar Pars Company and CEO of Parsa Pardazesh Bushehr Sanat Company (PPBS Co.), he specializes in the design and development of intelligent purification systems, robotic platforms, and digital health solutions. Mehrdad’s expertise spans a wide range of disciplines, from embedded system design to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)-based optimization in purification systems. His leadership and mentorship roles in academia and industry highlight his mission to integrate sustainable engineering with real-world problem-solving.

Profile

Googlescholar

Education

Mr. Mehrdad’s educational journey reflects a solid foundation in electronics and a lifelong commitment to applied engineering. He began his technical education at Azadegan Technical High School, where he first cultivated his interest in circuitry and design. He continued his studies at Islamic Azad University, earning an Associate’s Degree in Electronics and later a Bachelor’s Degree in Electronics Engineering Technology. During this time, he honed his expertise in circuit analysis, microcontrollers, embedded systems, power systems, automation, and digital electronics. His academic background has been instrumental in shaping his innovative thinking and practical problem-solving skills. It also laid the groundwork for his professional career, where he has successfully blended academic theory with real-world engineering applications, particularly in green technologies, smart devices, and robotics.

Experience

Mr. Mehrdad Esmaeilipour brings rich and diverse professional experience in the field of electronics and systems engineering. As a Senior Electronic Engineer at Arya Plasma Gostar Pars Company, he leads the production of advanced air and water purification systems, designing circuits that enhance stability and efficiency. He has overseen the design and deployment of intelligent environmental systems across various cities in Iran. In his role as CEO of PPBS Co., he has directed numerous security, networking, and IT initiatives while mentoring a dedicated team of engineers and interns. Additionally, Mehrdad contributes voluntarily to robotics education at Islamic Azad University, where he guides students in developing robotic prototypes and sophisticated control systems. Throughout his professional journey, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, project management, and technical mentorship. His integrated experience in both industry and academia showcases his capability to drive innovation and implement practical solutions that serve both society and the environment.

Research Interests

Mr. Mehrdad’s research interests center on the intersection of electronics, artificial intelligence, and environmental sustainability. He is particularly focused on the development of green technologies for air and water purification using plasma systems, integrated circuits, and control engineering. His patented projects reflect a strong commitment to solving ecological problems with smart electronic solutions, including his research into wastewater treatment, cold plasma applications, and microbial purification. Another core interest lies in assistive technologies, where Mehrdad has developed an AI-enabled smart bracelet for the visually impaired, incorporating sensors and emergency response features. In the educational domain, he actively explores robotics system optimization, utilizing PID and sensor fusion to enhance robot performance for academic applications. His work often merges theoretical models with practical implementation, highlighting a research philosophy rooted in innovation, sustainability, and human impact. Mehrdad’s multi-disciplinary approach positions him as a researcher uniquely contributing to socially and environmentally responsive engineering.

Awards & Recognitions

Mr. Mehrdad has received significant recognition for his contributions to electronics, innovation, and entrepreneurship. His Smart Bracelet for the Visually Impaired, patented in 2024, has garnered attention as a breakthrough in digital health and assistive AI technology. He has also led award-winning projects in air purification, wastewater treatment, and cold plasma technology, several of which have been implemented by water and wastewater companies across Bushehr and Bandar Abbas. Through his leadership at PPBS Co., Mehrdad has created employment opportunities for students, earning him accolades as an emerging entrepreneur committed to social responsibility. At the Islamic Azad University, his mentorship in robotics has resulted in successful prototypes and skill development among students, further contributing to community engagement. His reputation as an innovator is reflected in both patented intellectual property and practical, field-deployed engineering solutions, placing him at the forefront of sustainable technology development and technical education.

 Publication Top Notes

Design, Construction and Performance Comparison of Fuzzy Logic Controller and PID Controller for Two-Wheel Balance Robot(Smart Sensors)

An Extensive Optimization Framework for Energy Management within Energy Hubs: A Comparative Analysis of Simulated Multi-Agent Systems, Genetic Algorithms, and Mixed-Integer …

Fundamental subject on advanced energy extraction innovation-based technologies and autonomous sensor systems for smart electronic platforms

Single Miller compensation with Split Output and Current amplifier(SMSOC) use in three stage amplifiers to driving ultra large capacitive loads

Advanced Design,Simulation,Monitoring,Control,and Maitenance Strategies for Photovoltaic Solar Power Systems (BOOK)

Advancements in Cold Plasma Technology for Electronic and Surface Sterilization Applications

Advances and Challenges in Lithium-Ion Battery Technology

Design of an Optimal Proportional-Integral-Derivative Controller Utilizing AI Techniques for Brushless Direct Current Motor with Phase shift. Design of an Optimal Proportional …

Advancements in Cold Plasma Technology for Electronic and Surface Sterilization Applications

Design, Construction and Performance Comparison of Fuzzy Logic Controller and PID Controller for Two-Wheel Balance Robot

 Conclusion

Mr. Mehrdad Esmaeilipour exemplifies the spirit of innovation, sustainability, and technical leadership that the New Horizons Science Invention Award seeks to honor. His multidimensional contributions—as an engineer, inventor, mentor, and entrepreneur—are rooted in a passion for using technology to solve pressing societal and environmental challenges. With proven achievements in product development, patented inventions, and educational mentorship, Mehrdad stands out as a candidate who not only creates solutions but also fosters the next generation of innovators. His unique integration of green technology, AI, and robotics education places him at the cutting edge of modern engineering. He brings a rare combination of practical industry experience and socially impactful research. Recognizing him with this award would not only validate his past accomplishments but also encourage continued contributions to global innovation and sustainability. Mehrdad is not just inventing devices—he’s building a better, smarter, and more inclusive future through electronics.

Dr. Neng Tao | Fuel Combustion | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Neng Tao | Fuel Combustion | Best Researcher Award

Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China.

Dr. Neng Tao is a distinguished researcher at the Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences, specializing in molecular dynamics simulations, thermal decomposition mechanisms, and fire-extinguishing studies. She has a dual Ph.D. in Safety Science and Architecture and Civil Engineering, complemented by postdoctoral research in energy conversion technologies. Dr. Tao is committed to advancing sustainable solutions through her interdisciplinary expertise.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

🎓 Education

Dr. Neng Tao holds an exceptional academic background with dual Ph.D. degrees and extensive research experience. She earned her Ph.D. in Architecture and Civil Engineering from the City University of Hong Kong (2018.09–2023.03), focusing on interdisciplinary studies bridging engineering and safety. Simultaneously, she pursued a Ph.D. in Safety Science and Engineering at the University of Science and Technology of China (2017.09–2022.11), emphasizing fire safety and thermal decomposition mechanisms. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Safety Engineering from the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan) (2017.09–2022.11), where she developed a strong foundation in safety engineering principles. Currently, she is engaged in postdoctoral research at the Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2022.12–Present), advancing her expertise in energy conversion and sustainable safety solutions.

💼 Work Experience

Dr. Neng Tao is currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2022.12–Present). Her work focuses on advanced energy conversion technologies and fire-extinguishing mechanisms, leveraging molecular dynamics simulations and density functional theory to develop sustainable and efficient solutions in fire safety and energy systems.

🔬 Research Interests

Molecular Dynamics Simulation Using ReaxFF-Based Methodologies

Dr. Neng Tao specializes in employing ReaxFF-based molecular dynamics simulations to explore complex chemical reactions and interactions at the atomic level, enhancing the understanding of material behavior under extreme conditions.

Thermal Decomposition and Pyrolysis Mechanisms

Her research delves into the thermal decomposition and pyrolysis processes of advanced materials, aiming to optimize their performance and safety profiles in energy and fire safety applications.

Fire-Extinguishing Studies with Low-Global-Warming-Potential Materials

Dr. Tao investigates innovative fire-extinguishing mechanisms using environmentally friendly agents, focusing on materials with low global warming potential to promote sustainable safety solutions.

Advanced Energy Conversion Technologies

Her work also extends to developing cutting-edge energy conversion technologies, addressing critical challenges in energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

📚 Publications Top Notes

Tao Neng, et al. Thermal decomposition and fire-extinguishing mechanism of N(CF₂CF₃)₃ by ReaxFF-based molecular dynamics simulation and density functional theory calculation. International Journal of Quantum Chemistry, 2022, Link

Tao Neng, et al. Experimental and ReaxFF-based molecular dynamics studies of the reaction of oxygen with DR-2 as a low global warming potential working fluid. International Journal of Quantum Chemistry, 2021, Link

Tao Neng, et al. Experimental and Density Functional Theory Studies on 1,1,1,4,4,4-Hexafluoro-2-Butene Pyrolysis. Molecules, 2020, Link