Niloufar Salehi | Circular Supply Chains | Best Researcher Award

Ms Niloufar Salehi | Circular Supply Chains | Best Researcher Award

MS Niloufar Salehi , KTH Royal Institute of Technology , Sweden

Niloufar Salehi is a dedicated PhD candidate at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, specializing in Circular Manufacturing Systems. With over five years of experience, Niloufar excels in developing data-driven decision-support tools that facilitate the transition to sustainable manufacturing practices. Her strategic and analytical mindset empowers her to address complex challenges in the field, aiming for innovative solutions that contribute to a circular economy. Niloufar’s collaborative spirit has fostered partnerships with international universities and research institutes, enriching academic discourse and resulting in numerous publications. She is deeply committed to sustainability, believing that urgent action is needed to ensure a better future.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Expertise in Circular Manufacturing: Niloufar has a deep understanding of Circular Manufacturing Systems, demonstrated through her extensive research and development of decision-support tools. Her work directly contributes to advancing sustainable practices in manufacturing.
  2. Strong Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Her ability to tackle complex challenges through multi-method simulation modeling shows a high level of analytical competence, making her a valuable asset in the field.
  3. Successful Project Management: Niloufar has effectively led and contributed to multiple EU-funded projects, showcasing her leadership in data gathering, project coordination, and stakeholder engagement.
  4. Collaborative Research Contributions: She has established fruitful collaborations with over four international universities, resulting in several impactful publications, reflecting her ability to work well in diverse research environments.
  5. Teaching and Mentoring: Her experience in teaching and supervising students demonstrates her commitment to knowledge dissemination and nurturing the next generation of researchers.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact Communication: While her research is impactful, enhancing her communication skills to reach broader audiences could amplify the visibility of her contributions.
  2. Networking Expansion: Increasing her involvement in industry conferences and workshops may provide additional platforms for sharing her research and establishing more collaborations.
  3. Interdisciplinary Approaches: Exploring intersections with other disciplines, such as social sciences or policy-making, could enrich her research and broaden its applicability.

Education 

Niloufar holds a PhD in Production Engineering from KTH Royal Institute of Technology (2018–2024), where her thesis focuses on creating multi-method simulation model-based decision-support tools for Circular Supply Chain implementation. Prior to her doctoral studies, she earned an MSc in Energy Systems Engineering from Sharif University of Technology in Iran (2014–2017), achieving a GPA of 17.78/20 and ranking in the top 10% of her class. Her master’s thesis concentrated on optimizing recovery technologies for municipal solid waste through a multi-criteria decision-making model, highlighting her strong foundation in sustainability. Niloufar’s academic journey began with a BSc in Chemical Engineering, also from Sharif University (2009–2013), where she laid the groundwork for her future research in sustainable engineering practices and environmental management.

Experience 

Niloufar’s professional journey spans significant roles, including her current position as a PhD candidate at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, where she leads data gathering and project management efforts for multiple EU-funded projects. Notably, she has contributed to Horizon Europe’s DiCiM project, focusing on digitalized value management for Circular Manufacturing Systems. In her role within H2020 ReCiPSS, she has been instrumental in transitioning linear supply chains to circular ones, developing multi-method simulation models that assess economic, environmental, and technical performance. Additionally, Niloufar has experience as a researcher at Sharif Energy Research Institute, where she conducted techno-economic analyses related to anaerobic digestion. Her extensive teaching experience includes courses on Circular Manufacturing Systems at KTH and guest lectures at various institutions, demonstrating her commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering future generations in the field.

Research Focus 

Niloufar’s research focuses on Circular Manufacturing Systems, specifically the development of decision-support tools that facilitate the implementation of circular supply chains. She employs multi-method simulation models to analyze the complexities of manufacturing systems and support sustainable practices. Her work emphasizes data-driven solutions for transitioning traditional linear supply chains into circular frameworks, addressing the urgent need for sustainability in manufacturing. Key areas of interest include resource efficiency, waste reduction, and the integration of digital technologies in manufacturing processes. Niloufar’s research contributions also explore stakeholder dynamics in circular supply chains, ensuring that economic, environmental, and technical aspects are considered for effective decision-making. Through collaboration with international partners and participation in various EU-funded projects, she aims to enhance academic knowledge and provide practical solutions that drive the adoption of circular economy principles in manufacturing.

Publications Top Notes

  • Amir, S., Salehi, N., Roci, M., Sweet, S., & Rashid, A. (2022). Towards circular economy: A guiding framework for circular supply chain implementation. 📚
  • Roci, M., Salehi, N., Amir, S., Shoaib-ul-Hasan, S., Asif, F. M. A., Mihelič, A., & Rashid, A. (2022). Towards circular manufacturing systems implementation: A complex adaptive systems perspective using modelling and simulation as a quantitative analysis tool. 🌍
  • Roci, M., Salehi, N., Amir, S., Asif, F. M. A., Shoaib-ul-Hasan, S., & Rashid, A. (2022). Multi-method simulation modelling of circular manufacturing systems for enhanced decision-making. 🛠️
  • Salehi, N., Amir, S., Roci, M., Shoaib-ul-Hasan, S., Asif, F. M. A., Mihelič, A., Sweet, S., & Rashid, A. (2024). Towards circular manufacturing systems implementation: An integrated analysis framework for circular supply chains. 🔄
  • Asif, F. M., Salehi, N., & Lieder, M. (2022). Consumer Perceptions of the Circular Business Model: A Case of Leasing Strollers. 👶
  • Kokare, S., Asif, F. M. A., Mårtensson, G., Shoaib-ul-Hasan, S., Rashid, A., Roci, M., & Salehi, N. (2021). A comparative life cycle assessment of stretchable and rigid electronics: a case study of cardiac monitoring devices. ❤️
  • Shoaib-ul-Hasan, S., Roci, M., Asif, F. M. A., Salehi, N., & Rashid, A. (2021). Analyzing temporal variability in inventory data for life cycle assessment: Implications in the context of circular economy. 📊
  • Villamil Velasquez, C., Salehi, N., & Hallstedt, S. I. (2020). How Can Information and Communications Technology Support the Link Between Circular Economy and Product Life Cycle Management? – a Review. 💻
  • Salehi, N., Mahmoudi, M., Bazargan, A., & McKay, G. (2019). Exergy and Life Cycle-Based Analysis. In C. M. Hussain (Ed.), Handbook of Environmental Materials Management (pp. 1057–1078). 📖

Conclusion

Niloufar Salehi exemplifies the qualities of a leading researcher in the field of Circular Manufacturing Systems. Her strong foundation in data-driven decision support, coupled with her project management and collaborative skills, positions her as a frontrunner for the Best Researcher Award. With targeted improvements in communication and networking, she has the potential to significantly elevate her impact in both academic and industrial contexts.

 

 

Silvia Vilčeková | Sustainable construction | Best Researcher Award

Prof Silvia Vilčeková | Sustainable construction | Best Researcher Award

Prof Silvia Vilčeková, Technical University of Košice, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Slovakia

Silvia Vilčeková is a distinguished professor at the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), Slovakia, with a career dedicated to sustainable construction and environmental engineering. Currently serving as the Director of the Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction at TUKE, she has significantly contributed to the fields of indoor environmental quality, sustainability assessment, and life cycle assessment of building materials. With over two decades of experience, Silvia has held key positions including Head of the Department of Environmental Engineering and has been involved in various high-impact research projects. Beyond academia, she is also an accomplished sustainability consultant, founding SILCERT, s.r.o., where she leads projects related to LEED, BREEAM, and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Her expertise is recognized through multiple awards, making her a leading figure in sustainable building practices.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Strengths

  1. Academic and Professional Leadership: Silvia Vilčeková has held prominent positions at the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), including her current role as the Director of the Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction. Her leadership in the field of Environmental Engineering, as well as her involvement in sustainability projects, reflects her strong academic and research capabilities.
  2. Research Contributions: With a robust portfolio of published works, including journal articles, book chapters, and conference papers, Vilčeková has made significant contributions to the fields of indoor environmental quality, sustainable construction, and life cycle assessment of building materials. Her research addresses crucial aspects of sustainability in the built environment.
  3. Industry Expertise: Beyond academia, Vilčeková has established her expertise as a senior sustainability consultant through her involvement with companies like SALVIS and SILCERT. Her work on projects certified by LEED and BREEAM demonstrates her practical impact on sustainable construction practices.
  4. Recognition and Awards: Vilčeková’s recognition through various awards, such as the Prize for Scientific and Professional Literature, highlights her contributions to the scientific community.

Areas for Improvement

  1. International Collaboration: While Vilčeková has an impressive portfolio, expanding her international collaboration networks could further enhance her global research impact.
  2. Public Engagement: Increasing her public engagement and outreach efforts, particularly through conferences, workshops, and public lectures, could help in disseminating her research findings to a broader audience.

Education

Silvia Vilčeková’s academic journey is rooted in the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), Slovakia. She earned her PhD in Environmental Engineering in 2003, with her doctoral thesis focused on the impact of nitrogen oxides in indoor environments. Furthering her specialization, she achieved the title of Associate Professor in Building Construction in 2009, with her habilitation thesis examining the intricate relationship between buildings and the environment. Her dedication to advancing sustainable construction was solidified in 2021 when she was appointed as a full Professor at TUKE. Complementing her academic credentials, Silvia holds several prestigious certifications, including the WELL Accredited Professional (WELL AP) from the International WELL Building Institute, LEED Green Associate from the US Green Building Council, and Individual Verifier certifications from international organizations like the International EPD® System in Sweden and EPD-Norge in Norway, highlighting her commitment to global sustainability standards.

Experience

Silvia Vilčeková’s professional experience spans over two decades, marked by key leadership roles at the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), Slovakia. She currently serves as the Director of the Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction, where she oversees research and educational activities focused on sustainable building practices. Previously, she was the Head of the Department of Environmental Engineering at TUKE, guiding research initiatives and curricula in environmental engineering. Silvia has also contributed significantly to the Institute of Environmental Engineering and the Institute of Building and Environment at TUKE. Beyond academia, she is the founder and Senior Sustainability Consultant at SILCERT, s.r.o., where she leads projects on sustainability certifications such as LEED and BREEAM, and the development of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Her consulting firm, SALVIS, s.r.o., further reflects her expertise in sustainable construction, making her a recognized leader in the field.

Awards and Honors 

Silvia Vilčeková has been recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout her career, underscoring her contributions to environmental engineering and sustainable construction. Among her most notable accolades is the Prize for Scientific and Professional Literature in the category of Natural and Technical Sciences, which she received in 2017 for her scientific monograph on the occurrence of organic compounds in the indoor environment. This prestigious award highlights her pioneering research in indoor environmental quality. In addition, Silvia has been an influential member of key technical committees, including serving as Chairman of the Technical Committee TK112 for Sustainable Construction and a member of the Technical Committee TK109 for Facility Management. Her leadership in these committees reflects her commitment to advancing sustainability practices at both national and international levels. Silvia’s dedication to her field is further demonstrated by her role as a verifier for various Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) systems across Europe.

Research Focus

Silvia Vilčeková’s research focuses on advancing sustainable and circular construction practices, with a particular emphasis on indoor environmental quality and life cycle assessment of building materials. At the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), Slovakia, where she serves as the Director of the Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction, Silvia leads cutting-edge research projects that explore the environmental impact of building materials throughout their life cycle. Her work involves detailed assessments of indoor environmental quality, including the monitoring of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter. Silvia’s research also extends to the development and implementation of sustainability assessment methods and certification systems, such as LEED and BREEAM, for buildings. She has contributed to numerous publications and book chapters, sharing her findings on the importance of sustainable construction practices in reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing the overall sustainability of the built environment.

Publication Top Notes

  1. 📘 “Building Materials Circularity of Green Roofs” (2024) – Book chapter, DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-44955-0_47
  2. 🏙️ “The impact of green roofs’ composition on its overall life cycle” (2024) – Journal article, DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122363
  3. 🏢 “Prioritization of Sustainability Dimensions and Indicators for Office Buildings” (2023) – Book chapter, DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-38766-1_5
  4. 🔄 “End-of-Life Stage Analysis of Building Materials in Relation to Circular Construction” (2023) – Conference paper, DOI: 10.3390/engproc2023057043
  5. 🌍 “Potential for Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Buildings” (2023) – Conference paper, DOI: 10.3390/engproc2023057006
  6. 💡 “Analysis of Equivalent CO2 Emissions of the Irrigation System—A Case Study” (2023) – Journal article, DOI: 10.3390/su152316240
  7. 🔌 “Life cycle assessment of LED luminaire and impact on lighting installation – A case study” (2023) – Journal article, DOI: 10.1016/j.aej.2023.08.068
  8. 🏠 “Influence of the Heating System on the Indoor Environmental Quality—Case Study” (2022) – Journal article, DOI: 10.3390/buildings12081088
  9. 🌿 “An Extensive Study for a Wide Utilization of Green Architecture Parameters in Built Environment Based on Genetic Schemes” (2021) – Journal article, DOI: 10.3390/buildings11110507
  10. 🏡 “Towards an Adaptation of Efficient Passive Design for Thermal Comfort Buildings” (2021) – Journal article, DOI: 10.3390/su13179570

Conclusion

Silvia Vilčeková’s extensive experience in sustainable construction, leadership roles, and significant research contributions make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also impacts the construction industry, making her deserving of this recognition. Expanding her international collaborations and public engagement could further amplify her influence in the field.