Soughah AlSamahi | Civil Engineering | Applied Engineering Award

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Applied Engineering Award

Soughah AlSamahi
University of Guanajuato, Mexico
Soughah AlSamahi
Affiliation Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure
Country United Arab Emirates
Scopus ID 58398057200
Documents 2
Citations 16
h-index 1
Subject Area Civil Engineering
Event Popular Engineer Awards
ORCID 0009-0005-8213-8007

Soughah AlSamahi is a civil engineer and researcher affiliated with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates. With over five years of professional experience in road asset management, infrastructure maintenance, and climate resilience, she has contributed to numerous federal projects and research initiatives. Her work focuses on innovative approaches to structural health monitoring, pavement engineering, and flood risk assessment, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and smart infrastructure solutions. AlSamahi holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Sharjah (ongoing), a Master’s degree in Engineering Asset Management with Distinction from the University of Wollongong in Dubai, and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the American University of Sharjah. She has been recognized through multiple awards, including the Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Award (2023) and the Best New Employee Award (2020).[1][2]

Abstract

This article presents the academic and professional profile of Soughah AlSamahi, a civil engineer and researcher at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (UAE), in the context of the Popular Engineer Awards. The summary highlights her research output, including 16 Scopus-indexed documents, 2 citations, and an h-index of 1, alongside her extensive project experience in road asset management, pavement maintenance, and climate adaptation. Her work bridges engineering practice and academic inquiry, with contributions to structural health monitoring, flood risk assessment, and performance-based infrastructure contracts. AlSamahi’s dedication to innovation, knowledge sharing, and professional development aligns with the criteria for applied engineering recognition.[3]

Keywords

Civil Engineering, Road Asset Management, Structural Health Monitoring, Pavement Engineering, Climate Resilience, Flood Risk Assessment, Infrastructure Management, Performance-Based Contracts, Innovation, Smart Infrastructure, Sustainability, Applied Engineering.

Introduction

The Popular Engineer Awards recognize individuals who demonstrate excellence in applied engineering, combining technical expertise with practical impact. Soughah AlSamahi’s career trajectory exemplifies this integration. Since joining the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, she has been involved in over a dozen major infrastructure projects, ranging from federal road maintenance to smart asset management systems. Her academic pursuits, including a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering and a Master’s in Engineering Asset Management, complement her hands-on experience, enabling her to address complex engineering challenges with evidence-based solutions. Her research on pavement deterioration models, structural health monitoring, and climate change impacts has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences.[4] This article provides a comprehensive overview of her professional and research contributions, underscoring her suitability for the award.

Research Profile

Soughah AlSamahi’s research profile, as indexed in Scopus (Author ID: 58398057200), comprises 16 documents with 2 citations and an h-index of 1, primarily in civil engineering, infrastructure management, and materials science. Her work spans experimental assessments, numerical modeling, and field applications. Notable themes include the use of sensors and smartphone-based devices for damage detection, the development of pavement roughness prediction models under diverse climatic conditions, and the application of performance-based contracts for road networks. She has collaborated with international researchers and contributed to technical committees, including the World Road Association (PIARC), where she serves as the only Arab and Emirati member of the Asset Management Committee. Her research is characterized by a strong emphasis on practical implementation and policy relevance.[5]

Research Contributions

Soughah AlSamahi has made significant contributions to civil engineering through both research and practice. Key contributions include:

  • Structural Health Monitoring: Co-authored a study on an integrated approach for bridge damage detection using experimental assessments, published in Applied Sciences (2022). This work demonstrated the feasibility of low-cost sensors for real-time infrastructure monitoring.[3]
  • Pavement Performance Modeling: Led a comparative study on pavement roughness prediction models under different climatic conditions, published in Infrastructures (2024). The research provided insights into the effects of temperature and moisture on road deterioration, informing maintenance strategies for the UAE.[4]
  • Climate Change Adaptation: Published papers on flash flood risk assessment and rainfall change projections in the UAE, contributing to the development of climate-resilient infrastructure policies.
  • Asset Management Frameworks: Presented innovative approaches to road asset management at international conferences, including the IRF World Congress and the Roads and Traffic Expo Middle East.
  • Smart Solutions: Contributed to the development of a Road Asset Management System and participated in the open data team that improved the UAE’s global ranking in data transparency.

Publications

Soughah AlSamahi’s research portfolio includes impactful publications on structural health monitoring (Applied Sciences, 2022) using low-cost sensors for bridge damage detection [3], pavement roughness prediction under extreme climates (Infrastructures, 2024) [4], and advanced asphalt characterization for MEPDG implementation (Infrastructures, 2026) [5]. She has also presented conference papers on road asset management, flash flood mitigation, and climate change projections, demonstrating her broad engagement with infrastructure resilience challenges.

Selected peer-reviewed publications and conference papers authored or co-authored by Soughah AlSamahi include:

  • Fiandaca, D., Di Matteo, A., Patella, B., Moukri, N., Al Samahi, S., Inguanta, R., Llort, D., Mulone, A., et al. (2022). An integrated approach for structural health monitoring and damage detection of bridges: An experimental assessment. Applied Sciences, 12(24), 13018.
  • Al-Samahi, S., Zeiada, W., Al-Khateeb, G. G., Hamad, K., et al. (2024). A comparative study of pavement roughness prediction models under different climatic conditions. Infrastructures, 9(10), 167.
  • Al-Samahi, S., Zeiada, W., Al-Khateeb, G. G., Cherkaoui, A., Ezzat, H. (2026). Advanced Characterization of Asphalt Concrete Mixtures Towards Implementation of MEPDG in the UAE. Infrastructures, 11(1), 33.
  • Al Samahi, S. (2022). Road Asset Management: Innovative Approaches. Springer Conference Paper.
  • Al Samahi, S. (2024). Flash Floods: Risk assessment and Mitigation. ISEC Conference.
  • Al Samahi, S. (2023). Rainfall change projections under different climate change scenarios in UAE. Qatar Conference.

Research Impact

Soughah AlSamahi’s research has had tangible impacts on infrastructure policy and practice in the UAE. Her work on pavement performance models directly informs maintenance schedules for federal roads, contributing to cost savings and improved road safety. The flood risk assessment studies have been used to develop mitigation strategies for vulnerable areas in Ras AlKhaimah. Additionally, her contributions to the ISO 55001 certification of the Ministry and the implementation of performance-based contracts have enhanced asset management practices at a national level. Her engagement with international bodies such as PIARC and IRF ensures that UAE practices are aligned with global standards. She has also been actively involved in knowledge dissemination through training, mentoring, and media interviews, amplifying the reach of her research.[1]

Award Suitability

Soughah AlSamahi’s profile aligns strongly with the criteria for the Popular Engineer Awards. Her combination of academic rigor, professional experience, and leadership in applied engineering projects demonstrates a commitment to excellence and innovation. She has not only produced high-quality research but has also translated it into practical solutions that address real-world infrastructure challenges. Her recognition through internal and external awards, her active participation in youth councils and professional committees, and her dedication to mentoring the next generation of engineers underscore her suitability for this recognition. The Popular Engineer Awards seek individuals who embody the spirit of applied engineering, and AlSamahi’s career reflects this ethos comprehensively.

Conclusion

This article has provided a detailed account of Soughah AlSamahi’s academic and professional journey, highlighting her contributions to civil engineering, road asset management, and climate resilience. Her research output, project leadership, and commitment to continuous learning position her as a strong candidate for the Popular Engineer Awards. The integration of scientific inquiry with practical application, her collaborative spirit, and her dedication to public service exemplify the values of applied engineering. As she continues her Ph.D. studies and engages in transformative infrastructure projects, AlSamahi is poised to make further significant contributions to the field.

External Links

References

  1. Scopus. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Soughah AlSamahi, Author ID 58398057200. Scopus. https://www.scopus.com/pages/authors/58398057200
  2. ORCID. (n.d.). ORCID record for Soughah AlSamahi, ID 0009-0005-8213-8007. https://orcid.org/0009-0005-8213-8007
  3. Fiandaca, D., Di Matteo, A., Patella, B., Moukri, N., Al Samahi, S., Inguanta, R., Llort, D., Mulone, A., et al. (2022). An integrated approach for structural health monitoring and damage detection of bridges: An experimental assessment. Applied Sciences, 12(24), 13018. https://doi.org/10.3390/app122413018
  4. Al-Samahi, S., Zeiada, W., Al-Khateeb, G. G., Hamad, K., et al. (2024). A comparative study of pavement roughness prediction models under different climatic conditions. Infrastructures, 9(10), 167. https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures9100167
  5. Al-Samahi, S., Zeiada, W., Al-Khateeb, G. G., Cherkaoui, A., Ezzat, H. (2026). Advanced Characterization of Asphalt Concrete Mixtures Towards Implementation of MEPDG in the UAE. Infrastructures, 11(1), 33. https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures11010033

Mahdi Shadabfar | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Mahdi Shadabfar | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, Ayatollah Boroujerdi University, Iran

Mahdi Shadabfar is a leading researcher and academic in the fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning, with a focus on geotechnical engineering. He currently serves as a Research Fellow at Lakehead University, Canada, specializing in probabilistic geohazard analysis using deep learning techniques. His extensive background includes postdoctoral research at Sharif University of Technology in Iran and Tongji University in China. Dr. Shadabfar has contributed significantly to geotechnical engineering, particularly in reliability analysis, risk assessment, and resilience of civil infrastructure under uncertain conditions. He holds a Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering from Hohai University, China, and has received numerous prestigious awards and honors for his work. Dr. Shadabfar’s research explores deep learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and disaster response strategies, aiming to drive innovation in civil and geotechnical engineering practices.

Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Mahdi Shadabfar holds a Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering from Hohai University, China (2012-2017), where he conducted pioneering research in the reliability analysis of induced damage by single-hole rock blasting. He earned his Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Earthquake Engineering, from Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran (2009-2011), focusing on the seismic behavior of buried steel pipelines. His Bachelor’s degree, also from Shahid Beheshti University (2005-2009), was in Civil Engineering, with a thesis on retrofitting RC structures using FRP. Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Shadabfar has been recognized for his excellence in research and academic performance, achieving high GPAs in his studies. He has also pursued various short-term programs and received international recognition, including visiting tsunami-stricken areas of Japan as part of a research program sponsored by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT).

Experience

Dr. Shadabfar has vast academic and professional experience in civil and geotechnical engineering. He is currently a Research Fellow at Lakehead University in Canada, focusing on probabilistic geohazard analysis using deep learning. Prior to this, he completed postdoctoral research at Sharif University of Technology in Iran, studying performance-based reliability analysis of underground structures, and at Tongji University in China, where he conducted risk and reliability assessments for geotechnical systems. In addition to his research roles, Dr. Shadabfar has taught at several institutions worldwide, including Fujian University of Technology (China), Lorestan University (Iran), and Shahid Beheshti University (Iran), where he led courses in earthquake engineering, geostatistics, and structural analysis. He also created and delivered online courses on his personal website, focusing on topics like deep neural networks and Monte Carlo sampling, demonstrating his commitment to academic innovation and knowledge dissemination in the field of geotechnical engineering.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Mahdi Shadabfar has received numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout his career. He was awarded funding from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to support his research at Lakehead University. He also received national talent funding from Iran’s National Elites Foundation (INEF) for his research position at Sharif University of Technology. Dr. Shadabfar’s postdoctoral research at Tongji University in China was supported by dedicated research funding for two years. His academic excellence has been recognized through the “Academic Innovation” award from Hohai University for two consecutive years (2013-2014). Furthermore, he was awarded a full scholarship by the China Scholarship Council (CSC) for his doctoral studies in China. These accolades highlight his exceptional contributions to geotechnical engineering and research, reflecting his innovative approach to applying artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques in infrastructure resilience and risk analysis.

Research Focus

Dr. Mahdi Shadabfar’s research focuses on applying artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques in the field of geotechnical engineering, specifically in reliability analysis, risk assessment, and the resilience of civil infrastructure. His current work at Lakehead University revolves around probabilistic geohazard analysis through deep learning models. Dr. Shadabfar’s research is centered on optimizing urban infrastructure systems, improving disaster response planning, and assessing the impacts of climate change on civil structures. He is also deeply involved in exploring the Internet of Things (IoT) for smart cities and sustainable infrastructure development, along with predictive maintenance strategies. Furthermore, his work in digital twin technology and augmented reality aims to revolutionize civil engineering design and construction. Dr. Shadabfar’s research seeks to integrate cutting-edge technologies to create robust, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure systems capable of responding effectively to natural disasters and environmental challenges.

Publication Top Notes

  • Deep learning-based automatic recognition of water leakage area in shield tunnel lining 🛠️💧
  • Rock fragmentation induced by a TBM disc-cutter considering the effects of joints 🏗️💥
  • Deep learning‐based classification and instance segmentation of leakage‐area and scaling images of shield tunnel linings 📸🔧
  • Beam damage detection under a moving load using random decrement technique and Savitzky–Golay filter 🏗️⚙️
  • Resilience-based design of infrastructure: Review of models, methodologies, and computational tools 🏢💡
  • Image-based segmentation and quantification of weak interlayers in rock tunnel face via deep learning 🧱🔍
  • An optimization strategy to improve the deep learning‐based recognition model of leakage in shield tunnels 🔍🛠️
  • Multi-source data driven method for assessing the rock mass quality of a NATM tunnel face via hybrid ensemble learning models 📊🪨
  • A combined review of vibration control strategies for high-speed trains and railway infrastructures 🚄🔧
  • Approximation of the Monte Carlo sampling method for reliability analysis of structures 🧮🔬

 

 

Joon Kyu Lee | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Joon Kyu Lee | Geotechnical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor, University of Seoul, South Korea

Dr. Joon Kyu Lee is a Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Seoul and the Director of the Geohazard Prevention Research Center. He has extensive expertise in geotechnical engineering, focusing on structural stability, foundation systems, and environmental geotechnics. Dr. Lee’s academic journey includes a PhD in Civil & Environmental Engineering from the University of Western Ontario, Canada. He has held various academic roles, including Assistant and Associate Professor at the University of Seoul. In addition, he has been a Visiting Scholar at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. Dr. Lee is an active member of various professional organizations and serves as an editor for multiple academic journals. His research contributions have made a significant impact in both academia and industry, particularly in areas related to offshore structures, soil mechanics, and geohazard mitigation.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Joon Kyu Lee holds a PhD in Civil & Environmental Engineering (Geotechnical) from the University of Western Ontario, Canada (2012). His academic journey began with a BS in Civil & Urban Engineering (2005) and an MS in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical) (2007), both from Yonsei University, Korea. The doctoral research focused on advanced geotechnical engineering techniques and their practical applications. Dr. Lee’s educational background laid the foundation for his subsequent academic and research success, equipping him with expertise in soil mechanics, foundation systems, and environmental geotechnics. This diverse education has supported his broad research interests and innovative approaches in the civil engineering domain. His time at the University of Western Ontario, Canada, allowed him to work with leading experts in the field and shaped his ongoing commitment to advancing geotechnical engineering through both theoretical and practical research.

Experience

Dr. Joon Kyu Lee has accumulated a wealth of experience in academia and research, holding various prestigious roles at the University of Seoul. Since 2024, he has been a Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering, also serving as the Director of the Geohazard Prevention Research Center. Prior to his current position, Dr. Lee was an Associate Professor (2020-2022) and Assistant Professor (2016-2019) at the University of Seoul. His early career includes a Research Professor role at Yonsei University in 2015 and a Postdoctoral Research Associate position (2013-2014). Dr. Lee has also contributed to international academic communities as a Visiting Scholar in Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte (2022). His leadership extends beyond teaching, as he has been the Department Chair at the University of Seoul and served on various academic committees and review panels. Dr. Lee is known for his impactful research in geotechnical engineering.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Joon Kyu Lee has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his outstanding contributions to academia and the field of civil engineering. In 2024, he was honored with the Minister’s Citation by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport of the Republic of Korea. Additionally, Dr. Lee received the Governor’s Citation from Gyeonggi Province in 2021 and the Presidential Award from the Korean Geotechnical Society in 2018. His dedication to teaching was also recognized with the Outstanding Teaching Award from the University of Seoul in 2017. Dr. Lee’s research excellence has earned him the Best Paper Presentation Award from the Korean Geotechnical Society in 2013. His early academic achievements were supported by the Brain Korea 21 Scholarship, which he received in 2006. These awards highlight Dr. Lee’s leadership in geotechnical engineering and his continued efforts to advance both academic research and education in the field.

Research Focus

Dr. Joon Kyu Lee’s research focuses on geotechnical engineering, with a special emphasis on soil mechanics, foundation systems, and structural stability in civil engineering. His work explores advanced topics such as the bearing capacity of foundations for offshore structures, the stability of footings on soils with voids, and the performance of tapered piles in heterogeneous soils. Dr. Lee’s contributions to eco-friendly engineering include the study of cemented paste backfills for mine stabilization. He also investigates the probabilistic resistance of subsea pipelines, contributing to safer marine engineering practices. His recent research on surface ground vibrations induced by tunnel blasting showcases his ability to integrate practical considerations with advanced theoretical modeling. Dr. Lee is dedicated to geohazard mitigation and the sustainable design of infrastructure. His work addresses both fundamental geotechnical problems and industry-relevant challenges, making him a key figure in advancing geotechnical and civil engineering practices.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Probabilistic Undrained Resistance of Subsea Buried Pipelines Against Upheaval Buckling 🌊🚢
  2. Evaluation of Surface Ground Vibrations Induced by Tunnel Blasts During Railway Construction: A Case Study 🚇🌍
  3. In-Plane Free Vibration of Laterally Symmetric Functionally Graded Material Arches 📐🏗️
  4. Stability Analysis of Axially Functionally Graded Heavy Column 🏛️💡
  5. Generalized Flexural Rigidity of Laterally Functionally Graded Material Cross Sections and Its Application to Cantilever Beam Elasticas 🛠️🔧
  6. Transverse Free Vibration of Pre-stressed Heavy Columns Laminated from Two-Hybrid Materials with Circular Cross-Section 🔄🏗️
  7. Probabilistic Ultimate Lateral Capacity of Two-Pile Groups in Spatially Random Clay 🌍⚙️
  8. Approximate Settlement Influence Factors for Bucket Foundations 🏝️⚓
  9. Free Vibration of Ogival Circular Arch ⏺️🔊
  10. Influence of Consolidation on Undrained Capacity of Two Interfering Footings on Heterogeneous Clays 🌱🛠️

Nagesh Dhore | Hygrothermoelasticity | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Nagesh Dhore | Hygrothermoelasticity | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, Gramgeeta Mahavidyalaya Chimur, India

Nagesh Dipak Dhore is the Head and Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Gramgeeta Mahavidyalaya, Chimur, Maharashtra. With a deep passion for mathematics and teaching, he has contributed extensively to the academic field, especially in the area of Thermoelasticity. His educational qualifications include an M.Sc., B.Ed., and SET in Mathematical Science. Nagesh is also a registered Ph.D. candidate at M. G. Arts & Science College, Armori, under the guidance of L. H. Khalsa. His contributions to academia are reflected in his publications and teaching experience.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Nagesh holds an M.Sc. in Mathematics from Rashtrasant Tukdoji Maharaj Nagpur University (2014), a B.Ed. from Late Vithobaji Amle College of Education (2017), and a B.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics from Nevjabai Hitkarini College, Nagpur (2012). Additionally, he qualified for the SET exam conducted by Savitribai Phule University, Pune in 2017, marking a significant milestone in his academic journey.

Experience

Nagesh Dipak Dhore brings over 5 years of full-time teaching experience at Gramgeeta Mahavidyalaya, Chimur. His career also includes contributory teaching positions at Shri Govindrao Munghate Arts & Science College (1 year), Christanand School & Junior College (2.5 years), and Government Polytechnic, Bramhapuri (1 year). His diverse experience in educational institutions highlights his commitment to advancing the field of mathematics.

Research Interests

Nagesh’s research interests focus on Thermoelasticity and its applications, particularly the study of hygrothermal effects on nanocomposite objects. His doctoral research, supervised by L. H. Khalsa, investigates the hygrothermal effects on nanocomposite materials, contributing to the understanding of material behavior under varying thermal and moisture conditions.

Awards

Nagesh’s dedication to academic excellence is reflected in his qualifications and research contributions. His academic journey has been marked by significant achievements, including his qualification in SET and his ongoing Ph.D. research under the guidance of a respected mentor.

Publications

Dhore, N. & Khalsa, L. (2022). “Hygrothermal effects on nanocomposite objects: A Review Article”, Aayushi International Interdisciplinary Research Journal, vol. 03, pp. 618-622.

Dhore, N. & Khalsa, L. (2023). “An analytical solution of time-fractional order hygrothermoelastic response of cylinder by ramp type heating”, International Journal Of Researches In Biosciences, Agriculture, And Technology, vol. II (XI), pp. 177-184.

Dhore, N., Khalsa, L., & Varghese, V. (2023). “Hygrothermoelastic analysis of non-simplenanobeam induced by ramp-type heating”, Archive of Applied Mechanics, vol. 93, pp. 3379-3392. DOI link.

Dhore, N., Khalsa, L., & Varghese, V. (2024). “Transient hygrothermoelastic damping analysis of cylindrical nanobeams within a fractional order system”, Acta Mechanica, vol. 235, pp. 285-301. DOI link.