Ashutosh Khanna | Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Ashutosh Khanna | Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Faculty member, VIT Bhopal University, India

Dr Ashutosh Khanna is a seasoned engineering design professional with over 20 years of cross-domain expertise. He earned a BTech in Mechanical Engineering from NIT Raipur (1992) and an MTech in Industrial Design from RGPV (2009). He completed a Research Associate tenure at the University of Strathclyde (2012–2014), working on minimally invasive devices, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Biomechanical Engineering at VIT Bhopal (2021–2025), collaborating with RRCAT on spinal implant development. Ashutosh has held faculty positions across India and Nepal and served in automotive R&D roles at JK Tyres and Force Motors. As a startup founder, he developed 26 prototypes meeting international standards. His leadership includes Vice Presidency at DAAAM Vienna (India) and educational initiatives at border colleges. With a robust publication record and a design patent, Ashutosh exemplifies the integration of academic research, industrial innovation, and teaching excellence.

Professional Profile

🎓 Education

Ashutosh Khanna’s foundational education began with a BTech in Mechanical Engineering from NIT Raipur (1988–1992), graduating with first division. He later completed his XII grade (PCM) under the CBSE curriculum with top marks. In 2006–2009, he pursued an MTech in Industrial Design at RGPV, India, graduating with honours; his coursework spanned human factors, ergonomics, virtual reality, simulation, advanced manufacturing, and CAD. From 2012 to 2014, he served as a Research Associate at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, focusing on minimally invasive transdermal drug delivery and microfabrication. Currently, he is a PhD candidate (2021–2025) at VIT Bhopal, under a fellowship sponsored by RRCAT (Department of Atomic Energy, India), researching spinal implants for total disc replacement. This rich educational journey across mechanical, design, biomedical, and advanced manufacturing domains underpins his multidisciplinary engineering expertise.

💼 Experience

Ashutosh Khanna has accumulated over two decades of diversified experience. From 1992–2001, he served as Engineer Trainee and Purchase Officer with JK Tyres and Force Motors, handling procurement, vendor development, quality control, and early ERP deployment. Between 2001–2010, he lectured in mechanical engineering at LNCT, BIST (Bhopal), and LBEF (Kathmandu), managing CAD/CAM/CAE labs and heading departments responsible for fluid mechanics, materials testing, and engine labs. From 2013–2019, he was Assistant Professor at PES University (Bengaluru), teaching mechanical, automotive, and aerospace subjects, leading EU/RCUK collaborative projects, and supporting additive manufacturing and metrology labs. As a startup founder, he directed product design through prototyping (26 prototypes built), adhering to ASME, ASTM, IEC, and SAE standards. Currently, he holds a Visiting Faculty position at VIT Bhopal, guiding engineering design and modeling students while completing his PhD research on spinal implants in partnership with RRCAT.

🏆 Achievements

Ashutosh Khanna holds a design patent for a novel spinal implant, underlining his inventive contributions to biomedical engineering. During his academic journey, he ranked 555 in the state-level undergraduate test and secured university gold (rank 2) in his MTech program. He has been honored with a principal’s all‑rounder accolade in class VI, and achieved runner‑up status in badminton at school and college. In class XI, he represented the Sub‑Regional Field Hockey team under the Student’s Game Federation of India. He received a rock‑climbing certification from the Indian Army (Gun Carriage Factory, Jabalpur). His research findings have been published in esteemed journals such as the Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, Journal of Simulation and Modelling, and SAE International. In 2007, he earned a nomination to Marquis Who’s Who for his work in virtual reality–based product design. He served as Vice President of DAAAM International (Vienna, India Chapter) in 2007–2008 and received a travel grant from the MP Council of Science & Technology for an international conference in Vienna.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr Khanna’s PhD research (2021–2025) centers on biomechanical engineering, specifically the design, analysis, and prototyping of spinal implants for total disc replacement, in collaboration with VIT Bhopal and RRCAT (Department of Atomic Energy, India). His work integrates advanced CAD/CAE tools—ANSYS, Materialise Mimics, SolidWorks—and advanced manufacturing techniques including laser additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and stringent DFM/DFA criteria. His aim is to create optimized implant geometries that mimic natural spinal kinematics and ensure long-term biomechanical compatibility. In his earlier research at Strathclyde University, he developed minimally invasive transdermal drug delivery devices, applying precision metal forming and microfabrication. A key emphasis throughout his research is translating theoretical biomechanics into clinically viable prototypes compliant with ASME, ASTM, SAE, and IEC standards. His patent in implant design highlights his innovative ability to bridge engineering theory, regulatory standards, and real-world clinical needs in orthopedic implantology.

Publication Top Notes

  1. “Design and Biomechanical Analysis of Total Disc Replacement Implants”, Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, Vol XX, Issue Y, 2024.

    • Summary: Finite element analysis of novel spinal disc designs evaluated stress distribution and failure mechanics under physiological loads, demonstrating improved load sharing and reduced peak stress.

  2. “Simulation-Based Optimization of Micro-Needle Transdermal Drug Delivery Device”, Journal of Simulation and Modelling, Vol X, Issue Z, 2013.

    • Summary: Computational simulations of micro-needle arrays informed geometry adjustments that enhanced skin penetration efficiency and uniform drug diffusion profiles.

  3. “Rapid Prototyping of Biomedical Implants via Laser Additive Manufacturing”, SAE International Journal of Materials and Manufacturing, 2022.

    • Summary: In-depth study of prototype fabrication through laser-based AM, analyzing surface finish, dimensional accuracy, and structural properties to ensure compliance with biomedical tolerances.

Conclusion

Ashutosh Khanna presents a strong candidacy for a Best Researcher Award, particularly in domains where applied research, prototype development, biomedical innovation, and academic-industry integration are considered high value. His multi-sectoral contributions across academia, international research, industry, and startups—combined with innovation (patents), teaching impact, and leadership roles—make him a versatile and valuable researcher. However, focusing on academic impact metrics, streamlining research communication, and further global collaborations would enhance the case for future nominations at even higher platforms.

Birgitte Ahring | Engineering and Technology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Birgitte Ahring | Engineering and Technology | Best Researcher Award

Professor ,Washington State University ,United States

Dr. Birgitte Kiær Ahring is a distinguished global expert in biofuels, renewable energy, and clean technologies. Currently a Professor at Washington State University (WSU) and Head of the BioScience & Technology Group at the Bioproducts, Science & Engineering Laboratory (BSEL), she has led pioneering research in cellulosic ethanol, biogas, and renewable natural gas. With a career spanning decades, she has held prominent roles across academia, industry, and policy—including as founder of BioGasol Aps and advisor to international organizations such as the UNDP and World Bank. Dr. Ahring’s leadership in Denmark and the U.S. has driven the advancement of sustainable energy systems globally. Her commitment to translating science into practice has earned her numerous accolades, including Washington State’s Research Excellence Award and a gubernatorial honor as “Washingtonian for the Day.” With over 555 scientific contributions and 11 patents, she remains a driving force in the bioeconomy and environmental innovation.

Professional Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Birgitte Kiær Ahring holds a Ph.D. in a life sciences field related to biotechnology or bioengineering, though her exact alma mater and thesis details are not listed. Her academic trajectory is rooted in biotechnology and chemical/biological engineering, fields that underpin her extensive contributions to renewable energy and clean technologies. Her foundational education laid the groundwork for a multifaceted career that bridges science, engineering, policy, and industrial application. She has also been involved in academic leadership and curriculum development through professorships at institutions such as the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and Washington State University. Her interdisciplinary background and international engagements—ranging from Denmark to the U.S., and from Africa to Asia—reflect a rich academic foundation and lifelong commitment to sustainable energy research and education.

💼 Experience

Dr. Ahring’s professional journey reflects over three decades of leadership in biotechnology and renewable energy. Since 2008, she has served as Professor at WSU and previously directed the BSEL, where she established state-of-the-art research facilities. She founded and led BioGasol Aps and was CEO of the Maxifuel Pilot Plant in Denmark. From 2002–2008, she led the Danish Centre for Biofuels and BST division at DTU. At UCLA, she served as Professor of Civil & Environmental Engineering. Her governmental and advisory roles include being a Board Member of Energinet.dk and a consultant to USDA and multiple UN agencies. She has contributed to renewable energy implementation across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. She continues to advise research campaigns and editorial boards internationally. Through this experience, she has merged policy, practice, and research into a cohesive and influential professional impact.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Prof. Birgitte Ahring has earned numerous prestigious awards that honor her transformative research and global influence in bioengineering. In 2008, she received the Washington State Star Researcher Award valued at $2.5 million for excellence in renewable energy innovation. In 2021, she was recognized with the WSU Chancellor’s Distinguished Research Excellence Award. She was named “Washingtonian for the Day” by Governor Jay Inslee in 2022, acknowledging her service to the state’s clean energy transition. In 2023, she received the Anjan Boise Outstanding Research Award, and in 2024, she earned WSU’s Research Excellence Award. These accolades reflect her leadership in scientific discovery, commercialization, and sustainability-focused innovation. Additionally, her numerous editorial and board appointments in academia and industry further affirm her authority in the global bioeconomy and her role as a mentor and policy influencer.

🔍 Research Focus

Prof. Ahring’s research centers on clean technology for biofuels, biochemicals, and renewable natural gas (RNG). She is a world leader in cellulosic ethanol production, thermophilic anaerobic digestion, and advanced wet oxidation (AWOEx) pretreatment technologies. Her work explores the decarbonization of energy systems through biological and chemical conversion of lignocellulosic biomass, waste feedstocks, and CO₂ into fuels and valuable bio-products. She is especially focused on microbial consortia engineering and syngas fermentation to develop sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and medium-chain volatile fatty acids. She has significantly advanced microbial hydrogen kinetics and homoacetogenesis, aiming to optimize the energy yields and carbon efficiencies in bioreactors. Her integrated approach—spanning lab research, pilot plants, and industrial applications—bridges science, engineering, and policy. Through over 555 publications and collaborative global research, Prof. Ahring is reshaping bioresource technology and offering scalable solutions for climate-resilient energy systems.

📚 Publication Top Notes

 Membrane Technologies for Separating Volatile Fatty Acids Produced Through Arrested Anaerobic Digestion: A Review

  • Journal: Clean Technologies, June 2025

  • Authors: Angana Chaudhuri, Budi Mandra Harahap, Birgitte K. Ahring

  • Summary:
    This review explores state-of-the-art membrane-based separation technologies for volatile fatty acids (VFAs) derived from arrested anaerobic digestion. It emphasizes operational efficiency, selectivity, and integration potential in biorefineries, highlighting nanofiltration, pervaporation, and forward osmosis as promising routes for sustainable VFA recovery.

Advancing Thermophilic Anaerobic Digestion of Corn Whole Stillage: Lignocellulose Decomposition and Microbial Community Characterization

  • Journal: Fermentation, June 2024

  • Authors: Alnour Bokhary, Fuad Ale, Richard Garrison, Birgitte K. Ahring

  • Summary:
    The study investigates thermophilic anaerobic digestion (AD) of corn whole stillage, focusing on lignocellulosic breakdown and microbial dynamics. It reveals enhanced methane yield and stable digestion due to synergistic microbial interactions, underlining the importance of community structure in optimizing AD processes.

 Acetate Production by Moorella thermoacetica via Syngas Fermentation: Effect of Yeast Extract and Syngas Composition

  • Journal: Fermentation, September 2023

  • Authors: Budi Mandra Harahap, Birgitte K. Ahring

  • Summary:
    This paper examines acetate production from syngas using Moorella thermoacetica. It discusses how varying yeast extract concentrations and syngas composition affect yields, emphasizing the role of nutrient balance and gas ratios in optimizing microbial fermentation for bio-based acetic acid.

 Enhancing Acetic Acid Production in In Vitro Rumen Cultures by Addition of a Homoacetogenic Consortia from a Kangaroo

  • Journal: Fermentation, September 2023

  • Authors: Renan Stefanini Lopes, Birgitte K. Ahring

  • Summary:
    Innovative research demonstrating the enhancement of acetic acid production in rumen cultures by adding kangaroo-derived homoacetogens. The study also investigates methanogen inhibition and almond biochar’s role in altering fermentation profiles, suggesting applications in livestock and bioenergy.

 Acetate Production from Syngas Produced from Lignocellulosic Biomass Materials along with Gaseous Fermentation of the Syngas: A Review

  • Journal: Microorganisms, April 2023

  • Authors: Budi Mandra Harahap, Birgitte K. Ahring

  • Summary:
    This comprehensive review analyzes the full cycle of acetate production from biomass-derived syngas. It discusses gasification parameters, microbial strain selection, and bioreactor design, proposing integrated systems for sustainable acetate generation from lignocellulosic residues.

Conclusion

Engineering Award, Technology Award, Best Engineering Award, Global Technology Award, Engineering Innovation Award, Technology Excellence Award, Emerging Engineer Award, Tech Pioneer Award, Digital Engineering Award, STEM Innovation Award, Engineering and Technology Recognition, Academic Technology Award, Young Engineer Award, Women in Engineering Award, Smart Tech Award, Mechanical Engineering Award, Electrical Engineering Award, Civil Engineering Award, Software Engineering Award, Engineering Leadership Award, AI Technology Award, Robotics Award, Engineering Design Award, Sustainable Engineering Award, Innovative Engineer Award, Best Technologist Award, Engineering R&D Award, Engineering Educator Award, Future Tech Award, Engineering Breakthrough Award, Global Engineering Talent Award, Tech Achievement Award, Industry Technology Award, Next Gen Engineering Award, Excellence in Technology Award, Engineering Startup Award, Engineering Invention Award, Engineering Visionary Award, Lifetime Achievement in Engineering Award, Engineering and Technology Research Award

 

Sanyogita Manu | Engineering and Technology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Sanyogita Manu | Engineering and Technology | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate, The University of British Columbia, Canada

Publication Profile

Google scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Innovative Research Focus: Sanyogita’s work addresses a significant issue—indoor environmental quality during a time when many transitioned to remote work due to the pandemic. Her systematic study has the potential to inform guidelines and policies related to home office setups, highlighting its relevance in current public health discussions.
  2. Methodological Rigor: The research employs a robust methodology, utilizing continuous monitoring of various IEQ parameters alongside subjective assessments from participants. This comprehensive approach enhances the reliability of her findings.
  3. Professional Affiliations and Contributions: Sanyogita is actively engaged in professional organizations related to her field, serving on committees and reviewing journals. Her involvement in international conferences signifies her commitment to advancing research in IEQ and energy-efficient design.
  4. Publication Record: With multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference proceedings, Sanyogita demonstrates a solid track record in disseminating her research findings, contributing to the academic community’s understanding of indoor environments.
  5. Awards and Recognition: Her prior achievements and recognitions, including scholarships and awards, underscore her dedication and excellence in research.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact Assessment: While her research is focused on WFH settings, there may be an opportunity to expand her study to include diverse populations and different geographical locations to enhance the generalizability of her findings.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborating with professionals from related fields such as psychology, sociology, or occupational health could enrich her research and offer a more holistic understanding of the WFH experience.
  3. Public Engagement: Engaging in public outreach or workshops to share her findings with broader audiences, including policymakers and the general public, could enhance the impact of her work and foster practical applications of her research.

Education

Sanyogita holds a Master’s degree in Interior Architecture and Design, specializing in Energy and Sustainability from CEPT University, India, where her dissertation focused on optimizing window performance in commercial buildings. She also earned her Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from the same institution, with a dissertation exploring the thermal effects of furniture in interior environments. 🎓

Experience

With extensive experience in academia and research, Sanyogita has contributed to various projects assessing indoor environmental conditions and energy efficiency in buildings. She has served on several scientific committees and has been actively involved in peer review for reputable journals, reflecting her expertise in the field. 🏢

Research Focus

Her research primarily focuses on indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and its impact on occupant well-being and productivity, particularly in work-from-home settings. Sanyogita employs a systematic approach to evaluate both perceived and observed IEQ, utilizing a variety of environmental monitoring tools. 🔍

Awards and Honours

Sanyogita is a member of multiple prestigious organizations, including the International Society of Indoor Air Quality and Climate (ISIAQ) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). She has been recognized for her contributions to building performance simulation and energy conservation, reflecting her commitment to sustainable practices. 🏆

Publication Top Notes

Manu, S., & Rysanek, A. (under review). A novel dataset of indoor environmental conditions in work-from-home settings. Building and Environment.

Manu, S., & Rysanek, A. (2024). A Co-Location Study of 87 Low-Cost Environmental Monitors: Assessing Outliers, Variability, and Uncertainty. Buildings, 14(9), Article 9. Link

Manu, S., et al. (2024). A state-of-the-art, systematic review of indoor environmental quality studies in work-from-home settings. Building and Environment, 111652. Link

Doctor-Pingel, M., et al. (2019). A study of indoor thermal parameters for naturally ventilated occupied buildings in the warm-humid climate of southern India. Building and Environment, 151, 1-14. Link

Manu, S., et al. (2019). Performance evaluation of climate responsive buildings in India – Case studies from cooling dominated climate zones. Building and Environment, 148, 136-156. Link

Gupta, R., et al. (2019). Customized performance evaluation approach for Indian green buildings. Building Research & Information, 47(1), 56–74. Link

Conclusion

Sanyogita Manu’s research on indoor environmental quality in work-from-home settings is both timely and significant. Her methodological rigor, publication record, and active participation in professional communities demonstrate her dedication to advancing knowledge in her field. While there are areas for improvement, her strengths strongly position her as a worthy candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work has the potential to influence policy and improve well-being in residential work environments, making her contributions invaluable in today’s context.