Raouf Hassan | Environmental Engineering | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Raouf Hassan | Environmental Engineering | Best Academic Researcher Award 

Associate professor at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University ,Saudi Arabia

Dr. Raouf Ahmed Mohamed Hassan is an Associate Professor of Civil and at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With a Ph.D. from Nantes University, France, he specializes in environmental engineering, particularly wastewater treatment, greywater recycling, and sustainable waste management. He began his academic journey in Egypt, earning his B.Sc. from South Valley University, and later pursued advanced studies in France. Dr. Hassan has contributed significantly to academia through his teaching, supervision of numerous undergraduate projects, and active participation in international conferences. His research integrates environmental sustainability with modern engineering solutions, using both experimental and AI-based methodologies. A recognized figure in his field, he has received several university awards for scientific publications and served as a reviewer for top-tier international journals. Multilingual and globally engaged, Dr. Hassan continues to promote eco-friendly solutions for water and waste challenges in arid and urban environments.

👨‍🔬 Professional Profile

✅ Strengths for the Award

  1. Robust Academic Foundation

    • Trained in both Egypt and France, Dr. Hassan brings an international academic background rooted in civil and environmental engineering.

    • His Ph.D. from Nantes University under a renowned lab (GEPEA) gives added credibility to his scientific formation.

  2. High-Impact Research Contributions

    • Over 40 peer-reviewed publications, many in reputable journals like Scientific Reports and Desalination and Water Treatment.

    • Research integrates AI, machine learning, and experimental design, showcasing innovation in predictive environmental modeling.

  3. Award-Winning Excellence

    • Multiple University Awards for Scientific Publications (both in Egypt and Saudi Arabia).

    • Recipient of Best Article Award (2024)—a recognition of the novelty and utility of his work.

  4. Applied Focus on Sustainable Solutions

    • Projects on greywater reuse, biochar-based CO₂ adsorption, and zero-liquid discharge show real-world applicability.

    • Research supports environmental sustainability in urban and arid zones, an urgent global priority.

  5. Academic Leadership and Teaching

    • 20+ years of academic service across leading institutions.

    • Extensive teaching in environmental impact assessment, wastewater engineering, and sustainability.

    • Mentored numerous student projects, showcasing commitment to future generations of engineers.

  6. Global Perspective

    • Multilingual (Arabic, English, French), internationally educated and active in collaborative research.

    • Participates in European research networks and funded projects, widening his scholarly impact.

🎓 Education

Dr. Raouf Hassan earned his B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from South Valley University, Egypt, where he developed a strong foundation in infrastructure and environmental systems. He pursued his M.Sc. and Ph.D. at Nantes University, France, specializing under the GEPEA Laboratory. His academic training in France equipped him with advanced knowledge in wastewater treatment technologies, anaerobic digestion, and gas-liquid mass transfer. During his postgraduate studies, Dr. Hassan was involved in European collaborative projects focused on sludge valorization and sustainable energy. His education provided interdisciplinary exposure to both engineering principles and practical environmental applications. Additionally, he has completed several professional development courses covering scientific research methodologies, teaching strategies, academic ethics, and educational technologies. Fluent in Arabic, English, and French, Dr. Hassan’s educational journey reflects a blend of local insight and international expertise, empowering him to address environmental challenges in both developing and developed contexts through innovative civil engineering solutions.

🧑‍🏫 Experience

Dr. Raouf Hassan has over two decades of academic and research experience in civil and environmental engineering. He currently serves as Associate Professor at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Saudi Arabia, a position he has held since 2025 after serving as Assistant Professor there since 2017. Earlier, he worked as a faculty member and department head at Aswan University and the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport in Egypt. His teaching portfolio includes undergraduate and postgraduate courses such as water and wastewater treatment, environmental impact assessment, and hydraulic systems. Dr. Hassan has supervised numerous student projects addressing urban water infrastructure, air pollution, and waste management in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Beyond teaching, he has led and participated in several research projects funded by the Saudi Ministry of Education. His experience also spans administrative leadership, curriculum development, and student advising, making him a vital contributor to engineering education and environmental innovation.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Raouf Hassan has received multiple accolades in recognition of his research excellence and academic contributions. He has been awarded the University Award for Scientific Publication by Aswan University for four consecutive years (2019–2022) and received the same recognition from Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in 2021 and 2022. In 2024, he was honored with the Best Article Award by the Desalination and Water Treatment journal, highlighting his impactful contributions to sustainable water management. He also held a postdoctoral fellowship in 2013 at Nantes University, supported by the Egyptian Ministry of Higher Education. In addition to these achievements, Dr. Hassan is a senior member of APCBEES and an active reviewer for prominent international journals and conferences in environmental engineering. His consistent recognition reflects both the quality and relevance of his research, which spans water treatment, greywater reuse, and waste-to-energy systems across regional and international contexts.

🔬 Research Focus on Environmental Engineering

Dr. Raouf Hassan’s research is centered on sustainable environmental engineering, particularly focusing on wastewater treatment, anaerobic digestion, sludge valorization, and solid waste management. He integrates conventional and advanced techniques such as biogas production, membrane filtration, and eco-friendly materials to address water and waste challenges in urban and arid environments. His recent projects have explored sustainable greywater management in mosques, techno-economic assessments of water purification systems, and AI-based models for predicting environmental parameters. Dr. Hassan is also deeply involved in developing zero-liquid discharge systems and reusing agricultural residues for water filtration. With over 40 peer-reviewed publications and participation in global research initiatives, his work blends experimental rigor with practical application, often involving interdisciplinary collaboration. His research is funded by major bodies like the Deanship for Research & Innovation and the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia. Dr. Hassan’s scientific endeavors aim to create resource-efficient, climate-resilient, and cost-effective environmental solutions for future-ready cities.

📚 Publication Top Notes

Predicting CO₂ adsorption in KOH-activated biochar using advanced machine learning techniques

Journal: Scientific Reports, 2025
Authors: [Author names not provided]
Summary:
This study develops advanced machine learning models to predict the CO₂ adsorption capacity of KOH-activated biochar. The researchers utilized various algorithms to analyze experimental data, enabling precise modeling of adsorption behavior. The results reveal key parameters influencing performance and demonstrate that machine learning can significantly enhance the accuracy and speed of material screening for carbon capture technologies.

Machine learning frameworks to accurately estimate the adsorption of organic materials onto resin and biochar

Journal: Scientific Reports, 2025
Authors: [Author names not provided]
Summary:
This research investigates the use of machine learning techniques to estimate the adsorption of organic compounds onto resin and biochar materials. The study employs several regression models trained on experimental data to predict adsorption efficiency. Findings show that machine learning offers a reliable and efficient alternative to traditional methods in evaluating adsorbent materials for applications in environmental remediation and water purification.

🧾 Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Raouf Ahmed Mohamed Hassan stands out as a distinguished scholar and practitioner in the realm of civil and environmental engineering. His academic qualifications, international training, and extensive teaching experience position him as a leader in both educational and research domains. His multidisciplinary approach bridges environmental sustainability with engineering innovation, addressing pressing issues such as wastewater treatment, solid waste management, and air quality assessment. Recognized with multiple university-level awards and international journal accolades, Dr. Hassan continues to contribute meaningfully to science and society. His dedication to student mentorship, administrative service, and global collaboration reflects his commitment to holistic academic excellence. Through his research, he not only addresses critical environmental challenges but also provides scalable, real-world solutions tailored to urban and arid environments. As the world grapples with climate change and resource scarcity, Dr. Hassan’s vision, expertise, and innovative thinking offer valuable pathways toward sustainable development and environmental resilience.

Mahamat Abdallah | Sustainability | Young Researcher Award

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Mr. Mahamat Abdallah | Sustainability | Young Researcher Award

Civil Engineer, Beijing Jiaotong University, China

Mahamat Nour Issa Abdallah is an emerging civil engineer and researcher specializing in sustainable infrastructure in arid regions. He earned his BSc in Civil Engineering from Shenyang Jianzhu University, China, and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree at Beijing Jiaotong University. His professional journey includes roles as a Site Engineer and Engineering Department Supervisor in China and the UAE, where he managed diverse projects focusing on quality control, design coordination, and regulatory compliance. Fluent in English, Arabic, and Mandarin, Mahamat’s multicultural proficiency enhances his collaborative capabilities. His research, particularly on wind erosion and sand deposition in desert railways, reflects a commitment to addressing environmental challenges through geospatial analysis and innovative engineering solutions. Mahamat’s blend of academic rigor and practical experience positions him as a promising contributor to sustainable civil engineering practices.

Profile

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🎓 Education 

  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
    Shenyang Jianzhu University, China (2016–2020)
    Focused on structural analysis, construction materials, and project management, laying a strong foundation in civil engineering principles.

  • Master of Science in Civil Engineering
    Beijing Jiaotong University, China (2021–Present)
    Specializing in geospatial analysis and sustainable infrastructure, Mahamat’s research addresses mitigation strategies for wind erosion and sand deposition in desert railway systems. His interdisciplinary approach combines environmental science with civil engineering to develop resilient infrastructure solutions.

🏗️ Experience 

  • Intern, Shenyang ZhongHeng Construction Engineering L.L.C, China (2019–2020)
    Conducted daily site inspections, quality control, and manpower reporting. Assisted in reviewing and modifying fit-out drawings, coordinating with site supervisors and technicians.

  • Site Engineer, DHCN Construction L.L.C, Dubai, UAE (2021–2022)
    Oversaw daily site operations, ensured quality standards, coordinated with foremen, and managed progress reporting. Handled inspection approvals and rectification of non-conformance reports.

  • Engineering Department Supervisor, Origin International Management L.L.C & AL Qimma Engineering Consultancy L.L.C, Abu Dhabi, UAE (2022–Present)
    Managed coordination between consultants and contractors for shop drawing approvals, designed architectural and electrical drawings, and arranged fit-out quotations. Handled site inspections, obtained necessary NOCs, and ensured compliance with fire safety systems. Reported weekly progress and handed over completed projects to clients.

🔬 Research

Mahamat’s research centers on sustainable infrastructure development in arid regions, with a particular emphasis on mitigating wind erosion and sand deposition affecting desert railways. Utilizing geospatial analysis and computational modeling, his work aims to develop effective strategies for maintaining the integrity and safety of railway systems subjected to harsh desert conditions. His interdisciplinary approach integrates environmental science, civil engineering, and data analytics to address the challenges posed by sand accumulation on railway tracks. By focusing on the optimization of sand mitigation measures, Mahamat contributes to the advancement of resilient infrastructure solutions that are crucial for the sustainability of transportation networks in desert environments.MDPI

📚 Publication Top Notes

1. Mitigation Measures for Wind Erosion and Sand Deposition in Desert Railways: A Geospatial Analysis of Sand Accumulation Risk

  • Journal: Sustainability

  • Publication Date: April 29, 2025

  • DOI: 10.3390/su17094016

  • Contributors: Mahamat Nour Issa Abdallah, Tan Qulin, Mohamed Ramadan, Providence Habumuremyi

Summary:
This study presents a geospatial analysis of sand accumulation risks affecting desert railways. By integrating environmental data and computational modeling, the research identifies critical areas prone to wind erosion and sand deposition. The findings offer valuable insights into the development of targeted mitigation strategies to enhance the resilience and safety of railway infrastructure in arid regions.

Conclusion

Mahamat Nour Issa Abdallah is a promising early-career civil engineer with a strong combination of practical experience, multilingual ability, and emerging research in sustainable infrastructure. His work is especially relevant to Middle Eastern and desert environments, making him a good candidate for a Young Researcher Award, particularly if the award emphasizes applied civil engineering, resilience against climate challenges, or geospatial environmental research.

Silvia Vilčeková | Sustainable construction | Best Researcher Award

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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

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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.

Shubham Jaiswal | Construction Award | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Shubham Jaiswal | Construction Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr Shubham Jaiswal, University of Birmingham ,United Kingdom

Shubham Jaiswal is a PhD candidate in Civil Engineering at the University of Birmingham, focusing on Construction 4.0 applications in developing countries. With a Master’s in Construction Management from Pune University, India, and a background in Civil Engineering, he has actively researched cost overruns in real estate projects and anaerobic digestion for biogas production. Shubham’s academic journey includes a Diploma in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor’s from Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University. He is skilled in AutoCAD, MS Office, and project management software, complemented by strong communication abilities. Outside academia, Shubham enjoys swimming, singing, and playing the Cajon box. His professional experiences include roles in student placement coordination and organizing national conferences. Currently, his research interests lie in advancing sustainable construction practices and infrastructure development in underserved regions.

Publication Profile

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Education

Shubham  Jaiswal holds a PhD candidacy in Civil Engineering at the University of Birmingham since March 2023. He completed his Master’s in Construction Management at Pune University, India, achieving a CGPA of 8.07, and earned a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering from Jagadambha College of Engineering and Technology with a CGPA of 8.11. His academic journey began with a Diploma in Civil Engineering from Government Polytechnic Yavatmal. Shubham has also undertaken specialized training in AutoCAD and project management software, enhancing his technical skills. His educational pursuits reflect a commitment to advancing knowledge in sustainable infrastructure and construction practices, particularly in addressing challenges faced by developing countries.

Experience 

Shubham Jaiswal brings diverse academic and professional experiences to his role. He served as Student Placement Coordinator at Jagadambha College of Engineering and Technology, Yavatmal, Maharashtra, India, overseeing student career development initiatives. Additionally, he contributed significantly as an organizing committee member for the national conference ‘XPLORE-17’. Shubham’s research journey includes investigating factors contributing to cost overruns in Indian real estate projects and exploring anaerobic digestion for biogas production from cow dung slurry. He has also conducted feasibility studies on innovative construction materials like jute fiber and artificial sand. These experiences underscore his dedication to bridging theoretical knowledge with practical applications in civil engineering, aiming to enhance infrastructure sustainability and efficiency.

Research focus

Shubham  Jaiswal’s research focuses on advancing Construction 4.0 methodologies in developing countries, particularly in improving construction efficiency and sustainability. His current PhD research at the University of Birmingham explores the application of digital technologies and automation to optimize infrastructure development processes. Previously, his studies have addressed critical issues such as cost overruns in real estate projects and innovative approaches to waste management through biogas production. Shubham is committed to leveraging his expertise in civil engineering and construction management to propose viable solutions that cater to the unique challenges faced by emerging economies. His work aims to foster inclusive and sustainable development practices that prioritize environmental stewardship and community well-being.

Publication Top Notes

“Construction 4.0: A Systematic Review of Its Application in Developing Countries”