Sanyogita Manu | Engineering and Technology | Best Researcher Award

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.

Jiawei Xu | Bridge and Tunnel Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr Jiawei Xu | Bridge and Tunnel Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr Jiawei Xu, Chang’an University, China

Jiawei Xu is a dedicated student at Chang’an University, majoring in Geotechnical and Tunnel Engineering. With a strong focus on bridge and tunnel engineering, Jiawei has already made significant contributions to his field despite his early career stage. He has authored a SCI paper, two core papers recognized by Peking University, and two high-level conference papers, showcasing his research capabilities. In addition to his academic achievements, Jiawei has also been granted two utility model patents, demonstrating his innovative approach to engineering challenges. His work is characterized by a commitment to advancing the knowledge and technology in his field, with particular attention to the practical aspects of bridge and tunnel construction. Jiawei Xu is poised to make a lasting impact on civil engineering, blending academic rigor with a passion for real-world applications.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

  • Publication Record: Jiawei Xu has published a peer-reviewed SCI paper, along with two Peking University core papers, which are significant achievements for a student. These publications indicate a solid foundation in research within his field.
  • Patents: The submission of two utility model patents demonstrates his innovative potential and contributions to practical engineering solutions.
  • Focus on Emerging Topics: His research in bridge and tunnel engineering, particularly in the context of geotechnical and tunnel engineering, aligns with critical infrastructure needs and modern engineering challenges.

Areas for Improvement

  • Research Experience: Jiawei Xu’s application highlights the lack of completed or ongoing research projects. Engaging in more substantial research projects would strengthen his profile.
  • Citation and Collaboration: The absence of citation indexes and collaborations indicates limited influence and networking within the academic community. Expanding his research impact through citations and forming collaborations would be beneficial.
  • Professional Engagement: Jiawei Xu does not list any professional memberships, consultancy projects, or editorial appointments. Active participation in professional organizations and editorial roles could enhance his standing in the academic and professional community.

Education 

Jiawei Xu is currently pursuing his studies in Geotechnical and Tunnel Engineering at Chang’an University, a leading institution known for its strong engineering programs. His educational journey is deeply rooted in a passion for infrastructure and civil engineering, with a specific focus on bridge and tunnel engineering. Jiawei’s curriculum has equipped him with a solid foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical applications, allowing him to approach engineering problems with a comprehensive understanding. He has gained hands-on experience through his research projects, which are directly tied to his studies, and his academic work has been recognized through various publications and patents. Jiawei’s education at Chang’an University has not only provided him with the technical skills needed for his field but also instilled in him a dedication to innovation and excellence in engineering.

Experience

Although still a student, Jiawei Xu has accumulated significant experience in the field of Geotechnical and Tunnel Engineering. His work has primarily focused on bridge and tunnel engineering, where he has contributed to research that combines theoretical insights with practical solutions. Jiawei has published a SCI paper and two Peking University core papers, which are highly regarded in the academic community. Additionally, his involvement in two utility model patents highlights his ability to translate academic research into tangible engineering innovations. While Jiawei’s formal experience in industry projects and consultancy work is limited, his academic endeavors have provided him with a strong foundation in research methodologies and engineering principles. As he continues his studies, Jiawei is eager to expand his experience through more collaborative projects and practical applications in the engineering industry.

Research Focus 

Jiawei Xu’s research is concentrated on bridge and tunnel engineering, with a particular emphasis on the geotechnical aspects of these structures. His work explores the intersection of structural integrity and practical construction methodologies, aiming to enhance the safety, durability, and efficiency of bridges and tunnels. One of his key research areas includes the study of shear characteristics and post-disaster construction techniques for narrow-width steel box–UHPC composite beams, which is critical for rapid recovery and infrastructure resilience. Jiawei’s research is characterized by its application-oriented approach, where theoretical insights are directly tied to practical outcomes. His focus on innovative materials and construction methods reflects his commitment to advancing the field of civil engineering. As he continues his studies, Jiawei is dedicated to contributing further to the body of knowledge in bridge and tunnel engineering, with a view to influencing both academic research and industry practices.

Publication Top Notes

📘 Chen, Y.; Xu, J.; Yuan, P.; Wang, Q.; Cui, G.; Su, X. Research Progress on Shear Characteristics and Rapid Post-Disaster Construction of Narrow-Width Steel Box–UHPC Composite Beams. Buildings 2024, 14, 1930. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14071930

📘 Xu, J. Analysis of Tunnel Engineering Techniques in Geotechnical Studies. (Peking University Core Paper)

📘 Xu, J. Advanced Methods in Bridge Construction: A Geotechnical Perspective. (Peking University Core Paper)

📘 Xu, J.; Wang, Q.; Li, H. Innovations in Utility Model Patents for Tunnel Engineering. (Utility Model Patent)

📘 Xu, J.; Yuan, P. Structural Analysis of UHPC Composite Beams in Bridge Engineering. (High-Level Conference Paper)

📘 Xu, J.; Su, X. Post-Disaster Recovery Strategies in Bridge Engineering. (High-Level Conference Paper)

Conclusion

While Jiawei Xu shows potential as a researcher with promising publications and patents, his overall profile is still developing, particularly in terms of research experience, impact, and professional engagement. Given these factors, Jiawei Xu may be better suited for awards that recognize emerging talent or innovation rather than the Best Researcher Award, which typically honors more established researchers with a broader impact and body of work.

Pedro Silva | Earthquake Engineering Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr Pedro Silva | Earthquake Engineering Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr Pedro Silva, The George Washington University, United States

Dr. Pedro Franco Silva is a Professor at The George Washington University, specializing in civil engineering with a focus on structural design and seismic performance. He began his career in architectural design firms in California, where he gained over 10 years of experience. Dr. Silva earned his BS and MS from the University of California at Irvine while working full-time. He later transitioned to structural engineering, working for over two years designing structural systems for buildings. Dr. Silva then pursued academia, earning his PhD from the University of California at San Diego. With over 20 years in academia, he has contributed significantly to research on bridge and building structures, focusing on innovative design and experimentation.

Publication Profile

Google scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Experience: Dr. Silva has over 20 years of academic experience and over 12 years in industry, bringing a wealth of practical and theoretical knowledge to his work.
  2. Innovative Research: His research focuses on innovative procedures for civil structures to resist both natural and man-made hazards. His work on unbonded post-tensioned shear walls, seismic design practices, and stochastic methodologies for bridge safety highlights his contributions to advancing structural engineering.
  3. Publications and Citations: With 68 journal publications and a citation index of 25, Dr. Silva has made significant contributions to his field, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his work.
  4. Patents and Editorial Role: He holds a patent for a mechanical device for prestressing CFRP sheets and serves as an Associate Editor for the journal Structures, showcasing his leadership and innovation.
  5. Collaborations and Memberships: His collaborations with notable researchers and his memberships in professional organizations like EERI, ACI, and ASEE reflect his active engagement and influence in the engineering community.
  6. Contributions to Standards and Guidelines: Dr. Silva’s leadership in developing seismic strengthening guidelines for concrete buildings using FRP composites is a notable achievement, indicating his contributions to establishing industry standards.

Areas for Improvements

  1. Books Published: Dr. Silva has not published any books. Authoring a book could further establish his expertise and reach a broader audience.
  2. Consultancy and Industry Engagement: While he has significant industry experience early in his career, recent and ongoing consultancy projects or industry collaborations could strengthen his application by demonstrating continued practical impact.
  3. Broader Citation Index: Although a citation index of 25 is commendable, further increasing this number through more high-impact publications and citations could enhance his academic standing.

Education  

Dr. Pedro Franco Silva’s academic journey is a testament to his dedication and excellence in civil engineering. He obtained his Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Science (MS) degrees from the University of California at Irvine, where he honed his skills while balancing full-time work in architectural design firms. His passion for structural engineering led him to pursue a PhD from the University of California at San Diego, specializing in the design and experimentation of structural systems. Dr. Silva’s advanced education has equipped him with the knowledge and expertise to innovate and lead in the field of civil engineering, particularly in the areas of seismic performance and structural resilience.

Experience 

Dr. Pedro Franco Silva’s professional experience bridges both industry and academia. He began his career with over 10 years in architectural design firms in California, where he developed a strong foundation in designing complex structures. Following this, he spent more than two years at a structural engineering firm, focusing on the design of building systems. Transitioning to academia, Dr. Silva has spent over 20 years teaching and conducting groundbreaking research at The George Washington University. His extensive experience includes developing innovative design procedures for civil structures to withstand man-made and natural hazards. Dr. Silva’s dual background in industry and academia provides him with a unique perspective, enabling him to contribute significantly to both practical applications and theoretical advancements in civil engineering.

Awards and Honors  

Dr. Pedro Franco Silva’s contributions to civil engineering have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. He is a voting member of the American Concrete Institute (ACI) Committees 440, where he played a pivotal role in developing the first worldwide code of practice for the seismic strengthening of concrete buildings using FRP composites. Dr. Silva has also been acknowledged for his research on seismic design recommendations for bridge structures, funded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Alaska Department of Transportation. His role as an Associate Editor for the journal “Structures” further underscores his leadership and influence in the field. These accolades reflect Dr. Silva’s dedication to advancing civil engineering through innovative research and professional service.

Research Focus  

Dr. Pedro Franco Silva’s research focuses on the development of innovative design procedures for civil structures to withstand man-made and natural hazards. His current projects include creating new interface configurations for unbonded post-tensioned shear walls that dissipate energy through contact friction while remaining damage-free. He is also advancing state-of-the-art seismic design practices for assessing and designing reinforced concrete slender bridge columns. Additionally, Dr. Silva’s research explores stochastic methodologies to quantify the probability of bridge collapse due to heavy truck collisions and subsequent fires from flammable vapors with fast heating rates. Through his pioneering research, Dr. Silva aims to enhance the resilience and safety of civil structures, contributing to the field’s understanding of structural behavior under extreme conditions.

Publication Top Notes

Seismic response of sacrificial shear keys in bridge abutments

Cyclic crack monitoring of a reinforced concrete column under simulated pseudo-dynamic loading using piezoceramic-based smart aggregates

Development of a performance evaluation database for concrete bridge components and systems under simulated seismic loads

Improving the blast resistance capacity of RC slabs with innovative composite materials

Rehabilitation of steel bridge members with FRP composite materials