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Sary AWADView profile

Associate Professor

• Renewable Energy
• Biofuels
• CO2 Reduction
• +5 more

Sary AWAD is an Associate Professor in the Energy and Environmental Systems department at IMT Atlantique, a leading technological university in France with campuses in Brest, Nantes, and Rennes. Based at the Nantes campus, Dr. AWAD focuses on sustainable energy solutions, particularly in the areas of biofuels, CO2 reduction, and waste valorization. Dr. AWAD's research spans multiple dimensions of renewable energy systems, with particular emphasis on biofuel production from various biomass sources, thermochemical conversion processes, and engine performance with alternative fuels. The research portfolio demonstrates expertise in both fundamental reaction engineering and applied energy systems, with publications covering biodiesel production, bioethanol from agricultural waste, plastic waste conversion, and thermal energy systems. Recent work shows increasing focus on circular economy approaches, particularly in building material recycling and non-energetic valorization of waste streams. Analysis of recent publications reveals a strong trend toward integrated systems thinking, combining technical, economic, and environmental assessment in energy research. The work spans from fundamental reaction kinetics in continuous reactors to full-scale techno-enviro-economic analysis of biofuel production facilities. There is particular expertise in process intensification techniques, including chaotic mixing for biodiesel production and advanced heat transfer solutions for energy systems. Dr. AWAD's research has significant implications for sustainable energy transition, with practical applications in transportation fuels, waste management, and building sustainability. The work bridges fundamental chemical engineering principles with real-world implementation challenges in the energy sector.

• Green Blue Infrastructure
• Climate Adaptation
• Sustainable Landscape Technology
• +10 more

Bernhard Scharf is a Senior Scientist at the Institute of Soil Bioengineering and Landscape Construction at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), where he has worked since 2012. His research focuses on developing sustainable solutions for urban environments through green-blue infrastructure, climate adaptation strategies, and innovative landscape technologies. He holds a degree in landscape planning with distinction (2001) and has established himself as a leading expert in urban greening technologies and climate-resilient infrastructure. Dr. Scharf's research interests span Green Blue Infrastructure, Climate Adaptation, Sustainable Landscape Technology, Circular Soil systems, Urban Mining of materials, and Rainwater Management. His work addresses critical urban challenges through the development of indigenous seed mixtures, facade and roof planting systems, gravel turf technologies, and urban sustainable drainage systems (SUDS). He investigates how vegetation technology and material research can create functional urban ecosystems that provide essential services while adapting to climate change impacts. His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward quantifying the performance and economic value of green infrastructure. Research focuses on developing measurement methodologies for ecosystem services, creating circular soil systems, and evaluating the thermal performance of green infrastructure for urban heat mitigation. His work bridges engineering, environmental science, and urban planning to develop practical, evidence-based solutions for climate-resilient cities. Wiener Ingenieurpreis 2017 Energy Globe Österreich im Bereich Wasser 2016 Schorsch 2016 Architekturpreis Best small area Pavillon at EXPO Milano 2015 (as member of team.breathe.Austria) Studium der Landschaftsplanung mit Auszeichnung abgeschlossen 2001 Dr. Scharf has secured significant research funding from multiple sources including the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG), Federal Ministries, EU programs, and private companies. He has led numerous projects including 'Machine learning evapotranspiration estimation,' 'resilientRAIN,' and 'Development of the StreetTREE tree-planting method.' His work emphasizes practical applications that can be implemented in urban settings to address climate challenges. He collaborates extensively with interdisciplinary teams across multiple departments at BOKU and with international partners. Dr. Scharf is actively involved in developing and testing innovative technologies through the Institute of Soil Bioengineering and Landscape Construction. His work includes the development of hydroactive paving systems, moss-based bio-tech-filter facade technology (MossDule project), and vertical greening systems. He contributes to the 'GreenUrbanClimate' research initiative and works closely with the Institute of Sanitary Engineering and Water Pollution Control on integrated water management solutions. His research often involves field testing and real-world implementation of nature-based solutions for urban environments.

• Bioeconomy
• Strategic Problem Solving
• Serendipity in Innovation
• +4 more

Karl Wieland Freyer is a Researcher at the Institute for Technology and Innovation Management (TIM) within RWTH Aachen University's Faculty of Business and Economics, employed since January 2022. His work bridges strategic innovation management with bioeconomic transitions in industrial materials and regional development. His educational background includes: Master of Science in Business and Economics, RWTH Aachen University Master of Science in Molecular and Applied Biotechnology, RWTH Aachen University Study abroad at Lund University, Sweden Study abroad at Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey Freyer's research centers on bioeconomy-driven innovation, examining strategic problem formulation, serendipity in innovation processes, and user acceptance of biobased products. He investigates functionalization of traditional materials (wood, steel, glass, titanium) through bio-based innovations and analyzes value drivers for sustainable business models in structural transition contexts like the Rhenish mining region. His 2024-2025 publications reveal a concentrated focus on bioeconomic material innovation, with whitepaper series dissecting sector-specific functionalization opportunities and book chapters linking circular bioeconomy to user acceptance frameworks. Cross-cutting themes include Delphi-based technology forecasting and regional structural change modeling through interdisciplinary collaboration. No scientific awards were documented in the source materials. Freyer leads the "Bioökonomie Verstehen.Verbinden.Unterstützen." consortium project (Model Region Bioeconomy Rhenish Revier), encompassing initiatives like Bio4MatPro and Innovationscluster BioökonomieREVIER. As Sustainable Innovation Lab member and "Blickpunkt Bioökonomie" journal editor, his work is funded through federal/state bioeconomy transition grants targeting the Rhenish structural change. Embedded within TIM's interdisciplinary team of 30+ PhD researchers, he operates in the TIME Research Area ecosystem where innovation management converges with marketing and entrepreneurship. His current projects emphasize virtual-space creativity applications and bioeconomic value chain development for industrial transformation.

Piyush KhairnarView profile

Assistant Professor

• Advanced Composite Materials
• Tall Building Design
• Structural Analysis
• +4 more

Dr. Piyush Khairnar serves as an Assistant Professor at Texas Tech University's Huckabee College of Architecture, specializing in the integration of advanced materials and computational methodologies for structural innovation in tall buildings. His work bridges architectural design and structural engineering through data-driven simulation frameworks. His academic credentials include: Ph.D. in Architecture from Illinois Institute of Technology (dissertation: Efficiency of Carbon Fiber Composite Structural Systems for Tall Buildings ) Master of Architecture from Illinois Institute of Technology Bachelor of Architecture from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology Khairnar's research pioneers the application of carbon fiber composites and circular design principles in high-rise construction, utilizing parametric tools for finite element analysis to optimize structural efficiency. His current focus examines bio-based composites' viability through regenerative design frameworks, addressing sustainability gaps in material lifecycles while maintaining structural integrity for skyscrapers. This work positions him at the forefront of sustainable tall building innovation. His publication trajectory (2022-2023) reveals a concentrated exploration of material efficiency in vertical construction, progressing from simulation frameworks to circular economy applications. Key themes include computational optimization of composite systems, lightweight structural solutions, and sustainability metrics for next-generation skyscrapers—demonstrating consistent methodological rigor in merging architectural vision with engineering precision. Dr. Khairnar has not been documented as receiving scientific awards in the provided materials. Prior to academia, he accumulated significant industry experience as an AEC professional on large-scale institutional, residential, and infrastructure projects—providing practical grounding for his research. No current student advising or grant activities are specified in the source text. He operates within the Huckabee College of Architecture's research ecosystem, leveraging facilities like the Digital Fabrication Lab and Architecture Research & Design Center to prototype composite material applications and validate computational models through physical testing.

• Building Performance Optimization
• Sustainable Construction Materials
• Building Automation Systems
• +3 more

Prof. Dr. Jan Mehnert is a Professor specializing in building performance optimization, sustainable construction materials, and data-driven building automation systems. His research bridges the gap between theoretical design and operational performance through innovative quality management frameworks and big data analytics. Current work focuses on algorithmic toolkits for technical monitoring, eco-materials like additive manufactured earth, and carbon-neutral campus initiatives. His primary research domains include building performance verification (addressing the design-operation gap), sustainable material systems (earth-based construction and paper composites), and data-intensive building diagnostics (leveraging big data for energy efficiency). Key methodologies involve functional testing protocols, algorithmic performance monitoring, and lifecycle assessment of novel materials. Recent projects demonstrate practical applications in campus sustainability and neighborhood energy systems. Analysis of his 2017-2023 publications reveals three converging trends: (1) Integration of real-time data analytics into building commissioning processes, (2) Development of eco-material systems with validated thermal and structural properties, and (3) Creation of modular toolkits for scalable performance management. His work consistently targets the operational phase of buildings, emphasizing measurable outcomes in energy conservation, indoor environmental quality, and carbon reduction across both new construction and retrofits.

Luke HerouxView profile

Researcher

• Soft Matter
• Neutron Scattering
• Polymer Science
• +3 more

Luke Heroux serves as the Labs and Soft Matter Group Leader within the Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), where he oversees laboratory operations, sample management, and soft matter environments for neutron scattering research. He joined ORNL in 2005 as a Scientific Associate and has led the construction, commissioning, and operation of major instruments including POWGEN, CORELLI, USANS, and Bio-SANS, while driving facility improvements in sample tracking and instrumentation. His educational background includes a PhD in Material Science and Engineering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, completed in 2021. This advanced training underpins his expertise in structural analysis of soft matter systems. Dr. Heroux's research centers on electron transport mechanisms in soft matter, with specific focus on conjugated polymers, deep eutectic solvents, and microemulsion systems. His work leverages neutron scattering techniques to probe molecular-level dynamics, directly addressing challenges in energy storage materials. Recent investigations examine segmental constraints in solid-state batteries and binding interactions in electrode slurries, revealing critical structure-property relationships. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2011-2023) shows a dominant focus on battery materials (73% of works), particularly silicon anodes and polymer electrolytes, with neutron scattering as the primary characterization method (60% of studies). Key trends include mechanistic studies of slurry processing dynamics, morphology control in conductive polymers, and instrument development for advanced material characterization. No scientific awards were documented in the source materials. Information regarding student advising or grant funding was not provided in the available texts. As Group Leader, Heroux directs the Labs and Soft Matter team responsible for maintaining specialized sample environments and operational safety protocols. His group supports neutron scattering experiments through instrument development (notably Bio-SANS for biological materials) and facility upgrades, enabling cutting-edge research in soft matter physics and energy materials at one of the world's premier neutron science facilities.

• Corrosion
• Materials Science
• Surface Engineering
• +3 more

Charafeddine JAMA is a Professor at Centrale Lille Institute and researcher at the University of Lille's Materials and Transformations Unit (UMET, CNRS UMR 8207), affiliated with the National School of Chemistry of Lille. He leads research within the Recycling and Functionalization Processes (PReF) team, focusing on corrosion science, biomaterials, and sustainable energy solutions. His primary research encompasses: Corrosion inhibition of steel in acidic media using natural/synthetic compounds (quinazoline, imidazole, plant extracts) Development of anti-biofilm surfaces for medical/food industry applications via plasma treatments Recycling processes for invasive seaweed (Sargassum muticum) into environmental adsorbents Phase change materials (PCMs) for energy-efficient building envelopes and photovoltaic systems Cold plasma technologies for surface functionalization and corrosion barrier coatings Recent publications (2023-2025) reveal strong trends in green corrosion inhibitors (e.g., Citrullus colocynthis extract, pyrimidine-pyrazole derivatives), PCM integration for climate-specific energy savings, and electrocatalysts for hydrogen energy. Jama has co-supervised 14 theses on hydrogen diffusion in steel, biochar remediation, and antimicrobial coatings, collaborating extensively with Moroccan institutions (e.g., Fouad Bentiss at University of Oujda). His patented work (2011-2012) on plasma-treated fireproof articles and intumescent coatings demonstrates applied innovation, while plenary lectures at Moroccan conferences (RNE'10, 2019; Saidia Materials Conference, 2018) highlight his expertise in corrosion protection technologies.

• Cyber-Physical Systems
• Structural Engineering
• Seismic Retrofitting
• +5 more

Dr. Anca Ciupala is a Reader at the University of East London, affiliated with the Architecture, Computing & Engineering research institute. Her work bridges structural engineering, sustainable construction, and cyber-physical systems. Key research areas include seismic retrofitting with advanced composites (e.g., FRP), smart building software architectures, and green infrastructure design. She leads interdisciplinary projects on materials science (e.g., hemp-based insulations) and hygrothermal performance of building systems. Her research outputs span over 20 years, addressing challenges in large-scale cyber-physical systems, sensor fault detection, and sustainable building technologies. Notable contributions include full-scale shaking table tests for earthquake-resistant structures and studies on eco-mimetic green roof systems. Dr. Ciupala collaborates internationally, publishing in journals like Computer Networks , Information Systems , and Building and Environment . Her work on open-source software for smart buildings and anomaly detection systems (e.g., HADES) highlights her expertise in integrating engineering with computational solutions. Recent efforts focus on data quality in CPS and moisture dynamics in construction materials. No formal advisees are listed, but she has co-authored numerous collaborative studies with industry and academic partners.

Giorgio ValentiniView profile

Professor

• Artificial Intelligence
• Bioinformatics
• Machine Learning
• +5 more

Giorgio Valentini is a Full Professor at the Department of Computer Science, University of Milan, and a member of the UNIMI Doctoral School of Informatics. He leads the AnacletoLAB research group, focusing on developing AI methods for bio-medical applications, including genomics, bioinformatics, and computational biology. His work bridges machine learning, network analysis, and big data techniques to address challenges in healthcare and biomedicine. Education: Master Degree in Biology and Computer Science PhD in Computer Science (University of Genoa) Research Interests: Valentini's research emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to biomedical problems, particularly: Development of imbalance-aware machine learning models for rare variant prediction Network-based gene prioritization and protein function prediction Integration of multi-omics data for disease modeling Applications of graph neural networks and knowledge graphs in healthcare Explainable AI for clinical decision support Awards & Recognition: In 2018, his work on predicting human gene-phenotype associations was honored as one of the best journal articles by the International Medical Informatics Association. He serves on the Editorial Board of Scientific Reports (Nature) . Grants & Collaborations: Principal Investigator of 10+ projects funded by national/international agencies, including collaborations with the European Union’s Joint Research Center, Berlin Institute of Health, and Jackson Lab. His work addresses challenges in rare diseases, cancer genomics, and precision medicine. Teams & Labs: Leads the AnacletoLAB, which develops tools like UNIPred-Web for biomolecular network analysis and RANKS for node classification. The lab emphasizes open-source software and reproducible research.

• Geotechnical Engineering
• Soil Stabilization
• Climate Change Impact on Infrastructure
• +3 more

Dr. Rajibul Karim is a Senior Lecturer at UniSA STEM , University of South Australia, specializing in geotechnical engineering and climate-resilient infrastructure. His work focuses on soil stabilization techniques, bio-cementation (MICP/EICP), and sustainable construction practices. Research Focus: Geotechnical engineering, climate change adaptation, bio-cementation, recycled materials, particle morphology analysis. Recent Trends: 2024 articles address bio-cementation efficiency, climate-driven soil behavior modeling, and computational methods for granular material analysis. Grants: Collaborated on projects funded by the Australian Government Research Training Program , Concrete Masonry Association Australia , and Integrated Waste Services (IWS) . Collaborative Networks: Regularly works with researchers like Md Mizanur Rahman, Hoang Bao Khoi Nguyen, and Simon Beecham. Key Contributions: Developed numerical models for post-tensioned retaining walls, evaluated bio-cementation under cyclic loading, and pioneered enzyme powder stabilization techniques for expansive soils.

• Robotics
• Ethics
• Machine Learning
• +6 more

Dr Matthew Studley is a Professor in Ethics and Technology at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), affiliated with the School of Engineering and Department of Engineering, Design and Mathematics. He serves as Director of Research and Enterprise in the School of Engineering and Co-Director of the Bristol Robotics Laboratory. His expertise spans robotics, ethics, machine learning, and sustainable technology development. PhD in Computer Science MSc in Artificial Intelligence BSc (Hons) in Computer Systems His research focuses on robotics ethics , sustainable design , and machine learning optimization . Current work explores robot repurposing for circular economy , human-robot interaction dynamics , and adaptive learning systems , with particular emphasis on ethical AI deployment in industrial and domestic contexts. Recent publications highlight his pioneering work in robot sustainability , ethical design frameworks , and reinforcement learning architectures . Key trends show integration of environmental responsibility with technical innovation across robotics applications. As Co-Director of the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, Studley leads initiatives in collaborative robotics , smart city integration , and ethical AI development , while also contributing to public engagement through projects like the 'Heart Robot' and hybrid puppet demonstrations.

Wolfgang W BauerView profile

Professor

• Renewable energies
• Global warming
• Advanced vehicle battery design
• +7 more

Wolfgang W. Bauer is a University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Michigan State University, where he has been a faculty member since 1988. He served as Chair of the Department from 2001-2013 and as Founding Director of the Institute for Cyber-Enabled Research from 2009-2013. More recently, he has held administrative positions including Senior Consultant (2013-2018) and Associate Vice President for Administration (2018-2021), focusing on MSU's Energy Transition Plan and sustainability initiatives. Dr. Bauer received his Vordiplom (B.S. equivalent) in 1981, Diplom (M.S. equivalent) in 1985, and Ph.D. in 1987, all from the University of Giessen in Germany. Following a postdoctoral fellowship at Caltech (1987-1988), he joined Michigan State University as an Assistant Professor of Physics. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 1993, Professor in 1996, and University Distinguished Professor in 2007. His research spans multiple domains, with early work focused on nuclear physics including heavy ion collisions, nuclear transport theory, and phase transitions in nuclear systems. More recently, his research has shifted toward renewable energy, global warming, advanced vehicle battery design, and physics education research with applications of AI. His work on MSU's Energy Transition Plan has led to significant campus sustainability achievements including the termination of coal firing, construction of solar arrays, and implementation of energy conservation measures. Analysis of his recent publications shows a clear transition from theoretical nuclear physics to energy sustainability and educational technology. His most recent work focuses on renewable energy systems, greenhouse gas analysis, and computational approaches to energy problems, while maintaining connections to his physics background through computational modeling techniques. National Science Foundation Presidential Faculty Fellow Award (1992) Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation Distinguished Senior U.S. Scientist Award (1999) ComputerWorld 21st Century Achievement Award for Education and Academia (2003) Fellow of the American Physical Society (2003) University Distinguished Professor (2007) American Physical Society Outstanding Referee (2012) Dr. Thomas H. Osgood Memorial Award for Excellence in Teaching (2025) As a leader in educational technology, Dr. Bauer co-developed the LON-CAPA learning management system and has authored multiple physics textbooks, including the widely used "University Physics" series with Gary Westfall. His work on MSU's Energy Transition Plan has resulted in concrete achievements including the anaerobic digester, solar carport array, and central data center consolidation, reducing MSU's carbon footprint by hundreds of thousands of metric tons of CO 2 annually. Dr. Bauer has led several major initiatives including the Institute for Cyber-Enabled Research and the Campus Sustainability Office. His work bridges theoretical physics, computational science, and practical energy solutions, creating interdisciplinary teams that connect academic research with real-world applications in energy sustainability.

Sami AloulouView profile

Lecturer

• Urban Design
• Housing
• Construction Methods
• +4 more

Sami Aloulou serves as a Lecturer at the School of Architecture, PSL University (National School of Architecture of Paris-Malaquais), within the Department AAP. His academic role integrates with professional practice through the architectural agency SEPTEMBER, focusing on contemporary urban challenges and spatial innovation. Educational background: Architect DE, ENSA Paris-La Villette, Paris (2007) His research examines housing, urban strategies, and construction methods through holistic spatial approaches that transcend scale divisions. Key interests include emerging metropolitan lifestyles, bio-sourced materials, and sustainable building techniques, with emphasis on shared urban spaces like communal kitchens in residential developments. This work bridges theoretical research with practical design applications in mixed-use environments. Scientific recognition: Winner of FAIRE 2021 program (Pavillon de l'Arsenal and City of Paris) for research project 'FAIRE et CUISINER' on shared urban kitchens No information available regarding student advising or research grants. As part of SEPTEMBER agency, Aloulou contributes to experimental projects in urban strategies and bio-sourced construction, fostering direct connections between academic research and architectural practice through initiatives like prospective studies on emerging metropolitan uses and new living models.

• Timber Engineering
• Bio-based Composite Materials
• Non-destructive Testing Technology
• +4 more

Dr Ahmed Mohamed is a Lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University's School of Computing, Engineering, and the Built Environment, where he has built his academic career since joining as a PhD student in 2010. He currently serves as program leader for the global online MSc Construction Project Management and teaches mathematics and civil engineering subjects at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. His research focuses on innovative applications of photogrammetric and stereo vision techniques for evaluating material properties in timber and composite structures. Key areas include timber engineering, bio-based composite materials in construction, non-destructive test technology, and development of high strength green concrete. His work demonstrates consistent methodological innovation in structural testing, particularly using optical systems to measure torsional behavior and shear modulus in timber beams. Analysis of his publication record reveals a strong thematic concentration on photogrammetric approaches to structural testing, with particular emphasis on torsion testing methodologies for timber and composite materials. His research shows progression from fundamental measurement techniques to practical applications in construction materials, with increasing complexity in experimental setups and analysis methods over time. Member of Editorial Board for Engineering Future Sustainability Keynote speaker at International Forum on Infrastructure and Civil Engineering (ICEFORUM2023) Participant in BE-ST Fest 2022 'Festival of the zero carbon built environment' Demonstrated Bamboo-Timber composite Gridshell Structure at COP 26 Dr Mohamed has successfully secured research funding from multiple prestigious sources including the Royal Academy of Engineering, British Council, Scottish Funding Council, and Energy Technology Partnership. His current PhD students include Kyaw Saw (researching high strength concrete for green buildings) and Shen Minhe (developing bamboo-timber composite beams). He previously completed his own PhD on photogrammetric and stereo vision techniques for evaluating material properties in timber structures between 2010-2016. His research projects demonstrate practical applications of his expertise, including work on prestressed bamboo-timber composites, monitoring timber expansion for Jacket Pile Gripper applications, and computational fluid dynamics modeling for spill-proof coffee cup design. These projects reflect his ability to bridge fundamental research with industry applications in sustainable construction.

• Industrialized Timber Construction
• Offsite Construction
• Sustainable Built Environment
• +5 more

Professor Robert Hairstans is a leading academic at Edinburgh Napier University and founding Director of the Centre for Advanced Timber Technology (CATT) at NMITE. He chairs the UK Government Timber in Construction Policy Roadmap Implementation Board and contributes to the Scottish Construction Leadership Forum. His career spans pioneering research in industrialized timber and offsite construction, with global recognition through awards and collaborations. Key roles include: Director of COCIS research group, Skills & EDI lead for Cen NZ High DB, Trimble Technology Lab establishment 2024 awards: Structural Timber Pioneer of the Year, Offsite Construction Pioneer of the Year Research themes: Mass timber systems, carbon reduction, digital construction, sustainable supply chains His 15 most recent publications focus on timber engineering, retrofit strategies, and sustainable construction technologies. Awards include BE-ST Beacon (2023) and Queen’s Anniversary Prize (2015). He supervises PhD/MSc projects on topics like CLT composites, emotional intelligence in construction, and factory modeling. Current initiatives involve UK timber commercialization and international knowledge exchange.