Jari Puttonen is a Professor of Structural Engineering at Aalto University's Department of Civil Engineering, School of Engineering. His research focuses on structural analysis, fire safety, materials science, and nuclear infrastructure safety. He has held roles as Principal Investigator in projects related to nuclear waste repository concrete modeling and aging management of NPP infrastructure. He has advised over 20 academic visitors and served in doctoral thesis committees. Education: Doctoral degree (1987), Licentiate (1984), and Master's degree (1979) in Engineering and Technology from Helsinki University of Technology (now part of Aalto University). Research Interests: Steel and composite materials behavior under extreme conditions Fire resistance of structural systems Long-term performance of concrete in nuclear facilities Non-destructive testing of construction materials Seismic resilience of critical infrastructure Awards: Recipient of the Knight, First Class of the Order of the White Rose of Finland (2020), PUUPalkinto 2010, and Schweighofer Prize 2011 for innovative energy facade research. Grants & Projects: Led 13 research projects including PERCO2_2023 (nuclear waste repository modeling) and CONAGE2022 (NPP concrete aging). Active in EU-funded initiatives and industry collaborations. Labs & Teams: Core member of Aalto's Structural Engineering Research Group, collaborating with Chalmers University and Technical University of Munich on advanced materials testing.
Professor João Quinta da Fonseca is a Professor of Mechanical Metallurgy in the Department of Materials at The University of Manchester. He leads the LightForm project, a multidisciplinary initiative supported by the EPSRC, and is affiliated with the Materials Performance Centre and Dalton Nuclear Institute. His research focuses on microstructural-scale metal deformation mechanics, crystal plasticity modeling, and in-situ characterization using synchrotron/neutron diffraction. He chairs the IOM3 Advanced Metal Forming Committee and collaborates with industries like Rolls-Royce and Airbus. Education: PhD in Mechanical Behavior of High Volume Fraction MMCs from the University of Leeds. Academic Line Manager in the Department of Materials and EDI committee member. Research Interests: Experimental mechanics, texture analysis, phase transformations, and computational modeling. Pioneered HRDIC for sub-micron deformation measurement. Key applications include aerospace and energy sectors. Grants & Projects: Active grants include Rotational Vibration Assisted Increment Sheet Forming (EPSRC-funded) and collaborations on jet engine materials. Over 150 publications and datasets on magnesium alloys, titanium, and superalloys. Labs/Teams: Leads the Mechanical Metallurgy group, part of the Centre for Light Alloy Research and Innovation (CLARI).
Dr. Mani Khezri is a Lecturer in the School of Civil Engineering at The University of Sydney since 2014, specializing in structural mechanics and innovative numerical methods. His research focuses on cold-formed steel structures, buckling behavior of plates and laminated assemblies, and functionalizing buckling for structural morphing. He holds a Ph.D. in Structural Engineering from UNSW, an M.Sc. from SUT, and a B.Sc. from IUT. Key research areas include extending cold-formed steel applications to mid-rise structures through built-up sections, analyzing buckling and post-buckling behaviors, and leveraging buckling for smart technologies like kinetic façades. He collaborates with industry to develop affordable, prefabricated structures and sustainable materials through additive manufacturing. His work bridges theoretical analysis (e.g., meshfree methods) with practical applications, such as optimizing ventilation systems via buckling-induced airflow control. He leads grants like 'Solid-State Additive Manufacturing For Recycled Aluminium Alloys' and 'Complete limit state analysis of steel structural framework.' Students include Pouya AFSHAR IMANI (additive manufacturing), Cynthia LIU (built-up columns), Emad TAYARANINAJJARAN (floor systems), and Ruilin ZHANG (serviceability analysis). His lab, the Centre for Advanced Structural Engineering, explores advanced structural systems and computational mechanics.
Dr. Matthew Whelan is an Associate Professor and EPIC Assistant Director of Research for Energy Infrastructure at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He is affiliated with the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and specializes in structural health monitoring, sensing technologies, and infrastructure resilience under dynamic loads. Current roles: Associate Professor, EPIC Assistant Director of Research for Energy Infrastructure Department: Civil and Environmental Engineering Research Interests: Dr. Whelan focuses on full-scale structural testing, ambient vibration monitoring, and the application of wireless sensor networks for bridge and building diagnostics. His work addresses deterioration modeling, blast and impact load responses, and digital twin integration for infrastructure management. Key Trends: Recent publications highlight advancements in concrete constitutive modeling, blast testing of cold-formed steel systems, and digital twins for construction quality monitoring. His work bridges computational simulations (e.g., LS-DYNA) with experimental validation using high-rate wireless sensors. Professional Background: He obtained all his degrees (B.S., M.S., Ph.D.) in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Clarkson University and has been a faculty member at UNC Charlotte since 2010. Dr. Whelan is a licensed Professional Engineer.
Sándor Ádány is a Professor at the Department of Structural Mechanics , Budapest University of Technology and Economics. His work focuses on advanced structural analysis of thin-walled members and systems-based design methodologies. Research Interests: Specializes in buckling behavior of thin-walled structures, finite element modeling, cold-formed steel stability, and modal decomposition techniques. Key areas include Lateral-torsional buckling Displacement mapping in constrained FEM Stiffener optimization in plate structures Combined loading stability of tubular members Prebuckling deformation effects Fourier-based numerical methods Article Trends (2023-2025): Recent publications emphasize elastic stability analysis of thin-walled beams and tubular structures under complex loading conditions, with particular attention to prebuckling deflections, torsional rigidity effects, and numerical validation of analytical models. Innovations include Fourier-series displacement approximations and constrained finite element methodologies.
Giulio Marchese is an Associate Professor at the Department of Applied Science and Technology (DISAT) within the Polytechnic University of Turin. He is a member of the Interdepartmental Center IAM@PoliTo - Integrated Additive Manufacturing and actively contributes to the School of Industrial and Information Engineering. His research focuses on advanced additive manufacturing techniques for metallic materials, including electron beam powder bed fusion (EB-PBF) and laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), with applications in aerospace, automotive, and biomedical fields. Research Interests: Giulio's work spans additive manufacturing, materials engineering, advanced metallic materials, and production technology. He explores novel alloys like TiAl and Ni-based superalloys, optimizes process parameters, and investigates post-processing treatments such as hot isostatic pressing (HIP) and heat treatments to enhance mechanical properties. Publications: His recent articles highlight trends in metal additive manufacturing, including microstructure analysis of EB-PBF molybdenum, TiC composites, CuCrZr alloys, and process optimization for aerospace-grade materials. His studies often address residual stress, thermal exposure effects, and interface characterization. Advising & Collaborations: Giulio supervises PhD students in Materials Science and Technology, including Samuele Di Sturco, Serena Lerda, Hanieh Bakhshifarkoush, and Cristian Ghibaudo. He collaborates with research groups like Additive Manufacturing (DISAT), Metallic Materials (DISAT), and High-Temperature Materials (DISAT), and contributes to courses across Materials Engineering, Aerospace, and Automotive programs.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Süleyman KILIÇ is a faculty member at Ahi Evran University , where he serves in the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture , Department of Mechanical Engineering . He holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering (2016) and an MSc (2009) from Niğde University, and a BSc (2006) from Kırıkkale University. Research Interests: Manufacturing Technologies Material Design and Behavior Finite Element Analysis Friction Stir Welding Advanced High-Strength Steels Springback Behavior Article Trends: Recent publications focus on friction stir welding of aluminum alloys, springback analysis in sheet metal forming, yield criteria modeling (Barlat89, Hill48), and temperature/strain rate effects on material properties. His work combines experimental testing with numerical simulations for automotive and aerospace applications. Scientific Awards: Best Presentation Award at 2nd International Mediterranean Science and Engineering Congress (2017) Advising: Supervised 4 Master's theses (2023-2024) on topics like agricultural tire technologies, friction stir welding, and springback optimization. Collaborated extensively with researchers on material testing and forming limit diagrams.
Dr Gatheeshgar Perampalam is a Senior Lecturer in Civil Engineering at Teesside University's School of Computing, Engineering and Digital Technologies. He holds a PhD in Structural Engineering (2021) from Northumbria University and a BEng (Hons) in Civil Engineering (2017) from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. His research focuses on advanced structural analysis of cold-formed steel systems, modular construction optimization, and fire/thermal performance of building materials. PhD: Structural Engineering, Northumbria University (2021) BEng: Civil Engineering (First Class), University of Peradeniya (2017) Key research areas include steel structures, numerical modeling, sustainable construction practices, and energy-efficient building designs. His recent work explores machine learning applications in structural performance prediction and thermal efficiency improvements in light-gauge steel panels. He has contributed 68 research outputs and collaborated with industry partners like Intelligent Steel Solutions. Current affiliations include Teesside University and active participation in research networks related to structural engineering and sustainability.
Dr. Khaled Sennah is a Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Toronto Metropolitan University, specializing in bridge design, advanced composite materials, and structural dynamics. He holds academic ranks including Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE) and Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC). His research focuses on sustainable infrastructure solutions, particularly using fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRP) in bridge barriers and ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). Educated at Alexandria University (BSc, 1985; MASc, 1990) and the University of Windsor (PhD, 1998), Sennah has collaborated extensively with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, pioneering corrosion-resistant GFRP-reinforced concrete barriers. His team’s work led to the development of standardized safety barriers widely adopted in Canada. His research interests span bridge design and rehabilitation, structural dynamics, and sustainable materials. Notable contributions include the design of a crash-tested TL-5 barrier and advancements in UHPC and FRP composites. He chairs international bridge conferences and contributes to Canadian highway bridge design codes (CSA S6). Labs/Groups: Structural Lab and Advanced Sustainable Construction Materials Lab Professional Roles: Associate Editor of the Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering; member of CSA S6 subcommittees on barriers, FRP concrete, and design codes. Recipient of prestigious awards including the IAAM Scientist Medal (2023), TFA Career Achievement Award (2023), and the A.B. Sanderson Award (2013). His work bridges academia and industry, emphasizing practical applications of innovative materials.
Dr. Brian Bay is an Associate Professor in the School of Mechanical, Industrial, and Manufacturing Engineering at Oregon State University, where he has been a faculty member since 2000. His research centers on developing and applying image-based metrology techniques to solve complex problems in materials science and biomechanics. Education: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Davis (1992) M.S. in Mechanical Engineering/Material Science, University of California, Davis (1987) B.S. in Mechanical Engineering/Material Science, University of California, Davis (1984) Dr. Bay's primary research involves Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and Digital Volume Correlation (DVC) methodologies. His work spans biomaterials, orthopedic biomechanics, lithium batteries, wood products, geomaterials, and advanced manufacturing. Current projects focus on orthopedic clinical problems like osteoarthritis and spinal disc degeneration using synchrotron x-ray tomography, and advancing image correlation for additive manufacturing processes such as Selective Laser Melting (SLM) of metal powders. His research group collaborates with international partners including University College London and Diamond Light Source. Analysis of Dr. Bay's recent publications (2018-2025) reveals a strong emphasis on spinal biomechanics and additive manufacturing. His work consistently integrates synchrotron imaging with correlation techniques to study tissue and material deformation at microstructural levels, with growing applications in metal additive manufacturing quality control. Scientific Awards: Hetényi Award from the Society for Experimental Mechanics (2001) for pioneering Digital Volume Correlation Founders Award from the International Digital Image Correlation Society (2016) Dr. Bay has secured significant funding from the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, Oregon State government, and industry partners. He serves on the Board of Directors of the International Digital Image Correlation Society and maintains active collaborations with UK research institutions. His work bridges fundamental methodology development with practical applications in healthcare and manufacturing. Dr. Bay leads the Next-Generation Materials & Devices research group, utilizing advanced facilities including synchrotron light sources at Diamond Light Source and STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. His lab specializes in in situ mechanical testing combined with high-resolution imaging to study deformation mechanisms in biological tissues and engineered materials.
Professor Ali Tolga Bozdana is a faculty member at Gaziantep University, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering. He has served as Professor since 2022, following positions as Associate Professor (2017-2022), Doctor Lecturer (2008-2017), and Research Assistant (2006-2008) at the same institution. His academic career also includes research assistant positions at the University of Nottingham (2001-2006) and Gaziantep University (1997-2001). Professor Bozdana earned his Doctorate from the University of Nottingham (2001-2006), Master's degree from Gaziantep University (1997-1999), and Bachelor's degree from Gaziantep University (1992-1997), all in Mechanical Engineering. He has also served as Dean Assistant (2018-present) and Department Vice Chair (2010-2013) at Gaziantep University. His research focuses on advanced manufacturing processes, particularly deep drawing technologies, electrical discharge machining, and servo press systems. Professor Bozdana has made significant contributions to ultrasonic-assisted manufacturing processes, developing novel techniques to improve forming quality and efficiency. His work bridges theoretical modeling with practical applications in aerospace and industrial manufacturing, with particular emphasis on precision manufacturing technologies for difficult-to-machine materials. Professor Bozdana's publication record shows consistent focus on precision manufacturing technologies, with recent work emphasizing ultrasonic-assisted deep drawing, servo press applications, and advanced electrical discharge machining techniques. His research demonstrates progression from fundamental process understanding to innovative system design and implementation, with strong emphasis on both numerical simulation and experimental validation. Kamu Yayın Teşvik Ödülü (TÜBİTAK) in 2018 (twice), 2017, 2016, and 2014 En İyi Sanayi İşbirliği Bildirisi Ödülü Finalisti (2015) Emerald Literati Network Awards for Excellence (2005) Türk Plastik Sanayicileri Araştırma, Geliştirme ve Eğitim Vakfı (PAGEV) Mansiyon Ödülü (2005) PhD Studentship Bursary from Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (2001) Public Overseas Research Scholarship (2001) Professor Bozdana has supervised numerous graduate students including PhD candidates Sadik Olguner, Abdullah Gazi Firat, and Nazar Kais Al Karkhi. He has led significant research projects including a TÜBİTAK 3001 project on 'Servo Krank Pres ile Ultrasonik Destekli Derin Çekme İşlemi' (2016-2018) and a TÜBİTAK 1001 project on electrical discharge drilling of aerospace alloys (2008-2010). His work has resulted in a national patent for an ultrasonic-assisted deep drawing system. Professor Bozdana's laboratory work focuses on advanced manufacturing systems, particularly servo press technology and ultrasonic-assisted manufacturing processes. His team has developed experimental setups for implementing ultrasonic vibrations in deep drawing processes and created novel die systems for improved manufacturing quality. His research group maintains strong industry connections, particularly in aerospace manufacturing applications.
Mustafa Batikha is an Assistant Professor at Heriot-Watt University's School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society. His roles include Associate Director of Research (2016–2024) and Founding Editor of the Centre of Excellence in Smart and Sustainable Construction (CES2C) Research Bulletin (2019–2023). He holds a PhD in Structural Engineering from the University of Edinburgh and has been a full-time academic at Damascus University (1994–2015), where he also served as Director of the Steel Structures Division (2012–2014). His research focuses on non-linear structural analysis, sustainable construction materials, 3D concrete printing, and rehabilitation of structures. Notable areas include waste management in the cement industry, recycled materials in concrete, and seismic-resistant design. He has authored over 40 publications and led projects on topics like outrigger systems in tall buildings and PET bottle fibers in concrete. Batikha is a chartered member of the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and a member of the International Institute for FRP in Construction (IIFC). His consultancy work spans structural design and rehabilitation across multiple countries. He has also contributed to national training programs in Syria and served on editorial boards for journals like Materials . His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in sustainable cities (Goal 11) and responsible consumption (Goal 12). Key grants include studies on decarbonization of the UAE cement industry and cost-efficiency in tall building design.
Benjamin W. Schafer is the Willard and Lillian Hackerman Professor of Civil and Systems Engineering at Johns Hopkins University, where he also serves as Director of the Ralph O'Connor Sustainable Energy Institute (ROSEI). He holds a secondary appointment in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. His leadership roles include past chair of the Department of Civil Engineering, associate director of the Academic Center for Reliability and Resilience in Offshore Wind, and director of the Cold-Formed Steel Research Consortium. Education: BSE in Civil Engineering (University of Iowa, 1993), MS and PhD in Structural Engineering (Cornell University, 1994 and 1997). Research focuses on structural stability, optimization, and resilience in steel structures, particularly cold-formed steel. His work includes developing the Direct Strength Method, seismic testing of cold-formed steel buildings, and advancing standards for steel wind turbine towers. Recent publications emphasize buckling analysis, seismic performance, composite structures, and computational modeling. He actively contributes to standards committees for ASCE, AISC, and AISI, ensuring research translates into practical building codes. Scientific Awards: Norman Medal, Shortridge Hardesty Award, Huber Research Prize, Collingwood Prize, Robert B. Pond Sr. Excellence in Teaching, Dunn Family awards. He consults for Simpson, Gumpertz & Heger Inc. and leads the development of the open-source CUFSM software for elastic buckling analysis, with extensive GitHub activity and community engagement.
Kristo Mela is an Associate Professor (tenure track) in Civil Engineering, specializing in structural components and steel structures. He holds a Doctor of Science (Technology) in Mechanical Engineering (2013) from an unspecified institution and a Master of Science (Technology) in Electrical Engineering (2006). His research focuses on joints in structural components, Eurocode compliance, cold-formed connections, and system-level approaches to steel design. Mela has contributed 74 research outputs from 2003 to 2025, emphasizing experimental investigations and reliability analyses in construction materials and systems. Key research areas include high-strength steel joints, composite beam testing, and climatic load effects on trussed structures. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to education and infrastructure. Collaborations span structural analysis methodologies and material behavior studies, with publications in journals like Journal of Constructional Steel Research and STRUCTURAL SAFETY . Mela has presented at conferences such as the Nordic Steel Construction Conference and contributed datasets to platforms like Zenodo. His academic activities include media appearances and conference presentations on topics like topology optimization and member buckling in truss design. Despite extensive research output, no student advising or specific grant details are explicitly mentioned in the provided text.
Ali Saleh is an Adjunct Associate Professor at the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering , University of Technology Sydney. With a PhD from RWTH Aachen University, he specializes in structural mechanics, finite element analysis, and cold-formed steel systems. Dr.-Ing, RWTH Aachen University (1982) Dipl.-Ing, RWTH Aachen University (1978) His research focuses on: Composite flooring systems integrating cold-formed steel and timber Seismic performance of industrial racking structures Slender high-rise building stability Advanced global-local finite element analysis Cable-stayed bridge failure modes Key trends in his 15 most recent publications include composite systems optimization (2018-2022), connection behavior in steel structures (2013-2019), and educational innovations (2008-2011). His work has been cited over 150 times, with high-impact studies on vibration behavior and shear connector performance. As a supervisor, he has guided PhD student Ahmad Firouzianhaji (2012-2015) He has held leadership roles including Deputy Head of School (2015-2017) and contributed to 14 funded industry collaborations with Dexion (Australia) Pty Ltd since 2003. His work bridges academic research with practical applications in structural engineering.
