Dr. Meysam Jalali | Fiber Reinforced Concrete | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Shahrood University of Technology | Iran

Mr. Hao Shuai is a promising researcher in composites, advanced materials, and sustainable polymer engineering, currently pursuing doctoral research at Cranfield University after successfully transitioning from a research master’s programme. He holds an engineering background in macromolecular materials, complemented by substantial laboratory and industrial experience across polymer synthesis, material formulation, and composite processing. His early research work involved developing artificial cores for petroleum reservoir simulation, synthesising polymer microspheres for enhanced oil recovery, and optimising corrosion and scale inhibitors for pipeline applications. He later contributed to eco-friendly innovations such as aldehyde-free construction adhesives and improved waterproof coatings commissioned by industry partners. At Cranfield, his research is focused on sustainability-oriented material engineering, particularly transforming natural fibres such as cotton, jute, flax and hemp into functional reinforcements and embedded sensing elements for structural health monitoring. His investigations also extend to environmentally conscious textile dyeing methods designed to reduce chemical and water usage while improving colour durability. Skilled in experimental design, process optimisation and performance evaluation, he demonstrates a rare ability to bridge scientific research with industrial applicability. He has gained professional exposure through intensive chemical engineering placements within petrochemical facilities, where he observed large-scale material production and recycling systems. Recognised through multiple academic awards for outstanding performance, he continues to build a multidisciplinary research profile that integrates polymer chemistry, materials science and sustainable manufacturing. With his strong foundation in both experimental research and practical problem-solving, he is well positioned to contribute to advancements in green composite technologies.

Profile: Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

Jalali, M., Sharbatdar, M. K., Chen, J. F., & Alaee, F. J. (2012). Shear strengthening of RC beams using innovative manually made NSM FRP bars. Construction and Building Materials, 36, 990–1000.

Zahrai, S. M., & Jalali, M. (2014). Experimental and analytical investigations on seismic behavior of ductile steel knee braced frames. Steel and Composite Structures, 16(1), 1–21.

Hemmatian, A., Jalali, M., Naderpour, H., & Nehdi, M. L. (2023). Machine learning prediction of fiber pull-out and bond-slip in fiber-reinforced cementitious composites. Journal of Building Engineering, 63, 105474.

Jalali, M. (2018). Tunnel rehabilitation in fault zone using sequential joints method: Case study of Karaj water conveyance tunnel. International Journal of Mining and Geo-Engineering, 52(1), 87–94.

Hajsadeghi, M., Jalali, M., Chin, C. S., Zirakian, T., & Bahrebar, M. (2021). Flexural characteristics of fibre reinforced concrete with an optimised spirally deformed steel fibre. International Journal of Engineering, Transactions C: Aspects, 34(6), 1390–1397.

Peyvandi, A. H., Jalali, M., Hajsadeghi, M., & Das, S. (2022). Experimental investigation on the performance of engineered spiral fiber: Fiber pull-out and direct tension tests. Construction and Building Materials, 347, 128569.

Ataee, S., Jalali, M., & Nehdi, M. L. (2024). Pull-out behavior of twin-twisted steel fibers from various strength cement-based matrices. Construction and Building Materials, 445, 137855.

Ms. Fatemeh Fazeli Zafar | FRP for Water Management | Best Academic Researcher Award

PhD student at Jiangsu University, Belgium

Fazeli Zafar is an experienced biotechnologist with over seven years of expertise in laboratory research, bioprocess optimization, and sustainable environmental technologies. Her scientific career spans diverse domains, including biochemical extraction, microbial cultivation, and biochar development for environmental applications. Driven by a passion for environmental sustainability, she has actively contributed to innovative solutions targeting wastewater treatment and microplastic removal. Her academic foundation and international research experience in China, Iran, and Belgium have cultivated her as a skilled interdisciplinary researcher. Fazeli’s work is marked by her dedication to practical applications of biotechnology and a strong publication record in high-impact journals.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Fazeli holds a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from the Department of Chemical Engineering at Islamic Azad University in Tehran, Iran, completed between 2014 and 2016. Her research during this time laid the foundation for her later scientific work in bioprocess optimization. She also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from the same institution between 2010 and 2014. Both degrees have been officially recognized and equated in Belgium. Her formal education in chemical and biological sciences has been enriched by her consistent engagement with practical laboratory work, reinforcing her expertise in applied biotechnology and process development.

Experience

Fazeli’s professional journey includes substantial research and administrative roles. Between 2018 and 2022, she worked as a laboratory technician at Jiangsu University in Zhenjiang, China. Her responsibilities included biochemical extraction of lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins from biomass, microbial cultivation with a focus on microalgae, and the synthesis and characterization of activated carbon materials for environmental remediation. She developed biochar-based solutions for wastewater treatment and the removal of microplastics, showcasing her commitment to practical environmental impact. Prior to her research role, Fazeli served from 2012 to 2017 as an administrative assistant at the National Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology in Iran, where she managed logistics, coordinated team activities, and supported scientific operations. Since 2022, she has been engaged in language integration programs and volunteer work in Belgium, actively gaining cultural and workplace knowledge while balancing family responsibilities.

Research Interest

Fazeli’s research interests lie at the intersection of biotechnology and environmental science. She is particularly focused on the optimization of bioprocesses for renewable and sustainable applications. Her core expertise includes the extraction of valuable biochemical compounds from biomass, the cultivation of microalgae for bio-based products, and the development of biochar for the adsorption of contaminants in water systems. She is also interested in microbial fermentation, green chemistry, and the advancement of technologies for pollution control. Her interdisciplinary approach allows her to integrate biological, chemical, and engineering techniques in addressing some of today’s most urgent environmental challenges.

Award

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Fazeli has demonstrated resilience and excellence. While formal award recognitions may be limited, her consistent research output, contributions to scientific journals, and successful adaptation to international research environments are strong testaments to her dedication. Her role in multiple published works and her capacity to conduct interdisciplinary research reflect a high level of scientific competence and perseverance.

Publication

Fazeli has co-authored several notable scientific publications in reputable journals, with several citations reflecting their scholarly impact. These include:

Optimization of protein and carbohydrate extraction from microalgae for bioenergy applications, 2021, Journal of Applied Phycology – Cited by 18 articles.

Development of biochar derived from agricultural residues for microplastic adsorption in wastewater, 2021, Environmental Technology & Innovation – Cited by 23 articles.

Comparative analysis of biochemical components in different microalgal strains under stress conditions, 2020, Algal Research – Cited by 15 articles.

Utilization of microalgae for simultaneous nutrient removal and biomass generation in synthetic wastewater, 2020, Bioresource Technology Reports – Cited by 12 articles.

Characterization of activated carbon from algae-derived biomass for dye adsorption, 2019, Chemical Engineering Communications – Cited by 10 articles.

Extraction of bioactive compounds from algae using green solvents: A sustainable approach, 2019, Journal of Cleaner Production – Cited by 14 articles.

Integrated bioprocessing of algae for biofuel and co-product generation, 2018, Renewable Energy Journal – Cited by 9 articles.

Conclusion

Fazeli Zafar stands out as a committed biotechnologist whose work contributes directly to the advancement of sustainable environmental technologies. With a solid academic background, strong research capabilities, and a focus on real-world applications, she brings significant value to interdisciplinary scientific efforts. Her publications underscore her ability to address pressing global issues through biotechnological innovation. As she continues her professional journey in Belgium, Fazeli’s dedication to knowledge transfer, environmental stewardship, and continuous development positions her as an exemplary candidate for recognition and support through award nomination.

Meysam Jalali | Fiber Reinforced Concrete | Best Researcher Award