Belkacem Bekhiti | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Belkacem Bekhiti | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Belkacem Bekhiti | Institute of Aeronautics and Space Studies, University of Blida | Algeria

Dr. Bekhiti Belkacem is a distinguished academic and researcher in control theory, robotics, and aerospace engineering, currently serving as a Lecturer at the Institute of Aeronautics and Space Studies, Blida University 1, Algeria. His expertise spans guidance, navigation, and control systems, integrating theoretical modeling with real-world aerospace applications. He holds a Doctorate in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Automatic Control from the University of Boumerdes, a Magister in Advanced Control of Complex Systems from the National Polytechnic School, Oran, a Master’s in Automatic Control from the University of Djelfa, and an Engineering degree in Electrical Engineering from Boumerdes. His career includes teaching positions at Blida and Djelfa Universities, collaboration with the Algerian Air Agency, and supervision of advanced student projects in UAVs, satellite control, and robotics. His research focuses on MIMO control, matrix polynomial theory, robotic modeling, nonlinear adaptive control, and intelligent aerospace system design, merging classical automation with artificial intelligence and fractional-order control. He has authored several books and numerous international publications, presented his work at major conferences, and earned recognition for his contributions to intelligent control and aerospace systems. His influence extends across the Algerian and international research communities, where he continues to inspire innovation and academic excellence in modern control and aeronautical engineering.

Profile : Google Scholar 

Featured Publications 

  • Bekhiti, B. (2015). On the theory of λ-matrices based MIMO control system design. Control and Cybernetics.

  • Bekhiti, B. (2017). Intelligent block spectral factors relocation in a quadrotor UAV. International Journal of Scientific Computing (IJSCC).

  • Bekhiti, B. (2018). On λ-matrices and their applications in MIMO control systems design. International Journal of Mathematical and Computational Intelligence (IJMIC).

  • Bekhiti, B. (2020). On the block decomposition and spectral factors of λ-matrices. Control and Cybernetics.

  • Bekhiti, B. (2020). Internal stability improvement of a natural gas centrifugal compressor. Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering.

Jingyi Gao | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Jingyi Gao | University of Virginia | United States

Ms. Jingyi Gao | University of Virginia | United States

Jingyi Gao is a Ph.D. candidate in Systems and Information Engineering at the University of Virginia with a 3.75 GPA, focusing on time series prediction, Bayesian probabilistic modeling, and federated learning. She holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and Statistics from the Johns Hopkins University (GPA 3.9) and dual bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics–Computer Science and Economics from the University of California, San Diego. Jingyi has extensive teaching experience, serving as a teaching assistant at UVA where she has instructed over 1,000 students across multiple courses in statistical modeling, data mining, AI, and big data systems, and previously supported courses at Johns Hopkins and UC San Diego. She has mentored underrepresented students through the Data Justice Academy and completed research internships at the University of Pittsburgh and Tencent, developing machine learning models for stress detection, healthcare data analysis, and cloud resource forecasting. Jingyi has authored several publications, including work accepted by Pattern Recognition and under review at AAAI and IISE Transactions. Her recent projects involve designing deep latent variable models for ergonomic risk assessment, developing real-time adaptive prediction frameworks for occupational health monitoring, creating federated learning approaches for multi-output Gaussian processes, and modeling behavioral regularity and predictability from multidimensional sensing signals. Combining expertise in machine learning, statistical modeling, and data-driven decision systems, Jingyi aims to advance human-centered intelligent systems through interpretable and privacy-preserving predictive modeling.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications 

Gao, J., Rahman, A., Lim, S., & Chung, S. TimeSets: A real-time adaptive prediction framework for multivariate time series (Manuscript under review at the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence).

Gao, J., Lim, S., & Chung, S. Gait-based hand load estimation via deep latent variable models with auxiliary information (Manuscript under review at IISE Transactions).

Gao, J., & Chung, S. Federated automatic latent variable selection in multi-output Gaussian processes (Accepted for publication in Pattern Recognition)*.

Gao, J., Yan, R., & Doryab, A. Modeling regularity and predictability in human behavior from multidimensional sensing signals and personal characteristics. Proceedings of the International Conference on Machine Learning and Applications (ICMLA). Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

Chen, T., Chen, Y., Gao, J., Gao, P., Moon, J. H., Ren, J., … & Woolf, T. B. Machine learning to summarize and provide context for sleep and eating schedules. bioRxiv.

Nan Li | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nan Li | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Associate researcher at erospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Dr. Nan Li is an accomplished Associate Researcher at the State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences. With a strong interdisciplinary foundation in biomedical engineering and automation, she specializes in developing microfluidic-based nucleic acid and immunoassay detection systems. Dr. Li has contributed significantly to the advancement of rapid, portable, and sensitive diagnostic technologies, many of which are aimed at point-of-care and field diagnostics for infectious diseases. Her work is deeply rooted in translational research, seamlessly integrating microengineering, biotechnology, and clinical diagnostics.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Nan Li received her Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the prestigious Tsinghua University in 2022, after completing her undergraduate degree in Automation from the Beijing Institute of Technology in 2016. During her doctoral studies, she focused on the development of centrifugal microfluidic platforms and integrated biosensing systems, gaining critical experience in both academic research and real-world biomedical applications. Her academic journey laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to creating impactful diagnostic tools for global healthcare needs.

💼 Experience

Dr. Li currently serves as an Associate Researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where she leads projects under the State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology. She has also been actively involved in collaborative efforts with academic and industrial partners to translate laboratory innovations into commercial and clinical applications. In addition to her research responsibilities, Dr. Li contributes to scholarly activities as a journal reviewer for Microsystems & Nanoengineering and Current Analytical Chemistry. She has also delivered oral presentations at prominent international conferences such as Transducers 2025 and IEEE Sensors 2024, further reflecting her stature in the field.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Li’s core research interest lies in microfluidic technology for nucleic acid amplification, multiplex detection, and point-of-care diagnostics. She is particularly focused on developing integrated fluidic systems that are capable of rapid, accurate, and simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens or biomarkers. Her work often involves combining engineering principles such as centrifugal force and Euler force with advanced biochemical assays like LAMP and CRISPR. This interdisciplinary approach enables her to create portable diagnostic tools with immense potential in epidemic control, food safety, and personalized medicine.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Nan Li’s exceptional work has earned her several prestigious honors, including the Outstanding Reviewer Award from Microsystems & Nanoengineering in 2024. She was recognized as one of the Outstanding Graduates in Beijing in both 2016 and 2022. She also received the First Prize of Tsinghua University Comprehensive Scholarship in 2020 and the Gold Star Distinguished Research Award from the Biochip (Beijing) National Engineering Research Center in 2018 and 2020. Earlier in her academic journey, she was a recipient of the Tsinghua Future Scholar Scholarship, an award conferred upon top-performing doctoral candidates.

📚 Publications

Among Dr. Li’s numerous scientific publications, the following seven represent high-impact research in her field:

  1. Tianping Zhou, Nan Li* (2025). Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical. “Shockproof magnetofluidic multiplex nucleic acid system” – DOI: 10.1016/j.snb.2025.138139.

  2. Nan Li# et al. (2025). Biosensors & Bioelectronics, “Chip-based universal strategy for multiplex PCR”, Vol. 269, 116921.

  3. Bin Xiao# et al., Nan Li* (2024). Food Chemistry, “Toothpick DNA extraction with LAMP platform”, Vol. 460, 140659.

  4. Jiajia Liu# et al., Nan Li# (2024). Small Methods, “One-pot multiplex virus detection”, Vol. 8, 2400030. (Cover Article).

  5. Nan Li# et al. (2022). Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, “Euler force-assisted sequential liquid release”, Vol. 359, 131642.

  6. Nan Li et al. (2022). Lab on a Chip, “Fully integrated SNP genotyping for hearing loss”, Vol. 22(4): 697–708. (Cover Article).

  7. Nan Li# et al. (2021). Microsystems & Nanoengineering, “Raw-sample-in multiplexed detection system”, Vol. 7(1): 94.

These works are widely cited and demonstrate her contributions to practical innovations in diagnostic technologies.

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Nan Li’s trajectory exemplifies a dedicated and forward-thinking researcher whose work merges engineering innovation with biomedical applications. Through her trailblazing research in microfluidic systems and portable diagnostics, she has not only addressed pressing needs in healthcare but also helped shape the future of rapid disease detection. Her consistent output of high-impact publications, international recognition, and impressive list of awards collectively make her a deserving candidate for a Best Paper Award. Dr. Li’s blend of creativity, precision, and practical implementation reflects the qualities that such an award seeks to honor.

Siming Chen | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siming Chen | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award 

Associate research fellow, at China University of Mining and Technology, China.

Dr. Siming Chen, born on July 12, 1988, is a distinguished researcher in the field of chemical engineering, specializing in CO₂ capture and utilization. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Dezhou University (2008–2012), followed by a Doctorate in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Dalian University of Technology (2012–2018). Dr. Chen furthered his expertise through a joint cultivation program at the University of Melbourne in 2017–2018. Currently, he serves as a Research Associate at the Carbon Neutral Institute of China University of Mining and Technology, a position he has held since December 2022. Prior to this, he was a Lecturer at the School of Environmental Science and Engineering at Qingdao University from June 2018 to December 2022. His research focuses on innovative solutions for carbon capture, aiming to mitigate climate change impacts. Dr. Chen’s work has significantly contributed to advancements in sustainable chemical engineering practices. He can be reached via email at chsiming@126.com.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Chen’s academic journey began at Dezhou University, where he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry (2008–2012). He then pursued a Doctorate in Chemical Engineering and Technology at Dalian University of Technology (2012–2018), focusing on CO₂ capture technologies. In 2017–2018, he participated in a joint cultivation program at the University of Melbourne, enhancing his research capabilities and international perspective. This diverse educational background has equipped Dr. Chen with a robust foundation in chemical engineering, enabling him to address complex environmental challenges through innovative research.

Experience

Dr. Chen’s professional experience spans academia and research institutions. Since December 2022, he has been serving as a Research Associate at the Carbon Neutral Institute of China University of Mining and Technology, focusing on sustainable energy solutions. From June 2018 to December 2022, he worked as a Lecturer at the School of Environmental Science and Engineering at Qingdao University, where he taught and mentored students in environmental engineering disciplines. His roles have allowed him to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications in the field of chemical engineering.

Research Interests

Dr. Chen’s research interests are centered on CO₂ capture and utilization, aiming to develop low-energy consumption absorbents and efficient processes for carbon dioxide mitigation. His work includes the development of phase-change solvents, non-aqueous solvents, and desorption catalysts to enhance CO₂ absorption efficiency. Additionally, he explores the coupling processes of CO₂ capture using hollow fiber membrane contactors and integrated technologies for microalgae-based CO₂ fixation and lipid extraction. Through these innovative approaches, Dr. Chen strives to contribute to sustainable solutions for global carbon management.

Awards

Dr. Chen’s contributions to the field have been recognized through several prestigious awards. In 2014, he was part of the team that received the Second Prize of the Scientific and Technological Progress Award from the China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation for their work on high-efficiency CO₂ capture. In 2019, he contributed to the team awarded the First Prize of the Liaoning Provincial Science and Technology Progress Award for developing core technologies in CO₂ capture and purification. These accolades highlight his significant impact on advancing environmental engineering technologies.

Top Noted Publications

Dr. Chen has authored and co-authored numerous publications in reputable journals, contributing valuable insights into CO₂ capture technologies. Notable publications include:

1. Solid Waste of Fly Ash toward Energy-Efficient CO₂ Capture

  • Published in: ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 2023, 11(22), 8281–8293

  • DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c00657

  • Authors: Linlin Chen, Shijian Lu, Lei Zhang, Chunjin Zhang, Ling Liu, Guojun Kang, Hua Tang, Siming Chen

  • Summary: This study investigates the use of fly ash as a natural, low-cost catalyst for enhancing the MEA (monoethanolamine) CO₂ absorption–desorption process. The research demonstrates that fly ash contains Brønsted and Lewis acid–base sites, which facilitate proton and electron donation. Specifically, 1-FA (a type of fly ash) improved the CO₂ cyclic absorption capacity by 6.7–26.1%, increased the CO₂ desorption rate to 96.0%, and reduced sensible heat by 24–28% compared to pure MEA. The performance of 1-FA was comparable to that of HZSM-5, a conventional catalyst. ACS Publicationsfaculty.cumt.edu.cn+6Figshare+6X-MOL+6ACS Publications+2X-MOL+2Figshare+2

2. Low-Energy-Consuming CO₂ Capture by Liquid–Liquid Biphasic Absorbents of EMEA/DEEA/PX

  • Published in: Chemical Engineering Journal, 2022, 450, 138490

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2022.138490

  • Authors: Liju Bai, Shijian Lu, Qizheng Zhao, Linlin Chen, Yingjie Jiang, Chunxiao Jia, Siming Chen

  • Summary: This paper explores a liquid–liquid biphasic solvent system comprising EMEA (2-(ethylamino)ethanol), DEEA (diethylethanolamine), and PX (paraxylene) for CO₂ capture. The system offers low corrosivity and energy-efficient CO₂ absorption and desorption processes. The study highlights the potential of this biphasic system in reducing operational costs and enhancing the overall efficiency of CO₂ capture technologies. OUCI+3ACS Publications+3ACS Publications+3

3. Single-Step Integrated Technology for Enhanced CO₂ Biofixation and Efficient Lipid Extraction in Microalgal Systems Including a Water-Immiscible Solvent

  • Published in: Chemical Engineering Journal, 2022, 432, 134374

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2021.134374

  • Authors: Liju Bai, Shijian Lu, Shun Qiu, Jintong Li, Siming Chen

  • Summary: This research presents an integrated approach combining CO₂ biofixation by microalgae with efficient lipid extraction using a water-immiscible solvent. The system enhances CO₂ utilization and lipid production in a single-step process, offering a sustainable method for biofuel production. The study emphasizes the importance of solvent selection and process integration in optimizing the overall efficiency of the system. OUCI

Conclusion

Siming Chen is a strong and well-qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award in the environmental and chemical engineering field, particularly in carbon capture and utilization. His technical depth, innovative contributions, and record of publication and patents position him as a leading expert in his specialization. For even greater competitiveness, further growth in leadership visibility and cross-disciplinary impact would be beneficial.

Zeng Meng | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zeng Meng | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor, at Hefei university of technology, China.

Professor Meng Zeng is a leading academic at Hefei University of Technology, specializing in the optimization of uncertain structures, aerospace and civil structural design, and structural topology optimization. With a sharp focus on engineering innovation, Prof. Zeng has guided over 20 funded projects, including prestigious grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Recognized as an Outstanding Youth of Anhui Province, he is celebrated for his dedication to scientific progress. His excellence is marked by receiving two first-class Science & Technology Progress Awards from the Anhui Society of Mechanics. From 2021 to 2024, he has been consistently listed among the world’s top 2% scientists and is a highly cited author in the journal Computers & Structures. 📚 He has authored 90+ SCI papers, including 50+ as the first or corresponding author. His work has received over 4,200 citations, with 8 ESI highly cited papers and 3 hot papers. 🌟

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

🎓 Education

Professor Meng Zeng earned his academic credentials with distinction in civil and structural engineering. Though detailed records of his academic institutions are not publicly specified, his educational background reflects a strong foundation in mechanics and structural design, which paved the way for his current leadership in aerospace and civil engineering innovation. Throughout his education, Prof. Zeng focused on uncertainty modeling, computational mechanics, and optimization techniques, equipping him with the analytical expertise required for cutting-edge structural analysis. His academic training has fostered a mindset geared toward solving real-world engineering problems using theoretical rigor and computational sophistication. 🎓 As an educator and mentor, he now imparts this rich knowledge base to his students and research collaborators at Hefei University of Technology. His journey from a dedicated student to a globally recognized professor exemplifies the impact of solid academic preparation in shaping research excellence. 💼

💼 Experience

Professor Meng Zeng currently serves as a professor at Hefei University of Technology, where he leads research in structural optimization and engineering mechanics. With over 20 funded projects, his contributions span across the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), including two general and two youth projects. 🏗️ He has applied his research expertise to both aerospace and civil structure applications, combining theory with practical innovations. His role encompasses research leadership, postgraduate supervision, and national-level project management. His accolades from Anhui Society of Mechanics, including two first prizes in scientific and technological progress, affirm his high impact on the engineering community. 🏆 Prof. Zeng also represents China in international research through his involvement in peer-reviewed journals and collaborations. A consistent presence in the top 2% of global scientists (2021–2024), his work shapes modern methodologies in topology optimization and structural resilience under uncertain conditions. 🧠

🔬 Research Interest 

Prof. Meng Zeng’s research interests lie at the intersection of engineering mechanics and computational optimization. His primary focus is on the optimization of uncertain structures, where he develops methods to enhance structural performance despite variations in material properties or loading conditions. 🚀 He is also deeply involved in aerospace and civil structure analysis, contributing to safer and more efficient designs. Prof. Zeng is renowned for his work in structural topology optimization, an area that determines the optimal material layout within a given design space, a key element in lightweight and high-performance structural engineering. 🔧 His research integrates probabilistic methods, finite element analysis, and machine learning algorithms to solve complex, real-world problems. As a thought leader, Prof. Zeng not only advances theoretical mechanics but also offers transformative insights for engineering design under uncertainty, positioning him at the forefront of innovation in applied structural optimization. 📈

🏅 Awards

Professor Meng Zeng’s academic excellence and scientific innovation have earned him numerous accolades. Notably, he was selected as an Outstanding Youth of Anhui Province, a recognition of his early-career contributions to engineering science. 🏆 He has received two First-Class Science and Technology Progress Awards from the Anhui Society of Mechanics, underscoring the high societal and technological value of his work. Between 2021 and 2024, Prof. Zeng was consecutively listed among the world’s top 2% scientists, a global benchmark of research excellence. Additionally, he is a highly cited author in the prestigious journal Computers & Structures, highlighting the global reach and influence of his research. 🌟 These awards are a testament to his impact on both fundamental research and practical engineering applications, positioning him as a top-tier scientist and thought leader in the field of structural mechanics and optimization. 🎖️

📚 Top Noted Publications

Professor Meng Zeng has published over 90 peer-reviewed SCI papers, with more than 50 as first or corresponding author. His work is widely cited, having accumulated over 4,200 Google Scholar citations. He has contributed 8 ESI Highly Cited Papers and 3 Hot Papers, affirming his global academic influence. 🔍 His research often appears in top journals such as:

  1. Reliability-Based Topology Optimization (RBTO):

    • Articles:

      • Data-driven RBTO using extended multiscale FEM and neural networks

      • RBTO for continuum structures with nonlinear dynamics

      • Stress-constrained RBTO with fidelity transformation method

    • Highlights: Use of machine learning (e.g., neural networks), multiscale finite element modeling, and probabilistic analysis to optimize structural performance under uncertainty.

  2. Dynamic and Transient Response in Optimization:

    • Articles:

      • Transient dynamic topology optimization using equivalent static loads

      • Uncertainty-oriented topology optimization of dynamic structures

    • Highlights: Focus on efficient dynamic response prediction and hybrid uncertainties (probabilistic + spatial/random field modeling).

  3. Metaheuristic and Bio-Inspired Algorithms:

    • Article:

      • Starfish Optimization Algorithm (SFOA) – Compared with 100 optimizers.

    • Highlights: Development of novel optimization algorithms inspired by biological behaviors; applied to structural or global optimization problems.

  4. Concurrent Topology and Material Design:

    • Article:

      • Concurrent optimization of topology and fiber orientation under stress constraints

    • Highlights: Combines material orientation (like composite fibers) with shape optimization for optimal mechanical performance.

  5. Uncertainty Quantification Techniques:

    • Article:

      • Weight index-based uniform partitioning of multi-dimensional probability space

    • Highlights: Proposes a novel method to efficiently sample and compute in high-dimensional uncertainty spaces.

  6. Materials & Structural Systems Innovation:

    • Articles:

      • Porous functionally graded composite plates with graphene reinforcements

      • Non-uniform rectangular honeycomb sandwich panel

    • Highlights: Focus on lightweight, high-strength materials and sandwich structures for performance and efficiency.

Conclusion

Professor Meng Zeng is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive research output, impactful publications, strong citation record, and recognition at national and international levels highlight a career marked by innovation, consistency, and academic leadership. With minor improvements in global engagement and interdisciplinary expansion, he stands out as a role model for excellence in engineering research.

Karla Filian | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs Karla Filian |  Engineering |  Best Researcher Award

Graduate student in the Master’s program in Earth Sciences,  at Faculty of Engineering in Earth Sciences, ESPOL Polytechnic University,  Ecuador

Karla Filian Haz is a graduate student pursuing a Master’s in Earth Sciences at ESPOL Polytechnic University. With a background in Mining Engineering, she works as a Project Analyst, contributing to research and academic initiatives in Earth Sciences. Her research focuses on environmental pollution mitigation, water treatment technologies, and sustainable engineering solutions. She has co-authored two indexed journal articles and two conference papers, collaborating with international institutions such as Ghent University and the Mexican Geological Survey. Her work aims to develop innovative solutions for environmental management in mining and water treatment.

Profile:

Academic & Professional Background:

Mining Engineer pursuing a Master’s in Earth Sciences at ESPOL. Currently a Project Analyst, contributing to research, academic initiatives, and program coordination in Earth Sciences. Expertise in event organization, documentation management, and compliance.

Research & Innovations:

  • Research Projects: 4
  • Publications: 2 indexed journal articles, 2 conference papers
  • Citations: h-index: 1, Citations: 2
  • Collaborations: Ghent University (Belgium), Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil, Universidad del Pacífico (Ecuador), Mexican Geological Survey (SGM)

Research Areas:

Environmental engineering, pollution mitigation in mining, water treatment technologies, sustainable engineering solutions.

Key Contributions:

Research on environmental pollution, tailing dam risks, and desalination optimization using advanced membranes. Findings contribute to sustainable solutions for water treatment and environmental management in the mining industry.

Publication Top  Notes:

Title: Assessment of Environmental Pollution and Risks Associated with Tailing Dams in a Historical Gold Mining Area of Ecuador
Authors: B. Salgado-Almeida, A. Briones-Escalante, D. Falquez-Torres, E. Peña-Carpio, S. Jiménez-Oyola
Journal: Resources (2024)
Citations: 1