David OMOLE | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. David OMOLE | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. David OMOLE, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa

Dr. David Olugbenga Omole is a seasoned academic and professional in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering, currently serving as Associate Professor at the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. With over two decades of experience in engineering education, research, and administration, he has built a strong legacy of innovation and excellence. His previous appointments at Covenant University, Nigeria, included roles such as Dean of the College of Engineering and Director of the Vice-Chancellor’s Office. Dr. Omole’s commitment to sustainable water solutions and environmental stewardship has earned him recognition as a trailblazer in the field. From spearheading outcome-based education frameworks to guiding global university rankings submissions, his contributions are transformative. Known for his multidisciplinary leadership, he also holds an MPA, showcasing his holistic approach to engineering challenges. His research interests and publications demonstrate a profound impact on water quality, sanitation, environmental risk assessment, and infrastructure systems.

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🌟 Assessment for the Research for Best Researcher Award: David Olugbenga Omole

Summary of Suitability:

Dr. David Olugbenga Omole exemplifies the criteria for the Research for Best Researcher Award through his exceptional blend of academic achievement, administrative leadership, and innovative research in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering. With a Ph.D. from Covenant University and a solid engineering and public administration background, Dr. Omole’s interdisciplinary expertise positions him at the forefront of sustainable civil infrastructure development and water resource management in Africa.

Over a two-decade-long career, he has moved steadily through academic ranks—from graduate assistant to full professor—and now serves as Associate Professor of Water Engineering at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. This trajectory reflects both academic rigor and a deep commitment to research, teaching, and mentoring.

🎓 Education

Dr. Omole’s academic foundation is grounded in an interdisciplinary blend of civil engineering and public administration. He earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering with a focus on Water Resources & Environmental Engineering from Covenant University, Nigeria, in 2011. Prior to this, he completed his M.Eng. in the same field at Covenant University in 2006, solidifying his expertise in water systems and sustainability. Demonstrating a broader administrative interest, he pursued a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at the University of Ado-Ekiti in 2008, equipping him with strategic leadership and governance skills. His undergraduate education was at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, where he obtained a Second Class Upper Division degree in Civil Engineering in 2000. This blend of technical proficiency and policy awareness has empowered Dr. Omole to navigate academic leadership roles effectively while contributing robustly to applied research in water engineering and environmental development.

💼 Professional Experience 

Dr. David Omole brings a wealth of experience from both academic and industrial spheres. He currently serves as Associate Professor of Water Engineering at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. Previously, he was a Professor at Covenant University, where he also held administrative leadership roles such as Dean, Sub-Dean, and Director in the Vice-Chancellor’s Office. His professional journey spans positions from Graduate Assistant to Professor, marking a steady rise through teaching, mentoring, research, and innovation. Notably, he contributed significantly during his postdoctoral tenure at Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria. Earlier in his career, he worked as a Resident Engineer at Yebason Nigeria Ltd, gaining hands-on engineering experience. In these diverse roles, Dr. Omole has led curriculum reforms, implemented outcome-based education, initiated industry collaborations, and contributed to university ranking strategies, establishing him as a multidimensional leader in civil and environmental engineering education and research.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Omole has received several accolades and held prestigious leadership roles in academia. As Dean of the College of Engineering at Covenant University, he initiated Nigeria’s first Industry Board for engineering faculties, setting a benchmark nationwide. He also pioneered outcome-based education strategies at Covenant University, helping align the institution with the Washington Accord. His tenure as Director in the Vice-Chancellor’s Office was marked by groundbreaking contributions, including designing the university’s promotion system based on SCOPUS metrics and coordinating the university’s entry into global rankings via Times Higher Education, which placed Covenant University at the top in Nigeria. A member of the Global Engineering Deans Council and CODET, his work bridges academic theory and industrial practice. His strategic leadership and dedication to research excellence have earned him accolades and widespread recognition for advancing engineering education, sustainability, and institutional excellence.

🌍 Research Skill On Engineering

Dr. Omole is a multidisciplinary researcher with a keen focus on Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Risk Assessment, Urban Water Management, and Sustainability in Infrastructure. His research skillset blends field expertise with data analytics, environmental modeling, water quality monitoring, and stakeholder engagement. He has investigated pressing issues such as access to clean water in Sub-Saharan Africa, ceramic waste reuse in concrete, and the impacts of land use on water systems. An advocate of applied research, Dr. Omole’s work often intersects policy, engineering innovation, and societal needs. His approach integrates empirical data collection with advanced simulations and decision-support frameworks. He has also published extensively on waste management, groundwater contamination, and water purification technologies. With a deep understanding of sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), his work contributes directly to both academic advancement and practical implementation of water resource solutions.

 📖  Publication Top Notes

  • Characterization of ceramic waste aggregate concrete 🧱
    Authors: P.O. Awoyera, J.M. Ndambuki, J.O. Akinmusuru, D.O. Omole
    Citation: 216 | Year: 2018

  • Accessing safe drinking water in sub-Saharan Africa: Issues and challenges in South–West Nigeria 💧🌍
    Authors: C.P. Emenike, I.T. Tenebe, D.O. Omole, B.U. Ngene, B.I. Oniemayin, O. Maxwell, …
    Citation: 169 | Year: 2017

  • An Assessment of the Impact of Abattoir Effluents on River Illo, Ota, Nigeria 🐄🌊
    Authors: D.O. Omole, E.O. Longe
    Citation: 119 | Year: 2008

  • An integrated assessment of land-use change impact, seasonal variation of pollution indices and human health risk… 🧪📊
    Authors: P.G.C. Emenike, I.T. Tenebe, J.B. Neris, D.O. Omole, O. Afolayan, C.U. Okeke, …
    Citation: 113 | Year: 2020

  • Geopolymer concrete incorporating agro-industrial wastes… 🏗️🌾
    Authors: S. Oyebisi, A. Ede, F. Olutoge, D. Omole
    Citation: 108 | Year: 2020

  • Assessment of the impact of abattoir effluent on groundwater in Omu-Aran, Nigeria 💧🐖
    Authors: O.O. Elemile, D.O. Raphael, D.O. Omole, E.O. Oloruntoba, E.O. Ajayi, …
    Citation: 106 | Year: 2019

  • Assessing the public perceptions of treated wastewater reuse… ♻️👥
    Authors: V.E. Akpan, D.O. Omole, D.E. Bassey
    Citation: 105 | Year: 2020

  • Potentiality of agricultural adsorbent for metal ion removal from wastewater 🌽🧲
    Authors: P.C. Emenike, D.O. Omole, B.U. Ngene, I.T. Tenebe
    Citation: 96 | Year: 2016

  • Health risk and environmental assessment of cement production in Nigeria 🏭⚠️
    Authors: M.A. Etim, K. Babaremu, J. Lazarus, D. Omole
    Citation: 91 | Year: 2021

  • Wind Energy Study and Energy Cost in Nigeria: A Case for South West Nigeria 🌬️⚡
    Authors: O.O. Ajayi, R.O. Fagbenle, J. Katende, J.M. Ndambuki, D.O. Omole, A.A. Badejo
    Citation: 82 | Year: 2014

Shagufta Riaz | Engineering | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Shagufta Riaz | Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Shagufta Riaz, National Textile University, Pakistan 

Dr. Shagufta Riaz is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Textile Engineering at National Textile University, Faisalabad, Pakistan. With a Ph.D. in Textile Engineering, she specializes in functional textiles, focusing on the use of nanomaterials for textile development. Dr. Riaz has authored several influential publications and has completed various high-impact research projects. She has worked as a researcher at the Wilson School of Textiles in the USA and is actively involved in advancing textile innovations. A member of prestigious international organizations like the Textile Institute and the Pakistan Engineering Council, Dr. Riaz is committed to sustainable textile solutions.

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Suitability of Dr. Shagufta Riaz for the Research for Women Researcher Award

Dr. Shagufta Riaz is a highly accomplished researcher in textile engineering, specializing in functional textiles and nanotechnology applications. Her extensive academic background, including a Ph.D. in Textile Engineering and international research experience at the Wilson School of Textiles, NCSU, USA, demonstrates her expertise in the field. She has significantly contributed to the advancement of sustainable textile innovations, textile finishing, and the development of nanomaterials for multifunctional textile applications. As an HEC Ph.D. Approved Supervisor and a Fellow of the Textile Institute, UK, she has played a crucial role in mentoring young researchers and advancing academic excellence in textile engineering.

Her research portfolio includes several high-impact projects funded at both national and international levels, focusing on crucial areas such as RF-shielding maternity garments, recycling of cellulosic waste for graphene quantum dots, and sustainable bio-processing in textile manufacturing. Additionally, her collaborations with industry highlight her ability to bridge the gap between academic research and practical industrial applications. Notable projects include the development of antibacterial medical gauze, pesticide-resistant clothing, and UV-shielding protective garments, which showcase her commitment to improving textile functionality for real-world challenges.

🎓 Education

Dr. Shagufta Riaz holds a Ph.D. in Textile Engineering from National Textile University, Faisalabad, Pakistan, where she also completed her M.Sc. in Textile Advanced Materials Engineering and B.Sc. in Textile Engineering with distinctions. She further honed her skills as a researcher at the Wilson School of Textiles, North Carolina State University, USA. This educational foundation, coupled with her hands-on research experience, forms the backbone of her expertise in nanotechnology, textile finishing, and sustainable textile innovations.

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Shagufta Riaz is an Assistant Professor at National Textile University, Faisalabad. She has led and collaborated on multiple research projects, including those in partnership with international institutions and the textile industry. Her professional experience spans research in textile engineering, focusing on nanomaterials and sustainable solutions. Dr. Riaz has consulted on industry projects to optimize processes in textile production, such as designing protective garments and improving fabric properties. Her role as a Ph.D. supervisor and her recognition as a Fellow of the Textile Institute, UK, highlight her significant contribution to academia and industry.

🏅 Awards and Recognition

Dr. Shagufta Riaz’s academic excellence is evidenced by her recognition as a Fellow of the Textile Institute, UK, and a Lifetime Member of the Pakistan Engineering Council. She has received multiple accolades for her contributions to textile engineering, including a significant number of awards for her research in nanotechnology and textile innovations. Her work, recognized internationally, is reflected in numerous high-impact publications and the completion of major research and consultancy projects in collaboration with the textile industry.

🌍 Research Skills On Engineering

Dr. Riaz is an expert in nanotechnology applications in textile engineering, particularly for the development of multifunctional textiles. Her research focuses on the integration of nanomaterials to enhance textile properties such as antimicrobial, UV resistance, and electrical shielding. She has completed several research projects under government and industry funding, contributing valuable advancements in sustainable textiles, functional finishes, and eco-friendly processes. Dr. Riaz’s skills extend to guiding doctoral research and publishing in prestigious journals, marking her as a leading researcher in textile engineering.

📖 Publication Top Notes

  • Fabrication of robust multifaceted textiles by application of functionalized TiO₂ nanoparticles

    • Authors: S. Riaz, M. Ashraf, T. Hussain, M.T. Hussain, A. Younus
    • Citations: 95
    • Year: 2019

  • Functional finishing and coloration of textiles with nanomaterials

    • Authors: S. Riaz, M. Ashraf, T. Hussain, M.T. Hussain, A. Rehman, A. Javid, K. Iqbal, …
    • Citations: 77
    • Year: 2018

  • Modification of silica nanoparticles to develop highly durable superhydrophobic and antibacterial cotton fabrics

    • Authors: S. Riaz, M. Ashraf, T. Hussain, M.T. Hussain
    • Citations: 58
    • Year: 2019

  • Electrospun nanofiber-based viroblock/ZnO/PAN hybrid antiviral nanocomposite for personal protective applications

    • Authors: A. Salam, T. Hassan, T. Jabri, S. Riaz, A. Khan, K.M. Iqbal, S. Khan, M. Wasim, …
    • Citations: 41
    • Year: 2021

  • Cationization of TiO₂ nanoparticles to develop highly durable multifunctional cotton fabric

    • Authors: S. Riaz, M. Ashraf, H. Aziz, A. Younus, M. Umair, A. Salam, K. Iqbal, …
    • Citations: 31
    • Year: 2022

  • Layer by layer deposition of PEDOT, silver and copper to develop durable, flexible, and EMI shielding and antibacterial textiles

    • Authors: S. Riaz, S. Naz, A. Younus, A. Javid, S. Akram, A. Nosheen, M. Ashraf
    • Citations: 26
    • Year: 2022

  • Multifunctional formaldehyde-free finishing of cotton by using metal oxide nanoparticles and eco-friendly cross-linkers

    • Authors: N. Sarwar, M. Ashraf, M. Mohsin, A. Rehman, A. Younus, A. Javid, K. Iqbal, …
    • Citations: 24
    • Year: 2019

  • In situ development and application of natural coatings on non-absorbable sutures to reduce incision site infections

    • Authors: R. Masood, T. Hussain, M. Umar, Azeemullah, T. Areeb, S. Riaz
    • Citations: 21
    • Year: 2017

  • Selection and Optimization of Silane Coupling Agents to Develop Durable Functional Cotton Fabrics Using TiO₂ Nanoparticles

    • Authors: S. Riaz, M. Ashraf, T. Hussain, M.T. Hussain, A. Younus, M. Raza, A. Nosheen
    • Citations: 20
    • Year: 2021

  • Simultaneous fixation of wrinkle-free finish and reactive dye on cotton using response surface methodology

    • Authors: S. Abid, T. Hussain, A. Nazir, Z.A. Raza, A. Siddique, A. Azeem, S. Riaz
    • Citations: 16
    • Year: 2018

Yakshansh Kumar | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Yakshansh Kumar | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Yakshansh Kumar, Delhi Technological University, India

Yakshansh Kumar is a highly motivated researcher and academician in the field of Civil Engineering, with a specialization in Pavement-Soil Dynamics. Currently pursuing his PhD at Delhi Technological University, he focuses on dynamic response analysis of pavement-soil systems using piezo sensors. He has actively contributed to several publications and international conferences, establishing himself as a promising expert in geotechnical engineering. Passionate about advancing knowledge and fostering innovation, Yakshansh is also involved in mentoring students and advancing research projects. His dedication and commitment are evident in his academic achievements and research pursuits.

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Summary of Suitability for the “Research for Best Researcher Award”

Yakshansh Kumar is a promising and dedicated researcher with a strong academic foundation and a demonstrated commitment to advancing the field of civil and geotechnical engineering, particularly in pavement-soil dynamics. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Delhi Technological University, his research focus on dynamic response analysis of pavement-soil systems using piezo sensors exemplifies his innovative approach to solving complex engineering challenges. His research is not only theoretically robust but also applied, with funding from the university’s IRD and the use of experimental testing and finite element analysis in his investigations.

Kumar’s publication record is impressive, with multiple articles in high-impact journals such as International Journal of Non-Linear Mechanics (SCIE, Q1) and Journal of Vibration Engineering and Technologies (SCIE, Q2). He has contributed to the scientific community with key insights on dynamic load vibrations, piezo-dynamics, and the role of machine learning in geotechnical analysis. His research has garnered attention on both national and international platforms, demonstrated by his active participation in numerous conferences, where he has won awards for best technical papers.

🎓  Education

Yakshansh Kumar holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from Delhi Technological University (DTU), where he is conducting research on the dynamic analysis of pavement-soil systems. He earned his Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering from DTU, achieving a CGPA of 7.49. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at Hindu College of Engineering (affiliated with DCRUSTM) with a CGPA of 6.37. Throughout his academic career, Yakshansh has demonstrated a strong foundation in engineering principles, with a specific interest in soil dynamics and pavement systems. His rigorous research work has led to multiple scholarly contributions in well-regarded journals and international conferences.

💼 Professional Experience

Yakshansh Kumar has an extensive academic and research background. He is currently working on his PhD project, funded by the IRD-DTU, which focuses on pavement-soil dynamics using piezo sensors for experimental testing and finite element analysis. As part of his professional journey, Yakshansh has contributed to several research papers, conferences, and has collaborated with experts in geotechnical engineering. He has also participated as a reviewer in esteemed journals such as Transportation Infrastructure Geotechnology. In addition to his research, he has attended workshops and seminars, including a national seminar on Science Day and faculty development programs, showcasing his dedication to continuous learning. His involvement in teaching and research continues to shape his career path.

🏅  Awards and Recognition

Yakshansh Kumar has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to research and academic excellence. He was awarded the Best Technical Paper Award for his work on “Velocity Induced Post Elastic Response of Pavements” presented at the Sustainable Infrastructure: Innovations, Opportunities, and Challenges (SIIOC 2024). In addition, his paper on “Post Elastic Response of Pavement Subjected to Moving Load” received the Best Paper Award at the International Online Conference on Energy Science (ICES 2021). His work has been published in high-impact journals such as the International Journal of Non-Linear Mechanics and Journal of Vibration Engineering and Technologies. He has also been recognized as a reviewer for journals and international conferences, reflecting his academic credibility and recognition in the field of geotechnical engineering.

🌍 Research Skills On Engineering

Yakshansh Kumar possesses strong research skills, particularly in the areas of pavement-soil dynamics, finite element analysis, and piezo-dynamics of geomaterials. His expertise lies in dynamic response analysis using experimental testing and numerical modeling. His ongoing PhD project focuses on piezo sensors and their application to pavement systems, supported by funding from IRD-DTU. Yakshansh has demonstrated his proficiency in using advanced software for computational modeling and simulations, as well as conducting real-world experimental tests. His research contributes to understanding the behavior of pavements under dynamic loads, which is vital for improving infrastructure performance. His skills are complemented by his ability to collaborate with peers, present research at conferences, and publish in well-regarded journals.

📖 Publication Top Notes

  • Damage evaluation in pavement-geomaterial system using finite element-scaled accelerated pavement testing

    • Authors: Y Kumar, A Trivedi, SK Shukla
    • Citation: Kumar, Y., Trivedi, A., & Shukla, S. K. (2023). Damage evaluation in pavement-geomaterial system using finite element-scaled accelerated pavement testing. Transportation Infrastructure Geotechnology, 11(3), 922-933.
    • Year: 2023

  • Damage evaluation in pavement-geomaterial system using finite element-scaled accelerated pavement testing

    • Authors: Y Kumar, A Trivedi, SK Shukla
    • Citation: Kumar, Y., Trivedi, A., & Shukla, S. K. (2024). Damage evaluation in pavement-geomaterial system using finite element-scaled accelerated pavement testing. Transportation Infrastructure Geotechnology, 11(3), 922-933.
    • Year: 2024

  • Deflections governed by the cyclic strength of rigid pavement subjected to structural vibration due to high-velocity moving loads

    • Authors: Y Kumar, A Trivedi, SK Shukla
    • Citation: Kumar, Y., Trivedi, A., & Shukla, S. K. (2024). Deflections governed by the cyclic strength of rigid pavement subjected to structural vibration due to high-velocity moving loads. Journal of Vibration Engineering & Technologies, 12(3), 3543-3562.
    • Year: 2024

  • Investigating the Influence of Frequency on Piezo-dynamics of Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) Films Embedded in Confined Geomaterials

    • Authors: Y Kumar, A Trivedi, SK Shukla
    • Citation: Kumar, Y., Trivedi, A., & Shukla, S. K. (2024). Investigating the Influence of Frequency on Piezo-dynamics of Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) Films Embedded in Confined Geomaterials. Journal of Vibration Engineering & Technologies, 1-20.
    • Year: 2024

  • Application of machine learning technique for dynamic analysis of confined geomaterial subjected to vibratory load

    • Authors: A Boban, P Pateriya, Y Kumar, K Gaur, A Trivedi
    • Citation: Boban, A., Pateriya, P., Kumar, Y., Gaur, K., & Trivedi, A. (2024). Application of machine learning technique for dynamic analysis of confined geomaterial subjected to vibratory load. AI in Civil Engineering, 3(1), 2.
    • Year: 2024

  • Influence of Jute Reinforcement on the Stiffness Capacity of Cohesionless Pavement Geomaterials

    • Authors: P Kumar, Y Kumar, A Trivedi
    • Citation: Kumar, P., Kumar, Y., & Trivedi, A. (2023). Influence of Jute Reinforcement on the Stiffness Capacity of Cohesionless Pavement Geomaterials. International Conference on Interdisciplinary Approaches in Civil Engineering.
    • Year: 2023

  • Numerical and Experimental Investigation of a Confined Geomaterial Subjected to Vibratory Load

    • Authors: A Boban, Y Kumar, A Trivedi
    • Citation: Boban, A., Kumar, Y., & Trivedi, A. (2023). Numerical and Experimental Investigation of a Confined Geomaterial Subjected to Vibratory Load. International Conference on Sustainable Infrastructure: Innovation.
    • Year: 2023

  • Impact of Moving Load Vibrations on Pavement Damage Supported by Flow-Controlled Geomaterials

    • Authors: Y Kumar, A Trivedi, SK Shukla
    • Citation: Kumar, Y., Trivedi, A., & Shukla, S. K. (2024). Impact of Moving Load Vibrations on Pavement Damage Supported by Flow-Controlled Geomaterials. Available at SSRN 5002829.
    • Year: 2024