Kirill Poletkin | Engineering | Best Research Article Award

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Prof. Kirill Poletkin | Engineering | Best Research Article Award

Hefei University of Technology | China

Professor Kirill V. Poletkin is a distinguished researcher and academic specializing in micro- and nano-scale electromechanical systems, contactless levitation micro-actuators, MEMS inertial sensors, and precision instrumentation. He currently serves as a Professor (Talents Programme) at the School of Instrument Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, China. Prof. Poletkin earned his Ph.D. in Control Systems, Informatics, and Electrical Engineering from the Moscow Aviation Institute in 2007, where his doctoral research focused on closed-loop rotor vibratory gyroscopes. He obtained his M.Eng. with honors from Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University, with award-winning research in vibration theory and dynamically tuned gyroscopes recognized by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation. With over two decades of international research experience, he has held academic and research positions at leading institutions including the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, University of Freiburg, Nanyang Technological University, Innopolis University, and New Uzbekistan University. He is a former Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellow and has served as Principal Investigator on multiple competitively funded projects supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and Chinese provincial agencies. Prof. Poletkin has authored over 86 scientific publications, including 37 peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and a Springer monograph titled Levitation Micro-Systems: Applications to Sensors and Actuators. His pioneering contributions to zero–spring-constant contactless suspensions, hybrid inductive–electrostatic levitation systems, and semi-analytical electromagnetic modeling have enabled new generations of high-precision sensors, actuators, and micro-transport technologies.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

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Citations
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Featured Publications

Size Ai | Engineering | Research Excellence Award

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Mr. Size Ai | Engineering | Research Excellence Award 

Harbin Institute of Technology | China

Dr. Size Ai, currently a PhD researcher at the Harbin Institute of Technology, is an emerging scholar in the field of mechanical metamaterials and advanced structural design. Holding a PhD in Mechanics from Harbin Institute of Technology, Dr. Ai has developed strong expertise in the design, modeling, and steady-state analysis of mechanical metamaterials, focusing particularly on negative stiffness structures, multi-stable metastructures, and pneumatic actuators with tunable mechanical responses. His academic journey reflects a commitment to high-quality research, having published three SCI-indexed papers in top-tier JCR Q1 journals such as Thin-Walled Structures and Engineering Structures. His works include: “Analysis of Negative Stiffness Structures with B-spline Curved Beams” (Thin-Walled Structures, 2024), “Design and Analysis of an Origami-Embedded Multi-Stable Metastructure with Shape Reconfiguration” (Engineering Structures, 2025), and “Deep Learning-Based Structural Design and Mechanical Properties Analysis of Pneumatic Actuators with Tunable Multistability” (Thin-Walled Structures, 2025). These publications highlight Dr. Ai’s ability to integrate theoretical modeling, simulation optimization, deep learning techniques, and experimental validation to solve complex challenges in structural mechanics. He has contributed significantly to ongoing national research through his involvement in the National Natural Science Foundation of China project (Grant No. 12372041), which further demonstrates his active engagement in advancing scientific knowledge. One of Dr. Ai’s major contributions includes developing a configuration parameterization method based on B-spline curves to customize negative stiffness characteristics in metamaterials. Additionally, he proposed a steady-state switching strategy using reconfigurable energy barrier elements, enabling precise control over multi-stability and shape transformation in engineered structures. His work successfully demonstrates, through combined theory, simulations, and experiments, the feasibility of programmable mechanical behavior after forming—an advancement with promising applications in soft robotics, adaptive structures, vibration isolation, and smart materials. Dr. Ai’s research continues to attract academic attention, with citations indexed in the Web of Science database. He maintains a strong ethical commitment to research integrity, with no consultancy projects, patents, or books yet undertaken. While he currently holds no editorial appointments, professional memberships, or formal collaborations, his research trajectory shows excellence, independence, and innovation, positioning him as a competitive candidate for the Research Excellence Award. Dr. Ai affirms that all submitted information is accurate, verifiable, and supported by relevant research links, including: 10.1016/j.tws.2025.114287 and 10.1016/j.tws.2023.111418. He fully agrees to the terms, policies, and responsibilities associated with this award nomination and submits this application with the highest level of integrity.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Ai, S., Xie, Z., & Wei, J. (2025, November). Deep learning-based structural design and mechanical properties analysis of pneumatic actuators with tunable multistability.

Ai, S., Hou, S., Wei, J., & Xie, Z. (2025, October). Design and analysis of an origami-embedded multi-stable metastructure with shape reconfiguration.

Hou, S., Wei, J., Ai, S., & Tan, H. F. (2025, March). Broadband nonlinear vibration isolation for a friction dynamic system via quasi-zero stiffness isolator.

Bian, S., Ai, S., Wei, J., & Qingxiang, J. (2025, March). Structural design and performance analysis of large inflatable solar membrane reflector.

Ai, S., Wei, J., Xie, Z., & Tan, H. F. (2023, November). Analysis of negative stiffness structures with B-spline curved beams.

Abu Farzan Mitul | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Abu Farzan Mitul | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Leidos | United States

Dr. Abu Farzan Mitul is an accomplished researcher and educator specializing in opto-electronic device fabrication, fiber optic sensing technologies, and nanostructured thin-film materials. His research bridges the intersection of photonics, materials science, and advanced sensing systems — contributing to innovations that enhance environmental monitoring, industrial automation, and biomedical diagnostics. Dr. Mitul earned his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), USA, where he designed and developed advanced fiber Bragg grating sensors and thin-film photonic devices for multi-parameter sensing applications. His earlier academic training includes a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Applied Physics, Electronics, and Communication Engineering from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Throughout his career, Dr. Mitul has collaborated with leading U.S. research institutions and agencies, including the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DoD), and NASA, focusing on next-generation optoelectronic and energy-efficient sensing systems. His extensive publication record spans high-impact journals and international conferences in photonics, sensor technology, and materials characterization. In addition to his research, Dr. Mitul has served as a faculty member and laboratory instructor, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in electronics, photonics, and experimental physics. He is passionate about advancing interdisciplinary research in fiber optic sensing, MEMS/NEMS devices, photonic integrated systems, and nanotechnology-driven device engineering. Dr. Mitul continues to explore innovative pathways toward miniaturized, high-sensitivity photonic systems with applications across environmental, aerospace, and biomedical fields — aligning cutting-edge materials research with sustainable technological development.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar | Linkedin

Featured Publications

Adhikari, N., Dubey, A., Khatiwada, D., Mitul, A. F., Wang, Q., Venkatesan, S., & Qiao, Q. (2015). Interfacial study to suppress charge carrier recombination for high efficiency perovskite solar cells. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 7(48), 26445–26454. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.5b08343

Rana, G. M. S. M., Khan, A. A. M., Hoque, M. N., & Mitul, A. F. (2013, December). Design and implementation of a GSM based remote home security and appliance control system. In 2013 2nd International Conference on Advances in Electrical Engineering (ICAEE) (pp. 291–295). IEEE. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICAEE.2013.6750340

Khatiwada, D., Venkatesan, S., Adhikari, N., Dubey, A., Mitul, A. F., Mohammad, L., … & Qiao, Q. (2015). Efficient perovskite solar cells by temperature control in single and mixed halide precursor solutions and films. The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 119(46), 25747–25753. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.5b08667

Mitul, A. F., Mohammad, L., Venkatesan, S., Adhikari, N., Sigdel, S., Wang, Q., … & Qiao, Q. (2015). Low temperature efficient interconnecting layer for tandem polymer solar cells. Nano Energy, 11, 56–63. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nanoen.2014.10.030

Venkatesan, S., Ngo, E. C., Chen, Q., Dubey, A., Mohammad, L., Adhikari, N., … & Qiao, Q. (2014). Benzothiadiazole-based polymer for single and double junction solar cells with high open circuit voltage. Nanoscale, 6(12), 7093–7100. https://doi.org/10.1039/C4NR00606H

Islam, M. M., Rafi, F. H. M., Mitul, A. F., Ahmad, M., Rashid, M. A., & Malek, M. F. B. A. (2012, May). Development of a noninvasive continuous blood pressure measurement and monitoring system. In 2012 International Conference on Informatics, Electronics & Vision (ICIEV) (pp. 695–699). IEEE. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICIEV.2012.6317425

 

William Gardner | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. William Gardner | Engineering | Best Researcher Award 

University of California, Davis | United States

Dr. William A. Gardner is an esteemed scholar and pioneer in statistical signal processing, particularly renowned for his foundational contributions to cyclostationary signal processing theory and methods. His postsecondary education began with a Certificate in Aircraft Radio Repair (1961) at Keesler Air Force Base, followed by coursework in electronics and electrical engineering at Foothill College and Stanford University, where he earned his M.S. in Electrical Engineering (1967). He pursued further graduate studies at MIT and Bell Labs, and earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (1972). Dr. Gardner joined the University of California, Davis in 1972, where he advanced to Professor VII before becoming Professor Emeritus in 2001. Over his career, he supervised numerous M.S. and Ph.D. theses focused on statistical signal processing, especially the exploitation of cyclostationarity in communications and signals intelligence. In 1986, Dr. Gardner founded Statistical Signal Processing, Inc. (SSPI), a private research firm dedicated to advanced algorithm development for radio reconnaissance, signals intelligence, and cellular communications. The firm, which operated for 25 years, licensed its technologies to major corporations including Apple Inc. and Lockheed Martin. Post-retirement, he continued research collaborations—most notably with Prof. Antonio Napolitano—on advanced statistical cyclicity and nonstationary signal behavior. His recent work has expanded into electromagnetic modeling of cosmic plasma and laboratory-confined plasma, supporting paradigm-challenging efforts such as the Plasma Universe, Thunderbolts Project, and the SAFIRE Project, all aimed at redefining astrophysical theory and clean energy generation. Dr. Gardner is the author of four influential books, including Introduction to Random Processes and Statistical Spectral Analysis, and editor of Cyclostationarity in Communications and Signal Processing. He has contributed chapters to five other books, authored or co-authored over 110 peer-reviewed journal papers, and holds 15 U.S. patents. His academic impact is reflected in a citation count exceeding 7489, an h-index of 33, and continued recognition for shaping the theoretical underpinnings of modern signal processing. He has delivered invited lectures globally and remains a thought leader across academia, industry, and emerging scientific paradigms.

Profiles:  Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Gardner, W. A. (2002). Exploitation of spectral redundancy in cyclostationary signals. IEEE Signal Processing Magazine, 8(2), 14–36.

Gardner, W. A. (1990). Introduction to random processes: With applications to signals and systems. McGraw-Hill.

Gardner, W. A., Napolitano, A., & Paura, L. (2006). Cyclostationarity: Half a century of research. Signal Processing, 86(4), 639–697.

Gardner, W. A., & Robinson, E. A. (1989). Statistical spectral analysis—A nonprobabilistic theory. Prentice-Hall.

Gardner, W. A. (1994). Cyclostationarity in communications and signal processing. IEEE Press.

Gardner, W. A. (2002). Signal interception: A unifying theoretical framework for feature detection. IEEE Transactions on Communications, 36(8), 897–906.

Gardner, W. A., Brown, W., & Chen, C. K. (1987). Spectral correlation of modulated signals: Part II—Digital modulation. IEEE Transactions on Communications, 35(6), 595–601.

Gardner, W. A., & Franks, L. E. (1975). Characterization of cyclostationary random signal processes. IEEE Transactions on Information Theory, 21(1), 4–14.

Gardner, W. A., & Spooner, C. M. (1992). Signal interception: Performance advantages of cyclic-feature detectors. IEEE Transactions on Communications, 40(1), 149–159.

Jun Liu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award | 13444

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jun Liu | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jun Liu, North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jun Liu is an Assistant Professor and Master’s Supervisor in the Department of Thermal Engineering at North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power. He holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Thermophysics from Zhejiang University and specializes in CO₂ capture and utilization, solid waste treatment, multiphase flow and combustion simulation, and pollutant removal technologies. Dr. Liu has led multiple provincial-level research projects and published extensively in SCI and EI-indexed journals. His teaching focuses on boiler principles, operations, and clean combustion technologies.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jun Liu began his academic journey with a solid foundation in engineering and technology. In 2005, he enrolled at Shanxi University, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Automation under the Department of Information Engineering. This initial exposure to systems control and engineering principles cultivated his interest in energy systems and laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in thermal engineering and environmental research. In 2009, he took a decisive step toward specializing in energy technologies by pursuing a Master’s degree in Fluid Machinery and Engineering at the School of Electric Power, North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power. Here, he honed his understanding of energy conversion systems, power plant operations, and machinery critical to thermal power generation. His passion for research and academic excellence led him to earn a Ph.D. in Engineering Thermophysics at the prestigious Zhejiang University from 2012 to 2016. This phase of his education sharpened his expertise in combustion processes, thermodynamic systems, and pollutant control, which later became key pillars of his professional and research identity.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Following the completion of his doctorate, Dr. Liu began his professional career at the Xi’an Thermal Power Research Institute Co., Ltd., Suzhou Branch in 2016. In this applied research environment, he gained hands-on experience in industrial-scale power systems and thermal processes, translating academic knowledge into practical solutions. In April 2019, Dr. Liu returned to academia, joining the College of Energy and Power Engineering at the North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power as an Assistant Professor and Master’s Supervisor. His return marked a blend of academic vigor and industrial insight, enriching the university’s teaching and research capabilities.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Liu’s research spans several crucial areas within energy and environmental engineering:

  1. CO₂ Capture and Resource Utilization – He leads studies on innovative adsorbent materials and absorption technologies aimed at mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

  2. Solid Waste Treatment – His work on incinerator systems and waste-to-energy solutions contributes to sustainable waste management practices.

  3. Multiphase Flow and Combustion Simulation – By modeling combustion processes, he aims to optimize energy efficiency and reduce emissions.

  4. Pollutant Removal – His research explores integrated technologies for removing NOx, SOx, and other harmful emissions from combustion systems.

He has presided over several key provincial research projects, including studies on CO₂ adsorption kinetics, microencapsulated absorbents, and waste heat boiler performance. His work reflects a deep commitment

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

to both scientific innovation and environmental sustainability.

Dr. Liu’s contributions have been recognized with several prestigious awards:

  • 🥇 First Prize, Boiler Science and Technology Award (2023), for his contributions to power generation technology for large mechanical grates.

  • 🥈 Second Prize, Henan Provincial Science and Technology Progress Award (2022), for his role in developing low-temperature waste heat recovery systems.

  • 🏆 First Prize, Excellent Scientific and Technological Paper Award by the Henan Province Office of Education (2021).

These accolades underscore his impactful research and its relevance to both academia and industry.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Liu has authored multiple peer-reviewed papers in SCI and EI indexed journals, reflecting the scientific merit and practical application of his research. His publication in Waste Management on flue gas recirculation and NOx emission control is especially noteworthy in the context of sustainable waste-to-energy practices. Moreover, his work influences not only fellow researchers but also policymakers and industry professionals seeking advanced environmental solutions. As a committed educator, he imparts knowledge through courses like Boiler Principle, Boiler Operation, and Clean Combustion and Pollutant Control. His teaching integrates the latest research findings, ensuring that students are prepared for real-world energy challenges.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Liu is poised to continue making substantial contributions to the fields of clean energy and environmental protection. His interdisciplinary approach, combining engineering thermophysics, environmental science, and applied technology, equips him to tackle emerging challenges such as carbon neutrality, smart power systems, and circular economy strategies for waste management. He is also likely to mentor the next generation of researchers, fostering innovation through student supervision, collaborative projects, and academic outreach. As climate concerns and energy demands rise globally, Dr. Liu’s expertise will remain critical in shaping sustainable technological pathways for the future.

📄 Publication Top Notes

Research Progress on the Occurrence Characteristics of AAEM Elements in Zhundong Coal

Author: W., Wang, Wei, X., Guo, Xinwei, X., Wu, Xiaojiang, … C., Fan, Cunjiang, L., Zhuo, Lanting

Journal: Dongli Gongcheng Xuebao /Journal of Chinese Society of Power Engineering

Year: 2025

The effect of air distribution on the characteristics of waste combustion and NO generation in a grate incinerator

Author:  J., Liu, Jun, Z., Xie, Zheng, B., Guo, Bingyu, … L., Bai, Li, J., Long, Jisheng

Journal: Journal of the Energy Institute .,

Year: 2024