Vahed Ghiasi | Renewable Energy | Pioneer Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Vahed Ghiasi | Renewable Energy | Pioneer Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Malayer university | Iran

Dr. Vahed Ghiasi is an accomplished civil and geotechnical engineer with a Ph.D. in Geotechnical and Geological Engineering from University Putra Malaysia (2012), where his research focused on the effects of weak rock geomechanical properties on tunnel stability. He currently serves as Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Civil and Architecture Engineering, Malayer University, Iran, with extensive experience in supervising graduate students, managing large-scale research projects, and contributing to both national and international engineering initiatives. His professional expertise encompasses tunnel engineering, soil-structure interaction, foundation engineering, advanced soil mechanics, and landslide hazard assessment, supported by practical work in seismic and earth dam engineering. Dr. Ghiasi has led numerous research projects, including international collaborations on landslide hazard mapping using neural networks and fuzzy logic, while publishing over 130 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals such as SN Applied Sciences, Results in Engineering, Geomechanics and Engineering, and Natural Hazards. He is also an active contributor to the global scientific community, serving on editorial boards for journals like SN Applied Sciences and Applied Engineering and Technology, and reviewing for more than 20 international journals. His research interests include geotechnical design, tunnel stability analysis, landslide risk assessment, soil improvement, and advanced numerical modeling techniques, utilizing software such as PLAXIS, PHASE 2 FEM, and FDM. Dr. Ghiasi’s professional involvement extends to memberships in prominent societies including SEAGS, IGS, ITA-AITES, ASCE, and IEM, and he has been recognized with awards such as the Most Outstanding Iranian Student in Malaysia (2011) and Superior Researcher of the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Malayer University (2019–2023). His work demonstrates a commitment to advancing geotechnical engineering knowledge, mentoring future engineers, and contributing to resilient infrastructure development. Dr. Ghiasi’s growing academic impact is reflected in 316 citations, 45 documents, and an h-index of 11, demonstrating his sustained influence in geotechnical engineering research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Safaei, M., Omar, H., Huat, B. K., Yousof, Z. B. M., & Ghiasi, V. (2011). Deterministic rainfall induced landslide approaches, advantage and limitation. Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 16, 1619–1650. Cited by 47

2. Mafian, S., Huat, B. B. K., & Ghiasi, V. (2009). Evaluation on root theories and root strength properties in slope stability. European Journal of Scientific Research, 30(4), 594–607. Cited by 43

3. Ghiasi, V., & Koushki, M. (2020). Numerical and artificial neural network analyses of ground surface settlement of tunnel in saturated soil. SN Applied Sciences, 2(5), 939. Cited by 42

4. Kazemian, S., Prasad, A., Huat, B. B. K., Ghiasi, V., & Ghareh, S. (2012). Effects of cement–sodium silicate system grout on tropical organic soils. Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering, 37(8), 2137–2148. Cited by 38

5. Safaei, M., Omar, H., Yousof, Z. B. M., & Ghiasi, V. (2010). Applying geospatial technology to landslide susceptibility assessment. Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 15(G), 677–696. Cited by 31

 

Ahmet Elbir | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ahmet Elbir | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Süleyman Demirel University | Turkey

Dr. Ahmet Elbır, Ph.D. in Energy Systems from Süleyman Demirel University (2021), is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in thermodynamic systems, renewable energy, and sustainable energy optimization. His educational background includes multiple degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Energy Systems Engineering, culminating in advanced research on transcritical CO₂ heat pumps and ground-source heat pump thermodynamics. Professionally, he serves as a Lecturer at Süleyman Demirel University’s Renewable Energy Research Center (YEKARUM), contributing to national and international research projects, including biogas reactor design and hybrid energy storage systems. His research interests encompass energy and exergy analysis, thermodynamic cycle optimization (Kalina, ORC, Brayton, and Rankine cycles), AI-assisted energy modeling, phase-change materials for energy storage, and sustainable cooling and heating technologies. Dr. Elbır possesses strong research skills in experimental and theoretical thermodynamic analysis, Python and AI-based simulation, fuzzy logic modeling, energy system optimization, and environmental impact assessment of industrial processes. His extensive publication record includes articles in top-tier journals such as Applied Thermal Engineering, Journal of Building Engineering, Environmental Progress & Sustainable Energy, and multiple international conference proceedings, alongside chapters in scientific books on renewable energy and thermodynamic systems. He has also contributed to editorial work at YEKARUM and actively mentors students in energy research projects. Recognized for his scientific contributions, Dr. Elbır has received accolades for innovative approaches in energy efficiency and sustainable system design. His leadership in research, academic service, and community engagement underscores his commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions and mentoring the next generation of engineers. Dr. Elbır’s growing academic impact is reflected in 12 citations, 18 documents, and an h-index of 2, demonstrating his sustained influence in energy systems and renewable energy research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Akarslan, K. F., Elbır, A., & Şahin, M. E. (2023). Wool drying process in heat-pump-assisted dryer by fuzzy logic modelling. Thermal Science, 27(4 Part B), 3043–3050. Cited by 6

2. Öztürk, M., Elbır, A., & Özek, N. (2011). Akdeniz bölgesine gelen güneş radyasyonunun ekserji analizi. In Proc. 6th International Advanced Technologies Symposium (IATS’11). Cited by 6

3. Öztürk, M., Elbır, A., Özek, N., & Yakut, A. K. (2011). Güneş hidrojen üretim metotlarının incelenmesi. 6th International Advanced Technologies Symposium (IATS’11), 16–18. Cited by 5

4. Elbır, A. (2010). Toprak kaynaklı ısı pompasının termodinamik analizi. Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü. Cited by 5

5. Elbır, A., Kodaloğlu, F. A., Üçgül, İ., & Şahin, M. E. (2022). Thermodynamic analysis of refrigerants used in ORC-VCC combined power systems for low temperature heat sources. Thermal Science, 26(4 Part A), 2855–2863. Cited by 4

Maaz Ahmad | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Maaz Ahmad | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Tashkent State University of Economics, Uzbekistan

Maaz Ahmad is an accomplished researcher and academic specializing in regional economics, environmental sustainability, renewable energy economics, and global value chain dynamics. His work focuses on the interconnections between technological innovation, economic growth, and environmental policy, with a special emphasis on the Belt and Road Initiative and the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor. He has contributed extensively to policy-relevant research through publications in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and through invited talks at leading universities and think tanks. His academic contributions are complemented by active engagement in international collaborations, enabling cross-border exchange of knowledge and solutions. As a corresponding author on numerous studies, he has led multidisciplinary research teams addressing pressing issues in energy efficiency, climate change, and inclusive development. Maaz combines scholarly depth with a commitment to practical application, making his work highly relevant to both academia and policymakers. His career trajectory reflects a strong balance between research excellence, teaching, and public engagement.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Education

Maaz Ahmad holds a Ph.D. in Regional Economics from Wuhan University, where his doctoral research explored the impact of global value chain participation on manufacturing structures within the Belt and Road Initiative context. His master’s degree in Economics from Islamia College University, Peshawar, examined the Ehrlich–Commoner environmental impact framework in Pakistan, reflecting his early interest in environmental economics. He completed his bachelor’s degree in Economics from the International Islamic University Islamabad, acquiring a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis. This academic journey equipped him with expertise in economic modeling, sustainability assessment, and global trade analysis. His educational background blends a deep understanding of theoretical frameworks with applied research skills. Through advanced training and a strong publication record, he has developed the analytical capacity to address complex economic-environmental interactions, positioning him as a scholar capable of contributing meaningfully to both national and international research agendas.

Experience

Maaz Ahmad’s professional experience spans teaching, research, and policy engagement. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the Tashkent State University of Economics, where he teaches research methods and skills to master’s students. His prior experience includes lecturing in macroeconomics, international economics, and public finance at the Government Degree College Hayatabad and the Post-Graduate Government Degree College Dargai. He has also worked as an independent researcher at the Tashkent State University of Economics, engaging in international research collaborations and contributing to policy-relevant studies. Beyond academia, Maaz has been a sought-after panelist and invited speaker at major conferences and universities, delivering talks on CPEC 2.0, industrialization, and regional integration. His career reflects a combination of rigorous academic teaching, impactful research leadership, and active involvement in public discourse, demonstrating his ability to bridge theoretical research with real-world economic and sustainability challenges at both regional and global levels.

Research Interest

Maaz Ahmad’s research interests lie at the intersection of economics, sustainability, and technological innovation. He focuses on regional economic integration, renewable energy economics, green innovation, energy efficiency, and the environmental implications of industrial development. His work often explores the policy and economic impacts of initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor. He is particularly interested in how technological advancements, renewable energy adoption, and governance structures influence sustainable growth and environmental quality. Maaz’s research also extends to studying the dynamics of global value chains, climate change mitigation strategies, and inclusive economic development. By integrating quantitative economic modeling with policy-oriented analysis, he addresses complex challenges faced by both developed and developing nations. His interdisciplinary approach combines environmental science, economic theory, and international trade analysis, allowing him to contribute to the global discourse on sustainable development, low-carbon transitions, and equitable economic transformation.

Awards and Honors

Maaz Ahmad has been recognized for his scholarly excellence and contributions to sustainability and regional economic policy through various academic and professional honors. His selection as an invited panelist and guest speaker at prominent universities and policy institutions reflects his standing as a thought leader in his field. These speaking engagements, focusing on topics such as CPEC 2.0, renewable energy, and industrial development, highlight his expertise and the trust placed in him by academic and policy communities. He has received acknowledgment for his role as a corresponding author in numerous high-impact publications, demonstrating leadership in collaborative research projects. His professional engagements have provided platforms to influence both scholarly discourse and policymaking. Through his active participation in academic dialogues, Maaz has built a reputation for delivering insightful, evidence-based perspectives that advance both research and practice in sustainable economic development and environmental policy formulation.

Research Skills

Maaz Ahmad possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that enable him to conduct rigorous and impactful studies. His expertise includes econometric modeling, data analysis, policy evaluation, and sustainability assessment. Proficient in quantitative and qualitative methodologies, he applies advanced statistical tools to analyze relationships between economic growth, environmental sustainability, and technological innovation. His skills extend to drafting and managing collaborative research projects, often serving as the lead or corresponding author. Maaz has a strong background in academic writing, ensuring his research meets the standards of high-impact, peer-reviewed journals. He is adept at synthesizing complex datasets from international sources, conducting comparative cross-country studies, and integrating findings into actionable policy recommendations. Additionally, his teaching experience has strengthened his ability to communicate complex concepts effectively, fostering capacity building among students and junior researchers. His research capabilities are complemented by a global network of collaborators, enhancing the scope and influence of his academic contributions.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Energy efficiency, technological innovation, and financial development-based EKC premise: Fresh asymmetric insights from developing Asian regions
Authors: Maaz Ahmad, Muhammad Eid Balbaa, Aziz Zikriyoev, Fazliddin Nasriddinov, Zebo Kuldasheva
Year: 2024

Title: Renewable energy consumption towards environmental sustainability: Evidence of EKC hypothesis in the framework of economic growth and CO₂ emissions
Authors: Maaz Ahmad
Year: 2022

Title: Is achieving environmental sustainability dependent on information communication technology and globalization? Evidence from selected OECD countries
Authors: Maaz Ahmad, Zebo Kuldasheva, Fazliddin Nasriddinov, Muhammad Eid Balbaa, Muhammad Fahlevi
Year: 2023

Title: The impact of trade, environmental degradation and governance on renewable energy consumption: Evidence from selected ASEAN countries
Authors: Yongming Huang, Maaz Ahmad, Sher Ali
Year: 2022

Title: Does eco-innovation promote cleaner energy? Analyzing the role of energy price and human capital
Authors: Yongming Huang, Maaz Ahmad, Sher Ali, Dervis Kirikkaleli
Year: 2022

Conclusion

Dr. Maaz Ahmad’s career demonstrates a rare blend of rigorous academic research, impactful international collaborations, and policy-oriented engagement. His substantial contributions to renewable energy economics, environmental policy, and regional economic integration directly address some of the most pressing global challenges. With a proven track record of high-quality research, leadership in collaborative projects, and dedication to societal progress, he is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His continued focus on sustainability, innovation, and policy-relevant research ensures that his future work will further advance both academic knowledge and practical solutions for economic and environmental development.