Hao Jiang | Cryogenic Recycling Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hao Jiang | Cryogenic Recycling Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Senior Manager at Construction Industry Council, Hong Kong

Hao Jiang is a highly accomplished engineering leader and innovator in the construction industry, serving as President-elect of the ASCE Greater China Section. With an extensive portfolio of leadership roles, professional affiliations, and research achievements, he is recognized for advancing modular integrated construction, high-performance materials, and robotics applications in construction. As Senior Manager of Industry Development at the Construction Industry Council, a statutory body established by the Hong Kong government, he oversees the Construction Productivity Department, managing the R&D Fund, manpower forecasting, and technology implementation. His exceptional contributions have earned multiple prestigious awards for innovation, sustainability, and professional excellence.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Education

Hao Jiang holds a Bachelor of Engineering from Southeast University, a Master of Science from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and dual Master of Business Administration degrees from Tsinghua University and Cornell University. This combination of technical expertise and advanced business acumen has enabled him to approach construction engineering challenges with both innovation and strategic insight. His academic foundation bridges engineering principles, applied research, and managerial leadership, equipping him to design and implement industry-wide solutions. His education also reflects a global outlook, combining leading institutions in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and the United States, which has broadened his perspective on international engineering practices.

Experience

In his current role as Senior Manager of Industry Development at the Construction Industry Council, Ir JIANG leads initiatives that directly impact the future of Hong Kong’s construction sector. He manages the council’s Construction Productivity Department, oversees research funding allocation, drives manpower forecasting, and champions the adoption of advanced technologies such as robotics to enhance productivity and safety. Before joining the CIC, he served as a Research Fellow at the Chinese National Engineering Research Centre for Steel Construction (Hong Kong Branch) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where he advanced research on steel construction technologies. His professional journey also includes extensive involvement in key infrastructure and construction projects, demonstrating his ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges.

Research Focus

JIANG’s research interests center on modular integrated construction, high-performance materials, and cutting-edge construction technologies. He has contributed significantly to the integration of robotics into construction workflows, addressing industry needs for automation, efficiency, and safety enhancement. His work on modular construction has advanced prefabrication methodologies, improving project delivery speed and reducing environmental impact. In the area of high-performance materials, he has been involved in developing solutions that improve structural durability and sustainability. His efforts reflect a strong commitment to applying research outcomes to practical applications, bridging the gap between academic innovation and industry adoption.

Publication Top Note

Title: A meta-analysis of environmental impacts of building reuse and recycling
Authors: Bowen Zheng, Yang Yang, Albert Ping-chuen Chan, Hao Jiang, Zhikang Bao
Summary: This study synthesizes life cycle assessment (LCA) data to compare the environmental impacts of building reuse, recycling, and landfilling. Results show that reuse has substantially lower impacts than recycling, and recycling outperforms landfilling. Mass timber reuse and design-for-disassembly modular buildings perform especially well, with only 20–50% of the impacts of recycling. The authors recommend prioritizing reuse, then recycling, as sustainable waste management strategies in construction.

Conclusion

Hao Jiang is a distinguished engineering leader whose career blends technical expertise, research innovation, and strategic leadership. His work in modular integrated construction, high-performance materials, and robotics has positioned him at the forefront of modern construction technology advancement. Through his leadership roles, academic achievements, and industry contributions, he has significantly impacted both the Hong Kong construction sector and the global engineering community. His dedication to bridging research and industry, fostering sustainable practices, and embracing emerging technologies exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding award nominee. As ASCE Greater China Section President-elect, he continues to inspire innovation and set new benchmarks for excellence in the field of civil and structural engineering.

Farzad Habibi | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Farzad Habibi | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Researcher, Sahand University of Technology, Iran

Dr. Farzad Habibi is a materials scientist and engineer with an extensive background in joining metallurgy, surface engineering, and materials characterization. He currently serves as CEO of Fara Sakht Karan Azerbaijan Co., while maintaining key research and teaching roles at Sahand University of Technology. With over a decade of academic, industrial, and research experience, Dr. Habibi has contributed significantly to the development of innovative joining technologies and high-performance coatings. His expertise spans thermodynamic simulations, microstructural analysis, and advanced welding methods, positioning him as a leading figure in both academic and industrial materials engineering communities.

Professional Profile

ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Habibi earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Sahand University of Technology. His doctoral studies built upon a Master of Science in Welding Metallurgy and a Bachelor of Science degree in Materials Science and Engineering from Tabriz University. He began his academic journey with a High School Diploma in Mathematics and Physics, laying the foundation for his analytical and engineering skills.

Experience

Dr. Habibi has held diverse roles in academia and industry, reflecting his interdisciplinary proficiency he has been the CEO of Fara Sakht Karan Azerbaijan Co., where he oversees advanced materials solutions for industrial applications. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Sahand Nanolotus Co., and has been a lead researcher at Iran Mavad Co. His academic roles include laboratory assistant at Sahand University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Center and past teaching assistant positions. He has also worked in quality control and R&D management in automotive and heat treatment industries.

Research Focus

Dr. Habibi’s research centers on joining metallurgy, including brazing, soldering, and diffusion bonding techniques for dissimilar materials. He is also active in the development of electro-spark deposition (ESD) coatings and investigates the physical metallurgy of phase transformations and thermodynamics. His work extends into archaeometry and the analysis of ancient metallic artifacts. Current projects include the development of HEA coatings, interlayer engineering for tungsten carbide/steel joints, and electro-spark deposition of titanium- and zirconium-based coatings.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Habibi has received several professional recognitions for his contributions to materials science and engineering. He was honored by the Nano Headquarters for securing research funding and was named Best Reviewer by the Journal of Advanced Joining Processes (Elsevier). He also holds a patent related to the use of electro-spark deposition (ESD) for dissimilar material joining. Additionally, Dr. Habibi has led multiple industrial projects focused on wear-resistant coatings for major manufacturing companies.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Feasibility of Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) of AZ31 Lightweight Magnesium Alloy in Dielectric Fluids of Hydrocarbon Oil and Deionized Water
Authors: Saeed Asghari, Mohammad Reza Shabgard, Maghsoud Shalvandi, S. Abolfazl Roudehchi, Farzad Habibi
Journal: International Journal of Lightweight Materials and Manufacture
Summary: This research evaluates EDM machining of AZ31 magnesium alloy using hydrocarbon oil and deionized water as dielectric fluids. The study investigates machining efficiency, surface quality, and tool wear to assess the feasibility of EDM for lightweight magnesium alloys.

Title: Microstructural Evaluation and Mechanical Properties of WC-6%Co/AISI 1045 Steel Joints Brazed by Copper, Brass, and Ag-based Filler Metals: Selection of the Filler Material
Authors: Farzad Habibi, Amir Mostafapour, Karim Heydarpour
Journal: Journal of Advanced Joining Processes
Summary: The article compares copper, brass, and silver-based filler metals in brazing WC-6%Co to AISI 1045 steel. It focuses on microstructural changes and mechanical properties to determine the optimal filler for joint strength and durability.

Title: In-situ Formation of Ultra-hard Titanium-based Composite Coatings on Carbon Steel through Electro-Spark Deposition in Different Gas Media
Authors: Farzad Habibi, Ahad Samadi
Journal: Surface and Coatings Technology
Summary: Explores the influence of various gas atmospheres on electro-spark deposition of titanium-based composite coatings on carbon steel. The study examines coating hardness, phase composition, and microstructural characteristics.

Title: Microstructural Evolution During Low-temperature Brazing of WC-Co Cemented Carbide to AISI 4140 Steel Using a Silver-based Filler Alloy
Authors: Farzad Habibi, Ahad Samadi, Mohammad Nouri
Journal: International Journal of Refractory Metals and Hard Materials
Summary: Investigates the microstructural development and bonding mechanisms in low-temperature brazing of WC-Co cemented carbide to AISI 4140 steel with silver-based filler alloys, aiming to improve joint quality.

Title: Interfacial Reactions in Actively Brazed Cu-Al₂O₃ Composites and Copper Using a Newly Developed Cu-Sn-Ag-Ti Filler Alloy
Authors: Farzad Habibi, Ahad Samadi
Journal: Science and Technology of Welding and Joining
Summary: This study presents a novel Cu-Sn-Ag-Ti active filler alloy for brazing copper to Cu-Al₂O₃ composites. It examines interfacial reactions, phase formation, and joint integrity to enhance metal-ceramic joining techniques.

Conclusion

Dr. Farzad Habibi is a dedicated scientist whose multifaceted work in materials science bridges academic theory and industrial application. His innovations in joining technologies and surface engineering, combined with a strong publication record and commitment to education, make him a highly deserving nominee for distinction in materials science and engineering. Through continued research, leadership, and mentorship, Dr. Habibi contributes meaningfully to the advancement of advanced manufacturing and materials characterization in both national and international contexts.

 

Saidou Kinda | Environmental Engineering | Young Researcher Award

Mr. Saidou Kinda | Environmental Engineering | Young Researcher Award

Engineer, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Burkina Faso

Saidou Kinda is a dynamic and forward-thinking doctoral engineer from Burkina Faso, specializing in water and environmental engineering with a dual foundation in civil engineering. Currently pursuing his PhD at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, he also serves as Vice Commercial Advisor at the Turkish Embassy in Ouagadougou, bridging economic and research ties between Turkey and Burkina Faso. With a deep commitment to sustainable infrastructure and international development, Saidou combines technical expertise, global perspective, and multilingual fluency to contribute to innovative solutions in water management, environmental sustainability, and engineering design.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Saidou’s academic journey began at École Saint André de Basneré and continued through Lycée Privé Madina and Lycée Provincial de Kaya. From 2017 to 2022, he completed dual engineering programs in Water & Environmental Engineering and Civil Engineering at Çukurova University, Turkey. His academic excellence led him to Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, where he earned a Master’s in Industrial Wastewater Treatment (2022–2024) and is now pursuing a PhD in Water and Environmental Engineering. His education has focused on water treatment, dam design, and sustainable infrastructure for urban and rural environments.

🛠️ Professional Experience

Saidou has held a variety of engineering and advisory roles. At ARTAS, Turkey, he worked as a Project Engineer, contributing to wastewater treatment plant design and dam engineering projects like the Yedigöze Arch Dam. He interned at DSI (State Hydraulic Works) and the Municipality of Adana, engaging in water supply and urban sanitation systems. Currently, as Vice Commercial Advisor at the Turkish Embassy, he supports bilateral trade, project investment, and commercial cooperation between Turkey and Burkina Faso. He has also participated in key infrastructure projects in Ceyhan and Imamoglu, showcasing his capability in both design and implementation.

🔬 Research Interests

Saidou’s research is centered on wastewater treatment technologies, membrane bioreactors (MBR), climate change adaptation, hydraulic infrastructure, and metal pollution in soils. He focuses on optimizing biological treatment strategies for textile wastewater and improving recovery potentials of industrial water through innovative technologies. His doctoral studies expand upon nutrient management and reverse osmosis systems for African contexts, aiming for sustainable, cost-effective solutions to water scarcity and pollution.

📚 Publications Top Notes

Title: Pollution Indices Assessment of Metal Concentrations in Karabuk Soil Samples

Authors: Naim Sezgin, Saidou Kinda, Utku Emre Temelli, Naim Sezgin
Published: International Journal of Agriculture, Environment and Food Sciences
Summary:
This peer-reviewed journal article presents a comprehensive analysis of soil contamination levels in Karabuk, an industrial region in Turkey known for its steel production. Using various pollution indices such as the Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo), Enrichment Factor (EF), and Pollution Load Index (PLI).

Title: Conception de Barrage en Arc (Kemer Baraj Tasarımı)
Author: Saidou Kinda
Institution: Çukurova University, Faculty of Engineering
Type: Final Engineering Project / Graduation Thesis
Date: June 2022
Summary:
This engineering thesis by Saidou Kinda focuses on the complete structural and hydraulic design of an arch dam, taking the Yedigöze Dam in Turkey as a case study.

🔚 Conclusion

Saidou Kinda is a promising figure in the field of environmental engineering, blending academic rigor, technical competence, and international engagement. His multidisciplinary expertise, backed by professional experience and impactful research, positions him as a valuable contributor to the future of water and environmental sustainability in Africa and beyond. Through his leadership and cross-cultural collaboration, he embodies the ideals of innovation, resilience, and global citizenship.

Baoling Jia | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Baoling Jia | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer, Lanzhou University of Technology, China

Baoling Jia is a dedicated lecturer and PhD student at Lanzhou University of Technology, known for her innovative contributions to biomedical materials research. She specializes in the development and modeling of microneedle (MN) systems designed for enhanced transdermal drug delivery and biosensing. Through interdisciplinary research that bridges materials science and biomedical engineering, Jia is advancing medical technology with practical, patient-friendly solutions. Her work is characterized by precision, sustainability, and an emphasis on improving mechanical and biological performance through smart material design and fabrication.

Professional Profile

Education 🎓

Jia completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Materials Science and Engineering at Lanzhou University of Technology. She is currently pursuing her PhD at the same institution, where she continues to focus on biomedical material design, particularly UV-curable polymers and their use in medical applications. Her education has been rooted in the principles of polymer chemistry, mechanical modeling, and biomedical systems, forming a solid foundation for her cutting-edge microneedle research.

Experience 💼

Baoling Jia With a combined role as a university lecturer and a PhD researcher, Jia plays an active part in both academic instruction and scientific inquiry. She has participated in multiple interdisciplinary projects focusing on microneedle development for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Her experience includes hands-on work with photopolymerization, 3D printing, and the mechanical testing of polymer structures, equipping her with the technical depth needed to solve real-world medical material challenges. Jia is recognized for her collaborative spirit, frequently working with teams across materials science, mechanical engineering, and biomedicine.

Research Interests 🔬

Baoling Jia focuses on biomedical materials, particularly the design and fabrication of UV-curable polymer microneedles. Her research explores staggered microneedle structures for better skin penetration and comfort, along with biocompatibility and mechanical performance testing. She also applies 3D printing and photopolymerization techniques to develop scalable, minimally invasive transdermal drug delivery systems and biosensors aimed at improving long-term healthcare solutions.

Publications Top Note📄

  • Jia, Baoling; Xia, Tiandong; Xu, Yangtao; Li, Bei. Staggered Design of UV–Curable Polymer Microneedle Arrays with Increased Vertical Action Space. Polymers, 2025. (Open Access)
    Summary: This study presents a novel staggered architecture for UV-curable polymer microneedle arrays to enhance vertical action space. The design improves mechanical penetration efficiency and user comfort, offering potential for advanced transdermal delivery and biosensing technologies.

Conclusion 🏁

Baoling Jia is a promising early-career researcher whose contributions to biomedical materials are poised to make a lasting impact on healthcare technologies. Her work on staggered UV-curable microneedle systems represents a significant step forward in medical material design, blending innovation, efficiency, and patient-centered application. With a strong academic foundation, practical research experience, and a clear focus on solving real-world problems, Jia exemplifies the qualities of a forward-thinking biomedical engineer. Her work will continue to influence the future of non-invasive therapeutics and diagnostics, making her a highly suitable nominee for recognition and support in the field of biomedical research.

Tiandong Xia | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Tiandong Xia | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Lanzhou University of Technology, China

Professor Tiandong Xia is a leading academic and doctoral supervisor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Lanzhou University of Technology. With deep expertise in biomedical materials, he has built a career grounded in innovation and scientific inquiry. His research contributions span the synthesis, processing, and application of functional materials, with a focus on microneedle technology, biocompatibility, and electrochemical performance. Recognized for his collaborative and interdisciplinary approach, Professor Xia has published impactful research articles that bridge materials science and medical technology.

Professional Profile

Education 🎓

Professor Xia pursued his entire academic formation in the field of Materials Science and Engineering, completing his undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees with academic distinction. His doctoral work focused on functional materials for high-performance biomedical applications, establishing a foundation for his future career as a researcher and mentor. His educational background is marked by a commitment to both theoretical understanding and applied research, which continues to guide his scholarly pursuits today.

Experience 🏫

Over the years, Professor Xia has played an instrumental role in advancing materials science research at Lanzhou University of Technology. As a doctoral supervisor, he has mentored numerous postgraduate students, fostering a research culture of curiosity and precision. He is frequently involved in national and international research collaborations, contributing his expertise in biomaterials engineering to address complex challenges in healthcare technologies. His academic roles also include curriculum development, lab oversight, and participation in scientific committees focused on materials innovation.

Research Interests 🔬

Professor Xia’s research bridges materials science, bioengineering, and applied chemistry, with a focus on developing smart, safe, and effective materials for biomedical use. His key areas include microneedles for transdermal sensing and drug delivery, electrode and surface modification, oxidation resistance of metal alloys, and nano-structured coatings and biosensors. His work aims to advance minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic technologies that address real-world medical challenges.

Publications Top Notes📚

  • ia, Baoling; Xia, Tiandong; Wang, Xiaohui; Xu, Yangtao; Li, Bei. Investigation of biosensing properties in magnetron sputtered metallized UV-curable polymer microneedle electrodes. Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition, 2024.
    Summary: This study explores the fabrication and biosensing performance of UV-curable polymer microneedle electrodes metallized via magnetron sputtering. The work demonstrates promising electrochemical properties suitable for minimally invasive biosensor applications.

  • Zhang, Han; Gao, Yueyue; Qiao, Jisen; Xia, Tiandong. Effect of high temperature heat treatment on microstructure and mechanical properties of electrodeposited nickel. Jinshu Rechuli/Heat Treatment of Metals, 2023.
    Summary: This article investigates how high-temperature heat treatment affects the microstructure and mechanical behavior of electrodeposited nickel. Findings indicate that controlled heat treatment enhances grain growth and mechanical strength.

  • Jia, Baoling; Xia, Tiandong; Wang, Xiaohui; Xu, Yangtao; Guo, Zhenyu. Morphology design of polymer microneedle arrays: Key factors from the application perspective. Review Article, Year Not Specified.
    Summary: This review examines critical factors influencing the morphology of polymer microneedle arrays, such as shape, size, and structural design, with a focus on optimizing their functionality for transdermal drug delivery and biosensing applications.

  • Xie, Xiao; Wang, Xiaojun; Xia, Tiandong. Effects of Rare Earth Y on Oxidation Resistance of Cr20Ni80 Electrothermal Alloy at High Temperature. Tezhong Zhuzao Ji Youse Hejin/Special Casting and Nonferrous Alloys, 2022.
    Summary: The paper analyzes the impact of rare earth element yttrium on the high-temperature oxidation resistance of Cr20Ni80 electrothermal alloy. Results show that Y addition significantly enhances surface stability and oxidation resistance under thermal stress.

Conclusion 🏆

Professor Tiandong Xia has built a distinguished career in materials science, particularly in the development of biomedical materials that serve both clinical and industrial purposes. His innovative research on microneedle technologies and alloy modification has not only advanced academic knowledge but also opened new possibilities in non-invasive medical diagnostics and high-performance engineering applications. His commitment to excellence, mentorship, and collaborative research makes him a compelling candidate for any award recognizing contributions to science and technology.