Hamed Pahlavani | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hamed Pahlavani | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

CFD & Process Engineer from Dal Engineering Group, Turkey

Dr. Hamed Pahlavani is a distinguished Mechanical Engineer and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) specialist with expertise spanning biomedical simulations, reactive multiphase flows, and energy system optimization. Currently serving as a Process & CFD Engineer at Dal Engineering Group in Istanbul, Turkey, he combines high-level academic research with real-world industrial applications. Dr. Pahlavani’s work integrates computational modeling of blood flow dynamics in cerebral aneurysms with fluid-structure interaction (FSI) techniques, as well as combustion modeling for alternative fuels in large-scale energy systems. With a robust foundation in OpenFOAM and other numerical tools, he has developed custom solvers and predictive models, making significant contributions to cardiovascular modeling, energy optimization, and environmental engineering. His innovative approaches and research outputs are featured in several peer-reviewed journals. In addition to his scientific contributions, he has been an active participant in industry-sponsored and TÜBİTAK-funded projects. His cross-disciplinary knowledge, proficiency in simulation platforms, and commitment to solving critical engineering challenges demonstrate both academic and practical excellence. Fluent in English, Turkish, and Persian, Dr. Pahlavani has also presented his work internationally, earning recognition within both academia and industry. His combination of deep technical acumen, innovative thinking, and collaborative mindset makes him a standout candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Hamed Pahlavani holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Istanbul Technical University, Turkey, awarded in January 2022. His doctoral dissertation, titled “Modeling of Two-Phase Blood Flow and Fluid-Structure Interactions in Cerebral Aneurysms”, focused on applying advanced CFD techniques and FSI to model blood rheology and arterial wall deformation. He utilized state-of-the-art simulation tools such as OpenFOAM, CALCULIX, and preCICE, running high-performance computing (HPC) environments to address complex, patient-specific geometries. Prior to this, he completed a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the same institution in 2015. His M.Sc. thesis involved the design and simulation of a refrigerator cabinet based on the solidification process of polyurethane foam, emphasizing multiphase reactive flows and chemical kinetics using ANSYS Fluent. Dr. Pahlavani began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree from Azad University of Khoy, Iran, in 2012, laying a strong foundation in classical mechanical engineering principles. His educational background reflects a consistent trajectory of excellence, with progressive specialization in simulation-based design, energy systems, and biomedical engineering. The combination of solid academic preparation and advanced computational modeling skills has positioned him to tackle both fundamental and applied engineering problems across multiple sectors.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hamed Pahlavani has accumulated valuable professional experience across both industrial and academic domains. Since November 2023, he has been working as a Process & CFD Engineer at Dal Engineering Group in Istanbul, where he leads simulation projects focused on the combustion of alternative fuels and calcination processes in cement calciners. He has applied OpenFOAM’s Euler–Lagrange framework to model solid fuel behavior, reaction kinetics, and pollutant formation. He also performs 1D heat and mass balance modeling to support plant optimization efforts and has participated in field measurements to validate simulation outputs with real-world data. Prior to this, from October 2021 to May 2023, Dr. Pahlavani served as a CFD, Combustion, and Thermal Systems Engineer at Turaş GAS A.Ş., where he focused on improving domestic gas burner performance using CFD tools, achieving notable reductions in emissions and increases in thermal efficiency. His earlier engagements included roles in academic projects sponsored by TÜBİTAK and the Turkish Ministry of Industry. These roles required him to blend research and development with engineering applications, often collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. His professional record illustrates his capacity to translate complex simulation data into actionable outcomes for environmental and industrial improvements.

Research Interests

Dr. Pahlavani’s research interests lie at the intersection of computational modeling, thermal-fluid sciences, and biomedical engineering. A central theme in his research is Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), particularly applied to multiphase and turbulent reactive flows, combustion systems, and fluid-structure interactions (FSI). His work on alternative fuel combustion explores the behavior of solid fuels such as TDF, rubber, SRF, and petcoke, focusing on processes like drying, devolatilization, and char oxidation using custom reaction models. In the biomedical field, he specializes in non-Newtonian blood flow modeling and its interactions with arterial structures, enabling in-depth investigations of cerebral aneurysms, thrombosis risks, and blood rheology using advanced simulation techniques. Additional interests include optimization of energy systems, gas-solid interactions, phase change modeling, and biomedical flow simulations in patient-specific geometries. His focus is both analytical and practical, using computational methods to simulate real-world behavior in mechanical systems, energy conversion units, and biological tissues. The cross-domain applicability of his research makes it highly relevant to healthcare innovation, renewable energy development, and environmental sustainability. Dr. Pahlavani’s ongoing work continues to address critical challenges in these fields through innovative simulation-based methodologies.

Research Skills

Dr. Pahlavani possesses an extensive array of research and technical skills that position him at the forefront of simulation-based engineering. He is highly proficient in OpenFOAM, an open-source CFD platform where he develops and customizes solvers for turbulent and multiphase flows, including complex chemical reactions and phase transitions. He has utilized CALCULIX for structural analysis and preCICE for coupling fluid and solid domains, enabling sophisticated fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulations. His programming capabilities include C++ and Python, allowing him to tailor numerical models and automate simulation workflows. Additionally, he is experienced with ANSYS Fluent, ICEM CFD, Tecplot, Paraview, and CAD tools such as CATIA v5 and SolidWorks. These tools have been critical in simulating complex systems ranging from domestic gas burners to cement calciners and blood flow in cerebral arteries. His ability to integrate 1D process modeling with full-scale CFD simulations enhances his capacity for system-wide energy optimization and emissions reduction. Dr. Pahlavani also possesses strong data validation skills, conducting on-site measurements to ensure simulation accuracy. His blend of coding expertise, engineering judgment, and validation techniques reflects a well-rounded research skill set with high translational value.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Hamed Pahlavani has received notable awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to computational modeling and engineering innovation. He served as the Principal Researcher for a TÜBİTAK-funded project titled “Computational Modelling of Deep Vein Thrombosis” (Project No. 117M430), which involved simulating thrombus formation using CFD-FSI coupling techniques in patient-specific geometries. This project not only demonstrated his academic leadership but also showcased the medical relevance of his research. He also contributed significantly to an industry-sponsored project titled “CFD Modeling of Reaction and Injection Molding of Polyurethane Foam in Refrigerators”, supported by the Ministry of Industry and Arçelik Inc. (Project No. 01213.STZ.2012-1). These honors reflect his capacity to attract funding and execute impactful projects that bridge science and industry. In addition to research awards, Dr. Pahlavani’s technical papers and conference presentations have received recognition at scientific meetings, further validating the quality and relevance of his work. His demonstrated success in securing competitive funding, combined with strong industry collaboration, underlines his innovative approach to solving engineering challenges and his potential for continued leadership in computational mechanics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Hamed Pahlavani exemplifies a modern, research-driven mechanical engineer with an exceptional portfolio that blends academic rigor with industrial relevance. His contributions span diverse domains, from biomedical flow simulations to advanced combustion modeling and energy system optimization. With a Ph.D. from Istanbul Technical University, multiple peer-reviewed publications, and hands-on experience in both experimental validation and computational design, he brings a rare depth of understanding to complex fluid dynamics and multiphysics systems. His leadership in TÜBİTAK- and industry-funded projects, combined with technical mastery of tools such as OpenFOAM, preCICE, and CALCULIX, further reinforces his excellence in research execution and impact delivery. Dr. Pahlavani’s work not only pushes the frontiers of CFD and biomedical engineering but also contributes significantly to sustainability efforts by improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions in industrial systems. His multilingual proficiency and international collaborations position him as a globally relevant researcher capable of addressing multidisciplinary challenges. Based on his accomplishments and forward-looking research agenda, Dr. Pahlavani is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His innovative thinking, problem-solving skills, and dedication to societal advancement through engineering research mark him as a leader of the future.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Effect of red blood cell concentration on the blood flow in patient-specific aneurysms
    2025 | Pahlavani, H.; Ozdemir, I.B.
  2. Interactions between non-Newtonian blood flow and deformable walls of a patient-specific aneurysm
    2025 | H. Pahlavani; I.B. Ozdemir
  3. Neural network predictive models to determine the effect of blood composition on the patient-specific aneurysm
    2023 | Quadros, J.D.; Pahlavani, H.; Ozdemir, I.B.; Mogul, Y.I.
  4. CFD models for aneurysm analyses and their use in identifying thrombosis formation and risk assessment
    2022 | Pahlavani, H.; Ozdemir, I.B.; Yildirim, D.
  5. Effects of forebody geometry on side forces on a cylindrical afterbody at high angles of attack
    2020 | Serdaroglu Timucin; Pahlavani Hamed; Ozdemir I. Bedii
  6. Effects of air vents on the flow of reacting polyurethane foam in a refrigerator cavity
    2018 | Özdemir, İ.B.; Pahlavani, H.

Degefu Dogiso | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Degefu Dogiso | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

PhD candidate from Hawassa University, Ethiopia

Degefu Dogiso is an emerging researcher in the field of Agricultural Engineering, with a strong focus on soil and water conservation. An Ethiopian national, he has built a solid academic and professional foundation in environmental and watershed management. Currently pursuing his PhD at Hawassa University Institute of Technology, he demonstrates deep commitment to research that addresses critical environmental challenges, including soil erosion, climate change impacts, and sustainable land use. Degefu has published peer-reviewed articles in reputable journals such as Land Degradation & Development and Agrosystem, Geoscience and Environment, showcasing his ability to contribute meaningful scientific insights. His technical proficiency spans across advanced modeling tools like SWAT and InVEST-SDR, GIS applications, and machine learning for environmental analysis. Additionally, his practical experience in governmental and conservation roles strengthens his applied understanding of the field. Degefu’s research integrates technology, field knowledge, and policy application, reflecting a well-rounded profile suitable for academic and practical impact. His career trajectory, marked by consistent growth and relevance, positions him as a promising candidate for future academic honors and research leadership. His dedication to both knowledge generation and environmental sustainability underpins a scholarly path rooted in impact, innovation, and responsibility.

Professional Profile

Education

Degefu Dogiso has built a robust academic foundation in the field of soil and water conservation through a progressive and focused educational journey. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Agricultural Engineering, specializing in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, at the Hawassa University Institute of Technology. His doctoral research emphasizes the modeling of soil erosion and the impact of climate change on natural resources, showcasing a research direction with high environmental relevance. Prior to his PhD, Degefu earned a Master of Science (MSc) in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering from the same institution, where he cultivated expertise in hydrological modeling, conservation practices, and sustainable watershed management. His academic roots trace back to his undergraduate studies at the Hawassa University Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources, where he completed his Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Soil Resources and Watershed Management. Each phase of his academic path reflects a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and practical solutions in environmental resource management. Through these rigorous academic programs, he has developed a deep theoretical understanding and practical skill set that now support his growing contributions to scientific literature and environmental policy. His educational trajectory reinforces his credibility as a research-oriented professional.

Professional Experience

Degefu Dogiso brings significant professional experience that complements his academic background, highlighting his ability to translate research into action. Over the span of eight years, he has served in key roles that demonstrate leadership, technical expertise, and community engagement. For five years, he worked as a Soil and Water Conservation Expert, where he was responsible for implementing conservation strategies, conducting erosion assessments, and advising on sustainable land management practices. This role involved hands-on project management and provided him with critical insights into the ecological and social dynamics of conservation in Ethiopia. Following this, Degefu advanced to the position of Agricultural Office Head for three years. In this role, he oversaw agricultural development projects, coordinated with stakeholders, and led initiatives focused on soil and water conservation across regional agricultural zones. His leadership helped bridge policy with practice and ensured the effective implementation of environmentally responsible agricultural strategies. These experiences have equipped him with a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities in soil and water resource management. His professional journey demonstrates not only a commitment to environmental stewardship but also the capacity to lead, implement, and innovate within both technical and administrative frameworks.

Research Interests

Degefu Dogiso’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental science, engineering, and sustainable land management. His primary focus is on soil erosion modeling and conservation strategies, a field critical to mitigating land degradation and maintaining agricultural productivity. He is deeply engaged in examining the impacts of land use and land cover change (LULCC) on soil and water resources, particularly in ecologically sensitive and heavily farmed regions of Ethiopia. His interests also extend to assessing the impacts of climate change on soil and water systems, an area with growing urgency due to shifting rainfall patterns and increasing vulnerability in the Global South. Hydrological modeling and watershed management form another core area of his research, as he seeks to understand and optimize water resource distribution within complex ecological systems. Additionally, Degefu is passionate about applying remote sensing and GIS technologies in environmental monitoring, combining spatial data analysis with modern computing tools to inform conservation strategies. His research interests are not only scientifically relevant but also have practical implications for environmental planning and agricultural resilience. This wide-ranging, yet interconnected, portfolio reflects a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to tackling contemporary environmental challenges.

Research Skills

Degefu Dogiso possesses a robust set of research skills that equip him to tackle complex environmental and agricultural challenges with precision and innovation. He is proficient in soil erosion modeling using advanced tools such as USLE, RUSLE, SWAT, and InVEST-SDR, which allow for detailed simulations and analysis of erosion patterns under various land use and climate scenarios. Additionally, he has experience with Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA), which enhances the accuracy of land classification and landscape interpretation. His skill set also includes climate change impact assessment, particularly using the CMIP6 model suite, which enables him to analyze future climate trends and their implications on soil and water systems. In the realm of geospatial analysis, Degefu is highly skilled in GIS and remote sensing platforms, including Google Earth Engine, ArcGIS, and ERDAS, tools essential for environmental monitoring and decision-making. He complements his spatial and modeling expertise with strong abilities in data analysis and visualization, using programming languages like Python and R, alongside traditional tools like Excel. Furthermore, his application of machine learning in land use and land cover classification demonstrates a commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into his research. These combined skills make him a versatile and capable researcher.

Awards and Honors

While specific formal awards or honors are not listed in Degefu Dogiso’s curriculum vitae, his academic and professional achievements suggest a strong trajectory toward future recognition. His publication of peer-reviewed research in respected journals such as Land Degradation & Development and Agrosystem, Geoscience and Environment is itself a significant academic accomplishment, often regarded as a marker of excellence in research communities. In addition, his selection and continued progress as a PhD candidate at Hawassa University Institute of Technology reflect the institutional recognition of his research potential and technical competence. His leadership as an Agricultural Office Head further implies a level of trust and respect within his professional sphere, particularly in overseeing large-scale conservation and agricultural initiatives. Moreover, his ability to publish internationally relevant research while engaging in on-the-ground conservation work distinguishes him among his peers. As he completes his PhD and expands his academic output, Degefu is well-positioned to receive formal accolades, research grants, and conference invitations. Continued contributions to interdisciplinary research and international collaboration will likely bring him closer to notable awards in soil and water conservation, climate change research, and environmental engineering.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Degefu Dogiso is a dedicated and forward-thinking researcher whose work bridges science, technology, and environmental sustainability. With a solid academic background in soil and water conservation, ongoing PhD research, and years of field experience, he has developed a comprehensive understanding of ecological systems and sustainable land management. His skill set spans critical tools and methodologies, from erosion modeling and hydrological simulation to remote sensing and machine learning-based analysis. His recent publications in reputable international journals affirm his capacity for high-quality research and his commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges in Ethiopia and beyond. While he is still in the early stages of his academic career, Degefu has laid a strong foundation for future scholarly and professional success. Continued growth in international collaboration, diversified research output, and completion of his doctoral studies will further enhance his qualifications for top-tier academic awards. As such, Degefu Dogiso not only demonstrates potential for recognition as a leading researcher but also embodies the values of applied science, community engagement, and environmental responsibility that are crucial in addressing the global challenges of our time.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Assessment of soil erosion and sedimentation dynamics in the Rift Valley Lakes Basin, Ethiopia
    Authors: Degefu Dogiso, Alemayehu Muluneh, Abiot Ketema
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: Soil Erosion Responses to CMIP6 Climate Scenarios and Land Cover Changes in the Gidabo Watershed, Ethiopia: Implications for Sustainable Watershed Management
    Authors: Degefu Dogiso, Alemayehu Muluneh, Abiot Ketema
    Year: 2025

  3. Title: Soil Erosion Responses to CMIP6 Climate Scenarios and Land Cover Changes in the Gidabo Watershed, Ethiopia: Implications for Sustainable Watershed Management
    Author: Degefu Dogiso
    Year: 2025

  4. Title: Assessment of soil erosion and sedimentation dynamics in the Rift Valley Lakes Basin, Ethiopia
    Author: Degefu Dogiso
    Year: 2025

Hulya Sen Arslan | Engineering | Women Researcher Award

​Assist. Prof. Dr. Hulya Sen Arslan | Engineering | Women Researcher Award

KARAMANOĞLU MEHMETBEY UNIVERCITY, Turkey

Dr. Hülya Şen Arslan is a distinguished academic specializing in Food Engineering, with a focus on functional foods, food chemistry, and food microbiology. She is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Food Engineering at Karamanoğlu Mehmetbey University. Dr. Arslan has an extensive educational background, having completed her undergraduate studies at Selçuk University, followed by a master’s degree at Erciyes University, and a doctorate at Selçuk University. Her research interests are deeply rooted in food sciences, particularly in the development and analysis of functional foods and the chemical and microbiological aspects of food products. Throughout her career, Dr. Arslan has contributed to the academic community with several publications and has actively participated in peer review processes. Her dedication to research and education in the field of food engineering underscores her commitment to advancing knowledge and promoting innovation in food science.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Hülya Şen Arslan’s academic journey commenced with a Bachelor of Science degree from Selçuk University’s Faculty of Agriculture, where she studied from 2009 to 2014. She then pursued a Master of Science in the Institute of Science at Erciyes University between 2014 and 2017. Her doctoral studies were conducted at Selçuk University’s Institute of Science from 2018 to 2022. This comprehensive educational background has provided Dr. Arslan with a solid foundation in agricultural and food sciences, equipping her with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in her field.

Professional Experience

Currently, Dr. Hülya Şen Arslan holds the position of Assistant Professor in the Department of Food Engineering at Karamanoğlu Mehmetbey University. In this role, she is responsible for teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, mentoring students, and conducting research in her areas of expertise. Her professional experience is marked by a commitment to academic excellence and a dedication to advancing the field of food engineering through both education and research.

Research Interests

Dr. Arslan’s research interests encompass several critical areas within food sciences. She focuses on functional foods, exploring how bioactive components can enhance health benefits. Her work in food chemistry involves analyzing the molecular composition and properties of food substances, while her studies in food microbiology examine the role of microorganisms in food production, preservation, and safety. These research pursuits aim to contribute to the development of healthier and safer food products.

Research Skills

With a robust background in food sciences, Dr. Arslan possesses a diverse set of research skills. She is proficient in laboratory techniques pertinent to food chemistry and microbiology, including chromatographic and spectroscopic methods for analyzing food components, as well as microbiological assays for detecting and characterizing foodborne pathogens. Additionally, her expertise extends to the design and implementation of studies related to functional foods, encompassing both the development of novel food products and the assessment of their health impacts.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors have not been detailed, Dr. Arslan’s contributions to the field of food engineering are evident through her active participation in research and academia. Her publications and involvement in peer review activities reflect a recognition of her expertise and dedication to advancing knowledge in food sciences.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Hülya Şen Arslan is a dedicated academic and researcher in the field of food engineering. Her comprehensive education and professional experience have enabled her to contribute significantly to the understanding and development of functional foods, food chemistry, and food microbiology. Through her teaching, research, and service to the academic community, Dr. Arslan continues to play a vital role in advancing the science of food and promoting innovations that enhance food quality and safety.

Publications Top Notes​

  • Title: Simultaneous extraction of phenolics and essential oil from peppermint by pressurized hot water extraction
    Authors: M. Cam, E. Yüksel, H. Alaşalvar, B. Başyiğit, H. Şen, M. Yılmaztekin, et al.
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 34

  • Title: Antioxidant and chemical effects of propolis, sage (Salvia officinalis L.), and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill) ethanolic extracts on chicken sausages
    Authors: S. Yerlikaya, H. Şen Arslan
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of peach leaf extract prepared by air and microwave drying
    Authors: H. Şen Arslan, A. Cabi, S. Yerlikaya, C. Sariçoban
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 8

  • Title: Comparison some microbiological and physicochemical properties of freeze dryed and spray dryed milk powder
    Authors: S. Yerlikaya, H. Ş. Arslan
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 8*

  • Title: Effect of ultrasound and microwave pretreatments on some bioactive properties of beef protein hydrolysates
    Authors: H. Şen Arslan, C. Sariçoban
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 7

  • Title: Use of fruits and vegetables in meat and meat products in terms of dietary fiber
    Authors: H. Şen Arslan, C. Sariçoban, S. Yerlikaya
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Effects of various plant parts on storage stability and colour parameters of beef extracts
    Authors: B. A. Oğuz, C. Sarıçoban, H. Şen Arslan
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Ultrason destekli elma atık özütlerinin bazı biyoaktif özellikleri
    Authors: H. Ş. Arslan
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 3*

  • Title: Karaman İl Merkezinde Yaşayan Halkın Bilinçli Gıda Tüketim Derecesinin Araştırılması
    Authors: S. Yerlikaya, Ş. N. Karaman, S. Tuna, H. Ş. Arslan
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 3

  • Title: Increased reactive carboxyl and free alfa-amino groups from fish type I collagen peptides by Alcalase® hydrolysis exhibit higher antibacterial and antioxidant …
    Authors: S. Yasar, H. S. Arslan, K. Akgul
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

Atiqur Rahman | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Atiqur Rahman | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

PhD Researcher from University of Bolton, United Kingdom

Md Atiqur Rahman is a passionate aerospace engineering professional with a rich background in both academia and research. Currently serving as an Engineering Lecturer at Blackpool & The Fylde College in the UK, he also pursues a Ph.D. at the University of Bolton, focusing on sustainable composite materials for aerospace applications. With over nine years of experience in aeronautical education, his expertise spans curriculum development, student mentorship, assessment, and instructional leadership. He has taught at multiple institutions including Preston College, University of Bolton, and Cambrian International College of Aviation. His research is deeply rooted in innovation, particularly in the area of natural fiber-reinforced composites, with a specific emphasis on Borassus flabellifer (palmyra palm) husk fibers. Rahman has published six research articles and actively participates in academic conferences and seminars. Known for his technical abilities and practical knowledge, he integrates tools like Ansys, SolidWorks, and Matlab in both research and teaching. Awarded Best Lecturer in 2022 and a mentor to an award-winning student in 2021, he exemplifies academic dedication. Md Rahman is committed to advancing aerospace engineering through sustainable innovations while nurturing student growth in higher education. His profile reflects a balance of scholarly excellence, practical engineering acumen, and a deep commitment to teaching.

Professional Profile

Education

Md Atiqur Rahman has pursued a solid academic trajectory in aerospace and mechanical engineering. He is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program at the University of Bolton, United Kingdom, where his research centers on the development of natural fiber-based composite materials for aerospace applications. This research is both timely and impactful, aligning with global movements toward sustainable aviation technology. Concurrently, he completed a Master of Philosophy (MPhil R2) in Mechanical Engineering at the same institution between July 2022 and November 2024, further sharpening his expertise in advanced material science and structural mechanics. His academic foundation began with a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Hertfordshire, UK, which he completed in 2012. The rigorous curriculum provided him with strong fundamentals in aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and aerospace structures. Throughout his educational journey, Md Rahman has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, integrating theory with hands-on research and software simulation. His academic path underscores a clear focus on applied engineering, sustainability, and innovation. This robust combination of qualifications positions him well for continued leadership in both academia and the aerospace research community, particularly in the development and application of bio-composites and eco-friendly engineering solutions.

Professional Experience

Md Atiqur Rahman has accumulated a diverse and extensive professional background in engineering education, spanning over nine years across the UK and Bangladesh. He currently serves as an Engineering Lecturer at Blackpool & The Fylde College, where he teaches and manages students up to Level 6, designs course materials, assesses learners, and supports curriculum alignment with Lancaster University and employer standards. Previously, he worked at Preston College, teaching aeronautical engineering to students in BTEC Pearson, City & Guilds, and EAL programs. At the University of Bolton, he served as a variable-hours lecturer, contributing to module delivery, exam preparation, and student guidance. In Bangladesh, Rahman held academic and leadership roles at Cambrian International College of Aviation and United College of Aviation, Science & Management. At Cambrian, he also acted as Internal Quality Assurer (IQA), leading BTEC curriculum development and internal training for faculty. Across all institutions, he has shown excellence in teaching, curriculum design, academic support, and student engagement. His ability to adapt his instruction based on learner capabilities has significantly enhanced academic outcomes. Rahman’s teaching is enriched by his research pursuits and practical skills, creating a well-rounded, impactful educational approach that bridges theory, practice, and innovation.

Research Interests

Md Atiqur Rahman’s research interests are centered around sustainable and advanced materials for aerospace applications. His current Ph.D. work at the University of Bolton explores the development and characterization of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites, with a particular focus on Borassus flabellifer (palmyra palm) husk fibers. He investigates their physical, thermal, mechanical, and dynamic properties to evaluate their viability as lightweight, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional aerospace materials. His broader research interest encompasses aerodynamics, structural mechanics, hypersonic flight technologies, and bio-composite development. By aligning material science with aerospace engineering, Rahman seeks to address the increasing demand for sustainability in aviation. He is particularly drawn to the lifecycle assessment of natural fibers and their transformation through alkali treatments, aiming to enhance their bonding, thermal stability, and mechanical resilience. His work has practical implications for aircraft manufacturing, structural component design, and green engineering practices. He also maintains an interest in the pedagogical methods for engineering education and how research can be translated into real-world classroom application. This multi-dimensional research approach not only contributes to the scientific community but also supports the global push for environmentally responsible aerospace solutions through academic innovation and practical application.

Research Skills

Md Atiqur Rahman possesses a well-rounded and technically proficient set of research skills that support his specialization in material science and aerospace engineering. He is highly skilled in experimental research methodologies, particularly in characterizing bio-composite materials. His hands-on expertise includes the use of advanced lab instruments such as TA Instruments (TGA, DSC, DMA) for thermal analysis, Instron for tensile and flexural testing, and FTIR spectroscopy for chemical characterization. He is also proficient in density and water uptake measurements using pycnometers and ovens, and in the preparation of composite materials through hand lay-up techniques. Rahman complements his experimental skills with strong computational abilities, using tools like Ansys for finite element analysis, SolidWorks and Fusion 360 for design modeling, and Matlab for mathematical modeling and simulations. He applies these tools to optimize material properties and validate experimental outcomes. In addition, he demonstrates strong academic writing and data interpretation skills, having authored several scientific articles. His research workflow also reflects a robust understanding of ethics, literature review, statistical analysis, and research dissemination. These combined skills allow him to carry out comprehensive investigations in aerospace material development and communicate findings effectively to both academic and industry audiences.

Awards and Honors

Md Atiqur Rahman has earned notable recognition for his excellence in both teaching and research throughout his academic career. One of his most distinguished accolades is the Best Lecturer Award (2022) from Cambrian International College of Aviation, a testament to his commitment to student engagement, curriculum innovation, and instructional excellence. His mentorship has also yielded impressive results—most notably when one of his students was selected for the BTEC Award (2021) and received the Bronze Certificate for Engineering Learner of the Year, highlighting his ability to inspire and guide learners toward excellence. In addition to institutional recognition, Rahman is affiliated with several prestigious professional bodies, including the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). His active involvement in these societies, coupled with his participation in high-profile events like the RAeS Aerodynamics Specialist Conference and Government HE Events, showcases his commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. These honors and memberships not only validate his academic contributions but also underscore his rising influence as an educator and researcher in aerospace engineering, particularly in the field of sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Conclusion

Md Atiqur Rahman stands as a dynamic and impactful figure in the realms of aerospace education and research. His journey—from a dedicated lecturer to an innovative Ph.D. researcher—demonstrates a rare blend of academic rigor, teaching excellence, and research innovation. His work on natural fiber-based composites is not only scientifically significant but also timely, addressing pressing environmental challenges within aerospace engineering. With a growing list of publications, conference presentations, and teaching awards, Rahman has established himself as a promising academic professional committed to excellence. His ability to bridge the gap between research and education ensures that his findings contribute directly to student learning and industry advancement. His diverse teaching experiences across different academic systems further enhance his instructional agility and global outlook. As he continues to expand his research collaborations, aim for high-impact journals, and pursue research leadership roles, his contributions will undoubtedly strengthen the field of sustainable aviation and engineering education. Md Atiqur Rahman is a deserving candidate for recognition such as the Best Researcher Award, with strong potential for continued academic and research leadership. His trajectory reflects both deep expertise and future promise in advancing environmentally responsible technologies within aerospace engineering.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Palmyra Palm Shell (Borassus flabellifer) Properties Part 2: Insights into Its Thermal and Mechanical Properties
    Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski, P. Farrell
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 3

  2. Title: Palmyra Palm Shell (Borassus flabellifer) Properties Part 1: Insights into Its Physical and Chemical Properties
    Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 3

  3. Title: Effect of Alkali Treatment on Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Borassus Flabellifer Husk Fibre Reinforced Epoxy Composites
    Authors: M.A. Rahman, Mamadou Ndiaye, Bartosz Weclawski, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 2

  4. Title: Palmyra Palm Shell (Borassus flabellifer) Properties Part 3: Insights into Its Morphological, Chemical and Thermal Properties after Alkali Treatment
    Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski, P. Farrell
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  5. Title: Optimizing Borassus Husk Fibre/Epoxy Composites: A Study on Physical, Thermal, Flexural and Dynamic Mechanical Performance
    Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski, P. Farrell
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  6. Title: Enhancing Thermal and Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Lignocellulosic Borassus Husk Fibre/Epoxy Composites through Alkali Treatment
    Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski, P. Farrell
    Year: 2025