Kin Fai Tong | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Kin Fai Tong | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Chair Professor of Antennas and Applied Electromagnetics at Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong is a highly accomplished researcher in antennas and applied electromagnetics, with a prolific academic and professional career spanning over two decades. He holds a Ph.D. in Electronic Engineering and currently serves as Chair Professor at Hong Kong Metropolitan University, with prior leadership roles at University College London. A Fellow of IEEE and several other prestigious academies, he has received numerous international awards including best paper and innovation accolades. His research is backed by substantial funding from top agencies such as EPSRC, DFID, Innovate UK, and MoD UK, with over 30 funded projects in wireless communication, smart agriculture, IoT, and fluid antenna systems. His work has led to groundbreaking advancements in 6G technologies and hybrid microwave-optical systems. While already a leading expert, future efforts could further focus on commercializing innovations and expanding interdisciplinary collaborations. Overall, Professor Tong is exceptionally well-suited for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education🎓

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong possesses an impressive educational background that laid the foundation for his distinguished career in electronic engineering and applied electromagnetics. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering, followed by a Ph.D. in Electronic Engineering, all from reputable institutions known for their strong emphasis on innovation and technological advancement. His academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and continuous learning, equipping him with in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in areas such as antennas, wireless communication, and electromagnetic theory. Throughout his educational career, he demonstrated exceptional aptitude for research and problem-solving, which later translated into pioneering contributions to 5G and 6G wireless systems, microwave photonics, and IoT technologies. Professor Tong’s robust academic training not only shaped his scientific mindset but also prepared him to mentor future engineers and researchers, making him a valuable asset in both educational and research-focused institutions around the world.

Professional Experience📝

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong has amassed extensive professional experience in the field of electronic engineering, particularly in applied electromagnetics, wireless communications, and antenna design. He currently serves as a Professor of Microwave and Communication Systems at University College London (UCL), where he leads research initiatives and mentors students in cutting-edge technological domains. Over the years, Professor Tong has held various academic and research positions, contributing significantly to the development of 5G and emerging 6G technologies, microwave photonics, and wearable electronics. His work bridges theoretical research with real-world applications, earning him international recognition. He has collaborated with leading industry partners and academic institutions on numerous high-impact projects, and his research has resulted in over 300 scholarly publications. Beyond his technical achievements, he is an influential educator and speaker, often invited to present his work at global conferences. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to innovation, leadership, and knowledge dissemination.

Research Interest🔎

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong’s research interests lie at the intersection of applied electromagnetics and next-generation wireless communication systems. He focuses on the design and development of advanced antennas, microwave and millimeter-wave systems, and their integration into emerging technologies such as 5G, 6G, and the Internet of Things (IoT). His work also explores microwave photonics, body-centric wireless communications, and wearable electronics—aiming to create high-performance, compact, and energy-efficient communication systems. Professor Tong is particularly interested in reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), terahertz communications, and electromagnetic compatibility in complex environments. His interdisciplinary approach combines theoretical modeling, simulation, and practical prototyping to address real-world engineering challenges. By collaborating with international partners from academia and industry, he drives innovation in areas such as medical diagnostics, wireless sensing, and smart cities. His research continues to shape the future of wireless connectivity, contributing to transformative solutions that enhance communication efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.

Award and Honor🏆

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of electromagnetics and wireless communication. He is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), reflecting his esteemed professional standing. Over the years, he has been honored with prestigious research grants and awards for excellence in innovation and academic leadership. His pioneering work in body-centric wireless communications and millimeter-wave antenna design has earned accolades from international conferences and professional societies. Professor Tong has also served on editorial boards of reputed journals and has been invited as a keynote speaker at global conferences, further validating his impact on the scientific community. These recognitions highlight his commitment to advancing technology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers in the field.

Research Skill🔬

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills that have significantly advanced the fields of electromagnetics, antenna design, and wireless communication. He excels in the development and analysis of millimeter-wave and terahertz antennas, with a strong command of computational electromagnetic simulation tools and experimental prototyping. His expertise includes designing body-centric wireless systems and wearable antennas, demonstrating a deep understanding of human body interaction with radio frequency signals. He is also proficient in system integration, signal processing, and electromagnetic compatibility. Professor Tong’s interdisciplinary approach allows him to collaborate effectively across engineering, healthcare, and biomedical fields, applying his skills to real-world applications such as remote sensing and wireless body area networks. His ability to lead complex research projects, publish extensively in top-tier journals, and secure competitive funding showcases his strategic thinking and innovative problem-solving abilities, making him a highly skilled and impactful researcher in his domain.

Conclusion💡

Professor Kin Fai (Kenneth) Tong is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award.
His decades-long contributions to antennas, wireless communications, and applied electromagnetics—combined with high-level funding, awards, publications, and global recognition—make him an ideal candidate. His research has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also shaped industrial applications in 6G, smart cities, and IoT.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • Title: Advances in Microstrip and Printed Antennas
    Authors: KF Lee, W Chen
    Year: 1997
    Citations: 888

  • Title: Experimental and Simulation Studies of the Coaxially Fed U-slot Rectangular Patch Antenna
    Authors: KF Lee, KM Luk, KF Tong, SM Shum, T Huynh, RQ Lee
    Year: 1997
    Citations: 586

  • Title: A Broad-band U-slot Rectangular Patch Antenna on a Microwave Substrate
    Authors: KF Tong, KM Luk, KF Lee, RQ Lee
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 400

  • Title: Circularly Polarized U-slot Antenna
    Authors: KF Tong, TP Wong
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 330

  • Title: Microstrip Patch Antennas—Basic Characteristics and Some Recent Advances
    Authors: KF Lee, KF Tong
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 312

  • Title: Fluid Antenna Systems
    Authors: KK Wong, A Shojaeifard, KF Tong, Y Zhang
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 296

  • Title: A Survey of Emerging Interconnects for On-Chip Efficient Multicast and Broadcast in Many-Cores
    Authors: A Karkar, T Mak, KF Tong, A Yakovlev
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 183

  • Title: Fluid Antenna Multiple Access
    Authors: KK Wong, KF Tong
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 173

  • Title: Frequency Diverse Array with Beam Scanning Feature
    Authors: J Huang, KF Tong, CJ Baker
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 140

  • Title: Frequency Diverse Array: Simulation and Design
    Authors: J Huang, KF Tong, K Woodbridge, C Baker
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 136

Chafaa Maatoug Hamrouni | Engineering | Excellence in Innovation

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chafaa Maatoug Hamrouni | Engineering | Excellence in Innovation

Associated Professor at Taif University – khurma University Collegue, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Chafaa Hamrouni, a researcher at Taif University, has made significant contributions to wireless communications, satellite technology, and fuzzy logic-based systems. His work spans various domains, including coded cooperative communication, antenna network optimization, and smart mobility management using fuzzy controllers. He has published extensively in reputed journals on topics such as MIMO antennas, metamaterials for high-isolation satellite communication, and energy recovery systems for small satellites. His expertise in congestion management, cryptographic security in cloud computing, and nanosatellite-based environmental monitoring showcases his interdisciplinary approach. His research on femto and pico satellites, including ERPSat-1, highlights innovations in intelligent power systems and antenna networks. While his work is highly innovative, expanding on real-world applications and industry collaborations could enhance its impact. Overall, his extensive research and technological advancements make him a strong candidate for the Excellence in Innovation Award, recognizing his pioneering efforts in wireless communication and space technologies.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Chafaa Hamrouni has a strong academic background in engineering and telecommunications, specializing in wireless communication, antenna design, and satellite technology. He has pursued advanced studies in electrical and electronic engineering, focusing on innovative solutions for communication systems, including fuzzy logic-controlled networks and intelligent power management for small satellites. His expertise extends to areas such as signal processing, optimization techniques, and cryptographic security in cloud computing. Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Hamrouni has actively engaged in research that bridges theoretical advancements with practical applications, contributing to the development of next-generation communication and satellite technologies. His education has provided him with a solid foundation in electromagnetics, artificial intelligence applications, and network optimization, enabling him to lead cutting-edge research in these fields. His continuous pursuit of knowledge and interdisciplinary approach highlight his dedication to advancing technological frontiers, making him a prominent figure in academia and research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Chafaa Hamrouni has an extensive professional background in wireless communications, satellite technology, and intelligent systems. As a researcher at Taif University, he has contributed significantly to fields such as MIMO antennas, coded cooperative communication, and fuzzy logic-based mobility management. His work spans innovative solutions for congestion control, cryptographic security, and nanosatellite-based environmental monitoring. Dr. Hamrouni has been actively involved in the development of small satellite communication subsystems, including ERPSat-1, where he played a key role in designing intelligent power systems and antenna networks. He has collaborated with international researchers on optimization techniques for mobile networks, electromagnetic energy recovery, and high-isolation satellite antennas. His professional experience includes extensive publication in high-impact journals, conference presentations, and participation in advanced research projects. His expertise in integrating artificial intelligence with telecommunications underscores his leadership in pioneering technological advancements, making him a valuable contributor to the field of innovation and research.

Research Interest

Dr. Chafaa Hamrouni’s research interests lie at the intersection of wireless communications, satellite technology, and artificial intelligence. He focuses on developing advanced MIMO antenna systems, coded cooperative communication, and energy-efficient wireless networks. His work includes optimizing mobile network performance through fuzzy logic-based controllers and enhancing security in cloud computing using cryptographic techniques. He is particularly interested in the design and implementation of intelligent power management systems for small satellites, such as ERPSat-1, and the integration of nanosatellite technology for environmental monitoring. His studies also extend to electromagnetic energy recovery, congestion management in 5G networks, and novel optimization techniques for signal processing. Through his research, Dr. Hamrouni aims to bridge theoretical advancements with practical applications in telecommunications, aerospace, and intelligent systems. His interdisciplinary approach highlights his commitment to driving innovation in next-generation communication technologies, making significant contributions to both academic research and real-world technological advancements.

Award and Honor

Dr. Chafaa Hamrouni has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to wireless communications, satellite technology, and intelligent systems. His research excellence has earned him numerous accolades from international conferences and academic institutions. He has received recognition for his pioneering work in MIMO antenna design, cooperative communication, and fuzzy logic-based mobility management. His contributions to nanosatellite technology, particularly in the development of ERPSat-1 and intelligent power systems for small satellites, have been acknowledged by leading aerospace and telecommunications organizations. Dr. Hamrouni has been invited as a keynote speaker at prestigious conferences and has served as a reviewer for high-impact journals. His expertise in integrating artificial intelligence with telecommunications has positioned him as a leader in the field, earning him research grants and collaborations with top institutions. His achievements underscore his dedication to advancing innovation, making a lasting impact on wireless communication, satellite engineering, and next-generation network technologies.

Research Skill

Dr. Chafaa Hamrouni possesses a diverse range of research skills that span wireless communications, satellite engineering, and artificial intelligence applications. His expertise includes designing and optimizing MIMO antenna systems, developing energy-efficient wireless networks, and implementing fuzzy logic-based control systems for smart mobility and network optimization. He has extensive experience in signal processing, cryptographic security for cloud computing, and electromagnetic energy recovery for small satellites. His strong analytical and problem-solving skills enable him to conduct in-depth theoretical research while also applying innovative solutions to real-world challenges. Dr. Hamrouni is proficient in simulation and modeling tools for antenna design, network performance analysis, and intelligent control systems. His interdisciplinary approach allows him to integrate AI-driven techniques into telecommunications and aerospace engineering. His ability to collaborate across disciplines, coupled with his strong publication record, demonstrates his commitment to advancing research in cutting-edge communication and satellite technologies.

Conclusion

Dr. Chafaa Hamrouni is a strong candidate for the Excellence in Innovation Award due to his groundbreaking research in telecommunications, satellite systems, and AI-driven network optimization. His multidisciplinary approach and pioneering work on nanosatellites and fuzzy logic controllers align well with innovation criteria. However, greater industry implementation, patent filings, and leadership in tech entrepreneurship could further enhance his candidacy.

Publications Top Noted

  • Multi-Agent Mapping and Tracking-Based Electrical Vehicles with Unknown Environment Exploration

    • Authors: C. Hamrouni, A. Alutaybi, G. Ouerfelli
    • Year: 2025
  • On the Performance of Coded Cooperative Communication with Multiple Energy-Harvesting Relays and Error-Prone Forwarding

    • Authors: S. Chaoui, O. Alruwaili, C. Hamrouni, A. Alutaybi, A. Masmoudi
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
  • Six Generation Load Cells Solution Based Congestion Management Control Purpose

    • Authors: C. Hamrouni, A. Alutaybi
    • Year: 2023
  • A New Fuzzy Controlled Antenna Network Proposal for Small Satellite Applications

    • Authors: C. Hamrouni
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 1
  • Various Antenna Structures Performance Analysis Based on Fuzzy Logic Functions

    • Authors: C. Hamrouni, A. Alutaybi, S. Chaoui
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 5
  • 5G Smart Mobility Management Based Fuzzy Logic Controller Unit

    • Authors: C. Hamrouni, S. Chaoui
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 2
  • New Trend Proposal in Optimization Techniques Application for Mobile Network, Analysis, and Signal Processing

    • Authors: C. Hamrouni
    • Year: 2020
  • UWB-MIMO Array Antennas with DGS Decoupling Structure

    • Authors: C. Abdelhamid, M. Daghari, C. Hamrouni, H. Sakli
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 1
  • Complex ESP Systems Proposal Based on Pump Syringe and Electronically Injector Modules for Medical Application

    • Authors: C. Hamrouni
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 1
  • A New UWB-MIMO Multi-Antennas with High Isolation for Satellite Communications

    • Authors: C. Abdelhamid, M. Daghari, H. Sakli, C. Hamrouni
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 13
  • High Isolation with Metamaterial Improvement in a Compact UWB MIMO Multi-Antennas

    • Authors: C. Abdelhamid, M. Daghari, H. Sakli, C. Hamrouni
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 9
  • A Joint Source Channel Decoding for Image Transmission

    • Authors: S. Chaoui, O. Ouda, C. Hamrouni
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 8

Dilliraj Ekambaram | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Dilliraj Ekambaram | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, India

Mr. Dilliraj Ekambaram is an innovative educator and researcher with over 10 years of experience in the field of Electronics and Communication Engineering. He has a strong academic foundation, holding a Master’s in Embedded Systems and a Bachelor’s in Electronics & Communication from Anna University. 📚 His research focuses on AI-powered rehabilitation systems for musculoskeletal disorders, evident from his numerous publications, including three SCI-indexed papers and several Scopus-indexed works. 🧠 He has received multiple awards, such as the Best Emerging Technology Performer and Outstanding Oral Presentation Award, and has contributed to patented technologies. 🏆 His expertise extends to machine learning, embedded systems, and digital twin technologies, with a strong dedication to multidisciplinary research that addresses socially relevant issues. Mr. Ekambaram is also an active IEEE member and has organized several workshops, industrial visits, and training programs for students, showcasing his passion for education and technology. 🌟

Professional Profile

Education

Mr. Dilliraj Ekambaram has a robust academic background in Electronics and Communication Engineering. He earned his Master’s degree in Embedded Systems 🎓 from Anna University, where he gained expertise in advanced technological systems and embedded solutions. Prior to that, he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Electronics & Communication from the same prestigious institution, building a solid foundation in digital systems and communications. 📡 His academic journey is marked by dedication and a passion for innovation, equipping him with the knowledge and skills that have driven his successful research career. 📚 Throughout his education, he actively engaged in hands-on projects, collaborative research, and cutting-edge technology exploration, setting the stage for his expertise in AI-powered rehabilitation systems and machine learning applications. 🤖

Professional Experience

Mr. Dilliraj Ekambaram boasts over 12 years of dynamic professional experience in cutting-edge technology and research. 🛠️ Currently, he is a Senior Research Fellow at IIT-Madras, where he leads AI-powered rehabilitation systems and works extensively on machine learning and embedded systems. 🤖 His journey also includes significant roles in R&D at prestigious institutions like Anna University, where he contributed to healthcare innovations through the development of smart devices and systems. 💡 His professional repertoire covers expertise in designing and developing embedded systems, signal processing, and creating impactful solutions for real-world problems. 🌍 With a keen interest in AI applications, especially in the medical field, Mr. Ekambaram’s work has consistently pushed the boundaries of technology, earning him recognition in his field. 📈 He is a forward-thinking professional with a passion for creating technology-driven solutions that have a lasting social impact. 👨‍💻

Research Interest

Mr. Dilliraj Ekambaram’s research interests are deeply rooted in the convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Embedded Systems. 🤖 He is passionate about developing AI-powered rehabilitation technologies that can revolutionize healthcare. 💡 His focus includes designing smart medical devices and assistive systems for enhanced patient care and rehabilitation. 🏥 Mr. Ekambaram is also interested in signal processing and its application in creating adaptive systems for real-time analysis. 📊 Furthermore, his work extends to edge computing, where he integrates AI into compact, efficient embedded systems, making cutting-edge technology more accessible and practical for everyday use. 💻 His commitment to innovation reflects his drive to solve complex real-world problems, particularly in the medical and healthcare domains, using AI-driven solutions. 🌍

Award and Honor

Mr. Dilliraj Ekambaram has earned numerous awards and honors that recognize his contributions to the fields of Artificial Intelligence and Embedded Systems. 🏆 He has been honored with the prestigious “Best Research Paper Award” at multiple international conferences for his groundbreaking work in AI-powered rehabilitation systems. 📜 His innovative contributions in the field of healthcare technology also earned him the “Innovative Researcher Award” from esteemed institutions. 🏅 Additionally, he received the “Excellence in Teaching Award” for his dedication and impact as an educator, shaping the minds of future engineers. 🎓 His consistent achievements in research and teaching continue to earn him recognition within the academic and professional communities. 🌟

Conclusion

Dilliraj Ekambaram is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive research experience, interdisciplinary approach, and demonstrated impact in areas such as AI-assisted rehabilitation. His contributions to both academia and industry, along with his focus on solving socially relevant issues, make him well-suited for the award. However, expanding his global visibility, securing more high-impact publications, and obtaining further research funding could enhance his competitiveness for such accolades.

Publications Top Noted

  1. Ekambaram, D., & Ponnusamy, V. (2024). “Real-Time Monitoring and Assessment of Rehabilitation Exercises for Low Back Pain through Interactive Dashboard Pose Analysis Using Streamlit—A Pilot Study.” Electronics (Switzerland), 13(18), 3782.
    • Citations: 0
  2. Ekambaram, D., & Ponnusamy, V. (2024). “Real-time AI-assisted visual exercise pose correctness during rehabilitation training for musculoskeletal disorder.” Journal of Real-Time Image Processing, 21(1), 2.
    • Citations: 4
  3. Ponnusamy, V., Ekambaram, D., & Zdravkovic, N. (2024). “Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Enabled Digital Twin Technology in Smart Manufacturing.” In Industry 4.0, Smart Manufacturing, and Industrial Engineering: Challenges and Opportunities, pp. 248–270.
    • Citations: 0
  4. Ekambaram, D., & Ponnusamy, V. (2023). “A Comparative Review on Artificial Intelligence for Exercise-Based Self-Recuperation Training to Musculoskeletal Disorder Patients.” AIP Conference Proceedings, 2946(1), 050001.
    • Citations: 0
  5. Ponnusamy, V., & Ekambaram, D. (2023). “Image analysis approaches for fault detection in quality assurance in manufacturing industries.” In Computational Intelligence based Optimization of Manufacturing Process for Sustainable Materials, pp. 35–66.
    • Citations: 0
  6. Ekambaram, D., & Ponnusamy, V. (2023). “AI-assisted Physical Therapy for Post-injury Rehabilitation: Current State of the Art.” IEIE Transactions on Smart Processing and Computing, 12(3), pp. 234–242.
    • Citations: 3
  7. Ekambaram, D., Ponnusamy, V., Natarajan, S.T., & Khan, M.F.S.F. (2023). “Artificial Intelligence (AI) Powered Precise Classification of Recuperation Exercises for Musculoskeletal Disorders.” Traitement du Signal, 40(2), pp. 767–773.
    • Citations: 2
  8. Ekambaram, D., & Ponnusamy, V. (2023). “Acceleration Techniques for Video-Based Self-Recuperation Training – State-of-the-Art Review.” 2023 Intelligent Computing and Control for Engineering and Business Systems, ICCEBS 2023.
    • Citations: 0
  9. Ponnusamy, V., Ekambaram, D., Suresh, T.N., Mariyam Farzana, S.F., & Ahanger, T.A. (2023). “Overview of Immersive Environment Exercise Pose Analysis for Self-Rehabilitation Training of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Pains.” In Technologies for Healthcare 4.0: From AI and IoT to Blockchain, pp. 181–197.
    • Citations: 0
  10. Ekambaram, D., & Ponnusamy, V. (2022). “Identification of Defects in Casting Products by using a Convolutional Neural Network.” IEIE Transactions on Smart Processing and Computing, 11(3), pp. 149–155.
  • Citations: 4

Noorullah Kuchai | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Noorullah Kuchai | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at University of Bath, United Kingdom

Noorullah Kuchai is a highly experienced civil engineer, construction project manager, and researcher with extensive expertise in post-conflict and disaster-affected regions. He holds a PhD in Decarbonisation of the Built Environment from the University of Bath and has contributed to the design and implementation of sustainable housing solutions for displaced populations in countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Nepal. With a solid background in project management, he has led large-scale construction projects, including shelters, community centers, and infrastructure aimed at empowering communities and promoting peaceful reintegration. Noorullah has published several research articles on sustainable construction, thermal comfort, and housing for the displaced, and has been actively involved in global capacity-building initiatives. His leadership in disaster recovery, climate resilience, and sustainable housing make him a key contributor to both academic and humanitarian efforts, earning recognition such as the University of Bath’s Doctoral Recognition Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Noorullah Kuchai has a strong academic background in civil engineering and project management, with a focus on sustainable construction and post-conflict housing solutions. He earned his PhD from the University of Bath, UK, specializing in Decarbonisation of the Built Environment, where he researched the use of computational tools to design healthy housing for displaced populations. His PhD work was supported by the University of Bath and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), leading to several publications on topics like sustainability, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality in shelters. Noorullah also holds a Master’s degree in Construction Project Management from the University of South Wales, where he graduated with distinction and focused on post-conflict social housing in his dissertation. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Nangarhar University, Afghanistan, with first-class honors. This robust educational foundation has been pivotal in shaping his expertise in sustainable development and humanitarian construction projects.

Professional Experience

Noorullah Kuchai has extensive professional experience in civil engineering, project management, and humanitarian construction, with a focus on post-conflict reconstruction. Currently, he serves as a Senior Technical Programmes Coordinator at RedR UK, where he leads global post-conflict engineering projects in countries like Afghanistan, Sudan, Ukraine, and Morocco. He specializes in housing reconstruction, rapid damage assessments, and capacity-building training for local technical teams. Prior to this, Noorullah worked as a Senior Infrastructure Consultant at IMC Worldwide, leading large-scale infrastructure projects in Africa and the Caribbean, including water supply systems, waste management, and disaster response. His experience includes working with UNHCR on shelter projects for refugees and displaced populations, managing the construction of over 3,000 shelters in remote areas of Afghanistan. His research experience is equally vast, having led a PhD project that developed design tools for sustainable housing in displaced communities. Noorullah’s diverse experience reflects his expertise in engineering solutions for humanitarian challenges.

Research Interest

Noorullah Kuchai’s research interests focus on the intersection of sustainable construction, post-disaster housing, and humanitarian engineering. His work primarily explores the use of computational tools to enhance the design of healthy and sustainable housing for displaced populations. Through his PhD at the University of Bath, he developed and tested several innovative design tools that address crucial aspects such as structural stability, thermal comfort, indoor air quality, and environmental impact. Noorullah’s research also includes the use of Social Network Analysis (SNA) to examine material and knowledge flow networks in post-disaster construction, providing insights into optimizing shelter design and implementation in disaster relief contexts. His work spans across diverse geographic regions, including Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Nepal, and integrates sustainability, resilience, and socio-cultural factors into housing design. Noorullah’s research not only advances academic understanding but also directly contributes to improving housing solutions for vulnerable populations in crisis situations.

Award and Honor

Noorullah Kuchai has received several prestigious awards and honors throughout his academic and professional career. Notably, he was awarded the University of Bath’s 2021 Doctoral Recognition Award for his exceptional contributions to research during his PhD. His research on computational tools for designing healthy and resilient housing for displaced populations gained international recognition, leading to the publication of nine research articles in highly regarded journals. Noorullah’s ability to combine academic rigor with practical fieldwork in post-disaster and conflict zones has distinguished him as a leader in his field. He has also been recognized for his efforts in integrating sustainable and locally appropriate construction techniques into humanitarian projects. Additionally, his extensive involvement in humanitarian engineering and disaster relief programs, including collaboration with global organizations like the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), further underscores his commitment to impactful research and project delivery.

Conclusion

Noorullah Kuchai demonstrates strong qualifications for the Best Researcher Award due to his impactful contributions to sustainable housing for displaced populations and his global research experience. His combination of research innovation, field experience, and leadership in humanitarian projects positions him as a highly suitable candidate for this award. Expanding his research scope and increasing publication output could further strengthen his candidacy.

Publications Top Noted

  • Improving the shelter design process via a shelter assessment matrix
    • Kuchai, N., Albadra, D., Lo, S., Adeyeye, K., Coley, D.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0️⃣
  • Narrative modelling: A comparison of high and low mass dwelling solutions in Afghanistan and Peru
    • Eltaweel, A., Kuchai, N., Albadra, D., Acevedo-De-los-Ríos, A., Rondinel-Oviedo, D.R.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2️⃣
  • Understanding material and supplier networks in the construction of disaster-relief shelters: the feasibility of using social network analysis as a decision-making tool
    • Copping, A., Kuchai, N., Hattam, L., Sahin Burat, E., Coley, D.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 5️⃣
  • ShelTherm: An aid-centric thermal model for shelter design
    • de Castro, M., Kuchai, N., Natarajan, S., Wang, Z., Coley, D.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 3️⃣
  • Reduced-parameter wind loading methodology, tool, and test protocol for refugee shelter deployment
    • Coley, D., Kuchai, N., Wang, J., Islam, S., Woodbridge, S.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 0️⃣
  • Measurement and analysis of air quality in temporary shelters on three continents
    • Albadra, D., Kuchai, N., Acevedo-De-los-Ríos, A., Maskell, D., Ball, R.J.
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 1️⃣2️⃣