Danica Babic | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Danica Babic | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

University of Belgrade, Faculty of Transport and Traffic Engineering, Serbia

Prof. Dr. Danica Babić is an esteemed expert in air transport and traffic engineering, with extensive academic, research, and consultancy experience. She specializes in airline planning, transportation networks, and air passenger demand forecasting. With over 50 published papers in leading scientific journals and conference proceedings, she has made significant contributions to the field. Dr. Babić has been actively involved in international research projects, including FP7 and Horizon 2020, and has participated in numerous conferences and workshops worldwide. Her expertise extends to consulting in airport planning, network recovery, and aviation operations. She is also a program committee member of TRANSCODE and has delivered lectures on AI in aviation at global forums.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Babić earned her Ph.D. in Engineering (Air Transportation) from the University of Belgrade – Faculty of Transport and Traffic Engineering (UB-FTTE) in 2015, with a dissertation focused on network structure and airline scheduling optimization. Prior to that, she completed her Master’s degree in 2009 and a Bachelor’s degree in 2005, both in Air Transport Engineering from UB-FTTE. She has also participated in specialized training programs and workshops, including courses on air transport economics, risk analysis, and multimodal transport organized by leading institutions like EUROCONTROL and SESAR JU.

Professional Experience

Dr. Babić has been a faculty member at the University of Belgrade – Faculty of Transport and Traffic Engineering since 2005, holding positions ranging from Teaching Assistant to her current role as an Associate Professor. She has contributed to major research initiatives, including the European Commission-funded FP7 TRANSTOOLS 3 project and the Horizon 2020 SYN+AIR project. In addition to academia, she has served as a consultant on projects related to airline schedule optimization, airport design, and aviation demand modeling. Notably, she was involved in the sustainability study for Airport Konstantin Veliki in Niš and the technical documentation for the Pljevlja Airport and Heliport project.

Research Interests

Dr. Danica Babić’s research primarily focuses on air transport planning and optimization, with a particular emphasis on airline scheduling, airport operations, and aviation demand forecasting. She explores the complexities of airline network structures, flight scheduling efficiency, and multimodal transportation integration. Her work contributes to enhancing operational resilience in the aviation industry, optimizing passenger and cargo transport flows, and improving decision-making in air transport systems. Additionally, she is deeply involved in data-driven analysis and AI applications in aviation, leveraging machine learning and advanced statistical modeling to predict air travel demand, assess airline performance, and optimize network recovery strategies. Her research extends to the role of artificial intelligence in air traffic management, disruption management, and capacity planning. Dr. Babić is also engaged in sustainability and environmental impact assessment within aviation, working on projects related to emissions reduction, green airport initiatives, and the integration of alternative fuels to support eco-friendly air transport development.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Danica Babić has received numerous academic and professional recognitions for her contributions to the field of air transport and traffic engineering. She has been honored by the University of Belgrade for her excellence in research and teaching, recognizing her significant role in advancing aviation studies. Her doctoral thesis on “Network Structure and Airline Scheduling Optimization” was highly regarded and contributed to innovations in airline operations. She has also been recognized by international organizations for her contributions to aviation research, including her involvement in prestigious EU-funded projects like FP7 Transtools 3 and Horizon 2020 SYN+AIR. As a program committee member of the International Conference on Science and Development of Transport (TRANSCODE), she has played a key role in shaping aviation research discussions.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Danica Babić is a highly qualified and accomplished researcher in air transport and traffic engineering. Her extensive research publications, EU project contributions, consultancy experience, and academic leadership make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Strengthening her global collaborations, leading independent research initiatives, and acquiring additional international recognitions would further enhance her qualifications.

Overall, she is a highly deserving nominee with impactful research in transportation and aviation. 🚀

Publications Top Noted

  1. Market share modeling in airline industry: An emerging market economies application
    • Authors: D. Babić, J. Kuljanin, M. Kalić
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 27
  2. Modeling the selection of airline network structure in a competitive environment
    • Authors: D. Babić, M. Kalić
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 22
  3. Integrated door-to-door transport services for air passengers: From intermodality to multimodality
    • Authors: D. Babić, M. Kalić, M. Janić, S. Dožić, K. Kukić
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 20
  4. Airport Access Mode Choice: Analysis of Passengers’ Behavior in European Countries
    • Authors: A. Colovic, S.G. Pilone, K. Kukić, M. Kalić, S. Dožić, D. Babić, M. Ottomanelli
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 13
  5. The airline schedule optimization model: Validation and sensitivity analysis
    • Authors: O. Babić, M. Kalić, D. Babić, S. Dožić
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 11
  6. An AHP approach to airport choice by freight forwarder
    • Authors: S. Dožić, D. Babić, M. Kalić, S. Živojinović
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 9
  7. Airline route network expansion: Modelling the benefits of slot purchases
    • Authors: D. Babić, M. Kalić
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 9
  8. Recent trends in assessment of proposed consolidations in EU airline industry – From discretion to arbitrariness
    • Authors: D. Pavlović, D. Babić
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 8
  9. IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE AVIATION INDUSTRY: An overview of global and some local effects
    • Authors: M. Kalić, D. Babić, S. Dožić, J. Kuljanin, N. Mijović
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 6
  10. Predicting air travel demand using soft computing: Belgrade airport case study
  • Authors: M. Kalić, S. Dožić, D. Babić
  • Year: 2012
  • Citations: 6
  1. Efikasnost aviokompanija u Evropskoj uniji: Primena AHP i DEA metoda
  • Authors: S. Dožić, D. Babić
  • Year: 2015
  • Citations: 4
  1. Modelling the estimation of the airline profit in case of purchasing new slots for increasing flight frequency
  • Authors: D. Babić, M. Kalić
  • Year: 2011
  • Citations: 4
  1. Introduction to the air transport system
  • Authors: M. Kalić, S. Dožić, D. Babić
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 3

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