Joรฃo Felipe C L Costa | Engineering | Best Research Article Award

Prof. Joรฃo Felipe C L Costa | Engineering | Best Research Article Award

Professor at Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Dr. Joรฃo Felipe Costa ๐ŸŽ“ is a distinguished Professor of Mining Engineering at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, with over four decades of expertise in geostatistics, mineral exploration, and mine planning โ›๏ธ. He holds a PhD in Geostatistics from the University of Queensland and has published 300+ peer-reviewed papers ๐Ÿ“š. A respected mentor, he has guided over 110 theses and dissertations and received multiple teaching accolades, including the prestigious John Cedric Griffiths Teaching Award ๐Ÿ…. As head of the mineral exploration lab for 30+ years and an active member of leading international mining societies ๐ŸŒ, Dr. Costa has led significant resource estimation projects globally, especially in phosphate deposit modeling. His career exemplifies academic excellence, innovation, and impactful contributions to mining sciences and education ๐Ÿ”.

Professional Profile

๐ŸŽ“ Education

Dr. Joรฃo Felipe Costa earned his BSc (1983) and MSc (1992) in Mining Engineering from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul ๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ท, where he currently serves as Professor. He advanced his academic journey by earning a PhD in Geostatistics from the University of Queensland, Australia ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ in 1997. His education bridges deep technical knowledge with applied innovation, particularly in geological modeling and statistical data analysis ๐Ÿ“Š. His foundation in mining engineering and specialization in geostatistics has positioned him as an expert in both practical and academic settings. Dr. Costaโ€™s education reflects a strong commitment to continuous learning and excellence in the evolving field of mineral resources and spatial data science ๐Ÿง .

๐Ÿ’ผ Professional Experience

Dr. Costa began his career as a mining engineer at a major coal operation in southern Brazil, where he optimized unit operations using early computer applications in the 1980s ๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธโ›๏ธ. He joined the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul in 1986 and has served as a Professor in the Mining Engineering Department ever since. His professional journey includes roles as Department Head, research lab coordinator, and consultant on numerous mineral resource evaluation projects ๐ŸŒ. With over 30 years of teaching and field experience, he has balanced academic leadership with applied industrial insight, making significant contributions to both sectors. His dedication to education, project execution, and resource modeling showcases his deep engagement with both theory and practice โš™๏ธ๐Ÿ“˜.

๐Ÿ”ฌ Research Interest

Dr. Joรฃo Felipe Costaโ€™s core research interests lie in geostatistics, mineral resource estimation, mine planning, and phosphate deposit modeling ๐Ÿ“ˆ. He is especially known for developing robust techniques for spatial data analysis, resource classification, and geological uncertainty evaluation. His work extends to a variety of geological settings, including sedimentary and carbonatite phosphate formations in Brazil and Peru ๐ŸŒ. Passionate about data-driven solutions, his research integrates statistical modeling with software tools to improve decision-making in exploration and mining processes ๐Ÿ’ก. As a leading voice in mathematical geosciences, Dr. Costaโ€™s interdisciplinary research not only enhances mining efficiency but also supports sustainable resource management ๐Ÿ”Ž๐Ÿงญ.

๐Ÿ… Awards and Honors

Dr. Costa has been honored multiple times throughout his career. Most notably, he received the John Cedric Griffiths Teaching Award in 2014 from the International Association for Mathematical Geosciences, recognizing his excellence in geoscience education ๐ŸŽ–๏ธ. He has also been named Distinguished Professor by graduating classes over the past 20 years, reflecting his lasting impact on student learning ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿซ. As an esteemed member of professional societies like AusIMM, IAMG, SME (USA), and SAIMM (South Africa), his global contributions have earned widespread recognition ๐ŸŒ. His leadership in Brazilโ€™s mineral resources committee further reinforces his influence in shaping mining policy and academic standards ๐Ÿ†.

๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Research Skills

Dr. Costa possesses advanced research skills in geostatistical modeling, orebody evaluation, spatial data interpretation, and mineral resource classification ๐Ÿ”. He is proficient in using industry-relevant software for data simulation, variography, and risk assessment ๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธ๐Ÿ“Š. His methodological rigor is evident in over 300 peer-reviewed publications and advisory roles in complex exploration projects worldwide ๐ŸŒŽ. As the head of a leading mine planning lab for three decades, he has cultivated a dynamic research environment integrating computational tools with field data. His skills also include thesis supervision, technical writing, and collaborative research management, making him a versatile and highly capable scientific contributor ๐Ÿ”ง๐Ÿ“˜.

Publications Top Note ๐Ÿ“

Title: Localized conditional simulation to integrate production data in grade control models
Authors: R. L. Silva, J. F. C. L. Costa, D. M. Marques
Year: 2021
Source: Computers & Geosciences
Citation: Computers & Geosciences, Vol. 150, 104722

Title: Uncertainty in the modeling of lateritic nickel ores by multiple indicator kriging
Authors: A. L. F. Duarte, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2016
Source: Ore Geology Reviews
Citation: Ore Geology Reviews 73, 223โ€“233

Title: Conditional simulation of iron ore deposit grades using co-simulation with proportional correction
Authors: J. F. C. L. Costa, R. H. Rubio, D. M. Marques
Year: 2018
Source: Revista Escola de Minas
Citation: Rev. Esc. Minas 71(4), 531โ€“538

Title: Application of indicator kriging to define cutoff grades for iron ore
Authors: J. F. C. L. Costa, D. M. Marques
Year: 2013
Source: Revista Escola de Minas
Citation: Rev. Esc. Minas 66(1), 37โ€“43

Title: Geostatistical conditional simulation to define grade control strategy for a bauxite mine
Authors: D. M. Marques, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2015
Source: J. South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
Citation: J. SAIMM 115(6), 533โ€“540

Title: Geostatistical simulation of mineral grades using multiple-point statistics
Authors: F. G. da Silva, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2016
Source: Computers & Geosciences
Citation: Computers & Geosciences 94, 1โ€“12

Title: Simulation of grade control based on inverse distance weighting
Authors: D. M. Marques, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2018
Source: Revista Escola de Minas
Citation: Rev. Esc. Minas 71(1), 123โ€“129

Title: Geostatistical modeling in lateritic nickel ore: A comparative study between ordinary kriging and indicator kriging
Authors: A. L. F. Duarte, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2015
Source: Natural Resources Research
Citation: Nat. Resour. Res. 24(2), 213โ€“225

Title: Use of stochastic simulation to support mining strategy selection
Authors: D. M. Marques, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2016
Source: Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
Citation: J. SAIMM 116(7), 669โ€“676

Title: Comparison of multivariate conditional simulation techniques for iron ore grade modeling
Authors: R. H. Rubio, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2017
Source: Computers & Geosciences
Citation: Computers & Geosciences 101, 1โ€“12

โœ… Conclusion

Dr. Joรฃo Felipe Costa is a world-class academic and professional in mining engineering and geostatistics, blending education, research, and leadership with remarkable consistency ๐ŸŒŸ. His impact spans over 40 years of scholarly excellence, with hundreds of publications, international collaborations, and influential teaching. A mentor, innovator, and geoscience leader, he continues to shape the future of mineral exploration and resource evaluation ๐Ÿ”ฌ๐Ÿงญ. With his global recognition, research depth, and technical command, Dr. Costa stands as a compelling candidate for top honors in scientific research and academic excellence ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ….

Shima Sadaf | Engineering | Excellence in Research Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Shima Sadaf | Engineering | Excellence in Research Award |

Assistant Professor at King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Shima Sadaf ๐ŸŽ“ is an accomplished Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering at King Faisal University, with a Ph.D. (Distinction & Gold Medal) from Qatar University. Her impactful research spans digital twins, AI-driven power electronics โšก, micro/nano-grids, and sustainable energy solutions ๐ŸŒฑ. With 31 publications, two patentsโ€”including a US patentโ€”and multiple awards ๐Ÿ† such as the LEWAS 2024 Academic Achievement Award, she demonstrates innovation and leadership. Her industry experience with Hyundai and ETA enriches her applied research. A dedicated mentor, active reviewer for top IEEE journals ๐Ÿ“š, and certified LEED AP BD+C and PMPยฎ professional, Dr. Sadaf combines advanced research with practical solutions for modern power systems. Her work continues to bridge academia, industry, and sustainability, driving real-world impact and inspiring future engineers.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid Profile

๐Ÿ“š Education

Dr. Shima Sadaf holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering ๐ŸŽ“ with Distinction and a Gold Medal from Qatar University (2022), specializing in power electronics and nanogrid applications. She earned her M.Tech with Honors in Power Systems & Drives (2007) and B.Tech in Electrical Engineering (2004) from Aligarh Muslim University, India. Her strong academic foundation blends advanced theory, practical design, and cutting-edge technologies โšก. Her thesis focused on high-gain DC-DC converters for nanogrids, laying a robust base for sustainable energy research. Committed to continuous learning, she has also achieved professional certifications like LEED AP BD+C and PMPยฎ ๐Ÿ…, enhancing her expertise in sustainable design and project management. Dr. Sadafโ€™s educational journey reflects a balance of academic rigor, innovation, and practical relevance.

๐Ÿ’ผ Professional Experience

Dr. Shima Sadafโ€™s career integrates academia and industry seamlessly. Currently an Assistant Professor ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿซ at King Faisal University, she actively develops curricula, mentors students, leads accreditation processes, and designs innovative programs in electrical engineering. Previously, she served as a Graduate Teaching Research Assistant at Qatar University, contributing significantly to teaching and laboratory innovation. Before academia, Dr. Sadaf spent nearly a decade in industry ๐Ÿ—๏ธ as an Electrical Design Engineer with Hyundai Engineering & Construction and ETA M&E, delivering complex, multimillion-dollar projects like the iconic National Museum of Qatar. Her diverse roles included technical design, project coordination, stakeholder engagement, and mentoring junior engineers. This rich blend of industry and academic experience empowers her to deliver research with strong practical impact and relevance โš™๏ธ.

๐Ÿ”ฌ Research Interest

Dr. Shima Sadafโ€™s research focuses on shaping the future of sustainable and intelligent power systems. Her work explores digital twins and AI for converter design ๐Ÿค–, cybersecurity for power electronics, smart grids, integrated micro/nano-grids, and renewable energy for net-zero goals ๐ŸŒ. She is especially known for AI-driven design optimization of high-gain DC-DC converters and advanced electric vehicle charging systems ๐Ÿš—โšก. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates power electronics, machine learning, and grid modernization, addressing urgent global challenges like clean energy, resilient infrastructure, and energy efficiency. With a vision to bridge theory and application, Dr. Sadafโ€™s research not only advances academic knowledge but also provides scalable solutions for the energy transition, industry innovation, and smarter cities of tomorrow ๐Ÿ”‹๐Ÿ™๏ธ.

๐Ÿ† Awards and Honors

Dr. Shima Sadafโ€™s dedication and impact are recognized with prestigious awards ๐Ÿฅ‡. She received the โ€œAcademic Achievement – University Professor Award_LEWAS 2024โ€ for her outstanding contributions to engineering education and research. She also earned the โ€œBest Researcher Awardโ€ and โ€œOutstanding Leadership Awardโ€ for her influence in innovative research and academic leadership ๐Ÿ‘. Her doctoral distinction, recognized with a Gold Medal and a special honor by the Amir of Qatarโ€™s wife, underscores her academic excellence. Additional accolades include the โ€œWomen Researcher Awardโ€ by ScienceFather and multiple best paper awards at top conferences ๐Ÿ“œ. These honors reflect not only her scholarly productivity but her commitment to inspiring women in STEM and driving real-world solutions through impactful research.

๐Ÿงฉ Research Skills

Dr. Shima Sadaf combines deep theoretical expertise with practical skills across modern tools and methodologies ๐Ÿ”. She is proficient in MATLAB/Simulink, PowerWorld Simulator, FPGA with system generator, Arduino IDE, Multisim, and PCB design tools ๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธ. Her robust skill set supports complex modeling, simulation, and implementation of high-gain DC-DC converters, smart grids, and AI-based power systems. She holds two patents, including a US patent, evidencing her innovation in practical technologies โšก. As a reviewer for IEEE Transactions, IET Power Electronics, and other top journals, she upholds high standards in scientific rigor ๐Ÿ“š. Her leadership in workshops and expert talks further highlights her ability to transfer knowledge and inspire emerging researchers and engineers ๐ŸŒŸ.

Publications Top Note ๐Ÿ“

Title: ON/OFF Switchable Smart Poly(Nโ€isopropylacrylamide) Based Hybrid Nanocatalyst for the Response Surface Methodology Based Catalytic Reduction of 2โ€Nitroaniline
Authors: M. W. Alam, S. M. Usman, S. Naeem, N. Zaidi, Shima Sadaf, K. Naseem
Year: 2025
Source: ChemistrySelect
Citation: ChemistrySelect 10 (8), Feb. 2025, https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.202404485

Title: Multifunctional ZrOโ‚‚/NiO/RGO Ternary Nanocomposites for Degradation of Organic Pollutants, Hโ‚‚ Production and Antioxidant Property
Authors: S. R. Bavaji, A. Jafar Ahamed, M. W. Alam, G. M. Alsulaim, S. Sadaf
Year: 2025
Source: Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials
Citation: Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials, Jan. 2025, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10904-025-03630-w

Title: Insight into NaSiClโ‚ƒ: A Lead-Free Perovskite for the Next Generation Revealed by DFT and SCAPS-1D
Authors: S. Rabhi, et al.
Year: 2025
Source: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics
Citation: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, Jan. 2025, https://doi.org/10.1039/d5cp01747e

Title: Improved Niโ‚ƒVโ‚‚Oโ‚ˆ Supercapacitive Performance via Urea-Driven Morphological Alteration
Authors: M. W. Alam, et al.
Year: 2025
Source: Ceramics International
Citation: Ceramics International 51 (10), 13430โ€“13442, Jan. 2025, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ceramint.2025.01.187

Title: Enhanced UV Photodetector Based on WOโ‚ƒ/SnOโ‚‚ Heterostructure Nanowire
Authors: M. W. Alam, I. Ao, S. Sadaf, E. R. Singh
Year: 2024
Source: Applied Physics A
Citation: Applied Physics A 131 (1), Dec. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1007/s00339-024-08177-0

Title: Bio-Genic Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Nanodots (NDCNDs) Using Aristolochia bractealata for MO Catalytic Activity and Security Ink
Authors: M. W. Alam, et al.
Year: 2024
Source: Waste and Biomass Valorization
Citation: Waste and Biomass Valorization, Dec. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1007/s12649-024-02859-9

Title: Hydrothermal Synthesis of rGO-Decorated NiMnโ‚‚Oโ‚„ Nanoneedles for High-Performance Positive Electrode in Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: J. Jothi, M. Parthibavarman, K. L. Meghanathan, B. Souayeh, M. W. Alam, S. Sadaf
Year: 2024
Source: Diamond and Related Materials
Citation: Diamond and Related Materials 150, Nov. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diamond.2024.111764

Title: Controlled Synthesis and Electrochemical Characterization of Coโ‚ƒVโ‚‚Oโ‚ˆ Hexagonal Sheets for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: M. A. Yewale, D. K. Shin, M. W. Alam, A. M. Teli, S. Nabi, S. A. Ansari, S. Sadaf, A. A. AlKahtani
Year: 2024
Source: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects
Citation: Colloids and Surfaces A, Aug. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfa.2024.135180

Title: Advancements in Green-Synthesized Transition Metal/Metal-Oxide Nanoparticles for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment
Authors: M. W. Alam, et al.
Year: 2024
Source: Materials Research Express
Citation: Materials Research Express 11 (10), Oct. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1088/2053-1591/ad86a4

Title: Bipolar Resistive Switching Behavior of Bilayer ฮฒ-Gaโ‚‚Oโ‚ƒ/WOโ‚ƒ Thin Film Memristor Device
Authors: M. W. Alam, A. Jamir, B. Longkumer, B. Souayeh, S. Sadaf, B. Moirangthem
Year: 2024
Source: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Citation: Journal of Alloys and Compounds 1010, Oct. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2024.177032

โœ… Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Shima Sadaf is an outstanding researcher, educator, and innovator who exemplifies research excellence and impactful leadership โœจ. Her career unites advanced technical expertise, high-quality publications ๐Ÿ“‘, patents, industry experience, and dedication to sustainability ๐ŸŒฑ. Recognized globally for her contributions and leadership, she empowers the next generation of engineers through active mentorship, curriculum innovation, and outreach. With her strong interdisciplinary focus and commitment to solving real-world energy challenges โš™๏ธ, Dr. Sadaf stands out as a role model in modern power electronics and sustainable energy systems. Her work continues to bridge academia, industry, and society, driving progress towards smarter, greener, and more resilient energy solutions for the future โšก๐ŸŒ.

 

Muhammad Shahzeb | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Muhammad Shahzeb | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Master Degree Student at Sichuan University, Pakistan.

Mr. Muhammad Shahzeb is a mechanical engineer with expertise in structural design, mechanical failure analysis, and telecom infrastructure. He is currently pursuing an MS in Mechanical Engineering at Sichuan University, focusing on reliability analysis of silicon microstructures with multilayer thin films. With experience at Next Level Communications and China State Shipbuilding Corporation, he has worked on mechanical system design, integration, and performance optimization. His research interests lie in advanced materials, reliability engineering, and structural optimization for mechanical applications.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Educational Details

  • MS Mechanical Engineering (2022 โ€“ 2025) โ€“ Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
    • Thesis: Advanced Reliability Analysis of Fully Coated Silicon Microstructures with Multilayer Thin Films
  • BS Mechanical Engineering (2016 โ€“ 2020) โ€“ Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
    • Thesis: Structural Design of Cable Take-up Machine

Professional Experience

  • Mechanical Engineer, Next Level Communications (Pvt.) Limited (Jul 2020 โ€“ Jan 2023) โ€“ Islamabad, Pakistan

    • Designed and reviewed mechanical schematics for power systems and telecom infrastructure, ensuring multi-vendor equipment compatibility.
    • Led the installation and commissioning of mechanical components, improving system efficiency by 20%.
    • Conducted root cause analysis of mechanical failures, reducing downtime by 25%.
    • Worked with cross-functional teams to integrate mechanical systems into next-generation telecom networks.
  • Mechanical Engineer, China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) (Jun 2019 โ€“ Dec 2019) โ€“ Zhenjiang, China

    • Assisted in analyzing mechanical systems, conducting tests, and identifying areas for improvement.
    • Ensured safety and operational standards compliance through inspections and checks.
    • Conducted research on innovative mechanical engineering technologies and solutions.
    • Supported inspection, repair, and overhaul of mechanical systems in ships and facilities.

Research Interest

  • Reliability analysis of silicon microstructures with multilayer thin films
  • Structural design and optimization of mechanical systems
  • Mechanical failure analysis and maintenance strategies
  • Advanced materials and coatings for mechanical components

Top Noted Publication

  • Title: An Enhanced Gas Sensor Data Classification Method Using Principal Component Analysis and Synthetic Minority OverSampling Technique Algorithms
  • Authors: Zeng, X., Shahzeb, M., Cheng, X., Shen, Q., Xiao, H., Xia, C., Xia, Y., Huang, Y., Xu, J., & Wang, Z.
  • Year: 2024
  • Journal: Micromachines
  • Volume & Issue: 15(12), 1501
  • DOI: 10.3390/mi15121501

Conclusion

Muhammad Shahzeb is a promising researcher with a strong technical background, diverse professional experience, and a growing research profile. His contributions to gas sensor data classification, mechanical system optimization, and reliability analysis highlight his potential as a leading researcher in mechanical engineering.

While he has demonstrated excellence in applied research, mechanical system analysis, and cross-disciplinary innovation, further expansion in publication record, research funding, and academic collaboration would strengthen his case for a Best Researcher Award. With continued efforts in high-impact research and industry partnerships, he would be a strong contender for this recognition.