Humaira Athar | Environmental and Sustainable Materials | Innovative Research Award

Innovative Research Award

Humaira Athar
CBRI–Central Building Research Institute, India
Humaira Athar
Affiliation CBRI–Central Building Research Institute
Country India
Scopus ID 57203536034
Documents 7
Citations 43
h-index 2
Subject Area Environmental and Sustainable Materials
Event Global Innovation Technologist Awards
ORCID 0000-0002-0883-6684

Humaira Athar is associated with the CBRI–Central Building Research Institute in India and has contributed to interdisciplinary studies spanning sustainable construction materials, hydraulic engineering, and environmental technologies. Her research interests include carbon capture utilization and storage, waste utilization, translucent concrete, and river hydraulics. Through a combination of applied engineering investigations and environmentally focused materials research, Athar has contributed to emerging discussions on sustainable infrastructure development and resource-efficient construction systems.[1]

Abstract

The academic and technical contributions of Humaira Athar reflect an interdisciplinary approach to environmental sustainability and civil engineering research. Her studies have examined issues related to river hydraulics, bridge pier scouring, deposition behavior in hydraulic systems, and environmentally sustainable material applications. Athar’s work also highlights interest in innovative construction materials and waste utilization methods aligned with sustainable development goals. The combination of engineering analysis and environmental awareness positions her research profile within emerging domains of sustainable infrastructure and resilient building technologies.[2]

Keywords

Carbon capture utilization, translucent concrete, sustainable construction, hydraulic engineering, river hydraulics, waste utilization, environmental materials, bridge scour analysis.

Introduction

Research in environmental and sustainable materials has become increasingly important in addressing global infrastructure challenges and climate adaptation strategies. Scholars working within this field frequently combine material innovation with engineering analysis to improve structural durability and environmental performance. Humaira Athar’s work contributes to this evolving academic landscape through studies focused on hydraulic behavior, sustainable resource utilization, and advanced construction technologies.[3]

Research Profile

Athar’s research profile demonstrates engagement with both theoretical and applied engineering sciences. Her affiliation with the Central Building Research Institute has supported investigations into construction sustainability and hydraulic infrastructure performance. Research themes associated with her publications include sediment transport, scour analysis around bridge structures, deposition patterns in meandering channels, and the use of sustainable materials for future-ready construction systems.[4]

Research Contributions

  • Contributed to hydraulic engineering studies concerning bridge pier scouring and flow interaction effects.
  • Participated in research on bends, scour, and deposition behavior around causeways in river systems.
  • Explored environmentally sustainable approaches related to translucent concrete and waste utilization.
  • Supported interdisciplinary discussions involving environmental materials and sustainable infrastructure development.

Publications

  • Effect of Mutual Interference of Bridge Piers on Scouring in Meandering Channel (2022).
  • Effect of bends on scour and deposition around causeways (2021).
  • Studies on carbohydrate metabolism in lizards (1972).
  • Oxygen consumption by liver and kidney slices of Uromastix hardwickii (1972).

Research Impact

The documented citation record associated with Athar’s scholarly profile indicates continuing academic engagement with her published work. Her contributions in hydraulic engineering and sustainable materials research support broader scientific efforts aimed at improving infrastructure resilience and environmental responsibility. The interdisciplinary nature of her studies also reflects the increasing convergence between environmental science and civil engineering innovation.[5]

Award Suitability

Humaira Athar’s profile aligns with the objectives of the Global Innovation Technologist Awards due to her engagement with environmentally sustainable engineering practices and applied infrastructure research. Her work demonstrates an emphasis on innovation within construction materials, hydraulic system analysis, and resource-conscious engineering methodologies. Such contributions are relevant to international discussions on sustainable technological advancement and infrastructure modernization.[6]

Conclusion

The scholarly activities of Humaira Athar illustrate a multidisciplinary approach integrating environmental sustainability, hydraulic engineering, and innovative construction materials research. Through published studies and technical investigations, her work contributes to ongoing scientific conversations surrounding sustainable infrastructure and environmentally responsible engineering practices. Her academic profile represents continued participation in research areas that support future-oriented technological and environmental solutions.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Humaira Athar, Author ID 57203536034. Scopus.
    www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57203536034
  2. Athar, M., Azam, S., & Athar, H. (2022). Effect of Mutual Interference of Bridge Piers on Scouring in Meandering Channel. Hydro Science & Marine Engineering.
    https://journals.bilpubgroup.com/index.php/hsme/article/view/4692
  3. Athar, M., Saluja, I.S., & Athar, H. (2021). Effect of bends on scour and deposition around causeways. River Hydraulics Conference Proceedings.
    https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-81768-8_32
  4. ORCID. (n.d.). Humaira Athar ORCID record.
    orcid.org/0000-0002-0883-6684
  5. Ali Athar, H.S., Hasnain, S.N., & Zain-Ul-Abedin, M. (1972). Studies on carbohydrate metabolism in lizards. Zeitschrift für Naturforschung B.
    doi.org/10.1515/znb-1972-1227
  6. Global Innovation Technologist Awards. (n.d.). Award nomination and evaluation criteria.
    innovationtechnologist.com

Ashish Ranjan Dash | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ashish Ranjan Dash | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Centurion University of Technology and Management | India

Dr. Ashish Ranjan Dash is a highly accomplished academic and researcher in the field of electrical engineering, specializing in power electronics, multilevel inverters, and power quality improvement. With a proven track record in research, teaching, and project leadership, he has significantly contributed to advancements in smart infrastructure, renewable energy systems, and IoT-enabled agricultural automation. He has also played a pivotal role in supervising doctoral students, developing innovative solutions for industrial applications, and leading consultancy projects for technology-driven agriculture and smart systems.

Publication Profile 

Scopus

Google Scholar

Educational Background 

Dr. Dash earned his Ph.D. in Power Electronics from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela, focusing on cascaded multilevel inverter-based shunt active filters under varying grid voltage conditions. He also holds an M.Tech. in Power Control and Drives from NIT Rourkela, where his dissertation explored control strategies for grid-connected inverter systems during fault conditions. His academic foundation is further strengthened by a B.Tech. in Electrical Engineering and a Diploma in Electrical Engineering, complemented by a strong record of academic excellence throughout his studies.

Professional Experience 

With over a decade of academic and research experience, Dr. Dash serves as an Associate Professor at Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha. His prior roles include research and academic positions in engineering colleges and at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. He has held key administrative positions such as Dean and Associate Dean of the School of Engineering and CEO of the Smart Infrastructure Research Center, where he has led interdisciplinary projects integrating IoT, automation, and renewable energy systems.

Research Interests 

His research focuses on power electronics, multilevel inverter design, power quality enhancement, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, smart grid systems, and IoT-enabled automation. He also works extensively on agricultural automation, including polyhouse automation, speed breeding chambers, and plant phenotyping systems. Emerging interests include machine learning applications for plant disease detection, robotics, and smart farming technologies.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Dash has received multiple accolades, including the Distinguished Achiever Award at the Provost Research Awards and recognition as a session chair at IEEE international conferences. He is the founder of a technology-driven startup and actively engages in professional communities such as the IEEE Power Electronics Society, IEEE Industry Applications Society, and IEEE SIGHT.

Research Skills 

He possesses strong expertise in the design, modeling, and implementation of cascaded multilevel inverters, power quality control algorithms, and renewable energy integration. His skills extend to IoT-based system design, automation technologies, electric vehicle charging systems, and cloud-based agricultural monitoring. He is also an experienced reviewer for several high-impact international journals in power electronics and smart grid applications.

Publications 

A unified control of grid-interactive off-board EV battery charger with improved power quality

Citations: 49

Year: 2022

Reactive power compensation using vehicle-to-grid enabled bidirectional off-board EV battery charger

Citations: 34

Year: 2021

Adaptive LMBP training‐based icosϕ control technique for DSTATCOM

Citations: 33

Year: 2020

Analysis of PI and PR controllers for distributed power generation system under unbalanced grid faults

Citations: 33

Year: 2011

Design and implementation of a cascaded transformer coupled multilevel inverter‐based shunt active filter under different grid voltage conditions

Citations: 24

Year: 2019

Conclusion 

Dr. Ashish Ranjan Dash is a forward-looking researcher and educator whose work bridges advanced power electronics with practical applications in smart infrastructure and agricultural automation. His multidisciplinary expertise, leadership in funded projects, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of engineers make him a valuable contributor to both academia and industry. His continued research promises innovative advancements in electric mobility, renewable energy integration, and intelligent automation systems.

Veronica Ngunzi | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Veronica Ngunzi | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Tutorial Fellow at Kenyatta University, Kenya

Veronica Kavila Ngunzi is an experienced professional and educator with over a decade of expertise in renewable energy systems, energy efficiency, and program management. She has an in-depth understanding of Kenya’s power sector, including energy planning, socio-economic data analysis, and the role of development finance in advancing clean energy access. Her work focuses on sustainable energy solutions for critical sectors such as healthcare and agriculture, integrating technical expertise with community empowerment initiatives. She is skilled in energy auditing, hybrid systems design, and capacity-building programs, making significant contributions to the transition to clean energy in Kenya and beyond.

Publication Profile 

Scopus

Orcid

Educational Background 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Renewable Energy Technology (Ongoing) – Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya (2021 – Present)
  • Ph.D. in Agricultural Processing Engineering (Ongoing) – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (2020 – Present)
  • M.Sc. in Energy Management – University of Nairobi (2015)
  • B.Sc. in Agricultural Engineering (Double Degree, Second Class Upper Division) – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (2018)
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management (Upper Credit) – Kenya Institute of Management (2012)
  • B.Sc. in Biomechanical and Processing Engineering (Second Class Upper Division) – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (2009)

Professional Experience 💼

Academic Roles

  • Tutorial Fellow, Kenyatta University, Department of Energy Technology (2020–Present)
    • Teaching and supervising courses in Energy Management, Thermodynamics, and Project Management.
    • Leading research on renewable energy solutions for healthcare and community-focused applications.
    • Guiding students on projects related to Kenya’s energy sector.

Research & Consulting

  • Research Assistant, Free Appropriate Sustainability Technology (FAST) Research Group, Western University Canada (2023–2024)

    • Conducted research on hybrid renewable energy systems for industrial applications.
    • Collaborated with global teams to develop scalable, sustainable clean energy solutions.
  • Energy Consultant (Freelance) – Kenya (2015–2023)

    • Conducted energy audits for industrial and agricultural facilities.
    • Designed hybrid renewable energy systems for critical sectors.
    • Engaged stakeholders to align energy solutions with national planning goals.

Leadership & Advisory Roles

  • Mentor, Women in Energy Empowerment, Accelerating Women’s Empowerment in Energy Program (2024 – Ongoing)

    • Mentoring women in STEM and renewable energy careers.
    • Conducting workshops to promote gender equity in the energy sector.
  • Technical Advisor & Project Team Leader, Milken-Motsepe Prize in Green Energy (2023)

    • Led the implementation of a hybrid solar PV and wind energy system with battery storage.
    • Achieved semifinalist recognition for innovative clean energy solutions.
  • Project Lead, Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC) & GIZ (2015–2017)

    • Led a bioenergy analysis project for 30 tea factories, identifying energy-saving opportunities.
  • Trainer, Ministry of Energy Kenya & UNDP (2017)

    • Developed and implemented a solar water heating training manual for Kenyan industries.
  • Researcher, Ministry of Higher Education Science & Technology (2012–2016)

    • Conducted research on biogas resource assessment and purification for household applications.

Research Interests 🔬

  • Renewable energy systems (solar PV, biogas, hybrid systems)
  • Energy efficiency and sector planning
  • Sustainable energy solutions for healthcare and agriculture
  • Socio-economic impacts of clean energy adoption
  • Gender and community empowerment in energy access

Awards and Honors🏆✨

  • Semifinalist, Milken-Motsepe Prize in Green Energy (2023)
  • UNESCO Mentorship Recognition, Accelerating Women’s Empowerment in Energy (2024)
  • Research Grant Recipient, Free Appropriate Sustainability Technology (FAST) Research Group

Conclusion🌟

Veronica Kavila Ngunzi is a dedicated researcher, educator, and renewable energy specialist committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions in Kenya and beyond. With expertise spanning energy policy, hybrid systems, and socio-economic data analysis, she has played a pivotal role in shaping inclusive and impactful energy transitions. Through research, mentorship, and technical innovation, she continues to drive progress in clean energy accessibility and gender equity in the sector.

Publications 📚

📄 Optimization of economics of biomass fuel mix for boilers in tea processing through response surface methodology
📚 Heliyon (2024-12) | 🏛️ Journal article
🔗 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e40875
✍️ Contributors: Veronica K. Ngunzi, Christopher L. Kanali, Gareth M. Kituu, Erick K. Ronoh


📄 Modeling, simulation and performance evaluation of a PVT system for the Kenyan manufacturing sector
📚 Heliyon (2023-08) | 🏛️ Journal article
🔗 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18823
✍️ Contributors: Veronica Ngunzi, Francis Njoka, Robert Kinyua


📄 Analysis of Energy Cost Savings by Substituting Heavy Fuel Oil with Alternative Fuel for a Pozzolana Dryer: Case Study of Bamburi Cement
📚 American Journal of Energy Engineering (2015) | 🏛️ Journal article
🔗 DOI: 10.11648/j.ajee.20150306.13
📖 ISSN: 2329-1648