Jacques Ganoulis | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Academic Achievements

Prof Dr Jacques Ganoulis | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Jacques Ganoulis , Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece  , Greece

Jacques Ganoulis (Iakovos Gkanoulis) is an eminent Greek hydrologist and civil engineer born in 1945. He is an Emeritus Professor at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), Greece, and serves as Director of the UNESCO Chair and Network INWEB. He has had a distinguished career as a senior consultant with UNESCO-IHP in Paris and has held influential roles in various international water resource management projects. Ganoulis’s expertise spans integrated water resources management, hydrological modeling, and transboundary water governance. His contributions have greatly advanced the field of water science and policy, particularly in the Balkans and Mediterranean regions.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Expertise and Experience:
    • Education: Dr. Ganoulis has a robust academic background, including multiple advanced degrees in civil engineering and hydraulics from prestigious institutions such as Paul Sabatier University and ENSEEIHT.
    • Professional Positions: His career spans various influential roles, including State Secretary for Water in Greece, Senior Consultant at UNESCO-IHP, and Director of the UNESCO Chair and Network INWEB. His involvement in high-impact positions demonstrates significant leadership and expertise.
  2. Noteworthy Contributions:
    • Research and Publications: Dr. Ganoulis has authored several influential publications on topics such as risk analysis of water pollution, transboundary water resources management, and climate change impacts. His work is widely cited and contributes significantly to the field.
    • International Impact: His involvement in international projects and consultancy roles, including work with UNESCO, UNEP, and the EU, highlights his global influence in water resources management and environmental engineering.
  3. Innovative Projects and Initiatives:
    • INWEB: Dr. Ganoulis founded the International Network of Water-Environment Centres for the Balkans (INWEB), which has been recognized by UNESCO and has significantly advanced water management and research in the Balkans.
    • EU and UNESCO Projects: His work on projects like the Dinaric Karst Transboundary Aquifer System Project and the EU TEMPUS and FP6 initiatives shows his commitment to addressing critical water management challenges through innovative solutions.
  4. Awards and Honors:
    • Recognition: Dr. Ganoulis has received several prestigious awards, including the Fulbright Fellowship, Knight of Academic Order from the French Government, and the Alexander-von-Humboldt Research Fellowship, which affirm his contributions and standing in the field.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Dissemination of Work:
    • Public Outreach: While Dr. Ganoulis has a strong academic and professional presence, increasing outreach to non-academic audiences could enhance the impact of his research and solutions. Engaging more with the public and policy-makers can help bridge the gap between research and practical application.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
    • Collaborative Projects: Expanding collaborations with researchers in related fields (e.g., social sciences, economics) could further enhance the interdisciplinary nature of his research, addressing complex water management issues from multiple perspectives.
  3. Emerging Technologies:
    • Adapting to New Technologies: Embracing and integrating emerging technologies, such as advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence, could provide new insights and solutions in water resources management and environmental risk assessment.

Education

Jacques Ganoulis holds a Ph.D. in Natural Sciences/Water Resources from Paul Sabatier University, Toulouse, France (1974). He completed his Thèse de Doctorat 3ème Cycle in Groundwater Hydraulics at ENSEEIHT, Toulouse (1971) and earned an M.Sc. in Groundwater Hydraulics from ENSEEIHT (1969). He obtained his Diploma in Civil Engineering/Hydraulics from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (1968). His academic background provides a strong foundation for his extensive career in water resource management and environmental engineering.

Experience

Ganoulis’s extensive career includes significant roles such as State Secretary for Water in Greece (2015-2019), Senior Consultant at UNESCO-IHP (2012-2015), and Professor at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (1978-2012). He has been a visiting professor and consultant globally, including roles at the University of Alabama, Technische Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, and McGill University. His work has focused on integrated water resources management, risk analysis, and capacity building, with substantial contributions to international water governance and transboundary water management.

Awards and Honors

Jacques Ganoulis has received numerous accolades, including the Fulbright Fellowship at the University of Alabama (2022) and the title “Knight of Academic Order” from the French Government (2013). He was awarded the Medal of Honorary Recognition by the Greek Hydro-Geological Association (2011) and was elected a member of the French Water Academy (2008). Ganoulis also received the Alexander-von-Humboldt Research Fellowship (1985) and ranked first in his class at AUTh (1968), reflecting his significant contributions to water science and engineering.

Research Focus

Ganoulis’s research primarily centers on integrated water resources management, hydrological modeling, and risk analysis related to water pollution and climate change. He is an expert in transboundary water management, assessing and managing water-related risks such as floods and pollution. His work emphasizes the development of professional networks for research and education, particularly in the Balkans and Mediterranean regions, and includes extensive contributions to understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources.

Publications Top Notes

  • Engineering risk analysis of water pollution: probabilities and fuzzy sets 🌊📚
  • Risk analysis of water pollution 🌍📘
  • Coping with flash floods 🌧️📖
  • Experimental investigation of shallow recirculating flows 🌊🔬
  • Mountain ecosystem services and climate change: A global overview of potential threats and strategies for adaptation 🌄🌐
  • Risk‐based floodplain management: A case study from Greece 🌊🇬🇷
  • Locating the zone of saline intrusion in a coastal karst aquifer using springflow data 🌊🗺️
  • Modelling of water pollution in the Thermaikos Gulf with fuzzy parameters 🌊🔢
  • Evaluating alternative strategies for wastewater recycling and reuse in the Mediterranean area 💧🌍
  • Risk analysis of wastewater reuse in agriculture 🌾💧
  • Phytoremediation as a prospective method for rehabilitation of areas contaminated by long-term sewage sludge storage: A Ukrainian–Greek case study 🌱🇺🇦🇬🇷
  • Climate change and its effects on water Resources: Issues of National and Global Security 🌡️🌍
  • Assessment of phytoremediation potential of native plants during the reclamation of an area affected by sewage sludge 🌿🏞️
  • Coping with floods 🌊🌍
  • Transboundary water resources management: institutional and engineering approaches 🌏🔧
  • Involving stakeholders in transboundary water resource management: The Mesta/Nestos ‘HELP’ basin 🌍🤝
  • Transboundary water resources management: a multidisciplinary approach 🌐🔬
  • Water resources management and environmental security in Mediterranean transboundary river basins 🌍🛡️
  • Water resources engineering risk assessment 🌊📉
  • Overexploitation and contamination of shared groundwater resources: management, (Bio) technological, and political approaches to avoid conflicts 🌍💧

Conclusion

Jacques Ganoulis is highly deserving of the “Best Researcher Award” due to his extensive expertise, impactful contributions, and significant international influence in water resources management and environmental engineering. His pioneering work, especially in risk analysis, transboundary water resources management, and education, demonstrates a profound commitment to advancing the field. By addressing the areas for improvement, such as enhancing public outreach and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Ganoulis could further amplify the impact of his remarkable research contributions.

 

Jacob Bortman | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Academic Achievements

Prof. Jacob Bortman | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Head of PHM Lab at Ben Gurion University, Israel

Jacob Bortman, a distinguished figure in mechanical engineering and aerospace technology, brings a wealth of expertise to his work. His career spans extensive research in advanced modeling techniques, computational mechanics, and vibration-based condition monitoring. With a focus on structural integrity and nonlinear analysis, Jacob has advanced the field through his application of the p-version of the finite element method, particularly in analyzing fastened structural connections. His contributions extend to materials science, where he explores the mechanical properties of engineering materials using rigorous finite element analysis. Jacob’s interdisciplinary approach integrates theory with practical applications, addressing complex challenges in aerospace engineering and beyond. Recognized for his teaching excellence and leadership, he continues to influence both academic research and practical innovations in mechanical engineering, leaving a lasting impact on the field.

Professional Profiles

Education

Jacob Bortman completed his B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering at Tel Aviv University from 1978 to 1982, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a GPA of 92. He continued at Tel Aviv University for his M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from 1983 to 1984, with a thesis titled “Extended Weight Function Method Analysis of a Mixed Mode Fracture Specimen” under the supervision of Prof. Leslie Banks-Sills, achieving a GPA of 96.5 and Summa Cum Laude honors. He earned his D.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA, from 1988 to 1991. His doctoral thesis, “Nonlinear Models for Fastened Structural Connection Based on the p-Version of the Finite Element Method,” was supervised by Prof. Barna Szabo. He graduated with an A+ GPA and was awarded Summa Cum Laude honors.

Professional Experience

Jacob Bortman brings a wealth of expertise and leadership from both military and academic realms. Serving in the Israeli Air Force (IAF) from 1981 to 2009, he retired as a Brigadier General, having held pivotal roles such as Head of Material Directorate and Head of Aircraft Department. His military career underscores his deep commitment to aerospace engineering and operational leadership. Since 2010, Jacob has been a Full Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel. His academic contributions are substantial, focusing on areas such as structural integrity, fatigue, and damage tolerance. He also holds editorial positions in prominent journals and has been involved in consulting for Israel Aerospace Industries and various tech startups. Throughout his career, Jacob Bortman has garnered accolades, including the Israeli National Defense Prize and the Prime Minister’s National Prize for Excellence in Public Service. His dedication to advancing mechanical engineering and aerospace technology is evident in his extensive professional achievements and leadership roles.

Research Interest

Jacob Bortman’s research interests encompass a broad spectrum of mechanical engineering disciplines, with a primary focus on structural integrity, fatigue, and damage tolerance. His work delves into advanced modeling techniques and nonlinear analysis methods for fastened structural connections, utilizing the p-version of the finite element method. Additionally, he explores vibration-based condition monitoring and its applications in engineering management. Jacob’s research extends into the realms of aerospace engineering, particularly in the development of innovative solutions for aircraft maintenance and structural reliability. He is deeply engaged in the study of computational mechanics, exploring its applications in enhancing the performance and longevity of mechanical systems. His multidisciplinary approach integrates theoretical insights with practical applications, aiming to advance the understanding and implementation of robust engineering practices. Through his research, Jacob Bortman contributes significantly to the fields of mechanical engineering and aerospace technology, addressing critical challenges in structural design, maintenance optimization, and materials science.

Award and Honors

Jacob Bortman has garnered numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout his illustrious career. In 2022, he was nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award of the PHM Society, a testament to his profound contributions to Prognostics and Health Management. His leadership in a strategic program at Israel Aerospace Industries earned him the Israeli National Defense Prize in 2020, highlighting his pivotal role in advancing national defense technology. Recognized as an Outstanding Lecturer in 2016 at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Jacob is celebrated for his excellence in teaching and mentorship. His distinguished service in the Israeli Air Force was honored with the Israeli Prime Minister’s National Prize for Excellence and Quality in Public Service in 1992, and he received a Special Note for Excellence in 1988 from the IAF. These accolades underscore Jacob Bortman’s exceptional achievements and lasting impact in mechanical engineering, aerospace technology, and beyond.

Research Skills

Jacob Bortman is highly skilled in advanced modeling techniques and computational mechanics, specializing in structural integrity and nonlinear analysis. His proficiency in the p-version of the finite element method has enabled him to conduct detailed analyses of fastened structural connections and mechanical behaviors. With a focus on aerospace engineering, Jacob’s expertise extends to vibration-based condition monitoring, essential for optimizing maintenance strategies and ensuring structural reliability. He has contributed significantly to materials science research, particularly in understanding the mechanical properties of engineering materials through finite element analysis. Jacob’s interdisciplinary approach integrates theoretical insights with practical applications, addressing complex engineering challenges with innovative solutions. His research not only enhances academic knowledge but also fosters advancements in practical engineering solutions, making a profound impact in the fields of mechanical engineering and aerospace technology.

Publications

  1. Title: A systematic literature review of deep learning for vibration-based fault diagnosis of critical rotating machinery: Limitations and challenges
    • Authors: Matania, O.; Dattner, I.; Bortman, J.; Kenett, R.S.; Parmet, Y.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Journal of Sound and Vibration
  2. Title: Development of an Operational Digital Twin of a Freight Car Braking System for Fault Diagnosis
    • Authors: Davidyan, G.; Bortman, J.; Kenett, R.S.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Advanced Theory and Simulations
  3. Title: A novel method for helical gear modeling with experimental validation
    • Authors: Cohen, R.; Bachar, L.; Matania, O.; Klein, R.; Bortman, J.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Nonlinear Dynamics
  4. Title: Dynamic behavior of large faults toward severity estimation in bearings
    • Authors: Madar, E.; Sol, A.; Klein, R.; Bortman, J.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Structural Health Monitoring
  5. Title: Signal Processing for the Condition-Based Maintenance of Rotating Machines via Vibration Analysis: A Tutorial
    • Authors: Matania, O.; Bachar, L.; Bechhoefer, E.; Bortman, J.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Sensors
  6. Title: Digital Twin of a Gear Root Crack Prognosis
    • Authors: Matania, O.; Bechhoefer, E.; Bortman, J.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Sensors
  7. Title: Development of an Operational Digital Twin of a Locomotive Parking Brake for Fault Diagnosis
    • Authors: Davidyan, G.; Bortman, J.; Kenett, R.S.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Scientific Reports
    • Citations: 2
  8. Title: A novel hybrid physical AI-based strategy for fault severity estimation in spur gears with zero-shot learning
    • Authors: Bachar, L.; Matania, O.; Cohen, R.; Lipsett, M.G.; Bortman, J.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing
    • Citations: 2
  9. Title: Predicting ductile failure of aluminum components under general loading conditions: Computational implementation, model verification and experimental validation
    • Authors: Rom, N.; Bortman, J.; Priel, E.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: International Journal of Solids and Structures
    • Citations: 3
  10. Title: Toward diagnostics of water-lubricated bearings of naval vessels by vibration analysis
    • Authors: Matania, O.; Heletz, S.; Klein, R.; Groper, M.; Bortman, J.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Structural Health Monitoring
    • Citations: 1