Burak Çırağ | Civil Engineering | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Burak Çırağ | Civil Engineering | Young Scientist Award

Research Assistant | Atatürk University | Turkey

Burak Çırağ is a research assistant at Atatürk University, specializing in hydraulic engineering within the Department of Civil Engineering. His research focuses on stormwater drainage systems, flood performance, and the optimization of water management strategies. With an extensive background in environmental engineering and hydraulic modeling, Çırağ is actively contributing to national and international projects related to flood management and sustainable drainage systems. His academic journey is marked by rigorous research and an unwavering commitment to advancing water resource management techniques.

Profile

Scopus

Education
Burak Çırağ completed his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering in June 2018, followed by a master’s degree with a thesis titled “Evaluation of Flood Performance in Stormwater Drainage Systems” under the guidance of Mahmut Fırat in 2021. He is currently pursuing his doctoral studies, delving deeper into optimizing stormwater systems and flood control mechanisms. Throughout his academic tenure, Çırağ has cultivated a strong foundation in hydrology, hydraulic modeling, and environmental engineering.

Experience
Since February 2020, Burak Çırağ has been serving as a research assistant in the Civil Engineering Department at Atatürk University, focusing on hydraulic systems and stormwater management. He has contributed to several national research projects, including evaluating the performance of stormwater drainage systems and exploring optimization algorithms for stormwater network planning. Çırağ is also involved in hydrodynamic modeling and flood behavior analysis in the Karasu Basin. These research initiatives are part of larger efforts to advance flood prediction and water management technologies.

Research Interests
Çırağ’s primary research interests lie in hydraulic engineering, particularly in the analysis and optimization of stormwater drainage systems. He focuses on flood modeling, performance evaluation, and sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS). Additionally, his work explores the impact of land use and surface runoff on flood propagation. Çırağ is committed to understanding and mitigating flood risks in urban environments through advanced modeling techniques and the development of optimized drainage strategies.

Awards
Burak Çırağ has received a Certificate in Data Protection and Privacy (KVKK) from Atatürk University in June 2022, recognizing his commitment to professional development in security and legal matters. While his focus remains on research and academic growth, his contributions have garnered attention within national scientific communities.

Publications

  1. Çırağ, B., & Fırat, M. (2023). Two-dimensional (2D) flood analysis and calibration of stormwater drainage systems using geographic information systems. Water Science and Technology, 87(10), 2596. [DOI: 10.2166/wst.2023.126]
  2. Çırağ, B., & Fırat, M. (2023). Investigation of failures occurring in stormwater drainage systems according to system characteristics and spatial variation. International Ecology and Environment Congress, 41-52.
  3. Çırağ, B., & Fırat, M. (2023). Flood analysis of conventional stormwater drainage systems and examples of urban sustainable drainage systems. International Ecology and Environment Congress, 31-41.
  4. Çırağ, B., Fırat, M., & Aydın, Ö. (2021). Analysis of the flood performance of stormwater drainage systems for different return periods. 4th International Conference of Contemporary Affairs in Architecture and Urbanism, 774-785.
  5. Taşkolu, İ., Acar, R., & Çırağ, B. (2024). Trend analysis of precipitation and temperatures in the Black Sea region using the innovative trend analysis. Journal of Studies in Advanced Technologies, 2(2), 74-82. [DOI: 10.63063/jsat.1505540]
  6. Çırağ, B., & Fırat, M. (2022). Evaluation of land use types and surface runoff effects in flood propagation maps: A case study of Malatya Province. Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University Journal of Engineering Sciences, 25(3), 222-236.
  7. Çırağ, B., Taşkolu, İ., Acar, R., Fırat, M., & Şengül, S. (2024). Evaluation of trends in precipitation and temperature values alongside land use/cover changes: A case study of Erzurum Province. XII. National Hydrology Congress, 384-393.

Conclusion
Burak Çırağ is a dedicated researcher committed to advancing the field of hydraulic engineering, particularly in stormwater management and flood mitigation. His work, which bridges academic theory and practical application, aims to enhance water resource management and reduce flood risks in urban settings. Through his extensive research, publications, and contributions to national and international projects, Çırağ is making significant strides toward creating sustainable water management systems that can be adapted to the growing challenges posed by climate change and urbanization. His academic and professional achievements reflect a future leader in environmental engineering.

Zhi Huang | Structural Engineering | Best Paper Award

Assoc Prof. Dr. Zhi Huang | Structural Engineering | Best Paper Award

Dean | Hunan University of Science and Technology | China

 

Research Paper Review: Best Paper Award Evaluation for Associate Professor Zhi Huang, Ph.D., P.E.

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contributions: Associate Professor Zhi Huang has demonstrated an impressive breadth of research in the field of structural engineering, particularly in seismic performance and composite structures. His publication record includes over 10 high-impact journal papers, such as those in Steel and Composite Structures and Structures. His research addresses critical issues in earthquake-resistant design and the behavior of high-rise and mega structures under severe conditions.
  2. Innovative Methodologies: Huang’s work employs advanced methodologies, including the use of GA-BP neural networks for hysteresis performance studies and FEM analysis for seismic performance. This indicates a strong commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into his research, enhancing the practical relevance and accuracy of his findings.
  3. Significant Research Funding: The substantial grants from prestigious sources like the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation underscore the high value and impact of Huang’s research. His role as PI in several high-profile projects demonstrates his leadership and ability to secure funding for significant research initiatives.
  4. Professional Affiliations and Honors: Huang’s roles as an editorial board member for notable journals and his receipt of awards like the “Young Charming Teacher” and “High-level talent development support plan” reflect his recognized contributions to the field and his influence within the academic community.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Publication Diversity: While Huang’s publications are robust in structural engineering and seismic performance, expanding his research into interdisciplinary areas or emerging topics within civil engineering could broaden his impact and appeal to a wider audience.
  2. Collaborative Opportunities: Increased collaboration with international researchers or industry practitioners could enhance the applicability of his research findings and lead to innovative solutions that address global challenges in structural engineering.
  3. Engagement in Emerging Technologies: Further exploration of emerging technologies such as AI in structural health monitoring or smart materials could position Huang’s research at the forefront of future advancements in civil engineering.
  4. Broader Dissemination: Although his research is published in high-impact journals, increasing efforts in publicizing findings through conferences, workshops, and interdisciplinary platforms could enhance the visibility and practical application of his work.

Conclusion:

Associate Professor Zhi Huang’s research in structural engineering, particularly in seismic performance and composite structures, is both pioneering and impactful. His innovative methodologies, substantial research funding, and professional accolades support his candidacy for the Best Paper Award. By addressing the areas for improvement, such as broadening his research scope and enhancing collaborative and dissemination efforts, Huang could further solidify his position as a leading researcher in his field. Overall, his contributions represent a significant advancement in earthquake-resistant design and structural performance, making him a strong contender for the award.

Biography

Associate Professor Zhi Huang, Ph.D., P.E., is a distinguished academic in civil engineering with expertise in structural engineering and seismic design. Currently serving at Hunan University of Science and Technology, Dr. Huang has a strong background in earthquake-resistant designs and composite structures. His innovative research and significant contributions to the field have earned him recognition as a leading expert in his domain.

Profile

SCOPUS

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Civil Engineering (Structural Engineering)
    Central South University, China (Sept. 2011 – Dec. 2017)
    Advisor: Jiang Lizhong
  • Ph.D. Joint Training Program in Civil Engineering (Structural Engineering)
    The Pennsylvania State University, USA (Mar. 2015 – Apr. 2016)
    Advisor: Y. Frank Chen
  • M.S. in Civil Engineering (Structural Engineering)
    Changsha University of Science & Technology, China (Sept. 2008 – June 2011)
    Advisor: Lei Guangyu
  • B.E. in Civil Engineering
    Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, China (Sept. 2004 – June 2008)

Experience 🏆

Dr. Huang has served as an Associate Professor and Lecturer at the School of Civil Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology, since 2017. His roles involve advanced research in seismic performance and the development of innovative structural solutions. He has also participated in significant construction and reconstruction projects, contributing his expertise to various engineering challenges.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Huang’s research focuses on:

  • Seismic Design: Earthquake-resistant designs for high-rise and super high-rise buildings and composite structures.
  • Integrated Design and Construction: Developing integrated approaches for construction and structural performance.
  • Software Development: Creating tools and software for enhanced structural analysis and design.

Awards 🏅

  • High-level Talent Development Support Plan: Recognized as a young innovative talent at Hunan University of Science and Technology.
  • Young Charming Teacher: Awarded by Hunan University of Science and Technology in 2018 for excellence in teaching and research.

Publications 📚

  1. Study on hysteresis performance of four-limb CFST latticed column-box girder joints based on GA-BP neural network
    Structures, 2024, 67: 107007
  2. Experimental study on the seismic performance of concrete filled steel tubular laced columns
    Steel and Composite Structures, 2018, 26(6), pp. 719-731
  3. Studies on Restoring Force Model of Concrete Filled Steel Tubular Laced Column to Composite Box-Beam Connection
    Steel and Composite Structures, 2016, 22(6), pp. 1217-1238
  4. Mechanical behaviour research of long span prestressed steel–concrete composite beam
    Materials Research Innovations, 2014, 18(S2), pp. 28-32
  5. Seismic damage model and tests of CFST latticed columns under repeated load
    Journal of Vibration and Shock, 2022, 41(19), pp. 163-170
  6. Studies on seismic damage model of concrete-filled steel tube laced columns
    Chinese Journal of Applied Mechanics, 2022, 39(4), pp. 717-725
  7. Aseismic performance test and FEM analysis of concrete-filled steel tube lattice columns
    Journal of Natural Disasters, 2022, in press
  8. Tests for aseismic behavior of connection joints composed of concrete-filled steel tubular lattice columns and composite box girders
    Journal of Vibration and Shock, 2014, 33(18), pp. 156-163
  9. Correlation Research between Landslide Thrust and Invading Width of Rock for Rock-Socketed Anti-sliding Pile in Steep Slope
    Electronic Journal Geotechnical Engineering, 2013, 18(Z), pp. 5957-5966
  10. Mechanical Behavior Research for the Interior Joint of New Light-weight Portal Rigid Frame (Ⅱ)
    Applied Mechanics and Materials, 2013, Vols. 351-352, pp. 454-459