Tarek Naadia | Materials Science | Sustainable Engineering Leadership Award

Dr. Tarek Naadia | Materials Science | Sustainable Engineering Leadership Award

Lecturer researcher from Polytechnic School of Architecture and Urban Planning EPAU, Algeria

Dr. NAADIA Tarek is an accomplished Associate Professor in Civil Engineering with a specialization in the mechanics and rheology of self-compacting concrete. Holding a University Habilitation awarded in 2021 from USTHB, she is a respected teacher-researcher affiliated with the Polytechnic School of Architecture and Urbanism (EPAU) and a key member of the Civil Engineering Laboratory (LBE). Her work focuses on advancing sustainable construction materials, particularly optimizing the performance and flow properties of steel fiber reinforced self-compacting concrete using innovative experimental design techniques. Dr. Tarek’s research outputs have been published in high-impact journals, emphasizing both the mechanical and rheological characteristics of eco-friendly concrete formulations incorporating industrial by-products such as tuff and marble powders. She combines rigorous scientific methodology with practical applications that support the development of greener, more durable building materials. Throughout her academic career, Dr. Tarek has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and collaborative innovation within the civil engineering community. Her expertise aligns well with global efforts to promote sustainability in infrastructure development and materials science. Dr. Tarek’s contributions position her as a valuable leader in sustainable engineering research, with a growing impact on both regional and international levels.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. NAADIA Tarek completed her highest academic qualification with a University Habilitation in Civil Engineering, awarded on January 21, 2021, at the University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene (USTHB). This qualification represents a significant academic milestone, signifying her capability to conduct independent research, supervise doctoral students, and contribute original knowledge to her field. Her educational journey has been deeply rooted in civil engineering, with a particular focus on materials science and mechanics. Although specific earlier degrees are not listed, the habilitation level indicates advanced expertise beyond the doctoral level, underscoring her extensive research experience and academic maturity. The habilitation also reflects a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical foundations and applied techniques related to concrete rheology, material optimization, and sustainable construction technology. Her educational background equips her with the tools necessary to drive innovation in civil engineering and to influence the development of sustainable materials that address modern construction challenges. The advanced training and scholarship involved in attaining the habilitation have prepared her for a leading role in academia and research, enabling her to contribute effectively to the scientific community and to mentor future engineers.

Professional Experience

Dr. NAADIA Tarek currently serves as an Associate Professor (Class A) and a Teacher-Researcher at the Polytechnic School of Architecture and Urbanism (EPAU). She is also an active member of the Civil Engineering Laboratory (LBE) at USTHB, where she engages in research on the mechanics of materials, focusing particularly on self-compacting concrete. Her professional role involves a blend of teaching, laboratory research, and project management. As a lecturer, she contributes to civil engineering curricula, imparting knowledge on construction materials, experimental techniques, and sustainability concepts. Within the laboratory, she conducts experimental research that integrates mechanical testing and rheological measurement methods to optimize concrete formulations. Dr. Tarek’s work includes the development of new procedures for measuring concrete flow behavior and the application of design of experiments (DOE) methodologies to fine-tune mix designs for performance and environmental benefits. Her position requires collaboration with fellow researchers, students, and industry stakeholders to ensure practical relevance and innovation. Over time, she has established herself as a key figure in her department, contributing to research projects and academic advancements that enhance sustainable engineering practices in Algeria and beyond.

Research Interests

Dr. NAADIA Tarek’s primary research interests lie at the intersection of civil engineering materials, rheology, and sustainability. She specializes in the study and optimization of self-compacting concrete (SCC), focusing on both its rheological (flow) properties and mechanical performance. Her work emphasizes the development of sustainable concrete formulations that incorporate industrial by-products such as marble and tuff powders, which serve as partial replacements for traditional cement or aggregates. This approach not only improves the environmental footprint of concrete but also enhances its durability and functionality. A significant aspect of her research involves applying the design of experiments (DOE) methodology to systematically optimize the composition and performance of steel fiber reinforced self-compacting concrete (SFRSCC). This method allows for efficient exploration of multiple variables and their interactions, facilitating robust improvements in concrete quality. Dr. Tarek also investigates the rheological behavior of concrete mixtures, developing new measurement procedures to better understand their flow characteristics under various conditions. Her research contributes to sustainable construction practices by promoting materials that reduce resource consumption, waste, and energy use while improving structural integrity and longevity.

Research Skills

Dr. NAADIA Tarek possesses a comprehensive skill set tailored to experimental civil engineering research, particularly in concrete materials science. She is proficient in rheological testing methods for assessing the flow behavior of self-compacting concrete, including the design and implementation of novel measurement procedures. Her expertise extends to mechanical characterization techniques for fiber-reinforced composites, enabling detailed analysis of strength, durability, and deformation properties. She employs advanced statistical tools, notably the design of experiments (DOE) approach, to optimize material formulations systematically, which enhances research efficiency and reliability. This methodological rigor allows her to manage complex variables and interactions within concrete mix designs, leading to reproducible and scalable results. Additionally, Dr. Tarek is skilled in interpreting data to improve concrete sustainability by integrating alternative materials such as marble and tuff powders. Her laboratory experience is complemented by academic teaching, where she applies her research skills to train future engineers in experimental and analytical techniques. Collectively, these competencies support her ability to innovate within sustainable engineering and to drive research that meets both academic standards and practical industry needs.

Awards and Honors

While the CV provided does not specify particular awards or honors received by Dr. NAADIA Tarek, her attainment of the University Habilitation itself represents a prestigious academic recognition. The habilitation is a significant scholarly achievement that acknowledges her capability for independent research and academic leadership. This advanced qualification is often regarded as a benchmark of excellence within many academic systems, highlighting her contributions to civil engineering research and education. Furthermore, Dr. Tarek’s publications in high-impact journals reflect peer recognition of the quality and relevance of her work. Her growing portfolio of research articles and her position as an Associate Professor at a leading institution further attest to her professional esteem and influence within her field. For future career development, formal awards for sustainable engineering or leadership in research could complement her credentials and enhance her profile internationally. Participation in academic societies, editorial boards, or conference leadership roles may also lead to additional honors, reinforcing her position as a research leader.

Conclusion

Dr. NAADIA Tarek is a promising and dedicated civil engineering researcher with a clear focus on sustainable construction materials. Her expertise in the rheology and optimization of self-compacting concrete, combined with her use of innovative experimental design methods, positions her at the forefront of sustainable materials research. Her academic qualifications, including a University Habilitation, and her role as an Associate Professor underscore her capability for independent research and leadership within academia. Although further international collaboration and formal recognition through awards could strengthen her profile, her existing contributions demonstrate significant potential for advancing sustainable engineering practices. Dr. Tarek’s work is particularly relevant to the global imperative of reducing environmental impacts in construction, supporting the development of eco-friendly materials that are both durable and efficient. With continued research productivity and expanded engagement with the international engineering community, she is well positioned to become a leading figure in sustainable engineering research and innovation.

Publications Top Notes

  • Rheological and mechanical optimization of a steel fiber reinforced self-compacting concrete using the design of experiments method
    Authors: D Gueciouer, G Youcef, N Tarek
    Journal: European Journal of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Volume 26, Issue 3, Pages 1097-1117
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 28

  • Development of a measuring procedure of rheological behavior for self compacting concrete
    Authors: T Naadia, Y Ghernouti, D Gueciouer
    Journal: Journal of Advanced Concrete Technology, Volume 18, Issue 6, Pages 328-338
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 4

  • Rheology-compactness-granularity correlations of self-compacting concretes
    Author: T Naadia
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 1

  • Optimization of Steel Fiber-Reinforced Self-Compacting Concrete with Tuff Powder
    Authors: T Naadia, D Gueciouer
    Journal: Construction and Building Materials, Volume 474, Article 140759
    Year: 2025

  • Formulation and characterization of steel fiber reinforced self-compacting concrete (SFRSCC) based on marble powder
    Authors: T Naadia, D Gueciouer, Y Ghernouti
    Journal: Selected Scientific Paper – Journal of Civil Engineering
    Year: 2025

  • Effect of the aggregates size on the rheological behaviour of the self compacting concrete
    Authors: T Naadia, F Kharchi
    Journal: International Review of Civil Engineering (IRECE), Volume 4, Issue 2, Pages 92-97
    Year: 2013


Kun Lan | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Kun Lan | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor From Inner Mongolia University, China

Dr. Kun Lan is currently a Principal Investigator at the College of Energy Materials and Chemistry, Inner Mongolia University. With a research focus on crystalline mesoporous materials, Dr. Lan has contributed significantly to the field of materials chemistry, authoring over 70 peer-reviewed publications in top-tier journals such as Nature Chemistry, JACS, and Advanced Materials. His academic journey spans esteemed institutions including Lanzhou University, Fudan University, and the University of California, Riverside. His interdisciplinary work bridges chemistry, nanotechnology, and renewable energy applications. As head of the K Lab, he leads a team developing novel mesostructures with relevance to sustainable technologies and energy storage. Dr. Lan has earned multiple national and institutional recognitions for his research excellence, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China grants and the BTR New-Energy Scientific Contest Award. He is also an active member of the scientific community, serving on editorial boards and peer-review panels for international journals. Known for his strong mentorship, innovative approaches to porous material synthesis, and his deep engagement in academic collaboration, Dr. Lan is committed to advancing the frontiers of energy material science through both fundamental discoveries and practical innovations.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Kun Lan’s academic path began at Lanzhou University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry in 2013. During his undergraduate years, he developed a foundational understanding of chemical synthesis and material characterization, which sparked his lasting interest in functional materials. Motivated by his growing curiosity, Dr. Lan pursued his Ph.D. in Chemistry at Fudan University under the mentorship of Prof. Dongyuan Zhao, a globally recognized authority in mesoporous materials. He earned his doctorate in 2020, producing a highly cited body of work focused on the design and synthesis of crystalline mesostructures. His Ph.D. research addressed challenges in structural precision and functional integration in porous materials, contributing significantly to the understanding of mesophase control. In 2018–2019, he was a visiting doctoral student at the University of California, Riverside, where he expanded his research scope through international collaboration and exposure to cutting-edge laboratory techniques. These formative academic experiences equipped Dr. Lan with a robust scientific foundation and a global perspective, both of which continue to inform his research direction. His education has been instrumental in developing the skills and mindset necessary for tackling pressing challenges in materials chemistry and renewable technologies.

Professional Experience

Dr. Kun Lan’s professional journey is marked by a steady progression through prestigious academic and research institutions. From 2018 to 2019, he undertook a visiting research appointment at the University of California, Riverside, where he enhanced his understanding of nanomaterial assembly and characterization in an international setting. Following the completion of his Ph.D. in 2020, Dr. Lan served as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Fudan University, where he worked closely with Prof. Dongyuan Zhao. During this time, he deepened his expertise in the controlled synthesis of mesoporous materials and published extensively in high-impact journals. In June 2022, Dr. Lan joined the College of Energy Materials and Chemistry at Inner Mongolia University as a Principal Investigator, where he established the K Lab. As a PI, he leads interdisciplinary research focused on mesostructure design for energy-related applications. He mentors graduate and undergraduate students, secures competitive research funding, and actively contributes to the academic community through collaborations, peer reviews, and conference presentations. His leadership has propelled K Lab into a dynamic research environment known for innovation and academic rigor. Dr. Lan’s career reflects a dedication to scientific excellence, international collaboration, and the development of next-generation researchers in energy materials science.

Research Interests

Dr. Kun Lan’s research lies at the intersection of materials chemistry and sustainable technology, with a focus on the precision synthesis of crystalline mesoporous materials. He is particularly interested in controlling the atomic and mesostructural architecture of porous systems to enhance their performance in catalysis, energy storage, and separation technologies. His work explores the fundamental principles of assembly chemistry, aiming to understand and manipulate the self-organization of building blocks into ordered frameworks. A key objective of his research is to design novel mesostructures with high surface area, tunable porosity, and tailored functionality for renewable technology applications. These include advanced batteries, supercapacitors, and carbon capture materials. Dr. Lan is also committed to developing scalable synthetic routes that bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and industrial relevance. His interdisciplinary approach integrates concepts from solid-state chemistry, colloidal science, and nanotechnology, and often involves collaboration across chemistry, physics, and engineering domains. By addressing critical energy and environmental challenges through materials design, Dr. Lan’s research contributes to the development of sustainable technologies and green manufacturing processes. His work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the rational design of hierarchical and hybrid porous materials.

Research Skills

Dr. Kun Lan possesses a comprehensive skill set that spans advanced synthesis, structural characterization, and application testing of functional materials. He is an expert in templating strategies for constructing crystalline mesoporous materials, with extensive experience in sol–gel chemistry, surfactant-assisted assembly, and confined space synthesis. His lab proficiency includes a wide range of material characterization techniques, such as small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), N₂ adsorption-desorption isotherms, and solid-state NMR, enabling him to thoroughly investigate structural and textural properties. Dr. Lan is adept at using advanced software tools for 3D structural modeling and diffraction analysis, as well as programming for data processing. He also has hands-on experience in electrochemical testing for batteries and supercapacitors, including cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) measurements. In addition, Dr. Lan is skilled in project management, grant writing, and academic publishing, with over 70 peer-reviewed articles. He regularly collaborates with national and international research teams, and actively mentors graduate students, contributing to capacity building in materials research. His broad technical and leadership capabilities support the successful execution of interdisciplinary projects targeting energy, environmental, and catalytic applications.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Kun Lan has received numerous awards in recognition of his academic excellence and contributions to materials chemistry. His accolades began with the prestigious CSC State Scholarship Fund and the Tongji-Clearon Outstanding Academician Award in 2018. In 2019, he was honored with the Baosteel Excellent Student Award, followed by the title of Outstanding Graduate of Fudan University in 2020. His postdoctoral research earned him further distinction, including the 3rd Fudan Postdoctoral Venture Competition Award and the 1st BTR New-Energy Scientific Contest Award in 2021. In the same year, he won the Nano Research Oral Prize at the 21st Chinese Zeolite Conference and was recognized with the Excellent Doctoral Thesis Award by Fudan University in 2023. Dr. Lan has secured competitive funding from national and provincial bodies, such as the Fudan Super Postdoctoral Program, the 67th China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC). He is also supported by regional talent programs including the “Junma” Program and the Grassland Talent Program. His leadership potential has been further recognized through appointments to editorial boards and invitations to review for top-tier journals like Angewandte Chemie, Advanced Materials, and Nature Protocols.

Conclusion

Dr. Kun Lan stands at the forefront of research in mesoporous materials and their applications in renewable energy technologies. With a robust academic background, diverse international experience, and a consistent record of impactful publications, he has established himself as a dynamic and influential scientist. Through the K Lab at Inner Mongolia University, Dr. Lan continues to pursue groundbreaking work in materials chemistry, fostering innovation and collaboration across disciplines. His efforts in mentorship and scientific outreach have inspired a new generation of researchers. The breadth of his research—from fundamental studies in self-assembly to practical solutions for energy storage—demonstrates his commitment to addressing global challenges through chemistry. His extensive publication record, awards, and ongoing participation in national research programs reflect a strong and growing impact in the field. As an educator, collaborator, and innovator, Dr. Kun Lan embodies the qualities of a future scientific leader in sustainable materials research. His continued work promises to deliver valuable insights and technologies that will shape the future of energy and materials science.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Metal-based mesoporous frameworks as high-performance platforms in energy storage and conversion
    Authors: Rongyao Li, Xu Wen, Yuqi Zhao, Sicheng Fan, Qiulong Wei, Kun Lan
    Year: 2025

  2. DFT-Guided Design of Dual Dopants in Anatase TiO2 for Boosted Sodium Storage
    Authors: Shuang Li, Xu Wen, Xin Miao, Rongyao Li, Wendi Wang, Xiaoyu Li, Ziyang Guo, Dongyuan Zhao, Kun Lan
    Year: 2024

  3. Conversion of Z-Scheme to type-II in dual-defective V2O5/C3N4 heterostructure for durable hydrogen evolution
    Authors: Jingyu Zhang, Jialong Li, Jinwei He, Yalin He, Zelin Wang, Shuang Li, Zhanli Chai, Kun Lan
    Year: 2024

  4. Lanthanum-Integrated Porous Adsorbent for Effective Phosphorus Removal
    Authors: Yalin He, Xingyue Qi, Jialong Li, Wendi Wang, Jingyu Zhang, Lanhao Yang, Mei Xue, Kun Lan
    Year: 2024

  5. Ordered Mesoporous Crystalline Frameworks Toward Promising Energy Applications
    Authors: Jialong Li, Rongyao Li, Wendi Wang, Kun Lan, Dongyuan Zhao
    Year: 2024

  6. Intrinsic Surface-Redox Sodium-Ion Storage Mechanism of Anatase Titanium Oxide toward High-Rate Capability
    Authors: Kun Lan (and team, unspecified here)
    Year: 2023

  7. Nanodroplet Remodeling Strategy for Synthesis of Hierarchical Multi-chambered Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles
    Authors: Kun Lan (and team, unspecified here)
    Year: 2023

  8. Construction of Type-II Heterojunctions in Crystalline Carbon Nitride for Efficient Photocatalytic H2 Evolution
    Authors: Jingyu Zhang, Zhongliang Li, Jialong Li, Yalin He, Haojie Tong, Shuang Li, Zhanli Chai, Kun Lan
    Year: 2023

  9. Stepwise Monomicelle Assembly for Highly Ordered Mesoporous TiO2 Membranes with Precisely Tailored Mesophase and Porosity
    Authors: Kun Lan, Lu Liu, Jiayu Yu, Yuzhu Ma, Jun-Ye Zhang, Zirui Lv, Sixing Yin, Qiulong Wei, Dongyuan Zhao
    Year: 2023

  10. Constructing Unique Mesoporous Carbon Superstructures via Monomicelle Interface Confined Assembly
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2022

  11. Synthesis of Ni/NiO@MoO3-x Composite Nanoarrays for High Current Density Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2022

  12. Versatile Synthesis of Mesoporous Crystalline TiO2 Materials by Monomicelle Assembly
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2022

  13. Modular super-assembly of hierarchical superstructures from monomicelle building blocks
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2022

  14. Functional Ordered Mesoporous Materials: Present and Future
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2022

  15. Precisely Designed Mesoscopic Titania for High-Volumetric-Density Pseudocapacitance
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2021

  16. Streamlined Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles with Tunable Curvature from Interfacial Dynamic-Migration Strategy for Nanomotors
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2021

  17. General Synthesis of Ultrafine Monodispersed Hybrid Nanoparticles from Highly Stable Monomicelles
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2021

  18. Precisely Controlled Vertical Alignment in Mesostructured Carbon Thin Films for Efficient Electrochemical Sensing
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2021

  19. Surface-Confined Winding Assembly of Mesoporous Nanorods
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2020

  20. Interfacial Assembly Directed Unique Mesoporous Architectures: From Symmetric to Asymmetric
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2020

  21. Stable Ti3+ Defects in Oriented Mesoporous Titania Frameworks for Efficient Photocatalysis
    Authors: Kun Lan, Ruicong Wang, Qiulong Wei, Yanxiang Wang, Anh Hong, Pingyun Feng, Dongyuan Zhao
    Year: 2020

  22. Branched Mesoporous TiO2 Mesocrystals by Epitaxial Assembly of Micelles for Photocatalysis
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2020

  23. Synthesis of uniform ordered mesoporous TiO2 microspheres with controllable phase junctions for efficient solar water splitting
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2019

  24. Defect-engineering of mesoporous TiO2 microspheres with phase junctions for efficient visible-light driven fuel production
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2019

  25. Janus Mesoporous Sensor Devices for Simultaneous Multivariable Gases Detection
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Yar: 2019

  26. Two-Dimensional Mesoporous Heterostructure Delivering Superior Pseudocapacitive Sodium Storage via Bottom-Up Monomicelle Assembly
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2019

  27. Confined Interfacial Monomicelle Assembly for Precisely Controlled Coating of Single-Layered Titania Mesopores
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2019

  28. Confinement synthesis of hierarchical ordered macro-/mesoporous TiO2 nanostructures with high crystallization for photodegradation
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2019

  29. Fully printable hole-conductor-free mesoscopic perovskite solar cells based on mesoporous anatase single crystals
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2018

  30. Mesoporous TiO2 Microspheres with Precisely Controlled Crystallites and Architectures
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2018

  31. Mesoporous TiO2 /TiC@C Composite Membranes with Stable TiO2-C Interface for Robust Lithium Storage
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2018

  32. Uniform Ordered Two-Dimensional Mesoporous TiO2 Nanosheets from Hydrothermal-Induced Solvent-Confined Monomicelle Assembly
    Authors: Kun Lan, Yao Liu, Wei Zhang, Yong Liu, Ahmed Elzatahry, Ruicong Wang, Yongyao Xia, Dhaifallah Al-Dhayan, Nanfeng Zheng, Dongyuan Zhao
    Year: 2018

  33. Constructing Three-Dimensional Mesoporous Bouquet-Posy-like TiO2 Superstructures with Radially Oriented Mesochannels and Single-Crystal Walls
    Authors: Yong Liu, Kun Lan, Shushuang Li, Yongmei Liu, Biao Kong, Geng Wang, Pengfei Zhang, Ruicong Wang, Haili He, Yun Ling, et al.
    Year: 2016

  34. Template synthesis of metal tungsten nanowire bundles with high field electron emission performance
    Authors: Yong Liu, Kun Lan, Mahir H. Es-Saheb, Ahmed A. Elzatahry, Dongyuan Zhao
    Year: 2016

  35. Surfactant-templating strategy for ultrathin mesoporous TiO2 coating on flexible graphitized carbon supports for high-performance lithium-ion battery
    Authors: Kun Lan
    Year: 2016

  36. Ordered Macro/Mesoporous TiO2 Hollow Microspheres with Highly Crystalline Thin Shells for High-Efficiency Photoconversion
    Authors: Yong Liu, Kun Lan, Abdulaziz A. Bagabas, Pengfei Zhang, Wenjun Gao, Jingxiu Wang, Zhenkun Sun, Jianwei Fan, Ahmed A. Elzatahry, Dongyuan Zhao
    Year: 2015

  37. Mesoporous TiO2 Mesocrystals: Remarkable Defects-Induced Crystallite-Interface Reactivity and Their in Situ Conversion to Single Crystals
    Authors: Yong Liu, Yongfeng Luo, Ahmed A. Elzatahry, Wei Luo, Renchao Che, Jianwei Fan, Kun Lan, Abdullah M. Al-Enizi, Zhenkun Sun, Bin Li, et al.
    Year: 2015