Xiaoqing Tian | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaoqing Tian | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Hangzhou Dianzi University | China

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian is an accomplished academic and researcher currently serving as an Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, China. With a strong foundation in hydrodynamics and its applications, she has made significant contributions to the development of underwater vehicles, propeller systems, and marine engineering innovations. Her educational background combines rigorous training in fluid machinery, mechanical engineering, and international research exposure, enabling her to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical technological advancements. Dr. Tian’s research excellence is evidenced by her extensive portfolio of patents, including more than ten granted patents such as a U.S. and Luxembourg patent, along with over twenty high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals. Her work emphasizes hydrodynamic optimization, underwater robotics, and environmental applications, fostering solutions that bridge engineering challenges with sustainable maritime practices. Beyond her academic achievements, she has been recognized as a Zhejiang Province Overseas High-level Talent, a D-type Talent of Zhejiang Province, and a Qiantang Scholar of Hangzhou, reflecting her influence and leadership in her field. With a career that blends innovation, teaching, and applied research, Dr. Tian stands as a leading figure in advancing the boundaries of marine and mechanical engineering technologies.D

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian’s academic journey reflects a progressive and multidisciplinary approach to engineering, combining mechanical, electrical, and hydrodynamic expertise. She began her studies with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical & Electrical Engineering from the Henan Institute of Science and Technology, China. where she developed a foundational understanding of integrated engineering systems. Building on this, she earned a Master’s degree in Fluid Machinery and Engineering from the College of Mechanical Engineering at Hangzhou Dianzi University, China. focusing on fluid dynamics and mechanical system design. Her doctoral studies at the College of Water Conservancy and Hydropower Engineering, Hohai University, China. centered on advanced topics in fluid machinery and engineering, deepening her expertise in hydrodynamic modeling and marine applications. Notably, between, she conducted international research at the University of Helsinki, Finland, specializing in hydrodynamics and its environmental applications. This overseas experience broadened her perspective, allowing her to collaborate with global experts and explore the cross-disciplinary impacts of fluid mechanics on environmental science. Collectively, her academic background equips her with the technical knowledge, analytical skills, and global outlook necessary to address complex engineering challenges in both theoretical and applied contexts.

Professional Experience

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian has built an impressive professional career that blends teaching, research, and innovation in marine and mechanical engineering. Since December, she has served as a Lecturer and later an Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, China, where she teaches core engineering subjects, supervises graduate students, and leads research projects in hydrodynamics and underwater vehicle design. Her role involves both academic instruction and the development of innovative technologies aimed at solving practical engineering problems. she expanded her research portfolio through a postdoctoral position at the Ocean College, Zhejiang University, China, where she worked on advanced projects involving underwater robotics, propulsion systems, and hydrodynamic performance optimization. she undertook international research at the Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland, focusing on hydrodynamics applications in environmental and water systems. This combination of domestic and international experience has enabled her to cultivate a global research network, collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, and translate academic research into real-world engineering solutions. Her professional trajectory reflects a dedication to advancing knowledge while fostering innovation in marine engineering technology.

Research Interests

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian’s research interests span a wide range of topics in hydrodynamics, marine engineering, and mechanical design, with a strong emphasis on practical applications in underwater technologies. Her primary focus lies in the optimization of hydrodynamic performance for underwater vehicles and propulsion systems, including autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and towed bodies. She is particularly interested in the integration of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations with experimental testing to enhance propulsion efficiency, stability, and maneuverability. Her work also explores the development of novel propeller designs and hydrophobic coatings to improve performance in marine environments. Beyond vehicle propulsion, Dr. Tian investigates underwater sensing systems, such as magnetometer-equipped towed bodies, to support oceanographic surveys and environmental monitoring. She is also engaged in research on water quality improvement technologies, including artificially induced downwelling aeration systems. Her interdisciplinary approach allows her to bridge mechanical engineering principles with environmental science applications, ensuring that her innovations contribute to both technological advancement and sustainable marine resource management. By combining numerical modeling, prototype development, and field testing, Dr. Tian addresses real-world maritime challenges while advancing the scientific understanding of hydrodynamic systems.

Research Skills

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian possesses a robust set of research skills that enable her to conduct high-quality and impactful studies in marine and mechanical engineering. Her expertise includes hydrodynamic modeling, propeller performance analysis, and underwater vehicle design, supported by advanced use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools. She has strong capabilities in designing and optimizing propulsion systems, integrating novel features such as hydrophobic coatings and guide flow devices to enhance efficiency. Dr. Tian is experienced in the development and testing of underwater towed bodies, including those equipped with environmental sensing devices like magnetometers. Her skills extend to mechanical system prototyping, laboratory experimentation, and large-scale field trials, ensuring that her work bridges theoretical models with real-world performance. In addition to technical competencies, she is proficient in patent development, having secured more than ten patents, including international ones, as the first inventor. Her research methodology combines creativity, precision, and multidisciplinary collaboration, enabling her to work across engineering, oceanography, and environmental science domains. Furthermore, her ability to manage complex projects, lead research teams, and publish extensively in high-impact journals underscores her effectiveness as both a scientist and innovator in her field.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Xiaoqing Tian’s contributions to marine and mechanical engineering have been recognized through several prestigious awards and honors, reflecting her status as a leading expert in her field. She has been named a Zhejiang Province Overseas High-level Talent, a designation awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to scientific and technological innovation while fostering international collaboration. Additionally, she has been recognized as a D-type Talent of Zhejiang Province, highlighting her role in advancing regional research and innovation capacity. Her designation as a Qiantang Scholar of Hangzhou further underscores her academic excellence, leadership, and contributions to the local and national engineering community. These honors not only acknowledge her individual achievements but also her commitment to mentoring young researchers, driving technological progress, and addressing real-world engineering challenges. They also serve as a testament to her ability to integrate high-level research with societal impact, aligning her professional work with broader goals in innovation, sustainability, and economic development. Collectively, these awards solidify Dr. Tian’s reputation as a respected scholar, inventor, and leader within the global marine engineering research community.

Publication Top Notes

1. Calibration-free optical wave guide bending sensor for soft robots, 2025
2. Study on the hydrodynamic characteristics of an outboard engine propeller with hydrophobic coating, 2025
3. Laboratory Investigations on Parametric Configurations of Artificially Down welling Aerations in Stratified Water, 2023
4. Study on the Resistance of a Large Pure Car Truck Carrier with Bulbous Bow and Transom Stern, 2023
5. Numerical verification for a new type of UV disinfection reactor, 2020

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Xiaoqing Tian embodies the qualities of an accomplished researcher, innovative engineer, and dedicated academic. Her career reflects a deliberate and consistent pursuit of excellence across multiple dimensions — from education and professional development to research innovation and community engagement. With an extensive academic background in fluid machinery, mechanical engineering, and hydrodynamics, complemented by valuable international research experience, she has developed a skill set that is both technically advanced and globally informed. Her work on underwater vehicle systems, propeller optimization, and environmental hydrodynamics demonstrates a unique ability to merge scientific insight with practical engineering solutions. The numerous patents and peer-reviewed publications she has produced serve as evidence of her commitment to technological advancement, while her awards and honors confirm her leadership in the field. Beyond her technical achievements, Dr. Tian contributes to the growth of future engineers through teaching, mentorship, and research collaboration. Looking ahead, she remains committed to expanding the frontiers of marine engineering research, promoting sustainable innovation, and making meaningful contributions to both the academic community and society at large. Her professional journey serves as an inspiring model for aspiring scientists and engineers worldwide.

Bruno Agard | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Bruno Agard | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Polytechnique Montréal, Canada

Professor Bruno Agard is a distinguished academic in the field of Industrial Engineering, currently holding a professorship at the École Polytechnique de Montréal within the Department of Mathematics and Industrial Engineering. As a core member of the Laboratoire en Intelligence des Données (LID), he is widely recognized for his applied research on data-driven decision-making across transportation systems, supply chain management, and product design. His academic journey has taken him through top institutions in France, the United States, and Canada, equipping him with a global outlook and a multidisciplinary approach. Professor Agard’s scholarly influence is exemplified through his involvement in collaborative research with CIRRELT and GERAD, as well as through his numerous technical reports and publications. A seasoned educator and mentor, he has supervised a significant number of postdoctoral researchers, doctoral candidates, and master’s students, contributing greatly to the academic community’s growth. His research focuses on integrating intelligent data analysis into real-world systems, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability. With his innovative contributions and longstanding commitment to research excellence, Professor Agard stands out as a highly deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His work bridges theory and practice, shaping the future of industrial systems in academia and industry alike.

Professional Profile

Education

Professor Bruno Agard’s educational foundation is both extensive and prestigious, reflecting a clear trajectory of excellence in industrial engineering and applied sciences. He earned his Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering with honors in 2002 from the Institut National Polytechnique de Grenoble, France, where his dissertation focused on product design methodologies in contexts of wide diversity. Prior to that, he completed a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering (DEA) in 1999 at the same institution. His academic path also includes a highly competitive 5-year teaching degree (Agrégation) in 1998 from the École Normale Supérieure de Cachan, where he was ranked fourth nationally—an exceptional accomplishment. Additionally, he holds a four-year university degree in Technology (Maîtrise) with honors from Université d’Orléans-Tours (1997), a B.S. in Manufacturing (Licence) from the same university (1996), and a two-year technical degree (DUT) in Technology from Institut Universitaire Technologique de Bourges, where he was ranked second (1995). Professor Agard began his academic pursuit with a high school diploma (Baccalauréat) from Lycée Claude de France in 1992. His education reflects a solid and diverse academic preparation that underpins his expertise in industrial engineering, systems design, and data analysis.

Professional Experience

Professor Bruno Agard has built a remarkable academic and research career spanning over two decades across France, the United States, and Canada. Since 2014, he has served as a full Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Industrial Engineering at École Polytechnique de Montréal. Prior to this, he was promoted through the ranks at the same institution, working as an Associate Professor from 2008 to 2014 and Assistant Professor from 2003 to 2008. His academic journey began with an Assistant Professorship at the IUFM de Grenoble in the Department of Technology, Management, Economics, and Society during 2002–2003. In Spring 2001, he further broadened his academic exposure as a visiting researcher at the Intelligent Systems Laboratory, University of Iowa, USA. Between 1999 and 2002, Professor Agard also worked as a Teaching and Research Assistant at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Génie Industriel, part of the Institut National Polytechnique de Grenoble. His diverse academic roles have allowed him to lead cutting-edge research projects, engage with interdisciplinary teams, and contribute to curriculum development. His deep experience across international academic settings has cemented his role as a key figure in advancing industrial engineering, applied data science, and smart systems integration.

Research Interests

Professor Bruno Agard’s research interests lie at the intersection of industrial engineering, data science, and systems optimization. A core area of his expertise is in the application of intelligent data analysis to real-world problems, particularly in transportation systems, supply chain management, and product design. He is passionate about improving decision-making processes by developing data-driven methodologies that support operational efficiency and resilience. One of his notable domains of research is in analyzing smart card data to understand public transit usage patterns—an area where he has co-authored several technical reports in collaboration with CIRRELT. He also explores advanced clustering and segmentation techniques, temporal pattern recognition, and spatial-temporal data modeling. Professor Agard has demonstrated a strong interest in the joint design of product families and supply chains, applying optimization algorithms such as taboo search to solve complex, multi-objective problems. His research extends to occupational health and safety tools, emergency response logistics, and systems interoperability in public transportation during crisis scenarios. With a continuous focus on translating theoretical frameworks into applicable solutions, Professor Agard’s research is both academically rigorous and socially impactful. His work contributes significantly to sustainable urban planning, intelligent manufacturing, and the digital transformation of industrial systems.

Research Skills

Professor Bruno Agard possesses a wide array of advanced research skills that make him a prominent figure in industrial engineering and data intelligence. He is adept in quantitative modeling, optimization techniques, machine learning, and big data analytics—skills that he routinely applies to solve challenges in transportation, supply chains, and manufacturing. His technical proficiency includes developing innovative data mining and clustering algorithms to extract insights from smart card and operational datasets. He has shown a deep understanding of time-series analysis, segmentation methods, and spatial-temporal data integration. Moreover, Professor Agard has expertise in multi-objective optimization, particularly in designing product families and associated supply chains using heuristic and metaheuristic approaches, including taboo search. He is highly experienced in simulation modeling and decision support system design, ensuring his research remains practical and applicable. Additionally, he is a skilled academic mentor and collaborator, having supervised numerous Ph.D., master’s, and postdoctoral researchers. His ability to communicate complex ideas effectively in interdisciplinary and international contexts is further enhanced by his fluency in French, English, and intermediate Spanish. Altogether, Professor Agard’s research skill set positions him as a versatile and impactful contributor to the advancement of intelligent systems in industrial and academic environments.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards are not detailed in the provided information, Professor Bruno Agard’s impressive academic and research trajectory reflects a career marked by excellence, leadership, and scholarly impact. His appointment and promotion through all academic ranks—from Assistant to Full Professor—at École Polytechnique de Montréal is a testament to his sustained contributions and recognition within the academic community. Notably, his national ranking of fourth in the highly competitive Agrégation program at École Normale Supérieure de Cachan is an early indicator of his academic brilliance. Furthermore, his continued affiliation with prominent research institutions such as CIRRELT (Interuniversity Research Centre on Enterprise Networks, Logistics and Transportation) and GERAD (Group for Research in Decision Analysis) highlights the recognition of his research capabilities in elite scholarly circles. His extensive supervision of nearly 120 students across multiple levels, coupled with his leadership in interdisciplinary research projects, further positions him as an academic of high repute. Though no formal honors are listed, Professor Agard’s scholarly outputs, mentorship, and leadership roles within international collaborations demonstrate the impact and esteem he holds in his field. Such accomplishments strongly support his candidacy for distinguished awards recognizing research excellence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Professor Bruno Agard exemplifies the qualities of a top-tier researcher deserving of the Best Researcher Award. With over two decades of academic experience, he has established himself as a leader in the fields of industrial engineering, intelligent data systems, and optimization. His ability to bridge theoretical innovation with practical applications has yielded valuable insights in public transit analytics, supply chain configuration, and emergency logistics planning. His multidisciplinary research collaborations with renowned institutions like CIRRELT and GERAD reflect his deep integration into Canada’s leading research ecosystems. Furthermore, his mentorship of over 120 students underscores his dedication to shaping the next generation of scholars and practitioners. Professor Agard’s methodological rigor, combined with a deep understanding of complex data environments, positions him as a transformative figure in his discipline. While his formal awards may not be extensively documented, the breadth of his contributions—spanning high-impact publications, student development, and applied industrial solutions—speak volumes about his research excellence. Recognizing Professor Agard with the Best Researcher Award would not only celebrate his achievements but also highlight the value of integrating data intelligence with industrial systems for societal advancement.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Machine Learning Tool for Yield Maximization in Cream Cheese Production
    Authors: L. Parrenin, A. Dupuis, C. Danjou, B. Agard

  • Title: An Inventory Management Support Tool Through Indirect Q-Value Estimation: A Combined Optimization and Forecasting Approach
    Authors: A.R. Delfiol, C. Dadouchi, B. Agard, P. St-Aubin

  • Title: Modulated spatiotemporal clustering of smart card users
    Authors: R. Decouvelaere, M.M. Trépanier, B. Agard
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 4

  • Title: A decision support tool to analyze the properties of wheat, cocoa beans and mangoes from their NIR spectra
    Authors: L. Parrenin, C. Danjou, B. Agard, G. Marchesini, F. Barbosa
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Improving demand forecasting for customers with missing downstream data in intermittent demand supply chains with supervised multivariate clustering
    Authors: C. Ducharme, B. Agard, M.M. Trépanier
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Improvement of freight consolidation through a data mining-based methodology
    Authors: Z. Aboutalib, B. Agard
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Digital Technologies and Emotions: Spectrum of Worker Decision Behavior Analysis
    Authors: A. Dupuis, C. Dadouchi, B. Agard

  • Title: A decision support system for sequencing production in the manufacturing industry
    Authors: A. Dupuis, C. Dadouchi, B. Agard
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 1

  • Title: A decision support tool for the first stage of the tempering process of organic wheat grains in a mill
    Authors: L. Parrenin, C. Danjou, B. Agard, R. Beauchemin
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 5