Dr. Abdulaziz Alasiri | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University | Saudi Arabia

Professional Profile

🎓 Academic Background

Dr. Abdulaziz Alasiri holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Lehigh University, Pennsylvania, USA (May 2021). His dissertation, titled “Computational Study of Seawater Desalination Using Hollow Fiber Vacuum Membrane Distillation”, focused on optimizing desalination technologies through computational modeling. He earned his M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Akron, Ohio, USA (May 2017), and his B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from King Khalid University, Abha, KSA (May 2011).

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Alasiri’s research centers on numerical modeling and analysis of membrane distillation technologies for seawater desalination, with a strong emphasis on integrating clean energy solutions. His work spans several critical areas, including:

Renewable energy applications to improve engineering efficiency.

Energy storage innovations to support sustainable systems.

Advanced desalination technologies for freshwater generation.

Nanofluid applications to enhance thermal and fluid processes.

🧪 Research Contributions

At Lehigh University (2017–2021), Dr. Alasiri led a research group investigating vacuum membrane distillation modules for seawater desalination. He developed computational models validated through experimental studies to enhance system performance. Utilizing tools such as OpenFOAM, ANSYS, and COMSOL, he performed complex CFD analyses and worked on coupling computational governing equations to optimize membrane distillation.

💰 Research Grants and Proposals

Dr. Alasiri has successfully secured funding to advance his research:

In 2023, he received a 120,000 SAR grant from Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud University (IMISU) to improve membrane technology for desalination.

From 2021 to 2023, he served as Co-Principal Investigator on projects totaling 350,000 SAR.

He has also submitted three project proposals in 2023, which are currently under review.

📚 Teaching Excellence

Dr. Alasiri is a dedicated educator, contributing to both undergraduate and graduate programs at IMISU and Lehigh University. At IMISU, he has taught courses such as Fluid Mechanics (ME 222), Numerical Methods (GE 301), and Thermodynamics I (ME 221), while at Lehigh University, he taught Strength of Materials (MECH-012). His experience as a Teaching Assistant further reflects his commitment to academic mentorship.

🛠️ Leadership and Administrative Roles

As the Chairman of the Mechanical Engineering Department at IMISU (2023–Present), Dr. Alasiri plays a pivotal role in fostering academic and research excellence. He leads several committees, including:

Scientific Research Committee

Development and Quality Committee

Industrial Advisory Council

Engineering Training Committee (2021–2023)

🌐 Industry and Conference Participation

Dr. Alasiri actively engages with the engineering community through participation in prestigious conferences, such as the ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition (IMECE) in 2018 and the ASME 2020 Heat Transfer Summer Conference. These engagements allow him to stay at the forefront of global innovations in mechanical engineering.

Publications Top Noted📚

ZnO/nZVI nanoparticle-enhanced double-slope U-shaped solar distillation: A thermodynamic investigation of cephalexin adsorption

Authors: Sangeetha, A., Shanmugan, S., Alasiri, A.

Journal: Materials Today Sustainability

Year: 2024

The Role of Heater Size and Location in Modulating Natural Convection Behavior in Cu-Water Nanofluid-Loaded Square Enclosures

Authors: Alasiri, A.

Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland)

Year: 2024

Experimental investigation of the effect of angled fins on the energy and exergy efficiencies of solar stills: A comparison between double slope and pyramid solar stills under Tunisia weather conditions

Authors: Dhaoui, S., Choubani, K., Hamdi, F., Alasiri, A., El Hadi Attia, M.

Journal: Process Safety and Environmental Protection

Year: 2024

Investigating the influence of solar distillation on improving the groundwater quality index in the southern region of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Authors: Alasiri, A., Manoj Kumar, P.

Journal: Groundwater for Sustainable Development

Year: 2024

Improvement of the performance of hemispherical distillers through passive and active techniques

Authors: Alasiri, A., Sharshir, S.W., Lotfy, L.A., Ahmadein, M., Elsheikh, A.H.

Journal: Solar Energy

Year: 2024

Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Benjamin Oluwamuyiwa Olorunfemi's academic journey began with a solid foundation in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, starting with his National Diploma (ND) at The Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Nigeria. He continued to pursue his passion for engineering with a Higher National Diploma (HND) at The Federal Polytechnic Bida, Nigeria. These formative years equipped him with fundamental knowledge and skills, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

Mr. Benjamin Oluwamuyiwa Olorunfemi's professional journey is marked by diverse experiences that reflect his commitment to continuous learning and growth. From serving as a Computer Lab Assistant at Bright Computer and Cyber Cafe in Lokoja, Nigeria, to undertaking industrial training at the Power holding company of Nigeria, Kabba Undertaking office, he gained practical insights into the field of electrical engineering. His role as a Computer Science Instructor during his tenure with the National Youth Service Corps in Kano, Nigeria, demonstrated his dedication to education and knowledge dissemination.

Contributions and Research Focus

Throughout his academic and professional career, Mr. Benjamin Oluwamuyiwa Olorunfemi has made significant contributions to the field of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. His research focus spans various domains, including demand response systems, smart systems for solar panel monitoring, and advancements in machine vision for fruit sorting and grading. His publications reflect his dedication to advancing knowledge and addressing real-world challenges, with a keen emphasis on sustainability and innovation.

Accolades and Recognition

Mr. Benjamin Oluwamuyiwa Olorunfemi's outstanding academic achievements have been recognized by prestigious institutions. He was honored with the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment’s outstanding academic excellence award for his Master's studies in 2022. Furthermore, his nominations for the Top Tutor Award at the University of Johannesburg and the Nigeria Community Engagement Award for Academic Excellence underscore his impact and influence within the academic community.

Benjamin Olorunfemi has been honored with the Autonomous Systems Award, a testament to his groundbreaking work in the field. His innovative research and contributions have significantly advanced the understanding and application of autonomous systems, paving the way for future developments in this critical area of technology.

Impact and Influence

Mr. Benjamin Oluwamuyiwa Olorunfemi's research and contributions have had a tangible impact on both academia and industry. His work in areas such as demand response systems and solar panel monitoring has the potential to drive innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. Furthermore, his efforts to improve the learning experience for engineering students highlight his dedication to nurturing future generations of professionals.

Olorunfemi's dedication and expertise have led to impactful advancements in autonomous systems, spanning various domains such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and unmanned vehicles. His multidisciplinary approach and pioneering solutions have garnered widespread recognition within the scientific community and beyond, demonstrating his exceptional talent and commitment to excellence.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Mr. Benjamin Oluwamuyiwa Olorunfemi continues his academic and professional journey, his legacy lies in his commitment to excellence, innovation, and societal impact. His research endeavors and contributions to the field of Electrical and Electronic Engineering are poised to shape the future of technology and engineering practice. With a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and education, Benjamin Oluwamuyiwa Olorunfemi is set to leave a lasting imprint on the academic and professional landscape.

This prestigious award underscores Olorunfemi's significant impact on the field of autonomous systems, highlighting his role as a leading figure in shaping the future of technology.