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Adedeji Afolabi, PhD

Department and Expertise

DepartmentExpertise
Engineering TechnologyWorkforce sustainability (current and future workforce) using data analytics, exoskeletons, robotics, and reality and sensing technologies; Construction automation; Construction robotics (including exoskeletons); Human-robot interaction; AI-driven automated systems; Physiological sensing for monitoring workers’ health and safety.
Research Summary 1

REACT-2-FIRE: Real time AI-Connected Digital Twin for the Prediction of Environmental and Physiological Risks in Firefighters in High-Hazard Zones

Project Abstract: Firefighters operate in extreme environments without access to real-time monitoring tools that can detect physiological stress or environmental hazards early. This results in an annual cost of firefighter injuries estimated to be around $6 billion. The lack of real-time data-driven insight leads to preventable injuries, delayed emergency responses, and increased operational costs. The goal of this project is to develop a AI-enabled React-2-Fire tool that introduces a cutting-edge digital twin platform that integrates real-time physiological (e.g., heart rate, blood oxygen, motion) and environmental (e.g., air quality, temperature, location) sensor data.

Not currently looking for student assistance
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Sotirios Diamantas, PhD

Department and Expertise

DepartmentExpertise
Computer ScienceRobotics and Computer Vision. In particular, Active Vision; Robot Navigation; Perception of Autonomous Systems; Visual Odometry; Probabilistic Algorithms; and Deep Learning
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Hongbo Du, PhD

Department and Expertise

DepartmentExpertise
Department of Mechanical, Environmental, and Civil EngineeringBiofuel production from agricultural residue and other biomass, wastewater treatment with membrane technologies, deep learning, agricultural robotics, life cycle assessment, and lifecycle cost analysis.
Research Summary 1

Hybrid Ceramic Membrane Bioreactor and Reverse Osmosis Processes for the Removal of Micro and Nano Plastics from Municipal Wastewater

Project Abstract: Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) are promising for treating wastewater contaminated with microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), but conventional systems using polymeric microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) membranes face performance issues due to fouling and potential plastic release from membrane degradation. This project tests the hypothesis that ceramic MF/UF membranes in MBRs can more effectively remove MPs and NPs without these limitations.

The research will integrate bench-scale experiments and modeling. Filtration studies will evaluate anaerobic CMBRs with flat-sheet MF membranes and aerobic CMBRs with tubular UF membranes, followed by reverse osmosis (RO) to produce clean water suitable for potable and non-potable use. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling will optimize CMBR design and assess fouling mechanisms, while atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations will explore molecular-level interactions between plastics and ceramic membranes.

The project aims to advance efficient, cost-effective wastewater treatment technologies and will incorporate findings into undergraduate and graduate curricula at Prairie View A&M University and Tarleton State University, offering students hands-on learning in environmental engineering and membrane filtration.

Not currently looking for student assistance
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Dr. Haitham Abu Ghazaleh, PhD

Department and Expertise

DepartmentExpertise
Electrical EngineeringWireless Communication Systems; Network Teletraffic Modeling and Performance Analysis; Queueing Systems; Adaptive Network Resource Management; Mobility in Future-Generation Wireless Networks; Cognitive Radio Systems; Wireless Sensor Networks; Smart Cities; The Internet of Things
Research Summary 1

Hybrid Ceramic Membrane Bioreactor and Reverse Osmosis Processes for the Removal of Micro and Nano Plastics from Municipal Wastewater

Project Abstract: The objective of the research is to develop and implement a monitoring system to be installed at strategic locations in the plant for monitoring specific conditions related to the critical stages of the production process. The data from the measurements will be used to examine the “health” of the critical systems for preventative maintenance. The data will further be used to evaluate the correlations between the different measurements to study which parameters/values lead to an end-product with certain characteristics. This can help with yielding end-products with consistent characteristics, and to predetermine what changes in the process could be implemented to adjust certain characteristics.

Student research assistance position available – apply through Handshake
Research Summary 2

Application of Hyperspectral Imaging in Advanced Crop Health Monitoring

Project Abstract: The objective of the research is to develop and implement a monitoring system to be installed at strategic locations in the plant for monitoring specific conditions related to the critical stages of the production process. The data from the measurements will be used to examine the “health” of the critical systems for preventative maintenance. The data will further be used to evaluate the correlations between the different measurements to study which parameters/values lead to an end-product with certain characteristics. This can help with yielding end-products with consistent characteristics, and to predetermine what changes in the process could be implemented to adjust certain characteristics.

Not currently looking for student assistance
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Shihao Huang, PhD

Department and Expertise

DepartmentExpertise
Electrical EngineeringAI-assisted predictive maintenance for Civil Infrastructure and Geo-hazard mitigation
Research Summary 1

Geosynthetic Solutions for Transportation Infrastructure under Extreme Weather Events

Project Abstract: This project aims to develop and evaluate geosynthetic solutions to enhance the resilience of highways and railways under extreme weather events like flooding and freeze-thaw cycles. Through laboratory testing and numerical modeling, the research will assess the effectiveness of geosynthetics in improving soil stability, providing cost-effective and durable strategies for infrastructure adaptation to climate change.

Not currently looking for student assistance
Research Summary 2

A Self-Powered Hybrid Monitoring System for Highway Embankment Stability Integrating Piezoelectric and Fiber Bragg Grating Technologies

Project Abstract: This project aims to develop a hybrid monitoring system combining for real-time, autonomous assessment of highway embankment stability. The system enables energy harvesting, reduces maintenance, and enhances early detection of structural changes under extreme conditions, improving resilience and safety of transportation infrastructure.

Not currently looking for student assistance
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Hoe-Gil Lee, PhD

Department and Expertise

DepartmentExpertise
Mechanical EngineeringEnergy; Clean Energy (Solar, Wind, and Fuel Cell Energy); Hybrid Vehicle Technology; Industrial Mechanical Products (especially automotive components and industrial pumps and turbines); Manufacturing Process Optimization within Production Planning, controlling and scheduling, and use of production tools
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Hyedi Nivens

Department and Expertise

DepartmentExpertise
Department of Mechanical, Environmental, and Civil EngineeringEnvironmental, Biological, and Agricultural Engineering
Research Summary 1

An investigation of biochar for the protection of water and soil quality from PFAS contamination.

Project Abstract: Hyedi Nivens is conducting research on the use of biochar for PFAS removal across the Water-Energy-Food-Soil (WEFS) Nexus. Her work explores sustainable, low-cost solutions for remediating PFAS-contaminated water and soil systems, with a focus on treatment mechanisms, environmental interactions, and practical applications in agricultural and landfill contexts. Using methods like batch adsorption, column testing, and material amendments, her research contributes to improved PFAS management strategies while addressing broader environmental quality and resource resilience within the WEFS framework.

Not currently looking for student assistance
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Kartik Venkataraman, PhD, P.E.

Department and Expertise

DepartmentExpertise
Environmental EngineeringWater Resources Engineering; Groundwater Contamination; Environmental Remediation
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Abolghassem Zabihollah, PhD, P.E.

Department and Expertise

DepartmentExpertise
Mechanical EngineeringAdvanced Structures, Smart Structures and Systems; Vibration Control; Design Optimization