Strengths for the Award:

1. Strong Academic Background:
   • Morteza Akbari is currently pursuing a PhD in Structural Engineering at Gdańsk University of Technology, with a focus on the optimal design of structural control devices in buildings, including soil-structure interaction. His academic journey also includes an MSc in Structural Engineering and a BSc in Civil Technology Engineering, demonstrating a solid foundation in the field.
2. Specialization in Seismic Control and Soil-Structure Interaction:
   • His research work is deeply rooted in seismic control strategies, which is a critical area in structural engineering, particularly for earthquake-prone regions. His focus on soil-structure interaction further emphasizes his understanding of complex dynamics in structural design.
3. Notable Publications:
   • Akbari has several publications in reputable journals, including Geomechanics and Engineering, Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering, and the Journal of Earthquake and Tsunami. His research covers important topics such as friction-tuned mass dampers, failure probability in tall buildings, and advanced seismic control strategies.
4. Collaborations with Renowned Researchers:
   • His work with respected supervisors like Prof. Robert Jankowski and Dr. Sadegh Etedali adds credibility to his research. Collaborating with leading experts in the field strengthens his profile as a researcher.
5. Recognition and Awards:
   • Grading of his MSc thesis as excellent and his experience as a reviewer for journals like Structures and Results in Engineering demonstrate his academic rigor and recognition within the research community.
6. Relevant Skill Set:
   • Proficiency in engineering software like MATLAB, Simulink, and SeismoSignal, as well as experience with programming languages, makes him technically adept in his research domain.

Areas for Improvement:

1. Broader Impact of Research:
   • While Akbari’s research is specialized and impactful within structural control and seismic mitigation, expanding the scope to include more interdisciplinary applications or real-world case studies could enhance the broader relevance and applicability of his work.
2. International Exposure and Collaborations:
   • Increasing international collaborations and exposure through conferences, joint research projects, or partnerships with global research institutions could further elevate his profile.
3. Publication in High-Impact Journals:
   • While his current publications are impressive, targeting more high-impact journals in civil engineering or structural dynamics could increase the visibility and citation of his work.
4. Diversification of Research Topics:
   • Exploring additional areas within structural engineering or integrating emerging technologies like AI and machine learning into his research could provide new insights and innovations.