Mohammad Hossein Kadkhodaei | Mining Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammad Hossein Kadkhodaei | Mining Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Department of Mining Engineering | Iran

Publication Profile

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INTRODUCTION 🎓

Dr. Mohammad Hossein Kadkhodaei is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of Mining Engineering with a strong focus on rock mechanics and mining exploitation. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Isfahan University of Technology (IUT) in Iran, specializing in the production of fine materials during linear rock cutting processes. His academic journey is marked by high achievements in teaching, research, and consultation, as well as his expertise in data mining techniques and rock behavior modeling.

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 📚

Dr. Kadkhodaei’s academic journey began at Isfahan University of Technology (IUT), where he earned his B.Sc. in Mining Engineering in 2017. His undergraduate thesis on stability analysis of the Isfahan metro tunnel showcased his interest in rock mechanics and structural integrity. He later pursued a Master’s degree in Mining Exploitation (2017-2019), focusing on the prediction of rockburst phenomena using risk assessment techniques. His research during this period laid a strong foundation for his subsequent Ph.D. work.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 👷‍♂️

Currently, Dr. Kadkhodaei serves as a Teaching Assistant and Thesis Advisor in the Department of Mining Engineering at Isfahan University of Technology. He has been recognized by the faculty as a skilled educator and is responsible for teaching courses such as Underground Mining, Coal Technology, and Optimization of Underground Mining. His role as an advisor spans various levels of student theses, from B.A. to Ph.D. programs, contributing significantly to the academic development of the next generation of mining engineers.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS On Mining Engineering 🔬

Dr. Kadkhodaei’s research focuses primarily on rock mechanics, mining exploitation, and rock cutting techniques. His Ph.D. thesis explores the effect of rock properties on the production of fine materials during linear rock cutting with a conical tool. This groundbreaking research has implications for the efficiency of mining operations and has the potential to significantly impact industrial practices in the mining sector. His research also extends to risk assessment in mining, as demonstrated in his M.Sc. thesis on rockburst prediction.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌍

Dr. Kadkhodaei’s influence extends beyond his teaching and research contributions. Through his mentorship, many students have advanced to become leaders in mining engineering and related fields. His research is bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications in mining operations, creating opportunities for improvements in safety, efficiency, and sustainability within the industry.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS 📑

Dr. Kadkhodaei has contributed extensively to the academic community, publishing numerous research papers in leading journals and conferences. His work focuses on topics such as rock cutting processes, mining optimization, rockburst prediction, and mining safety. His research publications have been cited widely, reflecting the impact and relevance of his work in both academic and industrial circles.

HONORS & AWARDS 🏆

Throughout his academic career, Dr. Kadkhodaei has received multiple honors and recognition for his contributions:

  • Outstanding Academic Achievement in his Ph.D. program at Isfahan University of Technology
  • Research Excellence Award for his work on rock mechanics and cutting processes
  • Awarded multiple grants and scholarships for his research in mining engineering
  • Recognized for leadership in student mentorship and advisory roles

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🌱

Looking ahead, Dr. Kadkhodaei aims to continue his groundbreaking research in mining exploitation and rock mechanics, focusing on mining safety and resource efficiency. As an educator and researcher, he strives to influence the next generation of engineers, contributing to sustainable practices and technological advancements in mining. His ongoing work promises to shape the future of the industry, ensuring safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly mining practices.

FINAL NOTE ✨

Dr. Mohammad Hossein Kadkhodaei’s career is a testament to his dedication to advancing the field of mining engineering. With a passion for research and a commitment to educating future engineers, his work continues to drive progress in the mining and rock mechanics sectors. His innovative research in rock cutting processes and mining optimization is poised to make a lasting impact on the global mining industry.

Publication Top Notes

Developing two robust hybrid models for predicting tunnel deformation in squeezing prone grounds
    • Authors: MH Kadkhodaei, V Amirkiyaei, E Ghasemi
    • Journal: Transportation Geotechnics
    • Year: 2024
Analysing the life index of diamond cutting tools for marble building stones based on laboratory and field investigations
    • Authors: M Bahri, E Ghasemi, MH Kadkhodaei, R Romero-Hernández, …
    • Journal: Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment
    • Year: 2021
An intelligent approach to predict the squeezing severity and tunnel deformation in squeezing grounds
    • Authors: E Ghasemi, S Hassani, MH Kadkhodaei, M Bahri, R Romero-Hernandez, …
    • Journal: Transportation Infrastructure Geotechnology
    • Year: 2024
Evaluation of rock cutting performance of conical cutting tool based on commonly measured rock properties
    • Authors: MH Kadkhodaei, E Ghasemi, JK Hamidi, J Rostami
    • Journal: Transportation Geotechnics
    • Year: 2024
Stability assessment of open spans in underground entry-type excavations by focusing on data mining methods
    • Authors: M Jalilian, E Ghasemi, MH Kadkhodaei
    • Journal: Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration
    • Year: 2024
Evaluation of underground hard rock mine pillar stability using gene expression programming and decision tree‐support vector machine models
    • Authors: MH Kadkhodaei, E Ghasemi, J Zhou, M Zahraei
    • Journal: Deep Underground Science and Engineering
    • Year: 2024

Jorge Valverde Carbonell | Mineral Economics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jorge Valverde Carbonell | Mineral Economics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Yun Xing at The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, China

👨‍🎓Professional Profile

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Jorge Patricio Valverde Carbonell’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in economics at the University of Chile, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (2006–2010) and a Master’s in Economic Analysis (2011–2012). His academic excellence led him to the University of Groningen, where he contributed as a research assistant in 2012, setting the stage for a future deeply rooted in empirical and policy-driven research. Valverde’s pursuit of a PhD in Economics at the prestigious University of Maastricht – UNU MERIT (2019–2025) highlights his ongoing dedication to advancing knowledge in economic analysis and policy.

💼 Professional Endeavors and Expertise

Valverde’s professional career spans key roles in international organizations, consulting for top economic institutions, and policy advising. His experience includes senior consultancy roles at institutions like the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the OECD, and the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). His expertise lies in economic development, mining competitiveness, and energy transitions, particularly in Latin America.

At UNCTAD (Sep 2024–Feb 2025), he is spearheading an analytical paper examining the role of critical minerals in enhancing Latin American economies. Additionally, his work at Espacio Público involves strategic industry analysis related to Chile’s energy transition, with a focus on lithium and green hydrogen industries. His previous roles at organizations such as the World Bank and OECD have shaped policy frameworks around global value chains, sectoral productivity, and taxation in mining industries, most notably in the Chile copper industry.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Valverde’s research delves into the economic complexity and global value chains of the mining sector, with a special emphasis on critical minerals such as copper, lithium, and iron. His most recent publications explore the linkages between critical minerals production and regional competitiveness. His collaboration with Menéndez and Pietrobelli (2024) has led to influential publications in high-impact journals like Journal of Resources Policy and Research Policy Journal, where they analyze mining competitiveness and opportunities for downstream diversification in resource-rich countries.

One of his notable contributions is a comprehensive framework for estimating the fiscal impact of emerging industries in the energy transition, particularly green hydrogen and lithium industries in Latin America. His economic modeling and forecasting in projects like the Energy Transition in the Mining Sector provide valuable insights into how Latin American economies can navigate global shifts in demand for clean energy minerals.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Valverde’s work has made a significant impact on policy and economic modeling within Latin America, especially in the context of resource-rich countries transitioning to green energy. His research has been pivotal in shaping national and regional policies around sustainable mining, energy transition strategies, and taxation reforms. His deep analysis of critical minerals value chains and sectoral productivity offers actionable insights for Latin American countries to boost their mining industries’ competitiveness in the global market.

He has also contributed to key international reports, such as the Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean, where he addressed the challenges and opportunities in the energy transition for copper, lithium, and iron industries in the region. His research continues to inform the policymaking process in multiple international contexts, reflecting his influence as a thought leader in economic transition studies.

🧠 Academic Cites and Publications

Valverde’s work has been widely cited and recognized by both academics and policymakers. His publications span multiple topics within the field of economic complexity, global value chains, and sustainable mining. A standout example is his forthcoming chapter in the book Downstream Diversification in Mineral-Rich Countries, where he outlines the best strategies for maximizing the value-added potential of critical minerals industries.

Moreover, his research on the economic effects of energy transition policies and fiscal reforms in mining has provided valuable guidance for policymakers in Chile and across Latin America. His academic contributions continue to fuel discussions on smart specialization and green industry development at global forums.

💻 Technical Skills

Jorge Patricio Valverde is highly skilled in empirical economic analysis and policy modeling, with expertise in the following areas:

  • Economic Complexity Techniques
  • Global Value Chain (GVC) Analysis
  • Fiscal Impact Estimation and Tax Modeling
  • Energy Transition Modeling
  • Data Analysis and Econometrics (using statistical software like Stata and R)
  • Economic Forecasting (especially related to commodity markets and taxation)

These technical skills are coupled with his ability to deliver comprehensive policy reports and actionable insights for governments, international organizations, and the private sector. His advanced quantitative and qualitative research methodologies enable him to conduct rigorous analyses and make sound recommendations on complex economic issues.

🎓 Teaching Experience

Valverde has consistently contributed to academic training and teaching throughout his career. As a tutor at Maastricht University and Erasmus University Rotterdam, he has provided guidance in Econometrics and Statistics to Master’s students. He has also served as a part-time professor at the University of Chile, teaching courses in Macroeconomics and Public Policy Strategy Management. His teaching experience reflects his commitment to fostering the next generation of economists and policymakers by equipping them with the necessary skills to tackle complex global economic challenges.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Valverde’s legacy is already evident in the impact of his work on Latin American economic policy and his research contributions to the global discussions on sustainable development and economic transformation. As he continues his PhD journey at UNU MERIT, his future contributions are expected to further illuminate the pathways for economic resilience and energy transition in mining economies.

His ongoing work on critical minerals and energy transition will continue to shape policies in resource-rich countries, fostering economic diversification and green growth. By bridging the gap between economic theory and practical policy applications, Valverde is poised to leave a lasting mark on the intersection of sustainability, mining economics, and global trade in the coming