Jurgita Malaiškienė | Innovation | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Jurgita Malaiškienė| Innovation | Women Researcher Award

Chief researcher, Vilnius Gediminas technical university, Lithuania

Dr. Jurgita Malaiškienė (🎂 1979-05-02) is the Chief Researcher at the Laboratory of Composite Materials, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University 🏛️. With a strong academic background in Civil Engineering 👷‍♀️, she holds a Ph.D. in Technological Sciences (2008) 🎓. Her expertise centers on ceramic and cementitious materials, sustainable construction, and the application of nano-additives 🧪. Jurgita has held various academic and research positions since 2008, actively contributing to innovation in material science and engineering 🔬. She is also involved in project evaluation and education development across Lithuania 📘🇱🇹, reflecting her dedication to academic excellence and applied research 🚀.

Profile:

🎓 Education & 👩‍🔬 Professional Experience:

Dr. Jurgita Malaiškienė earned her B.Sc. 📘 (2001) and M.Sc. 📗 (2003) degrees in Civil Engineering from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VILNIUS TECH), followed by a Ph.D. 📕 in Technological Sciences (Civil Engineering) in 2008. Her professional journey began as a Researcher 🔬 at the Department of Building Materials, VILNIUS TECH (2008–2014). She also served as an Associate Professor 👩‍🏫 from 2009–2011 and again in 2013–2014. After a period of maternity and parental leave 👶 (2014–2016), she resumed work as a Senior Researcher 🧪 at the Research Institute of Building Materials (2016–2017) and later as a Professor 🧯 (2018–2019). In parallel, she contributed as an LVPA Assessor ✅ (2017–2018, 2023–2024). From 2017–2023, she worked as a Senior Researcher 🧬 at the Laboratory of Composite Materials and has been serving as the Chief Researcher 👩‍🔬 since 2023.

🔹Professional Development :

Dr. Malaiškienė has consistently enhanced her professional skills through specialized courses and seminars 🎓💼. From 2005–2008, she participated in human resource improvement seminars for civil engineering 🧑‍🏫. She deepened her expertise in thermal analysis and calorimetry in 2008 🌡️. Over the years, she has embraced new technologies and innovations, attending seminars like “Smart Building” (2013) 🏢💡 and courses on product development, R&D commercialization, and innovative teaching strategies 📊🧠. Her pedagogical knowledge was reinforced through dedicated courses in 2015, shaping her holistic approach to research, teaching, and industry collaboration 👩‍🏫🔬.

🔹 Research Focus :

Dr. Malaiškienė’s research revolves around ceramic and cementitious building materials 🧱🧪, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation 🌍. She explores the utilization of industrial waste ♻️, enhancing the eco-efficiency of construction materials. Her studies also investigate the impact of chemical admixtures and nano additives on structural and performance properties of cement-based composites 🧬🏗️. She applies mathematical modeling to predict material behavior and optimize compositions based on key parameters 📈📐. Her interdisciplinary work bridges material science and environmental engineering, driving advances in next-generation, high-performance construction materials 🏘️🚀.

🔹Publication Top Notes :

1. Effect of Pozzolanic Additive on Properties and Surface Finish Assessment of Concrete
  • Citation:
    Girskas, G., Kriptavičius, D., Kizinievič, O., & Malaiškienė, J. (2025). Effect of Pozzolanic Additive on Properties and Surface Finish Assessment of Concrete. Buildings, 15(10), 1617. 

  • Summary:
    This study investigates the impact of a pozzolanic additive on concrete’s properties and surface finish. The additive reduced flowability, density, and ultrasonic pulse velocity while increasing entrained air content and reducing porosity. These changes suggest potential benefits for durability and surface quality in concrete applications.

2. Influence of Different Binders on the Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Fly Ash Granulation-Based Stabilization Process
  • Citation:
    Shevtsova, M., Malaiškienė, J., Škamat, J., & Antonovič, V. (2025). Influence of Different Binders on the Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Fly Ash Granulation-Based Stabilization Process. Sustainability, 17(10), 4573.

  • Summary:
    The research evaluates how various binders affect the stabilization of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWI FA). Findings indicate that while cement-based solidification/stabilization techniques can immobilize heavy metals, they are less effective in reducing the mobility of chlorides and sulfates. Pre-treatment washing is recommended to enhance ash stability for potential reuse in construction materials.

3. Utilisation of Different Types of Glass Waste as Pozzolanic Additive or Aggregate in Construction Materials
  • Citation:
    Bekerė, K., & Malaiškienė, J. (2025). Utilisation of Different Types of Glass Waste as Pozzolanic Additive or Aggregate in Construction Materials. Processes, 13(5), 1613.

  • Summary:
    This article explores the potential of using glass waste as a fine or coarse aggregate in concrete or mortar mixtures, replacing traditional materials like sand and gravel. The study highlights the environmental benefits, including reduced CO₂ emissions during clinker manufacturing, by incorporating dispersed glass into blended cements.

4. An Analysis of a Cement Hydration Process Using Glass Waste from Household Appliances as a Supplementary Material
  • Citation:
    Bekerė, K., Malaiškienė, J., & Škamat, J. (2025). An Analysis of a Cement Hydration Process Using Glass Waste from Household Appliances as a Supplementary Material. Processes, 13(3), 840.

  • Summary:
    The study examines the feasibility of using glass waste from household appliances as a supplementary material in cement-based products. It analyzes the chemical and mineral compositions, particle morphology, and size distribution of the glass waste, assessing its suitability as a replacement additive in cement hydration processes.

5. Influence of Pozzolanic Additives on the Structure and Properties of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete
  • Citation:
    Malaiškienė, J., & Jakubovskis, R. (2025). Influence of Pozzolanic Additives on the Structure and Properties of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete. Materials, 18(6), 1304.

  • Summary:
    This paper explores the structural changes and performance improvements in ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) when pozzolanic additives are incorporated. The study confirms enhancements in strength, density, and durability due to the pozzolanic reaction and refined microstructure, suggesting viable applications in high-demand structural elements.

🔹Conclusion:

Dr. Jurgita Malaiškienė’s distinguished career, scientific rigor, and meaningful contributions to sustainable material science make her a highly deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award. Her work not only advances engineering knowledge but also delivers tangible benefits to society and the environment—embodying the spirit of this prestigious recognition.

Dr. Xue Zhong | Emerging Trends | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Xue Zhong | Emerging Trends | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Xue Zhong, South China University of Technology, China

Xue Zhong stands out as a pioneering scholar in landscape architecture and urban climate research. His work integrates multidisciplinary approaches, combining human geography, remote sensing, and AI technologies to address pressing issues in urban thermal environments. His innovative use of UAV-derived multimodal images and high-resolution satellite products marks a significant contribution to the field.

Professional Profile:

Google Scholar

Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award

Xue Zhong exemplifies excellence in research with his innovative contributions to landscape architecture and urban climate studies. His groundbreaking work integrates advanced remote sensing technologies and artificial intelligence to address urban thermal environments, showcasing a commitment to both academic rigor and practical impact. His research is not only multidisciplinary but also highly relevant to current environmental challenges.

Academic Background 📚

Xue Zhong’s educational journey is marked by a strong foundation in various fields. As a Ph.D. candidate at South China University of Technology, he has achieved significant recognition for his work on urban micro-scale thermal environments. His studies include advanced coursework at Western University and a dual undergraduate background in Human Geography & Urban-Rural Planning and English Language and Literature. This diverse academic background underpins his innovative approach to research.

Professional Experience 💼

Currently, Xue Zhong is a Ph.D. candidate actively involved in several high-impact research projects. His role in projects funded by prestigious organizations, such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China, highlights his ability to lead and contribute to complex research initiatives. His work as a core member in various research teams underscores his leadership and collaborative skills in advancing knowledge in his field.

Research Interests and Contributions 🔬

Xue Zhong’s research interests are centered on leveraging UAV-derived multimodal images and AI technologies to study urban thermal environments. His work explores the integration of remote sensing and artificial intelligence to enhance the understanding and management of urban climates. This innovative approach positions him at the forefront of research in landscape architecture and urban planning, demonstrating his commitment to advancing both theoretical and practical knowledge.

Awards and Recognitions 🏆

Xue Zhong has garnered notable awards and recognitions for his exceptional research and academic contributions. His work, which bridges multiple disciplines including landscape architecture, urban planning, and remote sensing, has earned him prestigious accolades from academic and research institutions.

Innovations and Impact 🚀

Xue Zhong has made significant strides in integrating advanced technologies with urban climate research, showcasing a blend of innovation and practical application. His work, particularly in utilizing UAV-derived multimodal images for urban thermal environment evaluation, represents a pioneering approach in the field. By leveraging cutting-edge remote sensing technology and AI-driven analysis, Zhong has developed novel methodologies that offer deeper insights into urban heat islands and micro-scale thermal variations.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. “A thermal performance detection method for building envelope based on 3D model generated by UAV thermal imagery”
    Year: 2020
    Journal: Energies
  2. “Empirical models on urban surface emissivity retrieval based on different spectral response functions: A field study”
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Building and Environment
  3. “Investigating the micro-scale thermal effects of natural underlying surfaces on adjacent spaces in a subtropical zone with an optimized method”
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Building and Environment
  4. “Monitoring and diagnostics of buildings’ heat loss based on 3D IR model of multiple buildings”
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Energy and Buildings
  5. “Investigating the effects of surface moisture content on thermal infrared emissivity of urban underlying surfaces”
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Construction and Building Materials
  6. “A retrieval method for land surface temperatures based on UAV broadband thermal infrared images via the three-dimensional look-up table”
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Building and Environment
  7. “An improved model for emissivity retrieval of complex urban surfaces based on spectral indices from UAV”
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Sustainable Cities and Society