CDU engineers shine in global researcher ranking

First published by Charles Darwin University

Charles Darwin University (CDU) engineers using research to build a more innovative and sustainable society are among the most prestigious academics in the world, according to a distinguished list from Stanford University.

The Stanford University and Elsevier World’s Top 2% Scientists list ranks the most cited academics in the world, based on Elsevier’s Scopus database. 

Nineteen academics from CDU were ranked among the world’s most influential, alongside 11 academics from the Menzies School of Health Research These researchers represent fields including health, information technology, ecology, environment, and linguistics. 

Represented on this list are CDU engineers Senior Lecturer Dr Milad Bazli, Research Professor Kannoorpatti Krishnan, and Lecturer Dr Naveen Elumalai.

“It’s an incredible honour to be part of a cohort that reflects such high-calibre research and dedication,” Dr Bazli said. 

“My peers have consistently contributed to advancing knowledge in their respective fields, and this recognition speaks volumes about the world-class research we are conducting at CDU.”

Professor Krishnan said: “This achievement is not mine alone. It reflects the work of my students, colleagues, and industry collaborators which contributed to the research journey.”

Dr Bazli’s research focuses on the structural performance of advanced and environmentally friendly materials. 

“My primary goal is to develop innovative engineering solutions that address real-world challenges, particularly in the fields of advanced manufacturing and sustainable construction. 

“By advancing the understanding of advanced composite manufacturing and sustainable construction materials, I hope to contribute to more efficient, durable, and environmentally friendly engineering practices.”

Professor Krishnan’s research focuses on advanced manufacturing. He is the Director of the advanced Manufacturing Alliance at CDU and has ambitions to create a research and training centre for materials and manufacturing. 

“The goal would be to create transformative manufacturing technologies that integrate additive manufacturing, advanced materials, and automation, ultimately benefiting industries in the NT and beyond,” Professor Krishnan said. 

“This will hopefully, be a choice place for researchers and students to advance and also develop a thriving economy in the NT.”

Dr Elumalai is an expert in clean energy technologies and sustainable material systems, with a focus on nanomaterials engineering. 

"My vision is to develop innovative sustainable technologies that ensure the well-being of not only humans but overall life on the planet, through advancements where both economy and ecology mutually thrive,” Dr Elumalai said. 

“Ultimately, I hope my work will contribute to more sustainable and affordable renewable energy solutions while promoting circular economy where waste is minimized by turning used materials into new products.” 

The academics agree engineering was more important now than ever.

“With the rise of automation, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing techniques, engineers will be at the forefront of reshaping industries,” Professor Kannoorpatti said. 

“It’s through engineering that we will meet the demands of a growing population while maintaining balance with the environment and evolving technologies.”

Dr Bazli said: “Engineering is the backbone of modern society. Today, more than ever, we rely on engineering to solve critical global challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and infrastructure resilience.”

Dr Elumalai also emphasised the overall importance of research. 

“Research is the cornerstone of progress in our society. It allows us to tackle complex problems with innovative solutions that can dramatically improve quality of life, from better healthcare to cleaner energy,” Dr Elumalai said. 

Engineers also featured on the list are Professor Bogdan Dlugogorski and Associate Professor Erwin Chan. 

CDU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation Professor Steve Rogers said the rankings reinforced the University’s growing global reputation. 

“Charles Darwin University academics are well-positioned to bring unique knowledge and perspectives to research, and it allows them to develop innovative solutions to the world’s most complex questions and problems,” Professor Rogers said. 

“Their presence on this list represents our commitment to creating meaningful, lasting Northern Territory,  national and international impact through high-quality research.”