George S. Glinski Excellence in Research Award
Burak Kantarci, School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Professor Burak Kantarci has made groundbreaking contributions in secure, AI-enabled mobile computing and communications. A top-cited scientist in telecommunications, he has built a notable publication record. With over $9.5 million in research funding, leadership in national defense and infrastructure projects, and a strong track record in training more than 120 highly qualified personnel, exemplifies excellence in research, leadership and innovation. His national and international accolades — including prestigious appointments, technical awards and speaking roles — underscore his profound impact on both academia and industry.
John V. Marsh Award for Excellence in Teaching
Hossein Bonakdari, Department of Civil Engineering
Professor Hossein Bonakdari is committed to student learning, mentorship and curriculum innovation. He has consistently earned outstanding teaching evaluations and played a key role in transforming engineering education. After realizing there was a lack of comprehensive French-language references, he developed a custom textbook to better support student success. His courses also integrate real-world applications and AI technologies, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Through his leadership in modernizing laboratory facilities and organizing the Faculty’s very first Civil Undergraduate Research Event, he has significantly enriched the student experience for both undergraduate and graduate students.
Excellence in Research Partnerships Award
Ghasan Doudak, Department of Civil Engineering
Professor Ghasan Doudak’s long-standing partnership with the Canadian Wood Council has significantly advanced his research in timber engineering. This collaboration has led to considerable progress in structural design standards, like new procedures for blast-resistant timber construction and for preventing beam buckling due to bending and twisting. The changes have transformed national building practices. He has successfully bridged academic research with industry needs, secured major funding and led national code committees. Beyond his research, he’s committed to training diverse and highly qualified graduate students, ensuring that his partnerships not only advance engineering knowledge but also cultivate the next generation of leaders in the field.
Award for Excellence in Interdisciplinary Research
Majid Sartaj, Department of Civil Engineering
Professor Majid Sartaj has pioneered research at the intersection of civil engineering, environmental science, materials science and biotechnology. His impactful collaborations range from developing graphene-based solutions for water treatment with chemists to enhancing biogas production with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. All of this work demonstrates his ability to address global sustainability challenges through cross-disciplinary innovation. Sartaj’s work has been published in high-impact journals — and it has led to practical industrial applications. His commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, combined with his strong leadership in interdisciplinary teamwork, underscores his holistic contributions to engineering research.
Early Career Researcher of the Year Award
Martin Noël, Department of Civil Engineering
Professor Martin Noël is a leading figure in advanced composite materials and sustainable infrastructure. His work on the Champlain Bridge evaluation project has provided practical, concrete information and insights. His research, which spans more than 110 peer-reviewed publications, has led to technological innovations — most notably, the development of a wireless impact-echo device for concrete evaluation. He has secured over $2.9 million in funding, established strong international collaborations and shown leadership in major professional organizations. His contributions directly support the Faculty’s strategic goal of sustainable and resilient infrastructure.
Teaching Innovation Award
Hassan Aoude, Department of Civil Engineering
Since joining the University of Ottawa in 2009, Professor Hassan Aoude has consistently received outstanding course evaluations across multiple languages and levels. He has enriched the student learning experience by creating new courses and integrating new tools like video lab demos, virtual field trips and hybrid learning modules. He has also developed French teaching materials for several courses. Beyond the classroom, Aoude’s dedication to teaching is clear through his role in overseeing the civil engineering undergraduate curriculum and the accreditation process.
Part-time Professor Award for Excellence in Teaching
Mohammad Alnabhan, School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Professor Mohammad Alnabhan stands out as an exceptional educator through his dedication to teaching, his approachable and supportive nature, and his genuine investment in his students’ growth. He transforms complex topics into accessible and enjoyable learning experiences, all while fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where students feel motivated. Whether through one-on-one meetings or tailored resources, Alnaban shows a level of care and commitment in his teaching approach that has left a lasting positive impact on students.
Teaching Assistant Award
Issa Fowai, Department of Civil Engineering
With over 1,170 hours of TA experience across various undergraduate and graduate courses, PhD candidate Issa Fowai has demonstrated outstanding service across every aspect of his role: collegiality, instructional excellence, support for student success and contributions to course delivery. He conveys complex concepts with clarity, patience and enthusiasm, exerting a positive influence on our academic community and the Department of Civil Engineering. A natural leader among his peers, he’s always ready to support fellow TAs and mentor aspiring researchers.
Frank Giacobbi Award for Outstanding Faculty Service
Line Roy, senior specialist, labour and faculty relations
No one could be more deserving of this award than Line Roy, who has provided more than 20 years of dedicated service at the Faculty of Engineering. She has played a key role in working with professors at every stage of their career, from onboarding to retirement. She has also worked closely with many chairs and deans over the years, ensuring continuity, clarity and confidence. She was instrumental in the launch of the School of Engineering Design and Teaching Innovation, helping with the transfer and hiring of professors. Whether she’s tackling day-to-day questions or long-term planning, Roy is a pillar of the Faculty of Engineering.
Congratulations to all recipients
The recipients of the Faculty of Engineering awards embody the Faculty’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and creating leaders who will shape a sustainable and resilient future.
Learn more about our strategic initiatives, and explore the research happening at the Faculty.
