🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Haitham Abdulmohsin Afan’s journey into the world of engineering began with a Bachelor of Science in Dams and Water Resources Engineering from the University of Anbar, Iraq, in 2010. This foundational education set the stage for his deep interest in water resources engineering, a field that would become the cornerstone of his academic and professional career. His early academic years were marked by a strong dedication to understanding the complexities of water resource management, an essential discipline in a region where water scarcity and management are critical issues.

Driven by a desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of civil engineering, Afan pursued a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Water Resources Engineering at the University Kebangsaan Malaysia. During this period (2012-2014), he honed his skills in the application of advanced engineering principles to water resource challenges, laying the groundwork for his future research. His master’s thesis, which focused on artificial intelligence-based models for streamflow forecasting, was a precursor to his later work in the field.

In 2017, Afan completed his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Civil Engineering, with a concentration in Water Resources Engineering, from the University Kebangsaan Malaysia. His doctoral research was distinguished by its innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to address complex water resource issues. His work in developing predictive models for sediment transport and river flow forecasting using AI has been widely recognized and cited in academic circles, contributing significantly to the field of water resources engineering.

🛠️ Professional Endeavors

Afan’s professional journey is as impressive as his academic achievements. His career has been marked by roles in various academic and research institutions across the globe, each position contributing to his growing reputation as a leading expert in civil and water resources engineering.

After completing his Ph.D., Afan took on a role as a Research Assistant at the University Kebangsaan Malaysia, where he worked on a project focused on the use of computational modeling for transdisciplinary engineering applications. This early experience in multidisciplinary research set the stage for his future endeavors, where he would often integrate AI with traditional engineering disciplines.

In 2018, Afan joined the Sustainable Developments in Civil Engineering Research Group at Ton Duc Thang University (TDTU) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, as a Researcher. Here, he continued to push the boundaries of water resources engineering by exploring the applications of AI in sustainable development. His research during this period was critical in developing new methodologies for streamflow forecasting and heavy metal prediction in water bodies, contributing to environmental protection efforts in the region.

His postdoctoral work at the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, further solidified his expertise. As a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow in the Faculty of Engineering, Afan worked on advanced projects that integrated AI into water resource management, enhancing the predictive capabilities of engineering models.

In 2020, Afan’s career took him to Duy Tan University (DTU) in Da Nang, Vietnam, where he served as a Researcher at the Institute of Research and Development. His work here continued to focus on AI applications in civil engineering, particularly in the areas of hydrology and water resource management.

He also served as a Lecturer and Coordinator of the Civil Engineering Faculty at Al Maarif University College (AUC) in Ramadi, Anbar, Iraq, from 2020 to 2023. During his tenure, Afan was responsible for teaching a variety of courses, including Water Resources Engineering, Hydrology, and Engineering Analysis. His efforts in curriculum development and student mentorship were instrumental in shaping the next generation of engineers in Iraq.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Haitham Abdulmohsin Afan’s research is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature and its focus on the application of artificial intelligence in civil engineering. Over the years, he has published 61 research papers, accumulating over 3,055 citations, with an impressive h-index of 30 and an i10-index of 52. These metrics underscore the impact of his work on the academic community.

Afan’s research has primarily focused on developing AI-based models for various aspects of water resources engineering. His work includes the use of artificial neural networks (ANN) and radial basis function neural networks (RBFNN) for predicting river flow, sediment transport, and heavy metal contamination in water bodies. These models have proven to be highly effective in improving the accuracy of predictions in hydrological studies, which are crucial for sustainable water resource management.

In addition to his research, Afan has made significant contributions as an editor and reviewer for several high-impact journals. He currently serves as an editor for the Iraqi Journal of Civil Engineering and has been a leading editor for the Complexity Journal. His expertise is also sought after by numerous other journals, including the Journal of Hydrology, Water Resources Management Journal, and Environmental Earth Science Journal, where he has been recognized as a reviewer.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Afan has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the field of civil engineering. His research has been recognized by academic institutions and professional organizations alike. As a member of the Iraqi Engineers Union since 2010, Afan has been actively involved in the engineering community, both in Iraq and internationally.

His role as a recognized reviewer for prestigious journals is a testament to his expertise and the high regard in which he is held by his peers. The certificates and awards he has received from these journals are a reflection of his dedication to advancing the field of civil engineering through rigorous research and scholarly contributions.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Afan’s work has had a significant impact on the field of civil engineering, particularly in the area of water resources management. His research has not only contributed to academic knowledge but has also had practical applications in environmental protection and sustainable development. The AI models he has developed are being used to improve the management of water resources in regions facing challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and climate change.

As a teacher and mentor, Afan has influenced the careers of many young engineers, instilling in them the importance of integrating technology with traditional engineering practices. His efforts in curriculum development and his commitment to student success have left a lasting legacy in the institutions where he has taught.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Haitham Abdulmohsin Afan is poised to continue his pioneering work in civil engineering. His ongoing research at the Upper Euphrates Basin Developing Centre at the University of Anbar, coupled with his editorial roles, positions him as a leading figure in the integration of AI with engineering. His future contributions are expected to further advance the field, particularly in areas related to sustainable water management and environmental protection.

Afan’s legacy will undoubtedly be marked by his innovative approach to engineering challenges and his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. His work will continue to influence future generations of engineers, ensuring that his contributions to civil engineering will be felt for years to come.