Three students have been recognised for their research on geosynthetics, rail infrastructure and rail systems by two of the sector’s key peak bodies.
Students honoured for their research excellence
UTS graduate Michael Bourke and Dr Kasun Wijayaratna at the Engineers Australia Awards event 2022
Joseph Arivalagan and Chathuri Arachchige received recognition in the 2022 Australian Geomechanics Society (AGS) NSW Research Competition and Michael Bourke was commended by Engineers Australia (EA) in the 2022 Engineering Student of the Year Award, Sydney division.
The AGS NSW Research Award showcases the research of students from NSW universities with the geotechnical community. Submissions were assessed by a review panel consisting of three academics and two committee members. To be selected, Chathuri and Joseph provided a written report of their research followed by a special presentation at a AGS technical meeting. The successful recipients were announced at the AGS Award Night on 13 July.
The exciting news continued on with the announcement of the Engineering Student of the Year Award in August. The peak Australian accrediting body, Engineers Australia, invited engineers and engineering students to submit research projects that “inspire and encourage engineering distinction through teamwork, innovation and technical excellence”. CEE graduate Michael Bourke received a Highly Commended Award for his thesis which was awarded second place out of over 100 entries.
The students’ research papers were:
- Mr Joseph Arivalagan (AGS NSW Research Winner) – “Effectiveness of geosynthetics in preventing subgrade instability and fluidization under cyclic loading”
- Ms Chathuri Arachchige (AGS NSW Research Finalist) – “Use of Rubber Intermixed Ballast Stratum (RIBS) for Enhanced Longevity of Rail Infrastructure”
- Mr Michael Bourke (EA Student of the Year Highly Commended Award) – “The White Triangle: A path towards efficient and integrated light rail systems”
The school congratulates Joseph, Chathuri and Michael on their awards and for their significant efforts to produce high-quality research that will contribute to the future of the civil engineering industry.