Samira Gholizadeh

About me

With over 20 years of experience in the manufacturing and engineering sectors, I bring a deep understanding of production planning, maintenance management, and advanced design principles. My career began in 2005 as a draftsman and designer at Mashhad Millang Co., where I developed expertise in technical drawings, ensuring accuracy and compliance with industry standards. Over time, I progressed to leadership roles, where I managed production and maintenance teams, optimized operational processes, and implemented preventative, periodic, and predictive maintenance strategies. These efforts contributed to enhanced productivity and the efficient fulfillment of client demands.

My professional journey has been marked by significant contributions to automotive component manufacturing, mechanical design, and non-destructive testing (NDT) methods. A major focus of my work has been Acoustic Emission (AE) technology, an advanced technique I have employed to innovate NDT processes, ensuring the structural integrity and safety of materials and systems. Through these contributions, I have established myself as a key player in the integration of emerging technologies like machine learning (ML) into traditional engineering practices.

Academic Foundation and Expertise

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Production & Manufacturing from Vali-e-Asr University of Tehran. Following this, I pursued a Master’s degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), where I delved into research and development in AE technology. Currently, I am completing a Ph.D. at the University of Cape Town, with a focus on the advanced analysis of mechanical properties and materials characterization under extreme conditions. My academic journey has equipped me with a solid foundation in understanding material behavior, mechanical properties, and their practical applications.

My research spans advanced materials characterization techniques and the mechanical behavior of materials, with a specific focus on failure analysis. I have developed a fascination with the complex interplay between material properties, deformation mechanisms, and failure modes. My work often involves using microscopy, mechanical testing, and other analytical techniques to investigate material behavior under various conditions. For example, one of my notable projects analyzed the mechanical properties and microstructural evolution of steel materials subjected to blast loads, uncovering correlations between deformation mechanisms and material performance.

Integration of AI and Mechanical Engineering

In addition to my engineering expertise, I have actively pursued continuous learning in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), earning certifications from esteemed institutions such as the University of Oxford, Coursera, and IBM. This commitment culminated in a Postgraduate Diploma in AI and ML from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Warangal, which has empowered me to drive innovation at the intersection of AI and mechanical engineering. By integrating AI with traditional engineering methodologies, I aim to revolutionize processes in fields like NDT and materials characterization, pushing the boundaries of technology.

I have been recognized as an IBM Champion, a testament to my contributions to advancing AI applications in engineering. As an IBM Advocate and user group leader in Women in AI, I am committed to fostering inclusivity and gender equality in STEM while leveraging cutting-edge technologies to solve complex industrial challenges. My dedication to innovation has been further demonstrated through published articles showcasing my research on the application of AI in engineering disciplines.

Bridging Materials Engineering and AI

My dual expertise in mechanical and materials engineering, coupled with a strong foundation in AI, positions me uniquely to address complex challenges in these fields. I am deeply invested in exploring the relationship between mechanical and material properties, deformation mechanisms, and failure analysis. This intersection allows me to develop efficient and advanced technologies that ensure the safety and reliability of materials under extreme conditions.

Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have consistently sought to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application. This is evident in my extensive use of ML techniques and industry-standard tools like Python, SolidWorks, and AutoCAD. These skills enable me to approach engineering problems with a holistic perspective, crafting innovative solutions that bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern advancements.

Leadership and Collaboration

Collaboration has been a cornerstone of my career. I have worked with multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of effective communication and shared problem-solving. My ability to thrive in intellectually stimulating environments has allowed me to contribute meaningfully to diverse projects. Whether through academic research or industry initiatives, I enjoy exchanging ideas with colleagues to tackle complex challenges and advance shared goals.

Key Achievements and Future Goals

One of my most rewarding experiences has been leveraging my analytical skills to tackle failure analysis problems. My hands-on laboratory work and industry projects have refined my abilities to identify failure modes and recommend actionable solutions. These efforts have not only enhanced my technical expertise but also fueled my passion for solving intricate engineering problems.

As I near the completion of my Ph.D., I am excited about the prospect of continuing to contribute to advancements in materials and mechanical engineering. My goal is to push the boundaries of these fields by integrating AI technologies, driving innovation, and addressing pressing industrial challenges. I am eager to collaborate with esteemed researchers and industry professionals who share my passion for exploring new frontiers in engineering and AI.

In summary, my unique background, blending mechanical and materials engineering with AI expertise, positions me as a versatile professional equipped to address complex challenges. I remain committed to fostering innovation, promoting inclusivity in STEM, and driving progress at the intersection of technology and engineering. Through my work, I aim to contribute to the development of more efficient and advanced technologies, ensuring the structural integrity and safety of materials and systems in increasingly demanding environments.