Dr Saidani was intrigued by bridges and buildings from a young age, and now he is conducting research into novel building material GEM-TECH which could replace some forms of concrete.

He successfully completed his first degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Science and Technology in Algeria, where he won the Best Student Award. He then awarded a PhD in Civil Engineering from The University of Nottingham. Dr Saidani then stayed on as a post-doctoral research fellow for four years working on a number of pan-European and UK projects (total value in excess of £4m). In 1995, he jointed Coventry University as a lecturer, where he is currently a Reader in Structural Engineering since 2008.

Research topics investigated included: steel connection detailing and design; steel framed buildings; structural hollow sections; and e-portfolio for education and training. Current research activities include carrying out an investigation into a novel cement-based material called GEM-Tech. This includes material as well structural testing and modelling.

Dr Saidani has published over 80 journal and conference papers, and technical documents.

Dr Saidani is a Chartered Engineer and a Member of the Institution of Structural Engineers. He is a member of the editorial board in a number of international journals.

Area of Expertise:

Steel and concrete structures; structural connections; novel materials for sustainable construction.

Around half of all non-renewable resources mankind consumes are used in construction, making it one of the least sustainable industries in the world. The application of technology (in general) often results in unavoidable environmental impacts. Engineering designers are increasingly faced with the challenge of designing sustainable and environmentally friendly structures.

My research includes investigating novel materials that are friendly to the environment and lead to more sustainable designs.

The key to designing sustainable structures is to use materials that produce less carbon emissions as well as designs that respond to the demands of flexibility and adaptability.

My vision is to contribute to solving some of the challenges faced by the construction industry in designing more sustainable material and designs.