Ibrahim Abuzayed
London
Summary
Innovative R&D Specialist with strengths in computational mechanics and material development. Leads the design and execution of experiments to optimise carbon composite materials, enhancing performance through data-driven insights. Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to develop sustainable solutions for advanced engineering applications.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
R&D Specialist - Computational Mechanics
Carbon Forest Products Ltd (CFP)
London
10.2025 - Current
- Developed and validated finite element (FE) models to predict the mechanical behaviour, structural performance, and failure mechanisms of composite materials.
- Performed material characterisation through mechanical, electrical, and thermal testing, analysing results to evaluate material performance and validate simulation models.
- Conducted data analysis and interpreted experimental and simulation results to identify performance trends and optimise material properties.
- Led research and development of sustainable biomass-derived carbon composite materials by integrating computational modelling with experimental material development.
- Designed and executed Design of Experiments (DoE) to optimise material formulations and processing parameters for carbon-based composite materials.
- Formulated and manufactured material samples, including preparation, processing, and heat treatment to achieve target material properties.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams and external university and laboratory partners to coordinate research activities, share technical findings, and deliver project objectives.
- Prepared technical reports, engineering documentation, and presentations to communicate research outcomes and support project decision-making.
- Managed laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and efficient execution of experimental programmes.
- Maintained comprehensive experimental records, managed technical data, and ensured traceability and accuracy of laboratory documentation.
- Contributed to the development of innovative lightweight and sustainable composite materials for advanced engineering applications.
Lecturer/Assessor Mechanical Engineering
Uxbridge College
London
11.2024 - 09.2025
- Delivered mechanical engineering modules at Levels 3 and 4, including engineering design, materials, drawing, and communication, focusing on blending theoretical knowledge with practical application to equip apprentices for industry readiness.
- Evaluated apprentices' progress through timely marking and constructive feedback, enhancing learning outcomes through both written and oral communication.
- Developed and organised training plans, schemes of work, lesson plans, and resource materials to support effective teaching programmes.
Teaching Assistant
The University of Sheffield
Sheffield
09.2021 - 06.2024
- Supervised lab sessions and tutorials across various engineering modules, including Structures Lab, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Aircraft Design, Machine Design, and Virtual Reality (VR).
- Designed teaching materials for modules on the design, manufacturing, and testing of mechanical systems, focusing on practical applications and industry-relevant skills.
- Supervised and guided undergraduate and postgraduate students through research projects.
- Assessed assignments, projects, and presentations, providing constructive and personalized feedback.
- Awarded a Certificate for Teaching Innovation by the Multidisciplinary Engineering Education (MEE) for developing engaging and effective teaching strategies.
Internship Engineer
Caterpillar (CAT)
Sharjah
07.2018 - 08.2018
- Conducted engine overhaul procedures and performance testing to enhance operational reliability.
- Acquired solid understanding of engine components maintenance through hands-on involvement in service operations, contributing to effective maintenance practices.
- Utilised specialised technical tools to analyse performance data and diagnose mechanical faults, ensuring timely repairs and optimal engine performance.
Education
PhD - Fracture Mechanics of Composites
The University of Sheffield
Sheffield, UK11-2024
MSc - Advanced Mechanical Engineering
The University of Sheffield
Sheffield, UK09-2020
BSc - Mechanical Engineering
The American University of Sharjah
Sharjah, UAE06-2019
Skills
- Finite element analysis
- Multi-scale modelling
- ANSYS and Abaqus proficiency
- 3D CAD expertise
- Mechanical design
- Material characterisation
- Experimental design
- Data analysis
- Research and development
- Engineering principles
- Project management
- Programming skills
References
Available upon request.
PUBLICATIONS
Journal Articles
· H. Al-Hadidi, I. H. Abuzayed, C. Zhang, and J. L. Curiel-Sosa, “Micromechanical modelling and machine learning approaches for predicting effective properties of composite materials,” Composite Structures, vol. 375, p. 119767, 2026. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2025.119767
· Wirawan, N., Abuzayed, I.H., Akbar, M. and Curiel-Sosa, J.L. 2024. A Robust Fast Fracture Plane Orientation Angle Search Algorithm for Puck 3D Inter-Fibre Failure Criterion. European Journal of Computational Mechanics. 33, 03 (Jul. 2024), 227–254. https://doi.org/10.13052/ejcm2642-2085.3332
Book Chapter
· Abuzayed, I.H., Wirawan, N., Curiel-Sosa, J.L. 2024. A Numerical Study on the Flexural Behavior and Failure Mechanisms of Fiber Metal Laminates. In: Gürgen, S. (eds) Failure in Aircraft Materials. Sustainable Aviation. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-65850-1_2
Conference proceedings:
· Abuzayed, I. H., Curiel-Sosa, J. L., Wirawan, N., & Zhang, C. (2023, November 9). A 3D damage model for simulating damage modes in fibre metal laminates. 9th ECCOMAS Thematic Conference on the Mechanical Response of Composites (COMPOSITES 2023). https://www.scipedia.com/public/Abuzayed_et_al_2023a
· Abuzayed, I. H., Curiel-Sosa, J. L., & Saadi, A. (2021, September 1). Computational modelling of failure mechanisms in fibre metal laminates. Presentations to VIII Conference on Mechanical Response of Composites. https://www.scipedia.com/public/Abuzayed_et_al_2021a
· Abuzayed, I., Itani, A. R., Ahmed, A., Alkharaz, M., Jaradat, M., & Romdhane, L. (2020, June 16). Design of lightweight aerial manipulator with a cog compensation mechanism | IEEE conference publication | IEEE Xplore. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9118288
Timeline
R&D Specialist - Computational Mechanics
Carbon Forest Products Ltd (CFP)
10.2025 - Current
Lecturer/Assessor Mechanical Engineering
Uxbridge College
11.2024 - 09.2025
Teaching Assistant
The University of Sheffield
09.2021 - 06.2024
Internship Engineer
Caterpillar (CAT)
07.2018 - 08.2018
PhD - Fracture Mechanics of Composites
The University of Sheffield
MSc - Advanced Mechanical Engineering
The University of Sheffield
BSc - Mechanical Engineering
The American University of Sharjah