DEI Fellows Promoted to Professorship in the Department of Engineering

Both academics are internationally recognised researchers whose work is helping to address some of the most significant challenges facing the global energy transition. Through their research, they are developing innovative approaches to improve the reliability, resilience, efficiency, and sustainability of future energy systems, while supporting the integration of renewable energy technologies into modern electricity networks.

Professor Behzad Kazemtabrizi's research focuses on electrical power systems optimisation, reliability assessment, and the integration of renewable energy resources into modern electricity grids. His work spans advanced power systems modelling, decision-making under uncertainty, power system resilience, optimal power flows, artificial intelligence and machine learning applications, and renewable energy integration, particularly in wind power.

Since joining Durham University in 2012, Professor Kazemtabrizi has built an internationally respected research portfolio addressing key challenges in energy transition and grid modernisation. His research includes the development of computational tools for hybrid AC/DC power networks and high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems, as well as innovative work on wind farm reliability, microgrid control, and data-driven forecasting. More recently, he has pioneered the use of machine learning and physics-informed neural networks to tackle complex power system planning and operational challenges.

Alongside his research achievements, Professor Kazemtabrizi has made significant contributions to education and academic leadership, serving as the Department of Engineering's Director of Education between 2023 and 2026, where he played an important role in enhancing the student learning experience and supporting curriculum development.

Professor Mahmoud Shahbazi has established an international reputation for his research in power electronics, renewable energy systems, microgrids, smart grids, and fault-tolerant control. His work focuses particularly on the reliability and resilience of converter-dominated energy systems, including hybrid AC/DC networks, offshore wind infrastructure, and critical energy systems.

As Deputy Director of Research in the Department of Engineering and Node Leader for the Electrical Power research node, Professor Shahbazi combines research excellence with significant leadership responsibilities. His research addresses fundamental challenges arising from the transition to low-carbon electricity systems, with a particular emphasis on power electronics reliability, system resilience, hybrid network modelling, optimal power flow, and reliability-aware energy system operation. Since 2022, he has contributed to and helped deliver more than £14 million in externally funded research and doctoral training programmes, including major EPSRC- and NERC-funded initiatives.

Professor Shahbazi has also made substantial contributions to research strategy, doctoral supervision, curriculum development, and professional service. He has led major educational initiatives within the department and plays an active role in the wider engineering community through professional institutions, standards development activities, conference leadership, and peer review.

These promotions reflect not only the exceptional quality and impact of Professors Kazemtabrizi's and Shahbazi's research, but also their dedication to education, collaboration, and leadership within Durham University and the wider energy research community. As DEI Fellows, both have made important contributions to the Institute's mission of advancing interdisciplinary research that supports the transition to secure, resilient, and sustainable energy systems.

We warmly congratulate Professors Behzad Kazemtabrizi and Mahmoud Shahbazi on this significant achievement and wishes them every success in the next stage of their distinguished careers.