Director, RISE-BUET

Dr. Mohammad Shariful Islam is a Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at BUET. He earned his PhD in Earthquake Engineering from Saitama University, Japan in 2002 and pursued JSPS Postdoctoral research there from 2005–2007. His research spans bioengineering, climate-resilient infrastructure, disaster-resilient rural housing, land reclamation, earthquake-resistant foundation design, and phytoremediation.

Dr. Islam has developed nature-based, climate-resilient slope protection methods implemented across Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Indonesia by ADB, EU, and UNDP. He helped establish the 'Vetiver Demonstration Center' in Chattogram City in 2018, inaugurated by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, and his initiatives have created job opportunities in marginalized communities through local vetiver nurseries.

He has worked on ADB-funded projects to develop standard specifications for bioengineering practices, co-authored design manuals on disaster-resilient affordable housing, and published a book in both English and French. His research contributes directly to the SDGs and the Paris Agreement by advancing decarbonization and climate resilience.

With over 184 published research articles, 20+ keynote/invited international presentations, and supervision of 79 postgraduate research projects, Dr. Islam is a leading voice in sustainable infrastructure and agricultural systems worldwide. He also serves on expert panels and consults for major local and international projects.