Meet Our Executive Team
GIES represents the graduate students of the Department of Infrastructure Engineering. The society organises regular events, providing social cohesion amongst the graduate student group and opportunities to network with the industry.
All of us are approachable and as your representatives, are always keen to hear from you. Your thoughts, feedback and suggestions regarding any aspect of your involvement with IE are always welcome!
You can keep in touch with us on Facebook and LinkedIn
Reach us at gie-s@unimelb.edu.au
We look forward to seeing you all at future GIES events.
President
Hong Zhu
honzhu2@student.unimelb.edu.au
“To lead is not to command, but to listen, to serve, and to grow with those around you. GIES is more than a society — it’s a home between deadlines, a pause between pressure, a space to be seen, heard, and supported.”
Vice President
Nghia Tran
nghia.tran1@unimelb.edu.au
“As a Vice President of GIES, I’m here to help turn ideas into action and help create a more inspiring and engaging community. Let’s support one another, share a few laughs through the challenges, and grow together. Because together, we can thrive and achieve great things.”
Secretary
Sumit Saha
sumit.saha1@student.unimelb.edu.au
“My name is Sumit Saha, and I am currently a doctoral candidate in the Department of Infrastructure Engineering at the University of Melbourne, specializing in Structural Engineering with a focus on Structural Health Monitoring. In addition to my research, I serve as a Research Assistant at the Building 4.0 Cooperative Research Centre. Prior to joining the University of Melbourne, I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Jadavpur University and my Master’s degree from IIT Hyderabad. I also bring three years of professional experience in the construction engineering industry. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing table tennis and exploring new places through travel.”
Treasurer
Megha Sindhu Pradeep
megha.pradeep@unimelb.edu.au
“Looking forward to contribute and support GIES to the best of my abilities.”
Media and Communications Officer
Hashan Thilakarathna
hashan.korala@student.unimelb.edu.au
“Currently pursuing my PhD in Infrastructural Engineering, I’m thrilled to serve as your Media and Communication Officer — here to amplify our voices, spotlight our achievements, and strengthen the vibrant connections in our community. Let’s make this a year of bold ideas, shared stories, and collective growth!”
Student Advocacy Officer
Kobid Panthi
panthik@student.unimel.edu.au
“Hi, I’m Kobid, currently a PhD student in Infrastructure Engineering. I act as a bridge between the students and the administration whenever needed. I look forward to working with all students and supporting them throughout their journey. I’ll also be contributing to GIES by helping to organize and manage various events.”
General Committee Member
Saurab Lama
saurab.lama@student.unimelb.edu.au
“I believe the strength of any academic community lies not only in the pursuit of knowledge, but in the connections we build along the way. As a committee member of the Graduate Infrastructure Engineering Society (GIES), I’m committed to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive space where students feel supported both intellectually and socially. With a keen interest in innovation and collaboration, I see every moment with GIES as an opportunity to learn, share, and grow together. This year, I hope to help shape a culture that values open exchange, celebrates progress, and inspires each of us to contribute meaningfully to the GIES journey.”
General Committee Member
Ran Tu
ratu@student.unimelb.edu.au
“Actively bridge the communications between all graduate researchers I serve and all committee members I support.”