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 Fellow of the Institution of Structural Engineers. He is a member of the editorial board in a number of international journals.