Kafi Mohamed Hamed | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Kafi Mohamed Hamed | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

University lecturer from Bule Hora University, Ethiopia

Kafi Mohamed Hamed is a dedicated academic and researcher based in Bule Hora, Ethiopia, currently serving as an instructor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Bule Hora University. With over five years of professional experience in higher education, he has been actively engaged in teaching, supervising undergraduate student projects, conducting research, and providing community service. His commitment to academic excellence is reflected in his efforts to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, particularly in areas such as process engineering, nanotechnology, and environmental protection. Kafi has a strong foundation in chemical engineering, having earned both his BSc and MSc in the discipline with commendable academic records. His technical proficiency spans a wide range of simulation and analytical software, which he employs in research and teaching activities. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Kafi is involved in awareness programs and community engagement initiatives aimed at addressing local engineering challenges. His active participation in professional associations, such as the Ethiopian Society of Chemical Engineering, further illustrates his commitment to professional development and contribution to the field. Despite the need for further research publications and international exposure, Kafi is steadily building a profile as a promising researcher with potential to make significant contributions in his field.

Professional Profile

Education

Kafi Mohamed Hamed has pursued a robust academic path in the field of chemical engineering. He began his higher education journey at Adigrat University in Ethiopia, where he earned his Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemical Engineering. Graduating with a CGPA of 3.60/4, he developed a strong foundation in core chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, process control, transport phenomena, and unit operations. Following his undergraduate studies, Kafi enrolled in the MSc program in Process Engineering at Jimma University’s Institute of Technology. He completed his postgraduate studies with a CGPA of 3.64/4, focusing on advanced process design, optimization, and chemical process simulations. His graduate education allowed him to gain deeper insights into industrial processes, environmental considerations, and research methodologies in chemical engineering. To enhance his teaching and pedagogical skills, he also completed formal pedagogical training and a Higher Diploma Programme (HDP) at Bule Hora University. These additional qualifications prepared him for an academic career by improving his instructional techniques and understanding of curriculum development. His educational background not only reflects academic rigor but also his continuous pursuit of excellence in teaching and applied research within chemical engineering.

Professional Experience

Kafi Mohamed Hamed has over five years of professional experience in academia, having joined Bule Hora University on September 27, 2018. Since his appointment, he has held the position of Instructor in the Department of Chemical Engineering under the College of Engineering and Technology. His responsibilities include delivering core and elective courses across the undergraduate chemical engineering curriculum, supervising final-year student research projects, and actively participating in both institutional research and community service programs. His involvement extends beyond the classroom, as he has also taken on administrative and leadership roles, such as serving as department head by delegation and participating in departmental committees. These roles have helped him develop strong managerial and organizational skills. Kafi is deeply engaged in bridging education and community development, evident from his participation in community service teams that work on raising awareness and providing technical solutions to local industrial and environmental problems. His work experience also includes mentoring students, curriculum design, and contributing to the operational effectiveness of the department. He is a member of the Ethiopian Society of Chemical Engineering and has participated in an industrial internship at Gulelle Soap and Detergent Factory, providing him exposure to real-world applications of chemical engineering processes.

Research Interest

Kafi Mohamed Hamed has cultivated a wide-ranging set of research interests that span both traditional and emerging areas in chemical engineering. His primary areas of interest include composite materials, nanotechnology, polymer science, and process optimization. He is particularly drawn to solving engineering problems that intersect with environmental and energy concerns, such as wastewater treatment and sustainable energy engineering. These research interests reflect a clear alignment with global scientific priorities aimed at environmental protection and sustainability. Kafi’s multidisciplinary approach allows him to explore innovative materials and processes that can improve the efficiency and environmental impact of industrial operations. His interest in process optimization is evident in his use of simulation tools and modeling software to enhance chemical processes and resource utilization. Additionally, his focus on nanotechnology and polymer science opens opportunities for developing advanced functional materials with applications in various sectors, including energy storage, environmental remediation, and biomedical engineering. Through his teaching and final-year project supervision, he continuously integrates these research themes into student-led investigations. Kafi’s interest in community-relevant research also aligns his academic work with local developmental goals, further underscoring his commitment to both scientific advancement and societal benefit.

Research Skills

Kafi Mohamed Hamed possesses a diverse and practical set of research skills that support his academic and investigative work in chemical engineering. His technical expertise spans a range of analytical, simulation, and process design tools essential for research and teaching. He is proficient in MATLAB and Simulink for system modeling and analysis, as well as Aspen HYSYS and Aspen Plus for chemical process simulation and design. His familiarity with ANSYS and CFD software indicates capability in computational fluid dynamics and mechanical modeling. In the area of data analysis and experimental design, Kafi utilizes tools such as Design Expert, Origin Pro, and Chemdraw. His proficiency in process integration software like HINT reflects an understanding of energy efficiency and pinch analysis techniques. He also employs visualization and documentation tools like Edraw Max and Photoshop to enhance research communication. Kafi demonstrates an ability to bridge theoretical concepts with practical experimentation and simulation, a skill particularly important in process and environmental engineering. Furthermore, his background includes hands-on experience in industrial settings during his internship, and his supervision of undergraduate projects shows his skill in guiding research methodology. These competencies equip him to tackle multidisciplinary challenges and pursue advanced research in material and process innovation.

Awards and Honors

Although Kafi Mohamed Hamed’s CV does not list specific individual awards or honors, his academic and professional journey includes several noteworthy achievements and recognitions. He graduated with distinction at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, securing CGPAs of 3.60 and 3.64 respectively. His admission into a competitive MSc program in Process Engineering at Jimma University and his successful completion of the program reflect academic merit and dedication. Kafi has also been entrusted with significant institutional responsibilities, such as serving as department head by delegation and contributing to curriculum development and quality assurance activities. These appointments suggest recognition by his peers and institutional leadership for his competence, reliability, and leadership potential. Additionally, his participation in Ethiopia’s national professional body, the Ethiopian Society of Chemical Engineering (ESCHE), illustrates his commitment to professional growth and recognition within the engineering community. His selection for internship training at Gulelle Soap and Detergent Factory demonstrates early professional promise and exposure to applied chemical engineering practices. While he may not yet have received high-profile research awards, Kafi’s consistent academic performance, institutional trust, and active involvement in community and professional activities serve as significant indicators of his potential for future honors and research accolades.

Conclusion

Kafi Mohamed Hamed is a promising early-career academic with a strong foundation in chemical engineering and a commitment to research, teaching, and community service. His educational qualifications, combined with over five years of experience at Bule Hora University, have positioned him as a capable instructor and an emerging researcher. His areas of research interest—ranging from composite materials and nanotechnology to wastewater treatment and energy engineering—demonstrate an alignment with contemporary global challenges and sustainable development goals. He possesses a broad range of research skills, particularly in simulation, modeling, and process design, which are valuable for conducting meaningful and applied research. However, to enhance his competitiveness for prestigious awards like the Best Researcher Award, he would benefit from increasing his scholarly output through peer-reviewed publications, conference participation, and research collaborations. Moreover, gaining international exposure and securing research funding will further elevate his academic profile. Despite these areas for improvement, Kafi has already laid a solid foundation for a successful research career. His dedication to both academic excellence and community service underscores his potential to become a key contributor to the advancement of chemical engineering in Ethiopia and beyond.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Optimizing of Nanocellulose Extraction From Highland Bamboo Arundinaria alpina for Sustainable Bio‐Nanomaterials via Response Surface Methodology
    Journal: Advances in Polymer Technology
    Type: Journal article
    Publication Date: January 2025

Heba Abdallah | Chemical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Heba Abdallah | Chemical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Professor at National Research Centre, Egypt

Heba Abdallah Mohamed Abdallah is a distinguished professor of Chemical Engineering at the National Research Centre in Cairo, Egypt. She is a leading consultant engineer specializing in the manufacturing of special membranes for water treatment processes. With over two decades of experience, she has made significant contributions to chemical engineering, particularly in membrane technology, water desalination, and wastewater treatment. Her expertise spans the production of flat sheet, spiral wound, and hollow fiber membranes, as well as catalytic membrane reactors. Heba has played a pivotal role in advancing membrane-based solutions for environmental sustainability and industrial applications. She has participated in numerous international conferences and workshops, showcasing her dedication to continuous learning and knowledge dissemination. As a prolific researcher, she has authored and co-authored several high-impact scientific publications focusing on water purification, photocatalysis, and membrane performance enhancement. Her involvement in prestigious research projects and collaborations with international institutions reflects her global influence in the field. Heba Abdallah’s contributions extend beyond research, as she actively mentors young researchers and engineers, inspiring future generations to drive technological innovations for sustainable water management.

Professional Profile

Education

Heba Abdallah holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Cairo University, awarded in November 2010. Her doctoral research focused on the kinetics study of esterification reactions using catalytic membranes, showcasing her expertise in membrane-based chemical processes. She also earned a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Chemical Engineering from Cairo University in December 2004. Her master’s thesis evaluated cement lining mortar for cast iron pipes, demonstrating her proficiency in material science and industrial applications. Heba’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Chemical Engineering from Cairo University, completed in May 2000. Her graduation project involved the production of methanol using a multi-tubular reactor, highlighting her early interest in industrial chemical processes. Throughout her academic career, Heba demonstrated a keen focus on engineering solutions for industrial and environmental challenges. Her solid educational foundation has been instrumental in shaping her research career, enabling her to make significant contributions to membrane technology and water treatment.

Professional Experience

Heba Abdallah has an extensive professional background in chemical engineering, with a focus on membrane technology and water treatment. Since 2021, she has been a Professor at the National Research Centre (NRC) in Cairo, Egypt, where she leads advanced research projects on membrane production and application. From 2016 to 2021, she served as an Associate Professor at the NRC, contributing significantly to research and development in water desalination and wastewater treatment. Prior to that, she was a Researcher at the NRC from 2010 to 2016, where she honed her expertise in membrane fabrication and performance enhancement. From 2006 to 2010, she worked as an Associate Researcher at the NRC, focusing on pilot-scale membrane production and testing. Earlier in her career, Heba gained industrial experience as a Research Assistant at El-Nasr Casting Company from 2001 to 2006 and as an Engineer in the same company from 2000 to 2001. Her diverse experience, combining academic research with industrial practice, has made her a recognized expert in the field of chemical engineering and membrane technology.

Research Interests

Heba Abdallah’s research interests span a wide range of chemical engineering fields, with a primary focus on membrane technology. She specializes in the production of flat sheet, spiral wound, and hollow fiber membranes for water desalination and wastewater treatment. Her work explores catalytic membrane reactors, electrodialysis, and reverse electrodialysis technologies for enhanced separation processes. Heba is also deeply involved in microreactor technology, aiming to develop efficient and sustainable chemical processes. Her research addresses environmental challenges, including the treatment of industrial effluents, removal of contaminants, and development of advanced filtration systems. She is particularly interested in the application of membrane technology in fuel cells, contributing to the development of clean energy solutions. Heba’s research also extends to the fabrication of nanocomposite membranes with enhanced antifouling and photocatalytic properties, targeting improved water purification efficiency. Her commitment to innovative research continues to drive advancements in sustainable water management and industrial membrane applications.

Research Skills

Heba Abdallah possesses a diverse set of research skills that contribute to her expertise in chemical engineering. She excels in the synthesis and fabrication of membranes, including flat sheet, spiral wound, and hollow fiber designs. Her technical proficiency extends to the development and optimization of catalytic membrane reactors for chemical processes. Heba has significant experience in water desalination technologies, including reverse osmosis and forward osmosis systems. She is skilled in the design and application of microreactors for industrial chemical reactions, enhancing process efficiency and scalability. Her analytical skills include membrane performance evaluation, fouling resistance assessment, and photocatalytic activity testing. Additionally, she is adept at using advanced characterization techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to analyze membrane morphology and composition. Heba’s expertise in wastewater treatment, membrane surface modification, and electrodialysis technologies underscores her capacity to develop innovative solutions for water purification and industrial processes.

Awards and Honors

Heba Abdallah has received numerous accolades for her contributions to chemical engineering and membrane technology. Her participation in international conferences and workshops has earned her recognition for presenting groundbreaking research on membrane applications in water treatment. She was honored for her role in the development of innovative polymeric and ceramic membranes, enhancing water purification efficiency. Heba’s collaborations with international institutions, including her training at Holykem Company in China and Alabama University in the United States, reflect her global influence. She has also been acknowledged for her contributions to scientific innovation through her involvement in the Cairo International Exhibition of Innovation. Her membership in the Egyptian National Network in Nanotechnology highlights her commitment to advancing nanotechnology applications in membrane science. Heba’s continuous pursuit of excellence and her impactful contributions to sustainable water management have positioned her as a leading figure in the field of chemical engineering.

Conclusion

Heba Abdallah is a prominent figure in chemical engineering, recognized for her expertise in membrane technology and water treatment. With a strong academic background, extensive research experience, and a passion for innovation, she has made significant contributions to sustainable water management and industrial chemical processes. Her work on advanced membrane fabrication, water desalination, and wastewater treatment has been widely acclaimed in scientific communities. Heba’s commitment to knowledge dissemination is evident through her participation in international conferences and her numerous publications in high-impact journals. Her influence extends beyond research, as she actively mentors and collaborates with other scientists to drive technological advancements. Heba Abdallah’s dedication to developing efficient and eco-friendly membrane technologies continues to play a vital role in addressing global water challenges and promoting sustainable industrial practices.

Publications Top Notes

  1. The Use of Green Synthesized TiO2/MnO2 Nanoparticles in Solar Power Membranes for Pulp and Paper Industry Wastewater Treatment

    • Authors: S.A. Mousa, Sahar A.; H.M. Abdallah, Heba Mohamed; S.A. Khairy, Sherif A.
    • Year: 2025
  2. Modification of Blend Reverse Osmosis Membranes Using ZrO2 for Desalination Process Purposes

    • Authors: S.O. Alaswad, Saleh O.; E.S. Mansor, Eman S.; H.M. Abdallah, Heba Mohamed; A.M.H. Shaban, Ahmed Mahmoud H.
    • Year: 2025
  3. Integrated System of Reverse Osmosis and Forward Pressure-Assisted Osmosis from ZrO2 Base Polymer Membranes for Desalination Technology

    • Authors: S.O. Alaswad, Saleh O.; H.M. Abdallah, Heba Mohamed; E.S. Mansor, Eman S.
    • Year: 2024
  4. Fabrication and Assessment of Performance of Clay-Based Ceramic Membranes Impregnated with CNTs in Dye Removal

    • Authors: K.H. Hamad, Kareem H.; H.M. Abdallah, Heba Mohamed; S.T. Aly, Sohair T.; R.M. Abobeah, Reda M.; S.K. Amin, Sh K.
    • Year: 2024
  5. High-Performance Metal-Organic Frameworks for Efficient Adsorption, Controlled Release, and Membrane Separation of Organophosphate Pesticides

    • Authors: A.M. Ashraf, Abdallah M.; M.H. Khedr, Mohamed Hamdy; A.A. Farghali, Ahmed A.; H.M. Abdallah, Heba Mohamed; M. Taha, Mohamed
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 4
  6. Integrated Membranes System for Water Application in Microbiology/Molecular Biology

    • Authors: H.M. Abdallah, Heba Mohamed; D.N. Abd-Elshafy, Dina Nadeem; M.S. Shalaby, Marwa Saied; A.M.H. Shaban, Ahmed Mahmoud H.; M.M. Bahgat, Mahmoud Mohamed
    • Year: 2024
  7. The Role of Membrane Filtration in Wastewater Treatment

    • Authors: E.S. Mansor, Eman S.; H.M. Abdallah, Heba Mohamed; A.M.H. Shaban, Ahmed Mahmoud H.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1
  8. Production of Disinfective Coating Layer to Facial Masks Supplemented with Camellia sinensis Extract

    • Authors: D.N. Abd-Elshafy, Dina Nadeem; H.M. Abdallah, Heba Mohamed; R. Nadeem, Rola; A.M.H. Shaban, Ahmed Mahmoud H.; M.M. Bahgat, Mahmoud Mohamed
    • Year: 2024
  9. Highly Effective Ultrafiltration Membranes Based on Plastic Waste for Dye Removal from Water

    • Authors: E.S. Mansor, Eman S.; H.M. Abdallah, Heba Mohamed; A.M.H. Shaban, Ahmed Mahmoud H.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 4
  10. Parameters Affecting Synthesis of Sulfonated Chitosan Membrane for Proton Exchange Membrane in Fuel Cells

  • Authors: S.G. Abd-Elnaeem, Sara G.; A.I. Hafez, Azza Ibrahim; K.M. El‑khatib, Kamel M.; M.K. Fouad, Mai Kamal; E.F. Abadir, Ehab Fouad
  • Year: 2024
  • Citations: 1