Assist. Prof. Dr. Sadia Naz | Chemistry | Women Researcher Award
Assistant Professor (IPFP) at University of the Punjab, Pakistan
Dr. Sadia Naz is a distinguished researcher in the field of green chemistry, with a specific focus on ionic liquids and their applications in sustainable technologies. She has developed innovative chemical processes for biomass conversion and has significantly contributed to environmentally friendly chemical synthesis. Her academic journey and professional achievements reflect her deep commitment to scientific innovation, education, and societal impact. With an impressive record of high-impact publications, patents, and national-level awards, Dr. Naz stands out as a leading figure in the realm of sustainable chemistry in Pakistan. Her work is aligned with the global sustainability agenda, particularly in advancing biorefinery techniques and industrial applications of agricultural waste. Beyond research, she plays an active role in academia and mentoring, empowering young scientists, particularly women, through her involvement in teaching and training. She is also recognized for her entrepreneurial spirit, leading a start-up focused on industrial bio-solutions. Her contributions exemplify excellence in research and innovation.
Professional Profile
Education
Dr. Sadia Naz pursued her academic training in chemistry with distinction, obtaining her Ph.D. from the School of Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore, where she conducted groundbreaking research on the synthesis and application of ionic liquids for biorefineries. Prior to this, she completed her MPhil in Chemistry at the same institution, focusing on lignocellulosic biomass processing using acidic ionic liquids, which laid the foundation for her doctoral work. She began her academic journey with a BS in Chemistry from Lahore College for Women University, where she also engaged in synthetic organic chemistry research. Each stage of her education reflects a consistent theme of research excellence, particularly in the domains of green chemistry, waste valorization, and sustainable processes. Throughout her academic career, Dr. Naz has demonstrated intellectual rigor and innovation, earning recognition and awards that highlight her potential as a scientific leader. Her strong academic background underpins her impactful career in research and innovation.
Professional Experience
Dr. Sadia Naz’s professional career spans research, teaching, and innovation. She is currently serving as a Research Associate at the Centre for Research in Ionic Liquids, University of the Punjab, where she contributes to several ongoing projects in sustainable chemistry. Additionally, she teaches postgraduate courses in chemistry and entrepreneurship as a Visiting Lecturer, bridging scientific research with commercial application. Previously, she worked as a Research Assistant on a prestigious HEC-funded NRPU project, and earlier served as a Lecturer in Chemistry at PSE College. She also demonstrated practical lab sessions for BS and MSc students during her early academic years. Dr. Naz was selected for the HEC IPFP Fellowship, reflecting national recognition of her academic excellence. Her professional experience is enriched by interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation-driven research, and active engagement in technology commercialization. Through her leadership in organizing conferences and presenting at national and international forums, she has also fostered a collaborative research culture.
Research Interests
Dr. Sadia Naz’s research revolves around the design and application of ionic liquids for sustainable chemical processes. She is especially passionate about converting agricultural waste into valuable platform chemicals using green chemistry methods. Her studies have led to cost-effective, scalable, and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional biomass processing techniques. She has explored the synthesis of biofuels and other fine chemicals through one-pot processes involving ionic liquids, significantly contributing to the field of biorefinery. Her interdisciplinary approach combines organic synthesis, catalysis, and environmental chemistry to address real-world industrial challenges. Additionally, she is exploring biocompatible materials for wastewater treatment and energy storage, reflecting her interest in solving both environmental and energy-related problems. Dr. Naz’s work is aligned with global sustainability goals and is motivated by the need to replace harmful industrial practices with greener alternatives. Her forward-thinking perspective makes her a valuable contributor to the future of sustainable science and technology.
Awards and Honors
Dr. Sadia Naz has received several prestigious awards and honors that recognize her scientific innovation and entrepreneurial excellence. Notably, she was awarded the Prime Minister’s National Innovation Award (PMNIA) in 2023 for her startup ChemSolTech, which focuses on converting local agricultural waste into industrial raw materials. This achievement includes substantial prize money and a follow-up incubation grant. She also received a Technology Award at the 9th Invention to Innovation Summit in 2024 and ranked among the top 5 in SDPI’s Sustainability Awards under the category of production innovation and decarbonization. Her innovative research has led to the successful grant of two patents in 2024, marking significant milestones in her career. She has authored a book with Elsevier and contributed to high-impact journals with a cumulative impact factor of over 100. Her consistent recognition in national platforms and conferences demonstrates her role as a leader in green chemistry and a role model for women in STEM.
Conclusion
Dr. Sadia Naz is a highly deserving candidate for the Women Researcher Award. Her blend of scientific rigor, technological innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and community engagement reflects an exemplary woman researcher in Pakistan’s scientific landscape. Her work is not only academically significant but also applied, scalable, and impactful—key attributes for recognition in research excellence awards.
Publications Top Notes
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Title: Facile fabrication of high capacity citric acid cross-linked chitosan and carboxymethyl cellulose-based hydrogel for fast kinetics removal of Cu(II)
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Authors: Maida Akhlaq, Sadia Naz, Maliha Uroos
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Journal: Adsorption
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Year: 2024
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Citations: 10
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Title: Pharmaceutical applications of lidocaine-based ionic liquids – A remarkable innovation in drug delivery
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Authors: Bushra Mir, Bakhtawar, Sadia Naz, Bisma Ali, Faiza Sharif
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Journal: [Not specified]
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Year: [Not specified]
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Citations: 12