Sadia Naz | Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

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

  • Title: Facile fabrication of high capacity citric acid cross-linked chitosan and carboxymethyl cellulose-based hydrogel for fast kinetics removal of Cu(II)

  • Authors: Maida Akhlaq, Sadia Naz, Maliha Uroos

  • Journal: Adsorption

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 10

 

  • Title: Pharmaceutical applications of lidocaine-based ionic liquids – A remarkable innovation in drug delivery

  • Authors: Bushra Mir, Bakhtawar, Sadia Naz, Bisma Ali, Faiza Sharif

  • Journal: [Not specified]

  • Year: [Not specified]

  • Citations: 12

 

Farag Altalbawy | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Farag Altalbawy | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia

Prof. Dr. Farag M. A. Altalbawy is a distinguished professor of Photoorganic Chemistry with a wealth of experience spanning academia and research. Born on August 23, 1966, in Giza, Egypt, he currently holds a professorial position at the University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, while also being associated with Cairo University, Egypt. His research spans various fields including organic chemistry, heterocyclic chemistry, spectroscopic chemistry, and nanotechnology. Prof. Altalbawy has authored numerous impactful papers in well-regarded journals and continues to explore the intersection of chemistry and emerging technologies. With a passion for advancing the understanding of chemical processes and the development of new materials, his contributions to science have had a lasting effect in both academic and practical domains. He holds a Ph.D. from Cairo University, where he has been involved in teaching, mentoring, and guiding future scientists.

Profile

Education 

Prof. Dr. Farag M. A. Altalbawy’s academic journey reflects his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. He earned his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Cairo University in 2005, which laid the foundation for his career as an expert in chemical research. Prior to that, he obtained his M.Sc. from Monify University in 2001, focusing on chemistry and its applications. His educational journey began at Cairo University, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in 1988, earning Distinction for his exceptional academic performance. Prof. Altalbawy’s strong educational background has equipped him with the expertise to explore various branches of chemistry, including photoorganic, physical, and heterocyclic chemistry, while continuously contributing to the scientific community through research and teaching. His advanced academic degrees and extensive experience have shaped his leadership in both academic institutions and research projects.

Research Focus 

Prof. Dr. Farag M. A. Altalbawy’s research focus is rooted in organic chemistry, particularly in the areas of heterocyclic chemistry, spectroscopic chemistry, and nanotechnology. His work delves into the synthesis, characterization, and application of chemical compounds, particularly those with pharmaceutical significance. One of his key areas of interest is the development of dendrimers and nanoparticles as new drug carriers, with an emphasis on their therapeutic potential in drug delivery systems. He is also deeply engaged in exploring the photoorganic chemistry of molecular compounds, particularly the interactions between light and organic molecules. Prof. Altalbawy’s interdisciplinary research spans a wide array of topics such as nanocarriers for pharmaceuticals, antimicrobial agents, and environmental applications, including his studies on carbon capture and clean energy technologies. His ongoing research is at the forefront of developing sustainable chemical solutions that can benefit both science and society.

Publication Titles 

  1. Dendrimers: A New Race of Pharmaceutical Nanocarriers 🧬💊
  2. Curcumin Nanoparticles as Promising Therapeutic Agents for Drug Targets 💡🧪
  3. Regret-Based Multi-Objective Optimization of Carbon Capture Facility in CHP-Based Microgrid with Carbon Dioxide Cycling 🌍⚡
  4. Synthesis and Characterization of Some New Bis-Pyrazolyl-Thiazoles Incorporating the Thiophene Moiety as Potent Anti-Tumor Agents 🧫💉
  5. Synthesis and Tautomeric Structure of Novel 3,7-Bis(Arylazo)-2,6-Diphenyl-1H-Imidazo-[1,2-b] Pyrazoles in Ground and Excited States 🔬⚛️
  6. Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Some Novel Bis-α,β-Unsaturated Ketones, Nicotinonitrile, 1,2-Dihydropyridine-3-Carbonitrile, Fused Thieno[2,3-b]Pyridine 🦠💊
  7. Infection Pattern, Case Fatality Rate and Spread of Lassa Virus in Nigeria 🦠🌍
  8. Synthesis and Tautomeric Structure of 3,7-Bis(Arylazo)-6-Methyl-2-Phenyl-1H-Imidazo[1,2-b]Pyrazoles in Ground and Excited States 🔬💡
  9. Synthesis, Acidity Constants and Tautomeric Structure of 7‐Arylhydrazono [1, 2, 4] Triazolo [3, 4‐b][1, 3, 4] Thiadiazines in Ground and Excited States 🔬🧪
  10. Numerical Assessment of the Impacts of Non-Newtonian Nanofluid and Hydrophobic Surfaces on Conjugate Heat Transfer and Irreversibility in a Silicon Microchannel Heat-Sink 🌡️🔧
  11. Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Some New Pyrazole, Fused Pyrazolo[1,5-a] Pyrimidine and Pyrazolo[1,5-d]Pyrimido[4,5-d][1,2,3] Triazine Derivatives 🦠⚛️
  12. Employing Sisko Non-Newtonian Model to Investigate the Thermal Behavior of Blood Flow in a Stenosis Artery 💉💡
  13. Descriptive Analysis of Heavy Metals Content of Beef from Eastern Uganda and Their Safety for Public Consumption 🥩🌍
  14. Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Activity of Some Transition Metal Complexes with Schiff Base Ligands Derived from 4-Amino-5-Phenyl-4H-1,2,4-Triazole-3 🔬⚗️
  15. Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of 1,2,4-Triazolo[4,3-b][1,2,4,5]Tetrazines 🦠💊
  16. Ultrasound-Promoted Metal-Free Homogenous Olefins Epoxidation and Direct Conversion of Alkenes to Cyclic Carbonates Using Catalytic TAIm [X](X= WO42-, HSO5-) Recyclable Ionic 🔬⚡
  17. Smartphone-Facilitated Mobile Colorimetric Probes for Rapid Monitoring of Chemical Contaminations in Food 📱🔬
  18. Effect of Porosity on the Electrical and Photoelectrical Properties of Textured n+ p Silicon Solar Cells ☀️⚡
  19. Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Novel 5-Benzoyl-N-Substituted Amino- and 5-Benzoyl-N-Sulfonylamino-4-Alkylsulfanyl-2-Pyridones 💉🧫
  20. The Roles of Artificial Intelligence Techniques for Increasing the Prediction Performance of Important Parameters and Their Optimization in Membrane Processes 🤖🔬