Iqtidar Ahmad | photocatalytic water splitting | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Iqtidar Ahmad | photocatalytic water splitting | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral fellow, Shenzhen University, China.

Dr. Iqtidar Ahmad is a Pakistani physicist specializing in material physics and chemistry, currently serving as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, China. He completed his Ph.D. in 2022 at Kunming University of Science and Technology, China. Dr. Ahmad has held teaching positions in Pakistan, including at Government Degree College, Lohor, and Army Public School and College, Mansehra. His research focuses on low-dimensional materials, van der Waals heterostructures, and their applications in optoelectronics, spintronics, and photocatalysis. He has co-authored several publications in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to the field of material science.

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Education 

Dr. Ahmad’s academic journey began with a Diploma of Associate Engineering (D.A.E.) in Electronics from Gandahara College of Technology, Chakdara, Pakistan, in 2009. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Physics at Hazara University Mansehra, Pakistan, graduating in 2013 with a CGPA of 3.42/4. Continuing his studies, he completed a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Physics at the same institution in 2016, achieving a CGPA of 3.92/4. Dr. Ahmad further advanced his expertise by earning a Ph.D. in Material Physics and Chemistry from Kunming University of Science and Technology, China, in December 2022. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his research in material science and physics.

Experience 

Dr. Ahmad has a diverse professional background combining academia and research. He currently serves as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, China, since 2023. Prior to this, he held teaching positions in Pakistan, including Lecturer roles at Government Degree College, Lohor (2016–2017), Army Public School and College, Mansehra (2015–2016), and Suffa Model School (2013–2014). His research experience encompasses computational studies on two-dimensional materials and their applications in energy-related fields. Dr. Ahmad’s work has led to several publications in peer-reviewed journals, reflecting his commitment to advancing knowledge in material science.

Research Focus 

Dr. Ahmad’s research primarily focuses on the theoretical investigation of low-dimensional materials and their heterostructures, utilizing first-principles calculations to explore their electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties. His work aims to design materials with enhanced performance for applications in optoelectronics, spintronics, and photocatalysis. He employs advanced computational techniques, including density functional theory (DFT), to study phase transitions, strain engineering, and the effects of doping and adsorption on material properties. Dr. Ahmad’s research contributes to the development of materials with tailored properties for energy-related applications, such as water splitting and energy storage. His expertise in computational material science positions him at the forefront of research in this domain.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Title: Two-dimensional SiH/In₂XY (X, Y = S, Se) van der Waals heterostructures for efficient water splitting photocatalysis: A DFT approach

    • Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

    • Date: April 18, 2025

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2025.04.289

    • Summary: This study investigates the photocatalytic properties of SiH/In₂XY heterostructures for water splitting applications, utilizing density functional theory to analyze their efficiency.

  2. Title: Theoretical insights into Sb₂Te₃/Te van der Waals heterostructures for achieving very high figure of merit and conversion efficiency

    • Journal: International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer

    • Date: March 1, 2025

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheatmasstransfer.2024.126479

    • Summary: This paper explores the thermoelectric properties of Sb₂Te₃/Te heterostructures, aiming to enhance their efficiency for energy conversion applications.

  3. Title: The van der Waals heterostructures of blue phosphorene with GaN/GeC for high-performance thermoelectric applications

    • Journal: APL Materials

    • Date: January 1, 2025

    • DOI: 10.1063/5.0243511

    • Summary: This research examines the potential of blue phosphorene/GaN/GeC heterostructures for thermoelectric applications, focusing on their performance and efficiency.

  4. Title: Enhanced spintronic and electronic properties in MTe₂-GdCl₂ (M=Mo, W) heterojunctions

    • Journal: Surfaces and Interfaces

    • Date: December 2024

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.surfin.2024.105364

    • Summary: This paper investigates the spintronic and electronic

  5. Title: Enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity in SiPGaS/arsenene-based van der Waals heterostructures

    • Journal: iScience

    • Date: 2023

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108025

    • Summary: Demonstrates enhanced visible-light absorption and charge separation efficiency in SiPGaS/arsenene heterostructures, making them promising candidates for photocatalytic water splitting.

  6. Title: High thermoelectric performance of two-dimensional SiPGaS/As heterostructures

    • Journal: Nanoscale

    • Date: 2023

    • DOI: 10.1039/d3nr00316g

    • Summary: Investigates thermoelectric efficiency improvements through phonon suppression and high Seebeck coefficients in SiPGaS/As heterostructures.

  7. Title: Nickel selenide nano-cubes anchored on cadmium selenide nanoparticles for hybrid energy storage

    • Journal: Journal of Energy Storage

    • Date: 2023

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.est.2023.107065

    • Summary: First-ever design of NiSe nanocubes on CdSe for hybrid supercapacitor applications showing high capacitance and stability.

  8. Title: Versatile characteristics of Ars/SGaInS van der Waals heterostructures

    • Journal: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics

    • Date: 2023

    • DOI: 10.1039/d2cp04832a

    • Summary: Analyzes multifunctional characteristics for applications in optoelectronics and photovoltaics.

  9. Title: Two-dimensional Janus SGaInSe/PtSe₂ heterostructures for water splitting

    • Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

    • Date: 2022

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2022.06.188

    • Summary: Examines potential for solar-driven water splitting, emphasizing electron-hole separation efficiency.

  10. Title: Electronic, mechanical, and photocatalytic properties of Janus XGaInY monolayers

    • Journal: RSC Advances

    • Date: 2021

    • DOI: 10.1039/d1ra02324a

    • Summary: Explores tunable bandgaps and mechanical stability of Janus monolayers for photocatalysis.

Conclusion

Dr. Iqtidar Ahmad is a highly qualified, technically capable, and productive researcher in the field of computational materials science. His work demonstrates depth, novelty, and interdisciplinary relevance, making him a strong candidate for a Best Researcher Award, especially at the early to mid-career level.

Ahmad Fallatah | Hydrogen Production | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Ahmad Fallatah | Hydrogen Production | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher, KACST, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Ahmad Fallatah is the Deputy Director of Engineering in the Management Department at the Future Mobility Institute (KACST) in Saudi Arabia. With a passion for advancing engineering technologies, he has made significant contributions as an academic researcher since 2010. His extensive expertise encompasses mechanical engineering, nanotechnology, and biosensing. Dr. Fallatah is committed to fostering innovation in engineering and enhancing collaboration across disciplines. He is proficient in both Arabic and English, allowing him to engage effectively in international research communities.

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Strengths for the Award 

  1. Academic Credentials: Dr. Fallatah holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University, supported by a solid academic foundation with a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in the same field. His educational background demonstrates a commitment to advancing knowledge in engineering.
  2. Research Contributions: He has an impressive list of publications in reputable journals, focusing on nanostructures and their applications in biosensing and photocatalytic properties. His recent works published in Current Nanoscience highlight his ability to conduct innovative research with real-world applications.
  3. Professional Experience: With over a decade at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology and experience in technical roles at prominent aerospace companies, Dr. Fallatah has a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, enhancing his research capabilities.
  4. Interdisciplinary Skills: His certifications in management techniques and analytical methods (such as UV-Vis and SEM analysis) complement his engineering skills, positioning him as a well-rounded researcher capable of leading complex projects.
  5. Collaborative Team Player: Dr. Fallatah’s soft skills, such as teamwork, project management, and leadership, indicate his ability to work effectively in collaborative environments, essential for successful research outcomes.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Increased Visibility: While he has several impactful publications, enhancing his presence in conferences and workshops could further amplify his research’s impact and foster networking opportunities.
  2. Diverse Research Portfolio: Expanding his research topics to include emerging fields or interdisciplinary projects could enhance his profile and open new avenues for funding and collaboration.
  3. Outreach and Mentorship: Engaging more in mentorship roles or community outreach can help inspire upcoming researchers and enhance the visibility of his work within broader academic and industrial contexts.

Education 

Dr. Fallatah earned his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University, USA, in May 2022. He also holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Dayton, USA, awarded in May 2015, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Yanbu Industrial College, obtained in March 2009. His strong educational foundation has equipped him with a deep understanding of engineering principles, particularly in the fields of nanotechnology and materials science. This academic journey reflects his dedication to excellence and continuous learning, laying the groundwork for his impactful research career.

Experience

Dr. Fallatah has over a decade of professional experience in engineering and research. He has served as an Academic Researcher at King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology since 2010, where he conducts cutting-edge research in mechanical engineering and nanotechnology. In 2022, he briefly worked as a Technical Services Engineering Senior Specialist at The Helicopter and Jet Company. Prior to that, he gained valuable experience as an Aircraft Engineer at Nas Air (2009-2010) and as an Aircraft Mechanic at Alsalam Aerospace Industries (2002-2006). His diverse roles have honed his technical skills and enhanced his ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical engineering challenges.

Research Focus 

Dr. Fallatah’s research primarily focuses on nanostructures and their applications in biosensing and photocatalytic processes. His work investigates the influence of morphology on the performance of materials such as cerium oxide and zinc oxide nanostructures, with implications for improving biosensors and photoelectrochemical systems. He has published extensively on topics like glucose biosensors and the photochemical activity of nanostructures, contributing to the understanding of how material properties affect functionality. Dr. Fallatah’s interdisciplinary approach combines principles from mechanical engineering, materials science, and chemistry, aiming to develop innovative solutions for real-world challenges in sensing technology and energy conversion.

Publication Top Notes

  • Influence of Morphology Change on Photoelectrochemical Activity of Cerium Oxide Nanostructures. 🌟
  • Influence of Zinc Oxide Nanostructure Morphology on its Photocatalytic Properties. 🔍
  • Size Controlled Copper (I) Oxide Nanoparticles Influence Sensitivity of Glucose Biosensor. 🍭
  • Cerium Oxide Based Glucose Biosensors: Influence of Morphology and Underlying Substrate on Biosensor Performance. 📊
  • Sensitive Biosensor Based on Shape-Controlled ZnO Nanostructures Grown on Flexible Porous Substrate for Pesticide Detection. 🚜
  • Utilization of Inexpensive Carbon-Based Substrates as Platforms for Sensing. 🌱
  • Ceria Nanostructures as Biosensing Platform for Glucose Sensing. 🧪
  • Role of Morphology on Zinc Oxide Nanostructures for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Activity and Hydrogen Production. 💡
  • Morphology Controlled Oxide Nanostructures and Their Effect on Biosensing Capabilities and Photocatalytic Activity. 📉

Conclusion

Dr. Ahmad Fallatah is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award due to his exceptional academic qualifications, substantial research contributions, and professional experience. His strengths in collaboration and project management further enhance his profile. By focusing on increasing visibility and diversifying his research portfolio, he could further solidify his status as a leader in the field. Dr. Fallatah exemplifies the qualities of a researcher dedicated to advancing knowledge and technology, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.