Early Academic Pursuits 🌱
G. Plason Z. Plakar’s journey into academia began with his unwavering dedication to the sciences. A natural aptitude for chemistry, coupled with a rigorous work ethic, saw him excel during his undergraduate studies at Cuttington University, where he consistently ranked among the top 3% of his class of over 300 students. His 3.81/4.00 GPA underscores not only his intellectual prowess but also his ability to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios.
His undergraduate thesis, titled “A Comparative Analysis of Some Physicochemical Properties of Selected Cane Juices in Liberia,” exemplifies his early interest in addressing real-world challenges. By identifying high levels of toxicity in cane juice products, he contributed to improving public health standards and advocated for better agricultural practices. This formative research experience set the foundation for his future in energy and environmental science.
Professional Endeavors 🚀
Currently pursuing an MSc in Future Energies at the prestigious Africa Center of Excellence in Future Energies and Electrochemical Systems (ACE-FUELS), Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Plakar is on a mission to pioneer sustainable energy solutions. His graduate coursework GPA of 3.91/5.00 reflects his command over advanced concepts in renewable energy and electrochemical systems.
His MSc thesis focuses on “Bioelectricity and Biohydrogen Production from Microbial Treatment of Mixed Blackwater and Agricultural Wastes.” This groundbreaking work integrates waste management with renewable energy generation, reflecting his interdisciplinary expertise. His role in this project spans the full research lifecycle—from designing experiments to publishing findings. This research has already resulted in two peer-reviewed publications, showcasing its scientific and practical significance.
Contributions and Research Focus 🔬
Plakar’s research has consistently sought to address pressing global challenges. His undergraduate thesis laid the groundwork for sustainable agricultural practices by exposing harmful impurities in local food products. Moving forward, his graduate studies pivoted toward addressing the twin challenges of waste management and clean energy production.
Through his MSc research, Plakar has demonstrated how microbial treatment systems can simultaneously treat waste and generate biohydrogen and electricity. His dual focus on environmental sustainability and energy innovation exemplifies the transformative potential of multidisciplinary research. His technical expertise spans advanced laboratory techniques such as UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy, HPLC, and GC-MS chromatography, as well as software tools like SPSS, OriginPro, and ChemDraw, making him a versatile and forward-thinking scientist.
Accolades and Recognition 🏅
Plakar’s academic excellence and research impact have been widely recognized:
- WACEENET Mobility Scholarship (Oct 2023): Enabled his participation in a student exchange program at CERME, enhancing his exposure to international research collaborations.
- World Bank Second ACE Impact Scholarship (Nov 2021): Funded his MSc studies, underscoring his potential as a leader in the field of future energies.
- Firestone-Liberia Gold Scholarship Award (Sept 2016): A highly competitive scholarship with a mere 4% success rate, awarded for his outstanding performance and promise during his undergraduate studies.
These accolades reflect Plakar’s ability to not only excel academically but also secure competitive funding opportunities to advance his education and research.
Impact and Influence 🌍
Plakar’s work has already made tangible contributions to sustainable development. By co-treating blackwater and agricultural waste to produce clean energy, his research addresses key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7) and Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6).
Furthermore, his recommendations on improving agricultural practices during his undergraduate studies have influenced public health policies in Liberia, highlighting his ability to bridge research with societal impact. His involvement in multidisciplinary projects and his success in securing international scholarships serve as an inspiration for young scientists in Liberia and beyond.
Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟
Plakar envisions a future where sustainable energy technologies transform both urban and rural communities. By continuing his research in renewable energy systems, he aims to develop cost-effective solutions that address the dual challenges of waste management and energy scarcity.
As a mentor, he plans to inspire and guide the next generation of researchers, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and societal impact. His career trajectory suggests a lasting legacy of scientific innovation, environmental stewardship, and educational mentorship.
Conclusion 📝
G. Plason Z. Plakar’s academic and professional journey is a testament to the transformative power of curiosity, dedication, and innovation. From addressing public health challenges through chemistry to pioneering renewable energy solutions, his contributions span diverse fields with a unifying focus on sustainability. With a solid foundation of academic excellence and a vision for a greener future, Plakar stands poised to make a lasting impact on global energy systems and environmental policies.