Mr. Waseem Ahmed Khattak | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Quaid-I-Azam University, Islamabad-45320, Pakistan, Pakistan

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Early Academic Pursuits

Waseem Ahmed Khattak embarked on his academic journey with a strong inclination toward plant sciences and biological research. His Bachelor of Science in Botany from the University of Science and Technology Bannu (2017–2021) laid a solid foundation in plant physiology, microbiology, molecular biology, and environmental science. His undergraduate thesis, “Allelopathic Effect of Euphorbia Helioscopia L. Aqueous Seed Extract on Maize and Toxicity of Heavy Metal (HgCl₂) on Maize,” demonstrated early research capability and a curiosity to explore the physiological responses of crops to external stressors.

Building on this momentum, Waseem pursued a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Plant Sciences (2022–2024) at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, a leading institution in Pakistan. His specialization in Plant Physiology and Mycology, paired with advanced coursework in areas such as Transgenic Research, Mycosymbiosis, and Environmental Pollution, enriched his theoretical and practical understanding of contemporary plant science. His MPhil thesis titled “Impact of Chitosan Coated Urea Nanofertilizers on the Solanum Lycopersicum L. (Tomato): A Biochemical and Morphological Assessment for Enhanced Crop Production,” reflects a progressive approach toward sustainable agriculture and plant biotechnology.

Professional Endeavors

Beyond academics, Waseem has actively engaged in initiatives that reflect his commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and applied knowledge. His involvement with the Durshal UST Bannu Startup Incubation illustrates a forward-thinking mindset, where research meets innovation. Through the Green Urban Development Pakistan project, in partnership with the US Embassy, the School of Leadership Foundation, and the Institute of Urbanism, he participated in capacity-building programs focused on sustainable environmental solutions—a testament to his interest in integrating plant sciences with urban development and ecological health.

Additionally, his participation in a Virtual Clinical Internship highlights his adaptive learning capabilities and willingness to expand his interdisciplinary knowledge base.

Contributions and Research Focus

Waseem’s research efforts are deeply rooted in exploring sustainable agricultural practices, plant-environment interactions, and the potential of nanotechnology in crop enhancement. His MPhil research, focusing on chitosan-coated urea nanofertilizers, investigates not only the biochemical and morphological changes in Solanum lycopersicum L. (tomato) but also addresses global concerns regarding food security and fertilizer efficiency.

His skills extend into multiple laboratory domains, including FTIR, UV-vis spectrophotometry, DNA extraction, elemental analysis, and nutritional profiling. These skills have allowed him to conduct in-depth phenotypic and physiological analyses. In particular, his expertise in nanofertilizer synthesis positions him at the intersection of nanotechnology and plant physiology, making his research highly relevant for modern agricultural solutions.

Waseem is also proficient with several analytical and scientific tools, such as Origin Software, ArcGIS, ChemSketch, RhizoVision, Biorender, and ANOVA (Statistic 8.1), which aid in complex data visualization and analysis—an essential asset for advanced research work.

Accolades and Recognition

Though still in the early phases of his academic career, Waseem has earned recognition through his association with reputed mentors and institutions. He is recommended by distinguished faculty members such as Assistant Professor Dr. Malka Saba, Professor Dr. Umar Masood Qureshi, and Professor Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad from Quaid-i-Azam University. Their endorsements not only speak to his academic dedication but also to the trust he has earned as a diligent and competent researcher.

Furthermore, his selection for collaborative programs supported by international organizations such as the US Embassy reflects a growing reputation beyond academic circles and into the development and policy-making landscape.

Impact and Influence

Waseem’s work is becoming increasingly impactful as it touches upon some of the most pressing issues in agricultural sustainability. By focusing on biodegradable nanofertilizers, his research addresses the critical challenge of reducing chemical fertilizer dependency while boosting crop yield and soil health. His academic focus intersects with global efforts to mitigate climate change, reduce heavy metal toxicity in food chains, and promote eco-friendly agricultural techniques.

Moreover, his earlier work on allelopathic effects and heavy metal toxicity continues to be relevant for understanding plant-plant and plant-environment interactions. This not only contributes to the field of ecological botany but also informs practical decisions in agriculture and crop management.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Waseem Ahmed Khattak is poised to emerge as a leading voice in the domains of plant physiology, sustainable agriculture, and nanobiotechnology. His combined knowledge of field experimentation, advanced biochemical analysis, and digital tools sets him on a path to contribute significantly to agricultural research, especially in resource-constrained regions.

He envisions using his expertise to address challenges such as soil degradation, low crop productivity, and the environmental risks of conventional farming. Through a research-driven approach and collaborative spirit, Waseem aims to leave a lasting legacy in both academic and applied scientific communities, contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for agriculture.

Improving patient care with machine learning: A game-changer for healthcare

Authors: AH Shahid, WA Khattak
Journal: Appl Res Artif Intell Cloud Comp
Year: 2022

Ethical considerations and challenges in the deployment of natural language processing systems in healthcare

Authors: WA Khattak, F Rabbi
Journal: International Journal of Applied Health Care Analytics
Year: 2023

Enhancing urban health: machine learning applications in environmental management

Authors: I Malik, WA Khattak
Journal: Journal of Sustainable Infrastructure for Cities and Societies
Year: 2023

Personalized healthcare in the age of AI: A comprehensive overview of its applications and limitations

Authors: MM Amri, V Kumar, WA Khattak, D Pandey, A Kundu
Journal: International Journal of Intelligent Automation and Computing
Year: 2021

Mitigating heavy metal pollution in agriculture: A multi-omics and nanotechnology approach to safeguard global wheat production

Authors: M Anas, WA Khattak, S Fahad, N Alrawiq, HS Alrawiq, NR Abdelsalam, …
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials Advances
Year: 2024

Dr. Muhammad Shahid | Best Researcher Award | Best Researcher Award

KFUPM, Saudi Arabia

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Early Academic Pursuits

Muhammad Shahid’s academic journey is marked by determination, intellectual curiosity, and a deep commitment to solving real-world energy problems through scientific rigor. Hailing from Lahore, Pakistan, Shahid demonstrated an early interest in the technical sciences, particularly in energy systems, which are pivotal to national development and economic growth. His formal education in engineering laid the groundwork for a lifelong passion for sustainable energy planning. Over time, his academic interests matured into a specialized focus on energy forecasting, environmental sustainability, and policy-oriented research.

What set Shahid apart during his academic development was his fascination with energy modeling frameworks, particularly the LEAP (Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning) system. This tool, known for its robust application in forecasting and backcasting national energy demands, became central to Shahid’s methodological approach. Through formal education and persistent self-driven learning, he gained proficiency in using simulation models to analyze complex interrelations between energy supply, demand, and environmental impacts. His academic pursuits were never confined to the classroom but expanded into research collaborations, scholarly debates, and hands-on projects that connected theory with national-level policy challenges.

Professional Endeavors

Currently associated with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) in Saudi Arabia, Muhammad Shahid is engaged in a broad range of professional and research activities that span borders and disciplines. His work addresses the nexus of energy security, environmental emissions, and economic sustainability—fields of critical importance to both developed and developing nations. Through his affiliations, he has been able to integrate academic inquiry with practical, policy-relevant solutions aimed at mitigating the energy crises facing countries like Pakistan.

His research at KFUPM, complemented by extensive collaborations in Pakistan and internationally, highlights his role as both a scholar and a practitioner. He is deeply involved in energy policy modeling, renewable energy integration, and emissions forecasting, using a suite of analytical tools and approaches including LEAP and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Analysis (MCDMA). His research not only provides insight into energy trends but also suggests actionable pathways toward achieving a sustainable, low-carbon future.

Contributions and Research Focus

Muhammad Shahid’s research portfolio reflects a deliberate and thoughtful engagement with pressing energy challenges. His contributions have focused on the integration of forecasting models, policy planning tools, and environmental assessment techniques. Among his recent works is a highly impactful study titled “Solar PV End-of-Life Waste Recycling: An Assessment of Mechanical Recycling Methods and Proposed Hybrid Laser and High Voltage Pulse Crushing Method,” published in Resources (2024). This publication, in an ISI-indexed Q2 journal, introduces a forward-looking methodology to handle the mounting waste challenges from solar photovoltaic systems—an issue critical to the sustainability of renewable energy technologies.

In addition to his published work, several of Shahid’s manuscripts are currently under review in high-impact journals such as Fuel, Energy, Utilities Policy, and Renewable Energy. These papers delve into subjects like integrated fuel demand in Pakistan, sustainable energy supply modeling, environmental emissions reduction strategies, and long-term policy planning using LEAP-based frameworks. Through these studies, Shahid positions himself at the intersection of academia, engineering, and policymaking.

His collaborations with renowned co-authors and institutions underscore his research’s interdisciplinary nature and global relevance. He is actively contributing to discourses that aim to reshape how countries approach energy diversification, resource planning, and climate resilience.

Accolades and Recognition

Shahid’s growing body of scholarly work has earned him significant recognition within the academic community. His publications are not only accepted by reputable international journals but are also increasingly cited, reflecting their importance to current and emerging energy discourses. His reputation as a modeling expert and energy strategist has led to invitations to co-author international projects and participate in key discussions on sustainable development. Though early in his career, the depth and quality of his work speak volumes about his academic integrity and future potential.

His presence in international research networks and peer-reviewed outlets also signals a broader acknowledgment of his expertise. By combining local insights with global standards, Shahid has carved a unique space for himself in the academic and policy-driven worlds of energy research.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Muhammad Shahid’s work can be seen across academic, governmental, and environmental landscapes. In Pakistan, his research serves as a guiding tool for understanding how integrated energy systems can lead to more resilient and sustainable infrastructure. His models have practical applications, such as identifying low-emission energy pathways, planning green transport systems, and evaluating the lifecycle of renewable technologies like solar PV.

Globally, Shahid’s contributions are resonating with a wider community of scholars and practitioners working on energy justice and environmental protection. By blending quantitative models with qualitative policy evaluations, his work bridges the gap between theory and practice, offering solutions that are technically sound and socially equitable.

His proposed frameworks, particularly those utilizing backcasting and hybrid modeling, are becoming instrumental tools in energy scenario planning. These innovations enhance the ability of stakeholders to navigate the complex and rapidly changing landscape of global energy systems.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As he continues to advance in his career, Muhammad Shahid is poised to become a leading voice in the transition toward clean, reliable, and inclusive energy systems. His legacy is already taking shape through the frameworks he has introduced and the insights he has offered into the management of energy and environmental resources. Looking ahead, his future work is likely to expand into areas such as AI-driven energy analytics, climate-resilient infrastructure planning, and circular economy models for renewable waste.

His vision extends beyond academic boundaries, aiming to inform real-world decision-making and foster sustainable development at the grassroots and national levels. With a deep sense of responsibility toward both his homeland and the global community, Muhammad Shahid’s future contributions promise to be as impactful and innovative as his current accomplishments.

Energy Security and Renewable Energy Policy Analysis of Pakistan

Authors: T. Aized, M. Shahid, A.A. Bhatti, M. Saleem, G. Anandarajah
Journal: Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Vol. 84, pp. 155–169
Year: 2018 | Citations: 237

Electricity Supply Pathways Based on Renewable Resources: A Sustainable Energy Future for Pakistan

Authors: M. Shahid, K. Ullah, K. Imran, I. Mahmood, A. Mahmood
Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production, Vol. 263, 121511
Year: 2020 | Citations: 63
A model-based exploration of renewable electricity scenarios using LEAP for sustainability.

LEAP Simulated Economic Evaluation of Sustainable Scenarios to Fulfill the Regional Electricity Demand in Pakistan

Authors: M. Shahid, K. Ullah, K. Imran, A. Mahmood, M. Arentsen
Journal: Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments, Vol. 46, 101292
Year: 2021 | Citations: 46

Assessment of Long-term Energy and Environmental Impacts of the Cleaner Technologies for Brick Production

Authors: A. Abbas, M.B. Sajid, M.A. Iftikhar, A.H. Khoja, M.M. Ahmad, M. Shahid, K. Ullah
Journal: Energy Reports, Vol. 7, pp. 7157–7169
Year: 2021 | Citations: 35

Economic and Environmental Analysis of Green Transport Penetration in Pakistan

Authors: M. Shahid, K. Ullah, K. Imran, N. Masroor, M.B. Sajid
Journal: Energy Policy, Vol. 166, 113040
Year: 2022 | Citations: 21
Quantifies green vehicle integration in terms of emissions and economics using energy models.

The Long-term Forecast of Gilgit Baltistan (GB)’s Electricity Demand

Authors: A. Hussain, K. Ullah, U. Perwez, M. Shahid
Conference: 2018 International Conference on Power Generation Systems and Renewable Energy Technologies
Year: 2018 | Citations: 14

Prof Dr. Chengming Wang |Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Huazhong Agricultural University, China

Author Profile

Scopus 

Early Academic Pursuits

Professor Chengming Wang’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in analytical chemistry at Wuhan University, where he earned both his Bachelor of Science (1983–1987) and Master of Science (1987–1990) degrees. His fascination with chemistry and its practical applications led him to further explore the interrelationship between material science and food engineering. Pursuing his academic interests across borders, he earned a Ph.D. in Material Engineering from Fukui University in Japan (2000–2003), where he delved deeper into applied material research. His multidisciplinary background provided a powerful platform to bridge the gap between food chemistry, materials, and engineering innovations. He later returned to Huazhong Agricultural University as a postdoctoral fellow (2004–2006) in Food Science and Engineering, marking the beginning of a prolific career in academic research and technological development.

Professional Endeavors

Currently a full professor at Huazhong Agricultural University, Professor Wang has made an indelible mark in the field of oils and fats processing and the comprehensive utilization of by-products. His career spans cutting-edge research, patentable innovation, academic leadership, and international collaboration. Over the years, he has become known not only for his deep expertise in processing edible oils but also for his systematic studies of plant-based proteins, polysaccharides, polyphenols, and biofuels. His work has consistently aligned with global sustainability goals by turning agricultural waste and by-products into valuable resources. This fusion of innovation and ecological responsibility has distinguished Professor Wang as a leader in food science and bioenergy.

Contributions and Research Focus

Professor Wang’s research is a vivid tapestry of innovation and applied science. At the heart of his work lies a deep exploration into low-temperature ethanol steam deodorization, decolorization using mesoporous solids, bifunctional catalysis for biodiesel, and detection technologies for gutter oil. He has made significant strides in unlocking the potential of agricultural by-products such as rapeseed, peanut, cottonseed, tea seed, and Pistacia chinensis.

His studies on rapeseed meal detoxification and value addition are particularly groundbreaking. Through the removal of anti-nutritional factors like glucosinolate, sinapine, and phytic acid, and the harnessing of bioactive compounds such as rapeseed protein, polyphenols, and polysaccharides, he has paved the way for the development of probiotic animal feed and nutraceuticals. Similarly, his pioneering work in peanut protein and beverage development, cottonseed detoxification, and tea seed meal applications has advanced the frontier of sustainable food systems.

Professor Wang also stands at the forefront of green energy research, where he has developed scalable solutions for converting waste oils and plant residues into biodiesel and liquid fuels, contributing to China’s growing bioenergy sector.

Accolades and Recognition

Professor Wang’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has authored more than 100 academic papers in renowned journals and has been a corresponding or first author on most of them, reflecting his leadership in research. He has published two influential monographs and has been granted 16 invention patents as the first inventor, showcasing his commitment to translating academic theory into industrial innovation.

His work has been supported by prestigious funding bodies, including the Ministry of Education in Japan, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and the National Key R&D Program of China. He has also been entrusted with major provincial science and technology research projects and received support from the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation and the Ministry of Education’s starting fund for returned overseas scholars.

Impact and Influence

Professor Wang’s research has not only transformed the field of oils and fats processing but has also made a significant impact on rural economies, environmental sustainability, and global food security. His commitment to the comprehensive utilization of agricultural by-products has fostered innovation-driven development in China’s agro-industrial sectors. Many of his research outcomes have gone beyond the lab, moving into pilot-scale and industrial-level applications, particularly in biodiesel production from waste oils and plant-based functional products. These implementations are improving the efficiency of the food processing industry and contributing to a more sustainable bioeconomy.

Furthermore, Professor Wang has mentored numerous graduate and doctoral students, inspiring the next generation of scientists to pursue applied, responsible, and interdisciplinary research.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As a respected thought leader in food science and sustainable technology, Professor Chengming Wang continues to redefine possibilities in the biotransformation of agricultural waste into high-value products. His career reflects a remarkable blend of academic excellence, patent-worthy innovation, and real-world impact. Looking forward, he aims to deepen international collaborations, expand applications of bio-functional compounds, and contribute further to the development of eco-friendly, zero-waste food processing technologies.

His work serves as a model for future scientists seeking to balance scientific rigor, environmental responsibility, and economic relevance—a legacy of innovation that will inspire research and policy for decades to come.

Mechanisms of deodorizing rapeseed oil with ethanol steam at a low temperature: A focus on free fatty acids, tocopherols, and phytosterols

Authors: Dong, Yiyang; Liu, Fangrong; Li, Wenlin; Wang, Chengming
Journal: Food Chemistry
Year: 2025

 Bleaching of Idesia polycarpa Maxim. Oil Using a Metal-Organic Framework-Based Adsorbent: Kinetics and Adsorption Isotherms

Authors: Dong, Yiyang; Wang, Chengming; Liu, Fangrong; Niu, Aifeng
Journal: Foods
Year: 2025