Muhammad Zafar Iqbal profile

Describe it (summary)

Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at United Arab Emirates University, with 15+ years of experience developing functional materials for energy storage, water treatment, and sustainable packaging. My research engineers graphene and MXenes into polymer nanocomposites and electrospun membranes, with recent work on MXene-based supercapacitors (up to 1003 F/g), bio-based poly(ethylene furanoate) (PEF) membranes for oil-water separation and food packaging, and catalytic upgrading of waste biomass into fuels. Author of 57 peer-reviewed publications (2,394 citations) and 1 U.S. patent, with an established record of industry-partnered research (NanoCarbonX, Strata Manufacturing, Futerro). Open to sponsored research collaborations, technical consulting, and advisory roles, particularly with companies working in 2D materials, sustainable/bio-based polymers, membrane technology, or energy storage.

Work Experience (3)

Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering

United Arab Emirates University

August 2016 - Present

Al Ain

Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering

United Arab Emirates University

August 2016 - Present

Al Ain

Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering

United Arab Emirates University

August 2016 - Present

Al Ain

Lead an independent research group on functional materials for energy storage, water treatment, and sustainable packaging — graphene/MXene nanocomposites, electrospun membranes, and bio-based polymers (PEF, PLA, PHB). Secured AED 5.3M+ in competitive funding, hold 1 U.S. patent, and maintain industry partnerships (NanoCarbonX, Strata Manufacturing, Futerro). Open to industry collaboration and technical consulting.

Academic Studies (1)

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Colorado School of Mines, USA

May 2012 - May 2016

Chemical Engineering

Doctoral research on graphene/polymer nanocomposites under Prof. Matthew W. Liberatore and Prof. Andrew M. Herring, focused on dispersing graphene in polyethylene through polymer blending and surface functionalization to improve electrical conductivity and processability. Developed core expertise in nanomaterial synthesis, polymer rheology, and structure-property characterization that underpins my current work on 2D materials and functional nanocomposites.